Transformers Regenerated: Unicron Saga I, Chapter Eleven and Epilogue

EDITED 12/23/2017 Changed Hotwire to Kiloton. A remnant of a different vision for Regenerated that wasn't as G1 centric (and also since Ask Vector Prime introduced Kiloton as a character whom Megatron was... particularly close to).

CHAPTER ELEVEN

   "... And so it is with that, my fellow Cybertronians, I leave you," Sentinel Prime said. "If anyone has any concerns nagging their spark, speak them now or forever hold your peace."

   Naturally, the crowd erupted into chaos; journalists and news-bots moved to the front, those angered with the Prime flailed their arms meaninglessly, and others merely shouted for the sake of shouting. Lockdown supposed that now as a good time as any for an abrupt end to the clamor.

   Steadying himself, he aimed the sniper rifle directly at Sentinel Prime's head. After taking the time to savor the moment, he pulled the trigger. The sight of the Prime's head exploding was truly a sight worth remembering. The panic of the crowd even more so.

   With a cruel smile of satisfaction, Lockdown stood up and turned to leave... only to have a large fist slam into his face.

   As the mercenary fell, he heard a gruff voice say, "I've got him, sir."

   "Good work, Warpath," a second one said. "Jazz, Landshark, restrain him."

   As two mechs moved to place stasis cuffs and mode locks onto him, Lockdown's vision finally cleared enough for him to see those standing before him. Forefront was the red brute who had hit him, Warpath. To the right was a large blue and red Autobot, whom he recognized as Ultra Magnus, leader of the Elite Guard... but the third one's identity shocked him the most.

   Sentinel Prime, Autobot leader. Whom he had killed barely a minute ago.

   Lockdown stared in bafflement at the tall, regal figure. "I... I killed you!"

   Sentinel Prime smirked, raising an eyebrow. "Did you? I seem to be alive and well, otherwise we wouldn't be speaking. Unless, of course, you have died as well."

   Turning to Ultra Magnus, he said, "Tell Wheeljack that I owe him for inventing those facsimile constructs."

   Grabbing Lockdown by his cuffs, Sentinel Prime dragged the mercenary towards the front of the rooftop they stood on so that the still-panicking crowd could see them both.

   "Fear not, my fellow Cybertronians!" the Prime said. "I have not yet perished. What you saw was merely a decoy, to protect myself from wrongdoers such as this mech here, who was planning to assassinate me!"

   Lockdown looked up at him bemusedly. "How did you-?"

   "Your master has spies," Sentinel murmured. "So do I."

   To the crowd, he said, "As I said earlier, justice shall be delivered. This mercenary shall be given a fair trail and no doubt be proven guilty. Yet again, I assure you that the order of the Golden Age shall be preserved, no matter the cot!"

   Their previous rancor forgotten, the crowd cheered upon their leader. Lockdown almost found it amusing how quick these people changed their moods, depending on the situation. As Ultra Magnus and his men carried him away, the mercenary could not help but smile at the irony of it all.

   That no matter who was in charge or whatever choices they made, Cybertron was forever pron to discord.

*  *  *

   "So the mission went well, I take it?"

   Optronix took a sip from the glass of liquid energon Chief Switch Blade had provided him. "Yes, we've captured several Stunticons who were, one way or another, involved with Momus' assassination. We have yet to capture the culprits Frenzy and Rumble, however."

   "They shall come within our reach eventually." The blue and white Autobot observed the rising sun through his office's window. "Depth Charge was right about you; you are indeed experienced, both in combat and leadership skills."

   Optronix grunted. "At least no one died. Then things would be a bit different."

   Switch Blade turned and frowned at face him. "You are quite perturbed by death, aren't you?" When Optronix did not respond, the chief continued. "I understand that you command a team within the Elite Guard and have led a few others in the past. Have you... lost someone from anyone of those teams?"

   His look a pensive one, Optronix said quietly, "One from each."

   Switch Blade mouth fell agape. "By Primus...."

   Optronix looked up at him. "I led three teams while in the Elite Guard. The first one, when I was stationed in Rodion, my best friend Dion was abducted somewhere in Polyhex. No one's found him since.

   "The second team, when I was serving in Kalis, there was a young 'bot named Zoom. Didn't really know him as well, but he was a good kid... until he rushed headfirst into combat with a rogue Guardian drone and got himself killed."

   "And the third?" Switch Blade asked when Optronix paused.

   The Elite Guardsman sighed. "It was at Helex. Team of five. My deputy was a femme called Kiloton. We... were close. In fact, the day before she got infected by Corrodia Gravis, I asked her to become my Conjunx Endura."

   "'Significant other,'" Switch Blade murmured, translating the term from its archaic roots. "I'm sorry, Optronix-"

   "Don't be," Optronix grunted, rising from his seat. "We all need our scars. I just happen to have quite a few."

   With that, the Elite Guardsman left, leaving Switch Blade alone to watch the sunrise.

*  *  *

   "Think you can walk?"

   With little effort, Orion Pax climbed off of the repair berth and began walking around the infirmary room. 

   "I sure can," he said with a grin. "Thanks, doc."

   Ratchet smiled back. "Don't mention it, it's why I get paid. Have you heard back from Optronix yet?"

   Orion shook his head. "I sent him a message on his comlink, but I'm sure he's busy with other things." He then shrugged. "I'll probably try again in another deca-cycle."

   "All right," Ratchet replied, offering Orion his hand. "I hope we'll meet again, Orion Pax."

   Orion smiled as he shook it. "I'm sure we will. Later."

   As he headed down the Central Infirmary's main hallway, he took notice of a crippled 'bot in a hoverchair, staring intently at him with cold yellow optics.

   "Er, can I help you?" Orion asked.

   With a raspy voice, the crippled mech said, "What do you believe in?"

   Orion blinked. "Beg your pardon?"

   "Primus. The Guiding Hand. The Thirteen. The Knights of Cybertron. Which do you believe in?"

   "I... I'm afraid I don't believe in any of those, sir."

   "The Primes, then. Surely you believe in the Primes."

   "Well, if you mean 'bots like Sentinel Prime and Nova Prime, then sure. I mean, they definitely exist-"

   "But what about before either of them? Before Sentinel, before Nova. What came before them?"

   "I honestly don't know, sir," Orion said uneasily as he started to leave. "Good day."

   "Know your legacy, boy!" the old bot called after him. "The Darkest Hour is upon us and only he can-!"

   Orion did not hear the last of his disjointed speech, for the Infirmary's closed doors muffled any noises from either side.

EPILOGUE

   Even at night, the erected statue of the legendary Ark was a sight to behold. The moonlight given off by Luna-2 made the sculpture's gold finish gleam magnificently, just like the symbol of hope it was meant to represent when it took off thousands of years ago. Only Primus knew what fate befell the Ark's crew.

   The Mastermind's attention was detracted from the memorial only by the arrival of the person he was waiting for.

   "Ah, Soundwave," he said to the blue mech as he walked up to the bench he was sitting on. "I'm glad you could make it. Please, take a seat."

   "I prefer to stand, thank you," Soundwave said coldly.

