Promontory Point, Mars

The vast red planetscape of Mars extends for thousands of kilometers, uninterrupted by little more than dust, rocks, and the occasional geological feature, at least until this particular area. Formerly the site of the Terran compound, it was the resting place of the massive city-Transformer Trypticon for a time, and of the compound itself, there are few traces; Trypticon parked himself right on top of it. To the southeast is the largest canyon system on the planet, Valles Marineris, dwarfing even Trypticon himself.

Contents:

"Death Star 2"

Chimera

Long Haul

Hook

Bonecrusher

Spacebridge Terminus <Mobile>

Decepticon Shuttle <Triumph>

Mars Sensor 1

Memorial Plaque

Obvious exits:

Northwest <NW> leads to Ares Rail Station.

Southeast <SE> leads to Valles Marineris.

North <N> leads to Martian Lake.

Scrapper is currently by the "Death Star 2", positioned a safe distance away from the giant engines. There is going to be quite the explosion when those engines overload. Scrapper is looking as proud as a papa with a newborn in his hands as the Constructicon Leader pats the console of the firing mechanism. "Yes, my creation," he tells the weapon. "Soon it will be time, and the Autobots will pay... starting with Elita One... and then the Militant scum."

Hook leaves the spacebridge, after getting the page from his brother. Okay, so Scrapper didn't really page me, but let's say he did. "I am here Scrapper; what do you need me to do?" he asks, walking over to his younger brother. Yes, Scrapper is younger, so hah! Standing next his artistic brother, he waits for his instructions.

And what's that green bit over there? It's probably Chimera, doing the best imitation of a seeker pretending not to be excited while being excited to see the Autobots start falling. And by the way, did you know she really did help out with the building? Wow. Hopefully it won't blow up or anything. She's bouncing a little, watching the green team assemble.

<Decepticon> Arachnae says, "Breaking formation Airwolf, I'll cover the south, you take the North. Blackmail, keep watch from up above. Hit clusters, the effect will spread out from there."

Bonecrusher is standing next to the giant engines, not even considering the possibility they might blow up, or the fact he could be melted into slag when they come online, but is just looking forward to something happening. He gets bored pretty easily, and this is one occasion where he is showing this. As Scrapper and Hook congregate, he thinks he better move in to see what's happening. "Hook, you retard! Why do you think we are here?" He says gruffly. "Uhh... Scrapper, why -are- we here?"

<Decepticon> Blackmail says, "Understood, my optics are your optics.."

Scrapper looks up and away from his discussion with the inanimate objects at the sound of Hook and Bonecrusher's voice. "I have assembled the Constructicons here to join in with the spoils of our labour. The "Death Star 2" and the Mars Engines are both ready for use." He shows off some rare leadership skills here, "Bonecrusher, get to the controls of the "Laser", and aim it at Hawaii... you are searching for a specific mech... Elita One. And you, Hook, get the engines ready for overload. We'll only get one shot at this before they short out."

Scrapper then adds in an off-handed manner. "Get your troop to help you, Bonecrusher." And who is BC's troop?

Hook gives Scrapper a short nod. When it's an order, it's an order. He walks over to the Mars Engines. He starts running diagnostics and doing other engineering crap, typical of what any good scientist would do in preperation to destroy the Earth. Yay collateral damages!

Bonecrusher gets to shoot the thing? "Alright!" He shouts as he bounds towards the control seat with giant leaps. After sitting down, he is about to start pressing buttons at random, but thinks better of it on this occasion. "Chimera! Chimera? Get over here now, your Commander needs your assistance to... blow stuff up." Yeah, that'll get her attention. Turning to look over the back of the chair, his optics fall on Scrapper. "Say brother, aren't there better Autobrats to shoot than Elita One? Are we just shooting her 'cos she knocked the oil out of you?"

It's a huge frickin' 'LASER' gun. You already have her full attention. And Chimera's appearing at Bonecrusher's left elbow almost before he finishes asking Scrapper why he wants to shoot Elita. "You need some help?"

Scrapper snaps back, "I already told you, she didn't beat the oil out of me! She had her flunkies and twerps to help her, remember?" Let me know when you have her in your sights, Bonecrusher. And Chimera..." Scrapper peers at her, curious as to what her reaction will be to attacking a femme that isn't Moonracer. She wants to help blow her up. Seems normal enough for Chimera. Elita, by the way, is in the water just off of Hawaii. "Are you set, Hook?" he calls out to the Constructicon second in command.

"Almost, just one more test. I /really/ do not want the engines to blow up in our face." Hook says, tapping a few commands into his datapad, which is hooked to the engines. After a few moments, he disconnects the datapad. "Mars Engines ready for firing." he reports, standing up straight. "Waiting for the go-ahead." Man, Hook really can follow orders when he wants to, can't he?

Chimera has wanted to kill Elita One for quite a while. And has attacked her before, rendering her unconscious in battle. Rembember those pieces of Elita armour that you got, Scrapper? That'd be why. Reaction. Feh. Wanting to kill Elita is one of the reasons that DepthCharge caught her.

Bonecrusher nods at the femme, "Ok, just make sure I don't do anything -too- stupid. Scrapper would blow a fuse if I messed this up, and would probablytry to dismantle me." He states. "Not that he could, of course, he couldn't even beat Elita One." Bonecrusher raise his voice so Scrapper can clearly hear this bit. "No doubt Hook would help him though, since I'm not as 'perfect' as he is." Without further debate, the Demolitions man starts swinging about in the chair, trying to line the 'LASER' up to the Autobot's coordinates. "Ok Scrapper, should I fire now?" He just doesn't listen, does he?

Hook, under his 'breath', mutters, "Shut the slag up, Bonecrusher."

Chimera eyes the coordinates, sorta squints her optics, "You sure that's the right coordinates? You did put in compensation for the earth's gravitational force, and the curvature of the planet?" Picky? Nah.

Everyone wants to kill Elita, then. It is a universal truth, almost as much a law as Decepticons hating DepthCharge. The Constructicon stands with his brothers and their troop (cough), with one on one firing trigger of a doomsday weapon, and another on another firing trigger of a doomsday weapon. Scrapper would make a speech here, but just that fact alone says it enough. Hook can answer Chims questions since he did all the calculations. Ignoring the bickering between the two, Scrapper gets right to the heart of the matter. "Fire." He says to both Hook and Bonecrusher.

Bonecrusher peers at Chimera, "The what and the what? How does all that gobledegook affect this? You better take this up with Scrapper 'cos I don't really..." His answer is cut short by the order to fire. Bonecrusher is filled with so much glee, he doesn't even bother to question Hook about the comment he couldn't make out but was certain it was about him. With a tight squeeze, the trigger to the space gun is pulled, the circuits inside it buzz with life, the firing sequence has been activated, without Bonecrusher blowing it up!

