The Transformers, Issue 86: Final Conflict, Chapter Thirteen

1000 POSTS BABY! (give or take)

TILL ALL ARE ONE

    (Having just blown up Unicron, Orion Pax and Megastorm confront Rodimus Prime)

    Rodimus Prime: Why, Optimus? How could you have done this?

    Orion Pax: It had to be done, or else Unicron would've destroyed us all.

    Rodimus Prime: No. He would've saved our race. You're so blind--

    Orion Pax: You're the blind one! If you had succeeded, Unicron would've devoured all of us!

    Rodimus Prime: No... we were gods once. All of us. But today... there'll only be one!

    Orion Pax: And it won't be you. [burn]

    (Rodimus lunges at Orion and tackles him to the ground. Megastorm attempts to sneak up on him but is shot down by the evil Prime. Orion then lunges and punches him to the ground)

    Rodimus Prime: Optimus... all I ever wanted was the survival of our race. You must see why I had to betray you.

    Orion Pax: You didn't need to betray us.

    Rodimus Prime: Yes, I did! Think... if Optimus Prime was put in my shoes... what would he've done?

    Orion Pax: He would've done his best to save both worlds, but he would never make a deal with a Decepticon. [but like you're teaming up with their leader. Hypocrite]

    Rodimus Prime: Your Prime's bot through and through, Optimus. DIE, TRAITOR!

    (Orion blasts him through the chest)

    Orion Pax: My name is Orion Pax.

    Rodimus Prime: Cybertron... I'm sorry. (then he dies. rip emo sigh)

    Megastorm: I take it that it's over?

    Orion Pax: Yes. It is.

    Orion Pax: (narration) But it's not truly the end. It heralds a new beginning. The war has ended at last, and the Autobots and Decepticons have finally made peace. The Prime dynasty has ended, for it had become too corrupt, so the Matrix has been returned to the greatest of all Primes. [Optimus, natch. So biased] 

    We've relocated to Gorlam Prime and have began building a new home, but never again shall we forget other worlds.

    In any war, there'll be calms between the storms, days when we lost faith, days when our allies turn against us. But the day will never come when we forsake the universe and freedom.

    I am Orion Pax, and I send this message to the stars: We are here. We are home.

    Jetfire: Done yet?

    Orion Pax: Yes, Jetfire. I'm done. [finally]

    Jetfire: Good, 'cause we have a new world to build, and we can't do it without ya! Welcome home, hero.

    (We then cut to the true hero of this saga as Fistfight/GO-4 gets a hotel room and enjoys life to the fullest on a beautiful beach.)

    (Live on, sugar bear. Live on)

    THE END

    [so we're just gonna trust Starscream now? okay then]

FEATURED CHARACTERS

    Autobots: Blurr, Bumblebee, Fastfix, Heavypunch, Jetfire, Kup, Orion Pax, Prowl, Ratchet, Rodimus Prime, Sideswipe, Thunderclash, Turborun, Ultra Trion, Wheeljack

    Decepticons: Bladespin, Cyclonus, Fistfight, Irontread, Megastorm, Scourge, Starscream

The Transformers, Issue 85: Final Conflict, Chapter Twelve

   This is it. The penultimate issue to this entire series. Ho boy, has this been a long time coming. I started posting transcripts of these issues way back in 2013. Five freaking years. I doubt I'll ever get around to doing this for the other comics I've made (though admittedly they don't have as many issues as this series)

ARMAGEDDON, PART 3: OUR DARKEST HOUR

   (Orion Pax flies towards Megastorm and co., ready to kick their butts)

    Shockwave: What in Primus' name?

    Orion Pax: RODIMUS! (he sucker punches Cyclonus and Scourge in the face) Why did you betray us?! Why did you join them?! WHY?!

    Rodimus Prime: War would not save Cybertron, Optimus. And why should we protect Earth over our home? Axiom Trion once thought the same way. Years ago, we were gods. But here... they call us machines! [but i mean... that's what you are]

    (Meanwhile, Omega Maximus is duking it out with Trypticon)

    Trypticon: You cannot destroy Trypticon! Trypticon is invincible!

    Omega Maximus: Think again. (he then Thor-hammers Trypticon in the face)

    (Down below...)

    Jazz: Ratchet! Good thing you're here! Prowl and Skids are injured!

    (Orion Pax proceeds to pummel Rodimus)

    Orion Pax: You're a disgrace to all Primes before you!

    Rodimus Prime: And you think you'd make a better Prime?

    Orion Pax: No. The only one who's a better Prime... is the one who's not! [so does Megastorm or Shockwave count?]

    Shockwave: Just like your father... you fight for the weak! (he shoots Orion in the back)

    Orion Pax: No, Shockwave. I fight for freedom. I fight not just for Cybertron, but for the galaxy.

    Rodimus Prime: So lost are you. Survival is for the fittest. And you'd save this world over ours?

    Orion Pax: Over you. [yooo]

    (Meanwhile, the 'Cons are getting blasted to pieces)

    Starscream: Hey! Point that somewhere-- (Ricochet blasts him away) ELSE!

    (At that moment, a frightening shape appears in the space bridge portal in the sky)

    Orion Pax: Oh, Matrix no... that's Cybertron! But it...

    Rodimus Prime: It looks like Unicron! Shockwave, what's going on?! You didn't tell me--

    Shockwave: Telling you every detail in my plan was not part of the deal, Rodimus. Nor was keeping you a part of it!

    (He blasts Rodimus before taking off into the portal. Orion takes pursuit just as the merged Unicron-Cybertron exits the portal and comes into Earth's orbit)

    (Within Unicron, Shockwave approaches a green orb)

    Shockwave: At last....

    Orion Pax: Don't even think about it.

    Shockwave: Are you truly that determined? Do you truly wish our world to die?

    Orion Pax: It's death is better than your rulership.

    Shockwave: So be it... son of Prime.

    (Down on Earth)

    Megastorm: At last... we have won!

    Starscream: Think, Megastorm. You saw One-Eye ditch Rodimus, didn't you? What makes you think he'll keep you? And even if he does, you'll only be on your knees, kissing his feet. [since when was Starscream the voice of reason?]

    (But anyway, Megastorm flies over to Unicron)

    (After witnessing Omega Maximus destroy Trypticon with an anti-climatic blow to the head, we return to Shockers and Orion duking it out)

    Shockwave: Prepare to join your father in the Matrix!

    Orion Pax: The Matrix! That's it! (he transforms and drives off. Shockwave takes pursuit)

    Shockwave: Now you're the one running away? Come and face your doom!

    Orion Pax: I know it's here! I can just sense it!

    (He comes across Omega Prime's corpse before seeing the Matrix in Alpha Quintesson's hands)

    Alpha Q: You want this, don't you? [what is with all of the Palpatine quotes] I'm sorry, but I wish to keep it for a while.

    Orion Pax: In your dreams, squid. (He blasts the Matrix out of Alpha Q's hands only for it to land in Shockwave's)

    Shockwave: Thank you, Autobot. You saved me the trouble of-- (he notices Megastorm creeping up behind him) Megastorm? What are you--

    Megastorm: That's Lord Megastorm to you. (He blasts Shockwave, allowing Orion to take back the Matrix and blast his arm off)

    Shockwave: You are so blind. Don't you want our race to prosper?!