   "Suit yourself," the Mastermind said. "So, how is Councilor Ratbat faring?"

   "He is still recovering from the damage caused by the cerebro-shell," the spy replied. "If circumstances were different, I would not have been able to leave his side on my own accord."

   "I understand." The Mastermind let out a sigh. "It's a pity that Motormaster and his Stunticons were captured."

   "I have calculated a twenty-five point eleven percent chance that any of them will confess to the exact details of their involvement in the plan."

   The Mastermind smiled. "I do hope you turn out to be right about that. Of course, I have no reason to doubt you."

   Soundwave did not confirm nor deny that statement. Instead, he said, "What of the failed assassination attempt on Sentinel Prime?"

   "I will admit that I was surprised by the trick Sentinel pulled. I know now not to doubt his cunning and wisdom."

   "So what is out next course of action?"

   "I have taken an interest in the Autobot called Optronix, who turned in the Stunticons. Lord Trannis tells me that he also briefly met with him and agrees that he is someone to keep an eye on."

   "Are we to capture him, then?"

   The Mastermind let out a hearty laugh. "Straightforward as always, Soundwave. No, we shall wait until the time is right. Then, we shall lure him to us through means contrived for such purposes."

   He looked up and smiled at the spy. "The day of the Decepticon Empire's return is nigh, Soundwave. Someone has to rule it."

   "Is Trannis or the other warlords not sufficient?"

   The Mastermind grinned deviously. "A new era calls for a new face, Soundwave. And I already have one pictured in my mind."

TO BE CONTINUED

   EDITED 6/30/2014 Altered Optronix's statement about his fallen teams so I could make Dion having been an Elite Guardsman. I intended to have him be so but goofed up.

Transformers Regenerated: Unicron Saga I, Chapter Ten

CHAPTER TEN

   The stage was set.

   Throngs of Cybertronians, comprised of various castes and functions, gathered outside the Metroplex, the giant building complex which housed the High Council's Grand Imperium, anxiously awaiting Sentinel Prime's appearance. Several balconies had been established: one for the Prime himself, two for members of the High Council, and six for security personnel- Elite Guard and otherwise. Other security was stationed in the crowd itself and in the alleys of Iacon. The Autobots were clearly not taking any chances.

   Thus, Lockdown found it almost pitiful that they had forgotten to protect the most obvious position for an assassin of all: the Metroplex's rooftop.

   Of course, it helped that he wielded stealth technology that could hide him from the keenest optic, but that was besides the point.

   Situating himself directly over the balcony on which Sentinel Prime would soon present himself, the mercenary loaded his sniper rifle and waited patiently for the Prime's arrival. In short time, said arrival was heralded by the appearance of the High Councilors. On the balcony to the left stood Sigil and the various guild leaders- Drivetrain, Shockwave, and others- while on the right stood Sentinel Prime's oldest and most trusted advisors, such as Halogen and Dai Atlas.

   Finally, the esteemed leader of Cybertron himself appeared. His red armor gleamed in the sunlight; the long metal plates attached to his back flowed like a cape. Although his face looked ancient and weary, his body was built strong and proud like a true victor of the Great War. Coming to a stop before the throngs of Cybertronians, Sentinel Prime spread out his arms and spoke, his voice sounding nearly as old as the stars themselves.

   "People of Cybertron," he said. "I come to you during a period of uncertainty. The stability of our Golden Age has been shaken by the murders of Councilors Momus and Decimus. Investigation is still underway for the former's demise, but I assure you that justice shall be delivered."

   The crowd cheered at this statement. Once they had quieted, Sentinel Prime went on, addressing the concerns and disapproval of the caste system as he always did; by turning a blind eye to such complaints.

   Lockdown only paid half an audio sensor to this, instead readying his rifle and waiting for the Prime to state something that, in retrospect, would seem bitterly ironic. Or he could just shoot him now and be done with it.

   But what would be the fun in that?

*  *  *

   "Look alive, Auto-brat!"

   Orion barely had enough time to dodge Wildrider's attack as the Stunticon lunged at him with a built-in chainsaw. He then swung his axe and drove its sharp-end into the Decepticon's back. As Wildrider screamed, Orion swept his legs under him, knocking the Stunticon off his feet.

   Before he could revel in his small victory, Orion was instantly sent flying off his feet as a large figure slammed into him. He was prevented from recovering when a zap of lightning suddenly pulsed through his body, electrocuting him.

   "Please take your time, my friend," a cold voice said to the brute which had beaten Orion. "I might not have anyone left to play with."

   "Ah, I'm just tryin' to have some fun, Knock Out," the larger Stunticon snapped.

   "Have fun with this."

   The Stunticon brute turned around in time for Roller to punch his lights out. Optronix then appeared behind him and fired his blaster at Knock Out, the red mech who had electrocuted Orion. The Stunticon let out a gasp as the hit scorched the paint job near his shoulder.

   "My finish!" he cried. "You ruined my beautiful finish!"

   Gripping his energon prod, he charged towards Optronix, screaming as loud as his voice box would allow. As soon as Knock Out reached him, Optronix nonchalantly snatched the prod from his hands and hit the Stunticon in the back of his head with it.

   "You have the right to remain silent."

   Dead End and Drag Strip were the next to attack, attempting to sneak up on the Elite Guardsman. Without looking at either of them, Optronix broke the prod in two with his knee and stabbed both of them in the eye.

   "Anything you say will be recorded and replayed in a court of law."

   Shaking uncontrollably, Breakdown fired the concussion rifle he was wielding. Optronix dropped to the ground and rolled towards the mech, slapping the gun out of his hand and forcing him to the ground while placing a pair of stasis cuffs onto him.

   "You have the right to a Xaaron-approved defense attorney."

   All that remained was Motormaster. The Stunticon leader, having recovered from Roller's initial attack, brought out his large sword and stormed towards the Autobot commander. He brought it down in a diving slash, which Optronix narrowly avoided by performing a back-flip.

   Before Motormaster could bring his sword back up for another attack, Optronix stretched out his arm and fired a grappling hook which wrapped itself around the Stunticon's body. The Autobot then pulled the sword out of his hands and forced Motormaster to the ground, pressing the barrel of his blaster against his forehead.

   "Do you understand these rights as they have been read to you?"

   With eyes full of hatred, Motormaster merely grunted. After affixing all of the beaten Stutnicons with restraints, Optronix stepped back to survey the scene.

   "Wow," Bumblebee murmured. "That was... wow."

   "Took the words right out of my mouth, kid," Roller said.

   "All right, enough with the 'ooh-ing' and the 'aww-ing,'" Optronix snapped. "Let's get these guys loaded up into the armored convoy and taken to Trypticon Prison."

   While Roller and the others assisted him, Ratchet walked up to the still-stationary Orion. "You okay?" he asked. "That was a pretty nasty shock that 'bot gave you."

   "Yeah. I can barely move," Orion muttered.

   As Ratchet helped him up to his feet, the medic said, "You must be very proud of your brother."

   If Orion could have shrugged, he would have. "Ever since he began moving up in the chain of command, I started to hear less and less from him."