Wow. No explosions? Chimera would be disappointed if she didn't know that someone was going to get zorched. "Just throws the beam off a little." she explains. "Probably not enough to make a difference."

Hook nods to his brother. Finally, the time has come. Time to see if this actually works. It should. Hook has worked far too much on this project to have it fall flat on its face now. Wordlessly, he initiates the start-up sequence. "Engines coming online." The engines start humming, buzzing with energy...(Whatever Scrapper plans the engines to do. :P)

<Earth> Meanwhile, in space, two doomsday weapons are activated at the same time. The first causes a massive energy surge on the surface of the planet Mars momentarily before a massive blue beam streaks out from the red sphere, arcing across space with careful precision and slashing through the Terran atmosphere. Right before the beam strikes the planet, one can almost smell the ozone burning. And then the "Laser" strikes, smashing into the ocean off the coast of Hawaii, aimed for a certain pink femme with a lot of enemies.

But this is dwarfed by the second doomsday device, another surge, bigger than the first, can be detected on the red planet. Seems like nothing has happened, but astronomers across the globe immediately notice the difference. Mars is now moving away from its previous orbit. Moving towards Earth.

<Autobot> Inferno says, "Son of a... Autahbot Main ta all respondin' companies, did I just see that? Tell me ah just didn't see that..."

Scrapper watches as the beam lances upwards into the sky. "Hoo hah!" he shouts, pumping his arm into the air. "Good shot, you two!" he congratulates Bonecrusher and Chimera, even if he hasn't seen the results yet. "Hopefully that will be the last of her, AND the last of any other Autobot swine in the area." Glancing over his shoulder, he asks Hook the important question. "Are we on course, Hook?" he asks, just in case they need to bail off of this planet real quick-like.

<Autobot> Inferno says, "*static*-ammit, Autahbot Main ta a-*static*-arge energy discharge ov-*static*-itch charged th' Primus da-*static*-osphere... Am ah even gettin' out on-*static*-ang!?"

Bonecrusher would be dissapointed if this didn't work, but would enjoy laughing at Hook. However, the beam of death shoots off through space as planned, and Bonecrusher punches the air with a fist, leaping a good foot or two off his seat. "Die Autobots! Die real good!" He exclaims before breaking into a manic laugh. Once he is done, he turns to Chimera, "See the power of the Constructions? We are the greatest Decepticons ever created."

Chimera smirks at Bonecrusher, and refrains from giving the stock answer of 'Galvatron is the greatest decepticon ever created'.... instead she just starts checking monitors, hoping to see charred pink bits floating in the water.

<Autobot> Colonel Marissa says, "I saw it, Inf*static* but I wis*static*n't."

<Autobot> Colonel Marissa says, "All... Defence... now on... status, Inferno?"

<Autobot> Inferno says, "Copy tha-*static*-... Shiftin' freq ta VLF band... *pause* Got it. Roll freq ta five-five-dot-two-seven-five hertz, EDC main. Ah got large energy discharge, surface impact unknown, looks ta be from orbit. Y'all pickin' anythin' up?"

<Decepticon> Scrapper says, "Primary volley has been fired, Lord Galvatron. Shall we shift to our secondary target, as planned?"

<Decepticon> Galvatron says, "Tarantulas Really Eat Nerdtastic Turtles"

Hook considers the question for a moment. "We should be; everything went according to our plan." He says confidently. "But, if you want me to check, then I will check." Hook runs a programme (Oh my god I'm going British!) of some sort of another. He taps some keys, and watches the screen for a moment. He stands up, and smiles broadly. "We are on target, brother." Oh, he's happy! That's can't be good for the Autobots!

Galvatron has arrived.

<Autobot> Colonel Marissa says, "Copernicus Station hasn't detected anything in Earth's orbit that could have caused this, but their sensors are still faulty and sporadic due to the damage done to it. (she politely declines reminding everyone what caused said damage)"

<Decepticon> Galvatron says, "Well, did you get it?"

<Decepticon> Scrapper says, "That is next on our list, Commander."

Scrapper congratulates the other Constructicons who are just standing around. "It's a beautiful sight, brothers. A beautiful sight indeed!" He rushes up to Bonecrusher and slaps him on the back. "Next target, Bonecrusher, is at the request of our mighty lord himself. It'll be a tough shot from this angle, but I think we can pull it off. Bonecrusher, target Ayotzinco, Mexico... Headquarters of the infernal Militants!" To Hook, Scrapper beams, "Good, good!" He flips open his radio to speak to those on Earth.

<Autobot> Inferno says, "Copy that, EDC Main... Whutever th' hell that was, ah don't think it was someone sayin' howdy. You contacted Seismological yet? Anythin' that big's gotta be causin' some shakin' 'fore too long."

<Autobot> Jazz says, "We're readin' you, Inferno. Got a location for that beam for you-- off the coast of Hawaii. We're at the scene, man. There's some heavy waves comin' in now."

<Decepticon> Scrapper says, "New Crystal City, begin bringing the flood forcefields online, and the energon collectors."

<Autobot> Colonel Marissa says, "I, wait. Hold on, incoming emergency transmission *there's about a one minute pause before Marissa returns*. We... seem to have a second problem. Mars is moving towards Earth."

<Decepticon> Arachnae says, "Mission accomplished. Subsequent datacheck for affect will commence shortly."

<Decepticon> Galvatron says, "And, prepare my barbeque grill and the kegs. We're having a roast."

<Earth> James Trent says, "This is commander Trent from Mexico to Alameda. We detected something strange about the 4th planet of the solar system. It is leaving its orbit. Can you confirm our data?"

<Decepticon> Scrapper says, "I've stol- er, 'borrowed' some of Mixmaster's finest for the occasion, my Lord."

<Earth> A dark laugh can be heard.

Galvatron lands on Mars, just a bit too late. He hates being late. He looks around, "So, it worked then? Good. Proceed."

Chimera continues to be evil and stuff, and the henchmen at Bonecrusher's left. Er. Not that she's really there for anything but decoration at the moment, since Bonecrusher can obviously fire the 'laser' on his own. And Hook keeps coming up with the calculations. The only thing that's missing is the cat....

<Autobot> Inferno says, "Holy Primus... Flashover, sound general quarters. Autobot Main ta San Francisco Main, set threat level Delta, confirmation, Inferno - Bravo Echo Four Niner Four Three Sierra. EDC Main, you sure you ain't seein' things? That's a whole damn PLANET yer talkin' 'bout."

