Revival 10

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===================== Autobot ==============================

Message: 3/22 Posted Author

Me Wed Oct 02 Hot Rod

Uhh.. hey, guys. I, uhm.. sorry I haven't posted anything before this, but... well. *he looks away from the camera uneasily, then seems to make an internal decision and turns back, his voice steadier* I want to apologize for the way I've been acting lately. I blew up on a few people and I wish I hadn't. So I'm sorry. I.. my life's just kind of been turned upside-down here and I guess I'm having some trouble readjusting to it.. *he trails off thoughtfully, tightening a fist, then looking back up at the recorder* Okay, a lot. But all I really want is my own life back -- is that so much to ask? I'm trying to get back to some semblence of normality here, and I can't do that if I have people throwing accusations at me from all sides. Please, guys.. do me this one last favor. I'm trying to fit in. Let me.

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Eject nods to Hot Rod. "Hello, Rodi...Hot Rod, how are you doing?"

Hot Rod ignores the slip and shrugs noncommitally. "Fine."

Firestar enters from the Repair Bay to the south.

Firestar stands and leans up against the wall next to the medbay.

Hot Rod glances back at Firestar and grimaces uncomfortably.

Arcee enters from the Command Center to the east.

Arcee enters slowly.

Eject nods at Arcee.

Spike has arrived.

Hot Rod shuffles over to Firestar, studying the floor for a moment before looking up at her. "Listen, I'm.. sorry. I shouldn't've blown up like that last night."

Spike walks in and blinks

Ultra Magnus enters from the Command Center to the east.

Firestar shakes her head at Hot Rod, "You have a moment?"

Ultra Magnus looks around the room after entering

You say, "Yeah, I.. guess so.."

Spike transmits a message via radio.

Arcee says, "Hi UM."

Firestar jerks a thumb south.

Ultra Magnus says, "Hello."

Firestar leaves to the Repair Bay to the south.

Hot Rod heads after Firestar somewhat reluctantly.

You move south to the Repair Bay...

Repair Bay

Contents: Firestar

Obvious exits:

Shaft Downward  leads to Training Chamber.

Doors  leads to Main Lobby - First Floor.

Firestar takes a seat on the edge of the medbay, "Look, Im the one that needs to apologize..."

Transmission from Optimus Prime: Do you have a moment?

Firestar says, "I helped bring Optimus back, believing fully that..."

Hot Rod listens quietly, erking at his radio.

Firestar errs, "Someone else is callin, it can wait..."

You say, "You sure?"

Firestar says, "If it's important, I'm positive."

Firestar looks down at the floor.

You transmit a message to Optimus Prime: Uhm, sure. What is it?

Transmission from Optimus Prime: I would like to discuss a certain non-agression pact with you.

Hot Rod touches Firestar's forearm hesitantly. "Listen, I've been on edge for the past-- I don't know. For a long time. I've been blowing up at stuff for no good reason and I'm sorry. I'm trying to watch it-- oh, great, I'm in trouble again. I'll.. talk to you later."

Hot Rod breaks and heads for the door quickly.

You move north to the Main Lobby - First Floor...

Main Lobby - First Floor

Contents: Arcee, Eject

Arcee says, "No..."

Arcee says, "Wait a sec."

Firestar enters from the Repair Bay to the south.

Hot Rod heads through the room at a jog, pausing a beat halfway to the far door. "Who, me?"

Eject transmits a message via radio.

Firestar comes in after Hot Rod, "whats up?"

Eject receives a radio transmission.

Spike enters from the Entrance to Autobot City to the west.

Spike says, "She's not outside."

Spike moves upward.

Trailbreaker enters from the Entrance to Autobot City to the west.

Arcee walks through the sliding doors to the Mausoleum.

Firestar says, "Who are we lookin for?"

Hot Rod shrugs and takes off into the command center.

Trailbreaker smirks, "Hi everyone."

You move east to the Command Center...

AC Command Center

Contents: Ultra Magnus, Optimus Prime

Hot Rod darts through the doors, skidding a bit.

Ultra Magnus turns towards the door from where he's sitting. "I imagine Hot Rod or Kup would know more about the actions of the Decepticons during the last few months in more detail."

Ultra Magnus blinks at Hot Rod's entrance.

Optimus Prime says, "Good. We're going to need all our defenses fortified, here and on Cybertron for the coming actions"

Optimus Prime's back is to the door right now.

You say, "Coming actions? Why, what's up?"

You say, "Sir."

Ultra Magnus says, "I'm interested in that answer myself, Optimus"

Optimus Prime turns, sees Hot Rod, and motions the younger bot to a chair.

Optimus Prime says, "We are going to get the Decepticons off of Cybertron and Earth once and for all. I intend to get a war council together to discuss strategies and options immediately."

Transmission from Firestar: We found her, she's in bad, I'm gettin her to medbay stat.

Hot Rod nods, swings one around and straddles it backwards.

You transmit a message to Firestar: Huh?

Transmission from Firestar: She apparently did something to herself, no time right now.

You transmit a message to Firestar: She who?

Ultra Magnus blinks. "As you say, Optimus.... but how are we going to do that? The last time you were revived there was a truce and they got a foothold on Cybertron."

You say, "You, uhm.. you think we have the firepower to do that?"

Optimus Prime says, "Hot Rod, please explain this non-agression treaty you established with the Decepticons, including reasons and conditions. I need to understand it better before I can do anything."

Ultra Magnus grumbles, "It was part of our good faith."

Optimus Prime receives a radio transmission from Spike.

Optimus Prime says, "The last time I was revived?"

Optimus Prime doesn't seem to remember that.

Optimus Prime transmits a message via radio.

Ultra Magnus says, "You don't remember? Oh dear, perhaps something got lost. It's not terribly important, they just reoccupied Darkmount at that time."

Optimus Prime receives a radio transmission.

Trailbreaker enters from the Main Lobby - First Floor to the west.

You say, "Treaty? Oh, you mean the agreement during that whole planetoid incident.. Well, Cyclonus and I figured we wouldn't be able to beat the thing unless we worked together, so.."