    Orion Pax: Yes, I do... but I don't want it to live under your rule! [you already said that]

    (Shockwave lunges at Orion only for Megastorm to blast a hole through his chest)

    Shockwave: This is... illogical. (He then dies. For good. Finally)

    Megastorm: What are you waiting for, Orion? Finish it. Light our darkest hour.

    (And he does. Unicron-Cybertron blows up and Orion and Megastorm fly out like Lando and Nien Nunb. YEE-HAW!)

    To be concluded

FEATURED CHARACTERS

    Autobots: Bumblebee, Jazz, Omega Prime's corpse, Orion Pax, Prowl, Ratchet, Ricochet, Rodimus Prime

    Decepticons: Cyclonus, Megastorm, Scourge, Shockwave, Starscream, Trypticon

    Others: Alpha Quintesson, Omega Maximus, Unicron

The Transformers, Issue 84: Final Conflict, Chapter Eleven

ARMAGEDDON, PART 2: TRYPTICON'S RAMPAGE

    (As per the title, Trypticon is on the rampage, destroying stuff)

    Megastorm: What is that?

    Shockwave: Our greatest weapon. Before the Nemesis took off, Megatron had me install a failsafe code. If the first program was to fail, the Trypticon program would activate.

    Megastorm: And you didn't tell me?

    Shockwave: You didn't ask, my lord. [savage]

    (Meanwhile, the Autobots fly their stolen 'Con warship towards Trypticon)

    Wheeljack: I do hope you can fly this thing, 'Bee!

    Bumblebee: Don't worry, Wheeljack! When have I ever let out down?

    (They then get shot down and crash)

    Wheeljack: Take now for instance...

    (Meanwhile, Orion Pax is flying overhead, being chase by warships)

    Springer: (over comm) This is Springer! Does anyone copy?

    Orion Pax: I copy, Springer. Are the Wreckers with you?

    Springer: You bet! What do you need us to do? [i mean, you called first]

    Orion Pax: Well, for starters, you can take down those space bridges!

    Roadbuster: I'm on it!

    Springer: Arcee, I want you to snipe from that building. Drift, you're with me. Roll out!

    (While Springer and Drift drive off, Arcee takes position on top of a building and takes aim on one of the space bridges... only for Starscream to fly up in front of her)

    Starscream: And just what do you think you're doing? 

    (He fires at Arcee, only for her to drive off. Springer then flies up and shoots him down)

    Starscream: You wanna play rough, eh, Autobot? Fine by me. (He fires and misses again, and then Springer slices off his arm) WHY YOU WASTED PIECE OF TRASH! (He lunges again and gets his other arm sliced off) 'Tis but a metal wound. (Springer then flies off) Get back here! Can you at least give me a hand? (He then discovers his undocumented-until-now-Deadpool-ability to reattach his limbs) Oh, I didn't know I could do that!

    [...no comment]

    (Meanwhile, Bumblebee and co. have been rounded up by Soundwave and the Decepticons)

    Soundwave: Lord Megastorm, we have captured five Autobots. What shall we do with them?

    Megastorm: Kill them all, Soundwave. We must have no prisoners.... only trophies.

    Soundwave: Understood, Lord Megastorm. Reflector, kill the blue one.

    (Reflector proceeds to grab Mirage)

    Mirage: Hey, watch it, buddy! I'm tougher than I-- (he gets his head blown off. rip)

    Wheeljack: MIRAGE!

    Soundwave: Kill the yellow one.

    Bumblebee: No! Help! Please!

    Reflector: Ready to join your friend? Goodbye, Autobrat! (He then gets blown up by Jetfire. rips)

    Bumblebee: Jetfire!

    Jetfire: I got it handled here!

    Ratchet: Let's go!

    (The Autobots drive off, only for Soundwave to attack Bumblebee)

    Soundwave: You're not going anywhere!

    (They fight, and then Laserbeak joins in, but then Bumblebee shoots Laserbeak down and his wing stabs Soundwave's eye, allowing Bumblebee to finish them both off)

    (Rest in pepperonis)

    Trypticon: DIE, AUTOBOTS! FEAR THE WRATH OF TRYPTICON!

    Jazz: Man, this is one big 'Con!

    Kup: Y'know, this reminds me of--

    Jazz: Save it, Kup!

    (Suddenly, the ground shakes!)

    Sunstreaker: Eh?

    Skids: What's that?

    Jazz: Holy Allspark.

    (Omega Maximus has arrived)

    Orion Pax: Trypticon is distracted. The 'Cons are scattered. It's just you and me, Megastorm. IT'S TIME TO END THIS!

    To be continued [it's so on]

FEATURED CHARACTERS

    Autobots: Arcee, Bumblebee, Drift, Jazz, Jetfire, Kup, Mirage, Orion Pax, Prowl, Ratchet, Roadbuster, Sideswipe, Skids, Springer, Sunstreaker, Wheeljack

    Decepticons: Cyclonus, Laserbeak, Megastorm, Reflector, Scourge, Shockwave, Soundwave, Starscream, Trypticon

    Others: Omega Maximus

The Transformers, Issue 83: Final Conflict, Chapter Ten

ARMAGEDDON, PART 1: COMMENCE ARMAGEDDON

    (On Earth, countless hordes of Decepticon warships are emerging from the space bridge while Megastorm rallies them in a voice-over).

    Megastorm: Decepticons! The time has come! We outnumber the Autobots! Our victory is assured! At last we shall have revenge for all of our defeats! Decepticons, ATTACK!

    (Meanwhile, the Autobots are watching the 'Cons arrive with apprehension)

    Bumblebee: This doesn't look good.

    Wheeljack: Bumblebee... you're a pro at understatement.

    (On one of the warships)

    Needlenose: Straxus, a group of Autobots have been detected!

    Straxus: Destroy them!

    (The warship fires on them, only for Optimus Minor -- now Orion Pax -- to fly in and destroy Straxus and his vessel)

    Wheeljack: No way.

    Bumblebee and Sideswipe: Wicked.

    Ratchet: Amazing.

    Wheeljack: Optimus?! Where are the Guardians?

    Orion Pax: They aren't coming. But they did give me an upgrade.

    Wheeljack: Obviously.

    Bumblebee: Sweet. So what do we do?

    Orion Pax: We need to infiltrate the 'Cons' camp. Wheeljack, can you fix that ship?

    Wheeljack: Eh, I'd need some help.

    Orion Pax: Grapple, Huffer, are you nearby? [i didn't even realized they still existed]

    Grapple: Yes, Optimus. What's the problem?

    Orion Pax: We're gonna need help getting a 'Con ship fixed up.

    Grapple: We're on it, sir.

    Bumblebee: All right, 'sir!'

    Orion Pax: Shut up.

    (At the Decepticon camp)

    Fistfight: Twenty cycles left.

    Shockwave: Excellent. This is the future I promised you, Rodimus. Now we can rebuild Cybertron in our image.

    Rodimus Prime: Remember, Shockwave, that I'm only working with you, not for you.

