Transformers Prime: Friendship is Magic (crossover)by PonyformerChaptersChapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 4Chapter 5Chapter 6Chapter 7Chapter 8Chapter 9Chapter 11Chapter 15Chapter 1Chapter 10Chapter 2Jasper, Nevada... On the long desert road, A large green SUV can be seen driving in the sunset, towards a large mountain face. Except this was no ordinary vehicle, it was no other, than the Autobot, Bulkhead. Inside Bulkhead, sitting in the passenger seat, is a young Japanese girl, named Miko Nakadai. "That was the best monster truck rally ever! Wouldn't you say so, Bulkhead?" Miko asked, still in a great mood after seeing the show the just had. "Sure was, Miko," Bulkhead answered. "How about you, Jackie?" Bulkhead spoke into his communicator. Somewhere, flying in the skies of Jasper, was the Autobot ship, the Jackhammer, with the Wrecker, Wheeljack, piloting it. "I've seen better," Wheeljack answered, "Though it was pretty entertaining. Humans, and their cars." "You should stop by the base more, Wheeljack," Miko said into the commuticator. "I'll pass for now," Wheeljack answered. "Besides, I heard Doc-Bot's still holding a grudge." "Aw, come on, Jackie," Bulkhead answered, "Ratchet's always a grouch, even when's he's in a GOOD mood. Don't take it personally." "Yeah," Miko added as she spoke into Bulkhead's radio. "We should totally hang out more. All three of us together, just like today." "I'd love to, I really do, but I still need to find a new source of Energon. Been kinda running low these days." Wheeljack's voice said over Bulkhead's radio. "Need to scout for some new deposits before the Cons get to it." "I hear that," Bulkhead replied. "Megatron's been hitting us hard lately. But good thing we got Smokescreen on the team now. You haven't met him yet, Jackie. He's impulsive, but he's a good kid." "I heard you didn't like him at first, Bulk," Wheeljack replied. "Nah, he's kinda grown on me," Bulkhead answered. "By the way, I'm just glad you made a full recovery after that run in with Hardshell. But as you heard, our junior Wrecker here, scrapped him pretty hard. She did ya proud, Bulk. I'm just glad I'm not burying another one of my old teammates." "Heh, cause no one messes with the Wreckers!" Bulkhead said, as Miko gives a thumbs up. "Anyways, we're about to reach home base. I'll catch you later, Jackie. Bulkhead out." "Later, Bulk. And kid, make sure he stays outta trouble will ya? You take care little Wrecker," Wheeljack said, as he cuts communication. "Very funny, Jackie," Bulkhead mumbled. As Bulkhead pulls into the Autobot base, he's immediately greeted by his new friend, Smokescreen, the Ne recruit to the team. "Heya, Bulkhead,. Enjoy the show?" Smokescreen said in a chipper mood. Miko exits Bulkhead as he transforms into robot mode. "Tonight was a BLAST, Smoke!" Miko answered. "You shoulda been there. You coulda met Wheeljack." "Sorry I had to miss the fun, but Bumblebee and I had to do some practice sparring, Optmus's orders," Smokescreen replied. "And you could have done it in some undisclosed location! Look at this place, it's a WRECK!" Ratchet, the team's grumpy medic, fumed. "Take it easy, Ratchet, I said I'll clean it up didn't I?" Smokescreen answered. Ironhide the tough, red weapon specialist, Sergeant Kup (looks like Ironhide, but green), Hot Shot (Young blue Autobot with flame details, and some orange red in robot mode, who fights and gets into trouble a lot, and he looks like Bumblebee, but with a different head and goggles that are not active right now), Arcee the blue, feminent Autobot, along with Jack, her human companion, and Rafael "Raf" Jorge Gonzales Esquivel, Bumblebee's human friend, were on the other side of the base watching the argument unfold. "You still have a lot to learn, kid," Arcee said. "Much like someone else around here, eh?" Ironhide smirked to everyone. Hot Shot realized what he heard. "Shut up," he said clenching his fists, as they hear Ratchet activate the ground bridge. Optimus Prime, the Autobot leader, Swerve, the big, dark red, bulky Energon miner, and Bumblebee stepped through. "Optimus," Jack called to the Autobot leader. "How did the Energon scouting mission go?" "It was a trap set by Soundwave. Megatron had created a decoy Energon beacon that led us astray. We were ambushed by the Decepticons, but we fought our way out. Barely," Optimus explained. "I wish there was real Energon," Swerve complained. Bumblebee gave his usual beeps and blips. "Indeed, Bumblebee. We must proceed with great caution on our next scouting trip." "Do any of you require medical attention?" Ratchet asked. Bumblebee gave a few beeps, as sits on Ratchets medical bed. "Hmm, several torn joints. But nothing I can't fix," Ratchet said as he examines Bumblebee's right arm. "I'm just glad you and Bee came back safely," Raf said to Optimus. "As are we, Rafael. Megatron has grown more desperate in the search for the Iacon Relics." Just then, several alarms begin blazing over the comm system. "Ratchet, report!" Optimus called. "I'm on it," Ratchet said as he finishes his patching on Bumblebee's arm. Ratchet begins to survey the computer terminal. He then sees something strange. "Optimus, I'm picking up extremely strong energy fluxes. It's happening.... RIGHT ABOVE THE BASE!" "What?" Arcee asked with concern. "You mean, we're under attack? Did the cons find the base?" Jack asked. "No, it's not caused by weapons fire, or Energon discharges. But rather, the energy signature, almost matches those.... of a Space Bridge portal," Ratchet said, slightly bewildered. "A portal not from the Decepticons?" Kup questioned. "Now I'm seeing everything." "How is that possible?" Optimus asked. "Autobots, we must investigate. Head topside." "I'll go with," Miko said, as Bulkhead stops her. "Park it, young lady," Bulkhead said as he and the other Autobots, except Ratchet, who's still monitoring the terminal, enter the elevator that takes them to the top of the mountain. "Uuuhhhh," Miko growled. She then watches Bulkhead, and the others ride the elevator topside, to the surface. Youtube Video As Optimus and the Bots step out of the elevator, they see something strange appearing in the sky right above them. It looked like a space bridge portal, except, it was purple. "Woah..." Hot Shot said in awe. "That looks like a portal," Smokescreen said. "Thanks for stating the obvious, kid," Arcee mumbled. "The question is, why is it here, and where does it go?" "I do not know, Arcee. But if this is Megatron's doing, we must be prepared for anything." Optimus replied. Just then they hear what sounded like a flying vehicle head towards them. As soon as it came into better view, Bulkhead immediately recognized it. "It's the Jackhammer. Jackie's here!" Bulkhead said in a happy tone. Arcee simply groaned and facepalmed. "Wheeljack? Why is HE here?!" Ratchet's voice angrily said over Optimus' communicator. As the Jackhammer touched down. Wheeljack exits and heads towards the rest of the Autobots. "Sweet!" a young sounding female voice said from behind Bulkhead. "Oh no," Bulkhead muttered as he turns around. He sees Miko standing behind him, with a huge grin on her face. "Miko! I told you to wait down below ground," Bulkhead said. "No way am I missing this reunion," Miko beamed. "So, looks like the gang's all here," Wheeljack said as he walks up to Optimus. "Indeed Wheeljack, while the others may object to your presence, I for one, will always welcome one of our Autobot brothers," Prime replied. "What are you even doing here in the first place?" Arcee hissed. "Arcee!" Hot Shot scolded at her. "Picked up a strange anomaly while cruising around. Just happened to be in the neighborhood," Wheeljack replied. "And you must be the new kid. Name's Wheeljack. You must be Smokescreen." "Yes sir!" Smokescreen saluted. "I can't believe it, You're Wheeljack, I mean, THE Wheeljack, one of the greatest Wreckers during the war." "You know your history kid," Wheeljack responded. "So, what is that thing up there anyway?" "We do not know currently. But Ratchet is still analyzing it," Optimus answered. "So, old grumps downstairs is still mad at me huh?" Wheeljack asked. "You have no Idea," Miko replied. "I heard that!" Ratchet fumed on the comm link. "Optimus, I'm picking up a huge energy spike coming from that portal." Just as Ratchet said that, the portal began to seemingly destabilize. Then a force of suction began eminating from it. The first one to be sucked towards it was Arcee, as she flies through the air towards it. Bumblebee immediately grabs hold of her, but the pull from the vortex begins to grow stronger. "That thing is trying to pull us in!" Ironhide said. "Everyone, head underground NOW!" Optimus ordered. "Optimus, what's happening?" Ratchet asked over the comm. "Ratchet, the portal is destabilizing. It's beginning to draw us towards it." Optimus replied. "Optimus, you and the others need to get out of there, NOW!" Ratchet yelled. Bumblebee held onto Arcee as best as he could, until he too was pulled off the ground. Smokescreen and Bulkhead immediately went to their aid. But soon the pull was so strong, that even they were lifted. Optimus latched onto them, but soon he was airborn as well. Kup and Hot Shot came to pull him down, but went up. Ironhide and Swerve tried to pull on them, but they went in the air as well. Wheeljack immediately boarded the Jackhammer, and flew towards the rest of the Autobots. "Grab on!" he called, as Optimus and the others clamped their hands onto the Jackhammer's hull. However the pull had become too great. The Jackhammer was inching closer and closer to the portal. Wheeljack fired full thruster burn on his ship. But it was futile. The whole time Miko watched from the top of the base, hiding behind a large rock she clamped onto, preventing her from being pulled in as well. She watched in horror as the Jackhammer, even at full thruster burn, was eventually pulled into the portal, with all of the Autobots on it. She felt her stomach turn as the portal disappeared. They were gone. In the skies over Nevada, a large monstrosity of a ship was flying. It was the Nemesis, the Decepticon Warship, and Megatron's personal mobile base. "So it appears that Optimus escaped the trap we laid out for him. No matter, perhaps it was for the best. As I intend to crush Optimus Prime, with my own two hands," Megatron said to his communications officer, Soundwave. Just then, several alarms began to go off throughout the ship. "Report," Megatron ordered. "Lord Megatron," Knockout, the Con medic said, "We are picking up a strange energy flux." "Well, what of it?" Megatron asked. "Umm.. *ahem* right in front of the ship," Knockout replied nerviously. "WHAT?" Megatron fumed. as he turns on the viewscreen. What he sees, is the ship, headed towards a giant purple vortex. "ALL HANDS, FULL REVERSE!" Megatron ordered. "The navigation controls are not responding my lord," Dreadwing, the second in command of the Decepticons replied. "And the engines are beginning to burn out." Multiple Vehicons, and Insecticons scrambled to their stations in an attempt to assess the situation. "Whatever this is Lord Megatron, It's shorting out all of our systems. We can't break free of the vortex's pull," Knockout reported. "No! Find a way to get us out of this mess Knockout!" Megatron seethed. "It's too late, we're too close!" Thundercracker, one of Megatron's top soldiers next to Dreadwing and his identical purple and gray twin, Skywarp, replied. Megatron turns to see the ship coming close. "Brace yourselves!" Skywarp yelled. The Nemesis then enters the vortex, and dissappears. As the Jackhammer exits the vortex portal, it begins to lose control. "I'm losing altitude fast!" Wheeljack called out. The Jackhammer began to spin in the air. "Everyone hold on!" Optimus called to the others, still gripping onto the hull of the ship. "Wheeljack, is there anything you can do?" Arcee yelled. "Only to hope the landing won't frag us all," Wheeljack answered. "I'm too young to go offline!" Swerve yelled. "You and me both," Hot Shot replied. As the Jackhammer continued to careen out of control, Bumblebee loses his grip, and falls off the ship. "BEE!" Smokescreen called out in horror. "NO!" Hot Shot yelled at the same time. As Bumblebee fell, he braced himself for impact. Fairly soon. BOOM! He hits the ground hard. As Bumblebee comes to, he begins to sit up, and very groggly looks at his surrondings. For a moment he is too dazed to figure out how he got here, or even what happened. Then it all comes back to him. He and the rest of the Autobots were pulled through a vortex. He had fallen off the Jackhammer, and landed somewhere unfamiliar to him. But what Bumblebee sees next, was something he never expected in his life. Six multicolored equine lifeforms, looking at him. (It's my friends, the Mane 6) Bumblebee didn't know what to do, as he was very confused about the situation. Maybe he hit his head too hard on impact. He began to beep and blip to himself, when suddenly what happened next shocked him even more. The purple one, with both a horn on her head, and wings on her back spoke to him. It TALKED! "Umm, Welcome to Equestria?" Twilight said in an awkward smile. Chapter 3In the secluded area right outside of Ponyville, three miles from Fluttershy's cottage, a meeting of first contact had been made between the Ponies of Equestria, and an Autobot, from Cybertron. Inside the crater, where Bumblebee had crash landed, the six bearers of the Elements of Harmony are now gathered around the Autobot scout, who is now sitting cross legged, and looking at the ponies. "So, um, shouldn't we like, ask where he came from?" Rainbow Dash said to Twilight. "Well, I don't know where he came from, but we know EXACTLY how he got here," Rarity fumed. "Sweetie Belle, always causing trouble where ever she goes." Bumblebee, kept eyeing the six strange looking ponies, the whole time, trying to make sense of the situation. He never imagined equines could speak, at least never on Earth. He then realized, he may no longer BE on Earth! As the horses and ponies from that particular planet were not sapient, let alone capable of speech. "Um, so, who you are, and where do you hail from, good sir?" Twilight politely addressed the giant robotic visitor. "My Name is Princess Twilight Sparkle," she introduced her self, her wings fluttering a bit out of excitement, as she then points to each of her friends. "And these are my friends, Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy." Bumblebee could only think of one thing at this point.... "who in the Allspark NAMED them?!" Bumblebee responded in his usual electronic bleeps and blips. The Mane 6 were puzzled by his sounds. "Oh the poor thing, he's unable to speak," Rarity said. "Or maybe it's some foreign language," Twilight added. "Um, yeah, he CAN talk. He just said his name was Bumblebee," Pinkie Pie explained. Twilight seemed to get it. Then she realized! "Wait, Pinkie Pie, you can understand him?" Twilight asked. "How?" "Twi, it's Pinkie Pie. Never question it, or think about it too much. You'll go crazy. Trust me," Rainbow Dash said to the alicorn princess. "What kind of a weird name is Bumblebee anyway?" Rainbow Dash smirked. Bee gave a number of high pitched chirping noises. "Well, he just said, What kind of name is Rainbow Dash?" Fluttershy translated. "HEY! What's that supposed to mean?" Dash angrily yelled, then she realized something. "Fluttershy? You can understand him too?" "Oh yes," the timid little pegasus replied. "I don't know why but I can make out what he's saying. I guess my ability to talk to animals, and other creatures naturally helps out." "Well, I guess that makes sense," Twilight added. "Bumblebee is it? Well I think the name suits you very well my dear," Rarity said to the Autobot. "Especially with that black and yellow scheme. Simply marvelous. Your colors are quite lovely." Underneath his mouth plate, Bumblebee was smiling to the compliment the fashionista had given him. "And let's not forget those cool wings on your back. I bet you can fly really really FAST!" Pinkie Pie squealed. Bumblebee responded with more beeps. "Oh, I see," Fluttershy said. "What did he say?" Applejack asked. "Well, he said those aren't wings, and he can't fly. Those are actually, um, doors." The ponies were slightly dumbfouded by this. "Doors, to what, sugarcube?" Applejack asked. Bumblebee gave an electronic response. "He says he'll show us," Pinkie Pie translated. To the ponies' astonishment, Bumblebee's body began to shift and change, like a giant puzzle. Before they knew it, he had transformed into what looked like a strange carriage like vehicle. He then opens his driver side door to show the ponies his interior. "Oh I get it, DOORS! Funny Joke!" Pinkie Pie began to laugh. Wow, that was AWESOME!" Rainbow Dash beamed. "So ya turn into a carriage? But I don't see where anypony can pull ya," Applejack stated. Bumblebee felt slightly insulted by the comment. He responded with another round of electronic buzzes. "He said it's not a carriage, but a very mint muscle car. What ever that is," Fluttershy translated. "A car?" Twilight stated as she took a closer look. Her eyes then widened, and her wings extended. A large smile then appeared on her face. "It really IS a car! Oh my goodness, I haven't seen one of these since I was in the mirror universe. Flash Sentry's counterpart of that dimension owned one. How EXCITING!" the alicorn princess explained with enthusiasm. The rest of the ponies simply looked at her with puzzled expressions. "Umm, Egghead..... what's a car?" Rainbow Dash asked. "A car... Also known as an automobile. A self propelled motor vehicle powered by a fossil fuel engine used for long distance locomotion at high speeds. It's one of the many technological wonders from the alternate world such as television, airplanes, cellular phones, computers, and the internet." As Twilight finished her short lecture, the rest of the girls looked more confused than ever. "Uhh, I think ya lost us there, sugarcube," Applejack said. Bumblebee then revved engine loudly, showing the power of a motorized vehicle. This caused Fluttershy to jump behind Rarity, while Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie inched closer in wonder. Pinkie then laid her head on Bumblebee's hood, as it vibrated. "HEEEEEYYYY!!!! THIIIIIIIISSSS MAAAAAAKEESSSS MMMMMYYYYY VOOOOOIIIIIIICCCCEEE SOOOOOUUUNNNNDD SIIIIIIIIIIIILLLLLLLYYYYYYY!!!!!" "Pinkie, stop that," Twilight said while annoyed by her antics. Bumblebee then transforms back into robot mode. He couldn't help, but find the one called Pinkie Pie, funny as he began to make a high pitched sound. "Aww, he's laughing! I'm glad I made you happy," Pinkie beamed at him. "So, Bumblebee, where did you come from, and how is it you turn into a car? I have so many questions," Twilight asked. Bumblebee began to respond in his usual electronic noises for a good minute or two, then he seemingly finished. "Oh I see, very interesting," Fluttershy said. "Flutters? Translation?" Rainbow interjected. "He says he's from the planet Cybertron, and that their homeworld is no longer inhabitable because of a long war. Oh how terrible. But he did say that he and the other Autobots are now living on a planet called Earth," Fluttershy explained. "Earth? What kind of a name is that for a world? You'd might as well called it Dirt," Rainbow Dash said. "Stop being so rude Rainbow Dash! He's a guest on our world. I swear, sometimes you can be so childish." Rarity hissed. "So he's an alien. That's mighty interestin'," Applejack said. "Yeah, like something out of the comics I've seen Scootaloo read," Rainbow Dash added. She then turned her attention to Twilight. "Hey Twilight! When you went to that other world through the mirror, did the aliens there look like Bumblebee?" Rainbow asked. "No, I can't say that they do. I mean, his stature and shape looks similar to the inhabitants of that dimension, but they're not giants made of metal. He must be from another world beside the one through the mirror," Twilight explained with a smile on her face. "Fascinating! I didn't think there were other inhabited worlds besides that one." "Well on with his story," Fluttershy continued. "He says he's a soldier in the Autobot army." "Soldier? You're not here to invade us, are you?" Rainbow Dash said while in a boxing stance. Bumblebee gave a quick response with several beeps and blips. "No, he says Autobots don't invade. They defend and protect," Fluttershy translated. "Well, ain't everyday we get to meet a metal alien warrior from another world," Applejack said with astonishment. Bumblebee responded again. "He says he's no great warrior. But a scout, mostly," Pinkie translated for the others. Bumblebee then gave a long winded speech with his sounds, as Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie listened intently. "Oh my..... He says he's been separated from the rest of his squad," Fluttershy explained. "He fell off the ship he was on when they came to our world. He needs to find them." "Of course we'll help you, Bee. And then I'm gonna throw the biggest WELCOME TO PONYVILLE GIANT ALIEN ROBOT party for you and your friends!" Pinkie Pie added. "Well the question is, how do we find them?" Twilight asked the Autobot. Bumblebee looked at his right arm, then pressed something. His forearm turned into a computer screen, as Twilight and the others looked in awe. He then began to speak in his electronic voice again. "Oooohh, he says this is called a locator beacon, whatever that is, it'll help him find the other Autobots," Pinkie translated. Several red dots appeared on the viewscreen of his computer, as Bumblebee spoke again. "So those dots are your friends?" Fluttershy asked. Bumblebee simply nodded. "Ok then, girls. Let's go search for these other visitors. I'm sure they can't be hard to miss. Especially if they're giant robots like Bumblebee here," Twilight explained as she rallied the others. "That thing looks like a cool map," Rainbow Dash said as Bumblebee responded with his usual sounds. "That's because he said it is. And I think I'm kind of figuring it out. So this is where we are," Fluttershy said. "And that area where the other red dots are happens to be..... Oh, my...." "What is ever the matter, Fluttershy?" Rarity asked in concern. "That's...... The Everfree Forest!" Fluttershy shrieked. The girls looked at each other, and all of them gulped hard. Oh this probably can't be good. Chapter 4"What do you mean, they just disappeared?" Agent Fowler yelled while on Ratchet's viewscreen. "I mean, that a strange vortex portal has taken Optimus, and the others, to parts unknown," Ratchet replied. "So you're telling me, that some freak of a black hole, just randomly appeared over the base, and sucked Prime and the others away? JUST LIKE THAT?!!!" Fowler angrily screamed. "Yes, Agent Fowler, that is exactly the case," Ratchet said in a forboding tone. "That's it! I'm heading over there NOW. And you better not be blowing smoke up my backside. Fowler out!" The view screen switches off, as Agent Fowler hangs up. "So what happened out there?" Jack asked Miko, who was still shaken by the events that transpired. "I don't know, this thing appeared over them in the sky. They were all on Wheeljack's ship, when it got sucked through, it disappeared," Miko explained, with tears in her eyes. "Ratchet, do you have any idea where the portal could have taken them?" Raf asked the Autobot Medic. "I fear, that, I do not know," Ratchet said grimly. "That portal could have sent them anywhere in the galaxy, or even to another one far away." Raf, looked at Ratchet, with worry in his eyes. "Guys, we can't give up hope," Jack said to the others. "There has to be a way. Ratchet, can't you track them? I mean, you can right?" "I will try. Optimus...... Please, be alright." In the Ponyville Library, Spike and Sweetie Belle were bored, VERY bored. "It's not fair, I wanted to see the crashed meteor too," Spike said to the filly. "I'm also worried about Fluttershy. I hope she's ok." "Me too Spike," the unicorn filly replied. "I never get to go on an adventure with Rarity. Well, except for the gem hunt earlier, but still. She gets to have all these exciting moments happen." They were both interrupted by a knock on the door. "Are they back?" Spike wondered as he goes to answer. When he opens the door, it wasn't Twilight, but another familiar pony he knows from his early years. It's Shining Armor! "Shining Armor!" Spike called out. "Hi, Spike. It's great to see you again, little bro," Shining Armor replied. "Where's Twily? Cadence and I are both visiting Ponyville this week. We wanted to surprise her." "Oh, well, she's out. It's just me and Sweetie Belle here," Spike answered. "Hey there. I remember you from the wedding. Your Rarity's little sister, right? You were also one of the flower girls." "That's me!" Sweetie Belle squeaked. "Anyways, can you two tell me where Twily went?" "Sure," Spike responded. "She's over near the edge of Ponyville by Fluttershy's cottage. The others are with her. They're investigating some sort of meteor crash." "A meteor crash? Sounds exciting," Shining Armor said as he takes his leave. "Thanks, and I'll see you later little bro." "Good to see you again, Shiny," Spike waved as Shining Armor took his leave. As Bumblebee and the Mane 6 reach the edge of the Everfree Forest, he notices the ponies beginning to grow nervous. Bumblebee, in his electronic voice begins to ask if everything was ok. "Well, you see, Bumblebee," Fluttershy began to respond, "This is the Everfree Forest. It's a very dangerous, and scary place. All sorts of monsters and creatures live in there. The place is very wild." "Yeah, and super duper creepy. But it is the place where I found the mirror pool," Pinkie Pie added. "Let's not go there, sugarcube," Applejack interrupted, "I'd like not to remember that incident." Bumblebee checks his wristmounted viewscreen again, to see the Autobots signals are still showing the rest of Team Prime deep in the forest. "Well, no time like the present. Let's get going, girls. Bumblebee, please lead the way," Twilight said to the others, as they begin their trek into the forest. "Ahh, geez," Wheeljack mumbled as the rest of the Autobots stand around the downed Jackhammer. "Engines are gonna take some time for me to repair it. At least she'll still be flyable later." "In the meantime," Arcee added. "We need to find out where we are, and most importantly, find Bee." "Agreed," Optimus said. "We must assess our current predicament, and our location. And search for our missing comrade." "I'll see if I can locate him," Bulkhead said as he also turns on his locater beacon. "Scrap, I can't get a signal. How about you guys?" "Nope," Hot Shot said with his. "Nothing," Smokescreen said. "Don't look at me," Swerve answered. "Nadda," Ironhide replied. "Uh-uh," Kup said with his. "Not even a blip," Arcee answered. "I think that crash did a number on us. At least the communicators work, albeit, short range only." Optimus also turns on his locater, his seems to be functioning slightly. He notices his own position as well as the others around him, but at the same time, a faint blip off in the distance. It had to be Bumblebee. "I believe I have his coordinates," Optimus said. "Autobots, transform, and roll out." "You guys do that," Wheeljack said, as he continues to conduct his repairs on his ship. "Arcee, stay with Wheeljack, and assist him in repairing the ship. Also, provide him with cover if he comes under attack," Optimus said to the female Autobot. "You want me to babysit