Hot Rod looks over at Magnus. "That wasn't him, remember? That was the Quintessons pretending to be him. Wasn't it?"

Trailbreaker walks in pretty quickly for his normal self, "More fun news to report."

Optimus Prime transmits a message via radio.

Optimus Prime turns to Trailbreaker. "Report."

Ultra Magnus says, "It was his body, he should remember everything. I know I do from when they did something like that to me."

Optimus Prime receives a radio transmission.

Trailbreaker says, "Its just what Spike told you, Optimus. "She was either attacked, or she turned herself off...as a way to put it...""

Hot Rod mutters to Ultra Magnus, "But... isn't the... It's a new body with... downloaded from... So there's... in there."

You whisper "But this isn't the same body. It's a new body with memories downloaded from the Matrix. So there's nothing about that in there." to Ultra Magnus.

Ultra Magnus mutters to Hot Rod, "I... you... the... databanks..."

Ultra Magnus whispers "I thought you transferred all the memories from the old body's databanks as well?"

Optimus Prime frowns through his faceplate. He quickly stands up and heads out of the command center without a word

Optimus Prime leaves to the Main Lobby - First Floor to the west.

Hot Rod shakes his head at Magnus.

Ultra Magnus says, "Trailbreaker, who is she?"

You say, "WHO?"

You say, "Firestar was radioing me, too."

Trailbreaker says, "Dreamflight."

Ultra Magnus stands up, "Okay, next time you try this ressurrection treatment I will pay closer attention to what is and isn't transferred. Right now, we have to go see about Dreamflight. She signed off of her global report with farewell."

Trailbreaker says, "We need a peer counseling division, ya know? She almost flopped over when she tried to go into orbit not too long ago..."

Ultra Magnus says, "I for one want to verify if that was just her way of saying bye or not."

Hot Rod frowns. "But why would she..? Oh hell. It's Dreamflight. She doesn't NEED a reason."

Ultra Magnus leaves to the Main Lobby - First Floor to the west.

Hot Rod swings out of his seat and heads after Magnus, grumbling.

You move west to the Main Lobby - First Floor...

You move south to the Repair Bay...

Repair Bay

Contents: Ultra Magnus, Optimus Prime, Dreamflight, Firestone, Eject, Spike, Firestar, Arcee

Ultra Magnus comes in and hugs the back wall

Firestar scans the throat, "I'M TRYING!"

Spike goes to assist.."Dont you leave us Dreamflight..

Spike says, "Tell me what to do Fire."

Firestar says, "Get the stasis field set up, just in case, oh Primus this is not good..."

Dreamflight is not responding to the work on her...

Optimus Prime stands in the middle of the room managing to look a bit impatient that he can't do anything.

Firestar says, "Get me the energon feed, I'm going to try a tracheometry!"

Firestone says, "Right, status field up."

Hot Rod mutters to Arcee, "What'd she..."

You whisper "What'd she do?" to Arcee.

Spike says, "Energon feed at your disposal."

Firestone does the nurse thing.

Firestone gets the stasis field ready...

Eject stands along aa wall too, hanging his head.

Arcee shrugs to Hot Rod. "I just found her in the Mauseleum when Spike said he was looking for her..."

Spike says, "Optimus..if you can find Swoop..he needs to be here.."

Ultra Magnus says, "Dreamflight, you have to try to make it, you can't give up."

Firestar jams the energon feed into the neck lines, feeding it directly to the pump and net, scanning the monitors quickly.

Trailbreaker enters from the Main Lobby - First Floor to the north.

Twin Twist enters from the Main Lobby - First Floor to the north.

Spike says, "Who's gonna help me watch out for Daniel..Come on Dreamflight..don't leave us."

Optimus Prime turns at Spike's words, and leaves the room

Optimus Prime leaves to the Main Lobby - First Floor to the north.

Trailbreaker follows Optimus for a minute.

Trailbreaker leaves to the Main Lobby - First Floor to the north.

Spike shakes his head.."Getting no response.."

Firestar says, "No you don't..."

Firestar starts a jumpstart.

Firestar collapses down and transforms into a red hovertruck.

HoverTruck opens up her cable box, "Hook up the lines..."

Spike grabs the lines and hooks them up, quickly but carefully..

HoverTruck says, "Stand clear!"

Spike backs off.

HoverTruck fires up and causes an electrical spark to leap into Dreamflights body.

Dreamflight jerks involuntarily... but does not revive.

Firestone says, "Ohboy."

HoverTruck says, "Trying again...clear!!"

HoverTruck fires off another blast.

Dreamflight, again, jerks... but still nothing.

Firestone says, "Why don't we just turn her off?"

HoverTruck says, "One more time.....clear!"

Spike nods..and prays.

HoverTruck fires off another blast.

Spike receives a radio transmission.

Dreamflight still does not respond...

HoverTruck fires off another blast.

Spike transmits a message via radio to Optimus Prime.

Firestar transforms from her hovertruck mode back into her medic form.

Firestar says, "She's...gone..."

Spike unsuccessful

Optimus Prime enters from the Main Lobby - First Floor to the north.

Spike says, "Gone?"

Spike clutches the table, holding back the tears..

Firestar mutters softly, "We can bring back Optimus...but not this one..."

Firestar damns herself.

Firestone says, "Geez. Why?"

Eject walks out of the repair bay, hanging his head.

Spike says, "No Firestar. All of this..all of it..likes on my head."

Eject leaves to the Main Lobby - First Floor to the north.

Spike says, "I am to blame for everything."

Hot Rod scowls to himself and slips out of the room.

Firestar says, "No, Spike, it doesn't..."

Ultra Magnus says, "Very well.... have a place in the mausoleum prepared for her interrment and schedule a memorial service. There is nothing else we can do"

You move north to the Main Lobby - First Floor...

Main Lobby - First Floor

Double-Take enters from the Command Center to the east.

Trailbreaker enters from the Command Center to the east.

Double-Take says, "Hey Ro... oops, sorry, Hot Rod, what's going down in the repair bay?"