    Shockwave: Oh, I understand, Rodimus Prime. I understand completely.

    (Meanwhile, the Autobots are approaching the 'Cons' camp)

    Orion Pax: Be on your guard, Autobots! I see Decepticons up ahead!

    Soundwave: Flywheels, eliminate them.

    (Flywheels splits up into his two alt modes and attacks Orion)

    Orion Pax: You guys never learn, do you?

    Flywheels: We don't need to! We just know you guys need to-- (Sideswipe stabs Flywheels' tank component) --die. (Sideswipe then finishes off the tank while Jetfire destroys the jet. Cue sad trombone)

    Orion Pax: Thanks, Jetfire. How's that ship going, Wheeljack?

    Wheeljack: It's ready to fly! 'Bee, can you fly it?

    Bumblebee: Eh... maybe.

    Mirage: 'Maybe?'

    Bumblebee: Shut up, Mirage. Let's drop it on 'em!

    (And so the battle begins! Hold on to your hats everyone! It's gonna be epic! [citation needed])

    (Meanwhile, the Wreckers are having troubles of their own)

    Roadbuster: That's some war goin' on out there.

    Drift: (nearly gets blown up) Whoa! You think?!

    Springer: All right, Wreckers! Time to wreck and rule!

    Clench: Ransack, take out that green one!

    Ransack: With pleasure! Heh-heh! (He transforms and gets cut in half by Springer. Sad trombone)

    Clench: Keep shooting! Keep shooting til they're all dead!

    (Springer gets shot down)

    Roadbuster: Springer!

    Clench: I don't see why you can't simply surrender, or beg for mercy. It makes this more amusing.

    Roadbuster: We'll see who's laughing!

    (Clench shoots him in the face. Whirl comes in and attacks Clench, only to be stabbed by Space Case's trident. Roadbuster then comes guns ablaze)

    Space Case: I'm outta here!

    Clench: What?! Get back here!

    Roadbuster: Aww, did yer buddy leave ya?

    Clench: Perhaps the same way your buddy will leave you.

    Whirl: Roadbuster... wreck and rule....

    Clench: What's the matter? Scared? Scared of-- (Roadbuster blows his head off. Sad tromb- you get it already)

    Whirl: Well... I always seem to end up this way.

    Roadbuster: It's only the second time.

    Whirl: Third. Remember Veras Minor?

    Roadbuster: Oh... yeah.

    Whirl: But this time... I'm not going to make it. R-rock on, bro? 

    Roadbuster: Rock on, bro. (They brofist. Then Whirl dies. Okay, sad trombone for real)

    Springer: Sandstorm... I want you to find a safe place to put him.

    Sandstorm: Got it....

    (Elsewhere, the Nemesis arrives on the scene... and transforms into Trypticon)

    Trypticon: Total victory... requires... TOTAL DESTRUCTION! [snap son]

    To be continued

FEATURED CHARACTERS

    Autobots: Arcee, Bumblebee, Drift, Grapple, Huffer, Jetfire, Mirage, Orion Pax, Ratchet, Roadbuster, Rodimus Prime, Sandstorm, Sideswipe, Skids, Springer, Wheeljack, Whirl

    Decepticons: Clench, Fistfight, Flywheels, Megastorm, Needlenose, Ransack, Shockwave, Soundwave, Space Case, Starscream, Straxus, Trypticon

The Transformers, Issue 82: Final Conflict, Chapter Nine

GUARDIANS OF CYBERTRON

    (At the Autobot hideout on Earth)

    Wheeljack: Gorlam Prime, eh? Well, it'd be very tricky to get off plant without the 'Cons finding us. Autobot signatures would be shooting all over their scanners.

    Optimus Minor: What about if just one of us gets off planet?

    Wheeljack: It's less likely they'd notice. Wait... don't tell me you're going to Gorlam Prime by yourself!

    Optimus Minor: Can you think of another way?

    Wheeljack: *sigh* Silverbolt, get ready for another trip...

    (Meanwhile, Kup and Sunstreaker are driving around)

    Sunstreaker: Y'know, Kup, it kinda makes me nervous. We haven't seen any sign of Decepticons at all! I thought they were scattered!

    Kup: So did I, Sunstreaker.

    Sunstreaker: Whatever they're up to, it ain't gonna be pretty.

    Kup: Ya, especially if Rodimus is involved in it! I thought I trusted him!

    Sunstreaker: Yeah, it happens. (They then both turn around and shoot Blitzwing, who had been sneaking up on them)

    Kup: Tell me, Blitzwing. What are you and the 'Cons up to?

    Blitzwing: I-- I swore Megastorm and Shockwave not to tell anyone!

    Kup: What do you value more: your job or your life?!

    Blitzwing: They're trying to bring Cybertron into Earth's atmosphere... and raid this world of its resources!

    (Meanwhile, Silverbolt brings Optimus to Gorlam Prime and he approaches the Guardians of Cybertron, who are big guys lookin' like Animated Omega Supreme)

    Omega Maximus: You must be Optimus Minor, son of Optimus Prime. Prima told me you would be coming. I am Omega Maximus, leader of the Guardians. Why are you here?

    Optimus Minor: Our world is in danger, Omega Maximus. [WE MUST FIND THE FOUR CYBER PLANET KEYS!]

    Omega Maximus: How so?

    Optimus Minor: The Decepticons are using a series of space bridges to bring Cybertron to Earth, the planet we've sworn to protect. So, will you help us?

    Omega Maximus: I'm afraid... there's nothing we can do. [wah wah wah]

    (Meanwhile, Unicron is continuing to merge with Cybertron)

    Alpha Q: It's almost dinner time! Oh boy! Soon, Primus will be no more! And Unicron shall rule supreme!

    (Back on Earth, at the Decepticon camp, the 'Cons are witnessing this through the space bridge)

    Shockwave: Megastorm, it's working! Cybertron will be in Earth's atmosphere in approximately 30 cycles! [sounding pretty excited there, Shockers]

    Megastorm: Excellent, Shockwave.

    Soundwave: My lord, Blitzwing has returned.

    Megastorm: Well, Blitzwing, have you found any Autobots?

    Blitzwing: Two, sir.

    Starscream: Are they dead?

    Blitzwing: N-no. They're not.

    Megastorm: What do you mean 'they're not?'

    Blitzwing: Well, uh....

    Megastorm: Are you telling me there were Autobots in this area and you didn't kill them?

    Blitzwing: Please, my lord! They threatened to kill me--!

    Megastorm: I'll do that for them. (he then blasts Blitz's head off. Wah wah wah)

    Starscream: Wow, you really don't like Triple Changers.

    Megastorm: Shut up, Starscream, and gather all Decepticons. Today, this war shall end!

    (Back on Gorlam Prime)

    Optimus Minor: You mean to tell me that you won't help us?

    Omega Maximus: The Primes created us to guard this world so if Cybertron was to be destroyed, this would become your new home.

    Optimus Minor: I don't believe it... you are the Guardians of Cybertron! Not the Guardians of Gorlam Prime!

    Omega Maximus: What you must understand, Autobot, is that if your world was to be destroyed... Gorlam Prime will become Cybertron!

