Transformers Prime: A New Beginning

Chapter 46: Flying Mind

Normal Perspective:

Twelve hours had passed since the Nemesis's crash-landing, and Bulkhead had told the others about his adventure on the ship, which surprised everyone, even Michael, who, in turn, told the Wrecker their story about Airachnid, who was shocked to find out the spider was now deceased. Michael also reassured the Wrecker that Wheeljack was still alive, and that he hadn't killed his counterpart, revealing that it was actually a clone, much to Bulkhead's relief.

While Michael was somewhat saddened that the Protoforms were once again wasted, he felt that it was better that they were gone, for having six versions of his counterpart wouldn't be a pleasant sight. A part of him still felt that they deserved to live on as their own people, but there was nothing he could do about it now.

When the humans arrived that day, Bulkhead had retold his Nemesis adventure to them.

"But when the Insecticons suddenly backed off," The Wrecker was saying. "I got inspired by my proximity to the power core, and did what I do best.' He finished, bashing his fists together.

"You trashed Megatron's ride like a rockstar in a hotel room!" Miko said in awe.

"We should hit the 'Cons right now while they're vulnerable." Arcee said, as she and the others walked up, seeing this as the best opportunity to strike.

"Megatron's Warship may be grounded," Ratchet reminded. "But let's not forget that we remain vastly outnumbered. Especially since he has added the Insecticon hive to his ranks."

"Then maybe it's time for me to call in an airstrike." Fowler said.

"Or for us to consider more extreme measures, Agent Fowler." Optimus said.

Michael gulped. He knew what Optimus was talking about.

He, Optimus, and Ratchet headed to the Vault, and entered, opening one of the doors, revealing a very specific device on the stand inside.

"The Spark Extractor?" Ratchet asked, immediately knowing where this was going. "Optimus, are you certain you want to travel down this path?"

He knew that any use of this particular weapon was a point of no return.

"While I am deeply reluctant to deploy a weapon of this caliber," Optimus admitted. "especially one made by Decepticon hands, this may be our only chance to end the war. Once and for all."

At the same time, the Decepticons were recovering from the events that afflicted them, as well as trying to discover how and what had caused their ship to go down.

"Dreadwing, damage report." Megatron said.

"We have suffered critical damage to all major systems, Lord Megatron." The seeker diagnosed. "It will be some time before we can get the ship airborne."

"Soundwave." Megatron said, turning to the TIC, who didn't need telling twice, or even once, and brought up the footage recorded from the power core room, revealing Bulkhead as the cause. "So it was an Autobot who crippled my vessel. They will move quickly to exploit any perceived weakness."

Just then, Skywarp and Thundercracker, the Decepticon's latest additions, spoke up.

"Surely, they aren't foolish enough to launch a direct assault." Thundercracker said reasonably.

"Isn't that dangerous?" Skywarp asked.

"You're dangerous." Cyclonus said snarkily, to which Skywarp just frowned.

"Anyway, considering they're greatly outnumbered." Barricade added. "Especially with the rank boost we gained recently, they wouldn't even stand a chance."