A Bionicle Halloween Special

Yeah, last minute holiday special. I think I could have done better, especially with the ending.
EDITED 1/4/13 Rewrote some parts, mostly the ending

 *  *  *

Timeline: Approximately 7,000 Years Before Makuta's Demise

   The small fire illuminated the Turaga's hunched form as he sat before the awaiting Matoran. On the last day of every month, the elder of Kora Nui would call for all of the villagers to gather around and listen to one of his tales. Each story was a new one, taking a page from the Turaga's youthful days as a heroic Toa warrior.

   As he sat down, a smile creased the worn lines of the Turaga's azure mask. Setting his walking stick down, Turaga Barresh spoke.

   "Settle down, my friends, as I tell you the Dreadful Tale of Sorefus and Necrosis."

   The Matoran looked on in anticipation, waiting patiently for the Turaga to continue.

   "Sorefus and Necrosis were once ordinary Makuta," Barresh went on. "After the terrible civil war which plagued the Great City, they were each assigned an island to supervise. Sorefus was given Kora Nui itself while Necrosis its sister, Ballisa Nui.

   "Given time, however, they grew corrupt with the power- however limited- they were given. They began experimenting upon the Matoran which they had sworn to protect. Sorefus would drain innocent children of their life and Necrosis would reanimate them, though they were no longer whom they once were."

   A hand from the audience prevented the Turaga from continuing.

   Barresh sighed. "Yes, Tuyet, what is it?"

   The Ga-Matoran stared at him with eyes full of wonder. "How was Necrosis able to reanimate the Matoran?"

   Barresh smiled. "Has anyone here heard of the Kanohi Tryna?"

   None of the Matoran responded.

   "I wouldn't think so. The Kanohi Tryna, the Mask of Reanimation, is a tool of immoral power. It wields the ability to grant artificial life to bodies which lack it."

   "So, these Matoran were... undead?" a De-Matoran asked, his voice quiet with fear.

   "In a sense, yes," Barresh said. "Anyway, the two Makuta's schemes were brought to a stop and they were sealed away, never to be seen again."

   The Turaga leaned forward, his green eyes glinting mysteriously. "However, rumor has it that, on this very day- the day which they were imprisoned- Sorefus and Necrosis escape their prison and return to Kora Nui, kidnapping Matoran for yet another experiment."

   "Yeah, right!" a Su-Matoran called out from the audience. "How is that even possible?"

   The Turaga's gaze turned onto the orange and white Matoran of Plasma. "You do not believe me, Seldaan?"

   The Su-Matoran crossed his arms. "Why would two Makuta create an army of undead Matoran?"

   A peculiar twinkle lit in Barresh's eye. "I never said they were an army."

   Seldaan blinked. "Well... what else could they be?"

   The Turaga sighed. "Your young minds are still tainted by the horror Metru Nui faced seventy thousand years ago." He then smiled. "I shan't taint it further with fables of horror. Off to bed with you all."

*  *  *

   "Deraln, why are you shaking?"

   "I'm not shaking," the De-Matoran said as he and Seldaan headed back for their huts. "I'm just... cold."

   "You're not spooked by Turaga Barresh's story, are you?" Seldaan asked. "You know none of it's true."

   "I know," Deraln said in an unconvincing manner. "But... what if it is?"

   "It's not," Seldaan snapped. "There's no such thing as undead Matoran, and if there were, then the Toa Kora would be able to stop them."

   Arriving at his home, Seldaan parted company from the Matoran of Sonics. "Good night."

   "Night," Deraln murmured as he continued his trek into the night, not knowing that it would be his last.

*  *  *

   "You really shouldn't tell them stories like that."

   Barresh laughed as he set his walking stick against the wall of his room, near his bed. "Where is your sense of humor, Toa Luna?"

   "It was replaced by my wisdom." The Toa Kora of Lightning folded her arms across her chest. "It's not just a matter of frightening Matoran with weak hearts, like that poor De-Matoran, but also giving nasty prank ideas to the others."

   The Turaga chuckled as he pulled back the sheets of his bed. "More experience for them if they ever become Toa, I say."

   Luna frowned. "I don't think scaring their little hearts out will-"

   "Bah!" The Turaga waved a dismissive hand as he climbed onto his berth. "They'll probably forget about it by tomorrow, anyway. Good night, Toa."

   With a sigh, the Toa of Lightning walked out of the Turaga's hut and began heading for her own. Along the way, she spotted a derelict, Toa-shaped figure limping through the Matoran village. By its red and yellow armor, she recognized it as her teammate, Toa Kemad.

   "Kemad?" she said tentatively. "What are you doing out here? Why are you limping?"

   The Toa of Fire looked up at her and Luna's heart skipped a beat. The Toa's normally green eyes behind his Kanohi Huna were dead and his mouth was merely a gaping, fanged maw in his mask.

   Luna brought out her Shock Trident and aimed its three tips at her fellow Toa. "Kemad, what's wrong with you?"

   The Toa responded by hurling a ball of flame at her. The Toa of Lightning dodged the attack and began charging towards her comrade. Once she was within a few feet of him, she stabbed the Trident's prongs into his chest armor and channeled her elemental energy through it. She had expected the shock to merely knock Kemad out unconscious, but instead the Toa of Fire's body crumpled to the ground, devoid of life.

   Before she could comprehend what had just happened, a loud screech diverted her attention away from her dead comrade and to the group of undead Rahi that were coming her way.

   Lovely, she thought.

*  *  *

   Seldaan was awoken by the sound of battle. Alerted, the Su-Matoran climbed out of his bed and poked his head through the door of his hut. Outside, dozens of Rahi creatures- varying in their shape and size- were attacking five of the Toa Kora. The sixth of their membership, Toa Kemad, was nowhere to be found.

   Before he could watch any of the battle, a clawed hand grabbed him by the shoulder and pulled him back inside. Seldaan turned around to see the source of the hand... and froze.

   A being colored in black and lime stood before him, green eyes staring at him from behind a wedge-shaped mask. At the mouth of the mask was an acid-tipped stinger.

   "Hold still, little one," Makuta Sorefus hissed. "This may sting a bit."

   The Matoran's screams could not be heard over the noise of battle.

*  *  *

   "I think that's the last of them," Toa Laselv said as he pulled his blade out of the Kikanalo he had slain. "I hope this doesn't break the Toa Code or something."

   "I think these Rahi were dead to begin with," said Toa Nuukor, placing a hand on a deceased Kraawa. "I could try using my mask power to find out."

   "Yes, do that," Luna said. "Perhaps the same happened to Kemad as well."

   Closing his eyes, the Toa of Earth activated his Mask of Psychometry and explored the past of the Kraawa he touched. Barely a moment had passed when his eyes snapped open.

   "Necrosis..." he murmured.

   "You mean the Makuta in the Turaga's tale?" Toa Rudax asked. "I thought that was just, you know, a story!"

   Nuukor shook his head. "It's not just a story...."

   "No kidding," Laselv muttered. "We've got company."