the cowboy?" Arcee objected. "I want you to work with him. Autobots should not be feuding or holding grudges against each other," Optimus explained. "Like him or not, he is an Autobot. I will not leave one by himself in unfamiliar territory. You will be his backup. That is an order." "Yes sir," Arcee said. "Yeah yeah, whatever," Wheeljack said as he continues to work on the Jackhammer. The rest of the Bots transform, and drive off. As they continue to travel in vehicular form, they notice something large flying overhead through the clearing of the trees. All of the bots quickly transform. "Cons?" Smokescreen asked as he turns his hands into blasters. Upon closer look, the gigantic flying object wasn't the Decepticon warship, but a giant reptilian creature, with spines on it's back, a large wingspan, and a very long tail. The Autobots couldn't believe their optics. "Whoa!" Bulkhead yelled to the group. "Was that a Predacon?" "Can't be," Smokescreen answered "They're supposed to be extinct!" "I do not believe so, as the creature looked far too organic," Optimus stated as Smokescreen turns his arms to normal. "Suffice to say, It appears that we are currently no longer on Earth. Such a being, cannot possibly be indigenous to the Human world. The portal must have brought us to another planet." "This is gonna be a problem, then. Still, we have to find Bee," Bulkhead added. "Agreed," Optimus replied. As Optimus said this, suddenly the computer screen on his wrist shorts out. Seeing that the locater is now useless, he transforms his arm back to it's normal state. "It appears we must find Bumblebee the old fashioned way." Optimus said, "Bulkhead, take Smokescreen with you and head north." "Understood, Optimus." Bulkhead replied. "I won't let you down." Smokescreen saluted. "Kup, you, Hot Shot, Ironhide, and Swerve will search in another direction," Optimus said. "Yes, Optimus," Kup answered as Ironhide, Hot Shot, and Swerve nodded. "Try to stay in communication range. Our radio is currently short range only," Optimus ordered. "We will cover more ground this way. Move out." As Bumblebee continues to lead the ponies towards the other Autobots, his locater suddenly shorts out. "What happened?" Twilight asked. Bumblebee responds with his beeps. "His locater thingamajig just busted," Pinkie Pie said to the others. "He said it took some damage in the crash." "Great, so how are we gonna find the other aliens now?" Rainbow Dash complained. "Well, I guess we head in the general direction of where the dots were before his equipment failed," Twilight explained. "Ooh, I'll find them!" Pinkie Pie shouted in excitement as she bolts off. "Pinkie Pie, no! Come back here! We need to stay together!" Twilight shouted. "I'll get her!" Applejack said as she takes off after her. AJ, not you too!" Twilight groaned. Before they knew it, both Earth ponies had disappeared into the woods. "I'll fly up and find them," Rainbow Dash said as she takes off into the sky. She suddenly felt a tug on her tail. "Not without me, you're not! I'm not letting you out in these horrid woods all by yourself," Rarity said, using her magic to grab Dash's tail. "Fine, climb on!" Rainbow Dash said, as Rarity climbed onto her back. She then takes off to the air and flies off. "Great, now those two are gone." Twilight grumbled. "Well I guess it's just us, right Fluttershy and Bumblebee?" Bumblebee then begins to feel a sharp pain, he clutches his side, and falls over. "Oh no, what's wrong?" Fluttershy asked in concern. Bumblebee responds in his usual electronic language. "I see, you're injured from that fall," Fluttershy said. She then turns to Twilight. "I don't think he can go on too long. He needs to rest and recover." "Alright, Fluttershy. Go ahead and take him back to your cottage. And make sure nopony else sees him. I don't want a panic to start." "Got it Twilight," Fluttershy responded. "Come on now Bumblebee, you need to recuperate." Bumblebee gives a few beeps in objection. "Please you need to stop before you hurt yourself even more." Bumblebee gives another cluster of beeps and blips. "Don't worry, the girls know the forest pretty well. They'll find your friends. Trust me." Bee shakes his head slightly, but then gives in. So he starts to get up. "There, it won't be so bad. I promise," Fluttershy said to him, as they begin to backtrack to her home. "Are you sure you'll be ok by yourself Twilight? I really don't like leaving you here on your own, especially in the scary Everfree Forest," Fluttershy asked with concern. "It's ok Fluttershy. I make journeys through here pretty often whenever I go to visit Zecora. I'll be fine," Twilight answered. This slightly eased the pegasus' fear, but she still couldn't help but worry. The pair then began to make their way back to Fluttershy's house. As Rainbow Dash flies through the air, Rarity was holding on for dear life. "Slow Down, Rainbow Dash! I'm slipping! WWWAAAAAHHHH!!!!" "Heh, too fast for ya Rares?" Rainbow joked. "This isn't funny. Somepony could get hurt. And these g-forces are ruining my mane." "Fine," Rainbow Dash dejectedly said, as she slows down a bit. "There, much better. You see? You CAN be a civilized pony. Doesn't it feel good?" Rarity asked. "More like boring," Dash muttered. As they fly through the air, they see a number of downed trees, it looked like something had plowed through the ground. "Hey, what's that?" Rainbow Dash asked as she flies closer to it. "Dash, Darling, I don't think it to be wise.... AAAAAHHHHH!!!" Rainbow Dash zips towards what appears to be a crash site. As they get closer, they see something that surprised them. A large metal object, and two more robots around it. One looked like it was doing some kind of work on the metal thing, while the other was just pacing back and forth. "Whoa, I think we found them," Rainbow Dash said as she lands behind a large rock to hide as Rarity dismounts her. "Indeed," Rarity replied. "So now what do we do?" "I don't know," Rainbow answered her. "Well, this forest air is doing quite the number on my sinuses," Rarity said, as she feels a sneeze coming on. "Oh no, Rarity, don't...." "Ah..." "Rarity...." "Ah..." "NO!" "CHOOO!!!" As Arcee continued to watch Wheeljack work on the Jackhammer, she began to groan to herself. "I can't believe Optimus just put me on curbside duty," she complained. "Especially being stuck with an insubordinate." "You know, I can hear you as clear as day," Wheeljack replied. "I wasn't talking to you!" Arcee snapped. "Well, I'm the only other bot here. Unless you like talking to yourself," Wheeljack teased as he then resumes to repairing the Jackhammer. Arcee sighed and rolled her eyes. Wheeljack then hears something behind him. A sneeze. "What was that?" he said as he draws one of his swords out. "Don't know. I'm checking it out," Arcee said As she moves forward towards the rock, with her blaster hands drawn, she sees movement behind it. "I know you're there, come out now!" she ordered. Knowing they've been caught, Rainbow Dash and Rarity slowly emerge from behind the rock. "Umm, hi there," Rainbow Dash greets the female Bot. Arcee, was at a loss. "What the? What, are you?" "Uhh, my name's Rainbow Dash, I'm a pegasus pony. And this is my friend, Rarity, she's a unicorn." "A pleasure to meet you," Rarity said in elegance. "I see. Yeah, Wheeljack, I don't think we're on Earth anymore," Arcee said as she turns her blasters back into her hands. Wheeljack walks up with his sword drawn. "Easy there cowboy, I don't think they're hostile," Arcee said as Wheeljack puts way his sword. "So you guys can talk normally. For a sec there, I thought you'd also be speaking in bleeps and blips like Bumblebee," Rainbow said. "Bumblebee? YOU KNOW WHERE HE IS?" Arcee said in shock. "Yes, he's with our friends," Rarity answered. "Is he alright?" Wheeljack asked. "He's in good hooves. My friends are the most trustworthy ponies in all of Equestria," Rainbow said to the bots. "Thank Primus," Arcee said with relief. "So Equestria, is this the world we're on?" "You could say that," Rainbow Dash answered. "Well, my name's Arcee, and this big jerk here, is Wheeljack." "Thanks, Cee," Wheeljack muttered. "Cool, well, if you follow us, we should take you straight to your friend," Rainbow directed as they start heading down. After a bit of a walk, Fluttershy and Bumblebee finally made it back to the cottage. Bumblebee sits down and begins to rest, as he sees Fluttershy playing with a bunch of animals. He addresses her with his electronic tongue. "Oh, well, I'm a caretaker of these animals. They're my very good friends," Fluttershy answered. Bumblebee nodded, and bleeped again in conversation. "How, well, I'm not sure why I can understand what you're saying, but I've always had this ability to communicate with animals. Maybe it has something to do with it." Bumblebee stares at Fluttershy in wonder. Was she like Raf? He wondered. Maybe they share some sort of connection. Bumblebee gently pets her. This calms her down. For a giant metal robot, he was quite gentle towards her. One of the bunnies around Fluttershy then hops up to the Autobot. "Oh, I think she likes you. Go ahead, pick her up," she tells him. Bumblebee gently scoops the small animal into his hand. "That's Snowflake. She's a bunny that was hurt. But now she's all better and ready to go home." As they continue to converse, they hear someone approaching. "Bumblebee, quick, hide!" Bee sets the bunny down, transforms into vehicle mode, and hides behind Fluttershy's house. As the figure approaches, it's revealed to be Shining Armor. "Hello, Fluttershy, I'm visiting Ponyville this week with Cadence. Is Twily here? I was told she's at your place investigating some meteor crash." "Oh, good afternoon, Shining Armor," Fluttershy responded. "It's good to see you again." "It's great to see you too," Shining Armor said. "So where's Twily and the others?" "Oh, in the Everfree Forest, searching for the, umm, meteor crash, yes, that's it," Fluttershy nevously replied. "What? They're in that Celestia forsaken forest?" Shining Armor gasped. "I need to find them. NOW! Hang on Twily, you're BBBFF is on his way!" "WAIT!!!" Fluttershy called out, but Shining Armor had already galloped towards the forest. "Oh no, I didn't want him to find out about the aliens just yet. Bumblebee what am I going to do?" Bumblebee drives back from behind the cottage, and transforms back into robot mode. He simply picks up Fluttershy, and holds her, as they both watch the Unicorn head into the forest. Chapter 5"So," Arcee said as she and Wheeljack walked behind Rainbow Dash and Rarity as they moved through the forest. "This world, Equestria, is it? Is populated by sentient horses?" "Actually, we're ponies. Horses are bigger," Rainbow Dash answered. Wheeljack was puzzled. "I didn't think ponies were able to talk," he said. "Of course we can talk, we're not mindless animals," Rarity snapped. "So where'd you guys come from?" Rainbow asked. "Some portal sucked us into this world," Arcee told her. "A weird accident or something." "Well, I certainly have an idea," Rarity added. "Sweetie Belle got a hold of some strange blue crystal. It apparently intensifies unicorn magic." "Magic?" Wheeljack muttered. "Please, like I'm gonna believe some mystical voodoo brought us here." "Well, you certainly are rude," Rarity snapped at the Autobot. "I'm a Wrecker, it comes with the job," Wheeljack replied as Rarity rolls her eyes. "Come on, Wheeljack," Arcee said to him. "It's not unheard of. I mean, the power of the Primes consists of SOME mysticism." "Blah blah, not interested. Just need to get back to Earth, so we can start crushing some more Cons," Wheeljack responded. "Such a ruffian!" Rarity muttered. "Rainbow Dash right? So where do we go from here?" Arcee asked. "Right up this way, Arcee," Rainbow Dash answered. "I'm have a good hunch they'll be meeting back at Fluttershy's home." "Hmm, might be better if we traveled on wheels," And with that statement, Arcee transformed into her motorcycle form. "So you can turn into those self propelled vehicles too. And a bike! Awesome!" Rainbow remarked. "You look like a speedster. Wanna race?" "Another time, kid. Just lead the way. Need a lift?" "Nah, I got my wings. I'll fly ahead. Rarity, I think will need one." Wheeljack also transformed into his car form. "Wheeljack, give her a ride," Arcee commanded. "Yeah yeah, climb in toots," Wheeljack said to the unicorn as he opened his door. "Toots? WHY I NEVER!!" Rarity fumed. "Of all the impolite...." "Rarity, just get inside, or we're leaving you here," Rainbow Dash yelled. "Uhh, if you insist," she responded as she climbed into Wheeljack's open door. He then closes it behind her. "You simply MUST do something about these seats. The colors are atrocious. And the decor can certainly see some improvement," she started nitpicking at Wheeljack's interior. "This... is gonna be a LOOOONG trip," Wheeljack said to himself. "Hey Bulkhead, anything yet?" Smokescreen asked the big green bot. "Not a single thing. I don't know if we'll ever find him this way," Bulkhead replied to the rookie. "Well, we can't give up. I just wanna prove to Optimus I'm a capable Autobot." "Kid, you'll be fine. Optimus isn't judgemental about anyone under his command. As long as you do your part, and pull your weight. You'll be ok," Bulkhead reassured him. "I just hope Bumblebee is alright," Smokescreen said as he looked towards the sky. Then suddenly.... "HI THERE!" A high pitched voice called out. The two Autobots instantly froze in place, then readied their blaster arms. "Who's there?!" Smokescreen demanded. "Show yourself!" "I'm over here!" the voice said. Smokescreen and Bulkhead turned towards the direction. "I don't get it," Bulkhead stated. "I don't see anything." "Look down!" the voice said again. Both bots lower their heads downward and see, A little equine, with pink fur, a pink poofy mane, big blue eyes, and a grin on it's face. It was hopping in place happily. (Iiiit's Pinkie Pie) The two Autobots deactivated their weapons and looked down in confusion. "BAH WEEP GRANAH WEEP NINI BONG!" the pink equine said in a high pitched tone as she waved her hoof at the Bots. "Umm... What??" Bulkhead said in confusion as he scratched his head. "But, I thought everypony knew the universal greeting...." the pink little creature said in a slightly disappointed tone. "Whoa, did that horse just talk?" Smokescreen asked. "I didn't know horses could talk!" "They can't kid, at least not on Earth. This proves what Optimus said earlier. We're definately NOT on Earth anymore," Bulkhead said to the younger bot. "Of course I can talk. It would be silly if I couldn't! And I'm not a horse, I'm a Pony!" "Uuhh, yeah..." Bulkhead said while scratching his head in confusion. "Um, so if we're not on Earth anymore, where are we?" Smokescreen asked. "WELCOME TO EQUESTRIA!" the pink pony beamed. "I'm gonna throw you guys the biggest welcome party it'll make it into the history books! I can't wait!" The little pony then suddenly bursts into song..... Youtube Video Both bots look at her with puzzled expressions. "What, just happened?" Bulkhead asked, confused of where the music seemed to appear from nowhere, as Smokescreen simply shrugged, but with a smile on his face. The rookie was genuinely amused by the antics. "Well now that I sang my welcome song, the next step is to make friends. I'm Pinkie Pie, who are you?" Pinkie asked the visitors. "At least the locals are friendly," Smokescreen said to the wrecker. "Name's Smokescreen." "Hi, Smokescreen! You guys are my new friends, I LOVE making new friends! So why are you aliens here, are here to be our friends? Or are you here to invade us? Or eat us? Or stick a probe up our...." "PINKIE PIE, THERE YOU ARE!" another voice yelled from behind the woods. As Pinkie and the Bots look to see the source of the voice, they see another pony galloping towards them. This one was orange, with a blonde mane. She was also wearing a cowboy hat, and her voice had a southern accent in it. (It's Applejack) "Ooh ooohh, APPLEJACK! I found them, I FOUND THEM! The cool giant alien robots!" Smokescreen couldn't help but begin to laugh. Pinkie Pie was just very amusing. "NAILED IT!" Pinkie shouted. "I made another one smile today!" "Another one?" Smokescreen asked. "Who are you talking about?" "Bumblebee!" Pinkie answered. "You guys must be his friends. He's our friend, and if you're his friend, then your my friend too." "BUMBLEBEE?!!" both Bulkhead and Smokescreen said in unison. "Is he alright? Where is he?" Bulkhead asked. "He's A-OK! A little battered up from the fall he took, but otherwise just fine!" Relieved, the two Bots high five each other. "Thank the Allspark. And thank you for taking care of him," Bulkhead said to the pink pony. "Aww, think nothing of it," she smiled back at them. "Well, I'll be a polecat on a farm range!" Applejack said as she walked up to the bots. "So ya did find em', Pinkie. These boys sure are big, especially the green one." "Aren't they cool looking?" Pinkie Pie beamed, who's already now riding on Smokescreen's shoulder. Applejack walks up to Bulkhead. "You look like you can give Big Macintosh a run for is bits!" she greeted the bot. "Umm, thanks.... I think?" he responded. "Well shoot, where are my manners. I'm Applejack, What's yer name stranger?" "Bulkhead." "Well, it's mighty fine to meet ya, Bulkhead." "YAY! Smokescreen and Bulkhead! Our newest friends!" Pinkie Pie shouted, as Smokescreen continued to laugh at her antics. "I like you already, Pinkie Pie!" Smokescreen said to the pony, which made her smile even more. "So, you think you can take us to Bumblebee? I need to contact Optimus about this, and Let both Arcee and Jackie know too," Bulkhead said. "Sure! It's right this way, partner!" Applejack pointed off in a direction. "Lead the way," Smokescreen said, as Pinkie hopped on his shoulder, happy as ever that she made friends with a giant alien robot. Then they start walking down. "Optimus, come in. Optimus, do you read?" Bulkhead called into his communicator, but there was static. "Scrap, he must be out of range." "Let me try the others," Smokescreen said. He then uses his communicator to radio Arcee and Wheeljack. "Arcee, Wheeljack, do any of you guys read?" Arcee comes to an immediate stop. "Rainbow Dash, hold up, I'm getting a signal. Someone's on the commlink!" she said as she transforms back into robot mode. "Huh? What's going on?" Rainbow Dash asked. "This is Arcee, come in." "Hey Arcee, it's Smokescreen. We just ran into some locals of this world. And after meeting them, chances are good, we're not on Earth anymore. You're probably not gonna believe me when I describe them to you." "Try me, kid." "Well, they're talking ponies. Crazy, right?" "Not really, Wheeljack and I came into contact with some ourselves." "Really? Well, at least Bulk and I aren't going crazy. I dunno how we're gonna tell Hot Shot, Ironhide, Swerve and Kup. Anyways, they said they know about Bumblebee. They found him, and apparently he's safe," Smokescreen said over the commlink. "The ones we met said the same thing. The ponies you met probably know the ones we ran into," Arcee answered. "So we're all on the same page? That's great to hear," Smokescreen said. Rainbow Dash flies up to Arcee's wrist. "So that thing's like a radio? That's pretty cool," she said. "It's our communicator. We use it to contact each other when we're separated." "We tried to radio Optimus, but I think he's out of range. You have any luck?" Smokescreen asked. "I'll give it a shot," Arcee answered. She then opens a new channel. "Arcee to Optimus, do you read? Optimus come in." Also static. "Scrap," Arcee muttered. "No luck either." "Don't worry we'll meet up with him eventually. The good news is, Bumblebee's ok," Smokescreen said. "I'm glad, too," Arcee answered. Then they hear a high pitched sounding female voice on the other side. "OOH, are calling your mothership? Can I see it? How big is it?" "Huh? That sounded like... Hey Arcee, can I speak into your com-thing real quick?" Rainbow Dash asked Before Arcee could answer, Rainbow had already landed on her wrist where her comlink is. "Pinkie Pie, is that you? It's me, Rainbow Dash!" "OOOHHHH, DASHIE! So you found some cool robot friends, too!" "Yeah, Rarity and I had a run in. We're taking them to see Bumblebee now. I have a good bet Fluttershy probably took him back to the cottage. She's terrified of this forest after all." "Okie Dokie Loki!" Pinkie responded, "Then we'll meet you there. By the way who's with you?" "Well besides Arcee, this cool bot who happens to be a girl-bot, and another guy called Wheeljack, Rarity's with me." "And I'm with Applejack. The guy I'm riding on is Smokescreen, and Applejack is walking next to this big guy named Bulkhead." "Wait, so Twilight's not with you?" Rainbow asked. "I thought she was with you, Dashie!" "You mean she got seperated?! Oh no, this is bad. She's all alone in the Everfree Forest. WE GOTTA FIND HER!" Rainbow yelled. "Oh no, she must be scared and all alone. Don't worry, with these guys with us, no monsters from the Everfree Forest should bother us." "Um, girls," Rarity said as she hangs her head out of Wheeljack's window, "You do know Twilight can handle herself, right? I mean, she IS Princess Celestia's prized student who excels in magic, a newly coronated princess herself, AND not to mention she traveled to another parallel dimension on her own." "Still, I think we should find her first," Rainbow Dash said. "We'll help you, kid," Arcee said. "You went through the trouble of helping Bee. We'll return the favor. We owe you." Wheeljack simply grunted, while Rarity scoffed at him. "Thanks a bunch. You're the coolest alien I know. Well, you're the only alien I know, but still!" Rainbow said. "What does she look like?" Arcee asked. "Don't worry, Applejack, we'll find your lost friend. It's the least we can do after you girls helped out Bee," Bulkhead said to the cowmare. "I do truly appreciate that. That's very neighborly of ya," she tipped her hat at Bulkhead. "So where do we start?" Smokescreen asked. "Uuummmm, THAT WAY!" Pinkie randomly pointed. Twilight had trekked through the forest by herself for some time now, still searching for any signs of the supposed giant alien robots lost in the woods. Normally, she wouldn't have any problems making trips like these as she tends to visit Zecora fairly regularly. But for some reason, she felt a certain uneasiness. As she moved deeper and deeper into the heart of the forest. She was absolutely certain that Bumblebee's readings were this direction. Little did she know, as she moved through the woods, she was being watched, and followed by a sinister presence in the brush, stalking her. Twilight couldn't shake the feeling, she knew something was wrong, but she couldn't put her hoof on it. She then heard what sounded like a rustling sound coming from behind her. Slowly she turned around, and notices, many eyes from the woods looking at her. These eyes were pale blue, and pupiless. "Um, hello?" she nevously addressed them. Then from the bush, many dark figures sprung out and quickly surronded her. "CHANGELINGS!" Twilight shrieked as she backed away. "Right you are, my little pony. And look at you, a Princess now...." A voice said from behind the brush. A pair of menacing green eyes stared at her, then another figure came into view. Someone who everypony and I thought was destroyed. It's Queen Chrysalis! "Oh no... NO!" Twilight muttered as she walked backwards. "Queen Chrysalis!? But Vincent destroyed you, Nightmare Moon, and King Sombra!" "Yes, he did." the queen answered, "But you see, he may have destroyed me, and the changelings in Ponyville, Canterlot, and the Crystal Empire. But, some were back at the castle, and they gathered the leftover magic from my remains, took me back to the castle to summon me, and now, I am REBORN!" Twilight was shocked to hear this. "I'm warning you. I'm a lot stronger since we last faced off. I've learned quite a few new spells," Twilight threatened, stretching her wings out. "You think you're stronger than me just because you have wings now? By all means then, impress me, princess," Chrysalis taunted. As the changelings converge on her, Twilight's horn began to glow, then a huge wave she emitted sent multiple changelings flying off in different directions. "Impressive, but not good enough," Chrysalis said, as she ordered another wave to attack. Twilight fired a several beams from her horn, the changelings she hit, suddenly turned into winged oranges. "Ha! How do you like that?" Twilight said in triumph. The queen merely cackled. "That's your best shot? What an utterly ridiculous and useless spell. My children, change back." With a number of green flashes, the transformed oranges immediately turned back into changelings. "What? But how?" "We can already change at will. It has no effect on us," Chrysalis explained. "Now, capture her! She will make an excellent randsom to Princess Celestia." Right as the changelings were almost on top of her, Twilight Sparkle teported in a bright flash, and she was gone. Twilight reappeared in another part of the forest and began to run back towards the direction of Ponyville, when suddenly, another group of green flashes appeared right before her. Queen Chrysalis and a number of her changeling swarm were right in front of her again. "Teleportation, a simple spell, that even a hatchling would know," Chrysalis said. Twilight Sparkle began to run, as the changeling gave chase. "I'm starting to wish I took those flying lessons from Rainbow Dash right about now!" Twilight shouted as she galloped. "You can run, but you can't hide, I'll get you my pretty!" Shining Armor had apparently gotten himself lost while searching for his little sister. "Great, I'm such an idiot," he muttered to himself. "I bet if I actually did find Twily she'd be laughing her flank off at me. Cadence, too." He shuddered at the thought and continued to walk through the woods. "Still, I can't let my sis venture in these woods by herself." Suddenly he heard what sounded like a scream nearby. The voice sounded like that of Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor knew that voice anywhere. "Oh no! TWILY! She's in trouble! Hang on, I'm coming!" he yelled as he headed in the direction of the sound. As Optimus Prime continued his search through the forest for his lost teammate, he sees a small object fly up to him. It looked like a small blue orb with two green eyes and a large mouth with insect wings. A parasprite? Optimus immediately drew his blaster hand at it. "Scraplets?" The parasprite merely eyed the Autobot leader with curiosity, then flew off after losing interest. Optimus changed his hand back to normal. "No, just an indigenous creature of this world," he said with relief. He then resumed his walk, when he hears what sounded like a scream and a cry for help. Optimus immediately looked around to see the source. "Someone is in trouble," he said to himself. "I must provide assistance." Even though he is on an alien world, Optimus Prime is not about to forsake someone who needed his help. He immediately transforms into his big rig form, and sped off into the direction of where the disturbance came from. "Maximum Overdrive!" Kup, Ironhide, Hot Shot, and Swerve were wandering elsewhere in the forest. They were clueless on where they were going. Then they stopped as they also heard a scream and cry for help. "What was that?" Swerve said looking around. "Sounds like trouble!" Hot Shot said, ready for trouble. "C'mon, let's go find Optimus, see if he