Bonecrusher once again swings the 'LASER' to aim at the next target, taking a good deal of time to make the minute adjustments needed to make the shot. "That place is a good as gone! But I dunno why we wasted the first shot on Elita One, and now we are destroying a bunch of spiders and turtles that have over run the Militants. Shouldn't we just let them continue to fight each other?" He asks dumbly. Checking the monitor carefully, he seems to be happy. "Locked on and recharged. Are we ready to go?"

<Autobot> Colonel Marissa's cool as a cucumber routine flickers briefly. "There's no mistake here, Inferno. Copernicus has confirmed the report."

<Earth> Marissa says, "Confirmed, Commander."

<Earth> Inferno says, "That's affirmative, Mexico... Ah ain't one ta tell y'all go-getters how ta do things, but ah'd highly recommend ya put yer coastal first response agencies on level 1 stage n' wait fer the nasty."

Hook is about to ask Scrapper something, but then Galvatron arrives, and Hook turns to face is leader. He gives his Master and Commander a respectful bow, before turning again to his brother Scrapper. "Scrapper, can I pick the next target? I have one in mind, if it is all right with you, of course." Oh wow, Hook's really being respectful of his brother's authority. Or maybe it's just becuase Galvatron is here?

Galvatron says, "MILITANTS?! I want TRENT. JAMES TRENT> Not Mexico. TRENT. Can it be done?""

Scrapper opens his vocalizer to reply to Bonecrusher, but then closes it again. He shakes his head and resists the urge to smack BC one and turn the handling of the "Death Star 2" over to Chimera. "Just... just fire the slaggin' weapon, Bonecrusher. Ayotzinco. Hopefully we'll nail the blasted fleshbag that's chirping away over the broadband right now." Scrapper chuckles, "Maybe we'll find out if he's dead whether he stops or not." Looking over his shoulder, Scrapper grunts and nods. "If Galvatron is fine with it, the nso am I." He hesitates at Galvatron. "Well... we can aim for the source of his transmissions... I guess. Bonecrusher, do so and fire when ready."

Scrapper also watches as the blue little marble in the sky called Earth starts to get closer.

<Earth> James Trent says, "Emergency procedures engaged. Cloud and Nova are taking off, all Fire squads are on alert. We are ready to evacuate our west coast."

Bonecrusher nods at Scrapper. "Ok Number. 2, since you have been so loyal to me, I'll let you do the honours." He says to Chimera, pointing towards the trigger. This is a hard shot to pull off, and with Galvatron here, he doesn't want to be the one who misses. No, Chimera can do that for him, and no doubt she'll jump at the chance to shoot this thing.

<Earth> Inferno says, "Do it. Do it now. Ah'm already catchin' seismic activity. EDC Main, any word from offshore n' DEW stations awn a coastal surge?"

<KNUJ> Radio DJ Broadcast fades the piano playing. "Ladies and gentlemen, here is the latest bulletin from the Intercontinental Radio News. Toronto, Canada: Professor Morse of McGill University reports observing a total of three explosions on the planet Mars, between the hours of 7:45 P. M. and 9:20 P. M., eastern standard time. This confirms earlier reports received from American observatories. Now, nearer home, comes a special announcement from Trenton, New Jersey. It is reported that at 8:50 P. M. a huge, flaming object, believed to be a meteorite, fell on a farm in the neighborhood of Grovers Mill, New Jersey, twenty-two miles from Trenton. %RThe flash in the sky was visible within a radius of several hundred miles and the noise of the impact was heard as far north as Elizabeth. %R We have dispatched a special mobile unit to the scene, and will have our commentator, Carl Phillips, give you a word description as soon as he can reach there from Princeton. In the meantime, we take you to the Hotel Martinet in Brooklyn, where Bobby Millette and his orchestra are offering a program of dance music. "

<Earth> James Trent says, "What in the bloody hell is happening on that planet?... Evacuation procedures engaged on the west coast."

Hook just stands at the ready, watching Earth get closer...And hoping that he was right about his caculations. Because if he messed up, that would be BAD.

<Earth> Marissa says, "Many, many reports, I'm afraid. The authorities are evacuating the west coast, but... California, British Columbia... they all have major cities, evacuation is not going to be swift."

Galvatron nods happily, "Good. Then let us proceed. This ought to be quite entertaining. Pity my inteverview didn't post to the news before this. True pity. Course, we can always spin this to be the Autobots fault, we're just trying to stop their mad experiment." he chuckles, "YES! That's it!"

Jump? She's been playing nice with Bonecrusher all along to make sure that she gets the chance to play with the 'LASER'. Besides... Chimera is a sharpshooter anyhow. Maybe she'll do even better than Bonecrusher. She barely needed the invitation-- She's ready to make an attempt. "Why thank you." She smirks, eying the calculations. Tilting her head. "Hmm." she says, "Okay." And she pulls the trigger. No more questions here.

<Earth> James Trent says, "At least we were already ready to evacuate the west coast... crashing and shooting into the pacific ocean seems to be a popular thing to do these days..."

<KNUJ> Radio DJ Broadcast :plays Swing for twenty seconds and then cuts.

ANNOUNCER TWO: We take you now to Grovers Mill, New Jersey.

(CROWD NOISES . . . POLICE SIRENS)

PHILLIPS: Ladies and gentlemen, this is Carl Phillips again, at the Wilmuth farm, Grovers Mill, New Jersey. Professor Pierson and myself made the eleven miles from Princeton in ten minutes. Well, I . . . I hardly know where to begin, to paint for you a word picture of the strange scene before my eyes, like something out of a modern "Arabian Nights." Well, I just got here. I haven't had a chance to look around yet. I guess that's it. Yes, I guess that's the . . . thing, directly in front of me, half buried in a vast pit. Must have struck with terrific force. The ground is covered with splinters of a tree it must have struck on its way down. What I can see of the . . . object itself doesn't look very much like a meteor, at least not the meteors I've seen. It looks more like a huge cylinder. It has a diameter of . . . what would you say, Professor Pierson?

<Earth> James Trent says, "ooc : so=do"

<Earth> And from the heavens comes another blast, but this one is not aimed at Hawaii, but rather at an attempt to pin-point the source of the transmissions spewing from Ayotzinco, Mexico. The radio signals being caused by James Trent, to be specific. The Dinobot-wide blast cuts through space like a hot knife through butter. The angle of this shot is much more difficult, given that Mars was over Hawaii for the first shot. Regardless, with unerring determination, the beam lances into the heart of Militant territory.

<Earth> But then, said planet is getting closer and closer as we speak.