   Ratchet smiled slightly. "Well, maybe now's your chance to get back in touch with each other."

   Orion sighed. "Depends if either of us is willing."

Transformers Regenerated: Unicron Saga I, Chapter Nine

EDITED 2/3/2015 Changed Preditron's name to Gigatron, since I see him as looking like RID Megatron and that name is better associated with that character (being his Japanese name).

CHAPTER NINE

   Roller and Bumblebee followed Scrounge to the warehouse which the gold Autobot had described. Upon their arrival, the three of them transformed into their robot forms and cautiously approached the building. Sneaking around the corner, they found two mechs guarding the entrance.

   "Great," Roller muttered. "How are we going to get in?"

   Before Scrounge could answer, the sound of roaring engines drew their attention to the motorcade of vehicles that were driving up the entrance. In the lead was a black truck carrying a large trailer. Strapped on top of the trailer, much to Roller's disbelief, were Optronix, Orion, and the others.

   "Aw, scrap," Bumblebee murmured. "This is bad."

   "Understatement of the year, kid," Roller grunted.

   Detaching itself from the trailer, the truck morphed into its burly robot form and regarded the two guards coldly. 

   "You are relieved of your shift," he said. "You are to come with me inside, along with Drag Strip and Wildrider, while the others stand guard."

   "Thank Mortilus," one of the guards said dryly. "I was just ready to shoot either myself or Breakdown because of his incessant chattering."

   Their boss snorted. "Whatever, Dead End. Just carry our guests inside."

   The gloomy guard strode over to the trailer which held Optronix and the others and dragged it into the warehouse, leaving the remaining for members of the motorcade outside.

   "Okay, this is very bad," Scrounge said. "Guess it's time for Plan B."

   "Plan B?" Roller asked.

   "I've got a special arm, remember? I was built to be a spy."

   The gold 'bot began searching the wall he and the other two stood beside. Upon finding a wide enough crevice, he extended the two forefingers of his left hand and they detached from his arm along thin wires.

   As he and Bumblebee watched him preform this trick, Roller felt a twinge of jealousy. "How come none of us can do that?"

*  *  *

   "Make yourself comfortable," the Stunticon Wildrider said as he pushed Orion to the ground to sit alongside Optronix, Elita, Arcee, and Ratchet, all five of them rendered immobile by the mode locks they had been affixed with.

   Before them, Motormaster walked up to what Orion assumed was a holographic projector of sorts. As the Stunticon leader entered a series of codes into the device's computer, Orion took the opportunity to speak.

   "Is this meeting really necessary?"

   Motormaster did not answer him. Instead, he said to the one called Breakdown, "Fix them all with mouth clamps and only lower them when I say so."

   The jittery Stunticon did as ordered and the five Autobots were soon rendered speechless as well immobile. These guys sure came prepared, Orion thought.

   Motormaster soon stepped away from the projector and grinned wickedly at the Autobots. "Allow me to introduce you all to the wrongfully defeated, rightful rulers of Cybertron... the esteemed Warlords of the Decepticon Empire!"

   As if on cue, five holographic figures emitted from the projector, towering even over Motormaster. Large and imposing, they fit every description Orion had heard of the Decepticons.

   "Why have you contacted us, Motormaster?" one of the warlords asked. "You know that we have pressing matters to attend to."

   "My apologies, Lord Gigatron," Motormaster said. "I would simply like you to meet a certain noteworthy Autobot."

   "Bah!" snapped the warlord to Gigatron's left. "What need have we of Autobots?"

   "Patience, Deathsaurus," said the warlord who stood in the center of the group of five. "Let us hear him out. Speak, Motormaster."

   The Stunticon leader gestured at Optronix, much to latter and his companions' surprise. "This is the Autobot who calls himself Optronix, though I've been told that he is to succeed Sentinel Prime as Cybertron's leader."

   The optics of everyone present except Motormaster widened. Surprise and intrigue sparked in the leader warlord's eyes.

   "And just how did you come across this information?" he asked. "Is this news public?"

   "No, Lord Trannis," Motormaster replied. "I was told as much by my benefactor. You might know him."

   He turned to stare at Optronix. "In fact, a name has already been decided for him to take on: Optimus Prime. A reference, no doubt, to the High Council's optimism for the next Prime to bring Cybertron totally under their ruthless control."

   He then returned to the warlords. "Which is why I have called you here, my lords. Indulge him with the ideals of the Decepticons. Tell him what you wanted- and continue to desire- for Cybertron's future. Shape him into the leader we- and all of Cybertron- wants him to be."

   "Over my cold, offline husk," a faint voice called.

   Before anyone could determine its source, the wall at the end of the room- to the Autobots' right- suddenly became a storm of debris as it exploded. Charging out of the smoke was Roller, who instantly collided with Motormaster and slammed him into the hologram projector, causing the warlords' images to disperse.

   As he stepped back from the Stunticon leader, Roller grinned. "Hex, next time you get a hideout, which you won't, make sure to put guards on all sides. When I'm around, anything can become an entrance."

   Scowling, Motormaster bellowed to his Stunticons, "Seize him!"

   As the four Stunticons charged towards Roller, Orion almost failed to notice Bumblebee and a gold Autobot climb through the entrance Roller had made and move to free him and the others.

   "We didn't accidentally kill anyone, did we?" the gold one asked.

   "No, Scrounge," Optronix said once his mouth clamp was removed. Free from his restraints, he brought out his primary blaster rifle. "Now, if you don't mind, we have some 'cons to beat up."

The Transformers, Issue 39: Coming of the Swarm, Chapter Five

SHATTERED, PART 1

   (On Cybertron, two Autotroopers are guarding the Space Bridge Nexus)

   Autotrooper #1: Perceptor, the space bridge are all clear.

   Perceptor: Excellent. You may return to Autobot Base.

   Autotrooper #2: Roger that.

   (As they leave, one of the space bridge starts to act weird. Later, the Autotroopers lead Breakaway to the Nexus)

   Autotrooper #1: The Space Bridge leading to Bhul V is up and ready. There you go.

   Breakaway: Thanks.

   Autotrooper #2: Have a good trip, sir.

   (Breakaway goes through the portal... only to end up back on Cybertron)

   Breakaway: Huh?! This is Cybertron!

   ???: Of course it's Cybertron, you idiot.

   (Breakaway turns around to see Rodimus Prime, only in black and purple!)

   Breakaway: Rodimus Prime?!

   Hot Rod: Rodimus Prime? It's Hot Rod, you dolt! Now come on, Prime's waiting.

   (He leads Breakaway to what appears to be an Autobot Fortress, where they find a purple Optimus Prime!)

   Hot Rod: My lord, Breakaway has returned.

   Optimus Prime: Excellent. How was your visit to Bhul?

   Breakaway: Er, I didn't even got their, sir.

   Optimus Prime: Oh, let me guess; everyone died before you got their. I understand. Heh, wouldn't be the first time! Come one, let's go the Execution Chamber. Lower the cage!

   (A cage lowers over a smelting pool. Inside it is a Decepticon)

   Optimus Prime: Ruckus, you've been spotted trespassing in Autobot territory. You know that's not a good thing.