knows," Ironhide stated. So the four Autobots turned back and ran to find Optimus. "Now then, dear Twilight Sparkle, are you ready to surrender?" Chrysalis taunted as Twilight was now cornered and completely surrounded. Twilight was at a loss. She didn't know what to do. "No, go away, leave me alone!" She shouted, as she let out another burst of magic from her horn. The changelings dodged out of the way. "Take her, now!" the queen ordered. But just as the changelings were about to converge on her, another beam of light shot out from behind them, and knocked out several changelings right in front of Twilight. Chrysalis, and Twilight turned to see the source. It was none other than Shining Armor. "BBBFF! Am I glad to see you!" Twilight beamed at her brother. "So, the hero returns," Queen Chrysalis said with amusement. "You!" Shining Armor hissed. "I thought we took care of you last year!" "Hardly. Have you come to feed me with more of your love, oh Prince of the Crystal Empire?" She taunted. Shining Armor immediately teleported himself next to his sister, and stood in front of her, taking a defensive stance. "Leave her be! If it's me you want, I'll take you on instead!" Shining Armor valiantly said. "I can feel your love for your sister. It invigorates my strength and nourishes me." "Twily, when I give the signal, make a break for it. I'll hold them off." "WHAT?! I can't just leave you here with this witch," Twilight protested. "We don't have a choice. Just be ready to run," he explained. "NO! I'm not leaving you. We stand together," she shot back at him. Just as Queen Chrysalis ordered her changelings to take them. Twilight erected a large force field around herself and her brother. The changelings slammed and rammed it repeatedly. "This won't hold them for long," Twilight said as she struggled to hold the field. "There has to be something we can do. Think, Shiny, think," he said to himself. The situation looked rather hopeless. The forcefield was beginning to crack. Shining Armor reinforced it with his own spell, but it would also eventually fail do to the physical onslaught the changelings were doing to it. Eventually, both siblings faltered from exhaustion, and Queen Chrysalis and her changelings inched forward. "Now you're both MINE!" she cackled. But from the distance, something caught all of their attention. A loud honking noise could be heard, and a large red object on wheels was barreling towards their direction. The object then screeched to a halt between the changelings and the pony siblings. To the astonishment of everyone present, it began to shift it's pieces around like a puzzle, changing it's form. Not long after, it had transformed into a giant bi-pedal metal humanoid figure. Here's OPTIMUS PRIME! The giant looked at the ponies, the one that obviously is female had a desperate look in her eyes. The look of someone who was pleading for help. The other creature, the insect like one, had the green eyes of greed, powerlust, and bloodlust. Then the little purple equine said something. "Help us, PLEASE!" Optimus was slightly surprised. He had never encountered sentient equines before, nor had he seen any with wings and horns. They must be the dominant species of this world. "I said capture them now! Do not be distracted by this metal giant," Chrysalis ordered her changelings. "Who ever you are, cease your attack! I will not allow you to harm the innocent," Optimus said in his stern tone. "Leave these beings in peace, or there will be..... Retaliation." Optimus activates his faceplate as it covers his mouth. "Is that so? Well then, We'll just have to destroy you then. For I am Queen Chrysalis, the ruler of the changelings, and no one defies me. Go fourth my changelings. Turn him into scrap metal." The changelings swooped forward, as Optimus readied himself. BAM! POW! With a mighty swing of his fists, many changelings were sent crashing to the ground. Both Twilight and Shining Armor couldn't believe what they were seeing. This giant metal creature came out of nowhere, and now it's protecting them from the changelings. Twilight immediately realized this must be one of Bumblebee's friends. Shining Armor, however, was still in the dark of that whole situation. He has no idea what's going on. As more changelings begin to swarm around Optimus, the Autobot leader then spreads his arms apart, and in one swift motion, slams his hands together in a massive hard clap. The ensuing shockwave sends the changelings flying out of control in mulitple directions as they crash into the ground and the trees. "So you defeated my swarm. Very impressive. But now you face the queen!" Chrysalis stated. She then envelops herself in a green light. Then in the wake, she had turned herself into a giant black praying mantis roughly the same size as the Autobot leader. She still had her crooked changeling horn on her head. Optimus sees this, and turns both his hands into his blades. "Now fall!" the queen yelled as she charged towards the Prime. She lashes with her pincers at the Autobot, as Optimus parries with his blade, and returns the attack. Optimus Prime swings his blade as Chrysalis catches it, only for him to do a spin, and roundhouse kick her in the chest. Chrysalis steps back, and swings another pincer at him, as Optimus clashes blades with it. Twilight and Shining Armor were at a loss of words. This giant stranger that saved them is clearly a formidable warrior. Seeing them battle was almost like an elegant dance, yet this was a fight for their lives. Optimus was all over the place, Chrysalis was barely able to touch him, as he countered all of her physical attacks. Then Chrysalis fires an energy blast from her horn at Optimus, who didn't have time to react. Right when the blast was about to hit him. A purple force bubble blocked the shot. Optimus looked down to see the purple little equine was using her horn to protect him. He nodded to her in approval, as he began to advance towards Chrysalis again. "Who are you? Why do you fight me?" the queen demanded. "My name, is Optimus Prime! And I will protect the innocent when ever they are in need of aid," he replied. Hearing this, Twilight gained an admiration for this robot. Suddenly, several blasts of energy struck Optimus in his back, as he fell down. A number of Changelings had recovered and were firing magical bolts at him. "So, then, Optimus Prime, now you're finished," Chrysalis said as she was about to bring her pincer down on his head. "No!" Twilight shouted. But Chrysalis was interrupted by several blasts of energy that hit her side. She turned around to see, several other metal giants now running towards them, firing shots of blasts from their arms, except the bigger, red, bulky one, who fired EXPLOSIVE lasers from a cannon on his left shoulder. Behind them several ponies were also running towards the area. Twilight immediately recognized them as Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash. As the Autobots got closer, Arcee immediately transformed into her vehicle mode, and charged in front of the others. Queen Chrysalis immediately changed back into her original form, to make herself a smaller target. "My children, retreat. You haven't heard the last of me Princess Twilight, or you Optimus Prime! I will have my revenge!" With that statement, Chrysalis immediately flew off with the rest of the swarm following her. After seeing the attackers fly off, The Autobots and ponies quickly run up to Optimus. "Optimus, are you alright?" Arcee asked. "I will survive, Arcee," he replied. He then retracts his faceplate, as his mouth is once again visible. The bots gave a sigh of relief as Optimus stands back up, seemingly unscathed. "I see each of you has made contact with the locals," Optimus said as he looks at the ponies, who in turn were staring at Optimus in awe. He then turns his attention towards Twilight and Shining Armor. "Are you hurt? Do either of you require medical attention?" he asked the pair. "We're quite fine sir. And thank you, you saved our lives. We're in your debt," Twilight happily said to the Prime. "My name is Princess Twilight Sparkle, and this is my brother, Shining Armor. The others, they're my friends." "Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie!" "The one and only Rainbow Dash." "Rarity, it's a pleasure." "Name's Applejack." "And these are my Autobot companions," Optimus said as he point to the others. "Call me Arcee." "[salutes] Sergeant Kup." "I'm Bulkhead." "Weapon Specialist: Ironhide." "Smokescreen, at your service." "Swerve here." "Wheeljack." "Hot Shot. Locked and loaded!" "And I, am Optimus Prime." "I still can't believe animals like them can talk," Hot Shot said as Ironhide shushed him. The Autobot leader, then crouches down in front of the young alicorn. "So you are a princess.... Are you the leader of this world?" Optimus asked. "What? No, of course not. I'm still learning about my new status. Princess Celestia is the true ruler of our world," Twilight replied. Shining Armor then questions her about what's going on. "Twily, what are you doing here in the forest in the first place? Spike told me you were investigating some sort of meteor crash. But from what I can see, these guys aren't meteors." "You're right BBBFF." "BBBFF?" Arcee questioned. "Big Brother Best Friend Forever." "Huh..." "Who says that?" Swerve said in confusion. "Quiet!" Kup quietly scolded at him. "You see, Bro, What fell out of the sky, wasn't a meteor, but an alien robot. His name is Bumblebee, and these other Autobots, I think that's what they're called, are his friends. They came to this world by accident. They just want to find their friend, and we were simply helping them." Shining Armor was at a loss of words. Aliens? He couldn't process that through is mind, yet here they are, standing in front of him. At least they're friendly. "I see," he replied. "Bumblebee? You know of his whereabouts?" Optmus asked. "Yes sir, he's with our friend Fluttershy, she's been taking care of him, and tending his wounds. He'll be just fine," Twilight answered him. "It is clear you had Bumblebee's best intentions at heart. Thank you, Princess Twilight Sparkle. It appears I too, owe you a debt of honor." Hearing this, Twilight blushed. It wasn't every day she would receive a compliment from an alien lifeform, especially one with such honor and integrity. She began to respect Optimus even more. "Please, just call me Twilight," she addressed the Autobot Leader. "Sir, I thank you for saving my life, and my sister's. I was once Captain of the Royal guard in Celestia's army. But now I'm the Prince of the Crystal Empire north of here. I would like to welcome you to our land of Equestria," Shining Armor saluted Optimus. "Thank you, young Prince," Prime replied as he returns the salute. "Actually, come to think of it, I dunno how Vincent's gonna react if he hears about this," Applejack quietly said to Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie and Rarity as they nodded in understanding what she meant. Twilight knew it as well. "I have to write a letter to Princess Celestia about this," she said. "Yeah, except Spike isn't here to send it. He's back in the library, remember?" Rainbow Dash reminded her. "Oh right. Well plan B. Let's meet up with Fluttershy, and Bumblebee. Then let's head to Canterlot to meet Princess Celestia." "Sounds fine to me," Pinkie Pie said in her chipper tone. "Good Idea. Cadence is currently there too," Shining Armor added. "We wanted to surprise you with our visit this week, but you're the one who gave me a huge surprise instead by making contact with aliens," "Then it's settled. Let's retrieve Fluttershy and Bee, and go to Canterlot," "I believe meeting the ruler of this world will greatly be benificial to us. Let us meet this Princess Celestia. Perhaps she can aid us in finding a way for us to return home," Optimus said. "Autobots, transform, and ROLL OUT!" Chapter 6As Bumblebee and Fluttershy continue to sit outside of her house, and wait for the others to return from the Everfree forest, Fluttershy's animal friends have joined in on the impromptu tea party she had put together. "Would you like some tea Bumblebee?" the pegasus asked. Bumblebee responded with his electronic whirls. "Oh, right, you're a robot," she replied. He gave another response to her. "Well, if you don't eat or drink, then how do you survive?" Fluttershy asked. Bumblebee gave an answer with his robotic voice. "Fuel up on Energon? What's Energon?" Just as the two conversed, Bumblebee then sees several vehicles approaching them. He immediately recognized them as the rest of his team, and riding inside of them except for Hot Shot, Kup, Ironhide, and Swerve, were the rest of the ponies, plus a male unicorn he hid from earlier. Rainbow Dash, however, still preferred to fly on her own. As the ponies exit the vehicles, they all transform into robot mode, giving Fluttershy quite the shock. "BEE! There you are!" Bulkhead happily yelled, as he walked towards his friend. "You're playing with animals? Heh, you're getting soft." The Wrecker then gives a light chuckle. "EEEP!!!" Bulkhead heard a high pitched squeal coming from next to him. "Um, hey..." Bulkhead meekly greeted the pegasus and waved at her. Bumblebee quickly spoke to Fluttershy in his electronic voice. "Oh, he's one of your friends? I see.... Well, he's very.... um, big..." she nervously said. "FLUTTERSHY!" The rest of the ponies called to her. As Fluttershy ran up and hugged all of them. "Oh, girls, you're ok! I was so worried. I was afraid the monsters from the Everfree Forest got you all." "Fluttershy," Twilight said to her. "I want to introduce you to our newest friends, This is Optimus Prime, and the Autobots." She pointed to a large red and blue robot that was taller than the rest. Fluttershy was shivering at the shear sight and size of it. Optimus then kneeled down, and addressed the timid pegasus. "Hello, you must be Fluttershy, As your friend Twilight stated, My name is Optimus Prime. I wish to thank you for your care of one of my fellow Autobots. It is clear that you may have saved his life. Do not be frightened, I know our appearance, can be rather imposing, but I assure you, we Autobots mean you no harm." Fluttershy, seeing the look in his eyes, and the gentle tone of his voice, understood, this alien visitor is indeed friendly. "For a big scary monster, you're very nice," she replied. "She's a cute one," Smokescreen said as he greeted Fluttershy. "I'm Smokescreen, warrior in training, and newest recruit to Team Prime." "Team Prime?" Pinkie Pie asked, "Are you guys superheroes? Because that would be the greatest thing ever." "Well, not exactly," Arcee answered. "We may fight bad guys, but we're more like soldiers than anything else." "That still makes you cool from my point of view." Rainbow Dash replied as she flies and the air and does several loops. "Well, I'm still 20% cooler." "Keep telling yourself that, kid," Arcee smirked. "Why do I always deal with the brash ones?" "Well, now that everypony's here..." Twilight began to say. "Everypony?" Wheeljack interrupted. "Yes, that phrase is a part of our every day language, is something wrong?" Twilight asked. "Whatever," he scoffed. "Dude!" Hot Shot snapped. "What?" the Wrecker replied. "So rude..." Rarity muttered, still disapproving of his mannerisms. "As I was saying, We need to head to Canterlot. Since Spike's not here, I won't be able to reach Princess Celestia, and under such short notice, I need to let her know about our visitors. Also, we have another pressing matter to discuss. Shining Armor and I were attacked by the changelings. Queen Chrysalis is back." "WHAT?!" Fluttershy shrieked. "That's right, sugarcube. Why if it weren't for Optimus here, they probably woulda' bought it," Applejack explained. "The big lug really pulled through." "That's terrible! We have to let Princess Celestia know about this," Fluttershy said. "I'm so glad you and Shining Armor are ok, Twilight." She then gives her Alicorn friend a hug, as she cries into her shoulder. "I'm fine Fluttershy," Twilight reassured her. "Commander Prime," Shining Armor addressed the Autobot leader. "I am at your service." "At ease, young one. Let us go to this capital of yours and meet the ruler of this world," Optimus said to the others. "Yes sir!" Shining Armor saluted. Twilight couldn't help but laugh, it's clear her brother had found a hero, though she herself couldn't help but admire the Autobot leader. He risked his own life to save them after all. "Canterlot is up that mountain side. You can see the castle from here," she pointed. "*whistles* Nice place," Smokescreen said as he looks at the capital. "Reminds me of the Crystal City of Iacon," Hot Shot said looking as well. "Well, what are waiting for? ROAD TRIP!!!!!" Pinkie Pie chimed in. "She's a lot of fun, Bee. I kinda like her," Smokescreen said to the scout. "We usually take the train, but since you guys are already vehicles, there's no point," Rainbow Dash said, as she rides Arcee's motorcycle mode. The group had already made their way up the mountain side towards the capital, with the ponies riding in the Autobots but Hot Shot, Kup, Ironhide, and Swerve. Pinkie Pie in Smokescreen, Applejack in Bulkhead, Rarity in Wheeljack, Fluttershy in Bumblebee, Rainbow Dash on Arcee, and Twilight and Shining Armor in Optimus. "Thought you wanted fly, kid," Arcee addressed the pegasus. "Normally yeah, but Canterlot is a bit of a trek, so I'll let you do the speeding. Say, you're pretty fast. We need to race sometime," Rainbow Dash replied. "I normally enjoy a good drive when I'm not being shot at by Cons," Arcee told her new companion. "Hooo doggie!" Applejack said as she sat in Bulkhead's passenger seat, "You look like yer as tough as an ox." "It comes with the job," Bulkhead replied. "I'm kinda the team's big bruiser." "Somepony with yer size and strength can really be a big help on the farm. Whatdaya say?" "Maybe," Bulkhead answered. "I know a few things about working labor. It's my former job before I became a soldier." "Ugh, Really now, Wheeljack," Rarity complained, "Must you be so bumpy? A lady should never be treated in such a rough manner ." "Stop being a backseat driver, and let me do my thing," Wheeljack responded. "Besides, where's the fun if everything's so smooth all the time...." Rarity merely rolled her eyes again at his comment. "Why am I stuck with the ruffian?" she thought to herself. It wasn't long before the group reached Canterlot, as they drove through the streets. Many of the ponies were dumbstruck at these, self propelled vehicles. Everywhere they drove, many of them stared, others were curious, some were frightened, others thought it was some traveling show. Bumblebee beeped and blipped to Optimus. "Indeed, Bumblebee. It appears that motorized vehicles are scarce on this world, to the point of non-existant," Optimus replied. "So no matter what form we are, we stick out like sore thumbs. Great," Arcee muttered. "Regardless, everyone maintain vehicular form until further notice. It is best we do not alarm the population," Optimus ordered. Soon they reached the castle's main gate. The guard standing in front were alarmed at the appearance of several unidentified vehicles that had stopped in front of them. As Optimus' doors open, both Shining Armor and Twilight Sparkle hopped out. "Long time no see, fellas," Shining Armor greeted his old comrades. "Captain Armor, SIR!" The guard saluted. "It's good to have you back. Your wife is waiting for you inside." "At ease, boys. My sister and her friends are here to see Princess Celestia, oh and these vehicles are to come into the castle courtyard with us." "Sir?" The guard asked. "Long story. But it's urgent," Shining Armor answered. "Yes sir, I'll inform Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, and Princess Cadence of your arrival as well as the bearers of the elements and Princess Twilight," The guard said as he opened the gate and allowed passage through. "Thanks, guys," Shining Armor replied. "Now that's settled. Let's get going," Twilight said to her brother. The pair then head back to Optimus and climb in his doors. "This way, Captain Armor, and Princess Sparkle," The guard pointed as the vehicles enter the castle gates. Now that they were inside, and no other guards were around, Twilight gave the signal as all the ponies exit their Autobot companion. The Autobots then transform into robot mode. "It's right this way, Optimus," Twilight pointed as they approach the main throne room gate. "Princess Celestia and Luna must be inside. I wonder if Cadence is there to," she wondered. "Let us go in first, Commander Prime," Shining Armor said. "Then when everything is settled, we'll call for you." "Understood," Optimus responded. Twilight gave a deep breath, and opened the main doors. As Shining Armor and the Mane 6 enter the room, Princess Celestia can bee seen sitting on her throne, while Luna was looking out the window and Cadence speaking with a number of guards. "Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor, and all of your dear friends," Princess Celestia greeted, "Such a pleasant surprise to see you all here," Celestia said. "Princess Celestia!" Twilight happily called to her teacher, as Celestia descends from her throne, and with her wings, gives her young student a hug. "Greetings, Twilight," Luna also responded, "It is always a pleasure to see you, and your wonderful friends again." "Thank you Princess Luna. I'm happy to see you too," she smiled at the night princess. The rest of the Mane 6 bow. "Oh yeah, there's one more surprise," Shining Armor then said to the Mane 6. "One more surprise?" Twilight asked. She then turned, and had a surprised look on her face, because she saw next to Princess Celestia's throne, an old friend of theirs. He had dark tan skin. brown eyes, black hair, a white shirt with a brown 96 and brown sleeves, white tan pants, a brick red wand in his sheath on the left part of his waist, and black sneakers with some green. It's me! "Hey, ya'll," I called. "Vincent!" Twilight called, happy to see me. I then walk down to greet my frends, and they chattered and hugged me as I did. "What are YOU doing back here in Equestria?" Twilight asked. "I heard about some meteor crash next to the Everfree Forest this morning and thought I'd check by to make sure everypony was alright," I answered. "I'm so happy to see you guys again." "We're happy to see you too," Twilight replied as Cadence greets her husband. "Well, took you long enough to get back here," she teased. "Well you know me, couldn't stay out of trouble," he teased back. "You know you spoiled the surprise right?" Cadence said to her husband. "Couldn't be helped right now. We have something important to discuss actually," Shining Armor, now back in serious mode. "Is something wrong?" Cadence now asked with concern. "I'll let Twily do the talking." "Princess Cadence!" Twilight happily galloped to her sister in law and former foal sitter. "SUNSHINE SUNSHINE LADY BUGS AWAKE, CLAP YOUR HOOVES AND DO A LITTLE SHAKE!" the two mares sang and danced in unison. "I'm so happy we can see again so soon Twilight, but Shining Armor said something came up. Is there something wrong?" the young princess asked. "Well, kind of yes, and kind of no," Twilight responded, confusing the three alicorn princesses and me (Question marks pop out from our heads). "Is there something troubling you?" Celestia asked in concern. "It's alright, you can come to me about anything." "Well, I'm sure that everypony already knows about the supposed meteor crash that happened close to the Everfree Forest this morning right? I mean it's all over the Foal Free Press as I noticed while traveling here." "Yes, of course," Princess Celestia responded. "Well, what fell out of the sky, wasn't exactly, meteors...." Confused, and now concerned, Princess Celestia became greatly curious. "It wasn't a meteor? Well, if that isn't the case, what exactly fell?" the princess asked. "Ho boy..." Twilight nervously said. "You can do it, Twi," Applejack reassured her. "Princess Celestia will understand." "Well, here goes. I think it's better to show you," Twilight answered. "Rainbow Dash, let them in." "Got it, Twilight," Dash said as she zipped towards the main doors. "What's going on?" Cadence asked in confusion. Not before long, Rainbow Dash reappeared from behind the doors as she opened them, and then loud footsteps could be heard. Very soon afterwards, a giant metal bulky, and green bipedal figure began to walk into the room. Behind it, another smaller yellow and black robot also made it's way in. Behind him was one who looked exactly like the yellow one, but in blue and orange red with flames, and he has a different head, with goggles on top. Following him was a big, bulky, dark red robot with a visor, powerful shoulders, and a tire on his back. Behind that one, a smaller, blue and more feminine one also walked in. Not long after, a white and blue figure with the number 38 on it's wing like protrusions also came in, followed by another white robot, that was rather gruff in appearance. Following him was a bright red, tough looking robot, followed by his twin, but this one was green. Finally, the largest, a red and blue colored giant also appeared as he walked calmly towards the princesses. He then lowers his head and looks at them. This one had a very dignified, strong, but yet, gentle aura. Cadence gave a slightly nervous and awkward grin, and waved at these newcomers (sweat drop streams on her head), while Luna was completely blown away, and I just faint, completely shocked that the Transformers were real! Celestia however, simply smiled, and seemed to be taking this very well. "Um Princess, please don't be alarmed. They're friendly. You see, we made contact with aliens," Twilight explained. "Yes, I can see...." Celestia responded, completely intrigued and amazed. The large red one then kneeled down in front of the Sun Princess. "Greetings, My name is Optimus Prime, we are Autonomous Robotic Lifeforms from the planet Cybertron. It is an honor to meet the head of royalty of this world. These are the rest of my companions... Arcee, Bulkhead, Bumblebee, Hot Shot, Swerve, Ironhide, Kup, Smokescreen, and Wheeljack." "Please," Celestia responded. "The honor's all mine. I am Princess Celestia, co-ruler of Equestria. This is my sister, Luna, and the lovely young one is Princess Cadence, ruler of the Crystal Empire." "And this is our to lieutenant of the Royal Guard, Vincent Sophuok," she introduced me as I regained my composure. I then saluted. The Autobots were lost to see me. "A human, in this world?" Hot Shot asked. "I can tell you about my story," I said. My friends, the princesses, Shining Armor, and I knew that if I told them I knew who they are, they'd think I'm crazy. So we all had to keep it a secret. "It isn't everyday that I get to meet a being from another world. Come, do make yourselves comfortable," Princess Celestia said to the Autobots. "Don't mind if I do," Wheeljack said as Arcee elbows him in his midsection. "You're in the presence of royalty, Jackie Boy. Show a little restraint," she hissed at him. "I thank you for the hospitality, your majesty," Optimus replied. "So how is it you came to our world of Equestria?" Princess Celestia asked. "That's something maybe I can explain," Twilight added. "You see, there was a magical mishap." "Magical mishap?" Celestia said, with a raised brow. Twilight immediately sank her head low with a nervous grin on her face. "Twilight, did you perform an advanced spell you couldn't control?" "Well...." "Princess