Skirmish At the Core 4: Brawl's Coloring Book

So the drone mainframe will soon be up for grabs, though that particular avenue had been somewhat abandoned as of late, since much effort had been rerouted into freeing Vector Sigma of Galvatron's control. There were still a lot of questions left unanswered, but at least the transmitters at Darkmount had been destroyed, and the warlord's taint purged. That opened things up a bit for efforts to be refocused on Shockwave's sentinel drone network.

Now, Blurr is skulking around the catacombs leading to the entry, hoping to set up cloaked drone surveillance in the area so that if the Decepticons ever ventured near, Autobot Intelligence would know where they were, and what they were doing. And move to interceptor if need be. If everything went smoothly, the Decepticons wouldn't be around to try to stop him, but since that probably won't be the case, he's brought reinforcements. Scanning the area, it seems the coast is clear so far. Drawing a strange device that kind of looks like a gun from subspace, he fires it at a wall, and a small drone flies out before embedding itself among the circuitry it happened to land in, expanding several optical lenses out of its interior.

<> he warns the rest of his team, who conist of Grimlock and Getaway. Don't ask him why he keeps bringing Grimlock down here. Just...don't ask.

Combat: Cybertronian Hovercar  sets his defense level to Protected.

The hovercar quickly unfolds upward and outward to reveal the fastest terrestrial Cybertronian in the galaxy, Blurr!

Grimlock has...just barely enough room to get through these catacombs- he holds his sword out, using the red glow of his energo blade as an impromptu torch. He's not the most suited for such close quarters...but on the other hand, he's more than capable of holding off any number of Decepticons all by himself in a narrow enough pass.

"Good." The dinobot rumbles. "Me Grimlock getting tired of waiting! Fight be fun!"

Perhaps the most relaxed out of the team is Getaway. He's striding along as if there's nothing to worry about. He doesn't even have any of his weapons out. He's just nice and relaxed. "We got this." is said with all the nonchalance in the world, since he's definitely not worried about anything happening that's going to happen. He's never worried about Cons. Ever.

"What do you mean 'we got this'? Do you understand what could happen if we were to get caught down here? Ambushed? Swarmed upon? Trapped like rats, even!" And that would be Rev. He's freaking out, as per the usual, as he sits on Getaway's shoulder and occasionally flails an arm around to help accentuate the points that he's making each and every other word. "If my calculations are correct..."

"They never are." Getaway quips.



Rev narrows his tiny eyes and frowns. Huff. "IF my calculations are correct, and they usually are, there's an eighty-seven percent chance of violence while we're down here. And you know how I get when things get violent!"

"Everybody knows, Rev. Everybody knows." Getaway rolls his optics.

"What is /that/ supposed to mean?!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> does not want to be here and looks that way, irately chewing on what appears to be a muffler, with oil dripping from his jaw. Krunk as likely urged him along, though the Nebulan is quiet for now. They're following Frenzy, and Snapdragon cannot fathom /why/.

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl is following along, but stopping every so often. He is very busy, you see, because he brought along his Galvatron Day Coloring Book and he is trying very, very hard to color Galvatron right. Harrow said he was a traitor because he couldn't draw Lord Galvatron right. :(

<p class="MsoNormal">Frenzy is sort of, kind of in charge of a mission. If you call tearing down the walls of this icy, forsaken trench a mission. Frenzy doesn't mind really, as he flies along, fists clanging together once in a while to echo off the jagged metal walls. "Not that we expect any Autobums here you twos, but keep a look out okay?" He settles down to the ground on a somewhat level footing before he holds up a hand towards Brawl. "Alright, this looks like a good spot to bring the house down don'tcha think?" No intentions at all of being stealthy at this point.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Frenzy sets his defense level to Fearless.

<p class="MsoNormal">Blurr grumbles at Rev's whining as he points and fires another drone at a different corner further down the tunnel. "Ugh, does that Nebulan ever quit leaking lubricants?" he complains. He doesn't hear Frenzy's obvious annoucement about 'bringing the house down' because Rev is whining so much.

<p class="MsoNormal">KA-CHUNK!

<p class="MsoNormal">Another probe installs itself into the upper part of a wall. "If you can't shut him up, Getaway, I'm sure Grimlock will be happy to do you a favor." he mutters.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Now that was interesting..."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> First Aid says, "What was?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Didn't you hear something"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Only the voice in my head."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Bleh. Maybe my t-cog isn't the only thing that needs checked."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "Interestin'?! /Interestin'?!/ Nah, that's RUN DMC!!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Run DMC?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "What's a 'Run Dee Em Cee'?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Jetfire says, "Run DMC?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Spindrift says, "Blaster!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Grimlock gives a rumbly laugh. "Me Grimlock think you Blurr last person to talk about talking too much." he holds his sword up a little higher, and shoulders past Blurr to start his way down the corridor, into a larger chamber...which, coincidentally, happens to be very, very close to where Frenzy's setting up shop!

<p class="MsoNormal">"Shhhhh." Grimlock raises a finger to his facemask for silence. "Me Grimlock think me hear somethings."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Spindrift says, ".... And aren't you -suppose- to have a voice in your head, Hardhead?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Apocryphacius says, "Detroit Medical Center?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "Oh no no no. Come on. Please tell me y'all been listenin' to the tapes I be leavin' all over the place! They there for a reason! Come on, now!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "I just got here!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Yes."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "... I have to see if that music sampler Jazz gave me has this 'run dmc' on it."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Jetfire says, "Tapes? Can't say I have, Blaster. However, it is good to see you again."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Tapes?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Jazz says, "Blaster m'man!.. You'll have to excuse Shiftlock, she ain't been with us long. I only got her one demo of badass battle vibes s'far."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Badass Battle Vibes?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "I love it."

<p class="MsoNormal">Getaway heard it. But that might be because he's paying more attention to the fact that he's the last in this team and he's wanting to make sure that everything goes according to plan. Not that they actually have a plan. "Rev. Relax." Apparently, that shuts Rev up for the moment. Because now he's turning around to peer off Getaway's shoulder and see if there's anything headed in their direction. Getaway cuts his optics back and forth between Grimlock and Blurr. "Grims is right. I heard something." Back to Blurr. "You done? We should probably get while the getting is good." Y'know. Escape.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "JAZZ! The Baddest Mechman in the Land! Second to myself, of course. Now, what I'm hearin' is that we need more mixtapes. Is that what I'm hearin'?"

<p class="MsoNormal">

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Mixtape?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "I never did get to hear much music."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "So this is great."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Grimlock says, "Mixtape? That like when tape-bot am dog with wings or something?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Jazz says, "I hope that's what yer hearing bro, because that's what I'm saying."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "Because if that's what I'm hearin', I'm more than happy to make that happen. I got tracks for days. I got Rock! I got Hip Hop! I got the G-Funk-ERRRAAAAAA!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Remedy says, "I am so lost..."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Torque can be heard making a faint squeal of excitement, "Blaster! It's great to hear from you again! Man, I've been missin' your beats.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid says, "Whoa."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Jetfire says, "What /are/ they talking about?"

<p class="MsoNormal">"Just hurry it up, I don't want to be out here all day," Snapdragon growls, reaching up to pry some gnarled metal from his teeth. He pauses and cranes his neck to one side upon hearing the installing drones.

<p class="MsoNormal">"Seems like we're not alone," Krunk says. "Shocking. Bring this place down before they can escape."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Jazz says, "Don't forget the ragnarock'n'roll!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Niiice."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "Nah, that's what happens when you put a cassticon in the blender."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "Don't you worry, I got beats comin' in a hurry! It's! About! To Go! DOOOOOOWWWWWWWWN!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Duros has requested something called, Big Band? Whatever that means..."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Oh that's nice."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "Uh. Big Band, huh? I /think/ I can dig in the crates. I can swing a li'l Rat Pack! A li'l Sammy Davis! A li'l Frankie!!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "I kind of like this human singer... Ella Fitzgerald."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Duros said and I quote, "That would be great, Thank you Blaster." I say, it better not be loud and or noisy..."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "... Am I ever loud or noisy?!?!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Hnnnnn."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "Uh, isn't that like, your job?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster turns up the music.

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl looks up from his coloring book.

<p class="MsoNormal">"HEY YOU GUYS, I THOUGHT I HEARD SOMETHING, DID YOU? DOES THAT MEAN THAT WE GET TO SMASH SOME HEADS? BECAUSE I HAVEN'T DONE THAT IN A WHOLE DAY OTHER THAN MY OWN HEAD BECAUSE ONSLAUGHT TOLD ME TO KNOCK MYSELF OUT SO I DID. BOY I SURE RECHARGED HARD THAT NIGHT, HUH?!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl. He doesn't do quiet.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr grumbles. "Blaster, we're kind of trying to focus here, mind turning  it down a bit?"

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Brawl sets his defense level to Aggressive.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "Focus? On what? Let me hook you up with a bangin' soundtrack!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "I know!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "THey need concentration music."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "On bugging the mainframe perimeter. I think the Cons might be onto us..."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "Hmmmmm. I got just the thing! Hol' up!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "What? No! Blaster, we don't need any music..."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "... Man I haven't fought anything today."