   (He shoots at the cage's chain and Ruckus plunges into the smelting pool and dies)

   Breakaway: Prime! You can't do that!

   Optimus Prime: Really? Oh, that's right. This is supposed to be your turn this month to execute the prisoner.

   Breakaway: No! Look, I may not like 'Cons as much as the next 'bot, but they don't deserve... that! Look, I... can't stand this. You're crazy! I'm leaving!

   SG Optimus: Oh, so unwise.

   Breakaway: What did you-?! (He gets shoot down and then thrown out the fortress)

   (In the prime reality, news reporters Rook (no relation to Jhiaxus' buddy) and Andromeda report the news)

   Rook: Hello, fellow Cybertronian. Apparently, the Stockade is cursed. At least a dozen Decepticons have been freed. By who, you may ask? ...I have no idea. But Sprocket does.

   Sprocket: Thanks, Rook. A breakout like this hasn't happen since... uh... a while ago. So, uh, now they're in hyperspace. Great.

   (Elsewhere, on the planet Kadox in the Necrosis system....)

   Crankcase?: Thunderwing, look!

   Thunderwing: Deathsaurus?! How did you escape and how did you find us?

   Deathsaurus: I got lucky... and an old friend gave me directions. His name is Doubledealer. And I'd like to help you in the search for Lord Galvatron.

   Thunderwing: Hm... very well. Is every Decepticon here? (Deathsaurus nods) Then transform and RISE UP!

   (In the Shattered Glass reality, Breakaway awakens to find Constructicons working over him)

   SG Hook: AHHH!

   Breakaway: AHHH!

   SG Scrapper: What is it, Hook?

   SG Hook: It's... it's an Autobot!

   Breakaway: Decepticons! What do you want from me?!

   SG Scrapper: Go get Megatron.

   SG Hook: Yes, sir!

   Breakaway: Megatron...?

   SG Scrapper: Sir, I believe he's another one of those... multiverse beings.

   SG Megatron: Well, Starscream, it seems you were right.

   Breakaway: What's going on?!

   SG Megatron: Autobot... we have to talk.

   (Meanwhile, at the evil Autobots' fortress)

   SG Drench: My lord, we have subdued the Decepticon forces in Altihex.

   SG Optimus Prime: And Polyhex?

   SG Drench: Well, Straxus' forces are many....

   SG Optimus Prime: Hmph, understandable. Kalis?

   SG Drench: All Decepticon forces dead-

   SG Optimus Prime: Didn't I specifically want some of them alive?

   SG Drench: Er, well... we had no choice.

   SG Optimus Prime: And haven't yo taken care of larger forces before?

   SG Drench: Er, well, this is different!

   SG Optimus Prime: Not to me. (He then mutilates and kills Drench) Let this be a reminder for any further failures. Goldbug, you're in charge.

   SG Goldbug: As you wish, Lord Optimus Prime.

   SG Sideswipe: My lord, was that really necessary?

   SG Optimus Prime: Do you oppose my will, Sideswipe?

   SG Sideswipe: Er, no, my lord....

   SG Optimus Prime: Good, now return to your duties.

   (In the prime reality, the good Optimus Prime speaks with Axiom Trion)

   Axiom Trion: You wanted to see me, Optimus?

   Optimus Prime: Ultra Magnus said he was discharged from duty for disobedience.

   Axiom Trion: Well, yes. You see, since you and Rodimus were busy, I gave orders... and Magnus disobeyed mine. (sighs) Beta Minor told me he was reckless....

   Optimus Prime: ...If you say so. [That was lame]

   (Elsewhere, the Mystery Figure and his master stand over Galvatron's body, with the latter chanting in an illegible language)

   Mystery Figure: ...What the heck are you saying?!

   Mystery Master: You have at least reached the final stage of your destiny. First, you were Megatron, quite naive, yet cunning. Second, you were Galvatron; you thought you were more powerful than Unicron... that led to many failures. Now... you shall end as you began. Arise... SUPER MEGATRON!

   To be continued

FEATURED CHARACTERS

   Autobots: Andromeda, Autotroopers, Axiom Trion, Breakaway, Optimus Prime, Perceptor, Rook, Slamdance, Sprocket

   Decepticons: Deathsaurus, Doubledealer, Galvatron/Megatron, Nemesis Prime, Thunderwing

   Evil Autobots: Drench, Goldbug, Hot Rod, Optimus Prime, Sideswipe

   Good Decepticons: Hook, Megatron, Ruckus, Scrapper, Soundwave, Starscream

   Others: Mystery Figure and his master

Transformers Regenerated: Unicron Saga I, Chapter Eight

CHAPTER EIGHT

   Some Cybertronians were born lucky. If they got constructed with a jet alternate mode, they'd usually get inducted into the Aerial Corps. If they were a construction vehicle, they'd be made a Constructicon, and so on and so forth. Scrounge, however, got the short end of the stick.

   He turned into a wheel. A lousy wheel that did nothing but roll. While the Functionists who ran the caste system were generous enough to place him in Intelligence, where his small size and one-of-a-kind arm would be useful for reconnaissance, he was still treated as inferior by some of his peers.

   But that was soon to change. Once he found out who the Mastermind was behind the recent Decepticon movement, he would prove himself not just in the eyes of his friends, but the High Council's as well.

   "Hey, Scrounge."

   The unexpected call startled the small gold wheel, causing him to veer off from his path. After colliding with a waste bucket, he converted into his robot mod, sitting in a daze. After clearing his head, he looked up to see two Autobots- one larger than the other- standing before him.

   "Oh. Hey, Roller," Scrounge said, rising to his feet. "What are you doing here?"

   "Investigating a murder," the large Autobot replied. "You?"

   Scrounge glanced around frantically before saying, in a low whisper, "I'm trying to put a stop to this Decepticon movement."

   "Decepticons?" Roller's yellow-colored companion repeated. "I thought they all had their cans kicked!"

   "Not so loud," Scrounge hissed. "They did, but they're slowly trying to rebuild their empire. I overheard it from a pair of 'bots-"

   "A pair of 'bots?" Roller asked. "What did they look like?"

   "Short, stout, identical in everything but color. One was black and red, the other blue and gray."

   Roller grinned. "What a coincidence. We happen to be after a set of twins looking just like that. Any idea where they could be?"

   "I often see them heading into this warehouse," Scrounge replied. "If you would like, I could lead you to it."

   "That would be fantastic. Lead the way."

   The gold Autobot converted into his alternate mode and sped away, with Roller and his companion not far behind. At the same time, Scrounge could have sworn he saw a winged mechanimal watching them intently before taking off....

*  *  *

   After leaving the Blue Deployer, Optronix and his team met up with Ratchet and Arcee, who had been unable to get any info from their contact. Frustrated by these results, Optronix contacted Roller, ready to call the mission off if his results were the same.

   Instead of Roller's deep voice however, Optronix was greeted by a lighter, somewhat suave and yet smarmy voice.

   "Yes?"

   "Who are you?" Optronix demanded. "What have you done to Roller?"