Celestia, please! It wasn't Twilight's fault. It was mine!" A familiar squeaky voice shouted across the room. Rarity immediately recognized it. "SWEETIE BELLE?! What are you doing here?" Rarity shouted to her sister, who is joined by Spike standing behind her. "SPIKE!" Twilight called out. "There you are you guys!" Spike called, panting. Then he and Sweetie Belle see me. "Oh, hey, Vincent!" he greeted. Sweetie Belle waved to me as well. I was surprised to see them here. "Uh, h-hey, Spike, Sweetie Belle," I meekly greeted. "Is that, a talking lizard?" Wheeljack asked. "I've seen weirder," Arcee added. "Looks like a tiny Predacon, but organic," Bulkhead explained. "Well, we are in a world of sentient equines," Smokescreen chimed in. "Guess we should get used to talking animals." "Well, we kinda took Twilight's balloon and followed those weird looking vehicles that we saw heading towards Canterlot," Sweetie Belle explained, to Twilight's horror. "You did what?!" Twilight said in shock. "That was extremely dangerous! Hot air balloons are not a filly's toy." "It's ok, Twilight," Spike said. "I know how to work one. I've seen you do it like a million times already. It's not like you need it anymore, with you having wings now, and all." "I still have to take flying lessons to use them properly, Spike," Twilight said to the young dragon. "I thought I told you two to wait for me back at the library." "Please don't be mad. We were just worried about you when you never came back," he young dragon responded. "So these guys are aliens. That's so cool!" Sweetie Belle beamed as she ran up to the Bots. "Vehicles?" Luna asked. "Well, we Cybertronians have vehicle modes," Arcee explained. "We use it not only for locomotion, but sometimes, disguise as well." Arcee, Bulkhead, and Bumblebee then demonstrated by transforming into their V-modes. The Princesses looked on in wonder. Sweetie Belle, Spike, and I were mesmerized by it. The bots then transform back, as Princess Celestia begins to chuckle lightly. "Certainly convenient, when one is their own form of transportation," Luna joked. "Yeah, you probably don't have to worry about paying for train tickets for the rest of your life," Rainbow Dash added as she giggled. Pinkie Pie and Cadence couldn't help but laugh at the comment as well. "So what happened? How did these beings come to Equestria?" Cadence finally asked. "Well, I kinda did something with magic that I couldn't control. It opened up some kinda portal that brought these guys here from a different world," Sweetie Belle explained, with her head hung low while staring at the ground. "Young Sweetie Belle, what you did was a very dangerous and irresponsible thing. You could have seriously hurt yourself, or brought something far nastier to our world," Celestia said in a stern voice to the filly. "I'm sorry, I promise I won't do it again," Sweetie said. "Please, don't blame her," Rarity said. "She's still young. If anypony is to blame, it was me. Ever since I found that strange blue crystal." "Blue crystal?" Smokescreen questioned. "Yes, this crystal apparently enhances, and intensifies our unicorn magic," our friend explained. "Intensifies magic?" Shining Armor asked, "That sounds dangerous." "Indeed, Shining Armor," Celestia added, "Where did you find it, Rarity?" "On a mountain range right outside of Ponyville." "This is most disturbing. If a crystal can intensify magic without the user's control, it can seriously hurt some pony. And if an entire mountain is full of these gems, it can be diasasterous. We must quarantine the area for everypony's safety," Celestia explained. "I let the Royal Guard know about this," I nodded. "So what does this gem look like?" Cadence asked. "I got it right here," Spike said as he pulls out the fragment. All of the Autobots gasp as they see the crystal. "You gotta be kidding me!" Bulkhead said in surprise, "On this world?" "You guys know what this is?" Twilight asked in surprise. "Twilight, the crystal your friend Spike has in his possession, is no ordinary gem. It's called Energon. It's our fuel, and lifeblood. It is what sustains us. Without it, we Cybertronians can't survive," the Wrecker explained. "That's Energon? I heard Bumblebee mention it to me earlier," Fluttershy said, as Bee blipped and bleeped at her. "So you eat those things? They don't look very yummy," Pinkie Pie said while sticking her tongue out. "That's a raw Energon crystal, and highly unstable in this form. Keep it away from heat or any electricity, or else, BOOM!" Wheeljack said. "You mean it'll explode?!?" Spike shrieked as he drops it on the ground as the rest of the ponies and I back away as they hear what it will do. "Do not worry, you are not in any imminent danger," Optimus said as he picks up the Energon. "Once processed into stable Energon Cubes, or in liquid form, it will become useable as the fuel we need to survive." "Good thing I got an Energon processing kit back at the Jackhammer, or we'd be in some serious trouble," Wheeljack said. "Indeed," Optimus replied. "So, that entire mountain could explode, like a volcano?" Rarity asked in concern. "I wouldn't worry about it. If it's coated in rock, your town should be fine," Bulkhead reassured her. "Well if it's there, we'd better mine it," Swerve pointed out. "Agreed, Swerve," Optimus replied. "Well, since you are here on our world, I must ask, what do you seek?" Princess Luna asked. "Only aid, in our return back to our world," Optimus answered. "This Cybertron place?" The night princess asked again. "Unfortunately, we cannot return to Cybertron. Our home planet was rendered uninhabitable due to eons of Civil War." "War? How terrible," Cadence said. "Why where you fighting a war?" Twilight asked. "It was to stop a power hungry individual and his followers from plunging our world into darkness. One who I once trusted, and considered a brother.... Megatron. Megatron, and his followers, calling themselves, Decepticons, wished to conquer Cybertron and rule with oppression, and tyranny. To oppose this threat, The Autobots were formed. I am the leader of the Autobots. My team and I have fought Megatron and the Deceptcons for many millenia. The fighting was fierce, until one day, the very core of our world was infected by the darkness. Soon, our world stopped it's production of life giving Energon, and died. We were forced to take an exodus through space. We eventually came across a new planet called Earth. The planet was seeded with Energon from the early days of the war. Both sides began shipping Energon off of Cybertron. That is perhaps how your world has Energon deposits as well. We mainly live on this new world as robots in disguse, as we do not wish to cause a panic to the indigenous lifeforms that are not familiar with extraterrestials. Unfortunately, The Decepticons had also found Earth, and are now focusing on it's conquest. Megatron will stop at nothing to take the world by force. He is merciless, and evil. I pray that you will never have to face the Lord of the Decepticons." "That's terrible," Twilight said, with tears in her eyes as she listened to their plight. "To lose your home like that. I could never imagine losing Ponyville, let alone all of Equestria." "Let us hope you will never have to experience such a thing," Optimus said. "So, you're not staying with us?" Pinkie Pie sadly asked. "I am afraid we cannot," Optimus answered to her. "But, you're all my new friends. I don't wanna see you go." "So ancient aliens came to our world before and put this Energon stuff here? Wicked!" Spike said with a smile. "I am sorry Pinkie Pie, but we must return to Earth. I fear for the planet's safety. Our absence will only assure Megatron's victory. The inhabitants of Earth do not deserve to be subjugated by the Decepticons." Even I agreed with Prime. "He's right Pinkie. They don't belong here in Equestria," I told my pink friend. "I understand, Optimus Prime," Princess Celestia responded. "We will aid you however we can." "I thank you, your highness." Hearing Optimus's selflessness once again made Twilight Sparkle admire the Autobot leader. "There's one more thing I need to report Princess Celestia," Shining Armor said. "Queen Chrysalis and her Changelings have returned. Twily and I were attacked in the Everfree Forest." Princess Celestia gasps at the news. I was shocked especially. "Impossible..... I destroyed her with Nightmare Moon and King Sombra," I said. "We'll explain everything," Twilight said. "Oh no, are you two alright? You're not hurt are you?" the sun princess asked. Hearing this, Cadence immediately embraces both her husband and Twilight. "We're fine. It was Optimus who saved us," Twilight explained. All our eyes were now on the Autobot leader. "Optimus Prime, you have done us a great service. I cannot thank you enough for saving them. I consider Vincent, Shining Armor and Twilight Sparkle like family to me. Words alone cannot express my gratitude fully," Princess Celestia thanked. "I was merely doing my duty. We Autobots protect and defend the innocent." "Then please, let me make an announcement to our kingdom. I wish to give you the welcome you deserve during your stay," Princess Celestia said with a smile on her face. "Whoa, you mean all out in public?" Bulkhead asked. "Isn't Autobot rule number one on alien worlds is to keep a low profile?" Smokescreen added. "Are you sure this is a good idea? We don't want to start a panic among your people," Arcee explained. "Oh nonsense, you are our most honored guests. I can't have true heroes living in the shadows," Celestia replied. "INDEED LET US ANNOUNCE THE ARRIVAL OF OUR NEWEST FRIENDS FROM BEYOND THE STARS AND CELEBRATE WITH A GREAT FEAST!" Luna shouted in the traditional royal Canterlot voice. The Bots and other ponies and I just stared at her. "My apologies," Luna said while blushing. "That was awesome! I Can't WAIT to tell Apple Bloom and Scootaloo. ALIENS!" Sweetie Belle happily squeaked. "As for the Changelings, I will send patrols out to keep our citizens safe," Celestia said to the others. Far on the other side of the Badlands, A dark castle sits on a mountain. This was none other than the home of Queen Chrysalis, as this area was changeling kingdom. "Curse that Twilight Sparkle, and that metal freak for ruining my plans to take Canterlot. I will rule Equestia one way or another," she fumed. Suddenly, a loud thunderous sound could be heard, followed by the entire castle shaking violently. "What's going on?" Chrysalis yelled as her changeling guard reported to her. "My Queen, it appears that some large object fell from the heavens, and has crashed by the cliff side near the castle," the guard said. "Hmm, let us investigate then." As Queen Chrysalis, and a number of her minions head towards the area, they see something lying at the top of the cliff. Something alien, and something BIG. "Well now," Queen Chrysalis smirked. "I believe we have some new neighbors." Chapter 7It's been nearly twenty four hours since Optimus Prime and the other Autobots disappeared while investigating the strange portal that appeared over the base. Ratchet had not rested, or even moved from the computer monitors since the incident. He was glued to the screen, trying to find something, ANYTHING that could bring Optimus and the others back. As for Jack, Miko, and Raf, they too hadn't stopped worrying about their lost Autobot friends. "So tell me, doc bot," Agent Fowler said while losing his patience, "How, in UNCLE SAM'S BEARD have you not found them yet? I thought you're the smart one of the group." Ratchet was at his processor's end. "For The LAST time, Agent Fowler! We DON'T KNOW WHAT HAPPENED! I'm still tracing some of the residual energy from the vortex, but it's an energy I've never seen before!" "Are you sure the Cons don't have anything to do with this?" Fowler asked. "That's the other weird thing Agent Fowler," Jack answered. "There's been no sign of ANY Decepticon activity since it happened. It's like they just left." "WHO CARES ABOUT THE CONS!" Miko cried, as she was in tears. "I JUST WANT BULK AND THE OTHERS BACK! For All we know they could be suffering!" Hearing this, deeply upset the others, as Fowler, Jack, Raf, and Ratchet looked on with concern. The Autobots weren't exactly suffering, but they were indeed in a rather awkward position. For as long as they've been on Earth, they had alwasys been robots in disguise. This however, felt out of their element. Princess Celestia had called for a grand public announcement at Canterlot. The citizens gathered from all around Equestria were too busy gawking at the Autobots and not really paying any attention to Princess Celestia's welcome speech. "Do not think of them as other worldly beings! But as honored guests. Treat then as you would any other po..." Celestia corrected herself. "Citizen! This is to be considered a glorious moment for not just Canterlot, But for all of Equestria! Please I would like you to welcome our newest friends. It is my great honor to introduce, OPTIMUS PRIME AND HIS FAITHFUL AUTOBOTS!" There was a round of Cheering. Optimus did feel very humbled by this welcome. But he knew that coexisting with these new being was going to very difficult. However Twilight's warm smile did sooth his worries somewhat. "Well, so much for discreet," Arcee said as Smokescreen, Swerve, Hot Shot, and Bumblebee began waving to the crowd. "Doesn't seem so bad," Smokescreen added as he smiled and waved. "Of course!" Pinkie Pie said, as she sat on his shoulder, "Everypony's very happy to meet you, and they can't wait to be your friend!" "I still don't know if this is a good idea," Bulkhead said to Optimus. "We've always been keeping a low profile as not to cause a panic." "I understand and have noted your concern, Bulkhead," Optimus replied. "But these ponies seem less supersticious and more accepting than humankind. Perhaps it is for the best." As the bots continue to converse, Wheeljack then sees Sweetie Belle, the little unicorn filly from before run up to him. Behind her, two other young ponies around the same age range as her followed. One was a yellow filly with a red mane, and a bow in her hair, the other was a short maned orange pegasus. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo. As they run up the the Wrecker, he can clearly see the huge smiles on their faces. "See?! I told you, ALIENS!" Sweetie Belle beamed. "Hi Wheeljack, remember me? I'm Rarity's little sister. These are my two friends, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo. WE'RE THE CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS!" "Umm, yeah..." Wheeljack responded, slightly annoyed. "I think you're the coolest looking alien out of all of them," Sweetie Belle added. "And it looks like you already know Rarity pretty well." "We're not exactly friends." Wheeljack said to the filly. "I heard you can turn into a motor vehicle!" Scootaloo said. "How fast can you go?" "Yeah," Apple Bloom added. "Can ya do stunts and tricks?" Wheeljack simply rolled his optics and sighed. As Shining Armor stood next to Optimus, he was wearing his traditional red uniform. Identical to the outfit he wore during his wedding. As he stood proudly next to the Autobot leader, and his sister, Rainbow Dash began to giggle. Shortly afterwards, so did Princess Cadence. "You noticed it too, huh, princess?" Rainbow Dash asked, as she tried to hold back her laughter. "Ooooh, yeah," Cadence smirked. "What's so funny, you two?" Shining Armor asked. "NOTHING!" Both Dash and Cadence answered in unison, still snickering. Just then, I joined the laughter. Twilight then noticed our chuckling, looked at Optimus, then at her brother, then at the Autobot leader again, then her BBBFF again. Finally she got what her sister in law, Rainbow Dash and I found so amusing. The colors, the red torso, the blue helmeted head of Optimus, and Shining Armor's mane. The white colored legs. The two of them looked almost alike, though one's a giant robot, and the other's a unicorn. Soon, Twilight began joining in on the joke, as Shining Armor, still clueless as ever, looked on in confusion. The Nemesis.... "Dreadwing!" Megatron called to his second in command. "Damage report." "All of our engines are off line, and our weapon systems are non-functional, Lord Megatron," Dreadwing responded. "Looks like we're stuck, again," Skywarp said. Megatron was furious. His ship had crash landed in parts unknown, and is currently crippled. It would make him and the other Decepticons sitting ducks should the Autobots, or human military attack at this very moment. "Get the ship airborn immediately. Use what ever means neccessary!" Megatron ordered. At that moment, Soundwave, Thundercracker, and Knockout entered the main bridge. "Lord Megatron," Knockout bowed before his master, "Soundwave, Thundercracker, and I have discovered a rather, disturbing new piece of information regarding our current predicament." "Yes, what is it Knockout?" Megatron asked in an annoyed tone, clearly not happy to receive more bad news. Soundwave then plugs one of his tentacles into a computer terminal. "It appears, that we are no longer on Earth, my liege," Knockout said, with a hint of fear in his voice. He wasn't sure how Megatron would react. "What do you mean?!" Megatron angrily growled. "If we are no longer on Earth, WHERE IN THE PITS OF KAON ARE WE KNOCKOUT??!!" "According to Soundwave's readings, it appears we've crashed onto some uncharted planet, orbiting the Horse Head Nebula," Knockout answered. This was news Megatron did NOT want to hear. "Are you telling me, that I am denied my destiny of ultimate victory....because of some twist of fate that has us trapped on some PRIMUS FORSAKEN BACKWATER PLANET?!" Megatron was about to blow a gasket. "Find a way to get us back, NOW! Repair the engines, and plot a course back to Earth!" "That may not be so simple, my lord," Knockout responded. "And why, pray tell, would that be?" Megatron asked. "The engines will take several days to repair, Lord Megatron. And our shear distance from here, to Earth, would take us weeks to return. Even with the hyperdrive at full efficiency. But we'll most likely burn through our fuel reserves before we even reach Earth. This thing's a giant Energon guzzler after all.." "WHAT??" Megatron fumed. "I will not allow the Autobots to take advantage of our absence from Earth, and reap in all the spoils. Find a way to return us home, IMMEDIATELY Knockout, or you will regret the day you ever came online!" "Y...Yes, Lord Megatron," Knockout responded with fear as he hurriedly left the bridge. "Soundwave, Thundercracker, prepare to assist the repair crews." The Decepticon leader ordered. "Yes, Lord Megatron," Thundercracker Replied, as Soundwave simply nodded. Suddenly, Soundwave's visor picked up a blip, then several more, then even more appeared. "My lord," Dreadwing asked, "What is Soundwave detecting?" "It appears, we have some rather.... unwanted guests, Dreadwing," Megatron replied. From the dark corridors of the hall, a number of pupilless blue eyes appeared. Many of the Vehicons, and Insecticons drew their blasters at the intruders. Then a pair of green eyes appeared. The owner of the eyes then stepped into the light. The creature appeared to resemble a horse with a crooked horn, yet had insect like features. It also had a small crown in it's head. The more Megatron noticed the features, the more he realized, this creature is female. (It's Queen Chrysalis) "Nice place you have here," she said in a mock friendly tone. "A bit too high tech for my taste but it's not without it's charm." Megatron had no idea where this organic filth came from, but he wanted it off of his ship. He then points his fusion cannon at her. "You'd forgive me if I'd like to keep my ship pest free," Megatron said as his cannon began to charge. "Nice toy you have, may I try it out?" the creature said as she began to envelop herself in a green flash of light. However, to her shock, nothing happened. "What? Why can't I take your form?" "My form?" Megatron asked, slightly puzzled. "Blast! It appears I can't shapeshift into machines. No matter," she said, as she again envelops herself in a green flash. Standing in her place, was now a giant snake, around the same size as Megatron, yet she still retained her crooked horn on her head. The Vehicons, and Insecticons took defensive stances, as the rest of the Changelings began to advance towards the Cons. Dreadwing himself readied his cannon, the grey and red Stunticon who looked like Wheeljack but with a different head, Wildrider, pulled out his grenade launcher, a blue robot named Rumble and his identical red twin, Frenzy, turned their hands into pildriver guns and aimed, Skywarp and Thundercracker aimed their arm mounted missiles, and Soundwave prepared the Resonance Blaster. "Stand down," Megatron ordered. "I will deal with this organic myself." Right as Megatron was about to open fire, the giant snake had already jumped forward with lightning speed, surpising the Decepticon leader. Before long, Megatron was already coiled up, as the rest of the Decepticons prepped their weapons, ready to fight the intruders, and free their leader. "Ha, you're too slow," the snake taunted. "You and your drones will service us." "Megatron serves NO ONE!" he called out, as he struggles to break free. "Megatron? Nice name." She then charged up her horn, and fires a green beam at Megatron's chest. But then, something unexpected happened. As soon as the magical beam hit Megatron, it immediately caused some sort of strange feedback, and sent the beam straight back to her. She is then struck by her own magic as it backfired, knocking her down, and in another green flash, the snake had turned back to it's original horse-like insect form. "What happened? Why did my magic fail?" "Magic?" Megatron scoffed, "How utterly pathetic." As Megatron stood for a moment, he realized what had saved him. "Ah, yes. Dark Energon, the blood of Unicron the Destroyer flows through my veins. It has the ability to raise the dead, and it appears to have some rather, ill effects, on your particular abilities. Your shapeshifting powers, I admit, intrigues me. An organic on par with a Decepticon pretender, or a shifter like the late Makeshift." Megatron then approaches the creature, as the other changelings converge around her in a defensive stance. "No, please wait!" She pleaded. "I can be of service to you. I was wrong to fight you, please spare me and my children." "And why should I show you mercy when not but a short time ago, you wished to terminate me?" Megatron said, again pointing his cannon at her. "Because I can help you. I can be of service!" "Look around you, organic," Megatron seethed, "I command an army aboard a powerful warship. The last flesh creature who offered his services to me, Silas, I believe his name was, ended in absolute failure. That foolish Human paid the ultimate price, as I do not tolerate failure! What can you possibly offer me?" "What if I told you, I can help you return to your world." This caught Megatron's attention. "And how would you be able to do that?" he asked. "I can find a spell, in the Canterlot Royal Libraries. I know for fact that such a spell exists. It brought you here to our world in the first place after all. Of course, once you help me defeat Princess Celestia, the ruler of Equestria." "Equestria? Is that the name of this world?" Megatron asked. "You are correct, oh gracious Lord Megatron." "Enough of your groveling. I've heard enough from both Starscream, and Airachnid, two notorious traitors I formerly had in my employ!" Megatron yelled. "Of course," she responded. "You will find me this so called, spell, and return us to planet Earth immediately!" Megatron yelled. "It will not be such an easy task. Canterlot is the capitol of Equestria. The royal guard resides there, as well as the two royal sisters themselves. Their magic is great, and the capital heavily guarded. However, with this substance in your possession, Dark Energon, was it? It can be used against her abilities as you did with mine. And I also see this ship of yours is quite powerful once fully repaired to it's great potential. You can easily defeat Celestia and her forces, and then I can take the throne for myself. My Changelings and I will thrive, and this world will become my domain as I rule it." "I do not need YOU to patronize me, organic!" Megatron yelled as he was clearly losing his patience with this creature. "Please, call me Queen Chrysalis. I am the ruler of the Changelings," she introduced herself. "Well then, Queen Chrysalis," Megatron said, still disgusted at these organic changelings. "Why should I help you conquer this world, when I can easily vaporize you here and now, raid the capital myself, and use this so called spell, to return my Decepticons to Earth?" "For starters," Chrysalis answered. "You need someone to cast the spell. And since you Decepticons have no magical abilities, you'll need me to do it for you. Second, Celestia has a new ally. An off worlder much like yourself. Very powerful, and made of metal, very much like you and your kind. For all I know, he's probably one of yours." "And who, in Primus's name would that be?" Megatron asked, now curious. "He calls himself, Optimus Prime." Megatron's and Dreadwing's optic widen at the mention of that name. The Vehicons, Insecticons, Wildrider, Frenzy, Rumble, Skywarp and Thundercracker began to whisper and converse among themselves. "I see you're familiar with him," Chrysalis responded to the Decepticons' reactions. "He is my sworn enemy. It is my destiny to terminate him by my two hands!" Megatron yelled. "Optimus? Here? No matter, perhaps fate has been kind to me after all. As I will crush him, and bring glory to the Decepticon cause." "I too had an encounter with him. He thwarted my plans to kidnap Princess Celestia's prized pupil as a ransom. The ponies have themselves a rather strong bodyguard now." "Ponies?" Dreadwing asked. "The dominant species on this world, are sentient ponies," Chrysalis explained. "How utterly disgusting," Megatron muttered, "All the more reason to leave this place. This world seems to be even more primitive than Earth. It serves no purpose to the Decepticon cause." "Then help me take Canterlot. Once your forces, cripple the royal guard, Optimus Prime will surely fall soon after if we combine our two armies. Then I will hold up my end of the bargain, and return you to this, Earth, you so desperately wish to see again." Megatron merely growled, and pondered what Chrysalis just said. "So, do we have a deal?" Chrysalis asked. "...... So be it. Better to have a native on my side than against me. Though working with organics is still beneath me," Megatron replied. "But be warned, if I find that you are simply using us and abusing our resources, or if I detect any trace of treachery and deceit, I will not hesitate to make you suffer!" Megatron warned. "Now, begone!" "As you wish, mighty Lord Megatron. Come my children, let us return to our home. We'll be in touch." With that, Chrysalis and her changeling swarm teleported themselves off the bridge of the Nemesis in numerous green flashes. "Lord Megatron," Dreadwing asked. "Are you certain this is a good plan of action? I do not trust this Queen Chrysalis." "Rest assured, Dreadwing," Megatron responded, "I would sooner reduce Chrysalis to ashes than fully trust that insect . But until then, we have need of her arcane powers. I will have Soundwave monitor her activities." Soundwave nods in agreement. "Now then, Soundwave, send Laserbeak on reconnaissance. I wish to learn more about this planet before we make