   The five Toa looked to see a tall being slowly approaching them, clad in black and blue armor with a silver mask adorning his face. In one hand, he carried a long scythe, and the other looked like a claw of razors. A tattered cape flowed behind him, brushing the ground.

   The Toa Kora held up their tools at the stranger. "State your business," Luna demanded.

   The being said nothing, though he did cease walking, standing ten feet away from the Toa. Raising his clawed hand, he suddenly conjured a blue and black orb, energy pulsing around its hemisphere. With a voice that sounded older than the dirt which he tread, Makuta Necrosis spoke.

   "Two minutes. Choose before I do."

   "Choose?" Toa Kolak repeated. "What does that mean?"

   "One of you dies to join your fallen brother. Two of you come with me to whence I come. And two of you remain to spread the Warning."

   "Mahi dung," Nuukor spat. "You're going down!"

   The Toa of Earth charged, his Seismic Hammer raised high. Nonchalantly, Necrosis drove the blade of his scythe into the Toa's midsection.

   "One of you dies."

   Raising his clawed hand, the Makuta cast two beams of energy, knocking Toa Luna and Laselv out unconscious.

   "Two accompany me."

   Rudax and Kolak prepared to attack but were rendered static by a mere gesture.

   "And you remain here. You are to say nothing of this night but one thing."

   The dead eyes behind the Makuta's Kanohi Tryna briefly glowed red.

   "The Bane of the Great Beings shall triumph over all."

   Behind the Makuta, a portal opened and Necrosis stepped through it, dragging his two captives behind him, while Sorefus and his souvenir flew in after them.

   When the portal closed, the two remaining Toa would remember nothing of the night but the Warning. And while many would take notice of the absence of Turaga Barresh and two Matoran, they would not know what to make of it, nor of the carcasses of two Toa and several Rahi.

   After all, they would never notice the illegible words inscribed on the wall by his bed.

They have broken out

The End 

Star Wars Invasion: Episode X, Chapter Twelve and Epilogue

Well, this is it. Started this story last year, and took nearly a full year to put it out on my blog. Enjoy!

AFTER THE STORM

   In the aftermath of the Glorian War's conclusion, there was much that needed to be done.

   With the death of Cal Omas, a new Chief of State had to be chosen. Given the circumstances, the Senate decided to go with the running candidate with the highest vote count at the time and elected Via Eerin as Chief of State. The female Mon Calamari's first act was to move the Galactic Alliance to Fondor while repairs were made to Coruscant and other victims of the war. Following this movement, several- some unexpected- changes were made.

   First and foremost, Corellia asked to rejoin the Alliance. Chief Eerin agreed, but only on the terms that Governal Aidel Saxan and Thrackan Sal-Solo stepped down from their positions, for it was they who made Corellia's secession difficult.

   Secondly, many people were rewarded for their part in the Battle of Coruscant and the war itself. General Hawk was made Supreme Commander of the Alliance's Defense Force, and the Imperial Remnant, Hapans, and the Mandalorians were permitted to expand their territory.

   And lastly, given the presumed demise of Xanus Baran, Kro Sadoon was made Grand Master of the Jedi Order. At the same time, the Dark Jedi Order dissolved and joined the light order, for they were no longer needed now that nothing was left to threaten the Force's balance.

   Amidst all of these changes, funerals were held to honor those who had fallen: Chief of State Cal Omas; Grand Master Xanus Baran; Commander Zanjaar Naar; and, most importantly, the man who helped bring an end to the Glorian Empire: Animus.

   Despite all of this, there was still one loose end left unaccounted for for some: Where was Toah Jarsan?

*  *  *

   Anakin had never been much fond of parties, preferring to bury himself with tinkering machines. But given recent events, he had decided to make an exception.

   Wookiee music echoed through the night as dozens of people gathered on Kashyyyk to celebrate their victory over the Glorians. Among them, Anakin spotted several families- Chewbacca's, the Antilles and the Fels, the Horns and the Terriks- as well as friends such as Jast Kyjar, Sev Nep and his teammates. Jokar and his squad, the Exiles, numerous Jedi, and others.

   As he stood back to observe the number of people who had come, Anakin almost did not notice his sister Jaina approaching him.

   "You won't believe what I found," she said, smiling with her arms behind her.

   "A boyfriend?" Anakin asked.

   Her smile almost became a scowl. "No, this."

   She brought her arms around to reveal the head of a golden protocol droid.

   Anakin's eyes widened. "Threepio?"

   "Master Anakin?" C-3PO's disembodied head said. "Is that you? Oh, thank goodness you're here! I'm in complete darkness! Save me!"

   Anakin grinned as he flipped a switch on the back of the droid's head. "Done."

   With a flicker, C-3PO's optical sensors turned on. "Oh, bless the Maker! I- where's my body?!"

   "Don't worry." Anakin chuckled. "I'll get you a new one."

   "Oh, joy," a sardonic voice said. "You found Goldenrod."

   Brother and sister turned to see their parents emerge from the crowd, along with R2-D2, Kane Skywalker, Chewbacca, and Lando Calrissian. Looking down at C-3PO's head, Han Solo smirked.

   "And here I was hoping to live the rest of the year without anymore grievances."

   "I beg your pardon, sir?" the protocol droid said. "What other grievances are you referring to? I thought that Sith business was finished. Artoo, just what is he talking about?"

   R2-D2 merely blurted out a sarcastic note.

   "My word, Artoo! Do watch your language!"

   As Anakin and the others laughed, a glint of blue light caught his eye. He turned to look over the railing of the tree platform they stood on... and gaped.

   Down below, near the Shadowlands, a party of spirits took place. Vapors of light danced about, every so often taking the shape of a figure. Amongst these figures, Anakin recognized several familiar faces, including his uncle Luke Skywalker, Master Baran, and a man who looked a lot like Toah Jarsan.

   Jaina had noticed the phenomenon as well, gawking as she watched. "Is that...?"

   "No," another voice said as Anakin's fellow Jedi Jaden Korr walked up to stand beside them. "That would be the Revanchist, I believe. If Toah had died, I'm sure we would have all felt it."

   Anakin was about to ask Jaden how he knew this when a dark-haired, middle-aged man in GA uniform approached them.

   "Ah, Kane," he said to the clone of Anakin's grandfather. "I've been looking for you."

   "What do you need, Wallen?" Kane asked.

   "Well, I was just wondering; since my lieutenant... left me." The detective shifted his feet slightly. "See, ever since that mission to Dromund Kaas, I thought we would make a good team. So... are you up to it?"

   Kane grinned. "You know, even as a Sith, I've had a craving for adventure. How can I say no to an offer like that?"

   Wallen chuckled uneasily. "Trust me, several have." He glanced at Anakin and the others, who were still staring in awe at the spectacle down below. "What's going on?" he asked.

   "See for yourself," Han said.

   As Wallen walked up to stand beside them, Anakin felt as if everything that had happened- from Toah Jarsan's mysterious message to the Star Forge's destruction- had purposely all led up to this. Everything was not aligned.