Hot Rod mutters, "Dreamflight's dead."

Double-Take says, "She died?"

Firestar enters from the Repair Bay to the south.

Double-Take ulps, and looks quite suprised.

Hot Rod stares hard at the wall and doesn't elaborate.

Double-Take sighs sadly, saying little if anything at all.

Trailbreaker sighs, "One more for the Mausoleum."

Firestar slams a fist into the wall, cussing loudly.

Optimus Prime enters from the Repair Bay to the south.

Optimus Prime leaves to the Command Center to the east.

Hot Rod frowns and follows Optimus.

You move east to the Command Center...

AC Command Center

Contents: Optimus Prime

Hot Rod remains in the doorway quietly, on the verge of saying something but keeping his mouth shut for the moment, watching.

Optimus Prime looks up. "She had a report that said she was atoning for bringing me back to life. I am not sure I understand that."

HoverTruck enters from the Main Lobby - First Floor to the west.

You say, "I don't either. I guess she-- oh hell, I don't know. She's never been the most stable of personalities.."

Ultra Magnus enters from the Main Lobby - First Floor to the west.

HoverTruck stops and puts in reverse, "Sorry, wrong way...." She stops short when she hears Rod say that, "Oh great, she killed herself cause she was unstable, great eulogy there Rod..."

Double-Take enters from the Main Lobby - First Floor to the west.

Ultra Magnus says, "Firestar, don't run off yet."

Double-Take cautiously comes through the main door.

HoverTruck stops in front of Magnus, "What?"

Ultra Magnus says, "I said don't run off yet. You were planning to leave Autobot City when I made my way out of the repair bay."

You say, "Well, what do you want me to say, Firestar? That she committed suicide for good and rational reasons?"

HoverTruck says, "Yah? So whats your point, Magnus...she was more rational than the rest of us Rod..."

You say, "Oh, killing yourself is REAL rational."

Trailbreaker enters from the Main Lobby - First Floor to the west.

Winged Raptor enters from the Main Lobby - First Floor to the west.

HoverTruck snaps off without thinking, "And bringing back the dead is?!?!"

Double-Take says nothing, knowing that his opinion will probably only get him yelled at.

Ultra Magnus says, "I just wanted to make sure you weren't running off to blame yourself."

Winged Raptor follows Trailbreaker, wondering what is going on in here.

Optimus Prime merely watches the onsuing conversations with only a hint of an expression on his face.

HoverTruck quiets down, "It is my fault Magnus..."

Optimus Prime says, "Why can you not bring her "back to life"?"

Firestar transforms from her hovertruck mode back into her medic form.

Hot Rod snaps back, "Well, at least it's a step UP!"

Firestar snaps off at Optimus, "For the same damn reason we cant bring back Prowl, Ironhide, or Ratchet!"

Ultra Magnus says, "Firestar, if anyone's fault it is mine, but we are not discussing fault. We will have to get beyond that to go on."

With a slight shifting and retraction of panels Syke transforms into her angelic mode.

Double-Take says, "Because the reason you're alive now is because you were stored in the matrix."

Hot Rod catches himself and stares at the floor for several moments. "Guys, this is getting out of hand..."

Firestar says, "Because you were inside that damnable Matrix, it was that simple..."

Trailbreaker says, "Firestar, I think maybe you should go out and count to 10 before you say anything else..."

Optimus Prime says, "So because you do not have the memories of the others, you cannot reanimate them? Have Dreamflight's meory circuits been damaged?"

Optimus Prime actually sounds genuinely curious.

Double-Take says, "I'm afraid it's not that simple Prime."

Double-Take says, "There's something... MORE to Transformer life... it's not the sum of it's parts."

Hot Rod jumps and starts to look at Double-Take, then looks away again, quickly.

Double-Take doesn't notice, trying to explain it to Optimus.

Firestar says, "He's right, we cant bring her back, Optimus, for the pure simple fact that she made it her wish not to be brought back."

Optimus Prime simply says, "I see." in a normal, ordinary tone.

You say, "I don't think it's just memories, anyway, really. If that were true we could've just popped a data-chip into your head and it would've worked. The Matrix is something else.. oh, why am I telling you this. You know."

Firestar says, "Obviously he doesn't know..."

Ultra Magnus says, "From a purely objective standpoint, she made it quite impossible to bring her back. Her neural net was probably destroyed from inside by the system failure. She was a medic, the knowledge to heal gave her the knowledge to end it forever."

Double-Take seems a little suprised at the issue Hot Rod pointed out, and even more suprised when he realizes Firestar's right about it.

Optimus Prime nods to Hot Rod in agreement with what the young bot said. What he's nodding in agreement with, you're not quite sure

Ultra Magnus says, "As I have said, we should schedule a memorial service and finish things correctly. We cannot bring her back, but we can send her off properly."

Ultra Magnus looks as if he expects to get yelled at by Firestar or Hot Rod or both at any moment.

Firestar steps out, quiet.

Firestar leaves to the Main Lobby - First Floor to the west.

Optimus Prime nods to Ultra Magnus. "Would you mind taking care of the details, Ultra Magnus?

Ultra Magnus says, "I would have to discuss it with Spike and perhaps Sky Lynx beforehand. I would rather her closest friends do such a thing."

Double-Take sighs, and leaves.

Double-Take leaves to the Main Lobby - First Floor to the west.

Optimus Prime nods in agreement with Ultra Magnus.

Hot Rod sighs softly to himself and keeps his mouth shut.

Optimus Prime says, "We still have important matters to discuss. Trailbreaker, if you would excuse us.."

Ultra Magnus doesn't say anything, but wonders what Optimus could have to discuss that Trailbreaker shouldn't hear.

Trailbreaker smirks, "Oh I get it. I'm not in the secret society. I can take a hint."

Trailbreaker grins to lighten the mood, and exits stage right.

Trailbreaker leaves to the Main Lobby - First Floor to the west.

Hot Rod twitches uncertainly, then stays put.

Optimus Prime says, "Hot Rod, have a seat. Please finish explaining the terms of the non-aggression pact."