our move." With that, Soundwave's chest plate transforms into a bird like drone, and flies out of the bridge. About two hours later, Laserbeak returns and re-attaches itself back to Soundwave, who then inserts several of his tendrils into the main computer, as Megatron looked on. He sees a village full of colorful ponies, as they go on about their lives. Seeing this disgusted Megatron, as he saw no value in these creatures, and seeing their level of technology wasn't even on par with the humans. But something else caught his attention. "Soundwave, zoom in on that mountain range." Soundwave did what he was told, and enhanced on the mountain. There, what the Decepticons saw, greatly caught Megatron's interest. "Is that....?" Skywarp said. "Energon, an entire mountain full of Energon!" Dreadwing stated with amazement. "Here, on this world?" Thundercracker questioned. "Perhaps this world does have something worthwhile afterall." Megatron said to himself. He then activates a communications terminal on the computer. "Knockout," Megatron said into the computer's commlink. "I want all systems fully operational as soon as possible." Chapter 8Jasper, Nevada... It was around late afternoon, as Jack Darby had just finished his shift at KO Drive Through, the fast food joint he works at. He hadn't been able to focus too well at his job, be regardless still did it the best he could anyway. As he began to walk towards his bicycle, the only other form of transportation before Arcee came into his life, a familiar ambulance pulled up to the parking lot where Jack's bike was resting. It was Ratchet. But both the driver side door, and passenger door opened, and two people exited. Two people Jack knew, one was Agent Fowler, the other, his mother, June Darby, a nurse. "Mom? Agent Fowler?" Jack asked in surprised. "Hi honey, I finished my shift early at the hospital, and decided to come by right as you got off," June replied as she hugged her son. "Are you doing alright? I know this situation has been rough on you all." "I'll be fine, mom, but yeah. I'm still worried about Arcee and the other bots. It's been nearly 3 days now since they disappeared," Jack responded. "Don't worry, son," Agent Fowler said to the teen. "If I know Prime, he's probably doing everything he can to fix this issue, where ever he is." "Indeed, Agent Fowler," Ratchet added, still in vehicle form. "I have no doubt the others are in good hands with Optimus. Though it's Wheeljack's brashness, and Hot Shot and Smokescreen's inexperience I'm truly worried about. I WILL find them, rest assured." "Truth be told, I'm worried about Arcee as well," June replied. "Like Jack said, she's become family." "Mom?" Jack said in surprise. "What? Oh right, you don't know about this, but Arcee and I have bonded pretty well while you were either at work, or at school. Whenever she would be in the garage and not fighting Decepticons, she and I would sometimes have some 'girl talk'. It's actually really nice to have another woman around to chat with when I'm home by myself," June said, then giving him a wink. Jack simply eyed his mother, with a puzzled look. "I just hope you can find a way to get them back here soon, Ratchet," Fowler said to the Autobot medic. "I, will do my best. And I will not give up until they are located," Ratchet said, as the three humans look on at the Autobot. It has been several days since the Autobots arrived to the world of Equestria, and since then, thanks to Princess Celestia's welcome ceremony at Canterlot, the Autobots have become publically known to the entire kingdom. Princess Celestia had recommended that Optimus and his team stay in the nearby town of Ponyville. While the rest of the Bots accepted the offer, Wheeljack opted to stay with the Jackhammer still deep in the Everfree forest. He claimed it still needed repairs, which he wasn't lying, but at the same time, he wasn't much for crowds. Everywhere the Autobots went, they were hounded by the locals, asking them questions, and treating them like celebrities. As for Optimus himself, he and Twilight would make daily trips to the Canterlot Library to research a way for them to return home. As Smokescreen and Pinkie Pie walked down the street of Ponyville, they began discuss on a party to welcome the Bots to Equestria. "THIS WILL BE THE BEST PARTY EVER!" Pinkie squealed as she hopped next to Smokescreen. "Sounds like a lot of fun Pinkie. I love parties!" Smokescreen responded. "Well, maybe not Optimus. Primes usually don't party." "Aww, that's sad," Pinkie responded. "But I'm gonna make it extra special, that even Optimus will love it!" "I'm sure you will," Smokescreen said. "Now let's see what this town has to offer!" "We'll have Streamers and Cake and... Oh, wait a minute, do robots eat cake?" Pinkie asked. "No, we kinda don't. Sorry," Smokescreen answered. "OH! Well... I'll see if we have any motor oil!" Pinkie giggled. "I prefer Energon," Smokescreen responded. "OKIE DOKIE LOKIE!" Pinkie beamed. Smokescreen and Pinkie continued down their path to the party supply store, while only a couple of blocks away, Applejack had invited Bulkhead to accompany her to the market place to find some tools, supplies, and fertilizer for the farm. Being that he was one of the biggest, Bulkhead was certainly proving himself quite an inconvinience for all the pony shoppers and merchants. Every where at the market place you'd hear "YIKES!" or "WATCH IT!" or "CRUNCH" or" MY KART!" "Oops. Sorry. My bad. Sorry again!" stammered Bulkhead as he fumbled around clumsily about, trying to stay out of everypony's way. He was having trouble with the terminology. He had brought a new meaning to his job as an Autobot "Wrecker". Applejack smiled slightly, as it was kind of funny to watch each time Bulkhead had one of his accidents. "Don't you worry about it, partner. They'll get over it. After all, ya didn't mean to do it," Applejack reassured the Wrecker. The duo stopped by a melon cart and saw an old lady mare checking all the melons. "Say, some melons would be mighty fine," Applejack said as she began to tap, poke, and prod at some. "Uhh, what are you doing, AJ?" Bulkhead asked. "Well, you have to be picky this time of year if you want a ripe melon!" Applejack told them. "Ripe one's are the good ones?" Bulkhead asked. "There's nothing more tasty then a ripe melon! Well, maybe a ripe Red Delicious Apple, but that's beside the point," Applejack replied. "How do you know if they're ripe or not?" asked Bulkhead. "The soft shells!" Applejack answered. With that Bulkhead picked up the whole cart, gently pressed ALL the melons. But even gently was enough to squash ALL of them. Melon juice sprayed everywhere. "SAY! These Are ALL Good!" Bulkhead happily stated. But then he saw the damage he had caused and all the angry stares directed at him. "Scrap......" Bulkhead muttered. "I am SO DUMB!" "Aw, don't be so hard on yourself, big guy," Applejack reassured him. After apologizes were made, Bulkhead glumly strode out of the market place with Applejack on his shoulder. Applejack eyed her new friend with sympathy. He didn't mean to cause such a mess. But then Applejack had an idea. "I got it!" How's about helping me over at the Farm?" "Heh, I'll see what I can do AJ," Bulkhead said sheepishly. Over at the front yard of Carousel Boutique, Arcee was put in a rather strange spot, as Rarity had her wrapped in a tape measure. She was planning on giving the female Autobot a complete makeover, and a dress, much to Arcee's reluctance. "Listen," Arcee said to the fashion unicorn. "I'm not exactly a glamour girl." "Oh but you are so abolutely LOVELY my dear," Rarity responded, which Arcee couldn't help but feel slightly flattered. "Now then, time for your makeup," the fashionista stated as she began levitating several items such as lipstick, eyeshadow, and powdered blush up to Arcee's face. "Oh no...." Arcee muttered as Rarity began applying makeup to her metal face. Just as Rarity began working her magic, Smokescreen and Pinkie Pie happened to walk by, and by Pinkie walking by, I mean hopped by, and see the commotion. "Ha, so what's going on here?" Smokescreen asked as he watched Arcee's treatment, barely able to contain his laughter. "Not now, kid," Arcee seethed under her breath as Rarity continued to work. "Didn't take you for a dressup doll, Cee," Smokescreen teased as Pinkie Pie also giggled. "If I hear another peep out of you, you'll be the first race car in Equestria with a permanent limp, got that?" Arcee threatened. "Hey, lighten up, I'm just playing around. I mean, come on, you actually don't look that bad. In fact, you look kinda cute," Smokescreen said. "You.... think so?" Arcee asked. "Of course!" Pinkie Pie chimed in. "Your face looks like a parrot exploded on it, then exploded AGAIN!" At this point, Smokescreen couldn't keep it together anymore, and began having uncontrollable fits of laughter with Pinkie. "THAT'S IT!" Arcee yelled "I'm kicking your tailpipe all they way back to Iacon!" "You gotta catch me first!" Smokescreen laughed as he transforms into his race car mode, as Pinkie hops into the driver seat, and he roars off and he and Pinkie continue laughing. "Oh who needs them, anyway," Rarity said. "Let us continue." Suddenly, a blue blur zipped by and landed in front of both Rarity and Arcee. Rainbow Dash stood panting in front of the duo. "Dash? What's wrong?" Arcee asked with concern. "Arcee quick!" Rainbow Dash called out. "There's an emergency, I need your help." "What kind of emergency?" Rarity asked, also with a concerned look on her face. "No time to explain! Arcee, you gotta come with me, NOW!" Rainbow Dash yelled. "But, I'm not finished with her makeover," Rarity complained. "No time, we gotta go!" Rainbow Dash said again as she flies off toward the distance. "Sorry Rarity, but duty calls," Arcee said as she wipes of her makeup, transforms into her motorcycle form, and speeds off after Dash. "Hang on, Dash. I'm right behind you." After driving several miles out into a wooded area, Arcee sees Rainbow Dash land in an open meadow. "Ok, Dash. What's the emergency?" Arcee asked, as she transforms into robot mode. "No emergency," Rainbow replied with a smirk on her face, "I just needed to get you away from Rarity. You didn't exactly look like you were having a good time being all dolled up. Believe me, I know that feeling." Arcee looked at Rainbow Dash with a cocked brow. "Well, that wasn't very nice," Arcee stated, "Heh, thanks, kid. Good to know you have my back." She then smiled at the pony. "Hey, no problem," Dash said as she flies up to Arcee's eye level. "So now that we're here, you wanna race?" "I don't have any other plans, sure. Just be warned, I don't think you know what you're in store for," Arcee replied. She then transforms into her vehicle mode. "That's the spirit," Rainbow Dash said as she readied herself. "First one back to Ponyville is the winner," Dash said, "Ready, set.....GO!" They take off at high speeds back towards Ponyville. At first the race had them neck and neck, until Arcee hits her overdrive, and takes the lead. "Say, you're not bad. But no way you're beating me! I'm the fastest flier in all of Equestria," Rainbow Dash stated, as she suddenly inched forward towards the bot. "Pretty impressive stuff, Dash," Arcee said as she sees Rainbow Dash catch up to her in her side view mirrors. "Petal to the Metal!" Arcee then shifts into a higher gear, and speeds off again. "Oh no you don't!" Rainbow Dash says, as she soars over Arcee, then in a massive burst of speed, she jets forward, and suddenly, there seemed like an explosion. A rainbow colored explosion suddenly propels Rainbow Dash forward with incredible lightning speed, as Arcee suddenly comes to a stop, transforms, and looks up at the sky, her jaw wide open. Rainbow Dash then lands right next to Arcee, who was still in shock. "Ha, you should see the look you have on your face right now!" Dash begins laughing. "How, wha? How did you do that? WHAT WAS THAT?" Arcee asked, dumbfounded. "That, my friend, is the Sonic Rainboom. It's a rainbow colored sonic boom which I'm the only one capable of pulling off. Guess I win. I mean, breaking the sound barrier and all." "Interesting. I had no idea a flesh being like you can pull off something like that," Arcee said, still amazed at what had transpired. "Don't take it personally. I trained hard to pull that off. It's not easy," Rainbow Dash explained. "You're really something, kid," Arcee said while smiling. "Your attitude reminds me, of an old friend of mine." "Oh? Who?" Dash asked. "Cliffjumper. You're kind of like him. Brash, Bold, Confident, and never backed down from any challenge," Arcee explained. "And like your pink friend, he was quite the chatterbox." "He sounds really cool. So when do I get to meet him?" Rainbow Dash asked. Arcee's attitude then changed to that of sadness. "Are you ok?" Rainbow looked on with concern. "Sorry, I shouldn't have brought up Cliff. It's a bit of a touchy subject," Arcee answered. "Why not? Isn't he your friend? It's always a good thing to remember your friends," Rainbow Dash said. "Something bad happened to him. Starscream happened," Arcee told the pegasus, "Starscream is a dangerous Decepticon, and formerly Megatron's second in command. Cliff was captured by the Cons, and murdered in cold blood by Scream's hands." Rainbow Dash gasped, then looked at Arcee with sympathetic eyes. "Oh no, Arcee, I... I'm so sorry to hear about that. And I'm really sorry to bring up a subject that brought you so much pain." "It's alright kid. I learned sometimes talking about it helps with the recovery of loss," Arcee stated to the pegasus. Rainbow Dash smiled at her new friend, as they begin to make their way back to Ponyville. In the mountain range outside of Ponyville, Swerve, Hot Shot, Ironhide, and Kup were actually searching for the Energon Rarity found. Swerve was leading the way, using his energon tracker. "Swerve, are you certain this is where Rarity said she found the Energon?" Kup asked. "Trust me, Kup. My energon tracker never lies," Swerve confidentially answered. Hot Shot then noticed, Ironhide had a concerned look on his face. "Somethin' bugging you, Ironhide?" he asked. "I don't know," the weapon specialist replied. "It doesn't feel the same here without the Decepticons." "Hey, look on the bright side," Hot Shot tells him. "If the Cons were here, they'd be destroying this place all over. Just be glad they're not on this world." "Yeah, maybe you're right. Still, what if they took over Earth already?" "You and I have the same thought, Ironhide," Kup replied. "As soon as gather what we need, we'll be ready to leave." "This is such a peaceful world," Hot Shot said. "Maybe this can be another one of my old stories," Kup added. Suddenly, Swerve's energon tracker starts beeping loudly. "Guys, I'm getting a reading! It must be here!" Swerve said. As they got closer, they couldn't believe what they saw. They've found it. "By the Allspark," Ironhide muttered in awe. "Ha, look at all this Energon!" Swerve exclaimed with excitement. "We could LIVE here with all this! Time to get mining!" So he runs up and gets started right away. In the outskirts of Ponyville, by Fluttershy's cottage, Bumblebee and Fluttershy were taking a stroll through the meadow. "Here, Bumblebee," Fluttershy said to the bot. "Take some of these seeds and sprinkle them over the plain." Bumblebee replied with his electronic blips, and did as she said. He then sees different types of birds fly down from the trees as they began eating the seeds. "That's right, eat up, my feathered friends," Fluttershy said with a smile. "Here, take these," Fluttershy said, as she places a number of acorns and nuts into Bee's hand. "Kneel down a bit," she instructed, as Bee did so. Before he knew it, several squirrels had climbed onto Bumblebee's hand and began to eat the nuts and acorns. "Aww, I think they like you," Fluttershy said. Bumblebee blipped and bleeped in his Cybertronian language. "Of course, Bumblebee," Fluttershy responded to him. "You ARE getting rather good at this. It's always nice to make new friends." After they had finished feeding Fluttershy's animals, Bumblebee looked at the direction of Ponyville. Ever since he and the others got there, he couldn't help but feel homesick while walking through the small town. It reminded him too much of Jasper, Nevada. Both were rural small towns in a backwater area. He began thinking about Raf, and how worried his human friend must be about him. "Bumblebee? Are you alright?" Fluttershy's voice broke from the Autobot's daze. Bumblebee responded with his electronic tone. "Oh, I see. You miss your home, and your friends, don't you?" Bumblebee nodded, with a sad look in his eyes. "Don't worry, I'm sure Twilight will find a way to send you home." Then Fluttershy had a sad look on her face once she realized what she was saying. Bumblebee also noticed this too, as he also began to feel a certain sadness. He had become rather close to the pony. Much like his bond with Raf, saying goodbye to her will be just as hard. "Let's not dwell on that right now," Fluttershy said. "And enjoy our time together." Bumblebee bleeped in agreement. "So tell me about your friend back home." Bumblebee gave another electronic beep. "His name is Raf? So what kind of pony is he? A pegasus like me? or a unicorn, or an earth pony?" Bumblebee simply shook his head, and gave another electronic response. "Oh so he's not a pony. Well, is he a griffon, or a minotaur? Or maybe he's a donkey, or a mule." Bumblebee thought it was about time to tell Fluttershy about who and what humans were. In Canterlot.... Optimus and Twilight had spent some time now researching the royal library. Fortunately, the halls of the library were large enough for Optimus to fit in, as he and Twilight flipped through a number of books in the Star-Swirl the Bearded section. "Hmm, this Star-Swirl the Bearded seems to be a well respected individual in your history," Optimus stated. "Yes, indeed he is," Twilight responded. "If it weren't for him, modern unicorn magic probably wouldn't exist. We owe a lot to his studies." "Very interesting," Optimus said back to the young alicorn. "His demeanor and research reminds me very much of my own mentor, Alpha Trion." "Who's that?" Twilight asked. "Alpha Trion was the one of the wisest, and oldest Cybertronians to ever exist, as well as one of the original Thirteen Primes of Cybertron. He was in charge of the Iacon Hall of records, the great library of my world. Much like this establishment here. The similarities are astonishing." "Sounds wonderful. This Alpha Trion must have been a great Autobot." "Indeed he was," Optimus answered, "He personally took me under his wing, before I became a Prime." "Before you became a Prime? I don't understand," Twilight said with puzzlement. "I was not always the leader of the Autobots. I was once Alpha Trion's apprentice, as an archivist. I studied under him for many millenia, long before the great war started on our world. It was during the great Golden Age of peace on Cybertron. Much how like your world is now," Optimus stated. He couldn't help but admire the beauty, tranquility, and peace Equestria has to offer. "How I wish such peace your world has, can be returned to Cybertron. However, Megatron and his Decepticons have made that impossible." "I'm sorry to hear. It must have been awful to live through and fight in a war. I can't begin to imagine how that's like," Twilight sadly stated. "So you were a librarian? I find that facinating. I guess we're not all that different you and I." "No, I suppose not," Optimus said with a smile to Twilight. Hearing this, Twilight's admiration for Optimus increased. "So, what happened to Alpha Trion?" Twilight asked. "I do not know his ultimate fate after the war broke out. Though I wished I did," Optimus responded. Twilight could hear the sorrow in his voice. She felt great sympathy for him. She couldn't bear the thought of losing me or any of our friend, or losing Princess Celestia. "I'll do my best to help you, Optimus. We'll find the spell to return you home," Twilight stated. "Though, a part of me wishes that you can stay here with us." "I understand your feelings. I too wish I can stay in such a tranquil world, but we have our responsibilites back on Earth. We must protect humankind from Megatron." "Well, our world also has it's evils. Before Princess Luna was redeemed, she was once known as Nightmare Moon. She tried to cover the entire world in darkness, until we used the Elements of Harmony on her and purged the evil from her heart. Now she's one of our dearest friends, and a great co-ruler of Equestria." "As I have read in your archives, young Twilight, it is indeed a fascinating story," Prime stated. "And there's also Discord, the spirit of Disharmony and Chaos. His magic nearly turned Equestria upside down, and corrupted each of my friends. Granted he seemed more like a prankster and jokester with his antics, such as making cotton candy clouds that rained chocolate milk, making ponies act out of character, and turning street into soap, but he was still a serious threat. I too was affected by his magic. He turned my friends and I against each other so that the Elements of Harmony would be rendered useless. It wasn't until that I remembered the Magic of Friendship, that I was able to cure myself, and the others. We finally confronted Discord, and the Elements were able to turn him to stone. Later, Princess Celestia believed Discord could be rehabilitated, and had us release him from his stone prison. But he quickly went back to his old antics again. However, thanks to Fluttershy showing Discord the true meaning of friendship, he's reformed now.... Somewhat at least." Twilight took a breather, then continued to tell the stories of the other villains of Equestria. Optimus couldn't help but feel that this Discord, seemed similar to Unicron, another being of Chaos, but more whimsical. "There are also bad ponies, such as the evil King Sombra. Long ago, he once enslaved the Crystal Empire and forced the citizens to live in misery. Before his first defeat by Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, he placed a curse upon the Empire that made it disappear for a thousand years. When the Crystal Empire returned, so did King Sombra, as he tried to conquer the land again. It wasn't until we retrieved the Crystal Heart that Sombra was finally destroyed for good." As Optimus listened to Twilight's tale, he couldn't help but feel slightly uneasy, as this.... King Sombra... somewhat reminded him of Megatron. "There's also Sunset Shimmer, a unicorn who was also once Princess Celestia's student, and Vincent's old friend, some time after he became lieutenant. However, she became disgruntled, and stole the Element of Magic. She took it through a magical mirror that led to an alternate universe. Sunset Shimmer tried to use it to control the inhabitants of the mirror world, and use them to take over Equestria. The stolen powers of the crown turned her into a demonic creature, and you wouldn't BELIEVE what I had to go through to stop her, and retrieve my element. Fortunately, Vincent and I ran into that world's counterparts of my friends, and using the spirit of the Elements of Harmony, we were able to defeat Sunset Shimmer, and purge the dark magic from her. Thankfully, our other parallel counterparts from that world showed her what it means to have friends, and she too was redeemed." Twilight took another break and sipped some tea, as the Autobot leader was glad to hear that another being was reformed from past misdeeds. Hearing about a mirror that grants access to an alternate universe also made Optimus slightly curious. "Finally, there's Queen Chrysalis, the changeling queen. She impersonated Princess Cadance during her wedding to Shining Armor. She feeds off of love, and tried to use my brother's love for Cadance to empower herself. It was enough power to beat Princess Celestia, and her army nearly conquered all of Canterlot. Thankfully, Shining Armor and Princess Cadance love for each other unleashed a powerful spell that repelled Chrysalis and her invading army away to parts unknown. Not long after, she stirred up trouble again by replacing the population of Ponyville with Changeling dopplegangers, and kidnapped Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. We had to travel to the Changeling Kingdom in order to rescue them. It was a long journey that tested our mettle, and friendships, as Chrysalis sent Changelings to impersonate my friends, and myself in an attempt to drive us apart. Not to mention all of the predators we had to go against on the way. Finally we reached her castle, but we still had puzzles and riddles to solve before reaching our goal. Unfortunately, the others were captured, and I had to face Chrysalis on my own. Chrysalis held my friends hostage and threatened to drain their love if I didn't join her and become her pupil. At the time, I nearly gave up, and accepted her terms. But as soon as the Secretariat Comet passed by our world, it amplified my own magic. After a long magical duel, I was able to defeat her, and trap her within her own castle walls. Just then, she came out stirring trouble again. She was able to find the remains of King Sombra, and the evil remains that were out of Princess Luna to summon Nightmare Moon. They captured Vincent, and made him serve under them. He launched an attack on Ponyville, Canterlot, and the Crystal Empire. My friends and I came face to face, and we we're able to break him from his mind control by reminding him of the good times we had as friends. He then confronts the villains, and he can summon the powers of the Elements of Harmony, and the Crystal Heart, into his own armor with the elements, and he was able to destroy them, including Chrysalis. But as you know, she has recently returned. I take it you remember the Queen all too well from the battle you had with her in the Everfree Forest...." Optimus nodded, as he remembered his encounter with the vile witch in the Everfree Forest just a few days ago. "Evil exists on all worlds, no matter how peaceful they can be. It is the natural balance of the universe, like it or not," Optimus stated. "But it is also our responsibility to make the correct choices in life." "I understand," she replied. "And it's also our responsibility to safeguard and protect our home from the said evil." Twilight then sipped her tea again. She then addresses the Autobot leader with her own questions. "How about Earth?" she asked. " While I've already heard about the story of Cybertron, regarding Megatron, and his Decepticons, what's your new home like?" "Planet Earth, is an organic based planet, much like your home of Equestria," Optimus explained. "It is home to a race of sentient hominids called humans." "Hominids? As in apes? Very interesting," Twilight stated as she continued to listen to Optimus's explaination. "They sound like the natives who live in the alternate universe through the magic mirror." "Yes, and while the humans are a highly intelligent race with advanced technology, they are still unaware of the existance of other worldly beings amongst their population. We keep ourselves hidden, and live as robots in disguise, as not to start a panic. While most humans try to live peaceful lives, there are some however, that have been corrupt with power, and fell to evil intentions." "I see," Twilight replied as she listened. "Very much like King Sombra, or Queen Chrysalis." "Indeed, my young friend. One in particular, was Colonel Leland Bishop, also known