   As many would say, it was simply the Will of the Force.

EPILOGUE: THE WANDERERS

   "Think we should join them?"

   Toah Jarsan shook his head, smiling. "No, I think we would draw too much attention."

   Xemer looked back down at the party. "I still feel like I should apologize to Wallen."

   "Trust me," Atha Prime said. "There will come a time in which we reveal ourselves. But today's not that time."

   "Indeed," Shadow said, hanging his legs over the tree platform which he and the others sat on. "I rather like this idea of a nomadic lifestyle."

   "We need a name for us," Xemer said. "Something like... Nomads."

   "I myself like the name 'Wanderers'," Atha said. "It adds a... mysterious feel to it."

   "I concur," Shadow said.

   "I like my idea better." Xemer shrugged. "But I guess 'Wanderers' does have a ring to it."

   "'Wanderers' it is, then." Toah glanced at his watch. "How much longer should we stay out here?"

   "Maybe until the party ends," Xemer said, tapping his foot. "I like the music."

   Toah grinned. "Sounds good."

   With that, the four Wanderers sat back and enjoyed the view as the music played well into the night....

THE END

MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU

The Transformers, Issue 18: Expansion, Chapter Eight

THE OLD FALL, THE YOUNG RISE

   [Ageist much, title?]

   (Underground, Megatron and the Decepticons are still trying to dig towards Cybertron's core)

   Bombshell: Sir, we've found something!

   Megatron: What is it?

   Bombshell: Some sort of chamber....

   (Inside the chamber is a small blue orb of energy)

   Megatron: What the-? The spark... it's fading!

   Bombshell: Is... that a problem?

   Megatron: Of course it is! Cybertron is dying! If our world dies, I won't have one left to rule! We must do some-

   (Suddenly, the spark extracts its power towards Megatron and infuses the Decepticons leader with it. Meanwhile, on Earth, the Autobots are fighting against Nova Prime's henchmen)

   Ironhide: They keep coming!

   Minion: Die, Autobots!

   (Nearby, Optimus Prime is clashing blades with Nova Prime)

   Nova Prime: You cannot win! The Harvester is almost ready! Soon, the universe shall be-

   Optimus Prime: I'M SICK OF YOUR EXPANSION! (He punches Nova in the face. Yowza) I will not allow this!

   Nova Prime: Fool! You don't understand! You shall perish! (He then begins creating purple lightning. Groovy.)

   (Meanwhile, The Fallen is clashing with Atha Prime's spirit)

   The Fallen: Graah! Why have you returned, brother? How did you?

   Atha Prime: I came back to destroy you, of course. We are both outcasts, but you have Unicron's energies. I couldn't let you... (gestures at the Harvester)... take this!

   The Fallen: And how would you do that?

   Atha Prime: Simple. 

   (Without warning, he transfers his spirit into the Harvester. As a result, Nova looses control of his powers)

   Nova Prime: What the-?! My power! It's gone! No... no... NOOOO!

   (And then... Atha Prime possesses him!)

   Nova/Atha Prime: You! You and your Autobots are the ones who defeated me!

   Optimus Prime: Yes, Atha. It was I. And I can do it again.

   (Optimus then takes his axe and slices Nova down the middle, killing him. Talk about anti-climatic)

   Optimus Prime: Farewell, Nova Prime...

   (Despite this, however, Atha is still in control of the Harvester)

   The Fallen: You dare control my apprentice?!

   Atha Prime: And why does that bother you? I now have unlimited power!

   ???: No, you don't.

   (Good grief, this issue is random. A mystical hand comes out of nowhere and removes Atha's spirit from the Harvester.)

   Atha Prime: VECTOR PRIME?!

   Vector Prime: I cannot allow this, brother. Farewell.

   (And with that, Atha Prime is kaput)

   The Fallen: That was great and all. But I must be going.

   (Once the Fallen leaves, Nova's minions confront Vector Prime)

   Minion: Master! You killed our-

   (...And Vector Prime totally starts slaying them. In the end, the Autobots stand triumphant and Vector Prime approaches them)

   Optimus Prime: W-who are you?

   Vector Prime: I am Vector Prime. And I'm here to give you a warning: He is coming. Farewell. (And he leaves)

   (On Cybertron, Shockwave finds a crippled Megatron)

   Shockwave: Hook! Take him back to HQ!

   ???: Ahem...

   Shockwave: What the-

   Ultra Magnus: You're under arrest.

   Shockwave: Drat.

   (Two months later, Optimus Prime visits Megatron in his cell at the Stockade, a space station prison where all of the Decepticons are being held)

   Megatron: So... why are you here.

   Optimus Prime: Just to talk.

   Megatron: Talk. Yes.

   Optimus Prime: We've constructed an Autobot City.

   Megatron: Lovely. And...?

   Optimus Prime: And I'm training an apprentice, of sorts, to succeed me.

   Megatron: And if he does succeed you, what then?

   Optimus Prime: I am looking into becoming a Trion, actually.

   Megatron: Heh, "Optimus Trion". Has a catch to it.

   Optimus Prime: Yes, it does. Well, I must be going.

   Megatron: Yes, you go on in peace, Prime. A war is coming, and I intend to be a part of it.

   Optimus Prime: And we will always be ready... old friend.

   (Optimus leaves the cell, not noticing blue sparks of energy surrounding the Decepticon leader....)

   The end?

FEATURED CHARACTERS

   Autobots: Bluestreak, Cliffjumper, Ironhide, Jazz, Jetfire, Kup, Nightbeat, Optimus Prime, Ultra Magnus, Wheeljack

   Decepticons: Blitzwing, Bombshell, Megatron, Reflector, Shockwave, Skywarp, Starscream

   Others: Atha Prime, The Fallen, Nova Prime, Nova's Minions, Vector Prime

Star Wars Invasion: Episode X, Chapter Eleven

   The penultimate chapter.

NOTHING LEFT TO LOSE

   For all intents and purposes, the Battle of Coruscant was over.

   The Alliance owed much of its thanks to the massive giant who had suddenly appeared and begun crushing the Glorians with its feet. Not long after, Admiral Sovv reported that the Glorian feet was in disarray, with some even retreating.

   Then, a ball of flame ignited the sky. The Star Forge was destroyed.

   Many on the surface began cheering. The remaining Glorians threw down their arms and surrendered. The war was over.

   Or was it? Perhaps it was General Hawk's reluctance in trusting the Glorians to not have something up their sleeves. Or perhaps it was because no one knew who the Glorian leader was and if they were indeed on the Star Forge when it was destroyed.

   Either way, he was not yet ready to exhale in relief.

*  *  *

   Shortly after ejecting from the Star Forge, Anakin's escape pod had been retrieved by an Alliance cruiser, and its sole occupant was led to the bridge, where Admiral Vral Chaar stood. From there, Anakin watched as the Glorian fleet began to fall apart. Not long after, the Star Forge vanished in an orb of fire.