<p class="MsoNormal">Frenzy stops for a minute to let his audio processors adjust, listening down the trench as Snapdragon identifies others in the vicinity. "Hmm, you're right, and when you're right, you're right Snappy!" At this point though, the Cons are in close enough vicinity to feel Grimlock stomping along as much as hear him. "Okay Brawl, let's fire a warning shot up their nose, whoever theys are!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster tape shuffling sounds galore. "No, no, no, no, no..."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr groans audibly.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "How about Spybreak?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "THat's on this one."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "Now, Shifty. You can't fight everyday. That's why on your off-days you have to kidnap enough Decepticons and lock them away somewhere so you have to something to play with between battles."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "How about encrypting our frequency, instead? In case Soundwave or someone is around."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "GOT IT!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Ohhhh."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Repugnus, Paradigm says people like you and Blades are a bad influence on me. Is this true?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Yes."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "Yes, absolutely."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "But Blades is such a cool guy."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "You should run screaming every time you see me."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Why?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "I think you look awesome."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid chokes.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "Well, see, Shifty, you aren't over the deep end just yet, not like me and Blades. But you hang out with us too long and you will be!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Is that bad?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid says, "Shiftlock Shiftlock Shiftlock - there are plenty of other cooler mechs in this faction."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "That is shockingly well put Repugnus."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Like who?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "Well, depends on how much you like murder."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid says, "Well..."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "Heh, he's right."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "I want to destroy the Decepticons so hard that history forgets they exist."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Torque says, "I wonder if you'd like Pipes since you like Tailgate so much, hmm."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "How's that?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid says, "Not Blurr, for one!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "Then d'ya wanna play some Dance Dance Revolution with me!?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid says, "Grimlock is pretty cool."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "-Thanks-, Air Raid."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid says, "Sure thing buddy!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "What the slag do you have against me anyway?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster makes some more tap shuffling sounds then: o/~ CAUSE WHAT YOU SEE, YOU MIGHT NOT GET! AND WE CAN BET, SO DON'T YOU GET SOUPED YET! SCHEMIN' ON A THING THAT'S A MIRAGE! I'M TRYIN' TO TELL YOU KNOW, IT'S SABOTAGE! o/~ "Do ya' thing, Blurr!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid says, "Let me fetch the list."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "Air Raid. Heh! More like, Rare Aid. HAAAA"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid says, "..."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "Ha."

<p class="MsoNormal">MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> whistles in from the East, swooping low to the ground and alighting effortlessly to join the gathered Decepticons. The jet plane shifts in the blink of an optic, stomping upright as a towering robot. "This area's been a hotbed of activity as of late. I imagine this operation hasn't gone unnoticed. Be prepared for an incursion."

<p class="MsoNormal">Blitzwing transforms into his robot mode.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid says, "How the frag are you a commanding officer again?!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Repugnus murders in the name of Freedom. And someone has to be in charge of things, y'all like to pretend don't exist."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "Ooh, I love that song, actually. It's practically my theme song, except it doesn't have enough profanities and descriptions of unspeakable acts."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid says, "Ugh."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "I'm confused."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "How?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Aren't well all murdering in the name of freedom? We're just murdering Decepticons? Isn't that kind of what war is?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "War! Huh! Good Gawd! What is it good for?! Absolutely nothing! SAY IT AGAIN NOW!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Stick around and you'll learn about Autobot Hypocrisy soon enough. Although with that question, you have kinda hit the nail on the head, Shiftlock. What kind of war is this..."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades says, "Decepticons can generally fight back."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades says, "Murder's a bit more one-sided."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Ohhh."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "Well, here's the thing. Some Autobots regret having to murder so many Decepticons. They'd really rather have an end to the war. But then you have the Autobots like *me,* who think that all the killing is wonderful, so long as it's happening to someone else."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "/Ohhhhh/."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Grimlock says, "You Repugnus weird."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Grimlock says, "Now stop talking 'cuz me Grimlock gonna start eating bad guys."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "And I'm missing it?!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades says, "If there's a Decepticon file clerk, never raised a blaster in his life, and I bust into his office and slit his neck, /that/ is murder. ...hypothetically speaking."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "Well, how could I ever want to interrupt that?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "I was not raised by a file clerk, b to the t-dubbs! Jus' sayin'!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock snickers.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Jazz snickers

<p class="MsoNormal">"Yeah, whatever." Blurr shrugs, waving a dismissive servo in Grimlock's direction. "At least I don't whine all the time." He glances incredulously over at Getaway when he asks if they're done. "Done? We've been here for all of two breems, Getaway. I still have to get the rest of these installed, then activate the cloak--"

<p class="MsoNormal">He stops, having heard Brawl's voice echoing through the catacombs. His weapons suddenly appear and he immediately assumes a defensive stance, his optics alert. "Well, you were right about hearing something..." he glances at his teammates. "Cover me while I finish this, then we'll send their tailpipes crying back to Darkmount." He grins.

<p class="MsoNormal">

<p class="MsoNormal">"ThreetwooneGO!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Grimlock overhears Brawl's bellowing (and who didn't?)- and he turns towards the other two 'bots. "Told you." he grunts- and then he wastes little time stomping forwards, transforming into his dinosaur mode as he does so! Whatever Blurr's got in mind, it's debatable whether or not Grimlock was listening.

<p class="MsoNormal">"RAAARGH!" Grimlock barrels forwards, his sides scraping against the narrow walls as he bears down on the Decepticons- for a long, terrible moment, Grimlock rears up above Brawl...and then one massive dino-foot comes a-crashing down, attempting to grind the Combaticon into the floor!

<p class="MsoNormal">With a grunt and a growl, Grimlock changes into a robot T-rex! Watch out.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Maybe I should talk in person about this."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "Listen uh... I ain't sure who you are but you're on this frequency so you gotta' be down with us. Look. It's like this. War sucks. I know it. Everybody knows it. But as long as you're 2 Legit 2 Quit, the 'Cons can't touch this. And if they try? You just gotta' break it down on 'em. Now. GET BUSY!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Robot T-Rex! <Grimlock> strikes Brawl with his STOMP'D (Kick) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Jazz says, "The Voice of the Autobots has spoken! Hehehe"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Jazz says, "Ya still got, m'man, ya still got it."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid says, "Also, another cool Autobro is BLASTER, Shiftlock. Write it down."

<p class="MsoNormal">"Rev? You ready?" Getaway says this as he whips out his Plasma Shotgun and gives it a bit of a twirl in his palm. Rev, for the moment, is looking like this is the worst idea in the world. "Getaway. I must advise you that this is the worst idea in the world." See? "And if you continue with this then I'm going to have to hand in my resignati--"

<p class="MsoNormal">"I'm right behind you, Grims!" Getaway takes off after Grimlock, ready to bring up his rear (NOT LIKE THAT!) with the shotgun of plasmatic proportions. Rev, meanwhile, is hanging onto Getaway for dear life.

<p class="MsoNormal">"HEAVENS TO NEBULON!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "I've been listening to him, why should I write that down?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Apocryphacius says, "Because Air Raid likes people to take dictation for him, because he can't write."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades says, "Because Air Raid likes people to take dictation for him, because he can't write."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid says, "I CAN WRITE."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid says, "Right Torque!?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades says, "Why else would you communicate in pictograms?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid says, "..."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "He's an artist?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "He's an... AUTIST! *giggle*"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid says, "They're not pictograms, they're- Rrrghh!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid doorslam!

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Torque chuckles. "Hey now, he can write. Though we need to work on some of your spelling sometime."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr laughs.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Okay, I've almost got this figured out."

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Getaway strikes Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> with his Plasma-Shell Shotgun attack! [Pulled -1]

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "I'm supposed to act like First Aid when I'm not fighting but like a Wrecker when I am."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "When you do, can you explain it to me?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades says, "That's about it, Shiftlock."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "BEing self-sacrificial is 'suicidal' but being self-preserving is 'smart'."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "That seems ... inconsistent."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Context seems to matter."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Torque says, "I think you need to do a little self searching and figure yourself out instead of trying to be like someone else, Shiftlock."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades says, "Yeah, you don't want to die over an elevatoir door jamming, that's a bad way to go."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades says, "Saw this one 'con get /sklitched/ clean in half, only it wasn't so clean..."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "Which half did you get? If it's the upper half you can still play with it."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades says, "You just have to get more creative if you're stuck with the legs!"

<p class="MsoNormal">"You MORON, there goes our COVER!" Snapdragon snarls at Brawl, who gets his comeuppance nanos later via Grimlock's foot. "Grah!" The 'con rex stumbles aside, swinging his tail around to balance before pointing. "They've brought the tanks, /grand/. Attack!" Getaway reaches him first, and catches his side with plasma shells! "RRAAGH! You'll regret that /dearly/, Getaway!" The dinosaur turns to sling his full weight into the carbot, jaws parted in a furious roar.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> sets his defense level to Fearless.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> strikes Getaway with his Cretaceous Smackdown (Kick) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Well, Torque, if I don't meet the approval of the higher-ups, it won't matter what I think."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "I *know* what I believe."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "I'm trying to see what everyone else does."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Grimlock says, "Me Grimlock really high up!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, ".. Rank or elevation"

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl is minding is his own business, and for once he had actually managed to STAY IN THE LINES coloring a picture of Galvatron shooting Starscream into a pile of ashes. He had just about put the finishing touches on the color of the galvcannon shot (pew pew) when DINOSAUR FOOT FROM OUT OF NOWHERE.

<p class="MsoNormal">He falls over, pinned to the ground. The coloring book falls to the ground.

<p class="MsoNormal">There's a big smudge of pink across Galvatron's face.

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl's limbs begin to tremble. He doesn't seem to notice the dents in his front, back and sides from Grimlock's foot, as he balls his hang into a fist, his optics brightening in pure, boiling rage, as he tries to grab hold of Grimlock's leg and shove him completely off his body.

<p class="MsoNormal">"LORD. GALVATRON'S. FACE. IS. NOT. PIIIIIIIINNNNKK!!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Brawl strikes Robot T-Rex! <Grimlock> with his Tackle attack!

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades says, "Probably both."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Air Raid is still muttering to himself, "I can spell..."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "We are an eclectic group, who loves to collect other eclectics. I think you are worried for not Shiftlock. Hell, Command is probably more scared of feeling like they are 'forcing' you to help us, then they are of you not fitting in. Once they have a good cry over the loss of another Mech's 'innocence' they will had you a badge and sign you up."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr can be heard laughing. "Brawl is such a glitchead."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "Hardhead's right of course. Bystanders are just target practice for the cons, but you were smart enough to upgrade."