   "I'm afraid I don't know anyone by that name," the voice replied. "If he calls me by chance, I'll let him know you called. Would you like to leave a message?"

   "Who is this? What's going on?"

   "Any questions you may have can be directed to your friend Cryotek. He's the one who slapped a tracking device onto your back."

   Dread pulsing in his spark, Optronix craned his head and saw the barely-noticeable, miniscule device latched onto his back, barely noticeable to the naked optic. Before he could verbally curse Cryotek's name, the sound of roaring engines made him look up as a group of Cybertronian vehicles surrounded him and his team.

   Orion, Elita, and Arcee instantly deployed their weapons but Optronix raised a hand to prevent them from taking action. This apparently evoked a chuckled from the black truck that led the group.

   "Wise of you to lower your weapons," it rumbled. "Here in Kaon, the Stunticons reign supreme."

   "Stunticons?" Orion echoed.

   "A band of thugs," Optronix muttered. "What's the meaning of this, Motormaster?"

   With a deafening roar, the black truck shifted and rose into a tall, burly robot form, clutching a large purple sword in one hand. "I have eyes and ears in all sorts of places," the Stunticon leader said. "Word of your investigation spread and I was able to take the necessary precautions."

   Nodding to his fellow Stunticons, he said, "Seize them."

   All at once, the band of cars morphed into their robot forms and quickly affixed the five Autobots with mode locks, rendering them practically immobile.

   Optronix glared at Motormaster. "And just what do you intend to do with us?"

   The Stunticon leader grinned. "I'm in the mood of holding you for ransom. But first, there's a group of gentle-bots that I would like you to meet."

*  *  *

   "I trust that this info is legit?"

   The cloaked figure which stood before the mercenary in the destitute slums of Polyhex maintained his cold expression as he handed him a small datachip.

   "If it wasn't, would I have any reason in giving it to you?"

   The mercenary grunted. "You know, for someone in such a high position such as yourself, I'm surprised you'd stoop down to the level of hiring the likes of me."

   "I have no one else to turn to. I am the only one who can see through the veil of deception the High Council has weaved."

   "And you think that by killing Sentinel Prime, the veil would, what, lower?"

   The stranger's icy blue optics stared into the mercenary's red ones. "Something like that. You aren't having second thoughts now, are you, Lockdown?"

   Lockdown snorted. "Heck no. Just curious, is all."

   Putting the datachip away, the mercenary nodded farewell to his contact. "I guess I'll see you later, whether it's at Trypticon Prison, or among the throngs of people that are cheering on your ascension."

   The Mastermind allowed himself a smile, though not one of mirth. "Nevertheless, our paths will cross again. I promise you that, Lockdown."

Star Wars Short Stories: Valorum II / Eulogy of a Hero

Yeah, I think this is how it'll be for a while: one day a chapter from whatever story I'm working on, another day a TF comic and a short story.
The first short story explains how Finis Valorum survived his death from the Republic comic to appear in my stories. The second one is my expansion on the backstory of a minor canon character who had a major role in my story, taking place between Destiny Episodes III and IV

VALORUM II

   The once and former Supreme Chancellor fell to his knees. His plan had worked perfectly. Perhaps too perfectly.

   During his ten years of seclusion and retirement, Finis Valorum had studied the history of the Old Republic, both before and after the Ruusan Reformations, as well as the accomplishments of his ancestor Tarsus. Clearly there had to have been something he was doing wrong as Supreme Chancellor, or else Queen Amidala would not have called for a Vote of No Confidence.

   It was during his researches that something entered his mind, caused by a recurring theme in the historic records: the Sith

   Nearly a thousand years ago, shortly before the Ruusan Reformations, the New Sith Wars ended with the Seventh Battle of Ruusan, which saw to the eradication and apparent extinction of the Sith Lords. That is, until eleven years ago, Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn was killed by a warrior who, according to his surviving apprentice, was a Sith Lord. 

   This made Valorum wonder, if Qui-Gon's Killer was indeed a Sith Lord, were there more out there? Was the killer a Dark Lord... or merely a pawn? And if it was the latter, who was the master and what was his or here whereabouts?

   Whatever the answers were, Valorum had to make a move, for he saw it was more than likely that a politician as corrupt as Palpatine or Viento could fall to the doings of a Sith Lords. After having observed Palpatine's activites, such as the passing of the Enforcement Act, and having heard of Senator Seti Ashgad's mysterious vanishing, Valorum decided it was time to make his re-emergence.

   The moment he did so however, he knew instantly that Palpatine would make him a target of some sorts. Thus, after presenting a tirade on Palpatine to the Senate through his friend Senator Organa, Valorum decided it was best to leave Coruscant and disappear from the galactic population. But he also knew an assassination attempt would likely be made, and so he hired someone to act as a decoy. Using his retirement funds, he acquired the means to alter the decoy's appearance to look like himself and to alter his own appearance.

   And so, while the false Valorum was killed by the assassin, the real one sneaked onto an AA-9 Coruscant freighter and left the Core Worlds region for good. He had made his final stop in the Esstran sector, on a world so remote that no one, not even Palpatine, would be able to find him.

   There was only one flaw to his plan: he had landed on a planet so remote, hardly anyone had any knowledge on it. If they had, he would have known of the planet's inhabitants....

   One of the five-cloaked men standing before him unleashed another blast of lightning. "State your business here," he said coldly.

   Valorum tired to speak but his body was too weak that he couldn't even move his mouth to form words.

   "He's dying," another one said. "He seems very stressed and it doesn't look like he's eaten recently."

   "All the more reason to kill him and end his misery," a third one said. "Finish him, Argor."

   "Wait." The three men turned to look at a fourth one of their member. "I believe he can be of some use."

   The third man sneered. "Don't be preposterous, Cronal. He's a non-Force sensitive. What possible purpose could he serve?"

   A small, mirthless smile broke the otherwise-emotionless face of the man named Cronal. "You would be surprised."

   Before the others could protest, Cronal pushed past his companions and grabbed Valorum by the arm, just as he slowly drifted to sleep.

*  *  *

   "You are awake."

   The words were less a statement and more a command. As such, Valorum's eyes fluttered open immediately. From what he could tell, he was laying in near-complete darkness, with the only light being a dim lantern hanging over his head. He tried to move but realized that he couldn't feel his body at all.

   "Where am I?" he demanded. "What have you done to me?"

   "I have fixed you," Cronal's voiced replied. "I noticed that your body was failing, and since mere food and water would not replenish your energy enough to prevent your death, I decided to... improvise in order to preserve your life."

   "What kind of improvisations did you make?" Valorum asked warily.

   "To put it in layman's terms? I've added some extensive cybernetic implants."

   Valorum tried to gasp, only to find that he somehow couldn't. "You've turned me into a cyborg?"

   "You could say that," Cronal replied. "In short, I mainly placed the cybernetics into your internal organs to keep you alive. But I've also given you a suit of armor to keep you moving... and a helmet to conceal your visual appearance; the minor lobotomy did not go well."

   "Wouldn't a hood have sufficed?" Valorum snarled. "I don't plan on making any public appearances in the near future."