<Earth> Inferno says, "Ah'll hold back th' damn ocean mahself if'n ah gotta. Autahbot Main ta San Francisco Main, we need NOAA in the air, pronto. If DoD hasn't put Orions in the sky yet, we need them, too. Approximate surge depth n' rate a' travel. EDC Main, ah got crews in-route fer evac assistance, but... ah ain't got th' bodies ta cover th' whole damn coastline. Y'all got-SON OF A... SAN FRANCISCO MAIN, THREAT LEVEL ALPHA. GET 'EM IN THE AIR, DAMMIT."

Long Haul has connected.

<KNUJ> Radio DJ Broadcast says, "Ladies and gentlemen, you've just heard Mr. Wilmuth, owner of the farm where this thing has fallen. I wish I could convey the atmosphere . . . the background of this . . . fantastic scene. Hundreds of cars are parked in a field in back of us. Police are trying to rope off the roadway leading to the farm. But it's no use. They're breaking right through. Cars' headlights throw an enormous spot on the pit where the object's half buried. Some of the more daring souls are now venturing near the edge. Their silhouettes stand out against the metal sheen.

(FAINT HUMMING SOUND)

One man wants to touch the thing . . . he's having an argument with a policeman. The policeman wins. . . . Now, ladies and gentlemen, there's something I haven't mentioned in all this excitement, but now it's becoming more distinct. Perhaps you've caught it already on your radio. Listen:

(LONG PAUSE) . . .

Do you hear it? It's a curious humming sound that seems to come from inside the object. I'll move the microphone nearer. (PAUSE) Now we're not more then twenty-five feet away. Can you hear it now? Oh, Professor Pierson!

<KNUJ> Radio DJ Broadcast says, "(OOC: Is skipping parts... Yes.)"

<Earth> James Trent says, "Damnation! Ayotzinco *zzzzz* hit. We are xxxer attaxx. I repeat xxxx under attacks."

Scrapper watches as Chimera practically warps into the firing chair for the second blast. "We should be able to get off a few more shots before we need to recharge, my Lord." He tells Galvatron. Casting a glance over towards Hook, he asks, "What was the target you had in mind?" Scrapper already knows the answer is going to be Streetwise. Bah! Streetwise is not worthy! The Constructicon idly wonders when it will be time to break out the ener-booze.

Long Haul hunkers down into his truck mode, settling heavily down upon the ground with his four massive wheels. Just another day on the job.

<KNUJ> Radio DJ Broadcast basically will be taking this format 'http://www.sacred-texts.com/ufo/mars/wow.htm'

<Earth> Marissa says, "Report on your status, Trent! Trent? Goddamnit, we're all sitting ducks on this entire side of the planet."

<Earth> James Trent says, "We can't *zzzzz* origin of the att***"

Galvatron laughs heartily at the Earth transmissions. "I love it! Brilliant! Brilliant! Before we are done. Hit them again. Let others have their fun first. Glorious work Scrapper. Constructicons. Make it TRIPLE energon."

<Decepticon> Galvatron says, "What is going on? *repressed snicker*"

<Earth> Broadcast misbroadcasts, "Eight army bombers in engagement with enemy tripod machines over Jersey flats. Engines incapacitated by heat ray. All crashed. One enemy machine destroyed. Enemy now discharging heavy black smoke in direction of --"

<Earth> James Trent says, "***sealing base***evacuating president and **** lady"

Galvatron sends a long-range radio transmission to Inferno.

Long Haul rolls on towards the Death-Star...surprisingly enough, at a very, very fast pace. At least, as fast as his engine can really take him. Which...sadly, isn't a very big velocity. He's got his bed loaded full of energon cubes- no doubt for the use as being fuel for that bigass cannon. "You started without me?" he whines- it's quite an accomplishment for a truck to whine. "I wanna shoot the laser!"

Galvatron says, "LONG HAUL! Please! It's "laser" ""

<Earth> Marissa says, "What in the blazes... what are you reporting on, Junkion? Bombers where?"

<Earth> Galvatron says, "What in the name of...what are you humans up to?!"

<Earth> Galvatron says, "My entire city is shaking!"

<Earth> Broadcast guesses that the EDC want to hear War of the Worlds too, so broadcasts a segment, 'This is Newark, New Jersey . . . This is Newark, New Jersey . . . Warning! Poisonous black smoke pouring in from Jersey marshes. Reaches South street. Gas masks useless. Urge population to move into open spaces . . .automobiles use Routes 7, 23, 24 . . . Avoid congested areas. Smoke now spreading over Raymond Boulevard . . . ' but of course in the real voices from the radio show.

<Earth> Inferno says, "Autahbot main ta... *RUMBLE* ...Primus have mercy, I got HEAVY seismics. Evac teams Foxtrot, Hotel, November, Oscar, Quebec, Zulu, reassignment... *RUMBLE* Dammit, hold that bulkhead 'er ah'll scalp ya whur you stand, private! Evac teams, insertion fer mass casualty, assume jurisdictional assistance n' fer cryin' out loud, notify th' local IC yer there. Autahbot Main ta EDC Main, that traffic's comin' from south a' here... Triangulatin'... Fer' Primus sakes, Junkion Main, clear that damn traffic 'er else ah'm rippin' yer vocalizer through yer tailpipe. You AIN'T helpin'."

<Earth> Galvatron says, "Someone had better answer me or I'm going to start removing faces."

<Earth> Galvatron says, "And why is the junkion broadcasting Unicron's voice?!"

Bonecrusher turns as Long Haul rolls up. "No way Long Haul! I was here first, and I'M the one who does the destroyin' around here. Don't you have some packages to deliver, while I get on with MY job? Where am I aiming next, Scrapper?" He shoos Chimera away now that she's had her fun so he can get ready to change the angle of attack.

<Earth> Inferno says, "Hold yer water, unidentified, unless yer makin' a report. EDC Main, I got seismics poppin' off th' charts at EVERY damn station this side a' th' planet."

Chimera peers at the controls of the laser, and ... mmm. Shiny buttons. . . "What? Hey.." she protests, briefly, then goes back to being just the pretty face around the planet.

Hook chuckles as Scrapper asks a silly question. "Who else. That annoying Autobot wussy named Streetwise." As Bonecrusher yells at Long Haul, Hook waves dismissivly. "Can we ALL have some fun?"

<Earth> Marissa says, "This is EDC Main, we're beginning the pick up the effects of the closer proximity of Mars. If this doesn't stop - and by God I can't think of a reason that it would - we're going to have even bigger problems on our hands."

<Earth> Galvatron says, "Did that anus just refer to me as unidentified? Listen, SON, or have you forgotten your father. THIS IS GALVATRON. And Galvatron wants a freaking answer before he starts blasting things and making your job even harder!"