Optimus Prime doesn't seem too fazed by the fact that someone just died.

Hot Rod slowly eases himself onto the edge of a chair. "Well.. that's about it, really. We agreed to work together to get rid of the planetoid. The risk's gone now; the Decepticons called it off."

Optimus Prime says, "So there is no non-aggression pact currently in effect?"

Ultra Magnus says, "They attacked Japan only two days ago, I'd say that if there was it would have dissolved right there since we interposed ourselves between them and the humans"

Hot Rod shakes his head. "No.. yeah, what he said. They've certainly broken it enough times even if there were still an agreement."

Firestone enters from the Main Lobby - First Floor to the west.

Firestone peers in.

Ultra Magnus looks over, "Yes, Firestone?"

Optimus Prime nods. "Good. Ultra Magnus, I would like for you to give me a list of people that you would recommend for a war council as soon as you can. I need people with experience."

Optimus Prime glances back and sees Firestone.

Ultra Magnus thinks carefully for a few moments and begins to rattle off names, "Kup, Elita-One, Firestar, Sky Lynx, Scattershot, Silverbolt, Hot Rod, Jazz and Caern."

Hot Rod jumps.

Ultra Magnus says, "The only problems are Sky Lynx is sometimes stubborn at the same time as being egotistical. It might be hard to get a discussed decision past him, then again if he's in the right mood he might invent the entire strategy you need."

Hot Rod mutters, "Well, that and he's missing.."

Ultra Magnus looks at Hot Rod, "What were the circumstances of that again?"

Optimus Prime says, "Missing? Explain."

Hot Rod shrugs. "I.. don't know. He just hasn't reported in for a while. Since we moved Cybertron. I don't know what happened to him; we can't contact him."

Optimus Prime looks at you both for a moment, then shakes his head. "If there is a small group of Autobots who can go looking for him without leaving us too shorthanded, then I would recommend we have them look for him. Otherwise, we must prepare to push the Decepticons off Earth and Cybertron."

Hot Rod shrugs. "It's up to you. If he doesn't *want* to be found, there's not much we can do. He can take care of himself at any rate. But he would be a big help if we could track him down."

Ultra Magnus shrugs.

Optimus Prime says, "I will contact the people you have suggested Ultra Magnus and hopefully, we can hold our first planning session soon. In the meantime, as I said before, we need to fortify Iacon and Metroplex. How are the Ark's defenses?"

Ultra Magnus blinks, "Oh that's right. Optimus, we don't use the Ark anymore. I think it was a museum for humans at one time, but now it's just abandoned."

Hot Rod nods.

Ultra Magnus says, "Everything but Teletran 1 and some basic computer run defenses were stripped years ago"

You say, "Uh, actually.."

Side Kick enters from the Main Lobby - First Floor to the west.

Side Kick stares for a moment, before realizing he's doing it.

Side Kick looks at OP.

Optimus Prime looks back and forth from Ultra Magnus to Hot Rod

You say, "We holed up there during the Cosmic Rust outbreak." A pause. "Uhm.. T-1's gone. Someone gouged it out of the wall and stole it or something."

Optimus Prime says, "Did it have any vital information in it?"

Side Kick stands quietly, watching Prime.

Hot Rod shakes his head. "I don't think so. Just old records, nothing up-to-date. All the pertinent information was moved here."

Side Kick walks over to Magnus.

Optimus Prime nods in acknowledgeement then notices Side Kick

Side Kick looks at Prime.

Side Kick grins.

Side Kick manages to eke out something slowly, "Hello, sir."

Side Kick says, "It's...neat to have you back sir."

Optimus Prime says, "Hello. It is good to be back."

Side Kick get more comfortable with his tone.

Side Kick says, "I take it you're back in command?"

Hot Rod shifts quietly in his seat.

Side Kick says, "I'm sorry, am I interrupting here?"

Optimus Prime says, "Yes, Side Kick, I am currently in charge. And currently we are discussing policy. Is there something I can help you with?"

Side Kick says, "Um...no. *SK grins sheepishly* I'll be quiet."

Side Kick moves a little behind Magnus to look insignifigant.

Optimus Prime says, "That is all, I have for you right now Ultra Magnus. I need to discuss something with Hot Rod for a few moments, unless you have anything to add."

Hot Rod looks up startledly.

Ultra Magnus says, "No. If there is anything let me know."

Ultra Magnus stands up and walks out

Side Kick blinks.

Ultra Magnus leaves to the Main Lobby - First Floor to the west.

Optimus Prime gets up and motions Hot Rod into the meeting room.

Hot Rod swallows uncertainly and pushes himself out of his seat, following Optimus.

Optimus Prime leaves to the Meeting Room to the north.

You move north to the Meeting Room...

Meeting Room A large rectangular table sits squarely in the middle of the room, with chairs large enough to fit your average Cybertronian situated around it. A holoviewer sits in the middle of the table, currently displaying the Autobot symbol. The walls are wood-paneled and arranged on them are various pictures of Cybertron in the Golden Age.

Contents: Optimus Prime

Hot Rod slips in the door and leans back against the wall. "What is it?"

Optimus Prime turns around and faces you. "Actually, I wanted to speak to you about your rank."

Optimus Prime says, "Teletran 2 seems to have re-established you as a rank 1 solidier."

Firestone enters from the Command Center to the south.

Firestone peers in.

You say, "Err, well.. yeah. That's how I was listed before--"

Hot Rod breaks off, looking over at Firestone.

Optimus Prime looks over at Firestone. "If you do not mind, Firestone, I would like to speak to Hot Rod in private."

Firestone says, "I was wondering if you wanted a sitrep on the Femmes, sir."

Optimus Prime says, "I will shortly. Thank you"

Firestone says, "Kay."

Firestone leaves to the Command Center to the south.

Optimus Prime turns back to Hot Rod and waits for him to continue his commentary.

Hot Rod shifts his weight, unfreezing once Firestone leaves. He shrugs. "That's just how it went. Grunt to commander." He attempts a weak smile.