<p class="MsoNormal">Frenzy watches Blitzwing swoop in, glad for the reinforcements and a chance to not fight fair against the Autobums. "Hey Blitz! Glad you could make it to the party!" Frenzy ducks though now, as several tonnes of dinosaur fly through the air towards Brawl. "Jeez! Well, good goin Dimlock! You messed up his colouring book, now you really made him mad!" And seeing how Grimmy's attention is turned towards polishing Brawl's face with his foot, Frenzy takes the opportunity give the Dinobot a swift piledriver in the tail end.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Frenzy strikes Robot T-Rex! <Grimlock> with his Piledriver Assault attack!

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Words not often heard."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> First Aid says, "I don't recall having such a tough time when I was recruited into the Autobots. Maybe things just used to be more lax."

<p class="MsoNormal">Blitzwing doesn't have to wait long for things to get very interesting, that's for sure. Having just arrived, the triplechanger isn't quite as prepared as he ought to be, and therefore he is unable to prevent Brawl from becoming a brand new dino-shoe. To battle back the Autobot charge, Blitzwing smoothly unshoulders his gyro-rifle and ignites his electro-sabre simultaneously, rocketing up and into the fray upon flaming engine-feet. The triplechanger picks up speed and spins, meaning to slice across Grimlock's nose with a polished wing blade-heel.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Things were different under /him/."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "Well, you've got a useful skill that you can demonstrate without piling bodies on top of each other, Mr. Aid."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades says, "...yeah, to be honest, did they even do a background check on me?"

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blitzwing misses Robot T-Rex! <Grimlock> with his  (Kick) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Well, I'm not going away. I'm here to serve."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "And I'm not innocent."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades says, "Pretty sure Hot Spot was just like, 'Good deal, let's go rush into ten burning buildings.'"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster's radio keeps the jams going: o/~ Ain't no stoppin' us nooooowwww! We're on the move! o/~ "Just do what you think is right, Shifty! You do that and you'll be an Autobot in no time! And remember to be yourself! And if you can't do that? Dance."

<p class="MsoNormal">Robot T-Rex! <Grimlock> makes a surprised-sounding "Grrh?" as Brawl manages to shove even his massive form away- and then Grimlock staggers again as Frenzy starts beating on him in turn! It barely scuffs his armor, but causes the dinobot to notice, nonetheless! Grimlock has just barely enough time to lean his head back, avoiding Blitzwing's kick!

<p class="MsoNormal">And then, it's just a matter of instinct. Grimlock rears back like a coiled snake, and then lunges forward at the triplechanger, aiming to close massive jaws down around some part of the 'con! Meanwhile, at the other end, Grimlock's tail sweeps a wide arc for balance- and if there just happens to be a tape in the way, well...

<p class="MsoNormal">And as for Brawl? Well, if the Combaticon's not careful, he might get stepped on by Grimlock's OTHER foot! This may or may not be on purpose. Though that coloring book's likely not going to last. Collateral damage.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Robot T-Rex! <Grimlock> strikes Blitzwing with his Dino Rampage Area attack! [Pulled -3]

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Robot T-Rex! <Grimlock> strikes Frenzy with his Dino Rampage Area attack! [Pulled -3]

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Robot T-Rex! <Grimlock> strikes Brawl with his Dino Rampage Area attack! [Pulled -3]

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Optimus: Mirage, that was reckless and stupid. I'm surprised I didn't think of it! Good job. (Too bad you didn't die).  Mirage: Hahah yeah! ....  Prime: (Not sure if serious)  Mirage: oookaaay?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades says, "Have you been watching Decepticon propaganda?"

<p class="MsoNormal">"I already do!" Getaway manages to say this in the midst of his getting kicked right in the chest. He sails backwards and smashes into some of the rock, grunting from the pain of the dino-foot and the wall collision.

<p class="MsoNormal">"See? I told you so!" Rev is shaking off the pain of hitting the wall himself.

<p class="MsoNormal">"Not now, Rev." Getaway is trying to keep his cool, but it's somewhat difficult.

<p class="MsoNormal">"Then when?"

<p class="MsoNormal">"After I kill Snapdragon."

<p class="MsoNormal">"I don't think you should be /killing/ anyone. Must I remind you that we are the Good Guys? In Neb's name, Getaway, don't you even think abou--"

<p class="MsoNormal">Getaway's leg slides open and out pops a hold-out pistol that he keeps stashed inside there. Getaway catches it in mid-air and strafes, taking potshots at Snapdragon, while trying to put some space between them.

<p class="MsoNormal">"YEAH GET THAT SON OF A KILLSWITCH!" Rev is crazy, man.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Getaway strikes Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> with his Shots. (Pistol) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> First Aid says, "Ugh... 'Decepticonz'"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "Wack."

<p class="MsoNormal">Blurr continues installing the drones along the walls as he runs up and down the tunnel, firing them out of the gun-like device in his hand. He's surprised the Decepticons haven't tried to stop him, yet. Oh wait. He looks at the opposition. Brawl and Frenzy...and...some dragon-looking dude? Tch, they probably have no idea what he's even doing. Especially not Brawl. Now, all that's left is the cloaking field. But they're gonna need to take care of the Decepticons first. Wouldn't want them figuring out what was going down. They hadn't noticed the drones yet, but surely even Brawl would see the energy readings on his scanners when the field activated.

<p class="MsoNormal">Besides...it's going to be fun taunting Brawl. Heheheh. Zipping behind the Combaticon, he attempts to deliver a low-powered shot to his backside just to annoy him. "Hey Brawl." he grins. "Betcha couldn't hit me." he taunts.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "I will confess to watching Decepticon propaganda. When I need to laugh."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> First Aid says, "I find it so offensive."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Really?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "It's all I ever got to hear."

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blurr strikes Brawl with his Betcha can't hit me! attack!

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> First Aid says, "It's like an hour of vicious, really thoughtless and mean spirited taunting."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "It's wack with a capital Wack. Stick with me an' Jazz, Shifty. We've got all, you need, to get by."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades says, "Anyone stands out as particularly bad on it, First Aid?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "Ah, come on, nobody believes that show's real except for really, really, really dumb people."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> First Aid says, "Everyone gets portrayed in such a nasty way."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> First Aid says, "I know, Repugnus, but it's the thought that counts."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "Perhaps hidden in that is a kernel of truth...we aren't all saints all the time..."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades coughs, "I'm asking which Decepticon actor you want me to skewer the next time I see 'im."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> First Aid says, "Oh, I don't even know who portrays who."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> First Aid says, "Their animation and voice acting keeps changing randomly."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "I think sometimes it's CGI? Or Korean animation?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blades says, "I'll take that as 'stab them all, Blades.'"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "Actually, it doesn't even really matter who believe it an' who don't. We know what we are. We know who we are. We know what we do is right. Who cares what anybody else thinks? As long as we've got the groove, we'll be ready to move."

<p class="MsoNormal">Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> is potshotted! In one optic, between his claws, somewhere on his tail. "Ow, ow! UGH!" He begins towards Getaway again, but his attention is drawn to, of course, Grimlock's destructive tirade, which is quite a fearsome sight within the cramped catacomb tunnels.

<p class="MsoNormal">"We'll deal with you shortly, Rev," Krunk hisses.

<p class="MsoNormal">Wordlessly, Snapdragon trudges forth, slowly at first, then picking up some momentum with a full sprint. At the last second he springs into the air and lunges straight for Grimlock's neck, jaws wide. "RRRRAAAAHHH!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> strikes Robot T-Rex! <Grimlock> with his CHOMP attack!

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Repugnus says, "I think there was one with the Wreckers in it that was pretty accurate, though."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> First Aid says, "The Home Wreckers?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Hardhead says, "That one was my favorite...."

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Frenzy misses Blurr with his Drum Screech Area attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Frenzy (Frenzy) used "Drum Screech": A Level 4 AREA-RANGED attack.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Frenzy strikes Getaway with his Drum Screech Area attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: That attack has temporarily limited Getaway's Accuracy! (Blinded)

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Frenzy strikes Robot T-Rex! <Grimlock> with his Drum Screech Area attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: That attack has temporarily limited Robot T-Rex! <Grimlock>'s Accuracy! (Blinded)

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl is stepped on again, and just as he tries to get up to save his precious coloring book --

<p class="MsoNormal">Blurr STEPS ON IT.

<p class="MsoNormal">Galvatron is now pink faced, dirty, and torn. Ruined forever, just like all of Brawl's efforts to color in the lines.

<p class="MsoNormal">"THAT'S IT!" he growls, transforming into tank mode.

<p class="MsoNormal">"EVERYBODY DIES!"

<p class="MsoNormal">He probably means it.

<p class="MsoNormal">The back of Brawl's tank mode opens up into a pair of massive sonic generators, which warm up with a slow, deafening rumble of ultrasonic power, the tunnel beginning to shake as rivulets of dirt trickle down from above. Panels are shaking and starting to come lose, along with fastners, before the air around the cannons warps visibly, rippling the air visibly as it howls down the tunnel towards everything in its path.

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl transforms into his Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> mode.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> strikes Robot T-Rex! <Grimlock> with his Dual Sonic Cannon Area attack! [Pulled -2]

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> misses Blurr with his Dual Sonic Cannon Area attack! [Pulled -2]

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> (Brawl) used "Dual Sonic Cannon": A Level 2 AREA-RANGED attack.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> strikes Getaway with his Dual Sonic Cannon Area attack! [Pulled -2]

<p class="MsoNormal">Blitzwing coughs through energon spittle, "GRAAAAH!," as the saurian takes a sizeable chomp out of his wing. He howls in pain again as Grimlock effortlessly casts him aside and into a solid cliff face with a bang! An explosion of rock, debris, dust, and sound erupt from the impact zone, and Blitzwing is not heard from again after a long moment. Too long.