    (Back on Earth)

    Wheeljack: So that's what the 'Cons are up to?

    Kup: That's what the 'Con told us. What do you suppose we do?

    Wheeljack: Ultra Trion?

    Ultra Trion: There's only one solution. We must bring the battle to the Decepticons. Whether we win or lose, it is the only way.

    Wheeljack: I suppose you're right. We just have to wait for Optimus.

    (Back on Gorlam Prime)

    Silverbolt: How'd it go?

    Optimus Minor: Forget it, Silverbolt. The fight is our own.

    (Suddenly, he gets hit by a beam of light!)

    Omega Maximus (voice over): You're a great Autobot, Optimus... but the shadow of your father hangs on your shoulder. You are your own self. You are destined to lead the Autobots to victory. By the Sword of Prima. By the power of the Primes. [hey wait a minute] Arise... ORION PAX!

    (and now Optimus is in Cybertron Optimus Prime's body. woo.)

    To be continued

FEATURED CHARACTERS

    Autobots: Bumblebee, Kup, Optimus Minor/Orion Pax, Ratchet, Silverbolt, Sunstreaker, Ultra Trion, Wheeljack

    Decepticons: Blitzwing, Megastorm, Shockwave, Soundwave, Starscream

    Others: Alpha Quintesson, Omega Maximus, Unicron

The Transformers, Issue 81: Final Conflict, Chapter Eight

CORRUPTED DYNASTY, PART 2

    (Above Cybertron, Unicron comes into the planet's orbit)

    Alpha Quintesson: (between his faces) Is it time? Yes, every Cybertronian has been ridden off Cybertron. Now we can begin! Yes... now we can begin!

    (Unicron then shoots a Big Green Beam towards Cybertron)

    (Meanwhile, on Earth, the Autobots stare at the Big Blue Beam)

    Bumblebee: So what do we do, boss-bot?

    Optimus Minor: Well, I believe I heard you or Gears spoke about a place in Egypt. I have a feeling that it holds the key to ending this... [i'll take yer word for it]

    (Meanwhile, Drift and co are fighting Bludgeon and Banzai-Tron)

    Bludgeon: Ah, I believe we've met before. You and that Ironhide tried to defeat me... and I deliberately ended his life. [as opposed to accidentally?]

    Drift: Enough! (he slices off Bludgeon's right arm)

    Bludgeon: Heh heh heh... I see it in your optics, Autobot. You seek vengeance for what I've done. I see the blazing fires you've seen during the war. I see the anger you've seen when a comrade dies. What are you waiting for, Autobot? Finish it.

    Springer: (stops Drift) Don't.

    Drift: But he killed Ironhide...

    Springer: I know, but if you kill him now... would you be any different than him?

    Drift: You're right, Springer. (stabs the ground with his sword) Leave, Bludgeon. Leave with your honor.

    Bludgeon: Come, Banzai-Tron. We're leaving.

    Banzai-Tron: But the Autobots--

    Bludgeon: There'll be another day. Farewell, Autobots. (The two of them leave)

    Roadbuster: That wasn't much fun.

    Springer: Shut up, Roadbuster.

    (Meanwhile, within Unicron)

    Alpha Q: Why so glum, Avalon? You know this was part of our deal. We told you so! You were to organize the meeting with Omega Prime and the Council so we could abduct Prime. This is partly your doing.

    Avalon: But you said you would only take the Matrix, not kill him!

    Alpha Q: I can't give away every detail, Avalon. That would ruin the mystery.

    Avalon: So what else haven't you told, Quintesson?

    (Dramatic pause!)

    Alpha Q: When we made this deal... I wasn't planning on keeping you!

    (Then he kills Avalon. Boo hoo)

    (Back on Earth, Silverbolt brings Optimus and co to Egypt)

    Silverbolt: Wow... all this way and no 'Cons. Talk about lucky!

    Optimus Minor: Very lucky, Silverbolt. But I'd be careful with those words!

    (He, Bumblebee, and Ratchet drop off and enter a pyramid)

    Bumblebee: This place always gives me the creeps...

    Optimus Minor: Is anyone here?

    Voice: You are Prime?

    Optimus Minor: No. Rodimus is.

    Bumblebee: Regrettably.

    Prima Statue: Then why do you come here?

    Optimus Minor: Optimus and Omega Prime are gone, and Rodimus Prime has betrayed us. We need a Prime to lead us.

    Prima Statue: Do you really? When we created the Prime title, we simply wished it to be an honorable title.

    Vector Prime Statue: Of course, many Primes after us turned it into a symbol of power.

    Alpha Trion Statue: While some indeed have held it well....

    Liege Maximo Statue: Others have not.

    Prima Statue: If it's the only way, Rodimus may be the last Prime. But that doesn't mean he'll be the last Autobot.

    Bumblebee: Dude's right.

    Optimus Minor: Thank you, ancestors. But how do I stop the Decepticons and Rodimus from taking Cybertron?

    Prima Statue: Before our time ended, we found a world called Gorlam Prime. We turned it into a failsafe Cybertron, in case anything was to happen to the real one. We placed three beings there, known as the Guardians of Cybertron.

    Alpha Trion Statue: Awaken them, and you may have a chance to end this.

    Optimus Minor: Thank you, great ones.

    Prima Statue: No, son of Optimus... thank you.

    (Meanwhile, at the Decepticon camp)

    Megastorm: How much longer is this going to take?!

    Shockwave: It may take a few more megacycles, Megastorm. But Cybertron will be ours.

    Megastorm: Shockwave, you've been known for betraying Megatron. You're not thinking of pulling another stunt, are you?

    Shockwave: Such an act would be highly illogical.

    Scourge: Lord Megastorm, I've lost contact with Bludgeon!

    Starscream: Pft. Coward.

    Rodimus Prime: You're one to talk.

    Starscream: Eh? What's he doing here?

    Megastorm: Don't worry. He's with me.

    Shockwave: Fistfight, is Plan Zeta ready?

    Fistfight: Ready anytime.

    Shockwave: Good. Computer, initiate Code Zeta D-63.

    Computer: Acknowledged. Initiating Code Zeta D-63. Trypticon activated. [oh snap]

    To be continued

FEATURED CHARACTERS

    Autobots: Arcee, Avalon, Bumblebee, Drift, Optimus Minor, Ratchet, Roadbuster, Rodimus Prime, Silverbolt, Springer

    Decepticons: Banzai-Tron, Bludgeon, Cyclonus, Fistfight, Megastorm, Scourge, Shockwave, Starscream, Trypticon

    Others: Alpha Quintesson, Thirteen Statues, Unicron

The Transformers, Issue 80: Final Conflict, Chapter Seven

CORRUPTED DYNASTY, PART 1

    (The Autobots all stare in shock as the traitorous Rodimus Prime looms over the dying Armorfist)

    Armorfist: Rodimus... you... you can't have joined the Decepticons.

    Rodimus Prime: I already have. (He takes out Armorfist's eye, causing Skids (who's... never shown up until now) to attack)

    Skids: No!

    Rodimus Prime: Ah, Skids. (He blasts off his arm) I'm truly sorry it must end like this.

    Optimus Minor: It doesn't need to.