Optimus Prime says, "I mean no offense, Hot Rod, but the situation with the Decepticons is dire and I cannot have a war council with someone that is only rank 1 on it. I need experienced officers on it that can command other Autobots, not someone who's only funciton is to obey orders."

Hot Rod shrugs. "If you feel that way. I might be able to offer something in the way of information, but I guess I can just stay out of it..."

Optimus Prime says, "Actually, I have no intentions of keeping you out of it."

You say, "Err. What?"

Optimus Prime says, "You are being promoted to a Team Leader, rank 4."

Hot Rod's face falls. "But.."

Optimus Prime says, "I need people with good strategy/tactics skills and command experience. You have both."

Hot Rod sighs. "Yes sir."

You say, "But I really don't think I'd be that useful coming up with combat strategy.."

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===================== Autobot ==============================

Message: 3/26 Posted Author

Promotions Wed Oct 02 Optimus Prime

Optimus Prime appears on the screen. "I would like to advise you all of some recent promotions that have occured. Due to Whiz's devotion above and beyond the call of duty, Rodimus Prime promoted her to Field Officer, rank 3 before he handed me the Matrix. Also, I have promoted Caern, Firestar and Hot Rod to the rank of Team Leader's, rank 4, for their devotion to duty, good records, and the necessity of their current assignments requiring such a rank. Please congratulate them on these promotions and obey them with the same respect you give other Autobots of the same rank.

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Optimus Prime says, "You underestimate your skills, Hot Rod. Also, you have a different perspective on things than Ultra Magnus and the others that will be on the council. I will need that perspective in order to come up with an effective method of combating the Decepticon Threat."

You say, "What perspective?"

Optimus Prime says, "There is no one here who will know Galvatron better than you do."

Transmission from Trailbreaker: Congrats, Hot Rod.

Hot Rod frowns. "I guess so," torn between resignation and a nagging, almost guilty sense of relief.

Hot Rod frowns at his radio.

Optimus Prime says, "Is something wrong?"

Hot Rod grumbles, "Trailbreaker offering his congratulations."

Optimus Prime says, "Ahh."

Optimus Prime says, "I will be calling a meeting of this council soon. Any information you can give me on the projects you had underway as Rodimus would be appreciated before that time."

Hot Rod flinches slightly at the name. "Uhm.. nothing major I can think of offhand.."

Optimus Prime says, "Then there will be nothing to interfere with our getting rid of the Decepticons."

Hot Rod says hollowly, "Yeah, no problem."

You say, "You really think we have the firepower to pull it off?"

Optimus Prime says, "That is what we are going to find out."

Optimus Prime starts pacing the room, more because it seems something to do than for any real reason.

Optimus Prime says, "I wish to determine from this meeting how effectively we can combat the Decepticons and protect the humans."

Hot Rod stands quietly against the wall, listening.

Optimus Prime stops pacing and turns to you. "I would like you to help me coordinate this meeting and anything that might come out of it."

Hot Rod frowns. "It could go either way. The Decepticons are notorious for taking hostages, but then again the EDC's come up with several tech advancements the past few years that'll help."

You say, "Err.. coordinate it?"

Optimus Prime nods. "Tomorrow I plan on going to Cybertron and check the status of Iacon. I wish for you to talk to all the involved parties on the list Ultra Magnus gave us to make sure if they can make it."

Optimus Prime says, "You understand what we are striving for, you can make sure they are adequately prepared to discuss what resources we have for this war and what possible strategies we can us."

Hot Rod nods slowly. "Okay, I'll try."

Optimus Prime says, "I have confidence you will do an effective job, Hot Rod."

Hot Rod sighs. "If you say so.."

Hot Rod mutters to himself.

You mutter to yourself, "Never thought that before.."

Optimus Prime says, "Now, if you will excuse me, Elita has asked that I talk to Arcee."

Hot Rod blurts, "About what?"

Hot Rod catches himself. "Sorry, none of my business."

Hot Rod studies the wall.

Optimus Prime cocks his head in an odd fashion that is almost un-Primelike. "Apparently, Elita has told her that she is our daughter and wishes me to discuss the situation with her."

Optimus Prime uncocks his head.

You say, "Well, isn't she?"

Optimus Prime says, "Yes."

Hot Rod looks up cautiously, "Cause that's what she told m-- oh."

Optimus Prime says, "Before my death, Elita and I had agreed not to tell her. However, now she knows."

You say, "Why not?"

You say, "..If you don't mind my asking."

Optimus Prime opens his mouth to answer, shuts it with a puzled look in his optics then shakes it. "I do not recall."

Hot Rod looks mildly concerned but covers it. "I guess gaps would be expected.."

Optimus Prime replies in an odd voice. "Yes, I suppose they would be."

You say, "You're okay, aren't you?"

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====================== Rumors ============================ Message: 8/5 Posted Author

Optimus & Elita? Wed Oct 02 Anonymous

You will NEVER guess what I just heard! About Optimus and Elita, that is. HEY! I'm not joking, this is hot stuff! Rumor has it that Elita has put Optimus on her #1 HIT LIST. She's hired out contractors to take him down because he dumped her about 4 million years ago to go to Earth. He's been ignoring her EVER SINCE! talk about scorning a woman.. BOY is she FURIOUS. Better watch out, Primester. You're toast if she manages to catch up to you!

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====================== Rumors =============================

Message: 8/6 Posted Author

Me and Him Wed Oct 02 Elita-One

Too late. I have him. In a locked room. Alone.

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Optimus Prime nods. "I am fine. Thank you for asking."

Hot Rod smiles weakly, "Seems that's all anyone's been saying lately. "You okay?""

Optimus Prime says, "You have enjoyed your time as a normal Autobot?"

Hot Rod frowns and looks away. "You saw my post.."

Optimus Prime nods. "But I am asking you, not the computer report. I wish to make sure my return has not caused any difficult situations."

Hot Rod shakes his head adamantly. "It's not you. It's me."

Optimus Prime puts a supportive hand on your shoulder. "If you need to talk, I am willing to listen and advise. Anytime."

Hot Rod exhales softly, shuddering. "I just didn't expect them to all desert me. People I thought were my friends.."