<p class="MsoNormal">*FWOOSH!*

<p class="MsoNormal">A giant jet of anachronistic Russian design screams out from the rock surface, a purple-beige comet streaking over the battlefield, instruments still aflutter and overwhelmed with recalibration efforts.

<p class="MsoNormal">Blitzwing takes to the skies as a MiG-25PD Foxbat-E jet.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> takes extra time to steady himself. [Pass]

<p class="MsoNormal">Robot T-Rex! <Grimlock> roars!

<p class="MsoNormal">Though the din of Frenzy's drum screech and Brawl's sonic cannons drawn out the sound of his anger! Grimlock shakes his head to the side- only to get plowed into by Snapdragon's biting teeth! Great rents are torn in the dinbot's armor- but by no means is he going down so easily!

<p class="MsoNormal">Grimlock shakes Snapdragon off of him- and then he transforms up into his robot mode, bringing that glowing red sword of his out- and he attempts to stab it deep into the Headmaster's frame, making sure to *twist!* it just so for added pain!

<p class="MsoNormal">"YOU BLURR DO THING YET?!" Grimlock bellows, just barely audible over the Decepticons' sonic assault!

<p class="MsoNormal">There's a flurry of moving parts, and Grimlock changes to his robot mode!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Grimlock strikes Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> with his Energo Sword attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Both Getaway and Rev were unprepared for the shenanigans that came forth from the combined efforts of the Decepticons. Getaway's sensors go bonkers at the Drum Screech and he drops to his knees, Rev doing the same next to him and holding his ears. This doesn't last long, though, as SONIC BLASTINGS come forth at them! They get knocked end over end of each other, Getaway coming to a halt a short bit away... and Rev on top of him.

<p class="MsoNormal">Groaning, Getaway lifts his head and peers at Rev. "Ready to ride?" "Yes, please."

<p class="MsoNormal">GO GO POWERMASTER!

<p class="MsoNormal">One transformation sequence later, the Mazda RX-7 (w/ Rev) is kicking up dust and racing through the tunnel towards... a tank? Somewhere in the inside Rev goes: "Not the tank, not the tank, not the tank..."

<p class="MsoNormal">Dropping low and collapsing in onto himself, the scott free Autobot combines the sum of all its parts into that tricked out Mazda RX-7. Catch it if you can!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Mazda RX-7 <Getaway> strikes Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> with his Tactical Collision attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Sonic waves are bouncing everywhere. First Frenzy's drums, then Brawl's cannon! The catacombs are shaking violently, and Grimlock's tromping around isn't helping, either! Hopefully the armor on those drones is holding out. They have more of that than Blurr himself, but fortunately for the courier, he doesn't need it!

<p class="MsoNormal">The speedster slides and somersaults about, managing to avoid both sonic attacks that come his way, as well as dodging any debris that fall in his direction. He laughs. Primus is it ever loud in here. And he thought Blaster's music had been loud over the comms. Still, he manages to hear Grimlock's roaring voice shouting at him over the din.

<p class="MsoNormal">"ALMOSTDONEGRIMLOCKI'VEINSTALLEDTHEMALLWEJUSTHAVETODRIVETHECONSOFFSOICANACTIVATETHECLOAKINGFIELDYEAHOKAY!" He calls out in response to the Dinobot. Turning his attention back to Brawl, he actually waltzes out in front of the Combaticon. "Hey Brawl, guess what!" he laughs, waving his arms. "Youstillhaven'thitmenopeyoustillhaven't!" He might just be talking like that to annoy Brawl. And before Brawl can swipe at him again, he runs off, putting some distance between them. But that was only so he could pick up momentum for another attack directed at the tank. Mech is it fun to taunt the stupid ones!

<p class="MsoNormal">In a flurry of moving parts, Blurr folds down into a pale blue-colored supersonic hovercar.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr> strikes Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> with his Adding To the Noise! attack! [Pulled -2]

<p class="MsoNormal">Skirting the edges of the Istoral Trench, the Cybertronian Sports Car comes to a stop with the squeel of tires. Jumping from the passenger seat, Stylor cranes his neck to peer down into the depths. "You sure they're down there, right? I mean, it's not worth getting dirty over if you aren't sure." the Nebulon priss pleads, looking pathetic.

<p class="MsoNormal">Transforming up in a headless robot, arms reach out for the Nebulon and attach him to the shoulders. Cracking his neck side to side, Chromedome peers down the edge and affixes a turbo-grappling hook. "Yes, I am certain.. now please cooperate. I don't want to look silly in front of my friends." he states, starting his ripcord descent.

<p class="MsoNormal">"No, it's not THAT dirty down here."

<p class="MsoNormal">Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> is sure to rip away some gunmetal gray armor as he's shaken off, and he staggers back as the sonic waves thrash the walls around him. Close quarters + Brawl? Not the best situation. Though there's little choice in the matter for now. Grimlock charges him with his crazy sword, splitting his side open and causing some internal combustions with the twisting. "FRRRAG! Rrrgh, DIE!" He reaches to grab Grimlock by his sword shoulder, falling back to rake his clawed feet over the mech's front.

<p class="MsoNormal">"Someone take down those drones!" shouts Krunk.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> strikes Grimlock with his Carbon-Steel Claws attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> gains significant altitude while a myriad amount of complex, finely-tuned subassemblies recalibrate themselves in-situ, having attained a satisfactory margin above the din below. Surveying the battlefield from such a great distance allows for a better understanding. Passing communications bursts with his allies, Blitzwing barrels back down into the war zone, singling out a particular target that had not yet been discovered until just so. A minigun drops from a pocket under Blitzwing's nosecone, and the weapon thrums to life, spewing hot lead in waves to cut down the Autobot speedster and the drone armada that he has deftly established during the fight. "I don't know what it is you think you got going here - I'm here to tell ya, it ain't happenin'!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> misses Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr> with his Vulcan Battery (Laser) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> (Blitzwing) used "Laser": A Level 2 RANGED attack.

<p class="MsoNormal">Frenzy collapses onto his hands and knees as interanl alarms go off, registering low energon levels. As Brawl lets loose an awesome sonic attack of his own, Frenzy activates a counter blast to protect himself as the energy wave rips down the trench tunnel. Lifting himself up, he slaps his optics back into phase again and ducks behind a large slab of wall for a second to gather himself before he lifts up off into the sky, taking the opportunity for a tactical withdrawal as Blast Off arrives. "Alright bots, I did all the work, you guys can clean up." Making sure to avoid Blitzwings blinding barrage of laser blaster fire.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Frenzy takes extra time to steady himself. [Pass]

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl is just in blind rage over the loss of his coloring book. When Getaway runs into him, he yells earsplitting, incomprehensibly foul profanities, and tries to shoot the Autobot with his cannon. He's not even listening to Snapdragon yet. He's just too mad. He will NEVER color that perfectly again.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> strikes Mazda RX-7 <Getaway> with his Tank Cannon attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Frenzy sets his defense level to Protected.

<p class="MsoNormal">Blast Off is flying in the area when Brawl radios him that "BLAST OFF BLURR RIPPED UP MY COLORING BOOK HELP ME AVENGE MY PICTURE OF GALVATRON.." The shuttleformer sighs and adjusts course, heading to the coordinates and landing near the entrance to the catacombs. Great, just great...another underground, claustrophbic "adventure" with Blurr and the Autobots....But if anyone can stop the hovercar, it's him, so...in he jumps!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Frenzy begins retreating, leaving himself vulnerable to parting shots from MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing>, Blast Off, Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr>, Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl>, Grimlock, Mazda RX-7 <Getaway>, and Chromedome

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster's still bumping music: o/~ Ain't gone hurt nobody, we just dancin' y'all! Ain't gone hurt nobody, out there on the floor! o/~ "Attention! To all my Main Mechs and Fly Femmes! PARTY IN THE ARK! And when I say get down here, I mean, GET DOWN!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Do you mean get down as in dance or join you."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Jazz says, "Probably both"

<p class="MsoNormal">Grimlock has, even in his short few decades of activation, gone through a lot.

<p class="MsoNormal">He's fought nearly every Decepticon of note- and quite a few Autobots besides, winning sometimes, losing others...but through it all, he's endured everything from fists to fusion cannons. As a result, it'll take a lot more than even Snapdragon shearing off chunks of Grimlock's armor to slow him down!

<p class="MsoNormal">On the other hand...the catacombs' structure isn't nearly as sturdy as Grimlock is.

<p class="MsoNormal">THe dinobot staggers back a few steps, heavy boots smashing down on the ground...which then cracks beneath him! He has just enough time to look downward, and grumble an "Uh oh." before the floor gives way, and the dincommander disappears from sight! There's a hellacious crash below, and then Grimlock's voice comes a few moments later.

<p class="MsoNormal">"Me Grimlock okay! Me just need get back up there for fightings! No let 'cons run 'way til me Grimlock get there for killings thems!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "That might be nice. ... Gotta overcome my fear of social gatherings, I guess."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Jetfire I have rust in my t-cog so you better come too."

<p class="MsoNormal">Wait, did someone just yell 'Someone take those drones down!'? Hmm, it seems the Decepticons were a bit more observant than Blurr thought! Well, all the more reason to drive them off before they can destroy the probes! Or maybe let them destroy a few, and then drive them off. Then replace them and cloak the entire network. Let 'em think they got the job done, heh!

<p class="MsoNormal">Blitzwing's minigun goes off in his direction, but Blurr saw the triplechange coming from above, and he easily evades the shot. "Nice try, Decepti-bums. But I thought I'd let you know, you guys haven't managed to hit me yet!" he proclaims. Ohhh, wait! Is that Blast Off?! Haha! This fight just got a lot more interesting! He ignores Grimlock's hilarious crash and turns his weapons upward at the incoming Combaticon. Well, other} Combaticon.