   It was done. Toah Jarsan has sacrificed himself to bring an end to the Glorian Empire and its war. He had given his life to save the galaxy a second time.

   ...Or had he? As much as Anakin was certain that Toah was gone, he could still feel the Jedi's presence through the Force.

   "Sir," a voice said. "We have another rescuee."

   Anakin and Chaar turned to see a Mon Calamari officer standing beside a Besalisk dressed in torn Jedi robes.

   "Master Kil!" Anakin said.

   Plun Kil gave him a rare smile. "In the flesh."

   "How did you get back? Where are the others who vanished?"

   Kil's smile faded. "I'm afraid most of them died in the explosion. I survived only because I was freed by an unexpected ally...."

   Anakin stepped back, just now feeling the great disturbance in the Force created by all of these deaths. "And Toah?"

   The Besalisk bit his lower lip. "He was with me when we escaped to the pods, but ended up taking separate ones. I lost sight of his pod when your cruiser retrieved mine."

   "He must've been picked up by another cruiser," Chaar said. "Our scanners are very sensi-"

   "Stars alive!" cried a bridge officer. "What's an exogorth doing here?"

   Anakin and the others turned to see exactly what the officer had mentioned; a massive space work flying through the wreckage of the Star Forge, pursuing a fleeing mynock. As the others looked on in bewilderment, Anakin smiled in realization. "Animus."

*  *  *

   "You're insane!" Waru cackled as he fled from the exogorth. "I know you, Animus! You served in my empire for a time. You probably only have ten minutes left to live!"

   "Probably." The space slug's voice boomed in Waru's mind. "But that should be enough time to kill you."

   Waru laughed again as he morphed into a Duinuogquin. "And they call me the crazy one."

   "Sometimes, crazy works." Moving faster than an average exogorth, Animus slammed his massive body into Waru's and the two giants went tumbling through space.

   As they brawled through the vacuum, Waru clawed at Animus with his numerous limbs. But now matter how much blood he drew, his constantly-morphing opponent kept striking back, more vicious than before. Feeling his strength beginning to wain, Waru attempted to breathe a blast of fire, to no avail. In short time, he was deprived of energy.

   But he was not keen on admitting defeat. As Waru backed away from Animus, who was now in the form of a winged creature, the latter chuckled. 

   "Your body's dying, Waru. So am I. And with no body to inhabit, your spirit will be nothing but an intangible phantom."

   Waru grinned. "Never underestimate someone not of your universe."

   Faster than one could say "Duinuogwuin", Waru forced his spirit out of the Avatar's body and shot towards Animus'. Once he was within his opponents mind, he had expected to be given full control of the shape-shifter's body. Instead, he was given an extreme world of pain.

   Voices thought silenced cried out again. He saw the burning stars of Horuset, Kashyyyk, and Kaal bursting out of the void of space and returning to their rightful place, along with their orbiting planets.

   "Your plans are being undone, Waru," Animus said. "The people whom you've killed are crying out in joy."

   "But what does this all mean?" Waru wondered. "Why can't I take over your body?"

   "Because it's time to go home."

   The moment those words had passed Animus' lips, the darkness of space began to part and a portal of light appeared before him. Watching through the shape-shifter's eyes, Waru recognized the realm beyond the portal to be his universe.

   His dying universe. The universe from which he and Valtheran hailed from.

   "No," Waru murmured. "Not there... any thing but there! You'll kill us both!"

   "That's the plan," Animus said with a grin. "Because, frankly, I've nothing else to lose."

   Waru could do nothing but scream as Animus carried him through the portal. As the rift between universes closed, the Watcher had seen his last.

The Transformers, Issue 17: Expansion, Chapter Seven

OPERATION: COUNTDOWN

   (Starts out with Kup and a team of Autobots hiding at an outpost on Cybertron (I think))

   Kup: Any sign of them yet?

   Longrack: Nope, but Thunderclash's group is here.

   Kup (to Thunderclash): Well?

   Thunderclash: They've captured our command post....

   Kup: Slag! That was our only base left!

   Ultra Magnus: I've assembled and sent the Wreckers.

   Kup: *sigh* It won't work, lad. It just won't work.

   Ultra Magnus: But-

   Kup: They'll just become another addition to the losses of this war!

   Ironfist: I wouldn't underestimate the Wreckers, Kup....

   (The Autobots look outside a window and see the Decepticon city Polyhex in flames)

   Kup: What in the blazes...

   (At Polyhex, the Wreckers are kicking butt as usual.)

   Impactor: Keep shooting!

   Thrust: Don't let them near the fortress!

   Impactor (over communicator): Twin Twist, drill under to get into the fortress!

   Twin Twist: Right!

   (Twin Twist begins to drill underground beneath the 'cons feet)

   Thrust: No! Drillhorn, stop him!

   (Drillhorn converts to his drill tank mode and meets his Autobot counterpart underground)

   Drillhorn: Heh heh heh!

   Twin Twist: Uh, oh...

   Springer: Impactor, we must retreat!

   Impactor: Retreat?! We're Wreckers! We never retreat!

   Springer: Well, can we at least regroup? We're loosing men... fast!

   Impactor: Fine... Wreckers, regroup!

   (The Wreckers transform and begin to flee) Thrust: Hey! Follow them!

   Impactor (reverting to robot mode): Go! I'll hold them off!

   Dirge: Death comes to those who dare-

   Impactor: Shut up.

   (Impactor stabs Dirge in the face with his harpoon hand, killing the Seeker)

   Thrust: Dirge!

   Ramjet: Heh, brave of you, Autobot! Bludgeon, your turn!

   Impactor: I'm not afraid of-

   (Bludgeon lunges at Impactor and stabs him in the chest, killing him)

   Impactor: Ack!

   Springer: Impactor! (Clashes blades with Bludgeon)

   Bludgeon: Fool! You dare challenge me?!

   Springer: Yeah. I dare. (He then slices Bludgeon's arm off)

   Bludgeon: I hate you....

   Springer: Let's go, Wreckers....

   (Back at the hideout, the Wreckers return)

   Ultra Magnus: Well?

   Springer: Impactor is dead. The 'cons overcame us.

   Ultra Magnus: Then we have no choice. Ironfist, prepare the Steelhaven.

   (Later, the Autobots board the Elite Guard ship and take off, evading Decepticon defenses. Back on Earth, the Autobots plan out their strategy against Nova Prime)

   Optimus Prime: Hot Spot, come in.

   Hot Spot: We've got the humans secured, Prime!

   Optimus Prime: Good. Autobots, stay here. I'll handle Nova Prime.

   (Later, Optimus confronts his predecessor amongst the beams of energy shooting up towards the sky)

   Optimus Prime: Nova! It ends here!

   Nova Prime: So it does. It's too late! The Harvester's beams have united. My master is coming!

   Optimus Prime: Atha Prime?

   Nova Prime: No. I don't know how you know that name, but no... someone more powerful. He is THE FALLEN! And he is here!