Optimus Prime says, "They will come to understand your decision. It will simply take them time."

You say, "Y'know, Magnus told me I--" he breaks off, glancing up at you uncertainly, then shakes his head. "..that I was a disappointment to him. To everybody. Even Arcee's mad at me.."

Hot Rod says sourly, "No, correct that. She's not mad at me, she just won't talk to me."

Optimus Prime says, "Perhaps I can say something to her when I talk to her."

Hot Rod sighs. "If she won't listen to me...well, I guess you of all people.."

Hot Rod shrugs unhappily. "She said it wouldn't matter."

Optimus Prime says, "New situations take some getting used to. I had similar problems when I first took command of the Autobots."

You say, "What happened?"

You hear a knock on the door from AC Command Center.

Optimus Prime says, "I had to form a new army from scratch and had many difficulties convincing the leaders of the other Autobot resistance groups that we needed to band together for our own safety. Many people did not trust me. Many people died. I was going to quit, but a dear friend managed to convince me not to walk away from it."

Optimus Prime receives a radio transmission.

Optimus Prime transmits a message via radio.

Hot Rod ventures, "..who?"

Optimus Prime says, "Alpha Trion."

Optimus Prime receives a radio transmission from Lynn.

Hot Rod falls thoughtfully quiet.

Optimus Prime says, "Mosaic and Lynn wish to come in and talk. Do you mind?"

Hot Rod shakes his head. "Nah."

Optimus Prime transmits a message via radio to Lynn.

Lynn enters from the Command Center to the south.

Lynn transmits a message via radio.

Mosaic enters from the Command Center to the south.

Mosaic stands at attention, then her optics seem to widen.

Optimus Prime nods a greeting to the two new arrivals.

Hot Rod slides away from the wall by the door and takes a seat at the opposite side of the table, trying to make himself small.

Mosaic seems speechless at the sight of Optimus Prime. This is the first time she has ever met him.

Lynn says, "I'd been looking for Dreamflight -- I'm afraid she might do something crazy..."

Lynn looks very concerned.

Optimus Prime looks down at the small human. "My apologies. You will not find her. She is no longer functional."

Mosaic says, "Wh..what?!"

Lynn goes white. Her mouth opens and closes, without a sound...

Mosaic takes a step back.

Hot Rod says quietly from his own personal sphere of space, "She killed herself. We couldn't save her."

Lynn suddenly snaps out, "Is this your idea of a sick joke?!?"

Optimus Prime says, "I do not understand."

You say, "Lynn, why would we joke about something like that?"

Mosaic says, "Lynn....they wouldn't make that up..unfortunately."

Lynn trembles with rage.

Mosaic says, "When did this happen?"

Lynn says, "Who DID this???" Optimus Prime says, "She wished to atone for a decision she had little to do with. It does not make sense, but it did happen. Earlier today. The medics were unable to revive her."

You say, "Earlier tonight. I think Arcee found her.. Firestar and the others tried to revive her but she just.. wouldn't."

Mosaic says, "She...NO! She wouldn't..."

Lynn slams her fists down onto the hoverchair armor.

You say, "I don't understand it either."

Optimus Prime sits down heavily in a chair.

Mosaic says, "Now hold on"

Mosaic backs up and runs out whispering "I'm sorry..."

Mosaic leaves to the Command Center to the south.

Lynn 'paces' -- maneuvering the chair back and forth...

Lynn says, "I was supposed to BE there! I was supposed to STOP this!!!"

Lynn lets out a cry of mingled pain and rage, and rushes out.

Lynn leaves to the Command Center to the south.

Optimus Prime gets back to his feet, looking a bit worn. "Forgive me. I have not recharged in some time. I should get some energon." 

Optimus Prime looks at you with a bland expression and merely says, "Of course you can." as if was a fact of nature

Optimus Prime slowly moves out of the meeting room.

Hot Rod's smile leeches away. "Yeah.. uhm.. yeah."

Optimus Prime leaves to the Command Center to the south.

You move south to the Command Center...

You move west to the Main Lobby - First Floor...

Main Lobby - First Floor

Contents: Firestone, Whiz

Whiz hrrmphs. "So, you're back."

Hot Rod brightens somewhat seeing Whiz. "And I rank you again."

Whiz says, "Barely."

You say, "Hey, don't forget who GAVE you that commission."

Whiz says, "Some guy named Rodimus Prime, if I've heard correctly."

Whiz smirks.

An odd flicker of emotion crosses Hot Rod's face but he manages to take the comment in stride. "Yeah. Must've been a real loser if he thought you were worth it."

Whiz says, "You wouldn't believe what NightThunder and I went through trying to make sure you were okay last night. And when I finally broke into the computer and got the satellite feeds, you were sitting there with that stupid ball again."

You say, "I TOLD you I was fine."

Whiz sighs. "Yeah, and I was supposed to believe you?"

You say, "Uh, yeah." Krystal has arrived.

Whiz says, "You haven't been fine since this whole thing started. Why should I think you'd started then? Besides, *somebody* has to look out for you."

Firestone says, "Everyone ranks me. So I ignore it. Sometimes it works."

You say, "Okay, not fine then. Not in danger."

Krystal whoas.

Whiz heh heh hehs. "Now that he's in reach, we can grab him and hug him all we want. Like a great big stuffed animal."

Krystal smirks.

Hot Rod umms, "Don't make me defend myself."

Whiz holds up two fingers in what looks like a pinching position. "Yeah? don't make me use *these*."

Hot Rod protests, "I'm not cute! Why does everyone keep saying I'm cute?"

Whiz grins, "Maybe because you were so ugly as Rodimus?"

Hot Rod's face falls. "I was NOT."

Krystal's jaw drops mockingly at Whiz.

Whiz nods solemnly to Krystal. "Someone had to tell him, Krys."

Whiz says, "I was willing to make that sacrifice."

You say, "Just cause I -- he -- looked *older*.."

Krystal arches an eyebrow, then nods as she glances away with a sigh. "Well, you could have been a little well, nicer...."