<p class="MsoNormal">The hovercar quickly unfolds upward and outward to reveal the fastest terrestrial Cybertronian in the galaxy, Blurr!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blurr sets his defense level to Aggressive.

<p class="MsoNormal">Somewhere in the midst of the collision and then tank shooting and everything else, Getaway gets blasted like there's no tomorrow. And for him, there might not be, because he's knocked right out of his car mode and back into Getaway. And he's leaking something as he goes sailing backwards and smashes into the wall. He's down for the moment.

<p class="MsoNormal">"This is a baaaaaad idea, Rev. Holy Neb." The Nebulon is being somewhat quieter even in the midst of all this noise and racket, as he peeks out from behind something or other. Could be one of the reasons Getaway had to transform. He makes with the quick feet and rushes over towards the tank, seeking to clamber up onto it for a little Nebulage. "Time for the BIG BABY to take a LITTLE NAP!" Oh ho! Rev with the witty banter! Oh and some crazy Nebulon technodoodadthingyboppersaywhaaaaat.

<p class="MsoNormal">Mazda RX-7 <Getaway> transforms into his Rev mode.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Rev sets his defense level to Fearless.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Rev strikes Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> with his Faulty Data Uplink attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Booster Pack Quantum Stabilizers is activated! It will use up a charge the next chance it gets!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blurr uses up a charge on his Quantum Stabilizers booster pack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Automatically deactivating booster pack Quantum Stabilizers

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blurr strikes Blast Off with his Quickdraw attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Finally reaching the appropriate depth, Chromedome unfastens himself from the aparatus and creeps forward with pistol held out. The other hand has a flashlight cradled in it, the Headmaster cautiously positions himself closer to the resounding chaos. And then suddenly, Getaway is bouncing off a wall and hitting the deck HARD!

<p class="MsoNormal">Dragging the Powermaster over behind an embankment, Chromedome begins to make some adjustments to Getaway's systems readout. Apparently he's already jarred some wires loose! "What's the situation here, Getaway? I heard something about a drone network and came as soon as I could!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Chromedome sets his defense level to Guarded.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Chromedome quickly recalibrates Rev's internal systems.

<p class="MsoNormal">MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> dips extremely low to the deck now, hovering steady at only a few meters from the floor of the chasm. Bouncing and dipping slightly as the terrain rises and falls and passes in fuzzy colors, Blitzwing screams after Blurr, kicking up a rooster tail of debris in his wake. Dueling speed with speed, Blitzwing keeps tight to the ground and focuses wholly on the speedster who has - curiously - diverted attention from him and onto a distant Combaticon instead. Will this prove to be Blurr's undoing?!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> sets his defense level to Fearless.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> strikes Blurr with his Sonic Spear (Ram) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> (Blitzwing) used "Ram": A Level 3 VELOCITY attack.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Chromedome says, "Chromedome reporting, Getaway is under repair for systems damage.  What is the situation here?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "Get rid of the Decepticons, and keep 'em away from our probes."

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl does not notice the tiny little Nebulan guy who crawls up to him and engages in UNPROTECTED INTERFACING.

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl can't think straight. Damn, Rev, you're just that good.

<p class="MsoNormal">Unfortunately now that Brawl can't think straight, he can't control his treads or his canon or anything. This means he's probably not going to be able to control what's going on...

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl>'s Tank Cannon attack on Rev goes wild!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> strikes Blast Off with his Tank Cannon attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> tromps towards the edge of the hole Grimlock has made and unleases a beastly roar into it, strings of oil flecking from his grotesque maw. "DO NOT CROSS ME AGAIN, WEAKLING!" Now for... hrm. Red. CHROMEDOME. "Tonight will be the end of you!" Snapdragon growls, turning to trudge towards Chromedome and his patient. His patient who is messing with Brawl's HEAD.

<p class="MsoNormal">"Bite him in half," Krunk hisses, and Snapdragon readily switches his target to Rev, jaws parted to try and snap the Powermaster up.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> strikes Rev with his SNAP attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Blast Off flies down into the tunnel. He can hear the sounds of battle below as his optics adjust to the dim light. Suddenly there is a flash of blue, and of light, as an attack strikes Blast Off's arm before he quite makes out all his surroundings. "Gahhh!" Shaking his head, he finally makes out his attacker- ah, of course. "Well, that was fast! Happy to see me, Blurr? Well, I must admit I'm happy to see you too! Allow me to return the warm welcome!" The shuttle watches as Blitzwing suddenly makes a successful attack, then brings out his ionic blaster. He glares at Blitzwing. "Lucky shot. This is MY prey now." Then Brawl suddenly joins in the fray, using this moment to gloriously- ...shoot his own teammate by mistake. <<YOU IDIOT!!!>> Blast Off huffs, reeling from a sudden influx of large amounts of damage, then tries to salvage the situation and aims for Blurr again. "Like I said, ALLOW ME TO RETURN THE FAVOR!" <<BRawl, I SHOULD be shooting YOU>>.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blast Off sets his defense level to Protected.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blast Off strikes Blurr with his FRIENDLY FIRE (Laser) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blast Off (Blast Off) used "Laser": A Level 2 RANGED attack.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Chromedome says, "Noted, engaging the enemy."

<p class="MsoNormal">Blurr is suddenly rammed by Blitzwing and shot by Blast Off. Perhaps it was because he was so focused on annoying Blast Off. Blitzwing's sharp wings clip him in the side, throwing him off balance and thus keeping him from being able to dodge Blast Off's shot. He's still grinning, though. "WHOA!WellwouldyoulookatthatyouguysfinallymanagedtohitmeI'maamazed!" Ignoring Blast Off's sarcasm for now, he transforms, taking on his hovercar form as he speeds toward Blitzwing. The triplechanger wants to fight speed with speed, eh? Well, he can certainly play along with that game!

<p class="MsoNormal">"Oh and Blast Off, did you forget? I don't care about you anymore. Or do your memory banks need to be recalibrated?"

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blurr sets his defense level to Neutral.

<p class="MsoNormal">In a flurry of moving parts, Blurr folds down into a pale blue-colored supersonic hovercar.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr> misses MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> with his Sonic Boom attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">"Blurr. Drones. Cons. Ambush." Getaway manages to get these words out because as he gets things readjusted and such. In a moment, though, he's managing to get his head back on straight. "Wait wait. Where's Rev?" Optics go a bit more wide as he looks around quickly. "Rev!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Off in the distance, though, Rev is getting snatched up by the Snapdragon. Rev is immediately flailing and screaming out in pain, as he's just getting crunched upon. He can't really get himself free, but the locks eyes to optics with Getaway.

<p class="MsoNormal">"Thanks, CD. Gotta' move." Getaway is back on his feet and whipping out that shotgun of his, leaping over rubble and running towards Snapdragon. "Dinner's over, Snappy." is muttered as Getaway hits the ground and slides, sending shells in the dinocons direction! Drop the Nebulon, slaggit!

<p class="MsoNormal">Slipping and sliding apart, the stylized Mazda RX-7 unfolds and reshapes itself into the only Autobot that gets off scott free: Getaway!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Getaway sets his defense level to Aggressive.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Getaway strikes Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> with his Plasma-Shell Shotgun attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Once Snapdragon inserts himself into the mini-recalibration of Getaway's systems, Chromedome does his best to yank the Powermaster out of harm's way.. to no avail. The Decepticon indeed latched onto his most former patient, but such wickedness will not go unpunished.

<p class="MsoNormal">Seizing up whatever amounts of courage the programmer can muster, the Headmaster throws himself forward and attempts to latch onto Snapdragon's head. Already shooting off popshots with his laser pistol at Snapdragon's optics, Chromedome does his best to hang on until backup arrives. "Was this part of the plan??" Chromedome shouts to Getaway, hanging on for dear life.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Chromedome sets his defense level to Fearless.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Chromedome strikes Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> with his Ride 'Em Cowbot Pistol Whip! (Laser) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">"SORRY BLAST OFF I DID NOT MEAN TO SHOOT YOU IT WAS THAT TINY GUY HE... HE TOUCHED MY SPECIAL BRAIN AREA!" Brawl shouts.

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl will be in the washracks sobbing uncontrollably for weeks. GOOD JOB REV.

<p class="MsoNormal">"I WILL GET THAT ONE GUY FOR YOU THAT YOU CAN NEVER HIT OKAY," he reassures very, very loudly, as Brawl tries to take a pot shot at Blurr.

<p class="MsoNormal">He will probably miss, but that's okay. It'll hit the *wall* and probably start to collapse the tunnel. On everyone. Maybe.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> misses Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr> with his Tank Cannon attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> (Brawl) used "Tank Cannon": A Level 6 RANGED attack.

<p class="MsoNormal">An ominous rumble shudders through the tunnels. The support structures are getting weak.

<p class="MsoNormal">MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing>, a javelin of power and speed, lances through Blurr, damaging his own frame some in the process - though the trade off is definitely worth it. A moment later, though, if jets could relay surprise, the MiG would be in utter shock right now. The cobalt Cybertronian careens /past/ Blitzwing with a thundering sonic boom trailing closely behind. After the astonishment wears off, Blitzwing quickly realizes that the Autobot aims to use the sonic shockwave as a weapon proper! Blitzwing's thrusters flare out and the jet launches after its opponent, also breaking through the sound barrier. The two clouds converge together and expand, shuddering with another flare of sonic prowess. To perhaps the detriment of both combatants, the resounding cacophony drowns out whatever noises the suffering infrastructure of the canyon may be making in its attempts at foreshadowing. Blitzwing continues to chase after Blurr, a weapons bay unfurling under his fuselage. A missile drops out from the rack salvo, and jumps after the Autobot with a howl of explosive force.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> strikes Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr> with his Concussion Missile attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> (Blitzwing) used "Concussion Missile": A Level 6 RANGED attack.