Galvatron snickers for unknown reasons, his radio going haywire.,

Scrapper grunts and looks at his brothers. "I don't care who fires the "Laser" next. I just want to keep shooting at things! How about Rodimus?" Scrapper suggests. "Rodimus is always worthy of being blasted." Like a mother to his children, Scrapper says. "Now now, you and Chimera had your turn, and then it will be yours once Long Haul goes." He gestures at the dump truck. "Long Haul! Go blast one of our enemies to smithereens!" he orders.

<Earth> James Trent says, "Ayotzinco is burning. The pyramid and the central plaze have been hit. We are currently evacuating the wounded, but we still don't know what hit us."

<KNUJ> Radio DJ Broadcast says, "I'm speaking from the roof of the Broadcasting Building, New York City. The bells you hear are ringing to warn the people to evacuate the city as the Martians approach. Estimated in last two hours three million people have moved out along the roads to the north, Hutchison River Parkway still kept open for motor traffic. Avoid bridges to Long Island . . . hopelessly jammed. All communication with Jersey shore closed ten minutes ago. No more defenses. Our army wiped out . . . artillery, air force, everything wiped out. This may be the last broadcast. We'll stay here to the end . . . People are holding service below us . . . in the cathedral."

Long Haul rumbles closer towards those other decepticons, chuckling a bit. He remains in truck mode, however. "Oh. Right. "Laser" Well, won't somebody unload me already? We gotta dump these energon cubes into the "Death Star 2" already." Funny how he manages the quotes without fingers.

Galvatron says, "Scrapper. Target Broadcasting building, New York city. Even the Terrans want the junkion silenced.""

Hook laughs, and starts unloading Long Haul, and puts the cubes in the laser. No Quotes for you!

<Decepticon> Galvatron says, "Building Really Orange Anal Dart Canker Artistic Sores Tickles."

Bonecrusher moves away from the 'laser' with his arms crossed, looking rather sullen. "Fine! See if this block head can do as good a job as me. If things hurry up, maybe he can get another go, so he helps Hook with the unloading.

<Decepticon> Hook laughs. "Understood sir!"

<Earth> Inferno says, "Fer Primus sakes... Seattle is reporting heavy casualties, thirty foot surge. Heavy damage from seismics. Reports comin' in from all along shoreline confirms damage n' surge. N' there ain't a damn thing else we can do."

As soon as the last energon cube is lifted from Long Haul's bed, he transforms, rushing up to the "Laser" like a fat kid waddling towards a chocolate cake. "My turn! My turn!" he shouts, gleefully.

Long Haul plunks down into the gunner's seat (Possibly shoving any non-Galvatron types out of the way with his beefy, beefy strength, should it be nessescary.) He simply sits in the seat for a few long, long moments, luxuriating in the feel, the POWER of the "Laser" weapon. A proper place for a proper warrior! Like Long Haul!

Scrapper rushes over to help Hook with the unloading process. "The next target is Hawaii once more, Long Haul. The Junkion. Just search for the source of those annoying transmissions." He orders. "Oh, and have -fun- while you're doing it. This is supposed to be a family gathering!" The Constructicon watches Long Haul take his seat, for once proud of his brother. Anyone can look cool at the seat of the "Laser".

The green dump truck rears back, turning itself into a formidable Decepticon Warrior! Well, no, not really. It's just Long Haul.

<Earth> Galvatron says, "Fascinating."

<Earth> James Trent says, "This is too much for us... we cannot continu like this, we must stop whatever is causing all those disasters."

Long Haul pauses, then looks over at Scrapper. "The Junkion? Awww, man. I wanted to shoot somebody, like...like..." Unfortunately, he hasn't got a big long list of folks that he wants to zap. "Um...Tailgate?" Ah well. Seems he can't FIND Tailgate. Curses! "Alright, alright..." Long Haul takes the controls with those meaty (well, not THAT Meaty, they're metal) hands of his, and starts sighting in as best he can.

<Earth> Galvatron says, "Ah. Finally an answer. You don't know what's causing them either."

<Earth> James Trent says, "Could someone pull his plug?"

<Earth> Galvatron says, "Perhaps, Commander...if you used the power of humanity...they would stop? Remember, it can overcome anything! Oh wait, I shouldn't say such things. I was smart enough to fortify my island. It's still annooying. So please, do stop it."

<Earth> Hook says, "Um...is that MARS up there?\"

<Earth> Galvatron says, "BY PRIMUS! Unicron's voice was right!"

<Earth> Marissa says, "Rodimus... or whoever's in command of the Hawaii-stationed Autobots, we've detected waves approaching your area. I'd brace yourself and do what you can for the local population."

<Earth> Galvatron says, "Bring me the "little green" men!"

Long Haul finally pulls the trigger. "FIRE! HAW! HAW! HAW!" Yeah, he's gotta work on his evil laugh, there. "Eat Burning Energy...Hurty...Death...KILLING! IN THE FACE! YEAH!"

<Earth> Jazz says, "We're workin' on gettin' things battened down, Marissa. Just a couple more minutes. Any ETA for us?"

<Earth> Inferno growls audibly, followed by the loud slamming of the microphone against a hard surface at a rapid velocity. Also known as, Inferno throwing the mic across the room. A moment passes with a squeal of feedback, then the furious drawl returns. "Ah swear wit' ev'ry last drop a' energon that thumps through mah chest, ah'm comin', Galvatrawn. This whole mess stinks jes' like YOU. N' ah'm takin' ev'ry last life lost, ev'ry last buildin' that fell, ev'ry last soul yer sorry lot stole n' tearin' 'em out yer tailpipe. So help me Primus, ah'm gonna do it 'er die tryin'.

<Earth> Marissa says, "Ten minutes until it starts. Fifteen until it starts getting -really- nasty."

Galvatron says, "That's the spirit!"

<KNUJ> Radio DJ Broadcast says, "As I set down these notes on paper, I'm obsessed by the thought that I may be the last living man on earth. I have been hiding in this empty house near Grovers Mill -- a small island of daylight cut off by the black smoke from the rest of the world. All that happened before the arrival of these monstrous creatures in the world now seems part of another life. . . a life that has no continuity with the present, furtive existence of the lonely derelict who pencils these words on the back of some astronomical notes bearing the signature of Richard Pierson. I look down at my blackened hands, my torn shoes, my tattered clothes, and I try to connect them with a professor who lives at Princeton, and who on the night of October 30, glimpsed through his telescope an orange splash of light on a distant planet. My wife, my colleagues, my students, my books, my observatory, my. . . my world. . . where are they? Did they ever exist? Am I Richard Pierson? What day is it? Do days exist without calendars? Does time pass when there are no human hands left to wind the clocks? . . .In writing down my daily life I tell myself shall preserve human history between the dark covers of this little book that was meant to record the movements of the stars. . . But to write I must live, and to live, I must eat . . . I find moldy bread in the kitchen, and an orange not too spoiled to swallow. I keep watch at the window. From time to time I catch sight of a Martian above the black smoke. The smoke still holds the house in its black coil. . . but at length there is a hissing sound and suddenly I see a Martian mounted on his machine, spraying the air with a jet of steam, as if to dissipate the smoke. I watch"

<Earth> Galvatron says, "First. I had no idea until HOOK pointed it out. Second, Son, remember what happened last time you did that? You became the fruit of my loins. And no Trent, robots can't have sexual relations. Get it out of your head."