as Silas. Silas was a ruthless human male who wished to overthrow the current established government when he became disgruntled after his discharge from the military. He formed a terrorist organization called MECH. Silas and MECH would steal the most advanced and innovative technology available to further his plans for world domination. His ideals were very much like Megatron himself. Eventually, Silas became aware of our existance, and attempted to dissect us to learn about Cybertronian physiology. Soon, he was able to build his own makeshift Cybertronian, based off of my image. But thanks to our own human allies, we were able to thwart his diabolical schemes." "That's horrible," Twilight said after hearing the tale. "I'm glad you were able to stop him." "While some humans, like certain Cybertronians, are capable of evil deeds, that does not mean that we will condemn their kind because of the actions of a few. Humanity is still considered a young race, and are by no means perfect. While Humankind may be susceptible to darker intentions such as crime, violence, and war, they also have the potential and capacity to do heroic feats, for a greater good. I have witnessed their traits for compassion, courage, honor, justice, humility, and love. To me, we are all the same, be it a Cybertonian, a pony, or a human. All sentient beings, are equal, and deserve peace." "If they're anything like the people of the mirror dimension, then I know exactly what you're talking about. I guess in a way, we really AREN'T all that different," Twilight beamed at the Prime. "I would love to visit Earth some day." "And I personally, would welcome you to our new home," Optimus replied to her. Twilight then notices Optimus's uneasiness in what he was about to address next. "Is something wrong?" she asked. "The story I am about to tell you next, is not a pleasant one. It involves a great evil. There is great force of darkness that lies in the very core Planet Earth. Unicron, the Chaos Bringer," the Autobot explained. "Unicron, the Chaos Bringer? As in another spirit of Disharmony and Chaos, like Discord?" Twilight asked. "No. Unlike your Discord, Unicron is the ultimate evil. In the beginning, there was Primus, and there was Unicron. One the incarnation of creation, the other of destruction. For eons, Primus and Unicron battled. The balance of power shifted between them more times than could be counted. Only by creating, The Thirteen, the original Primes who proceeded me, was Primus finally able to defeat Unicron, and cast him out. Primus became the very core of our planet, Cybertron, creating life through the Well of the Allspark, while Unicron drifted through the cosmos aimlessly. Eventually due to gravitational force, debris from space gathered around the slumbering Titan, forming Planet Earth." Hearing this, Twilight's eyes widen. "You mean this, Unicron, IS Planet Earth?! But what if he awakens? What will happen to the humans?" she asked in concern. "We have already faced against Unicron during a planetary alignment in their solar system. The magnetic and gravitational fields awoken the Lord of Chaos. Causing the planet to mutate, as massive storm systems began to plague it's inhabitants. During the conflict, it was the one time in many millenia, that Megatron and I joined forces once again to stop Unicron's uprising. Megatron only wanted Unicron destroyed, so that he can conquer Earth in his own way. The battle was fierce, but thanks to Megatron's temporary alliance, we were able to reach the very spark of the Chaos Bringer. There, I unleashed the power of the Matrix of Leadership, to stop the evil force once and for all." The young alicorn princess was awestruck by his story. "The Matrix of Leadership?" she asked. "An artifact of the Primes. It is Primus's very essence, and what grants me the power of being a Prime. Only those worthy to lead, and with a pure spark, are chosen to be it's vessel." Optimus then opens his chest compartment, and shows her, a glowing golden orb at the center. "It's, beautiful!" Twilight beamed as she stared upon the Matrix. "Yes, the power of the Matrix I believe, is similar to your Elements of Harmony. Important relics used to safeguard our respective worlds." Optimus explained as he closes his chest compartment. "Earth and Cybertron are inexplictably linked to one another. Two halves of one whole. Primus and Unicron. It is all the more reason why we must stop Megatron from conquering the planet. Not just to protect the innocent lives that reside there, but to also never allow the Decepticons to harness the power of Unicron," Optimus said. "That's, pretty deep," Twilight responded, slightly at a loss for words. Twilight smiled at Optimus. She couldn't help but feel an overwhelming respect for him. His gentle nature, and selfless need to protect others, as well as his sage like wisdom made Twilight feel as if he were a second teacher and mentor to her. The very similarities she had with him also made her feel closer to the Autobot, as if he were like a father figure. "I'm glad to have met someone like you, Optimus," she said happily, and with great reverence. Twilight then begins to feel very tired. She had been researching with the Autobot all day. "As am I, to have met you, Princess Twilight," Optimus said to the young princess. " I only hope, that Earth has not fallen already. We have been away for far too long. There is no telling what Megatron may have done in our absence." He then notices, Twilight had nodded off, and fallen asleep. "Hmm, it has indeed been a long day for you, my little friend," Optimus said as he looks at her. "I hope I'm not interrupting." A new voice said from behind him. It's Princess Celestia walking up to him, with me beside her. "Not at all, your royal highness," Optimus replied. "Please, no need for formalities. Call me Celestia," the princess addressed the Autobot leader. "Very well, Celestia," Optimus responded. "To what do I owe the Honor?" "Vincent and I have found the book, and Luna is researching it as we speak. If all goes well, We should be sending you home fairly soon," Princess Celestia replied. Her voice took on a sad tone after that last part. Optimus had to admit for so short of time, strong bonds had been made with these special beings. "I'm sorry it has to come so fast," I told the princess. "Your majesty," Optimus began. "I would once again like to thank you for your generosity and kindness during our stay here. You have been a most benevolent host and a wise ruler and your disciples have been most loyal and helpful to us." Princess Celestia was touched. "Thank you so very much, Optimus. It has been an honor having you and your brave soldiers visit us. The truth is.. I will be sad to see you go. Our kingdom has been much, well, livelier since your arrival. You have also opened our minds about the aspect of the existance of other worlds and lifeforms not just through the dimensional mirror." "I have heard word of this mirror which grants access to an alternate universe. Where does it lead?" Optimus asked, curious about the artifact. "Only Twilight knows. Perhaps you should ask her some time," Celestia replied back. "Or ME," I added. Celestia then looked at her sleeping student. "Thank you for being so kind to my ponies, especially Twilight. If I'm not careful, you may replace me as her mentor and teacher," Celestia joked. Optimus gave a smile at the white alicorn princess. "And I believe that by her helping you return to your home, will also help her in honing her skills in being a princess. She only recently became an Alicorn and was coronated. It was her destiny." "Her destiny?" Optimus asked. "Twilight is not meant to live an ordinary life. She was destined for greatness in her future. She has since reached her ascension by becoming a Princess, much like myself, my sister, and Cadence. It's almost similar to the way Vincent became a lieutenant. He was determined. I'm sure you have a very similar story of how you became a leader yourself. Maybe you should tell us some time. Both Twilight and I, would love to hear it," Celestia then winked at him. "Perhaps," Optimus replied back to Celestia. His voice then took a more sorrowful tone. "Though, it is not a happy tale of how I became a Prime...." "I see... I apologize if I brought up any painful memories then," Celestia said hearing the pain and sadness in his voice. She felt a tinge of guilt for bringing up the subject, and heartbreak for the Autobot, after hearing his earlier story of what had befallen his homeworld of Cybertron. "It is, quite alright, princess." the Autobot reassured her. He then gives Celestia a warm smile, showing that he was not at all offended, and that he genuinely enjoyed her company. Celestia felt relief, and joy wash over her. She too, greatly enjoyed his company, and felt great respect for Optimus, as he too was a leader who cared for those under his watch. Like Twilight, she too, would greatly miss him and the other Bots once they returned to Earth. Optimus, Princess Celestia, and I another look at the sleeping Twilight Sparkle. "I will return her home to Ponyville," Optimus stated, as he gently scooped up Twilight in his hand, being careful not to wake her. "Have a safe journey home. We bid you both a good evening," Celestia responded, as she slowly walked out of the room. I then nodded to Prime, and followed the princess. Little do any of us know, Soundwave, in his military drone form, had been flying over Ponyville, spying on the activities of the Autobots. He had recorded the day's events, and is now on his way back to the Nemesis, to report his findings back to his master, Megatron. Chapter 9"Are you sure we won't get into trouble for this?" A very nervous Apple Bloom asked Sweetie Belle, as she, and Scootaloo followed the little unicorn filly, as they made their way through the Everfree Forest. "It'll be fine, Apple Bloom. I'm sure we can get our cutie marks in forest navigation," the little unicorn replied. "I really have a bad feeling about this, girls," Scootaloo said as they made their way deeper into the forest. "I mean, I'm sure everything will be ok," Sweetie Belle reassured her two friends. Yet she herself was feigning courage, while truth be told, she was also scared. As they continued down the forest path, they heard some rustling sounds coming from behind the brush. The three fillies instantly freeze, and huddle together, in fright. "Umm, anypony there?" Apple Bloom asked in a nervous voice. Then, a very strong odor seemed to emminate from the brush of where the noises were coming from. "Eww, what is that?!" Sweetie Belle said in disgust, holding her nose with her hoof. "I dunno, but it really, REALLY stinks! I think something died on the other side of those bushes," Scootaloo complained, as she made gagging sounds. Apple Bloom, as grossed out by the smell as she was, took another whiff, she immediately recognized the smell. "Oh no, I know that smell. We have to get outta here, NOW!" the young earth pony shouted. But it was too late, from behind the brush, five large creatures jumped out and started snarling at the fillies. "TIMBERWOLVES!" Apple Bloom shouted, as the other two ponies screamed. The trio began to run as fast as they could, as the timberwolves gave chase. The wolves howled, and snarled as they chased the filles. Scootaloo trips and falls, as her two other friends quickly help her up, and continue to run, but the timberwolves were gaining on them. The chase led them deeper and deeper into the heart of the Everfree Forest. "Hurry!" Sweetie Belle shouted. "They're right behind us!" "What do you think I'm trying to do?!" Scootaloo screamed back as she and Apple Bloom continued to gallop with all their might. One of the timberwolves nearly catches up to Apple Bloom, and snaps it's jaws merely inches from the filly's hind legs. "AAAAAAAAHHHHHH!" she screamed at the top of her lungs. "Apple Bloom!!" Sweetie Belle called out to her friend in concern. "I'm alright, just keep runnin'!" the little earth pony filly yelled, but clearly the trio were running out of breath. It was clear that the fillies were getting exhausted. They couldn't keep this up much longer. As they continued to run for dear life with the wolves right on their heels, they eventually run into an area blocked off by a boulder. It was a dead end. "Sweetie Belle, what do we do now?" Scootaloo pleaded, but the unicorn filly had no answer. The three fillies hugged each other tightly, crying, and terrified as they prepared for the end. One of the timberwolves jumped at the girls, but as it was about to pounce on them, something smashes into the wolf, smashing it to pieces. The crusaders, dumbfounded and confused, looked up to see what had saved them. "Bad pooch," Wheeljack said with his faceplate covering his mouth. He deactivates his blaster and draws out his swords. "No treat for you." "WHEELJACK!" Sweetie Belle happily shouted in her squeaky tone. Wheeljack jumps off the boulder. "Any of you other mutts wanna piece of this?" Wheeljack threatened as he waved his swords in a fighting stance. Two more timberwolves lunged at the Autobot, who then, using his swords, smashes them both also to pieces. Another timberwolf tries to go after the crusaders when Wheeljack turns one of his hands into his blaster, and shoots it, as it explodes into a million pieces before it can reach the girls. The whole time, the Cutie Mark Crusaders watched in awe, and cheered the Autobot on. "Go get'em!" Apple Bloom shouted. "So awesome!" Scootaloo yelled. "You're the best!" Sweetie Belle beamed. The last timberwolf made a B-Line for the fillies. "Oh no you don't!" Wheeljack yelled as he intercepts the wolf, and with his giant metal foot, gives a massive kick. The timberwolf is sent flying, then slams into a tree, and shatters into pieces. Seeing that all of the opponents have been beaten, Wheeljack puts away his weapons, and retracts his faceplate, his mouth visible again. He then walks up to the girls with an annoyed look in his optics. "Thank you sooo much for saving us!" Sweetie Belle beamed at the Wrecker. "What are you three doing out here? This place isn't safe for kids to be running around on their own," he said in an authoritative tone. "Well, were were trying to see if we could get our cutie marks in forest navigation, but I guess that's not our special talent," Sweetie Belle said with a sad look on her face. Wheeljack simply sighed, then asked a question. "What's the deal? I mean, why do want these, marks so badly?" "Cutie marks define a pony. They show us what our special talents are," Sweetie Belle explained. "How about you? How did you get your cutie mark?" "What are you talking about?" Wheeljack asked. "I don't have one of those butt marks. I'm an Autobot, not a pony." "The one on your chest. That must be your cutie mark. I guess Autobots have them in different places on their bodies," Scootaloo added. "What, this?" Wheeljack pointed to the Autobot insignia on his chest. "I got this when I became a soldier. It was engraved on me when I enlisted. It's the symbol of the Autobots. Everyone who's a part of our faction has this on some part of their body." "Cool, maybe we can get one too!" Sweetie Belle shouted, as Apple Bloom and Scootaloo nodded in agreement. "I don't think so...." Wheeljack replied. "Look, it ain't safe out here in the woods, and I can't just leave you kids all alone either. You three better come with me for now." Suddenly, the various timberwolf pieces scattered about began to glow in a green aura, and started pulling themselves together. "Whoa, these mongrels can regenerate?" Wheeljack asked in astonishment. With that, Wheeljack transforms into his vehicle mode, and opens his doors. "Hop in, NOW!" he instructed as the fillies enter him. Wheeljack quickly revs his engine, and speeds off before the wolves can fully reassemble themselves. The drive was only a couple of minutes as Wheeljack reaches the Jackhammer, still downed from the crash several days ago. The crusaders exit Wheeljack as he transforms back into robot mode. "WOW!" the three girls say in unison. "Is that really an alien spaceship?" Scootaloo asked with wonder. "You could say that," Wheeljack answered. "That's my ship, the one and only, Jackhammer. Though she still needs repairs." "This is the coolest thing I've ever seen in my LIFE!" Sweetie Belle squeaked. "Can we go inside?" Apple Bloom asked. "Best you do, it'll be shelter for now," Wheeljack replied. As the Cutie Mark Crusaders enter the ship, they were awed and amazed at what they see. The interior was filled with equipment and technology they've never seen before. They begin to jump and hop all over the place. The girls also start to fiddle with all of the nick nacks inside the space craft. "Hey, HEY!" Wheeljack shouted. "What are you kids doing? Get away from that console. Stop, don't touch that!" "This is so cool!" Sweetie Belle beamed as she jumped on one of the computer consoles. "What does this do?" Sweetie Belle pushes a button, then suddenly, from the front of the ship, several laser cannons fire, blowing a tree to bits. "COOL!" the three fillies say in unison. "Scrap...." Wheeljack muttered. "What about this?" Apple Bloom asked as she hits another button. The engines of the Jackhammer ignite, as the entire ship rumbles. "Get away from there!" Wheeljack shouted, but it was too late. The Jackhammer's enjines then sputter, and give out. "You kids just completely fried my thrusters. Now I'm gonna have to start all over with the repairs again!" He scolded the three crusaders. "Oops," Sweetie Belle muttered sadly. "We're really really sorry." "We didn't mean to cause so much trouble," Apple Bloom said with a look of guilt in her eyes. "We just got excited. We wanna make it up to you," Scootaloo replied. "You can make it up to me, by sitting still, and staying out of trouble while I make my repairs," Wheeljack responded as he pulls out a blow torch and began to work on the engine block again. Several minutes pass, as Wheeljack continued the repairs on his engines, as the girls began to become bored. VERY bored. "Uhh, I'm so BORED," Sweetie Belle said as she scoots on the ground, "When is Wheeljack gonna finish his work?" "I don't think it should be that long," Apple Bloom answered as Scootaloo simply shrugged. Then they hear Wheeljack return to the cockpit, with a look of annoyance on his face. "What's wrong?" Sweetie Belle asked. "Ugghh, there's a busted fuel pipe in the anti-gravity diffuser. The space is too small, and I can't reach it to patch it up," he answered. "Hmm..." Sweetie Belle pondered. "Maybe we can help." "Yeah," Scootaloo added. "We should be small enough to reach it." "You serious?" Wheeljack asked, dumbfounded. "I can't let you do that. Too dangerous, plus do you even know how to patch up a leak?" "I helped Applejack fix some of the broken gutter pipes on the roof of the barn before. How hard can it be?" Apple Bloom asked. "A fuel line and a gutter pipe are two different things, kid," Wheeljack said."But I don't think we have any choice. Fine, I'll walk you through it. But if anything happens, I'm pulling you kids out. Outside, Wheeljack then hands some smaller tools to the three fillies. He then shows them the open hatch that leads to the fuel line. "Crawl in there, and it'll take you straight to the line. Once you see the leak, do your best to tighten the pipes, and patch the holes," he instructed. "Got it, Uncle Jackie!" Sweetie Belle saluted. "Uncle Jackie?!" Wheeljack said, bewildered. "Come on girls, let's do this," Sweetie Belle instructed. "CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS! ALIEN SPACESHIP REPAIR WORKERS YAY!" the three yell in unison, much to Wheeljack's audio processor's dismay. The three then enter the hatch, and make their way to the leak. Each of the crusaders had a safety line attached to them, so at the first sign of trouble, Wheeljack could pull them out. "You kids doing alright in there? Any trouble?" Wheeljack yelled into the hatch, but there was no answer. "Hey, Belle, Bloom, Scoots. Speak to me already." Still silence. "Scrap," Wheeljack muttered. "That's it, I'm getting you girls out of there." As Wheeljack was about to pull on the safety line, he felt a tug on it, then the sounds of hooves banging on the side of the hatch, as he then sees the girls as they crawl back out. "We did it! We fixed it!" Sweetie Belle beamed, as the girl give each other hoofbumbs. "Yeah, Sweetie Belle found the leak, and Apple Bloom tightened the pipes with a wrench. Then I used the blowtorch and welded it shut," Scootaloo explained. They then check their flanks....... nothing. "Aww, we're still blank flanks," Apple Bloom complained. "But we did everything right." "I'll be the judge of that," Wheeljack responded as he heads to the cockpit controls. "Here goes nothing." Wheeljack hits several buttons in the cockpit console, as the engines then roar to life. "Well, I'll be..... You girls really did do it! Nice work, kids," Wheeljack complimented them. "Cool! So is this thing ready to fly? 'Cause we wanna ride it!" Scootaloo beamed. "She's not air worthy yet. There's still extensive damage to the navigation system, and the flaps," Wheeljack answered. He then hears a bell sound go off. "Sweet, it's ready!" Wheeljack stated. "Huh? What's ready, Uncle Jackie?" Sweetie Belle asked. "The Energon I've been processing. We need this to survive, and power the Jackhammer. Hmm, looks like the crystals I gathered only had enough to make two canisters," Wheeljack replied. "Huh? I thought Princess Celestia said that nopony was allowed at that mountain because of what that Energon stuff does to unicorn magic," Apple Bloom said with a puzzled look. "Like you said, no ponies. But we Autobots have special permission. After all, we'd starve to death if we didn't harvest any. Optimus spoke to your princess about it," Wheeljack answered. "Looks like I'm gonna need more." He then looks at the fillies. "Well, I can't really leave you here by yourselves, so I guess you're coming with me on an Energon hunt." The three crusaders gave huge grins as they look at the Wrecker happily. "CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS! ENERGON MINERS! YAY!" "What have I gotten myself into?" Wheeljack muttered under his breath. As Wheeljack reaches the mountain in vehicle form, the crusaders sitting inside of him were very excited to have another chance of gaining their cutie marks. As Wheeljack comes to a stop, the girls exit him, as he transforms into robot form. "Stay out of trouble, and don't come into contact with the Energon. Especially you, Belle!" Wheeljack instructed. But as they walk towards the mountain, they see Rarity, mining for several jewels. "Rarity? I thought this place was off limits to ponies," Wheeljack said in puzzlement. "Ugghh, it's the ruffian," Rarity muttered, but then she sees the crusaders with him. "What are you three doing here? You should be back in Ponyville," she said to the crusaders. "We're helping Uncle Jackie find some Energon?" Sweetie Belle nervously answeted her sister. "WHAT? Are you insane?!" Rarity shouted at the Autobot. "You know what that Energon substance will do to a unicorn's magic!" "Yeah I know, but I couldn't just leave them alone at my ship," Wheeljack answered. "Your ship?" Rarity asked. "Long story. But again, why are you here?" Wheeljack asked his own question. "I'm looking for gems. And don't worry, this part of the mountain isn't off limits. There's no Energon in this area," she answered. "Well, since you girls are here, please give me a helping hoof in digging these gems up," Rarity instructed, as the crusaders give a sign of annoyance. "Hmph, why dig, when I can make your job a little faster," Wheeljack said as he walks up to where Rarity was digging. "And what do you think you're doing?" Rarity asked in an annoyed tone. "You'll see," Wheeljack replied as he removes an object attached to his hip. "You all might want to step back, and find some cover," Wheeljack said to the ponies. He then pushes a button on the object and places it on the ground where Rarity was previously digging. GRENADE! He then scoops up all of the ponies in his hands and runs for cover. "FIRE IN THE HOLE!" he shouted as a massive explosion goes off. "Grenades. Works everytime," he smirked. As soon as the dust from the explosion cleared, there was a huge gaping hole in the ground, with gems inside. "That, was awesome!" Sweetie Belle shouted as the other crusaders smiled and nodded in agreement. "You're the coolest, Uncle Jackie!" "Uncle Jackie?" Rarity asked in disbelief. She then sees the exposed gems, and shrieks in terror. "THE GEMS! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!" "What? I blew them outta the ground, right?" Wheeljack asked. "Yes, but you've also DESTROYED them! Just look! They're cracked, broken, and demolished!" "Sheesh, nothing ever seems to satisfy you," Wheeljack muttered. "You, are by far, the most undisciplined, uncivilized, and pig-headed individual I have EVER met! You're even worse than that Prince Blueblood brute!" Rarity hissed. "I'm a Wrecker, it's what I do," Wheeljack replied. "Now if you'll excuse me, I got Energon to mine." Rarity glared at the Autobot as she watches him head toward the mountain side where the Energon was located. "Well, good riddance. Come now girls, I may not have been able to harvest any gems today, no thanks to that ruffian, but I do have to make a stop by Sweet Apple Acres. I've already fixed Applejack hat for her, and I need to deliver it. Come now girls," Rarity said as the fillies follow her to Sweet Apple Acres. Sweet Apple Acres..... Bulkhead was roaring down the Apple Farm in his SUV form, with a plow chained on his front bumper. "YEE HAAWW!" Applejack, without her hat right now of course, shouted from the driver's seat as Big Macintosh sat in the passenger side. "Plowin' sure has gotten easier since you showed up Bulkhead." "Eeyup!" Big Macintosh responded. "Hey, glad I can help. I just want to make it up to you. Especially after you had to pay for all the damages I did in the market place." "Hey, think nothin' of it, big guy. But I do truly appreciate the help. We can always use some extra muscle on the farm!" Applejack cheerily said to the Autobot. "I'm just glad I'm finally doing something right for once. I tend to be a nuisance when I'm not fighting Cons," Bulkhead said. "Now don't you say that about yerself, partner! You're a big help. Heck, I think we can give Big Macintosh here that vacation he's been wantin' for a while now," Applejack stated. "Eeyup!" Big Macintosh said. "You know something, AJ? I'm actually kinda enjoying this. It's a nice break from all the fighting," Bulkhead said to the Apple siblings. "And we're happy to have ya, Bulk!" Applejack replied. Just then they see Rarity arrive with the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Bulkhead then drives up to the others as Applejack and Big Macintosh exit him and unchain the plow from his front. Bulkhead then transforms into robot mode. "Well hello, Applejack," Rarity greeted her friend, "I have your hat right here, and good as new." She give the hat to Applejack who is overjoyed to have it back. "Thanks a lot, Rares! It looks like that horrible tear never happened. Yer the best friend anypony could ever ask for!" She then turns her attention to Apple Bloom and the others. "So how's yer day been?" Applejack asked. "Well, we got to meet another one of the Autobots," Apple Bloom answered. "Oh? Who?" Bulkhead asked. "Wheeljack," Apple Bloom responded. "Heh, good old Jackie!" Bulkhead said as he gave a laugh. "You didn't give him any trouble did you?" "Well, we help him fix a fuel leak in his ship, which was one of the coolest things I've ever seen! I mean, an actual alien spaceship!" Sweetie Belle beamed. "He brought you aboard the Jackhammer. Heh, and he says I'm the one getting soft," Bulkhead teased. "Well, he's still an uncivilized ruffian. He destroyed the gems I was trying to harvest by using some explosive device to blow away a mountain side. The jewels were unsalvagable," Rarity complained. "HA HA! Sounds like Jackie!" Bulkhead laughed. Rarity merely groaned at the remark. "Hey come on, I know Jackie can be a big jerk. I've known him for centuries. He's a huge pain in the rear bumber I'll admit, but I can tell you this.... When scrap hits the fan, and things go south, you can always count on him to help you out. He's saved my worthless can countless times. He never backs down when a friend is in trouble." "I'll believe it when I see it," Rarity muttered. Just then, Wheeljack in vehicular form roars up to the farm. "Speaking of whom, there he is," Bulkhead pointed. Wheeljack transforms into robot form, and walks up to the others. "Howdy, Wheeljack!" Applejack tipped her hat at him. "Hey," Wheeljack responded. "Check it out, Bulk. Freshly processed Energon!" He then tosses a canister to Bulkhead, who catches it. "Just what the doctor ordered! Especially after the workout I just had," Bulkhead said. "Bottoms up, buddy!" Wheeljack stated as he and Bulkhead unscrew the tops, and began chugging the blue liquid down. Then they screw the tops back on. As they both finished, Wheeljack then lets out a loud beltch. Bulkhead, the crusaders, Applejack, and even Big Macintosh began to laugh at him. "I didn't know robots could do that. You're really funny, and I think you're the coolest Autobot, Uncle Jackie!" Sweetie Belle said while smiling at him. "Uncle Jackie, huh?" Bulkhead teased. "And you were making fun of me for being soft." "Well, not only are you uncivilized, but you are also utterly disgusting," Rarity complained again. "What can I say, toots, I'm uncouth," Wheeljack answered. "Well, at least we can agree on one thing. and don't call me TOOTS!" Rarity seethed. "Whatever you say, sunshine!" Wheeljack said with a smirk. "Why I NEVER!" Rarity fumed. "I gotta head back, need to do some more repairs, then harvest some more Energon. See ya later, guys," And with that, Wheeljack transforms and drives away. "Sweetie Belle, I think you should stay away from that Wheeljack character. He's such a horrible influence on one so young," Rarity said in a stern voice. "Why don't you spend some time around Optimus, instead. He's so polite, considerate, and quite charming." "And BORING!" Sweetie Belle responded. "I mean, I think Optimus is cool and all, he's a hero and he's really nice, but all he ever does is go to the library in Canterlot with Twilight. That's no fun at all." "You are hopeless, little sister," Rarity said, shaking her head in disapproval. "Well, we're goin' to the treehouse," Apple Bloom said to the others. "Let's plan on some more crusadin'." "Right behind you!" Sweetie Belle replied as she began to follow her friend, only for them to stop when they see Scootaloo wasn't coming along. "Scootaloo, are you alright?" Apple Bloom asked. "I'm fine, I just need to go and get my scooter. I left it at Sugarcube Corner. I'll be right back," the pegasus replied as she ran towards Ponyville. As Scootaloo walked down the streets of Ponyville towards Sugarcube Corner, she can already see Pinkie Pie, and the Autobot Smokescreen setting up some party decorations. The banner they were hanging up said "Welcome to Ponyville, Autobots!" Scootaloo was looking forward to this party. But as she got closer, a rotten tomato hits her in the head. "Well well well, if it isn't the flightless dodo bird blank flank," Diamond Tiara mocked as Silver Spoon stood next to her laughing. "Great, just who I DIDN'T want to see today," Scootaloo mumbled. "Where do you think you're going, Scootaloser!" Diamond Tiara said. "None of your business," Scootaloo replied as she tried to ignore them, only for Silver Spoon to trip her, as she falls flat on her face. The commotion caught Smokescreen and Pinkie Pie's attention. "Hey, what's going on over there? Isn't that Rainbow Dash's little friend?" Smokescreen asked. "Oh no, it's Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. They're at it again," Pinkie Pie said with a worried look. "What do you mean?" Smokescreen asked. "They're two of the biggest meanies at their school, and pick on ponies who don't have their cutie marks yet," Pinkie Pie explained. "Seriously?!" Smokescreen replied. They then see Diamond Tiara spit on Scootaloo's face. "Ha! You're nothing but a stupid little talentless blank flank. Nopony wants to be around you! Dodo bird freak! You're alone, and you'll ALWAYS be alone," Diamond Tiara sneered as Silver Spoon giggled. "Come on, Silver Spoon, lets book it before she spreads her lameness to us. Later, Scootaloser! Wouldn't wanna be a flightless chicken like you!" "You gotta be KIDDING ME!" Smokescreen scowled, seeing the little pegasus being tormented. The two bullies then wander off, laughing at their victim as they did so. Seeing what had just transpired, Smokescreen was disgusted, and walked over to the pegasus filly. The Autobot was clearly angered with what he just witnessed. Scootaloo had a sad look on her face. Feeling sympathy for her, Smokescreen then crouches down and speaks to the filly. "Hey, Scootaloo, right?" Smokescreen asked as he kneeled in front the filly. "You ok? Are you hurt?" "I'll.... be fine. Just leave me alone," Scootaloo responded. "What? No way, you're not fine. You shouldn't let them treat you like that," Smokescreen said in an annoyed tone. "But there's nothing I can do. Diamond Tiara is the daughter of Filthy Rich. He's the wealthiest pony in all of Ponyville. Everypony believes Diamond Tiara is a little angel, and nopony will believe me if I told them the truth," Scootaloo explained with tears in her eyes. "Still, you gotta stand up for yourself. Where's your self respect?" Smokescreen encouraged her. "How? I don't think anypony can," Scootaloo replied. "She keeps saying that I'm completely useless and untalented because I'm a blank flank, that I have nothing special, and that nopony would ever care about me." Hearing enough of Scootaloo's distress, Smokescreen decided to prove the bullies wrong, by bringing up her positive qualities and traits. "Nothing special.... talentless..... and that no one would care about you..... Is that so?" Smokescreen inquired. "Well she's wrong. You DO have someone that cares, a skill that's unique to you, and something very special that those two jerks don't have, and never will...." "Huh? What are you talking about?" Scootaloo asked. "First off, you look up to Rainbow Dash, right? Like she's your idol and hero if I'm not mistaking?" Smokescreen asked. "Well, yeah," Scootaloo replied. "And Dash has pretty much taken you under her wing as if you were her sister, am I right? Last I checked, that's the definition of someone who cares." The Autobot's words, sank into the filly. "Yeah.... she totally did. Because she's the most awesomest pegasus EVER!" Scootaloo beamed, feeling more uplifted. "I've also seen you ride your scooter. You drive that thing pretty well. The stunts you pulled off are pretty cool in my book, and they're not easy to do. I bet no other pony your age can pull of those feats. Talentless? I think NOT!" the Autobot stated, trying to lift her spirits. "Yeah, you're right," Scootaloo agreed. "Nopony else can ride a scooter like I can." "And another thing," Smokescreen added. "Does D.T. and her lackey, get to hang out with cool giant alien robots that can turn into cars, and shoot lasers?" Smokescreen said in a playful manner. "No.... I guess they don't!" Scootaloo replied, now in a better mood. "Exactly!" Smokescreen smirked. "And I'd say THAT'S something pretty special!" "Thanks, Smokescreen," Scootaloo beamed at the Autobot, "I see why you and Pinkie Pie get along so well. You also know how to make ponies smile." The Autobot in turn, also grins at the young pegasus filly. "You have it pretty good Scoots. You got friends who really care about you. So don't let punks like them drag you down. And I'm always here for ya, if you ever need me. BUT, that doesn't meant I'm gonna let those two off the hook either. I think it's high time I taught little Miss Perfect, and that sidekick of her's, a lesson in humility..... With some SWEET RETRIBUTION!" Smokescreen said with a smirk on his face. "Wait a sec... I don't like where this is going. You Autobots aren't supposed to harm ponies," Scootaloo said with a worried expression. "You can't just shoot them with your lasers." "Who said anything about.... harming?" Smokescreen replied with a wink. "I'm gonna talk to Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash real quick. Don't worry, those bullies will get what's coming to them." Back at Sweet Apple Acres, Bulkhead had instructed Applejack, and Big Macintosh to go ahead and place baskets under every apple tree in the orchard. "So what's this all about?" Granny Smith asked the bot. "Don't worry, I got this," Bulkhead said to the apple matriarch. As soon as he sees that the rest of the apple family have cleared the area, Bulkhead began his plan. "I still don't know what that big lug's got in that metal head of his," Granny Smith said to her grandchildren. "Trust us, Granny. It'll work out," Applejack reassured her. "I'm ready, AJ. Tell the rest of your family to get clear," Bulkhead instructed. "All over it, Bulkhead!" Applejack called out. "Eeyup!" Big Macintosh also responded. "Ok, here goes," Bulkhead said, as he transforms into vehicle mode. He then roars towards the orchard, and as soon as he reaches what was believed to be the center of the orchard, he immediately runs up a ramp that Applejack and the others set up for him, transforms in mid air, turns his right hand into a wrecking ball, and slams it into the ground hard as he lands. The ensuing shockwave created shakes the entire farm, and all of the apple in the trees fall into their baskets. "YEEE HAAAAWWW!" the Apple siblings shout in unison. "Well I'll be a fruitbat chasing a parasprite!" Granny Smith said in disbelief. "This is the best harvest yet!" Applejack shouted happily. "Eeyup!" Big Macintosh responded. Bulkhead then walks up to the others with a smile on his face. "Yer the best, Bulk!" Applejack said, as she hugs his leg. "It was nothing," Bulkhead replied, scratching the back of his head. Just then, they see a familiar big rig, yellow car, another car like it, except blue with flames, a dark red armored truck, and a motorcycle race towards the farm. "Hey, It's Optimus and the others," Bulkhead stated. The rest of the bots then transform into their robot forms. "So how'd your farming day go Bulkhead?" Arcee asked. "Perfect. Kinda fun, too," the Wrecker answered. "I am glad you are finding enjoyment during this intermission of peace, Bulkhead," Optimus said to him. Bumblebee gave a number of buzzes and blips. "Yeah," Arcee responded to the scout. "I heard Wheeljack stopped by with some fresh Energon." "I could sure use some," Hot Shot said. "Yeah, even I'M exhausted from all the mining," Swerve commented. "It's right here," Bulkhead said, as he tosses a canister to each bot. Just then from the other side of the farm, a familiar race car with screaming double 38's on it's doors races towards them, with Rainbow Dash flying above it. As soon as Smokescreen comes to a stop in front of the others, Pinkie Pie, and Scootaloo hop out, laughing like crazy. Rainbow Dash lands next to them, also rolling with laughter. Smokescreen transforms, and also joins in on the laughter. "What's so funny?" Hot Shot asked. "Ok, what did you guys do?" Arcee asked, slightly annoyed. "Oh man, I can't wait to show this to Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle," Scootaloo giggled, her eyes tearing up from laughing so hard. "What's that?" Bulkhead asked. Scootaloo shows the rest of the bots and the present apple family members a photo. It was a photo, of Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon, struggling to get out of a pit of mud. Applejack couldn't help but give a light chuckle, while Granny Smith and Big Macintosh looked on in confusion. Hot Shot was laughing hard, as was Swerve. "I fail to see the amusement of this photo," Optimus stated. "Long story short," Smokescreen explained. "These two girls in the picture? Bullies. Don't let their cute appearance fool you, they're the biggest jerks at their school. All they ever do is terrorize Scoots here and her friends. So I decided to give them a taste of their own medicine." "Yeah," Rainbow Dash added. "I never took old Smokey here to be a prankster. We should hang out more." Arcee simply rolled her optics. "That'll teach them to be big meanies!" Pinkie Pie added. "So what exactly did you do?" Bulkhead asked. (We see a vision of Scootaloo's explaination) "Well, Smokescreen dug a huge hole in the school playground, then Rainbow Dash took a raincloud and filled it with water. It soon mixed with the dirt, and turned into mud. Finally, Pinkie Pie covered it with grass, twigs, and leaves to hide it. As soon as Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon walked over.....SPLASH!" Scootaloo explained (ends vision by mud splashing to the screen), then began laughing hard again. "HAHAHAHAHAHA, that IS good!" Swerve said as he and Hot Shot kept laughing. As the pranksters continued to enjoy themselves, two armored pegasi decended to the farm. "Huh? The Royal Guard?" Applejack asked. As soon as the guards reached the group, one of them stepped forward. "Which one of you is the Autobot, Smokescreen?" he asked. "Uh, who wants to know?" Smokescreen asked. "Ah, so you're the culprit. I have something to give you," the guard said as he pulls out a parchment of paper. "You are hereby ordered to pay for the damages you have done to the local school grounds by order of the Mayor," the guard said as he read the scroll. "WHAT?! This is just a payback prank, Rrght?!" Smokescreen yelled. "Oh no," Pinkie Pie gasped. "Uh oh," Swerve muttered as Hot Shot was shocked to hear this. Rainbow Dash simply whistled and looked into another direction, while Scootaloo was also shocked at this event. "You must pay for the damages, or we will be forced to arrest you. I'm sorry, but these are the orders," the guard explained. "Optimus, there's gotta be something you can do, right?" Smokescreen pleaded with the Autobot leader. "I am afraid I cannot. You have clearly broken one of the laws of this world. And therefore face the consequences. I will, however, speak with the princess about this matter. Until then, you must find a way, to reimburse the local school." "You reap what you sew," Arcee smirked. "This is payback for that dressup doll remark the from other day, isn't it Cee?" Smokescreen shot her a look. Arcee simply giggled under her breath. "......Scrap!" Chapter 11Today was the day. It was a day Twilight had been looking forward to for several months now. Although, most of her friends would not be joining her this time around, she was determined to make it count this time around instead of the disaster that happened the last time she went. Yes, it was indeed, the time for the Grand Galloping Gala. And she would not be alone. Optimus Prime, leader of the Autobots, had agreed to accompany her to the event. Of course, I'm needed to attend. Unlike past years, this time, the Gala would be held during the day time. Twilight and I were told the main reasoning for this was due to several dignitaries from other kingdoms would be in attendance. Princess Celestia had invited them in hopes to spread and promote peace across all of Equestria. In Ponyville, Optimus Prime pulled up to Twilight's treehouse in vehicle form, he sees Spike standing outside, waiting for him. "Hello, my young friend," Optimus addressed the dragon. "Hi, Optimus. Twilight will be ready in just a few moments. Man, I can't believe it's time for the Gala again. Except, I'm not going this time. I'll be here, tending the books," Spike replied. "I didn't exactly have a good time the last I went, but Twilight's been giddy as a filly all day." "This must be a very important event for her," Optimus said. "I certainly hope, she will enjoy herself." "Yeah, she's been wanting to share all the lessons in friendship she's learned over this year with Princess Celestia, personally," Spike replied. "I'm sure she'll have a better time around, especially with you there with her." Optimus would be smiling at Spike if he were in robot form. They then both hear the door to the library open. Twilight had exited, and was wearing her formal dress from her coronation several months back. "OPTIMUS!" she cheerfully called to the Autobot. "You're here! I'm so happy you can make it." "Of course, my young friend. I look forward to this meeting, as I have hopes it will help promote peace and understanding to all races on your world," Optimus said to the alicorn. Twilight, hearing his words, renewed her great respect for the Prime. "Thank you, for being so understanding," Twilight then continued. "So, umm..... How do I look?" She began to grow slightly nervous. "You look, rather pleasing to the optics, young lady," Optimus complimented as he opens his door. "Your chariot awaits." "You, really think so?" Twilight asked, her cheeks burning red. "Affirmative. I am sure you will perhaps, make the males of your species, as they say, turn their heads. You are a princess, after all." Twilight's face was now beet red. For a stern and nearly emotionless robot, Optimus knew how to compliment a girl. Twilight then climbs inside of Optimus's open door, as he then closes it. "We shall see you again soon, young Spike," Optimus said as Twilight waved at him from the rolled down window. "Stay out of trouble. I'll be back home tonight," Twilight called to the dragon, as Optimus began driving towards Canterlot and Spike waved goodbye. As they got closer to the capital, they can see the giant force field encasing all of Canterlot. No doubt, Shining Armor taught the spell to other unicorn guards. Several unicorn guards recognized Optimus in his vehicle form. They gave clearance to the Autobot, and opened a small hole in the force field bubble to allow him access. As Optimus drove in the streets of Canterlot, Twilight could see many ponies, from different races, from Pegasi, to Earth Ponies, to Unicorns, and even several Crystal Ponies from the Crystal Empire, lining up to enter the royal palace where the Gala was being held. She even saw some non-ponies, such as Horses from Saddle Arabia, Griffons, from the Griffon Kingdom, and Minotaurs, from the Minotaur Republic. All of them were dressed in formal attire. "I'm so excited! This is something I've been looking forward to for the past few months. Too bad the girls couldn't make it, but I'm very happy you're here, Optimus," Twilight said to the Autobot as they pull up to the castle. Twilight exits him as Optimus transforms into robot mode. The duo began to approach the castle. This was it, the Grand Galloping Gala, Twilight was going to make sure this year's was THE BEST ONE EVER! As Optimus walked behind Twilight, many of the guests began to stare in awe at his presence. They had heard about him, but some had never seen him in person, especially the foreigners like the Griffons, and Minotaurs. Finally, they reach the gate of the palace, where they could see both Princess Celestia, and Princess Cadance greeting the guests. As Twilight passed by the check in, she gives her ticket to the guard. Optimus then follows suit. "Umm....t....ticket, sir?" the guard nervously stammered, clearly intimidated by Optimus's sheer size. "I have it right here," Optimus says as he kneels on one knee and in his massive palm, lay the golden ticket. The unicorn guard then levitates it from his hand, and collects it. "Yes.....p...pp.... please enjoy yourself," the guard, still nervous at Optimus' presence, waved him in. "Well, that was rather awkward," Twilight said as she saw the entire event happen. They are then met by Princess Celestia and Cadence. "Twilight Sparkle, my most faithful student, and Optimus Prime, our most honored guest. I'm so glad you can make it," Princess Celestia greeted the two. "I'm glad to be here too, Princess Celestia," Twilight bowed. "I have so much to share with you." "It is an honor to be invited to such an occasion," Optimus answered as he kneeled on one knee. "Your brother and I are always happy to see you," Cadence said as she and Twilight embrace. "SUNSHINE SUNSHINE LADY BUGS AWAKE, CLAP YOUR HOOVES AND DO A LITTLE SHAKE!" they cheered together. "I see you're wearing the dress from your coronation. It still looks absolutely beautiful on you," Cadence complimented. "Thank you, Cadence. Now, let's get to the festivities," Twilight replied. The four then make their way into the castle. Little do they know, Soundwave was hovering in vehicle form over the city. He couldn't enter due to the force field erected, but he can still see and hear all that was happening. The Nemesis was fully repaired, as it soared high in the skies of Equestria, making it's way toward Canterlot. "Well, Knockout, it appears you finally did something right. Looks like I won't have to scrap you for spare parts," Megatron stated to the Decepticon medic. "Yes, Lord Megatron," Knockout replied, with a tinge of fear in his voice. "But if I may ask..... was it wise to let that Chrysalis creature and her minions to disembark on their own to the capitol? I don't trust any of those organics." "Rest assured, Knockout. Soundwave is monitoring all activities. He may not be able to enter the city, but he is still able to observe all events, as they happen. If there is any treachery from Chrysalis, we will know," Megatron answered. "My forces are ready, Lord Megatron," Dreadwing saluted. "The armada is fully prepped." "Excellent, Dreadwing. Once their force field has been brought down, the Seeker armada will attack. And have the Insecticons ready for backup," Megatron ordered. "At once, my liege," Dreadwing bowed. He then exits the bridge. "Lord Megatron," a Vehicon called to him. "We have some new information." "Yes, what is it?" Megatron asked. "While Soundwave is monitoring the capitol city, Laserbeak is still spying on the small town where the Autobots are staying at. It looks like they're all seperated in different locations. Some aren't even in the town, but in the forest next to it," the Vehicon reported. "He's right, Lord Megatron," Thundercracker replied. "They're all over the place for us to keep track with." "Hmm, then perhaps it is time, to make our presence known to this world," Megatron stated. "Since the Autobots have separated themselves from another, this will give us a tactical advantage." "Divide and Conquer!" Knockout boastfully said. "Indeed," Megatron added. "Knockout, contact Soundwave, and have him return to the ship. Tell him to have Laserbeak take over his surveillance of the capital. I have a task for him, Dreadwing, Wildrider, Rumble, Frenzy, AND you!" "As you wish, Lord Megatron," Knockout bowed. "Victory over the Autobots, and our return to Earth, will soon be at hand. Optimus Prime, and these Ponies, have no idea, what lies ahead for them." As Twilight entered the crowded main palace ballroom, she had apparently lost track of the princesses, and Optimus. She couldn't understand how that happened, especially with his sheer size. But she did find me. I was wearing the same uniform from the last Gala. "Vincent!" she called. "Hey, Twilight!" I called as we ran to each other and hugged. "I see your wearing your coronation dress." "And I see you're wearing the same uniform from the last Gala," Twilight added. "You look good." "Thanks. But not as beautiful as you." Twilight blushes at my compliment. "Optimus here, too?" I asked. "Yeah, but somehow I lost him, Princess Celestia, and Cadence." "Oh. Well, I'm sure you'll find them again, especially Prime," I said as she chuckled. Then as we walked down, there was Princess Luna at the center of the ballroom. "Princess Luna!" Twilight called out to her. "Ah, young Twilight Sparkle, and Lieutenant Vincent. Good to see you two again," Luna replied to us. "Likewise," Twilight said. "I know you're slightly upset about the Gala happening during the day, but I'm glad you're still enjoying yourself." "Yes, of course I am," Luna responded. "I will, get over it. Besides, the fun is to be had." Hearing this, Twilight smiled. She was happy to hear that the princess of the Night was at least still enjoying herself. Twilight's eyes then catch another familiar figure. Her brother, Shining Armor. "BBBFF!" she called to him. "Twily! Great to see you again. You too, Vince. Where's the rest of your friends?" he asked. "Um, they couldn't make it. It just doesn't feel the same without them. But at least Optimus came with me. I lost sight of him however, and I don't know how I did," Twilight said, with a disappointed tone. "Hey, don't worry about it. You'll run into him again. After all, he's hard to miss," Shining Armor joked, as Twilight smiled at him. "Hehehe, that's what I told her," I chuckled. We then hear what sounded like trumpets going off. The lights dim, and the spotlights then point to the red curtained stage at the center of the room. "You're just in time, Twily. The first show is about to start," Shining Armor said. "Show? There's a show this year?" Twilight asked. "Yep. Something to keep the dignitaries from the other kingdoms entertained," Shining Armor answered. "Oh yeah. You're not gonna believe who's doing the show," I dryly said to my friend. As the spotlights continued to point at the stage, a Royal Guard stepped up to the podium. "And now, fillies, and gentlecolts, I bring you our first show of the day. Behold the stage magic, of THE GREAT AND POWEFUL TRIXIE!" the guard announced as the curtains rise, and a number of sparklers and small fireworks go off. The curtains reveal, a silver maned, blue unicorn, with a purple wizard's hat and cape. A unicorn Twilight and I knew all too well. It's Trixie alright... "Trixie???" Twilight gasped in confusion. "What's she doing here?" "Tell me about it," I muttered. "You know her Twily?" Shining Armor asked. "Princess Celestia hired her to be our entertainer." "She also has an ego the size of the moon. She also nearly became a dictator in Ponyville. But I guess I can't blame her for that one. She was under the corruption of the Alicorn Amulet. Trixie seemed to have learned from that incident. However, I still can't help but feel somewhat nervous around her." Twilight explained to him. All of this flew over Shining Armor's head. He didn't know what was going on. "It's complicated, sir," I said to the prince. "Prepare to be dazzled, by the magical show of the Great and Powerful Trixie!" Trixie called as more lights exploded around her. Her horn lights up, and a bouquet of flowers materializes out of no where and hovers in front of her. The crowd gives an applause, while Twilight simply sighs. "Well, hopefully she won't brag too much," Twilight said as she tried to enjoy herself. "Still, where's Optimus?" Trixie then levitates her hat in the air, turns it upside down, and flowers bloom from it. She then blows on the flowers, and they all turn into bubbles, as they fly into the crowd. There were more cheers and applauses, especially from the Griffons, Minotaurs, and Horses present. "And now, the Great and Powerful Trixie, will need a volunteer," she said as multiple hooves, hands, and claws rose. "How about you? Ah, yes, the prince of the Crystal Empire!" Trixie stated, pointing at Shining Armor. "Me?" Shining Armor asked. "Him?" Twilight also asked. "Twilight Sparkle? Well, I suppose the Great and Powerful Trixie shouldn't be surprised to see you here. I know Vincent's suppose to be here. But, as you can see, I'm simply a traveling magician now, and a showmare. I promise, I'm not up to anything." She then took a closer look at her former rival. "Umm, since when did you have wings?" Trixie said. "Haven't you heard?" Twilight answered her. "I'm a princess now." "WHAT??!!" Trixe shouted in astonishment "How, wha... when??" "It was announced to the entire kingdom, I'm surprised you didn't hear about it. Anyways, I would love to see your show," Twilight answered. Trixie was a little dumbfounded, and jealous that Twilight Sparkle had one-upped her again. But she decided to let it go. Her last attempt of trying to get even ended extremely badly. Trixie had learned her errors, the hard way. But she still couldn't help but feel her pride being wounded again. "Now, as for my volunteer, this way, prince of the Crystal Empire," she directed Shining Armor to the stage. "Trixie, if anything happens to my brother..." Twilight began to say. "Your brother? HE'S YOUR BROTHER?!" the showmare shouted. She then regains her composure after having another revelation drop on her. "Don't worry, he'll be safe, I assure you." "Well, you better get going.... prince," Twilight teased her brother. "Here goes nothing," Shining Armor said as he approached the stage "Please, stand right there.... Perfect!" Trixie instructed as Shiny stood in the middle of the stage. "Now for my next trick," Trixie then takes off her hat, and sticks her right hoof into it. From the top of the stage, a giant blue hoof came down, and scooped up Shining Armor. "WHAT THE??!!!" he shouted as it pulled him upwards. The hoof and the prince then disappear. "WHAT DID YOU DO TO MY BROTHER?!" Twilight angrily shouted. "Don't worry. Like Trixie said, he's perfectly fine," Trixie answered. She then pulls her hoof out of the hat, and holding what appears to be a miniature Shining Armor. She then places him on the ground. He looks up at the giant Trixie, confused. "Now, ALAKAZAM!!!" Trixie shouted as she shoots a pink beam from her horn at Shining Armor. As the smoke cleared, Shining Armor was now back to his normal size. The crowd gave a huge cheer as they clearly enjoyed the show. "Thank you, thank you all," Trixie said as she stood on her hind legs. "The Great and Powerful Trixie always enjoys putting on a great show to entertain others." 