    Rodimus Prime: Really? What else did you have in mind? Shockwave has a plan that'll surely bring an end to Unicron and this war.

    Optimus Minor: And how does killing your fellow Autobots solve this?

    Rodimus Prime: We mustn't have any witnesses. (He then blasts a hole in the base) Now for that space bridge. (Armorfists lunges at him only to be blown away for good) I never did like your type. And now that I have what I need. (He transforms and drives off) So long, brothers. [so uh about that "no witnesses" part...]

    Optimus Minor: Armorfist... I'm sorry.

    Blurr: With Rodimus gone, there's no hope, no hope at all.

    Optimus Minor: I'm sorry, father... I'm sorry I've failed you.

    (After a brief, pointless flashback to "Baby Optimus", we find the Decepticons at their camp)

    Megastorm: The Dread have not returned yet, Shockwave. I thought Rodimus Prime would be here by now.

    Shockwave: He is coming, Megastorm.

    Rodimus Prime: I'm already here. The others got in the way. And unfortunately, your Dreads didn't make it.

    Shockwave: Welcome, Rodimus Prime.

    Megastorm: Wait, he's actually working with us?! Willingly?!

    Shockwave: Yes. I had found out Rodimus Prime survived when he teleported on Cybertron. We made a truce and a deal so we could save Cybertron. [I'm not quite clear when this would've taken place since we just saw Shockwave moping around after or just before Rodimus showed up]

    Rodimus Prime: And now the time has come. (He joins the space bridge with the others) The circle is now complete. The process will take a while, but so long as the Autobots do not interfere... Cybertron shall be ours.

    (Elsewhere in space, we find Nova Prime monologing. Ho boy)

    Nova Prime: What legacy did I leave behind when I left Cybertron? How did my successor, Zeta Prime -- these days known as Nominus -- turn Cybertron into what it is now?

    Alpha Prime, of course, was perhaps the greatest, for without him, none of us would be here.

    Virtus Prime was believed by many to have been Prima's son. His death left Cybertron in disarray.

    Galaxy Prime attempted to bring our society back together, but failed to do so.

    It wasn't until Guardian Prime became our leader did a new age of peace reach Cybertron. Alas, it was doomed to end eventually.

    When the Destrons struck, it was I who defeated them. I then left Cybertron to carry out my plan.

    It all makes sense... as the Primes went on after my leave, they became more corrupt, with only Optimus as an exception [aw he really does like him] but even he didn't see what was needed.

    Thus it's up to me to bring back peace to Cybertron... or else we're all doomed!

    (Back on Earth, the Autobots mourn over Armorfist)

    Wheeljack: I still can't find the Wreckers' signal.

    Prowl: Keep trying, Wheeljack. They must be somewhere out there.

    Optimus Minor: Why couldn't I save him...?

    Prowl: It's not your fault, Optimus. You didn't know Rodimus would turn. Besides, we need a leader now...

    Optimus Minor: I'm sure you'd be a great one.

    Prowl: Heh. I only fill in sometimes. No, you're the leader we need.

    Optimus Minor: But--

    Prowl: Who lead Team Orion to Velocitron and Earth? Who helped defeat Shockwave in that alternate universe? [I'm sure anyone could've done those things] We need you, Optimus. You're our last hope. [but what do i know]

    (Within Unicron, Starscream tries to find a way to escape while Alpha Q taunts him. He eventually blasts his way out and flies over to Earth, where he follows the space bridge beam to the Decepticon camp)

    Starscream: Oh. Hello, Shockwave.

    Shockwave: Greetings, Starscream.

    Cyclonus: Starscream! You betrayed us and Megatron! (He lunges only to be socked in the face)

    Starscream: Yes, I did. But that was years ago, and besides, Megatron's dead. Can't we forgive and forget?

    Shockwave: While I doubt Cyclonus will forgive you, I never truly cared about Megatron either.

    Starscream: I take it then I'm with you lame'os again....

    (Meanwhile, the Wreckers are driving around)

    Springer: See anything, Whirl?

    Whirl: Nothing yet... wait, I'm picking up Decepticon signatures. It's Bludgeon!

    Bludgeon: Well, Banzai-Tron, I think it's time you made yourself useful.

    Banzai-Tron: Prepare to meet your fate, Autobots!

    Roadbuster: Bring it, Decepti-Punk!

    Banzai-Tron: With pleasure-- (then he gets shot in the face!)

    ???: Gee, of all the cheesy exchanges... that was pretty lame.

    (Oh hey it's Drift, Arcee, and uh Road Rocket. Um... yay?)

    To be continued

FEATURED CHARACTERS

    Autobots: Arcee, Armorfist, Blurr, Bumblebee, Drift, Ironhide, Optimus Minor, Optimus Prime, Prowl, Ratchet, Road Rocket, Roadbuster, Rodimus Prime, Sideswipe, Skids, Springer, Topspin, Twin Twist, Wheeljack, Whirl

    Decepticons: Banzai-Tron, Bludgeon, Cyclonus, Megastorm, Scourge, Shockwave, Soundwave, Starscream

    Others: Alpha Quintesson, Nova Prime

The Transformers, Issue 79: Final Conflict, Chapter Six

THE FALLEN HERO

    (Within Unicron, Cliffjumper and Beachcomber watch as Starscream and Sideways duke it out)

    Sideways: You're lucky you have no further use, Starscream... because this would have been a lot more painful!

    Starscream: Like I'd feel it at all. 

    (He lunges at Sideways just as Sideways throws a fire ball. There's a big explosion and Sideways is left looking... worse for wear while 'Screamer is unscathed)

    Sideways: Ack! W-well played, S-Starscream. P-perhaps I misjudged you....

    Starscream: Yes, you did. Now proceed on your way to oblivion. [lol '86 movie refs for the winz!!1!]

    (Anyway, he blasts Sideways to pieces (RIP). He then notices Cliff' and Beachcomber)

    Starscream: Ah, two Autobots. (He blasts Beachcomber apart while Cliffjumper drives away towards a green portal that appeared out of nowhere) Running away are you, Autobot?!

    (Cliffjumper goes through the portal and we never see him again. Also, Beachcomber is dead. Rest in Pepperonis, man)

    (On Earth, the Autobots are spying on the Decepticon camp)

    Bumblebee: This is Bumblebee to Wheeljack. Do you copy?

    Wheeljack: Clear as water, 'Bee.

    Bumblebee: The 'Cons are building a circle of space bridges. Suspicious, eh?

    Wheeljack: More suspicious than Unicron drinking tea. [...okay then]

    Bumblebee: Sideswipe, are you picking up anything?

    Sideswipe: Hang on. (He extends a radar dish, allowing them to overhear the 'Cons)

    Generic 'Con: Soundwave, all the space bridges are up.

    Soundwave: Negative. The last one is in the hands of the Autobots. However, Crankcase and the Dreads are tracking down Rodimus Prime.

    Bumblebee: That's not good.

    Sideswipe: Didn't know we had a space bridge.

    Wheeljack: Yeah... I sorta stole some stuff when we left Cybertron.

    Sideswipe: Nice goin'.

    Bumblebee: Come one! We have to save Prime!

