When All Lights Go Out II (TFP)

Chapter 7

Optimus did not know how extreme the circumstances were at this time, but as they sped through the abandoned area, they were able to observe a lot of activity on their scanners. It did seem Bulkhead and Breakdown were able to shoot down some of the helicopters, but more would appear, and it was unknown just how many of Mech's soldiers were here. But that did not matter, so long as they could stop Mech from taking another Cybertronian, no matter who it was.

Ratchet himself was even more worried the closer they got to the fighting. He could see just how extreme the shots and explosions were at this time, and he would hope that they wouldn't be in for a long fight against the humans. Bulkhead and Breakdown might be able to hold themselves fine against the humans, but given how many vehicles and aircraft there was shooting at them, it was hard to tell.

"It seems like Silas always has a large army prepared wherever he goes," Arcee commented as she observed the fight ahead of them. "I actually wonder how many of his men have worked in the military, or are working for the military. Mech wouldn't have known about the Dingus that day without some sort of internal information."

"It is deeply concerning the amount of men Silas has been able to recruit to his side. However, so did Megatron. I fear if Mech gains more power, this planet will have themselves a leader under Silas's iron first." Optimus did know that Fowler would deep to do some internal investigations to make sure that Silas did not have any men on the inside, but that would remain to be seen. "There does seem to be a big difference between the motives of both Silas and Megatron, that we can agree on. We all know Megatron's motivation, even if he caused a war to the whole of Cybertron."

"We are all fully aware, Optimus." Ratchet remembered it extremely well, and it was something he wished never happened, but they could not change the past. They could only influence the future. "The only thing we know is that Mech are searching for the most advanced technology to be ahead of everyone else in the world. And that is based on our first meeting, and we know nothing of his past."

"We at least can guess he used to work for the military. Something clearly has made him decide to go rogue and turn against this world. I am unsure if information about him can be found." Bumblebee wasn't wrong. They all had guessed that Silas was an ex-military person, due to his experience, but they were not sure what the reason would have been for him to leave and go rogue. "Though I doubt knowing the past will help much."

"It will not. It will only explain his motives," Optimus responded, before grunting a little upon feeling another kick. "Ugh...and it seems Azura is going through something as well in her dream...which is a little distracting."

"And you still want to proceed?" Ratchet questioned the leader in a blunt tone. "As you have been distracted this whole time with your concern for Azura, Optimus, maybe you should fall back and let us take the lead. I do not think your mind is clear for this right now, Optimus."

"I will be fine, Ratchet. I would regret not helping and finding out that Bulkhead has been captured or terminated when it could have been prevented if I were present at the time. So no, Ratchet. While it is true my mind is concerned for Azura, I am focused on saving Bulkhead. If I do feel I need to fall back, I will contact base to have Rafael open the bridge for me." Ratchet hoped Optimus would follow through with that, because he certainly believed that it could happen.

Though as Ratchet was about to respond, his scanners picked up something else, and he gasped loudly. "Scrap! I am detecting a group of decepticons closing in fast! It seems Megatron has finally decided to assist Breakdown."

"Oh, great! More trouble!" Arcee groaned loudly as they got closer to the fighting. They all then noticed that Mech was retreating, as they could see the helicopters flying away, and the last of the vehicles speeding away. "Seems like Mech noticed them too."