Sidearm enters from the Command Center to the east.

Firestone says, "Hey."

Firestone looks down.

Sidearm smiles kindly to the group, being her calm usual self. "Greetings, everyone. How are all of you?"

Whiz makes a very apologetic face toward Hot Rod. "Sorry you had to find out this way."

Hot Rod scowls at Whiz. "Wait, I get it. This is that reverse psychology thing, isn't it?"

Sidearm glances around for responses. "Oh, Hot Rod...congratulations on your promotion...again...much less than that last one though." She softly smiles.

Whiz says, "No, it's just good old fashioned taunting."

Whiz says, "I'm much too tactless for psychology."

Firestone says, "We lost Dreamflight., Sidearm."

You say, "Good point."

Whiz frowns a little bit at Firestone. "You never did explain that to me."

Hot Rod says tactlessly, "She killed herself."

Krystal blinks, startled. "Hot Rod!"

Hot Rod looks at Krystal. "What?"

Whiz says, "Er.. that wasn't what I was confused about... I kinda wondered why?"

Sidearm says, "Dreamflight commited suicide?"

Sidearm looks a little surprised.

Hot Rod shrugs. "She was always kind of unstable.."

Whiz jabs Hot Rod with an elbow for complete lack of tact.

Whiz succeeds in grasping Hot Rod, throwing him off-balance.

Sidearm hmms. "I wouldn't say unstable...a little emotional though.."

Hot Rod ows and rubs his side.

Whiz says, "Is that what that note was about?"

You say, "I guess so."

Whiz's face loses what color it has.

Krystal glances at Hot Rod, studying him.

Sidearm pulls out a data pad and starts drawing up plans for her rifle mode, she thumbs through some specs and designs.

Whiz clutches herself and shudders.

You say, "Whiz?"

Whiz looks a little pained. "Nothing. The idea of suicide doesn't agree with me very well. Especially over.. that."

Hot Rod says blithely, "Yeah, I know. I mean, if you're gonna kill yourself, at least come up with a real reason.."

Sidearm says, "I don't understand..."

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===================== Autobot ==============================

Message: 3/23 Posted Author

A Public Apology Wed Oct 02 Dreamflight

I know that the resurrection of Optimus has caused a great amount of strife in our ranks. I therefore take full responsibility for that... I only hope that this action is sufficient atonement. Farewell.

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Krystal clears her throat and shoots a reprimanding glance at Roddy.

Whiz's face twists.

Hot Rod shrugs.

Whiz says, "Why did she feel that was the solution? Killing herself wouldn't change the tension around here, and it wasn't even her fault..."

Whiz's voice gets harsh when she says, 'fault'.

Sidearm studies Hot Rod for a moment. "I have to admit, I was a little disapointed that you were promoted quickly, but then I did once suggest you be given a small amount of responsibility. I was looking forward to treating you as a total equal rank wise." she smiles faintly.

Sidearm studies Hot Rod. "Don't blame anyone, she was depressed and ended her life before anyone could even try to resolve it. I think she was hoping it would either knock sense into people or make everyone feel bad that she did this for whatever reason. I can't imagine her being that depressed with so many who cared about her..."

Hot Rod says entirely inappropriately, "Shrinks don't cost THAT much, either.."

Whiz says unhappily, "Everybody seems to be too busy feeling sorry for themselves to think about everyone else."

Whiz glares at Hot Rod after that comment. "*Some* people in particular."

Hot Rod glances at Whiz and shuts up, mollified.

Sidearm says, "Hot Rod, counselors only charge time around here if one needs it. Not that I would, personally, but I could think of a few short little reddish orange bots who might need to see one."

Krystal bites her tongue.

Hot Rod glares evenly at Sidearm.

Sidearm glances at Hot Rod calmly. "Just an opinion."

Whiz grins at Sidearm.

Hot Rod shrugs. "Yeah, probably, only no one'll listen to me."

Whiz says, "Here we go again."

Nightshift has connected.

Whiz says, "You know, I really am going to stop listening to you, for all the credit I get."

Sidearm says, "Did you say something, Hot Rod?"

Nightshift walks in. "W'sup, y'all.

You say, "Sorry, Whiz."

Whiz hmphs.

Sidearm's attention focuses on Nightshift. "Hello there, Nightshift..."

Sidearm walks over slowly. She mutters to Nightshift.

Sidearm glances at Hot Rod a little seriously. "I listen, you can talk to me if you needed to." She then glances at Nightshift and nods. "Where to?"

Nightshift says, "Don't matter."

Whiz thumps her chest in mock salute. "Proud member of the 'Nobodies Who Listen To Rod' Club, at your service."

Krystal folds her arms across her chest.

Sidearm mutters to Nightshift, "... to... command..."

Nightshift nods.

Nightshift leaves to the Command Center to the east.

Sidearm walks off slowly, she glances at Hot Rod for a moment and then continues on her way.

Sidearm leaves to the Command Center to the east.

Hot Rod sighs. "I'm not TRYING to get everyone to hate me, really.."

Whiz says, "Maybe if we work together we can accomplish it."

Hot Rod smiles a bit. "What, get everyone to hate me?"

Krystal leaves to the Human Lounge to the northeast.

Whiz grins, "At least it's a realistic goal."

Hot Rod sighs melodramatically.

Whiz says, "You sure can clear out a room."

You say, "Yeah, it's a gift."

Whiz chuckles, then goes serious again. "You could have been a little more respectful about Dreamflight. She did help you on that project willingly, you know."

Hot Rod frowns unhappily. "I know. I just.. I hate to think that something I worked so hard on could turn out so badly that she thought she had to commit suicide."

Whiz nods thoughtfully. "I was afraid that's what it was."

Hot Rod smirks dryly, "Avoidance. Another of the great Hot Rod talents."

Whiz says, "Legendary, even."

Whiz says, "Speaking of which, I must inform you that you haven't been living up to the legend. I've had complaints."

You say, "Complaints?"

Whiz yups. "Not what we've expected, I'm afraid. going to have to improve.

You say, "We who? Improve what?"

