The smallest cybertronian

The grind never ends

chapter 9 home base

The energon mine had been a bountiful haven for Blackout and his ever-growing army of clones and drones, but it was time to expand. With Tarantulas and Airachnid nearby, the risk of discovery was too great. Blackout needed a more secure location for his base of operations.

Blackout: System, we need to start scouting for a new base. The energon mine has served us well, but it's too risky to stay here indefinitely.

SYSTEM: Understood. Deploying clones and drones to scout for potential base locations.

Blackout directed several of his enhanced drones to venture out of the mine. Their advanced sensors and stealth capabilities would allow them to explore without being detected. Meanwhile, he focused on another important task: repurposing the old, broken drilling equipment he had discovered deep within the mine.

The drilling equipment was rusted and neglected, but Blackout saw potential in it. With his Consume and Replicate ability, he began breaking down the machinery, absorbing its materials and learning its structure. The more he absorbed, the clearer his plan became.

Blackout: This equipment can be transformed into something far more useful. I'll need to create specialized drones capable of drilling and tunnelling, allowing us to expand our operations underground and remain hidden.

As Blackout worked on the drilling equipment, his scouting drones transmitted data back to him. They had found several potential locations for a new base, each with its own advantages and challenges.

Drone 1: Location A is a network of abandoned tunnels deep beneath the city. It's well-hidden and provides ample space for expansion, but it may require significant resources to secure and reinforce.

Drone 2: Location B is an old industrial complex on the outskirts of the city. It's heavily damaged but has existing infrastructure that could be repurposed. The risk of detection is higher, but it offers easy access to supplies.

Drone 3: Location C is a secluded valley far from the city. It's isolated and difficult to access, making it extremely secure. However, the lack of nearby resources could pose a challenge.

Blackout weighed the options carefully. Each location had its merits, but he needed to choose the one that best suited his immediate needs and long-term plans.

Blackout: System, analyse the feasibility of each location. We need a base that offers security and room for growth.

SYSTEM: Analysing Location A provides the best balance of security and potential for expansion. The abandoned tunnels offer natural concealment and can be easily reinforced with the right resources.

Blackout: Location A it is. Deploy a team of clones and drones to begin securing the tunnels. We need to move quickly and discreetly.

While his drones and clones set out to secure the new base, Blackout continued to transform the drilling equipment. He created specialized drilling drones, each one equipped with powerful cutting tools and enhanced durability. These drones would be instrumental in expanding the tunnels and creating a network of hidden passages.

As the first team of drones entered the abandoned tunnels, they began mapping the area and identifying key points for reinforcement. The tunnels were dark and damp, but the drones' sensors easily cut through the gloom, revealing a labyrinth of potential.

Drone Leader: Tunnels are stable but will require reinforcement. Proceeding with initial fortifications.

Back in the mine, Blackout felt a surge of satisfaction as his plan came together. The drilling drones were functioning perfectly, and the scouting drones had found the ideal location for their new base. With each passing moment, his operation grew stronger and more sophisticated.