<Earth> James Trent says, "Situation under control in Ayotzinco. We are evacuating our wounded. Evacuation is going well on the west coast."

<Earth> LASERS!

FROM SPACE!

Well, it's really just one laser- or, more technically, "Laser." It starts as a simple twinkle of light in the sky, growing brighter, and brighter, and brighter...and then it's there! Travelling at the speed of light (which is pretty damn fast, dontchaknow). The pillar of purple light streaks down from the sky, zeroing in on one particular unfortunate, wherever he may be...

Broadcast.

<Earth> Inferno says, "PD reports San Francisco only 15 percent evacuated... They ain't gonna make it. If seimics keep up at th' rate they's goin', we'll be a whole lot a' blessed if LA ain't sittin' under a hunnert feet a' water."

<Earth> Galvatron says, "Didn't they make a movie about this?"

<Earth> Long Haul says, "You mean Batman?"

<Earth> Galvatron says, "No, you ignorant whelp...what was it called...."

<Earth> Long Haul says, "Batman Two: Electric Boogaloo?"

<Earth> Inferno says, "Dammit, whur's Blaster when ya NEED th' guy."

<Decepticon> Arachnae says, "NCC monitoring stations, volcano seismic readings showing rise in levels. The systems in place are currently holding. Energy generators in place and online shoreside and in deep waters. Shield generators operating at 15%% of maximium and steady. We're starting to see a little bit of athmospheric.. evidence of your arrival, my lord."

<Decepticon> Galvatron says, "Excellent."

<Decepticon> Galvatron says, "Is everything moving along without fear?"

<Earth> Jazz says, "He's at a conference on Ceti Alpha 9. 'least thats what he told me."

<Decepticon> Arachnae says, "Suggestion to ready trypticon and seal all base operations for the time being in preparation."

<Decepticon> Galvatron says, "The day after tomorrow, or some idiocy like that. Shockwave brought it up in his culture studies."

<Decepticon> Galvatron says, "It's probably Gayferno's favorite movie."

Scrapper watches the "laser" beam shoot upwards. "I almost wish I was on Earth right now, seeing what Elita, Trent, and our good buddy Broadcast is up to right now." The Constructicon chuckles and dusts off his hands. Seemingly from no-where, the celebration ener-beer begins getting passed around. I suspect Mixmaster's foul play in this. The Constructicon takes an ener-beer anyway and tosses one to Long Haul to catch.

<Earth> Inferno says, "Talk to me, Jazz... If'n y'alls rockin' n' rollin' like we are, ya best be lookin' fer a rowboat."

<Decepticon> Arachnae says, "I wouldn't know about that, Galvatron. I didn't ask him what his favorite movie was when I last saw him."

Galvatron hmmms, "Vote. Rodimus or Inferno? Speak now."

Scrapper pipes up without a pause. "Inferno." Rodimus sucks. I know it, you know it, we all know it.

Hook says, "Can we do both of them?"

Galvatron says, "No. Scrapper says one shot left.""

Bonecrusher looks at Galvatron, "I say we send Inferno to the... inferno. Or something."

<KNUJ> Radio DJ Broadcast is continueing the broadcasts of 'WoW' and there is a loud sound of something hitting something. In this case, this something happens to be Broadcast being hit by the laser. There isn't even a scream. Broadcast just goes cold and out of it. One of the Junkions yells, "You Commie <censored>! You killed Kenny!" Another yells, "OJ! OJ struck!" "Yatzee!" "Dude, where's his legs? I think they're up his... eww!" Another Junkion starts singing, "Blinded by the light. Revved up like a deuce, another runner in the night." Another Junkion scowls, "Dude, that was ficking awesome. How'd he do that?" The other Junkions just start to pick up the body of their leader. Broadcast has been deactivated. "How the Hell are we going to go home now? He's our ride!" "We can sell his parts on eBay and go to Disney World. We'd be safe there." Ah, the joy of the Junkions not really touching the issue.

Galvatron says, "And I will not risk this BATTLE STATION over one shot!"

Long Haul catches the Beer- well, it's more of a 'fumble' for it- whereupon he's left with a connundrum. Open the beer, and risk spilling it's delicious contents on the controls? Or relinquish the wonderful power of the gunner's seat. "Um. Inferno?" he turns, looking perplexed.

<Earth> Jazz says, "Row row row yer boat, 'Ferno. We're tryin' to get as many humans offa the beaches and into shelter ASAP. Goin' to grab a couple of-- What the heck was that?"

<Earth> Galvatron says, "Beers?"

<Earth> Galvatron says, "Wench, while you're at it, grab me one."

<Earth> Galvatron says, "WHAT? I was talking to Autobot WENCH."

Galvatron says, "I vote Rodimus, but it seems I am outvoted. Inferno it is."

Hook says, "Inferno then."

Chimera frowns, generally being the sulky pretty face. Not that her opinon matters anyhow.

Long Haul ums, and scratches at his helm. "...Uh, Lord Galvatron? Since when are we Demo...Republi...since when do we vote?" This freedom of will is confusing!

Scrapper looks up to Galvatron, surprised at this sudden democracy. "Thank you, my Lord. Chimera, Long Haul, Bonecrusher, Hook! I want you all over there for this one to pull the trigger at the same time." Scrapper puts down his ener-beer briefly and takes out a camera to record this shot for all of time. This is a family gathering, afterall. The Constructicon kneels to get a better shot of the event.

Galvatron screams at Long Haul, "SINCE I SAID SO! What is an ASS doing questioning me?! Just do what you wanted!

Hook gives Scrapper a strange look, shrugs, and holds the trigger. Snickering, he looks over to Chimera. "Welcome to the family, Chimera."

And I don't think I need to tell anyone who's going to be getting a copy of this beautiful photo.

Galvatron!

Long Haul?

Chimera?

Bonecrusher grins, "Sure thing Scrapper. Is this picture gonna be sent to our friend Omega Supreme?" He walks up and stands next to the 'laser'. "Yeah Long Haul. You ass."