Whiz says, "You know, being more interesting. you're supposed to be fun to be around. Cocky, self-satisfied, rebellious... all that stuff."

Whiz grins. "More like me."

Hot Rod hehs, "I don't think I *can* anymore. Have this annoying thing called a sense of perspective."

Whiz whips out a laser scalpel. "I can take care of that. I specialize in perspective-piercing and conscience-ectomies."

Hot Rod blinks and steps away. "Don't TOUCH my head."

Whiz says, "Doesn't hurt. See, I'm fine."

You say, "Uh-huh."

Hot Rod hehs dryly, "Maybe I SHOULD get part of my main memory blocked off.. probably make me feel a lot better."

Whiz mutters something about "remote control" and "soon the world will be mine."

You say, "Huh?"

Whiz looks up and grins. "Oh, nothing. Just planning your surgery."

Hot Rod eases into a slightly more natural smile. "In your dreams."

Whiz says, "You flatter yourself. Only my nightmares involve you."

Hot Rod claps his hands to his chest. "Ahh! Shot through the fuel pump! Whiz, you wound me."

Tripwire enters from the Entrance to Autobot City to the west.

Whiz puts up her finger like a smoking-gun and puffs on it with smug satisfaction.

Tripwire grins as he walks in.

Tripwire says gruffly, "Hey, Hot Rod! Nice ta see you!"

You say, "Y'know, I could swoon at this point but I think that's been done before."

You say, "Uhm.. hi..."

Tripwire scratches his chin.

Tripwire says gruffly, "Y'know, you're a lot less threatening like this."

Whiz says, "Cause he's short."

Whiz grins.

Tripwire says gruffly, "Yeah, that must be in."

Tripwire grins

Hot Rod hmphs. "Height's everything with some people, yeesh."

Whiz says, "And there's a lot less of you to be diplomatic."

You say, "So maybe you should be thankful I don't get diplomatic on your chassis."

Whiz puts up her hands. "Yeah, come and try it. As if."

Tripwire grins, and toys with a grenade.

Whiz evades your grasp attack.

Whiz ducks away. "Too slow..."

Hot Rod swipes at Whiz's hand and tries to look like he meant to do that.

Tripwire says gruffly, "Real hot stuff now, eh?"

Whiz says, "Still compensating for that loss of height?"

Hot Rod grrs. "Yes."

Hot Rod succeeds in grasping Whiz, throwing her off-balance.

You say, "But I'm getting better."

Tripwire says gruffly, "Tryin' to anyway, right?"

Whiz yelps.

Hot Rod yanks Whiz in toward him and locks her arm behind her back in a hammerlock.

Whiz says, "Hey! I wasn't ready!"

Whiz jabs backward with an elbow.

You evade Whiz's attempt to grasp you.

Whiz whiffs it and grouches under her breath.

Hot Rod grins and tucks Whiz in tighter. "Who's too slow?"

Whiz says, "Nice going, picking on little girls."

Whiz tries to stomp down on his foot.

Whiz succeeds in grasping Hot Rod, throwing him off-balance.

You say, "Oh, don't pull the innocent routine. You stole that from me."

You say, "Ow!"

Whiz says, "Ha!"

Whiz uses the temporary distraction to try to wiggle away.

Hot Rod lets go and pushes Whiz away slightly, grumbling.

Whiz pbbbbbts.

Hot Rod pbbbbbts back.

Whiz chuckles. "Ah, for a camera..."

Hot Rod grins and back away slightly. "Just don't touch my face."

Whiz says, "Not til after I beat you in that race."

You say, "Oh, YEAH!"

You say, "In your.. nightmares, then."

Hot Rod grins.

Whiz says, "Thought of the prize you will be dreaming of as you lose?"

You say, "Uh, no, not really."

Whiz says, "Just as well, don't want to get your hopes up unnecessarily."

You say, "Uh-huh. Dream on."

Whiz just grins and hops up into the air.

Whiz's body buckles as she folds down into an aerodynamic airskimmer.

Airskimmer says, "Any time you're ready, Punk."

You say, "Not too anxious, are we?"

Airskimmer makes a pathetic attempt to rev her engines, with just a small puff of air as a result.

You say, "Oh, what do you call that, a hiccup?"

Airskimmer grrs.

Airskimmer says, "I'm clean burning, okay? Less engine noise."

You say, "Uh-huh."

Airskimmer makes another heroic attempt to rev, even ends up lifting off of the floor a little, but can't get a decent engine growl.

Gold enters from the Entrance to Autobot City to the west.

Ravenstep enters from the Entrance to Autobot City to the west.

Ravenstep waves.

Ravenstep mutters to Gold, "Watch what... say to... yellow one. He's... of..."

You say, "Oh, that's pitiful."

The airskimmer unfolds into the female Autobot Whiz, who looks around without much interest.

Gold steps in, holding her right arm with her left paw, her right arm twisted grotesquely, burn marks scoring all along her arm, searing away at her fur and skin. Herr left shoulder seemto be about the same as far as burn marks, and a wound bleeds a little as shewalks along. Various other places in her uniform are sliced open, the cut flesh underneath cauterixed and not bleeding.

Whiz flips up and fixes Hot Rod with a petulant frown. "Some of us don't need noise to make our point."

Whiz looks in surprise at Gold and wishes once again that she had some ability to help organic creatures.

You say, "Then why were you trying? --What in Primus' name happened to you?"

Ravenstep says, "Who, me? Oh, I'm just a little cold. I got trapped beneath the water for a while, lots of ice. Brr. But Gold's the one who's hurt."

Whiz says, "Do you need me to call a.. doctor...?"

Gold looks up at Hot Rod, nodding slightly to Ravenstep, "Well, I ran into someone by the name of Nabiki.Someone whom Ravenstep here knows.. she insisted on trying to kill me, so I taught her a lesson that t would take more than her to kill me."

Gold says, "I should be fine if I have my arm set in a splint.. it needs to be straightened out again."

Whiz nods. "I can do that. Let me get a splint for you...

Whiz leaves to the Repair Bay to the south.

Whiz has left.