    (They get to the highway, where Rodimus and Optimus are being followed by three black SUVs)

    Bumblebee: Rodimus! The Decepticons are after you!

    Rodimus Prime: Uh, 'Bee....

    (One of the SUVs transforms into Hatchet. Mirage transforms and hooks onto him and yeah it's just the highway battle from DOTM I'm so original)

    (Bumblebee and Sideswipe go all MechTech and chase around with Crankcase and Crowbar while Mirage kills Hatchet. Yeah, it's like I didn't even try to be original.)

    (Meanwhile, deep in space, Nova Prime floats around with Monstructor)

    Nova Prime: Here's where I found the Fallen... where I found my destiny... which was all ruined by the ones who claimed to be my brethren. Did they not want our race to become the supremacy of the universe? Did they not want everyone to bow before use? Did they not want us to rule? We were gods once, Monstructor. All of us... but now they call us machines.

    (Back on Earth, the Autobots get back to base, where Armorfist joins Sideswipe in taking on the remaining two Dreads)

    Sideswipe: Whoa. Looks like a little Mexican stand-off we've got here. [Whoa. Looks like a little lack of creativity we've got here]

    Armorfist: Weapons down.

    Sideswipe: And we'll let you escape with your dignity.

    (The Dreads drop their weapons... but wait! Crowbar has a spike thingy! He throws it at Ironhide Armorfist but Sideswipe stabs him through the face while Armorfist blows up Crankcase!)

    Armorfist: Boom.

    (They then meet up with the others. Gee, I wonder what's gonna happen next)

    Bumblebee: Wheeljack, we have to move!

    Wheeljack: Why?

    Bumblebee: The 'Cons are after Rodimus! He's the key to their plans!

    Rodimus Prime: Indeed I am. What you must understand, my Autobot brothers, is that we were never going to win the war. For the sake of our planet's survival, a deal had to be made... with Shockwave.

    (He then shoots Armorfist through the chest. Wow, I didn't see that coming)

    Rodimus Prime: I'm sorry, brothers....

    Armorfist: Rodimus... why? [Because DOTM, that's why]

    To be continued

FEATURED CHARACTERS

    Autobots: Armorfist, Beachcomber, Bumblebee, Cliffjumper, Mirage, Optimus Minor, Rodimus Prime, Sideswipe, Wheeljack

    Decepticons: Crankcase, Crowbar, Hatchet, Laserbeak, Soundwave

    Others: Monstructor, Nova Prime, Sideways, Starscream

The Transformers, Issue 78: Final Conflict, Chapter Five

RETURN TO EARTH, PART 2

    (On Cybertron, Rodimus and Thunder Clash's groups return to Iacon)

    Wheeljack: Ah, you guys are back... and with friends.

    Bumblebee: And bad news....

    Thunder Clash: Nova Prime's returned. He sent Thunderwing after us, while he left with Monstructor.

    Perceptor: MONSTRUCTOR?!

    Wheeljack: 'Bout time you woke up....

    Perceptor: Monstructor is the first known gestalt. [we know this already] Jhiaxus started working on him prior to leaving Cybertron.

    Rodimus Prime: Strange that Nova Prime didn't take the gestalt with him when he first left... [maybe 'cos he wasn't finished yet...?]

    Wheeljack: Uh, guys? (Outside, a beam of energy is shooting up into the sky, just like every 21st century action/superhero movie blockbuster ever) Can we please stop the talking...? [and go straight to the screaming]

    (Nearby, with the Decepticons)

    Shockwave: Fistfight, is the Alpha Space Bridge operational?

    Fistfight: Yup. [guess the blue beam of energy isn't enough for ol' Shockers]

    Shockwave: Well, Megastorm, might as well hop onto the bridge.

    Megastorm: I hope this works, Shockwave. I don't forgive errors easily.

    Shockwave: Don't worry, my lord... I won't fail you.

    (We cut to a flashback to the Escape of the Nemesis arc, where we see the Nemesis not exploding as we thought but rather being shunted into subspace and entering stasis lock instead....)

    (Back in the present, Megastorm and the Decepticons begin arriving on Earth. Fistfight is watching them go when Crankcase and the Dreads walk up)

    Fistfight: Yeah, yeah. Go on without me. I don't care... Hey! Crankcase! You look different!

    Crankcase: Shut up, twerp.

    Fistfight: *sigh*

    (Back in Iacon)

    Bumblebee: So just what exactly are we gonna do?

    Rodimus Prime: Wheeljack?

    Wheeljack: Well, if I could find the space bridge's computer, I can try to re-calibrate--

    Rodimus Prime: In basic Cybertronian....

    Wheeljack: We could hijack a ride.

    Sideswipe: Let's rock.

    (In time, the Autobots start mobilizing)

    Jazz: C'mon, 'bots! Let's move it! Come on, Optimus!

    Optimus Minor: But what about my team?

    Rodimus Prime: We don't have time. We have to stop the 'Cons.

    Optimus Minor: Wait! They're coming! [what was the point of that then?]

    Rodimus Prime: Good. Let's roll out!

    (They get to the space bridge, where Decepticons are standing guard)

    Darkwing: Dreadwind! Look!

    Dreadwind: Autobots! You first.

    Darkwing: No, you.

    Dreadwind: No, you.

    Darkwing: No, you. [aw they're such a cute couple]

    (The Autobots roll over them and hop into the space bridge)

    Jazz: See ya'!

    Fistfight: Hey! Not cool!

    (Within Unicron, Sideways is beating the snot out of Cliffjumper)

    Sideways: This is more fun than I thought! Prepare to meet your demise!

    Starscream: Not so fast.

    Sideways: Starscream? What are you doing here?

    Starscream: You promised me power, Noisemaze. Not this. (He blasts Sideways)

    Sideways: I see you wish to end our alliance. Very well... I'll make it quick.

    (On Earth, the Autobots arrive)

    Rodimus Prime: All right, Autobots... we must stop whatever the Decepticons are up to.

    Bumblebee: How?

    Rodimus Prime: We'll have to scan different alt modes and change colors so we can sneak by any Decepticons. After that, we'll find a base here on Earth. There we'll think of a plan to end this. Autobots, transform and roll out!

    (On Animatron, Leo Prime and his Maximals confront Nemesis Prime and the Predacons... and that's the last we see of this plot for the rest of the arc. I was planning a Beast Wars sub-series to finish it off, but it never came to be. Maybe some day...)

    (Back on Earth)

    Megastorm: What exactly is your plan, Shockwave?

    Shockwave: Quite simple, Lord Megastorm. Once united, the space bridges will be able to bring Cybertron into Earth's atmosphere. Once that's done, we'll raid Earth and enslave the humans. [totally not ripped off from Dark of the Moon, no siree]

    Megastorm: Interesting plan, Shockwave. Where do we start?

    Shockwave: We find Rodimus Prime. He is the key!

    (Meanwhile)

    Bumblebee: Cool place here.

    Wheeljack: Enjoy it while you can, Bumblebee. Rodimus says we'll be changing bases every few days.

    Rodimus Prime: It is for the best, Wheeljack. Optimus, I wish to speak with you. Follow me. (They transform and drive around) I remember when Optimus Prime adopted you when you were a protoform, shortly before my... disappearance. I knew then you were destined to be a Prime.