Long Haul cringes at Galvatron's bellowing- yet deep, deep down inside, it feels good. Everything is as it should be. Except for Hook pawing over the trigger. "You're gonna mess it uuuup!" he says at the surgical engineer. Not like Hook, with his actual, you know, competence, will. But it's still a risk!

<KNUJ> Radio DJ Broadcast's crew are huddled around Broadcast. One of them, not a medic, says, "Get a stick! Poke him like that dead squirrel we found in the lake!" Another nonmedic says, "He's dead Jim! Dammit!" Finally a medic Junkion emerges, "He's just... stunned. Or dead." The Junkions begin to honor their wounded leader and give him a tribute.

In unision, you can hear the Junkions sing, 'Frre Jacques,

Frre Jacques,

Dormez vous?

Sonnez les matines,

Din, din, don!

Din, din, don!'

Scrapper grins at Bonecrusher, THE ONLY SMART ONE HERE, and nods, "You bet your tin plated behind he will be. He likes to know what we've been up to. Just think of it as sending him a postcard of our travels." Scrapper tsks. "Join the Decepticons, see the Universe... he wasn't kidding," he mutters to himself. "Now, everyone get in the frame... say 'Turbo-geese', and blast Inferno to the pitt."

Chimera is suddenly in a family portrait? EEEK! Of course she's fine with it. After all, she's ... er... one of the family. Kimmie is just gonna watch right now, see.

Hook grins and gets into postion. "Ready when you guys are!"

Galvatron says, "Ready...aim...."

Long Haul simply sits in the gunner chair, and giggles- actually giggles -because he gets to fire TWO shots in a row. He traces in the proper coordinates to draw a bead on the Big Red Machine...

Bonecrusher nods at Hook, "FIRE!" He shouts, before he pushes down on the trigger with one hand, hopefully in unison with everyone else, while waving at the camera with a HUGE grin on his face. "Turbo-geese!"

Hook says, "FIRE!"

<KNUJ> 'The Lost Boys' Junkion Troops are finishing putting the parts of Broadcast away into the box car. "Dude, we got his head in a jar for safe keeping. It's like Futurama! Maybe we should pickle it?" says a Junkion to other. "Wow... I beat Broadcast is just pissed this didn't happen at the Olympics. He could have been shivering and yelling, 'Why! Why me?' over and over." "Snarf... Snarf... What will we do? The Sword of Omens is not here?" "I smell icecream!"

<Earth> And for the last time before the "Death Star 2" needs to recharge from its triumphant debut, the weapon is used upon the heart of the Autobot Faction. The Militants and Junkions have felt its sting, and now it's the Autobots' turn. From the red planet of Mars comes another blast, this one streaking towards San Francisco, out away from the main city. The beam is targeting none other than the Autobots' last line of defence, Autobot City - Metroplex - and those that dwell within.

Galvatron has disconnected.

<KNUJ> 'The Lost Boys' Junkion Troops argue with each other. "We should put his feet in boxes! They are shoes!" Another says, "We should pack his laser core away in the fridge. What do you think, Wild Cat?" "Monkeys have feet!"

<Earth> Inferno says, "Okay, reports 'er comin' in from LA... Sea surges already up 15 feet, heavy seismics, casual-*kaTHWOOOOOOOOOOM!!!*"

<Autobot> Gears says, "Help!!"

<Earth> Marissa says, "Autobot City, report! That blast came down in your area. What's your status?"

<Earth> Marissa says, "Shrike Squadron November Foxtrot Seven, change course to Autobot City, report immediately on the situation there."

<Earth> Bonecrusher says, "Are my audio receptors faulty? Did he just SHUT UP?"

<KNUJ> Radio DJ Broadcast's crew are talking. For a sample of what can be heard, 'http://www.claws-and-paws.com/thundercats/tcats4.mp3' is it.

<Earth> ...static...

...More static...

..."Autahbot Main ta... *COUGH* nnnggghhh... DAMN that hurts...

...even more static...

..."Direct hit... Losin' primary *COUGH* primary power... Primus damn, what th' hell IS that? *COUGH*

<Earth> Marissa says, "Inferno, thank God you're alright. What's Metroplex's status?"

<Earth> Bonecrusher says, "...Yep, I need to visit the Med Bay."

<Earth> Marissa is assuming Inferno will use the Autobot broadband for anything secure.

<Earth> Marissa says, "Shut up, Decepticon. You're not helping anything. Funny how none of YOUR sites have been hit."

<Earth> Bonecrusher says, "How do you know that, fleshling? We wouldn't be crying about it if they were, we'd be finding out what was happening then doing something about it."

<Earth> ...static...

"Autahbot Main ta EDC Main... HOLD TH' LINE! PUSH 'ER DOWN THAT HALLWAY 'ER WE LOSE TH' WHOLE DAMN COMMAND CENTER! WIDE FOG, FORM RANKS!" "But Sir!" "I don't GIVE a damn if ya cain't find yer arm... Charge that standpipe 'er ah'll rip off th' other one n' beat ya wit' th' wet end! EDC Main, status unknown, all systems offline, secondaries 'er deader n' a hammer. TIGHTEN UP! NOT A LICK A' THAT FIRE TOUCHES MAH COMMAN' POST! Th' whole damn thing is burnin'. TIGHTEN UP-KAWHOOOOOM!

From afar, Chimera (kim) was afraid she was gonna fall asleep in the middle.

<Earth> Long Haul says, "Yeah! I mean, um...reports of...Fire...in...Sector...five...twelve."

<Earth> Bonecrusher says, "Err, yeah! TIGHTEN UP! NOT A LICK A' THAT FIRE TOUCHES MAH COMMAN' POST!"

<Earth> Hook says, "Sectors two and three on fire, you moron. Now come over and help before I beat the energon out of you...for Primus's sake, SHUT UP!"

<Earth> Marissa says, "Very convincing, Constr-... Inferno? Blast it, we're dispatching emergency teams to Autobot City now. Just HOLD OUT UNTIL THEN." Another voice cuts in from an EDC Shrike, "We have a visual on Metroplex, Colonel. He's been hit and the fire's starting to spread. Can't get a much better idea of what's going on in there from up here.""

<Earth> Hook says, "My apologies, Colonel. My brother is really stupid."

<Earth> Long Haul says, "Oh no! I am on fire! It hurts and stings!"

<Earth> Hook says, "Your own slagging fault, Long Haul..."

<Earth> Bonecrusher says, "Maybe you can send us some help when your done? Some of our buildings have had their paintwork badly damaged. Repeat: Help need at once!"

<Earth> Anna Morgen says, "Bonecrusher, shut up. You are hurting my audials..."