   (At that moment, a red beam of energy shoots towards the Harvester.)

   Nova Prime: Wait....

 (...While an orange one lands near Nova Prime, eventually forming the Fallen)

   Nova Prime: Master?!

   (Suddenly, Atha Prime's spirit appears before the three (one ex-) Primes.)

   The Fallen: You.

   Atha Prime: Brother.

   The Fallen: I thought you were dead.

   Atha Prime: I am. And soon, so will you. And I'll make sure I am the one who ends your life!

   (Meanwhile, on Cybertron, Megatron contacts Soundwave, who is leading a team to the planet's core.)

   Megatron: Soundwave, report.

   Soundwave: We are successful.

   Megatron: Excellent. Move out!

   (Back on Earth)

   The Fallen: What are you going to do? You're just a spirit!

   Atha Prime: I have my ways. (He then... just leaves)

   Nova Prime: Master?

   (Then the Fallen leaves! Gosh, this issue isn't making any sense. Anyway, Optimus then confronts Nova. Again.)

   Optimus Prime: You no longer deserve the title of Prime!

   Nova Prime: That's what they all say. I guess this is it. The fate of the worlds ends here!

   To be concluded!

FEATURED CHRACTERS

   Autobots: Bumblebee, Kup, First Aid, Flak, Hot Spot, Impactor, Ironfist, Ironhide, Jazz, Longrack, Optimus Prime, Rack'N'Ruin, Roadbuster, Springer, Thunderclash, Topspin, Twin Twist, Ultra Magnus, Whirl

   Decepticons: Bludgeon, Dirge, Drillhorn, Megatron, Ramjet, Shockwave, Soundwave, Starscream, Thrust

   Others: Atha Prime, The Fallen, Nova Prime

Star Wars Invasion: Episode X, Chapter Ten

THINGS FALL APART

   "The charges are set!"

   Toah Jarsan barely heard Anakin as he parried another attack from Darth Scythe. The Sith Lord was very skilled in the seventh form of lightsaber combat, and Toah found it difficult to counter his ferocious attacks. However, when the Twi'lek raised his blade for a diving slash, Toah saw an opportunity and seized it, using the Force to push his opponent away.

   With Scythe momentarily distracted, Toah reached into his pocket and brought out the device which would detonate the charges. To Anakin, he said, "Get to an escape pod and go. Hurry!"

   "But what about you?" Anakin called back.

   "Don't worry about me! Just go!"

   Knowing that it was useless to argue, Anakin fled from the chamber while Toah turned back to the Star Forge's reactor, aiming the remote control at it.

   This is for everything, he thought. For everything we've fought for.

   He waited until he heard the sound of an escape pod launching from its pad. He then lifted a finger over the detonator and-

   -Let out a scream of pain as a crimson blade of light cut though his arm. As he collapsed to his knees, he heard the sound of crunching metal as a booted foot crushed the remote.

   His eyes bleary with pain, Toah looked up to see Darth Scythe standing over him. The Twi'lek's normally yellow eyes were glowing red, almost the same shade as his lightsaber.

   "I won't have it," Scythe growled in a voice that was not his own. "I won't let a mere mortal- a Jedi, at that- put a stop to my vendetta.

   Using the Force to make the pain of his severed arm subside enough for him to speak, Toah said, "Vendetta? What did anyone do to you to cause galactic havoc?"

   The possessed Sith Lord glowered. "I am not of this galaxy. My brothers and I come from another realm; one far older one, and far more advanced. Alas, it was ruined by a race from this galaxy, a race you call Celestials.

   "Since then, my brethren have sought for ways to avenge our home and found an opportunity in the primitive Sith, influencing their beliefs so that they would soon rise to conquer."

   "And the Glorians?" Toah asked, beginning to recognize the spirit's story as that of the Sith gods'.

   "I only recently made contact with them after Vorath failed," the possessed Sith said. "Again, I saw an opportunity and seized it."

   "Funny. So do I."

   At the sound of the voice, Darth Scythe turned around to see Jedi Master Plun Kil standing before him.

   The Besalisk cracked all four of his knuckles. "Stand still, tentacle head. You and I have unfinished business."

*  *  *

   What was going on?

   Standing on the highest platform on the Star Forge's viewing deck, Necros watched both Waru and Animus' conflict and the Battle of Coruscant. While the former seemed to be a match, the latter was turning in the enemy's favor. Glorian ships were scrambling, crashing into one another. The only thing that could possibly explain this this disarray was-

   Necros snarled. Starka. The Supreme Commander was dead. And to make matters worse, the computers were indicating that one of the Star Forge's prisoners had escaped.

   And yet... he could not muster the drive to do anything about it. The destruction of the Glorian Fleet was inevitable and the enemy would then focus on attacking the Star Forge. And since Valtheran had seemed to divert his attention to possible saboteurs....

   All of his plans and machinations had been for nothing. The only thing he could do was simply wait for them to end.

*  *  *

   Darth Scythe, possessed by the Sith god, staggered back, recoiling from Plun Kil's initial attack. Snarling, the Sith Lord raised his hands and barraged the Jedi Master with Force lightning. To Toah's surprise, the Besalisk did not back down, instead holding his ground and continuing to approach the Sith.

   "Fall!" Scythe bellowed. "Why won't you fall?"

   "Because unlike you," Plun Kil growled, "I have a will."

   Raising his four arms, the Jedi Master began to absorb the Sith's lightning until it formed orbs of energy in his palms. Then, with all of his might, he pushed outwards and sent the lightning back at the man who had unleashed it.

   With a wail, Darth Scythe was launched through the air. His flight was abruptly ended when his body crashed into the reactor, breaking through its spherical shell. As a shrapnel of metal pierced through the Sith Lord's chest, energy began to leak from the gap he had created.

   Turning to Toah, Plun Kil smirked. "I think it's by time we left this place."

   Toah nodded. "Couldn't agree more."

*  *  *

   Everything was falling apart. Literally.

   Breaking away from his fight with Animus, Waru stared in horror as fire began to tear apart at the Star Forge's walls.

   No. After everything I've worked on... I won't let this happen!

   Reverting to his human form, Animus grinned at him. "So much for your plans."

   Ignoring him, Waru charged towards the viewport, which Emperor Necros solemnly stood before.

   "It's over," the Emperor was murmuring. "We've failed."

   "Silence!" Waru barked as he grabbed him by the collar and tossed him at the viewport, breaking the glass. As the deck began to empty of air, Waru turned back to Animus and grinned. "Salutations."

   With that, he jumped through the gap and morphed into a mynock. As he fled from the crumbling station, he began to wonder why Animus had not taken pursuit. He soon stood corrected when a massive exogorth burst through where he had escaped.

   Ah, Waru thought. I suppose size does matter.