   "Perhaps it would have," Cronal said. At that moment, Valorum felt a helmet slowly slide over his head. He surprisingly felt it easier to breathe in.

   "What about your words earlier?" he then asked. "About me serving a possible use."

   "I simply needed a good reason to whisk you away," Cronal explained. "The others would not understand what specific purpose I needed you for."

   "And what would that be?"

   A cold chuckle echoed throughout the room. "Tell me, Finis... have you heard of the Sith?"

EULOGY OF A HERO

   Senator Izrin Arapto sighed as she took the podium. Standing before her, thousands- perhaps millions- of people awaited her speech on the passing of the late Chief of State, Jenssar SoBilles.

   Clearing her throat, the Senator of Duro finally spoke. "Jenssar SoBilles was born in the decades proceeding the Clone Wars. His father, Hanssar, served as Senator of Duro for many years, under Chancellors Darus, Frix, and Kalpana.

   "During his time as senator, Hanssar wished to stop the plague of corruption that had weakened the Old Republic and restore the golden age originally established by Tarsus Valorum. When Tarsus' descendent, Finis, was elected, he held hope that he would accomplish just that.

   "But with the Trade Federation crisis and the Invasion of Naboo, Hanssar's hopes were dashed and only further trampled when Chancellor Palpatine declared himself Galactic Emperor. It was at that moment that Jenssar decided to honor his father's memory by starting a resistance movement on Duro and later joined the Alliance to Restore the Republic at the behest of Mon Mothma and like-minded Rebels from Sullust and Corellia."

   Izrin paused for a moment, staring misty-eyed at her written eulogy, before continuing. "It was during a battle to liberate Duro that I met Jenssar SoBilles. Immediately, I was inspired by him to fight not just for Duro and the Republic, but for the galaxy itself. Even after our defeat, my inspiration turned into admiration and we developed mutual feelings for each other. After the Battle of Endor, we were wedded on our liberated homeworld."

   Silence briefly hung over the room until the aging Duros woman finally found her voice. "When Jenssar was elected Chief of State of our New Republic, he had finally reached the position from which he could fulfill his father's dream. And for the next fourteen years, he did just that."

   Izrin held back a sob as she said, "Until he was found dead in his office two weeks ago. But his death will not be left in vain. Our current Chief of State, former Chancellor Finis Valorum, has promised to make up for his mistakes he made more than fifty years ago, and ensure that the Empire and their Sith allies will be defeated once and for all.

   "And it is with that, and a sorrow heart, I leave you."

   Izrin stepped away from the podium and allowed a mournful silence to engulf the room.

The Transformers, Issue 38: Coming of the Swarm, Chapter Four

BATTLE OF GORLAM PRIME

   (A fleet of Autobot ships, commanded by Star Saber, approaches the Cybertronian Empire's fleet while over Gorlam Prime)

   Star Saber: (monologue) I am Star Saber, Autobot Commander. I have won many battles, even before Optimus Prime's time. This one, hopefully, won't be an exception. (End monologue) Blacker, take your squad and form Road Caesar! Wingwaver, lead the Multiforce against those cruisers!

   Wingwaver: What about you?

   Star Saber: I'll handle the big one....

   (On board the Twilight-)

   Jhiaxus: Well, this is certainly... different.

   Rook: Sir, we're surrounded!

   Jhiaxus: Not for long. (Jhiaxus contacts the Autobots on Star Saber's ship) Autobots! Did you really think it would be that easy? Fool... Rook, charge up the shield generator. All ships attack!

   Maelstrom: This is General Maelstrom. All forces, follow my lead!

   Star Saber: (transforms) Brainmasters, form Road Caesar!

   Wingwaver: Multiforce, move out!

   (And so the battle begins. Down below on Gorlam Prime, at a criminal hideout....)

   Doubledealer: Here's your credits, Shadow. And just to let you know, Cryotek is dead.

   Black Shadow: Aww, that's too bad. Who's replacing him as Number One?

   Doubledealer: No one, so far. Let me guess... you want to be "Number One."

   Black Shadow: Heck yeah! Yo, Blue! Get Cryo's secretary on the line!

   Blue Bacchus: Blue Bacchus to Cryotek's office. (A visage appears on the videoscreen) Online.

   Wingstun: What is it, Black Shadow?

   Black Shadow: Hey, Wingstun! Who's replacing Cryotek?

   Wingstun: That is classified information. Buzzbomb is currently filling in for him.

   Black Shadow: Okay. Say, can I, uh... replace him?

   (Suddenly, Doubledealer shoots and kills Black Shadow! He then says farewell to Blue Bacchus and leaves Gorlam Prime. Back in space....)

   Machtackle: Wingwaver, this is Machtackle! We're outnumbered by them!

   Wingwaver: (sighs) Fine. Multiforce, form LANDCROSS!

   (The three (well, technically six) members of Multiforce combine into Landcross and charges towards the Twilight)

   Jhiaxus: Rook, commence primary cannon.

   (The Twilight's cannon fires at Landcross, sending him flying back. Suddenly, Star Saber crashes through the bridge and confronts Jhiaxus)

   Star Saber: I order you to stand now.

   Jhiaxus: Hmm, how about... no? (He shoots at Star Saber and the Autobot warrior lies at his mercy) Saberjaw, kill him.

   Saberjaw: Heh-heh-heh....

   (On Cybertron, at Autobot HQ....)

   Fixit (voice): Ultra Magnus, this is Fixit. Landcross has been defeated and we've lost Star Saber's signal!

   Ultra Magnus: Blurr, inform the High Council and request them to send reinforcements. Fixit, I'll send a cruiser immediately. [That... kinda sounded contradictory....]

   Fixit: Better hurry! They're breaking in!

   (Meanwhile, Blurr rushes over to the High Council's chambers)

   Blurr: (talking really fast) Why do I even bother transforming when the Council Tower is just right there? Axiom Trion, Ultra Magnus needs permission to send help to Star Saber's team!

   Axiom Trion: I am sorry, Blurr, but sending reinforcements will not be possible.

   Blurr: WHAT?!

   Axiom Trion: We need all of our forces here in case another attack occurs like last time. [Referring to Issue 35]

   Blurr: (talking really fast) But... but... shouldn't you ask Rodimus Prime? I mean, he's the boss!

   Axiom Trion: I am speaking for the Prime. Tell Magnus to belay the order. That is final. [My "Jerk Radar" is going off the scales. I'm sure he'd make good friends with Animated Sentinel Prime]

   Blurr: Yes... sir.

   (Back at Gorlam Prime-)

   Jhiaxus: Give it up, Autobots! One attempt to attack or escape, and your leader dies.

   Fixit: Magnus, hurry up with those reinforcements!

   Ultra Magnus: (from videoscreen) I'm sorry, Fixit, but the High Council refuses to send any reinforcements.

   Fixit: What?! But... they have Star Saber! They're gonna kill us!

   (At Autobot HQ, the Elite Guard awaits Magnus' next move)

   Kup: It's your call, kid....

   Ultra Magnus: Thunder Clash... take your men to Gorlam Prime.

   (Back at Gorlam Prime-)

   Rook: Main cannon is ready to fire. You know they won't surrender.