<Earth> Anna Morgen says, "OOC:Hook said that!"

<KNUJ> Radio DJ Broadcast begins to get repaired by his crew. Hell, if the Junkions can put Ultra Magnus back together, this should not be too hard. They are singing 'Tequila' as they get him reactivated. Airhorne, a Junkion aerobot says to the reactivated Broadcast, "Have you ever seen a grown man naked?" to see how damaged their leader is.

<Earth> Anna Morgen says, "Bonecrusher, shut up. You are hurting my audials..."

<Earth> Hook says, "Bonecrusher, shut up. You are hurting my audials..."

<KNUJ> Radio DJ Broadcast is somewhat back to the living. He has a message for Galvatron, "Screw you guys, I'm going home. And may the Scwartz be with you!"

<Earth> Bonecrusher says, "Ok, I get the message, you're too good to help the Decepticons. And Hook is just too proud to ask. Guess I'll have to save our city myself! Hand me that can of paint will ya Long Haul."

<Earth> Hook says, "Bonecrusher...SHUT UP NOW!! And get some REAL work done!"

Chimera has a great seat to watch these guys from. She'd be laughing, but that'd be a sign of a sense of humor. Instead, she just has that bemused little sister look on her face.

<Earth> Ranger emits casually "There aren't many species in existence who would aid those whom they are officially at war with. Especially where no such aid is being offered."

<Earth> Long Haul says, "I'm not offering aid because I'm ON FIRE."

<Earth> Scrapper mutters, "Stupid Autobot."

<Earth> Hook says, "NCC is getting flooded too, you know. Someone get me a pump. That means you Long Haul."

<Earth> Long Haul rassafrats.

<Earth> Bonecrusher says, "Screw you Hook, Scrapper says I'm second in command of the Constructicons, so you can do the painting. And we are helping. We are vocalizing our support!"

<Earth> Countdown says, "Well, if it means much, aren't the Decepticons better in the air than the Autobots? Why don't you just fly into the air and find the problem."

<Earth> Ranger says, "Perhaps, then. You should attempt to aid the Terrans with their /flooding/ problems, that should sudbue the flames."

<Earth> Hook says, "I'm second in command, you aft-face!"

<Earth> Obviously this transmission is from a personal transmitter... It is weak and wavering, unlike the powerful equipment found at Metroplex.

"C'mon, c'mon, c'mon... Back 'er up... THERE." A loud slamming of steel on steel can be heard over the radio. "Weld that bulkhead! Flashover, fire the FM-200, full sweep! Autahbot City Command ta EDC Main, comman' center isolated, full extinguishment in progress. Level one stage outside main entrance n' await status report.

<Earth> Long Haul says, "I'm the Aftman, Crap-for-brains!"

<Earth> Bonecrusher says, "Like HELL you are! Scrapper, tell him!"

<Earth> Hook says, "I HATE YOU!"

<Earth> Scrapper says, "Oh no, my collection of artwork consisting of all Autobot parts, totally fifteen in number and including such marvels as Grimlock, the rest of the Dinobots, Sky Lynx, Metroplex, DepthCharge - YEAH I MEAN YOU, DEPTHCHARGE, YOU WORTHLESS SACK OF SLAG! - and even Rodimus Prime, is getting wet. Whatever can we do to save my artwork, which is far superior to anything Grapple could possibly build."

<Earth> Hook says, "MY BROTHERS ARE STUPID!"

<Earth> Scrapper knew this would come back to haunt him. "Oh oh... uh... lets... deal with this fire first, brothers."

<Earth> Hook says, "Want me to go Motormaster on the lot of you?"

<Earth> Hook says, "Get. To. Work. NOW!"

<Earth> Bonecrusher says, "Ha! You couldn't go Bumblebee on us! And.. wait..ahhh! Now I am ON FIRE! AHH!"

<Earth> Countdown says, "Obviously, this shows the real concern of the Decpeticons. Primus, if Unicron was enough fear for for Galvatron to help the Autobots, why is this alliance not back into place?"

<Earth> Marissa says, "Inferno, if you can hear this, we have emergency personnel on site to help with the fire suppression work."

<Earth> Hook says, "swears at his brothers. "Why do I hang around you guys?""

<Earth> Scrapper says, "Because I can't trade you to Onslaught for Brawl like I wanted to all those vorns ago."

<Earth> Inferno says, "Start EMS if'n y'all haven't, Gen'ral. Ah got a group a' humansthat oughta be fine, but th' FM-200 spread's gonna knock 'em out colder n' a well digger's butt."

<Earth> Bonecrusher says, "Shut up Hook. Cut some slack for those of us that are on fire, eh?"

<Autobot> Countdown says, "This is Countdown..."

<Earth> Hook says, "To use a Terran term, It's your own F**King fault!"

<Autobot> Countdown says, "I am trapped inside the Repair Bay."

<Earth> Bonecrusher says, "No it's not... it's the Autobots fault! They are the ones attacking the Earth and trying to cover it up by attacking their own people!"

<Autobot> Countdown says, "Are we leaving AC for the time being? I am trying to figure out what we are going to do..."

<Autobot> Inferno says, "Keep yer britches awn, soldier. Stand yer ground n' assist wit' activatin' emergency generators fer th' infirmiry."

(New BB message (9/29) posted to 'Reports' by Marissa: The Ultimate Doom)

================================== Reports ===================================

Message: 9/29 Posted Author

The Ultimate Doom Wed Jun 30 Marissa

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Similar such reports can be seen on every channel, phrased in different ways, but the content is all the same. Disaster for the weestern hemisphere.

Marissa Fairbourne is back at the podium. She looks rather weary. "From what we've reconstructed of the incident with the help of Mexican and Autobot authorities, at 7:25pm Hawaiian local time, an powerful laser attack originating from the planet Mars struck just off the coast of Honolulu. The suspected target is Autobot Commander Elita One. Her condition is classified. At the same time as this attack, astronomers across the globe detected... movement from the planet. It is now on a course towards Earth. Our estimates indicate it will /miss/ Earth, but the gravitational pull is certain to be devastating to our planet."

"Regardless, the laser bombardment continued, with shots striking Ayotzinco, Mexico, Hawaii once more, and finally on Autobot City, California." Most news channels take this time to show footage of all this. Floods in Hawaii, fires in Autobot city, etc. "We are already feeling the effects of Mars approaching our planet. Floods have been reported all across the western seaboard, and we are in the process of evacuating."

This is but only a tiny snipet of the interviews of dozens of EDC officials, Autobots, survivors, next of kin, military analysts, astronomers, and many others. You can't flip the channel without hearing about it.

==============================================================================