The Transformers, Issue 16: Expansion, Chapter Six

CURSED LEGACY

   (We start out with pictures of the Matrix of Leadership and those who had carried it. The narration will give you a better idea)

   Narrator person: We are Primus. We are Prima. We are Nova Prime. We are Zeta Prime. We are Sentinel Prime. We are Optimus Prime. We were created by Primus himself to preserve all Transformer life. But now that the Fallen brother had returned, all life will be doomed. Prima. Nova Prime. Zeta Prime. Sentinel Prime. Optimus Prime. We are one.

   (On Cybertron, which is back under Decepticon control thanks to Megatron's return)

   Shockwave: It is a pleasure to have you back, my liege.

   Megatron: Not now, Shockwave. Banzai-Tron, come in.

   Banzai-Tron: Agent Banzai-Tron, reporting.

   Megatron: How is Operation: Raid going?

   Banzai-Tron: We are about to start Phase Two, my liege.

   Megatron: Excellent. Megatron, out. [That was quick] Shockwave, send the Ultracons to eliminate the remaining Elite Guard.

   Shockwave: Yes, my liege. Ratbat, this is Shockwave. The Ultracons are to begin their mission.

   Ratbat: Right. Ultracons... awaken!

   (Meanwhile, at the Autobot base on Earth)

   Prowl: You okay, Prime?

   Optimus Prime: Yes, Prowl, I'm fine. It's just... I'm trying to figure out who's responsible for all this- Wait. I've found something.

   (He brings up an image of Nova Prime)

   Optimus Prime: Nova Prime. Last leader of the Guardians. Hmm... Expansion... Harvester? Let's see-

   (He comes up with an image of the Harvester thing in Egypt)

   Optimus Prime: Oh, Primus...

   Bumblebee: What is it?

   Optimus Prime: No....

   Prowl: Prime?

   Optimus Prime: Prowl, secure all communication systems.

   Prowl: Okay....

   Optimus Prime: Perceptor, send a warning to all human governments!

   Bumblebee: Prime, what's wrong?!

   Optimus Prime: Not now, Bumblebee. Ironhide, get all defenses online! We have a rough day up ahead.

   (Elsewhere, on Cybertron)

   Banzai-Tron: Gutcruncher, take Combat Team with you. Krok, Treadshot, you're with me.

   Slicer: Slicer and Axer, reporting in. [Oh, no! It's the Attack of the ACTION MASTERS!]

   Banzai-Tron: Good.

   Gutcruncher: The Autobot command post is this way.

   (The Decepticons arrive at the command post, where a pair of Autobot guards try to stop them)

   Guard #1: Halt!

   Guard #2: No 'con allowed-

   Gutcruncher: Shut up. (He shoots and kills the two guards and the 'cons enter the base)

   Banzai-Tron: Slicer, you know your duties.

   (At the Computer Center-)

   Mainframe: Commander, this is Mainframe. The Central Computer's been sliced!

   Push-Button: Er, they're trying to break in, sir.

   (The Decepticons kick the door in and enter the room)

   Push-Button: Ahh!

   Banzai-Tron: Seize them!

   (At the Command Center-)

   Thunderclash: Magnus, we're need to evacuate! There's been a security breach!

   (The Autobots soon begin evacuating) Thunderclash: Move it!

   Slicer: Perfect. Operation: Raid is a success.

   (On Earth, a bunch of beams of energies are shooting towards the sky, caused by Nova Prime)

   Ironhide: Leaking lubricants. What is this?

   Optimus Prime: I don't know, Ironhide. And I'm afraid to find out.

   (Flashback! To six million years ago!)

   Jhiaxus: Nova? We're ready.

   Nova Prime: Right. Zeta, I'm leaving you in charge.

   Zeta Prime: Yes, sir.

   (Nova's ship leaves and we flash forward a thousand years later, where Nova Prime and his crew end up in the Dead Universe and face their future master)

   Nova Prime: Oooh. What the-? (A claw grabs him) *Hurk!*

   The Fallen: You dare disrupt by slumber?

   Nova Prime: W-who are you?

   The Fallen: My name's been lost for eons. Call me the Fallen.

   Nova Prime: Let me... go!

   The Fallen: If you insist... but on one condition: you follow me and my plans.

   Nova Prime: What... are your... plans?

   The Fallen (begins showing holograms): This is a Harvester. It can absorb a star's power. I need that power for my master. With that, the universe will be made in our image, similar to your "expansion" ideas. Join me, and everything shall be yours. Everything....

   (Present!)

   Nova Prime:... Shall be mine!

   (On Cybertron....)

   Starscream: So, now that we have taken over half of the planet... what do we do now?

   Megatron: Excellent question, for once. (He shows the Seeker a... thingmajig)

   Starscream: What is that?

   Megatron: It is the AllSpark, Cybertron's core. Once I find out the entrance to the core, I will be able to control Cybertron!

   (Elswhere, Totally-Not-Sideways from issue...12? observes Megatron's boasts)

   Totally-Not-Sideways: Don't be so sure, Megatron. You have a whole lot ahead of ya'. (Cue evil laughter)

   To be continued [Yeah, not my best. Mostly filler]

FEATURED CHARACTERS

   Autobots: Bumblebee, Ironhide, Mainframe, Optimus Prime, Perceptor, Prowl, Push-Button, Thunderclash, Ultra Magnus

   Decepticons: Axer, Banzai-Tron, Gutcruncher, Krok, Megatron, Ratbat, Shockwave, Slicer, Starscream, Treadshot

   Others: The Fallen, Jhiaxus, Nova Prime, Totally-Not-Sideways, Zeta Prime

Star Wars Invasion: Episode X, Chapter Nine

SLAVES TO THE SYSTEM

   "Here he comes."

   Necros gave Waru a bewildered look. "Who?"

   "Animus."

   At that moment, the floor beneath them quaked as the massive tendrils of a sarlacc broke through the steel plates. They then began to shrink and merge together, eventually forming the shape of a burly, dark-skinned man.

   "And so comes forth the hero," Waru said, a wicked grin on his face. "Which mighty feat do you wish to accomplish today? My death, perhaps?"

   "Oh, no," Animus growled. "It's much more personal than that."

   The large man cracked his knuckles and did the same to his shoulders and neck. 

   "I'm going to make you regret that you even existed in the first place."

   Waru's grin grew wider. "Ambitious, indeed."

   Before Necros' eyes, a pair of wings began to sprout out of the Avatar's back as the Watcher used his shape-shifting abilities to take on the form of a small, bipedal dragon.

   "Allow me to quash your futile dreams."

*  *  *

   The sound of lightsabers clashing rang in Anakin's ears as he began to attack proton charges onto the Star Forge's reactor. As he did so, he started to feel as if the reactor was emitting Dark Side energy, though perhaps it was simply coming from Darth Scythe, or perhaps-

   Anakin did not finish the thought for the third charge he was about to attach was suddenly flying out of his hand. He turned around in time to see it meet Scythe's lightsaber blade.

   "If you do not wish to die today," the Sith Lord said, "I would leave now."

   "If you do not wish to kill us," Toah said, preparing to lunge at him, "then perhaps you should leave."