   Jhiaxus: I know. Fire at-

   (Suddenly, reinforcements arrive! Thunder Clash's ship- the Eight Track- prepares its main cannon and fires at the Twilight! [Insert vampire joke here] Star Saber takes the opportunity to escape and the Cybertronian Empire's forces retreat! Once they and the Autobots are gone, the Mystery Figure appears once again)

   Mystery Figure: Jhiaxus! I swear, when I find you... you are going to pay!

   (Back at Cybertron, Ultra Magnus stands before the High Council)

   Axiom Trion: Ultra Magnus, you have disobeyed my orders. Therefore-

   Ultra Magnus: Your orders?! I thought all orders came from Rodimus Prime or Optimus!

   Axiom Trion: Rodimus Prime and Optimus are busy with other errands. I am thus in charge in their stead. Due to your disobedience, you are no long in command of the Elite Guard. Thunder Clash shall take your place. You are dismissed.

   Ultra Magnus: Yes... sir. 

   (Elsewhere, in space, the Mystery Figure comes across a deactivated body)

   Mystery Figure: Jhiaxus? No, it's Galvatron! Well, I do need a new body. (However, before he can take control of it or whatever, a second figure appears)

   ???: And just what are you doing?

   Mystery Figure: Master! I... I didn't notice you. I... I just found him.

   Mystery Master: Save it. (He picks up Galvatron's body) We have work to do....

   To be continued

FEATURED CHARACTERS

   Autobots: Axiom Trion, Blacker, Blurr, Dashtacker, Fixit, Kup, Landcross, Machtackle, Star Saber, Ultra Magnus, Wingwaver 

   Decepticons: Galvatron (deactivated)

   Cybertronian Empire: Jhiaxus, Maelstrom, Rook, Saberjaw

   Others: Black Shadow, Blue Bacchus, Doubledealer, Mystery Figure, Mystery Master, Wingstun

Transformers Regenerated: Unicron Saga I, Chapter Seven

   EDITED 4/10/2015 Changed Rattletrap back to Rattrap (really no reason to have ever changed it in the first place)

CHAPTER SEVEN

   "Five minutes and I already hate this place."

   Transforming into his robot mode, Optronix smirked. "Not every place is shiny and clean like Iacon, Orion."

   "Iacon isn't exactly a bright spot, either," Elita One said as she morphed from her alternate mode. "But it's certainly a lot brighter than this."

   The three of them had come to a stop before a shady-looking bar. Its neon sign at the entrance read "The Blue Deployer" and below it stood a towering brute.

   "Password," the five-eyed mech grunted.

   "We don't need one," Optronix said, holding up his Elite Guard badge. "We're on official business."

   Another grunt. "What kind of business would bring the Elite Guard to Kaon?"

   "Not for you to know. Please, let us in."

   The brute crossed his arms, clearly unrelenting. All five of his optics stared down at the Elite Guardsman, who returned the cold gaze. The clash of wills was soon brought to an end by a single word, uttered by Optronix.

   "Deszaras."

   Suddenly, the door behind the bouncer slid open and a tall mech in blue and gray appeared before them. A smile crossed his face as his eyes fell on Optronix.

   "Well, well, well," the blue bot said. "This is certainly an unexpected visit. Let them in, Lugnut."

   The five-eyed mech complied and allowed Optronix, Orion, and Elita to enter. Inside, the Blue Deployer held very few patrons, making Orion believe that it was a more private club. Several optics watched the three Autobots as they followed the blue mech into a room behind the bar. Once the door was closed, the bot turned to face them.

   "Well, Optronix... what brings you to a place of melancholy like this?"

   "Information, Cryotek," Optronix replied. "You've heard of Councilor Momus' death, haven't you?"

   "I'm sure everyone on the planet knows," Cryotek said. "When you've got people with microphones built into their thumbs, news carries fast."

   "Right, and so do rumors. Have you happened to have heard anything about the Forum of Enlightenment incident from your patrons?"

   Cryotek grinned. "I never eavesdrop on my patrons, Optronix. It would be bad for business."

   "But have you at least overheard something?"

   "I work all the way here at the back of the bar, listening to the Empyrean Suite. Do you think it's even possible for me to overhear things?"

   Optronix sighed. This was clearly going nowhere.

   "What about your employees?" Orion suddenly blurted out, almost without thinking. When Cryotek gave him a puzzled look, he clarified. "You don't work here by yourself, do you? You've got to have some servers."

   Cryotek turned to Optronix and grinned. "Bright one, isn't he?" To Orion, he said, "Indeed, I do have a few 'bots under my service. Lugnut, of course, serves as bouncer. Shadow Striker runs the game table, Backslash serves tables, and Buzzbomb serves as my bodyguard."

   "Really?" Elita said. "I don't see-"

   "Look up."

   The three Autobots looked up to see a gold and silver mech hovering over them, his arm cannons trained on them.

   "Don't mind me," Buzzbomb grunted. "I'm just waitin' fer someone tah make ah move."

   "At ease, Buzzbomb," Cryotek ordered. "Optronix and his friends mean no harm."

   Optronix shifted in his stance. "Well then, if you don't know anything, we'll be on our way."

   Cryotek patted his old friend on the back. "I'm sorry I was unable to help you, Optronix. Remember, you and your friends are always welcome at the Blue Deployer."

   "I'll keep that in mind," Optronix muttered as, Orion, and Elita left the room.

*  *  *

   "Please! Let me go! I don't know anything!"

   Roller grinned as he tightened his grip around the gray and brown mech's legs. "Is that so? I would think someone like you would know something, Rattrap."

   Hanging upside down, the skinny 'bot flailed his arms. "What is it you want? Unlicensed Shock Pop datatrax? Forged tickets to Rosanna's concert?"

   "That would be stooping down to your level," Roller muttered. "You must know something about Councilor Momus' murder."

   Rattrap ceased his flailing and blinked. "Momus? Y-yeah, I know somethin' about that."

   Roller released the black market salesman, letting him fall to the floor. Bumblebee then deployed his built-in stingers and aimed them at Rattrap, ensuring that he wouldn't escape.

   "Speak," Roller ordered.

   "Okay," Rattrap murmured. "Y'see, I know these two guys. Frenzy and Rumble. Brothers, I think. Anyway, I was talking to one of them -- think it was Frenzy, the blue one -- and he was blabberin' about how Momus doesn't really care about the bots in his guild anymore. I wasn't really payin' attention. I was just sellin' him some frag grenades I'd looted from-"

   He froze, as if realizing that he had said something he shouldn't have. Roller merely gave him a look of grim satisfaction.

   "Any idea where to find Frenzy or Rumble? Or both?" he asked.

   "I-I don't know. I don't see 'em that often."

   "All right." Roller pressed a panel on his arm. "Thanks for the info. I'll have a unit of Autotroopers come by and arrest you for theft and illegally obtained weapons. And to make sure you stay put...."

   He brought out a pair of stasis cuffs and slapped them onto Rattrap's wrists, rendering him immobile but conscious.

   "Have a good day."