    Optimus Minor: But I was too reckless...

    Rodimus Prime: I know. Prowl told me Omega Prime took over. But since then... I'm sure you'll be a great leader one day, Optimus Minor. I'm sure of it.

    (Meanwhile again)

    Soundwave: (over comm) Dreads, this is Soundwave. Megastorm wants you to find Rodimus Prime. Bring him alive. Kill all who stand in your way.

    Crankcase: Understood, Soundwave. It will be done.

    To be continued

FEATURED CHARACTERS

    Autobots: Armorfist, Bumblebee, Cliffjumper, Fastfix, Heavypunch, Jazz, Mirage, Optimus Minor, Perceptor, Rodimus Prime, Sideswipe, Thunderclash, Turborun, Wheeeljack

    Maximals: Cheetor, Leo Prime, Primal Major, Rattrap, Rhinox

    Decepticons: Cyclonus, Fistfight, Crankcase, Crowbar, Darkwing, Dreadwind, Hatchet, Megastorm, Nemesis, Scourge, Shockwave, Soundwave

    Predacons: Brimstone, Nemesis Prime, Undermine

    Others: Sideways, Starscream

The Transformers, Issue 77: Final Conflict, Chapter Four

RETURN TO EARTH, PART 1

   (We open on Cybertron, where Thunderwing is beating the snot out of Kup)

    Nova Prime: My, Kup... you're not as impressive as you used to be.

    Kup: What... what's the meaning of all this?

    Nova Prime: I'm still on my plan to remold the universe, but in order to do so... I'll need Unicron's help.

    Kup: Unicron?!

    Thunder Clash: So you know what's going on?

    Nova Prime: Partly, but I'm still not going to tell you. Thunderwing, kill them all.

    (Thunderwing starts to cackled madly before getting shot in the shoulder. Reinforcements have arrived!)

    Kup: Ironfist?!

    Ironfist: Not just me... (Flak and Crosscut are here to! Good, they're my favorites!) [No, not really]

    Nova Prime: Thunderwing, get rid of them. [I mean, that's what he was gonna do anyway]

    (Meanwhile, with Rodimus and his group)

    Bumblebee: So, Jolt, how'd you end up here?

    Jolt: Well, I was with Pyro's group, as usual, when, y'know, this whole event started. Pyro was trying to save Windbreaker and Rapido but I found it was hopeless... Unicron was coming.

    Bumblebee: Unicron?

    Jazz: That ain't good.

    Jolt: No, it's not. Pyro and I ran for it... but we didn't what to do. And then this creature showed up. (In a flashback, the creature is shown to be Razorclaw) Pyro went to fight it, and told me to run. The fight didn't last long... and Pyro was killed. That's how I ended up by myself, being chased by Decepticons.

    Bumblebee: The only question now is what do we do?

    Mirage: Rodimus?

    Rodimus Prime: We're heading back to Iacon. Now!

    (Within Unicron, Cliffjumper, Beachcomber and other Autobots are being held captive)

    Sideways: Hello, Autobots. You have all been abducted for a reason.

    Generic Autobot: And that is?

    Sideways: You'll all be infused with this: Dark Angolmois. You'll all be made into Unicron's undying slaves. For example...

    (He infuses the substance into the generic, turning them into a Terrorcon)

    Terrorcon: Kill... kill....

    Sideways: No, my friend. There'll be time to kill later.

    Beachcomber: Cliffjumper, what do we do?!

    Sideways: It seems our friend here doesn't know when to keep quiet. (He produces another Dark Angolmois orb thing) Time to teach him a lesson, don't you think?

    (Cliffjumper breaks free from his restraints and lunges at Sideways, shoving the Dark Angolmois into his face. However, this only serves to upgrade Sideways into a larger, spikier body)

    Sideways: You fool! You've only prolonged your deaths!

    (Back on Cybertron, in Kaon)

    Soundwave: Lord Megastorm, Laserbeak has picked up a Decepticon signature here in Kaon.

    Megastorm: And do you know who it is?

    Soundwave: Shockwave.

    (And like the devil, Shockers shows up)

    Shockwave: Hello, Megastorm. I'm quite interested to see how your plan works out....

    (Back with the Elite Guard, Thunderwing is blasting the Autobots to bits)

    Ironfist: This is bad.

    Thunder Clash: You think?

    Kup: Y'know, this reminds me of-- (He gets cut off by an Autobot being blasted away) Autobots, retreat!

    (The Autobots transform and flee, while Thunderwing chases after them)

    Nova Prime: Monstructor, while our friends are busy... why don't we finish our plan?

    (Meanwhile, on Animatron)

    Cheetor: Uh, guys... you should come see this.

    Leo Prime: This is bad.

    Rattrap: Very.

    (We see Nemesis Prime standing before a horde of Predacons)

    Nemesis Prime: Predacons! Today, we shall hunt down those rebel Maximals and rule this world! And I swear, soon, the only Prime you shall answer to... will be me!

    Cheetor: What do we do, Leo?

    Leo Prime: Let them find us. [what a sound plan /s]

    (Back on Cybertron)

    Bumblebee: Rodimus, why do we need to get back to Iacon?

    Rodimus Prime: I'll explain later. Just go! (They then run into the Elite Guard) Thunder Clash?

    Thunder Clash: Rodimus Prime? But--

    Kup: Less talkin', more fleein'!

    Blurr: (talking really fast) Zombie Decepticon just won't leave us alone no he won't!

    (Thunderwing transforms and lands, looking really ticked)

    Blurr: Uh oh.

    Kup: Run for it, lad!

    Thunderwing: (starts shooting away) There's no point in fleeing, Autobots! You'll all die eventually!

    (Suddenly, the Aerialbots show up and shoot Thunderwing's eye out!)

    Silverbolt: Miss us? [...no?]

    Kup: About time you showed up!

    Air Raid: We just love being late, right, Slingshot?

    Slingshot: Shut up, Air Raid. [boy i sure missed these guys no i didn't]

    Thunderwing: I will kill you, Autobots! All of you!

    (Then Silverbolt shoots his head off and kills him)

    Rodimus Prime: Well... he's taken care of. [very perceptive]

    (Back in Kaon)

    Megastorm: So what do you want?

    Shockwave: I'm here to propose an alliance. Obviously, I can not make it on my own.

    Megastorm: And what use would you serve me?

    Shockwave: I believe this may interest you.... I've prepared a series of space bridges to be placed on Earth... and I'll need help getting them there.

    To be continued

FEATURED CHARACTERS

    Autobots: Air Raid, Beachcomber, Blurr, Bumblebee, Cliffjumper, Crosscut, Flak, Ironfist, Jazz, Jolt, Kup, Mirage, Pyro, Rodimus Prime, Silverbolt, Slingshot, Thunderclash, Windbreaker

    Maximals: Cheetor, Leo Prime, Primal Major, Rattrap

    Decepticons: Laserbeak, Megastorm, Shockwave, Soundwave

    Predacons: Brimstone, Nemesis Prime, Sky-Byte, Undermine, Waspinator

    Others: Nova Prime, Razorclaw, Sideways, Thunderwing, Unicron

The Transformers, Issue 76: Final Conflict, Chapter Three

HUNT OF THE DECEPTICONS

    (On Cybertron, Rodimus Prime and the Autobots are driving around)

    Bumblebee: So, Rodimus, what do we do once we find more Autobots?