<p class="MsoNormal">Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> chews into poor Rev, coating the Powermaster with all manner of grime. Krunk laughs giddily, "Too bad Snapdragon has a taste for engines!" Alas, Getaway cuts his glee short, and Snapdragon gets a few shots to the neck. This combined with Chomedome /tackling his face/ makes him release Rev. "GET OFF OF ME YOU FOOL!" the rex roars, only to get shot in his good optic. Animalistic rage overwhelms him, and he thrashes heavily, bucking and swinging his head to try and jar Chromedome loose. But Chromedome is quite the cowboy! Eventually Snapdragon charges straight for the nearest wall in an attempt to smash Chromedome between it and his massive skull. The mission objective is forgotten, and the rumbling of the tunnels is unheard.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> strikes Chromedome with his RRRRAAAAUUUGHHHH (Ram) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Searchlight folds into a FORD RS200 RALLY CAR!

<p class="MsoNormal">Blast Off hmphs. "If that is truly the case, Blurr, then explain to me how someone like Blitzwing just managed to hit YOU of all mechs while you were, oh, I don't know, too busy attacking me to notice?" Blurr then proceeds to attack Blitzwing instead and Blast Off grips his blaster and follows after him. Then Brawl makes his attack, hitting the walls and making them shake. <<.....Tiny...special brain area...???? ....What do you mean I never hit him, are you insulting my shooting abilities, now, too?!! ...Brawl, for many, many, many reasons, you and I are having a little talk when we get back to base.>> As the walls shake, the Combaticon suddenly feels very uncomfortable. Soaring through vast reaches of space as a shuttle= his thing, definitely. Battling 'Bots in small, cramped areas underground= NO. Especially when the walls begin quaking and the shuttle suddenly starts to feel slightly claustrophobic. This reminds him a bit too much of last time..... But he continues on, determined, yelling at the 'Bot. "In fact, I think you like the attention, Blurr... you've always been a show-off! But I admit, showing off has its place. In fact, I'd be happy to help you put on a truly great performance for all to view- your swan song!" With that, he fires at Blurr again.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blast Off strikes Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr> with his Your Greatest Performance LET ME HELP YOU (Laser) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blast Off (Blast Off) used "Laser": A Level 2 RANGED attack.

<p class="MsoNormal">"Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee-haaaaaaaaaaaaaah!" Chromedome lets out a giant call, actually getting into his unlikliest of combat manuevers by digging his heels in and sending off more shots from his pistol. Who would have thought riding Snapdragon like a bucking bronco would be so.. exhilarating?

<p class="MsoNormal">The ride of his life however, comes to a short and very abrupt halt when Snapdragon rams him into a wall. His back is knocked solidly, arms automatically splaying out upon impact. Chromedome does his best to pick himself out of the wall, falling down to the ground below with a heaved sigh of pain. "We'll see, troglodite!" the Headmaster manages to grow some sterner stuff, if you know what I mean.

<p class="MsoNormal">Transforming into vehicle mode, Stylor hits the back of the futuristic sports car and activates a few buttons. The back of the vehicle opens up, to reveal a mini-plasma turret.. that takes aim at Snapdragon's leg joints as the car speeds past.

<p class="MsoNormal">"Ugh, told you it was dirty down here!" Stylor coughs, firing off another salvo of blasts. "Especially this vile beast, instead of shooting him we should give him a bath!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Chromedome's head pops off his shoulders, while the rest of the body transforms into a Cybertronian Sports Car!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Cybertronian Sports Car <Chromedome> strikes Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> with his INSULTING LAZOR TURRETS! attack!

<p class="MsoNormal"><< I would think he'd prefer the laser shower, Stylor.>> Chromedome adds.

<p class="MsoNormal">Ford RS200 Rally Car <Searchlight> pulls into view from his hiding spot, where the Triggerbot spy has been observing the battle. He's been studying the Decepticons in relationship to reflective surfaces, watching patterns in their swarm like combat manuevers...waiting for the right to...

<p class="MsoNormal"><<Autobots, guard your optics in 3...2...>>

<p class="MsoNormal">

<p class="MsoNormal">And then the highbeams come on. Things get bright.

<p class="MsoNormal">Getaway scoops up Rev in mid-slide and rolls with him, taking the moment to duck behind whatever is nearest. He needs some time. Just a little bit of time. "Rev? Rev, talk to me. Come on, Rev." Getaway is hunched over the prone and bleeding Nebulon body. Rev isn't moving, but he's at least breathing. Somewhat. It's not enough for Getaway, though. He pokes and prods at Rev's body, trying to get him to wake up. He's not..

<p class="MsoNormal">So Getaway does the only thing he can do at this moment:

<p class="MsoNormal">"Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Getaway has not caught on to any tumble rumbling.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Getaway sets his defense level to Protected.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Getaway takes extra time to steady himself. [Pass]

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Ford RS200 Rally Car <Searchlight> strikes Blast Off with his Strobe Flash Area attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: That attack has temporarily limited Blast Off's Accuracy! (Blinded)

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Ford RS200 Rally Car <Searchlight> strikes MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> with his Strobe Flash Area attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: That attack has temporarily limited MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing>'s Accuracy! (Blinded)

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Ford RS200 Rally Car <Searchlight> strikes Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> with his Strobe Flash Area attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: That attack has temporarily limited Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl>'s Accuracy! (Blinded)

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Ford RS200 Rally Car <Searchlight> strikes Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon> with his Strobe Flash Area attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: That attack has temporarily limited Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon>'s Accuracy! (Blinded)

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Chromedome says, "Good thing Stylor always wears designer sunglasses."

<p class="MsoNormal">Well, well, well! It looks like Blurr has the Decepticons' attention! This is a good thing, actually, even though his systems are screaming at him. Battered, but not out! The walls of the cavern around them are trembling, but it's a good thing Blurr still has the 'probe gun' in his subspace! <<Looks like we're going to have to pick a different location for these.>> he transmits over the comm. Brawl's cannon barely fazes him, though Blitzwing's missile and Blast Off's shots tear into what little armor he has.

<p class="MsoNormal">

<p class="MsoNormal">"Actually, Blast Off, you're right! I do enjoy the attention! Which is exactly why I let you guys hit me! So why don't you all make sure I don't get away and humiliate you all!" And with that he zooms off toward some crumbling caverns, hoping to lead them away and distract them from the rest of his team. He'll have to worry about installing the rest of the drones later, and at a more discreet location.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr> sets his defense level to Fearless.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr> takes extra time to steady himself. [Pass]

<p class="MsoNormal">Mecha Tyrannosaurus <Snapdragon>'s jaws smash into the wall where Chromedome has slid down, and he pulls away with a chunk of metal and wires, optics sparking. "Hrrnnnghh," he snarls, shaking his head. "I'm not through with you- ARGH!" Chromedome gets him right in the leg joints, and he staggers, slumping onto his abdomen. To top it all off, Searchlight fills the tunnel with light and overloads his optical sensors.

<p class="MsoNormal">"All right, enough of this shit," Krunk mutters, transforming from Snapdragon's head to his power armor. No real tactics here - Krunk just decides to start running straight for Chromedome, aiming to use the momentum to break through his windshield!

<p class="MsoNormal">Snapdragon's head pops off and splits into Krunk, Zarak's bodyguard!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Krunk <Snapdragon> strikes Cybertronian Sports Car <Chromedome> with his SMASH (Grab) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> cackles as he watches the missile broil into an inferno upon reaching the Autobot. Oddly though, Blitzwing throttles back and does not move ahead to investigate the results of the successful airstrike - instead, signaling after Blast Off to continue the pursuit. Blitzwing swoops up to double back and return to the rest of the Decepticons, but he chooses the absolutely worst time to attempt this maneuver. The triplechanger is bowled over by an optical assult from Searchlight, and loses control. The MiG whips end over end and crashes into the side of the canyon.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> strikes himself with his Sonic Spear (Ram) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">The bright flash catches Brawl's sensors and everything is white static. He can't see a darn thing. Still, he tries.

<p class="MsoNormal">"I WILL MAKE YOU PROUD OF ME BLAST OFF I WILL HIT BETTER WATCH ME!!!"

<p class="MsoNormal">He ... takes off, driving blind, trying to run over something. He might even run over himself.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> strikes himself with his Making Blast Off Proud (Punch) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl drives partway up a wall and flips over onto his back.

<p class="MsoNormal">Blast Off smirks (metaphorically, at the very least) as his shot hits again! Then Searchlight makes with the light show and the intent-on-the-hunt Combaticon is caught by surprise and blinded. He stops, faltering, and holds his hands up over his optics. "What the?...." He hears Blurr's taunts and, with a twitch of aelirons, tries to make his way after the hovercar 'Bot... but it's kind of difficult at the moment. He stumbles over a piece of debris as he goes- not exactly the epitome of grace for the normally agile 'Con. Hearing the loud crash of Blitzwing's impact nearby does not help the nearly blinded Combaticon's nerves, either, and he jumps back. Then Brawl- OH PRIMUS WHY IS BLAST OFF ETERNALLY DOOMED TO BE ON THE SAME TEAM AS THAT GUY???? ...With a hiss, he collects himself and looks after the speeding blue blurr, firing again- and hoping it connects.... things are kind of spotty right now. "I knew it! Well, the only humiliation I intend to see is YOURS, Blurr!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr> expertly evades Blast Off's attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blast Off misses Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr> with his Shots in the dark- I mean light... (Laser) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blast Off (Blast Off) used "Laser": A Level 2 RANGED attack.

<p class="MsoNormal">The front window on Chromedome's vehicle mode smashes in with little effort, Krunk's arrival sends shards of glass every which way. Attempting to compensate, the car sways from side to side and attempts to stay on the road.