   "I am as much of a slave as those who built this station," Scythe said. "I have no choice."

   "Then neither do I."

   Toah charged towards the Twi'lek and their duel resumed, allowing Anakin to take the opportunity to continue attaching the proton charges.

*  *  *

   Animus, in the form of a reek, charged towards Waru, his cranial horn aimed for his opponents chest. Flapping his wings, the Watcher easily evaded the attack and Animus ended up crashing into a vat of some sort.

   "Congratulations," Waru cackled. "You've just killed Commander Doran Krotan of the Imperial Remnant."

   Animus reverted to his human form to gaze at the damage he had caused. "What...?"

   "Oh, I failed to mentioned something." Waru grinned wickedly. "When the Star Forge was completed, I placed all of those who built it in vats all around this station, so that Valtheran could use their life forces to feed himself."

   Animus turned to face him, snarling.

   "Oh, don't worry about it," Waru said. "They were going to die anyway."

   "Then how about you join them?" Altering his form into that of a reek's again, Animus let out a roar and charged again.

*  *  *

   For the first time in his career as Supreme Commander of the Glorian Empire, General Starka was disquieted.

   They had been winning. The enemy's numbers had been reduced from thousands to hundreds. Victory was assured. What could possibly be perturbing him?

   "Sir," a bridge officer called. "An unidentified ship has just docked in the main hangar."

   Starka half rose from his seat. "How did it get permission to dock?"

   "It didn't," the officer said. "I don't even know how it got through our scanners!"

   Turning to the guards stationed at the bridge's entrance, Starka ordered, "Ward off our visitor. Do not let them anywhere near this bridge."

   "Too late."

   Before Starka could figure out the source of the voice, the four guards screamed out and dropped dead, an axe-wielding crimson titan standing over them.

   "Sorry about that," the newcomer said. "I didn't think the door was going to open."

   Doing his best to keep calm, Starka brought out his blaster and aimed it at the stranger. "Who are you?"

   "These days, they call me Atha Prime," the armored man said. "Who 'they' are matters not; you won't live to find out."

   Starka rolled his eyes. "Meaningless words from yet another aspiring hero. Please put your weapon down so that I may kill you."

   "Sure thing." Letting his axe clatter to the floor, Atha Prime charged towards the general and slammed his large fist into Starka's mask, shattering the false face and exposing the Glorian's pale, wrinkled visage.

   "Ah, I recognize you," Atha growled. "You were a prominent critic of my enterprises."

   Starka stared at him, incredulous. "What are you talking about?"

   Instead of answering him, Atha threw another punch. This time, Starka reflexively dodged it and morphed his arm into a hammer. He swung it at the crimson titan but his attack was intervened by a massive fist seizing his arm.

   "I'm really in no mood to play," Atha Prime murmured. "Forgive me for making this visit short."

   With that, he threw Starka at the bridge's viewport and the general crashed through the transparisteel glass. Thinking quickly, he changed his form into that of a Givin's to survive the vacuum of space. From there, he watched as his men flew out after him, too busy panicking to do the same thing as he did, instead becoming lifeless husks in space.

   Soon, much to Starka's surprise, only Atha Prime stood on the Doomsday's bridge. Even more surprisingly, he managed to carry out his voice to Starka, possibly by telepathy.

   "Clever thinking, Starka. However, you forget one thing."

   Starka barely noticed a dart shoot out from Atha's armored glove. As he recoiled in pain, he felt his skin begin to warp....

   "Mammon Hoole is always one step ahead."

   The general's eyes widened in realization as his body reverted to its default form. The name of his long-reviled rival was the last thing that passed through his mind.

*

   Author's note:... And yet, said name was never mentioned at all by Starka until now. Ah, well.

The Transformers, Issue 15: Expansion, Chapter Five

THE HARVESTER, PART 2: LEGEND

   (Opens up with Optimus and a team of Autobots returning to the Harvester device in Egypt)

   Optimus Prime: Here we are; there it is. Wheeljack, analyze it.

   Wheeljack: Well, it's older than Kup, that's for sure.

   Gears: You shoulda' seen all of the weirdos in there!

   Optimus Prime: Quiet, Gears. Prowl, Jazz, Wheeljack, come with me inside.

   (Meanwhile, at Decepticon HQ)

   Megatron: Decepticons! It is time for us to strike! Follow me!

   (The Decepticons transform and head for Egypt. Once there, Ironhide is the first to detect them)

   Ironhide: I'm gettin' a reading!

   Skywarp: You first, 'cracker! [That's not nice]

   Thundercracker: If you insist.

   (The blue Seeker begins unleashing sonic booms while Ironhide and the Autobots fire at him)

   Ironhide: Decepticons!

   Thundercracker: Is that your best shot?

   Sideswipe: Shut up!

   Sunstreaker: I think it's jet judo time!

   Thundercracker: No! Not that!

   (The Autobot twins jump onto the Seeker, who tries in vain to shake them off)

   Thundercracker: Arrgh! Get off!

   (Meanwhile, Blitzwing converts to tank mode and fires at the other Autobots)

   Blitzwing: You're goin' down, Auto-butts!

   Ratchet?: "Auto-butts"? C'mon, you can do better than that!

   Blitzwing: Shut up!

   Soundwave: Laserbeak, Buzzsaw, eject. Operation: Autobot Annihilation!

   (Laserbeak and Buzzsaw launch from Soundwave's chest and attack the Autobots. Meanwhile, inside the temple with Optimus, Jazz, Prowl, and Wheeljack....)

   Jazz: Door's melted shut.

   Optimus Prime: Hmm. Stand back.

   (Optimus blasts the door open and the four Autobots go inside the chamber, with more Pyramid Guardians following them) [The Pyramid Guardians, again, resemble Movie Decepticons]

   Prowl: I hear something....

   Optimus Prime: So do I....

   Not-Long Haul: Halt! You dare return to the Temple of Primes?

   Not-Mixmaster: You shall not leave alive!

   Not-Long Haul: State your name and business... not that it matters.

   Optimus Prime: I am Optimus Prime, leader of-

   Not-Long Haul: You hold the name of Prime?!

   Not-Mixmaster: Great Matrix!

   Optimus Prime: Yes, I am-

   Not-Long Haul: Say no more, master!

   Not-Rampage: You and your comrades may enter the Temple's main chamber.

   Not-Mixmaster: Farewell, Master Prime.

   Optimus Prime: Right.... (The Autobots enter the chamber)

   Prowl: Oh, my....

   Jazz: Whoa.

   Optimus Prime: By Primus....

   Wheeljack: I'm gonna cry.

   (Before them stand giant statues of the first Thirteen, though one of them stands taller than the rest)

   Optimus Prime: Prima, the first Transformer... ever.

   Prowl: And the source of this thing's power, no doubt....

   (Outside, back at the battle, Megatron punches Ironhide's lights out while the other Autobots lay defeated)

   Megatron: Shall we enter this pyramid?

   (Inside)

   Not-Long Haul: Halt! You shall not pass!