    Rodimus Prime: Once we find enough, we'll regroup at the base. I have a plan in mind.

    (Ah, but little do they know that Laserbeak is spying on them! Ooo-oooh)

    (Meanwhile, on Chaar)

    Soundwave: Upgrades: Complete.

    Megastorm: Well, Soundwave... this certainly is an improvement. In fact, I believe we're ready to return to Cybertron! Decepticons, transform... and attack!

    (Back on Cybertron, Brawl is chasing after Jolt)

    Brawl: Come back here, Auto-brat!

    Jolt: Who're you callin' a brat?! You just asked for a shockin'!

    Brawl: Bring it, kid! (He then proceeds to beat the snot out of Jolt)

    (At this moment, Bumblebee and the others show up)

    Bumblebee: What the-? Rodimus! Come see this! [Sure, wait for him to come over while your friend gets beat up. No one likes Jolt]

    Jazz: Hey, Brawl!

    Brawl: Eh?

    Jazz: Calm down! [...that's, like, the lamest one-liner ever]

    Brawl: Rargh! (He gets stomped on by Rodimus) Hey! I'm gonna pound ya' all into scrapme-! (Bumblebee shoots him in the back) I... I surrender... 

    Rodimus Prime: (grabs Brawl by the neck) Listen, Brawl... and listen closely. You're gonna tell us where your Decepticon camp is.

    Brawl: What makes you think *ack* there's a camp?

    Rodimus Prime: Where did you come from then? [well, you see, Roddy, the stork delivers the baby and...]

    Brawl: All right, I'll show you. Follow me. ["After you stop strangling me, of course"]

    (Meanwhile, on Animatron, the Maximals are walkin' around)

    Cheetor: So, what exactly do we do, Prime?

    Leo Prime: I don't know, Cheetor. My team and I were stranded here ever since the war. We tried contacting Cybertron, but couldn't get a signal.

    Primal Major: And since our ship's damaged...

    Leo Prime: We're stuck here. Forever.

    (While the Maximals mope, Brimstone flies up to Nemesis Prime)

    Brimstone: I see no sign of Flamus Prime or Gigatron.

    Nemesis Prime: Then they're dead. Predacons, it's time to unite. We shall rule this world with an iron fist! And the Maximals SHALL FALL!

    (Back on Cybertron, the Autobots are following Brawl)

    Brawl: The camp is right around here... (They get there) Here it is. It's just comprised of me and the Combaticons.

    Bumblebee: ...which forms that gestalt Bruticus.

    Rodimus Prime: How do we know you're not leading us into a trap?

    Jazz: I'll watch over him. You guys take care of them.

    (The others jump down to confront the Combaticons)

    Rodimus Prime: Surrender, 'Cons!

    Onslaught: And why should we do that? It's over, isn't it? Our world is dead!

    Rodimus Prime: And how should I know you're not attacking stray Autobots?

    Onslaught: And why are you accusing us of that?

    Rodimus Prime: (points to Brawl) Maybe your friend there can answer that.

    Swindle: Brawl?!

    Onslaught: Why you stupid little....

    (The Combaticons then combine to form Bruticus, sans Brawl and is thus missing a leg)

    Bruticus: I'll tear you all apart! Including you, Brawl! (He then starts smashing things)

    Jolt: So how do we defeat this bozo?

    Bumblebee: I have an idea. 

   (He then transforms and drives around, distracting Bruticus, allowing Jolt to fire a crossbow ('cos he has that now I guess) and bring the gestalt down)

    Bumblebee: Got 'im.

    Jazz: Nice going, Jolt! [You're the best ROTF Autobot ever!]

    (Brawl tries to sneak away only for Sideswipe to stop him)

    Sideswipe: Not so fast. You're not going anywhere.

    (Meanwhile, across the universe, Megastorm sends a message to all Decepticons)

    Megastorm: This is Megastorm to all Decepticons. The time has come to strike. No more will we hide and retreat. On this day, the Autobots will fall. You can trust your leader on that. Now... RISE UP!

    (Elsewhere, on Cybertron, Fistfight (still in his GO-4 body) is fetching an energon cube while Shockwave skulks in an alleyway)

    Fistfight: C'mere you little energon cube!

    Shockwave: Fistfight, how can you eat in these conditions? Cybertron is dying. That Megastorm is launching a soon-to-fail strike... Wait... we still have Plan Zeta! [Leave it to Shockwave to always have a deus-evil-machina up his sleeve]

    Fistfight: Plan Zeta?

    Shockwave: You wouldn't understand. [Deus-evil-machinas are for grown ups only!] Come. We shall meet with this Megastorm.

    (Back with the other Autobots in Iacon...)

    Optimus Minor: How're Turborun and the others?

    Wheeljack: All right, I think. But they'll take a while to wake up.

    Prowl: Wheeljack, Skids and Tracks are up.

    Wheeljack: Good, I'll go explain things to them.

    Optimus Minor: Are there any Autobots who don't seem like they'll wake up?

    Prowl: I think we may have lost Downshift... [hope Downshift isn't anyone's favorite 'cos I just killed him off-panel]

    Ratchet: These are dark times, aren't they, Prowl? 

    Prowl: Yes, Ratchet. Yes, they are.

    (Back with Ultra Trion and the Elite Guard)

    Monstructor: Monstructor... awakens.

    Thunder Clash: Well, I'll be.

    Ultra Trion: Monstructor, you are to help us in saving Cybertron. Understood?

    Monstructor: Monstructor... does not take orders... from you. (He whacks Ultra Trion aside) I take orders... from Nova Prime!

    Thunder Clash: But Nova Prime is dead!

    Monstructor: No. Nova Prime lives. I can feel it in my spark!

    Thunder Clash: Well, your spark's obviously wrong!

    ???: Now I wouldn't say that.

    (The Autobots turn around to see Nova Prime and Thunderwing)

    Thunder Clash: Oh, scrap.

    Nova Prime: I wouldn't say that somebody's dead unless you see their torn-up corpse.

    Kup: What do you want, Nova?

    Nova Prime: Not much. Except the big one behind you. And, oh yeah... YOUR HEADS!

    To be continued

FEATURED CHARACTERS

    Autobots: Bumblebee, Jazz, Jolt, Kup, Mirage, Optimus Minor, Prowl, Ratchet, Rodimus Prime, Sideswipe, Thunderclash, Turborun, Ultra Trion, Wheeljack

    Decepticons: Bladespin, Blast Off, Bludgeon, Brawl, Bruticus, Crankcase, Cyclonus, Firestorm, Fistfight, Irontread, Laserbeak, Megastorm, Onslaught, Shockwave, Soundwave, Swindle, Vortex

    Predacons: Brimstone, Nemesis Prime

    Maximals: Cheetor, Leo Prime, Primal Major, Rhinox, Tigatron

    Others: Monstructor, Nova Prime, Thunderwing