<p class="MsoNormal">Stepping forward from the rear compartment of the vehicle, Stylor places an armored booted heel on the top of the driver's seat and leans forward. "You've got a lot of nerve, Krunk! Ruining one planet's shine wasn't enough for you two, now you're going for another? What's next, a hat trick?" he Nebulon so eloquently puts it, forgoing his laser pistol for some hand-to-hand tactics.

<p class="MsoNormal">Hopefully he doesn't break a nail or push back a cuticle.

<p class="MsoNormal">Chromedome's head pops off, transforming into the stylin' and profilin' Nebulon Stylor!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Stylor <Chromedome> strikes Krunk <Snapdragon> with his Finesse Fighting! (Punch) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Ford RS200 Rally Car <Searchlight> transforms into his robot mode, keeping his distance from the battlefield. He sees everything happening at once, as it were right in front of him...And not just the combatants- the environment, currents of air picking up dust...Searchlight takes a moment to concentrate, touching each of his fingers to his thumbs... There. He focuses in on Snapdragon, studying the Headmaster from the inside out, taking note of weaknesses in circuitry and armor, and how his infrastructure reacts to Chromedome's punch...

<p class="MsoNormal">Searchlight snaps into ROBOT MODE!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Searchlight analyzes Snapdragon for weaknesses Chromedome can exploit.

<p class="MsoNormal">Again, Blurr evades the blast. It was surprisingly easy, given the amount of damage he's already taken. Seems he's successfully distracted Blast Off from the rest of the fight, while the rest of them blunder around like idiots in the wake of Searchlight's dazzling attack. Ironic, isn't it? How Blast Off is talking about humiliation, and how the Decepticons seem to be the only ones humiliating themselves.

<p class="MsoNormal">

<p class="MsoNormal">"Haha! I'm the only one you intend to see humiliated, eh? How's that going for you, so far? Not very well, huh? You know, especially with Brawl driving into a wall and everything. So go ahead, humiliate me, then!" he laughs. "Or try. Maybe I'll let you in on a little secret--see the thing is, you guys only ever hit me 'cause I let you."

<p class="MsoNormal">And he continues to zip about, taunting the Combaticon with the intent of keeping him distracted while he comms the rest of his team. <<Someone take care of Blast Off, I can't keep this up forever.>>

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr> takes extra time to steady himself. [Pass]

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Searchlight says, "Chromedome, I've highlighted several pressure points on Snapdragon for you to focus on."

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl has no choice but to transform to right himself. Still bearing an enormous Grimlock footprint on his chest, he staggers forward, fumbling for his gun, unable to see.

<p class="MsoNormal">"I'LL STOP THE AUTOBOTS!" he announces, brave as can be, drawing his weapon and firing at whatever he happens to hear first.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Chromedome says, "Acknowledged, Stylor has added to that list with such insight as: Wrong shade of maroon, the cut-off sleeve jean jacket is outdated, and poor smell."

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl>'s Blind Shootin' attack on Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr> goes wild!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> strikes Krunk <Snapdragon> with his Blind Shootin' (Laser) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Searchlight says, "Ok."

<p class="MsoNormal">MiG-25PD "Foxbat-E" <Blitzwing> clatters painfully off the canyon wall, falling a few hundred feet before various internal systems eventually reboot and allow the triplechanger the wherewithal to rectify the present situation. The giant jet then quickly shifts modes, and Blitzwing easily descends the rest of the slope as a menacing-looking tank. The 125mm turret adorning the war weapon searches out the offending party responsible for that last dastardly attack on the collected 'Cons. "That was rude!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Blitzwing transforms into a Leopard 2A6M tank.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 2A6M <Blitzwing> strikes Searchlight with his 125mm Slug (Pistol) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Krunk <Snapdragon> gets a nice punch to the armored mug, and he clings to the shattered window, kneeling on the glass. "Heh heh, it'll never be enough, Stylor. Ya' picked the wrong team... An' now you're gonna' die!" Yanking a dinosaur tooth-lined arm back, he swings it at Stylor's chest, aiming to rip the armor open. Whether or not he's successful, a sudden blast of laserfire lights up his backside and drives him face first into the passenger seat. "GAH!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Krunk <Snapdragon> misses Stylor <Chromedome> with his Bodyguard Skills attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Blast Off 's engine revs in some annoyance as Blurr continues to toss insults. Blast Off is injured- quite a bit before he even hardly began the battle.... but Blurr HAS to be feeling some of it too. And he's well aware that Blurr is likely trying to pull the Cons away from his fellow Autobots... the Combaticon is no stranger to battle tactics, after all. But Blast Off just doesn't really care. This is personal... he wants to finish off that annoying blue Autofool once and for all. Make him STOP for once. The odds are... it won't be right now, not with all this damage. But every encounter provides more information. Vision finally clearing somewhat, he flies more rapidly after the hovercar bot. "Oh really? And how do you do that? ...Or, let me guess, you're making another empty boast. I have hit you quite often- are you saying that you simply enjoy being shot? ...Let me oblige, if so!" Blurr probably won't tell Blast Off all his evading secrets, but it's worth a shot to see if he lets anything slip.....and speaking of shots....

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr> expertly evades Blast Off's attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blast Off misses Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr> with his Shooting Holes in That Theory-or trying to.... (Laser) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blast Off (Blast Off) used "Laser": A Level 2 RANGED attack.

<p class="MsoNormal">Searchlight is so focused on Snapdragon that he doesn't spot Blitzwing until it's too late- sometimes you control your supervision, and sometimes your supervision controls you. He tries to dive and roll to evade, but gets shot mid leap for his troubles. Searchlight goes down, side smoking, and transforms, revving his engine in a face off with the hulking bully. There's no witty banter, because Searchlight has a hard time talking even when he's been planning the conversation- so witty banter is completely off the menu. His outermost headlights hum to life and he starts focusing on escaping.

<p class="MsoNormal">Searchlight folds into a FORD RS200 RALLY CAR!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Ford RS200 Rally Car <Searchlight> strikes Leopard 2A6M <Blitzwing> with his Blinding Glare attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 2A6M <Blitzwing> has been temporarily incapacitated.

<p class="MsoNormal">Stylor actually connects with the punch? Hell, he seems more surprised than Krunk is! Instead of inserting some quick witty banter into his combat plan, the Nebulon stylist instead pulls a dance move and waltzes out of the way of the planned armor-rip. Ducking back in a very regal manner, Stylor asserts himself by trying to lay an armored foot on Krunk's head and squish him down into the seat further.

<p class="MsoNormal">"Wrong team? Have you seen what they have you wearing?" Stylor actually scoffs, a small chuckle slightly stifled.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Stylor <Chromedome> strikes Krunk <Snapdragon> with his Buckle Up! (Kick) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">"You got it, Blast Off! I let you shoot me. Know why? Because I feel sorry for you. I mean, look at Brawl! He couldn't hit me if his life depended on it! And he just drove into a wall! I'm an Autobot. I have to let you have some remnant of your honor." Not entirely true, but anything to injure Decepticon morale!

<p class="MsoNormal">And while's bantering and dodging Blast Off's shots, he's hit the remote activation sequence for the cloaking field. The field creates a slight energy spike that pops up momentarily on everyone's scanners, and the drones disappear from sight and from detection. << I'm pulling out...I don't think I can take any...more...>>

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr> begins retreating, outrunning all pursuit.

<p class="MsoNormal">Krunk <Snapdragon> grunts at the style comment, stupid dandy! He's smashed into the seat with a curse, and twists around to try and yank Stylor's foot out from under him with a tremendous heave. If he's lucky he'll manage to toss Stylor right onto Chromedome's hood, or even under his wheels! If he's unlucky, which is sadly the case right now, at least Snapdragon is... Snapdragon?

<p class="MsoNormal">Snapdragon is sprawled near the fractured wall, a headless t-rex, bleeding from his sides. He ain't budging.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Krunk <Snapdragon> strikes Stylor <Chromedome> with his Yoink (Kick) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Leopard 2A6M <Blitzwing> rattles off like tanks are wont to do, in an attempt to pursue Searchlight. Unfortunately for Blitzwing, he is yet again bombarded by a disorienting light array of questionable nature. Blitzwing's power train shudders and capitulates, and all the lights lining the war machine grow dim. Blitzwing remains motionless, unmoving.

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl rubs his visor. He can finally SEE!

<p class="MsoNormal">.... Things don't look so good.

<p class="MsoNormal">He takes just a moment to try to retrieve the remains of his coloring book, and load his gun, but his anger has NOT abated.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> sets his defense level to Fearless.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> takes extra time to steady himself. [Pass]

<p class="MsoNormal">Leopard 1A1 Tank <Brawl> transforms into his Brawl mode.

<p class="MsoNormal">Blast Off 's vents hiss slightly at that particular insult as the hovercar races off. Blast Off takes great pride at his shooting skills and insults to THAT do burn to some degree, despite the fact that he should know better. ...What if what Blurr said is true? "Speaking of honor, Blurr, how honorable is FLEEING from the battlefield? Come back and face your doom like you actually possess some struts!!!" He shakes his head. Slaggit, looks like when Blast Off is teaching everyone *else* shoooting skills later, he'll be shoring up on his own. He's been around Onslaught long enought to know that every obstacle can be met with some sort of strategy, and he will simply keep pressing until he finds the correct one. ...Even if it off-lines him. There's a small rumble in the still-unsteady walls, and the shuttle looks nervously around again. Now what?

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blast Off takes extra time to steady himself. [Pass]

<p class="MsoNormal">Perhaps he was too sure of himself? Too assertive? Far too cocksure when facing an opponent like Krunk, Zarak's personal bodyguard? Whatever the case might be, Sytlor is indeed flung through the window and lands face down on Chromedome's hood. The car is already driving around the area recklessly, picking up speed at dangerous rates. With hands sprawled in front of him, Stylor twists around and reaches for his boot-holstered pistol.