   (Megatron casually blasts the Pyramid Guardian, killing him. Inside the main chamber)

   SFX: Boom! Boom!

   Jazz: I hear something... and it doesn't sound cool.

   (The Decepticons enter) Megatron: Mind if I drop in?

   Optimus Prime: Megatron! I thought you were dead!

   Megatron: I got better. Decepticons, attack!

   (Meanwhile, Nova Prime and his buddies prepare to activate the Harvester)

   Jhiaxus: They're still in there.

   Nova Prime: No matter. It can't wait. Begin the Expansion!

   (Back inside the Temple, Optimus and co. face off against the Decepticons)

   Optimus Prime: I should have finished you a long time ago!

   Megatron: You say that now, but would you have said that back then, Prime? Would you have said that six million years ago? Would you, Prime?

   Optimus Prime: I....

   (Suddenly, the Temple trembles as the Harvester activates. Outside, Nova Prime and his minions surround the device as it shoots towards Earth's sun)

   Nova Prime: Yes! YES! IT'S BEGUN!

   (Inside the Temple, the ceiling begins to collapse. Again.)

   Optimus Prime: What's going on?!

   Jazz: Let's scurry, dawgs! [Yes. He said "dawgs". I hope I never have to type that again]

   (The Autobots do so and both factions retreat from the Temple)

   Megatron: Retreat!

   Optimus Prime: Move out!

   Nova Prime: Excellent.... [He says that a lot, doesn't he?]

   (Later, back at the Autobot base/Ark)

   Jazz: Optimus, reports say that that device thing stopped. That was the weirdest thing in my life!

   Optimus Prime: Yes... it was.

   (At the Nemesis) Megatron: Reflector, start the engines! We're leaving!

   (The Decepticon warship launches from Earth and returns to Cybertron, where Shockwave awaits them. Meanwhile, in the Dead Universe....)

   Nova's Master: I have waited far too long. Go.

   Nova Prime: Yes, master!

   To be continued [Yes, the ending made no sense whatsoever]

FEATURED CHARACTERS

   Autobots: Bumblebee, Gears, Ironhide, Jazz, Mirage, Optimus Prime, Prowl, Ratchet?, Sideswipe, Sunstreaker, Wheeljack

   Decepticons: Blitzwing, Buzzsaw, Laserbeak, Megatron, Reflector, Skywarp, Soundwave, Starscream, Thundercracker

   Others: Jhiaxus, Nova Prime, Nova's Master, Nova's Minions, Pyramid Guardians

Star Wars Invasion: Episode X, Chapter Eight

COUNTDOWN TOWARDS EXTINCTION

   At first, it had started out all right: Toah Jarsan had docked his vessel on to the Star Forge and then entered the station via a pressure tunnel. Once inside, he began moving through the station, slightly alarmed by the lack of guards throughout it. However, by the time he had reached the second deck, Toah suddenly dropped to his knees, panting heavily.

   He was aware of disturbances in the Force, having felt such occurrences before. However, those were normally portrayed via headaches or a light punch in the chest; not like this. No, this disturbance ran far deeper than any he had felt before.

   His clone- the man who called himself the Revanchist- was dead.

   Toah rose to his feet, his whole legs feeling numb. He could still hear his "brother"'s dying screams ringing his head. At that moment, just as he was about to continue his journey to the command deck, a portal opened before him and two men stepped out, one of them looking very familiar.

   "Anakin?" Toah said.

   "Toah?" the other responded.

   Anakin's large companion smirked. "I take it you two know each other?"

   "Yes," Anakin said, smiling. "He's a Jedi."

   "Was," Toah said, almost reflexively. "Anyway, there's no time for reunions. This station must be stopped before it can finish siphoning Coruscant's sun."

   "Ah, good thing we're on the same page," Anakin's companion said. "You and Anakin can work on destroying the Star Forge, then. I shall deal with its... owners."

   "I take it you know how to destroy it?" Toah asked Anakin.

   The latter nodded. "Yes, follow me."

*  *  *

   "You cannot hide, Shadow." Eclipse's voice managed to carry through the clamorous sounds of the battle, though Shadow knew that only he could hear the other agent's threats. "The Watcher will discover your betrayal and make short work of you."

   Shadow, still in his scurrier form, came to a stop somewhere amongst the Glorians' army lines. This was it, he realized. There was no turning back. He had to do what needed to be done.

   "I know what you're planning," Eclipse growled. "Do you have any idea on how stupid you are? You may be able to decimate our army, but it will do nothing to delay the inevitable."

   "Watch me," Shadow replied.

   Eclipse paused, no doubt slightly taken aback by Shadow's defiance, before saying, "Are you that willing to sacrifice yourself for a lost cause?"

   "Let's find out."

   With that, Shadow's form began to shift. In an instant, where once stood a scurrier, a massive amalgamation of creatures of all shapes and sizes emerged from the crowd of Glorian warriors and began its carnage, starting with the man whom it once considered its "boss".

*  *  *

   Toah followed Anakin through the several corridors that comprised the Star Forge's second deck until they reached an elevator which transported them to the Command Center. Upon reaching it, the two of them then raced for the core reactor.

   "It's sure to be heavily guarded," Anakin said as they ran. "That must be why we haven't encountered any Glorians yet."

   However, much to their surprise, the giant metallic orb which served as the reactor was devoid of guards of any sort. In fact, they soon realized that they were the only ones in the Command Center.

   "This is just too easy," Toah said, shaking his head. "This feels like a trap."

   "Because it is, Jedi."

   Toah and Anakin turned around to see a red-skinned male Twi'lek standing before them, clad in the black robes traditional of a Sith Lord.

   Toah's eyes narrowed. "And just who are you?"

   "My name is Darth Scythe," the Twi'lek said. "I was one of the Sith under Darth Vorath's command. After his demise, I took leadership over those who remained and brought them to Korriban."

   "Were you there when Korriban vanished?" Anakin asked.

   "Yes," Scythe said, "and no. I was indeed present on Korriban when the Glorians transported it. However, I managed to escape via a portal I had discovered shortly after our arrival.

   "I had, at first, theorized that the device would allow me to travel through time. Unfortunately, it only achieved what the Glorians intended it: it transported me to Lehon, where they were constructing a new Star Forge.

   "I was able to persuade the Glorians to spare me from their extensive labor and was instead put in charge of overseeing those whom the Glorians subjugated to work on this station. Once it was completed, I was placed here to guard the core reactor."

   "So, you're here to stop us," Toah muttered.

   "I'm afraid so," Scythe said. "If I was given the choice, I would destroy this station without a second thought. Alas, I am just another slave."

   "I'm sorry to hear that," Toah said, his tone devoid of any empathy. "We came here to do one thing- to destroy this weapons of mass destruction- and I won't let you get in our way."

   "That's fine," the Twi'lek said, a blade of scarlet energy appearing in his hand. "Because I came here to destroy you."

   The Sith Lord lunged and Toah, for the first time in years, activated his lightsaber.