   As they transformed and moved away from the protesting mech, Bumblebee said to Roller, "So, what now? We have our suspects, but no idea on how to find them."

   "Leave it to me, kid," Roller replied. "I know someone who can find his way through places like this easily."

   "Then why didn't Optronix have us go straight to him in the first place?"

   "Because no one trusts him as far as they can throw him."

Star Wars Short Story: Abandoned

A short story set during the Knights of the Old Republic time period.

ABANDONED

   He had lost everything. His home laid in ruins, fire crackling all around it. All those whom he had loved were dead, slain by ruthless, bloodthirsty pirates. There was nothing left for him now.

   He was abandoned.

   As he sat there, on his knees, mournfully sobbing for those whom he had lost, a figure appeared out of the darkness, cautiously walking towards him. He had failed to notice the newcomer until they gently touched him on his shoulder. Startled, he turned around to face his savior.

   It was an alien face that greeted him, one he had not seen before. It wasn't like the ones he saw during the attack- sneering, threatening, and all-around frightening. No, this one was calm, though rather big, protruding from a large hump on the figure's back. A pair of black eyes stared at him with a mix of peace and concern.

   "Are you all right, little one?" it asked in a booming voice.

   He shook his head.

   "Can you tell me what happened here?" it asked.

   He told the stranger. He told it about the marauders that had attacked, killed, and looted. He told it about the burning of his home and the deaths of his parents and sibling. He told it everything.

   Once he was done, the alien patted the boy on the head. "Do not worry," it said. "You are safe, now. The pirates have been chased off and won't be coming back. Do you have any where else to go?"

   He shook his head again, sobbing at the same time.

   The alien tilted its head, a feat which the boy would have thought impossible. "Are there any orphanages or other such havens nearby?"

   Once again, he responded with a negative. 

   "Well, I know of one," the alien said, picking the boy up with its large arms. "It is far away from here, but I can take you to it. Have you heard of the Jedi Temple?"

   He shook his head.

   "Well, I can think of no better place for you than there. It is a safe haven for those strong in the Force, and I can certainly sense it in you. Would you like to go there? You will be among your own kind."

   The boy mulled over it before nodding.

   The aliens two mouths- one on each side of its unusual head- curved into a smile. "In that case, welcome to the Jedi Order. Before we go, can you tell me your name?"

   The boy nodded. "Deren," he said. "Deren Saran."

-Jedi Temple-

   "This is an intriguing boy you've found, Master Vadon," said Jedi Master Kavar said as he and his Ithorian comrade watched the young boy train amongst his peers. "Where did you find him?"

   "Somewhere in the Outer Rim," Aamaw Vadon said. "On a planet called Belderone. His home had been attacked by pirates."

   "Hmm," Kavar said. "Belderone is not far from Hutt Space. Those dastardly slugs probably had business there."

   "In either way, the others and I chased them off." Vadon continued to watch the boy with curiosity before saying, "You don't think he'll... develop a hunger for revenge, do you?"

   "It all depends on how you raise him, Master Vadon," Kavar said as he turned to leave. "By trial and error."

-Taloraan, seventeen years later-

   Pirate ships dominated the cloudscape of Taloraan. A Lethisk-class armed freighter led squadrons of S-100 Stinger-class starfighters around tibanna gas stations that floated within the gas giant. Standing on a platform protruding from Taloraan's capital station, Deren Saran watched the ships via a pair of macrobinoculars.

   Be mindful of your feelings, Deren, his master had told before the outset of their mission. Disregard what they did to your home; that does not make them deserving of death.

   But Deren could not make the rage that boiled within him subside. The terrors he had seen all those many years ago were still fresh in his mind: his burning home, the charred corpses, the taunting laughter... he had to rid himself of his grief.

   Climbing into the S-250 starfighter that the Republic had lend him and Master Vadon for the rescue mission of Senator Dollan, Deren took off towards the armed freighter, shooting down the Stringers that came after him. He spun his fighter this way and that, executing wild maneuvers that soon gave him a clear shot of the freighter. 

   Once he was in range, he leaped from his fighter and landed on top of the ship. Igniting his lightsaber blade, he began carving an entrance, prompting cannons on the side to fire at him. He quickly cut them away before kicking down the slab of metal he had carved out. Inside the ship, a band of Niktos, Weequays, and Klatooinians waited for him inside, bearing vibro-axes and blaster rifles. They sneered at him, muttering curses and jeering taunts.

   He simply smiled.

-Jedi Temple-

   "Deren Saran, your actions on Taloraan were simply intolerable," Jedi Master Vrook Lamar said with severe disapproval. 

   Standing before the twelve members of the Jedi High Temple alongside his master, Deren was surprised to feel no remorse for his actions. In his mind, the pirates he had slain on Teloraan deserved the fate he had brought upon them, for what they had done to his family. The Council, of course, did not agree.

   "Do you have any parting words before we expel you from the Order?" Master Atris said bitterly.

   "Let us not be hasty," Master Zez-Kai Ell said, leaning forward in his seat. "We all make mistakes in our lives as apprentices, murder often being amongst them." To Deren, he said, "Do you feel any remorse for your actions, young one?"

   Deren shook his head.

   All those present stared at him; some appalled, others angered. The momentary silence that followed was soon broken by the oldest of the council, Vandar Tokare.

   "Do you care to explain why you do not feel remorse, Padawan Saran?" the wizened alien said.

   "They deserved it," Deren said. "They killed my family mercilessly when I was young. It was only fitting that I gave them the same fate."

   "You feel attachment towards your lost love ones," Master Kavar said. "You are aware that the Jedi Code forbids attachment, are you not?"

   "Yes, but I no longer care what the Jedi Code allows and doesn't. I am at peace with myself for avenging my family."

   "And yet, does this massacre bring your family back?" Master Lamar said. "Has your home on Belderone been repaired? Has eternal peace been brought to the galaxy?"

   When Deren did not respond, Lamar grunted. "Then it is clear that there is no place for you here within the Jedi Order. Unless, of course, Master Vadon thinks he would be able to curb this anger of yours and whip you back into shape."

   All eyes turned to the Ithorian Jedi, who simply hung his large head in shame.

   "Then it is decided," Master Atris said. "Deren Saran, you are hereby expelled from the Jedi Order."

   "I don't need to be," Deren said bitterly. "You've already abandoned me." 

   With that, he turned on his heels and strode out of the High Council's chamber.

-The Leviathan; two years later-

   "You have been abandoned by your family through death, and the Jedi through exile."

   The crimson blade shimmered as it touched each of the man's shoulders shoulders, purposely burning into them. The tall being who stood before him spoke with a cold and sinister voice, amplified by the metal collar that concealed the lower half of his face.

   "The dark side has since become your ally. It is the only that has not abandoned you; that has stayed with you from the day you were born."

   The lightsaber then hissed shut as the Dark Lord of the Sith finished off the informal "ceremony."

   "You are to be my Shadow Hand and sole apprentice. You shall obey my every command and carry out my every task."

   The man who was once known as Deren Saran looked up at his new master, eyes which were once dark brown glowing like a fire.

   "Arise... Darth Bandon."