<p class="MsoNormal">"I mean, one.. you're wearing white after labor day; which is a terrible affront to terran culture. Secondly, those teal and purple accents make you look a lot thicker around the handles.. if you know what I mean." the Nebulon dandy attempts to lighten the mood, still somewhat reeling from the hood slap-smash. "Overall, I would have made the lines run more vertical to your frame." he adds at last, pulling the trigger on his pistol.

<p class="MsoNormal"><<Stylor, I will attempt to coordinate driving manuevers to aid you in your fight!>> Chromedome pipes up, taking a swift left turn.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Stylor <Chromedome> sets his defense level to Guarded.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Stylor <Chromedome> strikes Krunk <Snapdragon> with his Boot Holster'd Pew! (Laser) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Krunk <Snapdragon> falls to the ground, unconscious.

<p class="MsoNormal">Ford RS200 Rally Car <Searchlight> peels out and takes his moment to bail on Blitzwing, as planned. the rally car shreds, weaving through the battlefield to put plenty of distance between himself and the Decepticon.

<p class="MsoNormal">“You can have your honor, Blast Off; I'll just be smart!" Blurr calls back at the Combaticon as he takes off in search of a new location for more surveillance drones. A trail of his energon is left behind, and his body is ripped and torn in so many places he could bet even Searchlight wouldn't be able to count them all...

<p class="MsoNormal">All the better, though, to show how close Blast Off was to finally bringing the speedster down. Well, with help from Blitzwing. A lot of it, actually. The trails of fuel just....they even seem to be laughing up at the Combaticon.

<p class="MsoNormal">Na-na-na-na-NA-NA!

<p class="MsoNormal">Close, but just not quite enough!

<p class="MsoNormal">Krunk <Snapdragon> thought Stylor might've SHUT HIS FACE by now, but the dandy presses on about... colors and clothing. And handles? He tries to claw himself upright, spiked armor ripping up the dash, but by the time he sits up, Stylor nails him with a blast to the face. The impact knocks him out and fries his master suit, and he slumps against Chromedome's seat. Not the best place to be when you're unconscious.

<p class="MsoNormal">

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl, damaged and not entirely sure what is going on around him, shoots at the closest thing to him that has an Autobot badge, while cradling his precious coloring book to his chest.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Chromedome uses up a charge on his Stand! Anger Of A Headmaster! booster pack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Brawl strikes Stylor <Chromedome> with his Electron Gun attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">Blast Off looks down with disgust at the trail of Blurr's energon. He considers, aelirons still feeling twitchy, then turns away muttering "Well, you're smart enough to flee ME. But I suppose I can't blame you for that..." Feeling better and more comfortably superior now, the shuttleformer picks his way back towards the others. He walks past Blitzwing and leaves him to collect dust- not feeling a bit bad about it, either, especially not after that last simulator exercise against Ravage where he was left to the "mercies" of Swindle. He comes up towards his fellow Combaticon. "Brawl! Now that's more like it!"

<p class="MsoNormal">Stylor sits up from the hood, sliding in through the broken windshield and taking a relaxed seat in the driver's side and breathes a sigh of relief. Combat banter aside, the Nebulon was scared for his life the entire time. The only thing that kept him from wetting himself and hiding was focusing on the subtle style details of the room, Krunk, etc.

<p class="MsoNormal">A COUPLE MOMENTS LATER..

<p class="MsoNormal">Chromedome pulls up next to Snapdragon's body, the passenger side door pops open with a *KLIK*. Shoved out of the vehicle, Krunk is deposited next to his *Master partner.. a little less-worse for wear. Namely, Stylor used an ashen shade of burgandy to highlight his cheekbones, some dark ebony mascara lines under his eyes to bring out the natural Nebulon hues, and some lip plumper to make his face seem more even.

<p class="MsoNormal">That's right, Krunk just got a makeover.

<p class="MsoNormal">Pulling away, a canon blast rocks the side of the vehicle and upends it.. Chromedome just barely transforming in mid-air to catch Stylor and place him on his shoulders out of harm's way. Attempting to pick himself up off the ground, his right arm cradles an open energon wound that seeps visciously. Applying a quick salve, the Headmaster pulls back to another embankment and takes some pot shots with his dual-laser pistol. "Did Blurr manage to make his escape?" he asks aloud, unsure who or what is still in the vicinity after that epic Nebulon car fight.

<p class="MsoNormal">Jumping off the rear mounted Dual-Laser cannon, Stylor transforms into a head.. which is caught in large robotic hands and placed on the shoulders of Chromedome!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Chromedome sets his defense level to Aggressive.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Chromedome strikes Brawl with his Dual Lasers attack!

<p class="MsoNormal">

<p class="MsoNormal">Brawl is shot several times, too big and too injured to really dodge the pot shots. He turns his back and protects the shredded remains of his coloring book, which, in his mind, was the real point of this mission.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Brawl takes extra time to steady himself. [Pass]

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock's radio filters just a little music....

<p class="MsoNormal">Blast Off watches as Chromedome's dual lasers hit Brawl and the shuttle's ionic blaster lifts up at the Autobot immediately. Brawl may be an idiot, but he's the Combaticon's idiot, and no one (except possibly his teammates) can get away with such an attack! He answers Chromedome's earlier question: "Blurr ran away, like a coward- leaving you to my mercy! And I have none. Certainly not to an Autofool attacking my team mate....." He watches Brawl briefly. "And his.....coloring books. (sigh)..." He shakes his head in a "why me?" mannerism, then fires at Chromedome.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blast Off strikes Chromedome with his Sweet Crayola Revenge (Laser) attack!

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock sings along, just a little. "As I walk through the city streets, these frightened people watching me pass; there is an evil that holds them here, yet they won't try breaking its grasp. But if I stay here with you... then I will leave them to their doom!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Do not say this is how it has to be. You do no better than the fools of this burning city~"

<p class="MsoNormal">Leopard 2A6M <Blitzwing>'s overloaded systems /finally/ purge themselves properly, and with a large, angry, pissed off roar, the machine thunders up like a genie escaping a bottle, and the whole thing stands now in a more humanoid form. The hulking monster pants heavily, as though he were claustrophobic and had just rescued from a well. With one heavy sigh, Blitzwing marches forward again, noting the lifeless husks of Snapdragon and Krunk. "Ah, hell..." <<Anyone else still kicking out there?>>, he transmits via short-range radio.

<p class="MsoNormal">Blitzwing transforms into his robot mode.

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Ultra Magnus says, "Shiftlock, I say this once.  Clear the channel for -official- Autobot business."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Ultra Magnus says, "Do not try my patience."

<p class="MsoNormal">Ducking low under the embankment, Blast Off's attack grazes Chromedome shoulders and washes over his frame with pure ionic goodness. Leaving scathing scorches across his frame, the Autobot's premier programmer can only propel himself forward with his backfoot and transform to escape the more harsh effects of the Combaticon's return fire.

<p class="MsoNormal"><< I don't think that word means what you think it means.>> Chromedome emits to Blast Off with blinking lights, trying to find an exit and guns his engines.

<p class="MsoNormal">Chromedome's head pops off his shoulders, while the rest of the body transforms into a Cybertronian Sports Car!

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Cybertronian Sports Car <Chromedome> sets his defense level to Protected.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Cybertronian Sports Car <Chromedome> begins retreating, leaving himself vulnerable to parting shots from Cybertronian Hovercar <Blurr>

<p class="MsoNormal">Blast Off watches the Autobot peel away, wishing he was in shuttle mode so he could pursue...but being stuck in tight, constricting catacombs doesn't really help his maneuverability, being too small for a full size space shuttle. << I am still here, Blitzwing. Brawl is injured. The Autofools have all fled like cowards.>> He glances back up towards the ceiling and hopes the walls remain standing.

<p class="MsoNormal">Combat: Blast Off takes extra time to steady himself. [Pass]

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "Hey! U Mags! Relax, mech. She's just helping me make a new Decepitcan't Touch This mixtape!"

<p class="MsoNormal">As the Autobots take off and the Decepticons take stock of their situation, the cloaked network of surveillance probes continue to watch silently from their various positions around the mainframe, taking in every bit of information they can possibly glean from detectable enemy activity...

<p class="MsoNormal">It's too bad they didn't listen to Snapdragon, eh?

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Ultra Magnus says, "While you relax, Blurr's team came DANGEROUSLY close to being annihilated."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "But they didn't, right? They made it, right?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "M-magnus? I-I got the probes in."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster says, "WHOOMP! THERE IT IS!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Ultra Magnus says, "Blaster, shut it."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Ultra Magnus says, "Blurr, is your team fully accounted for?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "Cloaking field is active. The 'Cons didn't even try to deactivate them."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster closes his mouth, but turns up the music. o/~ Whoomp, There It Is! Whoomp, There it Is! o/~

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "Ummm...yeah. Except for Grimlock."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Shiftlock says, "Blaster, don't..."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Ultra Magnus says, "Wait, Grimlock is MIA?  Blaster, you are treading on dangerous ground."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "I think he fell onto a lower level. He said he'd try to get back to us, but he never showed."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Ultra Magnus says, "Keep me posted, in the meantime get yourself to the repair bay and get fixed up.  You would have had reinforcements, if required, but some mechs thought it better to occupy a Communications Hub with R&R rather than actual work."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "Reinforcements? Nah. We were fine!"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blaster switches tapes, o/~ Hate To Say I Told You Soooooooooo! o/~

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "Mission accomplished, and that's all that matters."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Ultra Magnus says, "I look forward to your extensive report."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "Y-yeah, as soon as I...get repairs...I mean. I'll get on it right away, Magnus."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Ultra Magnus says, "Blurr?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "...Yeah?"

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Ultra Magnus says, "Good job, soldier."

<p class="MsoNormal"><Autobot> Blurr says, "...thanks."

<p class="MsoNormal">