1 Chapter 11 PreviousChapters Next Today was the day. It was a day Twilight Sparkle had been looking forward to for several months now. Although, most of her friends would not be joining her this time around, she was determined to make it count this time around instead of the disaster that happened the last time she went. Yes, it was indeed, the time for the Grand Galloping Gala. And she would not be alone. Optimus Prime, leader of the Autobots, had agreed to accompany her to the event. Unlike past years, this time the Gala would be held during the day time. Twilight was told the main reasoning for this was due to several dignitaries from other kingdoms would be in attendance. Princess Celestia had invited them in hopes to spread and promote peace across all of Equestria. In Ponyville, Optimus Prime pulled up to Twilight's treehouse in vehicle form, he sees Spike standing outside, waiting for him. "Hello, my young friend." Optimus addressed the dragon. "Hi, Optimus. Twilight will be ready in just a few moments. Man, I can't believe it's time for the Gala again. Except, I'm not going this time. I'll be here, tending the books." Spike replied. "I didn't exactly have a good time the last I went, but Twilight's been giddy as a filly all day." "This must be a very important event for her." Optimus said, "I certainly hope, she will enjoy herself." "Yeah, She's been wanting to share all the lessons in friendship she's learned over this year with Princess Celestia, personally." Spike replied, "I'm sure she'll have a better time around, especially with you there with her." Optimus would be smiling at Spike if he were in robot form. They then both hear the door to the library open. Twilight Sparkle had exited, and wearing a formal dress from her coronation several months back. "OPTIMUS!" Twilight cheerfully called to the Autobot, "You're here! I'm so happy you can make it." "Of course, my young friend. I look forward to this meeting, as I have hopes it will help promote peace and understanding to all races on your world." Optimus said to the Alicorn. Twilight, hearing his words, renewed her great respect for the Prime. "Thank you, for being so understanding." Twilight then continued, "So, umm..... How do I look?" She began to grow slightly nervous. "You look, rather pleasing to the optics, young lady." Optimus complimented, as he opens his door. "Your chariot awaits." "You, really think so?" Twilight asked, her cheeks burning red. "Affirmative. I am sure you will perhaps, make the males of your species, as they say, turn their heads. You are a Princess, after all." Twilight's face was now beet red. For a stern and nearly emotionless robot, Optimus knew how to compliment a girl. Twilight then climbs inside of Optimus' open door, as he then closes it. "We shall see you again soon, young Spike." Optimus said, as Twilight waved at him from the rolled down window. "Stay out of trouble. I'll be back home tonight." Twilight called to the dragon, as Optimus began driving towards Canterlot. As they got closer to the capital, they can see the giant force field encasing all of Canterlot. No doubt, Shining Armor taught the spell to other unicorn guards. Several unicorn guards recognized Optimus in his vehicle form. They gave clearance to the Autobot, and opened a small hole in the force field bubble to allow him access. As Optimus drove in the streets of Canterlot, Twilight could see many ponies, from different races, from Pegasi, to Earth Ponies, to Unicorns, and even several Crystal Ponies from the Crystal Empire, lining up to enter the royal palace where the Gala was being held. She even saw some non-ponies, such as Horses from Saddle Arabia, Griffons, from the Griffon Kingdom, and Minotaurs, from the Minotaur Republic. All of them were dressed in formal attire. "I'm so excited! This is something I've been looking forward to for the past few months. Too bad the girls couldn't make it, but I'm very happy you're here, Optimus." Twilight said to the Autobot, as they pull up to the castle. Twilight exits him, as Optimus transforms into robot mode. The duo began to approach the castle. This was it, The Grand Galloping Gala, Twilight was going to make sure this year's was THE BEST ONE EVER! As Optimus walked behind Twilight, many of the guests began to stare in awe at his presence. They had heard about him, but some had never seen him in person, especially the foreigners like the Griffons, and Minotaurs. Finally, they reach the gate of the palace, where they could see both Princess Celestia, and Princess Cadance greeting the guests. As Twilight passed by the check in, she gives her ticket to the guard. Optimus then follows suit. "Umm....t....ticket, sir?" The guard nervously stammered, clearly intimidated by Optimus' sheer size. "I have it right here." Optimus says as he kneels on one knee and in his massive palm, lay the golden ticket. The unicorn guard then levitates it from his hand, and collects it. "Yes.....p...pp....Please enjoy yourself." The guard, still nervous at Optimus' presence, waved him in. "Well, that was rather awkward." Twilight said as she saw the entire event happen. They are then met by Princess Celestia and Cadance. "Twilight Sparkle, my most faithful student, and Optimus Prime, our most honored guest. I'm so glad you can make it." Princess Celestia greeted the two. "I'm glad to be here too, Princess Celestia," Twilight bowed, "I have so much to share with you." "It is an honor to be invited to such an occasion." Optimus answered, as he kneeled on one knee. "Your brother and I are always happy to see you." Cadance said as she and Twilight embrace. "SUNSHINE SUNSHINE LADY BUGS AWAKE, CLAP YOUR HOOVES AND DO A LITTLE SHAKE!" They cheered together. "I see you're wearing the Dress from your coronation. It still looks absolutely beautiful on you." Cadence complimented. "Thank you, Cadence. Now, let's get to the festivities." Twilight replied. The four then make their way into the castle. Little do they know, Soundwave was hovering in vehicle form over the city. He couldn't enter due to the force field erected, but he can still see and hear all that was happening. The Nemesis was fully repaired, as it soared high in the skies of Equestria, making it's way toward Canterlot. "Well, Knockout, It appears you finally did something right. Looks like I won't have to scrap you for spare parts." Megatron stated to the Decepticon medic. "Yes, Lord Megatron." Knockout replied, with a tinge of fear in his voice. "But if I may ask..... Was it wise to let that Chrysalis creature and her minions to disembark on their own to the capital? I don't trust any of those organics." "Rest assured, Knockout, Soundwave is monitoring all activities. He may not be able to enter the city, but he is still able to observe all events, as they happen. If there is any treachery from Chrysalis, We will know." Megatron answered. "My forces are ready, Lord Megatron." Dreadwing saluted. "The armada is fully prepped." "Excellent, Dreadwing. Once their force field has been brought down, the Seeker Armada, will attack. And have the Insecticons ready for backup." Megatron ordered. "At once, my liege." Dreadwing bowed. He then exits the bridge. "Lord Megatron." A Vehicon called to him, "We have some new information." "Yes, what is it?" Megatron asked. "While Soundwave is monitoring the capital city, Laserbeak is still spying on the small town where the Autobots were staying at. It looks like they're all seperated in different locations. Some aren't even in the town, but in the forest next to it." The Vehicon reported. "Hmm, then perhaps it is time, to make our presence known to this world." Megatron stated. "Since the Autobots have separated themselves from another, this will give us a tactical advantage." "Divide and Conquer!" Knockout boastfully said. "Indeed." Megatron added. "Knockout, contact Soundwave, and have him return to the ship. Tell him to have Laserbeak take over his surveillance of the capital. I have a task for him, Dreadwing, AND you!." "As you wish, Lord Megatron." Knockout bowed. "Victory over the Autobots, and our return to Earth, will soon be at hand. Optimus Prime, and these Ponies, have no idea, what lies ahead for them." As Twilight entered the crowded main palace ballroom, she had apparently lost track of the princesses, and Optimus. She couldn't understand how that happened, especially with his sheer size. But she then sees Princess Luna, standing in the center of the room. "Princess Luna!" Twilight called out to her. "Ah, Young Twilight Sparkle. Good to see you again." Luna replied to the young princess. "Likewise. I know you're slightly upset about the Gala happening during the day, but I'm glad you're still enjoying yourself." "Yes, of course I am." Princess Luna responded, "I will, get over it. Besides, the fun is to be had." Hearing this, Twilight smiled. She was happy to hear that the Princess of the Night was at least still enjoying herself. Twilight's eyes then catch another familiar figure. Her brother, Shining Armor. "BBBFF!" she called to him. "Twily! Great to see you again. Where's the rest of your friends?" he asked. "Um, they couldn't make it. It just doesn't feel the same without them. But at least Optimus came with me. I lost sight of him however, and I don't know how I did." Twilight said, with a disappointed tone. "Hey, don't worry about it. You'll run into him again. After all, he's hard to miss." Shining Armor joked, as Twilight smiled at him. They then hear what sounded like trumpets going off. The lights dim, and the spotlights then point to the red curtained stage at the center of the room. "You're just in time, Twily. The first show is about to start." Shining Armor said. "Show? There's a show this year?" Twilight asked. "Yep. Something to keep the dignitaries from the other kingdoms entertained." Shining Armor answered. As the spotlights continued to point at the stage, a royal guard stepped up to the podium. "And now, Fillies, and Gentlecolts, I bring you our first show of the day. Behold the stage magic, of THE GREAT AND POWEFUL TRIXIE!" The guard announced as the curtains rise, and a number of sparklers and small fireworks go off. The curtains reveal, a silver maned, blue unicorn, with a purple wizard's hat and cape. A unicorn Twilight knew all too well. "Trixie???" Twilight gasped in confusion. "What's she doing here?" "You know her Twily?" Shining Armor asked. "Princess Celestia hired her to be our entertainer." "She also has an ego the size of the moon. She also nearly became a dictator in Ponyville. But I guess I can't blame her for that one. She was under the corruption of the Alicorn Amulet. Trixie seemed to have learned from that incident. However, I still can't help but feel somewhat nervous around her." Twilight explained to her brother. All of this flew over Shining Armor's head. He didn't know what was going on. "Prepare, to be dazzled, by the magical show of the Great and Powerful Trixie!" Trixie called as more lights exploded around her. Her horn lights up, and a bouquet of flowers materializes out of no where and hovers in front of her. The crowd gives an applause, while Twilight simply sighs. "Well, hopefully she won't brag too much." Twilight said, as she tried to enjoy herself. "Still, where is Optimus?" Trixie then levitates her hat in the air, turns it upside down, and flowers bloom from it. She then blows on the flowers, and they all turn into bubbles, as they fly into the crowd. There were more cheers and applauses, especially from the Griffons, Minotaurs, and Horses present. "And now, the Great and Powerful Trixe, will need a volunteer." She said, as multiple hooves, hands, and claws rose. "How about you? Ah, yes, the Prince of the Crystal Empire!" Trixie stated, pointing at Shining Armor. "Me?" Shining Armor asked. "Him?" Twilight also asked. "Twilight Sparkle? Well, I suppose the Great and Powerful Trixe shouldn't be surprised to see you here. But, as you can see, I'm simply a traveling magician now, and a showmare. I promise, I'm not up to anything." She then took a closer look at her former rival. "Umm, since when did you have wings?" "Haven't you heard?" Twilight answered her, "I'm a princess now." "WHAT??!!" Trixe shouted in astonishment "How, wha...when??" "It was announced to the entire kingdom, I'm surprised you didn't hear about it." Twilight answered her. Trixie was a little dumbfounded, and jealous that Twilight Sparkle had one-upped her again. But she decided to let it go. Her last attempt of trying to get even ended extremely badly. Trixie had learned her errors, the hard way. But she still couldn't help but feel her pride being wounded again. "Now, as for my volunteer, this way, Prince of the Crystal Empire." She directed Shining Armor to the stage. "Trixe, if anything happens to my brother..." Twilight began to say. "Your brother? HE'S YOUR BROTHER?!" the showmare shouted. Trixie then regains her composure after having another revelation drop on her, "Don't worry, he'll be safe, I assure you." "Well, you better get going.... Prince." Twilight teased her brother. "Here goes nothing." Shining Armor said, as he approched the stage. "Please, stand right there.... Perfect!" Trixie instructed as Shining stood in the middle of the stage. "Now for my next Trick." Trixie then takes off her hat, and sticks her right hoof into it. From the top of the stage, a giant blue hoof came down, and scooped up Shining Armor. "WHAT THE??!!!" He shouted as it pulled him upwards. The hoof, and the prince then disappear. "WHAT DID YOU DO TO MY BROTHER?!" Twilight angrily shouted. "Don't worry, Like Trixie said, he's perfectly fine." Trixie answered. She then pulls her hoof out of the hat, and holding what appears to be a miniature Shining Armor. She then places him on the ground. He looks up at the giant Trixie, confused. "Now, ALAKAZAM!!!" Trixie shouted, as she shoots a pink beam from her horn at Shining Armor. As the smoke cleared, Shining Armor was now back to his normal size. The crowd gave a huge cheer as they clearly enjoyed the show. "Thank you, thank you all. The Great and Powerful Trixie always enjoys putting on a great show to entertain others." She then gives Twilight a smug look. "Enjoy that?.... Princess?....." Twilight merely rolled her eyes to the remark as Shining Armor walked back to her side. "Wow, that was weird," he said, still scratching his head, trying to figure out what kind of spell that was. "You gotta admit, that was pretty impressive," I added. "Now then," the guard at the podium stated. "It is time for another special moment. Please give a warm welcome to Princess Celestia, and a great guest of honor she has personally invited." All eyes were now at the main doors, as the spotlight shone on it. As it slowly opened, Princess Celestia stepped through, next to her, was none other, than the Autobot leader himself, Optimus Prime. At first, there was silence, as the guests were awed by Optimus's presence, then they began to clap, and then cheer. "Thank you all," Princess Celestia said. "This is indeed a great moment for our world." "I am honored and humbled by your reception," Optimus addressed everyone. "My name, is Optimus Prime, And it is a great pleasure for me to be here. To help promote peace to all. I know that many of you are all different races, but to me, I see you all as equals. Be you Ponies, Griffons, Minotaurs, Horses, or even one such as myself, a Cybertronian, for to me, you are all magnificent in your own special way." Hearing this, the crowd gave another applause. Twilight's admiration for Optimus never felt stronger. I was just applauding as well. "But, I thought I was the main attraction!" Trixie complained. "What was that?" Twilight teased and I glared at Trixie with a low dog growl. "N... Nothing!" Trixie gave a nervous smile. "I have invited all of you from different kingdoms to help promote peace, equality, and friendship amongst all. Let us all make this, the best Grand Galloping Gala ever!" Princess Celestia addressed the guests as they all cheered. As Smokescreen and Pinkie Pie walked down the streets of Ponyville, Pinkie was too busy saying "Hi" to literally everyone in town. "You sure have a lot of friends, Pinkie," Smokescreen said to the party pony. "Of course!" Pinkie squealed, "I know everypony in Ponyville, and everypony is my friend!" Smokescreen smiled, as they continued to walk. "We'll have that party ready soon. Say, where's Optimus? I haven't seen him all day. He back in Canterlot?" Smokescreen asked. "YUP! He's at the Gala with Twilight and Princess Celestia. Some formal ball. It's too boring for my taste," Pinkie answered. "Optimus? At a Ball? Now I've heard everything. Still, it would be funny to see," Smokescreen laughed. The two friends shared a fit of laughter and jokes, until Pinkie Pie heard something fly overhead. "Hey, what's that roaring sound?" Pinkie Pie asked. "Huh?" Smokescreen was confused as he also heard the same noise. It sounded familiar to him. He then looks up, and sees what appears to be a number of what appears to be flying cars with wings. No wheels. "What? No.... Seekers? Here? It can't be..... THEY CAN'T BE HERE!" Smokescreen yelled in terror. "How is this even possible?" "Smokescreen, what's wrong?" Pinkie asked in concern. "The Cons, THEY'RE HERE!" Smokescreen yelled. "If Megatron and the Decepticons are in Equestria, then you're in danger. We're ALL in danger!" Smokescreen immediately transforms into vehicle mode, and opens his door. "Get in, we gotta find the others. We have to warn them... NOW!" Smokescreen yelled as Pinkie hopped in and he closes his door and drives off. Chapter 15Princess Celestia slowly began to open her eyes, as she woke up. Her body was aching and sore. For a second, she wasn't able to tell where she was. The last thing she remembered was the Decepticon and Changeling attack on Canterlot, being defeated by Megatron, and her ordering the evacuation of her capital. As the princess began to observe hers surroundings more so, she realized she was imprisoned, and encased within a large green cocoon. Very similar to what happened during Shining Armor's and Princess Cadance's wedding with the previous Changeling attack. Through the one transparent window like part of the cocoon, she can see that she was also inside a dark, large, metal room. A room she had never seen before. Next to her own cocoon, she spots another one. Through the window like spot, she could see the occupant of the other. It was none other than her own sister, Princess Luna, inside and still unconcious. "LUNA!" she called out to her sister, but to no avail. The princess of the night, did not awaken. "Luna, oh dear sister," Celestia lamented, "please be alive. Please wake up." "Ah, so you're finally up," a mocking voice could be heard. Queen Chrysalis came into view, as she approached the imprisoned sun princess. "You!" Celestia angrily stated. "What have you done to her? Where am I?" "Why, you're aboard the Decepticon ship, in one of their brigs. I took the liberty of encasing both you and Luna in cocoons, as it was able to hold you the last time we encountered each other," Chrysalis gloated. "And as I recall, it was a quite effective tactic. As for your sister, don't worry. She's still alive and in hibernation, for now." "You WON'T get away with this, Chrysalis! Twilight Sparkle, her friends, and the Autobots will stop you." "Oh, I don't think so, my dear Celestia," Chrysalis taunted. "For you see, Optimus Prime has also been taken prisoner, along with three other Autobots. The rest of the Bots, have been destroyed. And as an added bonus, we even have poor, sweet, Rarity also a prisoner aboard this vessel. Somewhere anyway." Celestia's eyes widen as she listened to Chrysalis' explaination. "You're lying!" the princess responded. "Then why don't you see for yourself," Chrysalis said, as she flies up to a set of buttons on the wall, and presses one. Suddenly, a viewscreen monitor turns on, showing Bulkhead, Swerve, Arcee, and Optimus Prime, imprisoned in another brig, strapped to the wall, with stasis cuffs. Celestia couldn't believe her eyes. She felt her heart skip a beat. The princess never imagined that her new and powerful friends could be defeated, and taken prisoner. Princess Celestia, was at a loss. "A marvelous piece of technology, if I say so myself," Queen Chrysalis said, while fawning over the Cybertronian tech. "So what now? Are you going to simply imprison me here for the rest of my days?" Celestia angrily said. "Oh Megatron and I have something special planned, for both you AND Prime. Not to mention, the lovely Rarity will be sacrificed, for their science." The princess could feel her blood run cold at the statement of Rarity's fate. "No, please!" Celestia begged. "You can do anything you want to me, but release poor Rarity." "Fool!" Chrysalis replied, "I can't risk an Element bearer to usurp my plans. And what better way to have somepony else to deal with her, and not get my own hooves dirty." "You fiend. I WILL find a way to free myself, and the others, and bring you down," Celestia said, with determination. "You'll try, and you'll fail. It's over," Chrysalis gloated. Suddenly, the door of the brig opens, and another figure steps into the room. As Chrysalis and Celestia look up to see who had entered, Megatron simply eyes the two, as he calmly walks up to them. "Chrysalis," the Decepticon leader addressed the Changeling queen, "Leave us. I have some rather, important matters to discuss with the princess." "Surely you don't expect me to leave you alone with her," Chrysalis replied. "I said LEAVE US!" Megatron commaned again. "You are aboard MY ship, and therefore, I am in command! Now take your leave, and vacate immediately!" Chrysalis, seeing that Megatron will not be detered, simply nodded. "Very well, Oh gracious Lord Megatron." With that, Chrysalis exits the room, as the door closes behind her. As Chrysalis walks out into the hall, she is greeted by another one of her Changeling guards. "My Queen," the guard said to her. "Canterlot is ours. The population, as well as the dignitary guest from their ball are now our prisoners. We are holding them in the castle dungeon. Your throne awaits." He then bows to her. "Well done, my child," Chrysalis replied to her minion. "Now that we control the Capital of Equestria, my ambition only grows. Once Celestia and these accursed Autobots are dealt with, we shall find a way to rid ourselves of Megatron and these Decepticons as well, and take this mighty vessel for ourselves. Megatron has proven himself to be quite the powerful ally. However, his arrogance, pride, and bigotry towards all not of his kind will eventually turn him into a most dangerous enemy. We must play our cards right, and strike when he least expects it. We will destroy Megatron, and claim this flying fortress as our own mobile palace. We can then mobilize our hives, and spread across the entire world, consuming all the love Equestria has to offer." Back inside the brig, Megatron stares at the Celestia's cocoon, still hanging from the ceiling next to Luna's. He then addresses the imprisoned alicorn princess. "A new power currently dominates your world, princess. But we do not have to be adversaries," Megatron said. "What do you want from us, Megatron?" Princess Celestia demanded. "Only for a means, for us to return to planet Earth. We Decepticons never meant you ponies any harm." He stated. "Never meant any harm?" Celestia was disgusted. "You attacked my home, terrorized my citizens, and took me prisoner! If you truly claim that you never intended to wage war with us, then you will release my sister and I, and restore us back to our proper positions as rulers of our kingdom." "Ah, my dear Princess Celestia," Megatron began to say. "I admit that war brings out the worst in me, and has indeed clouded my judgement. But our main focus, was defeating Optimus Prime, and his Autobots. The conflict is now over with the Autobots dealt with, and our quarrel has never been with your kind. Now that the true enemy of the Decepticons are defeated, my one true desire, is to leave your world, peacefully." Celestia wasn't buying it. "Don't try any of your games on me. I know you can't be trusted," she responded. "I won't fall for your deceptions and lies. Allying yourself with Chrysalis was also folly. She will eventually betray you." "Oh I already am aware of that, which is why I have a proposition for you," the Decepticon bargained. "What do you mean?" Celestia asked, suspicious of his actions. "I originally allied myself with her, so that she could send us back to Earth with her, magical abilites. But I do not trust the witch. Instead however, perhaps YOU can perform the spell and return us to our proper home. Think of it, we'll be out of your way, and never set foot on your planet ever again. Agree to this bargain, and I will see to it, you and your dear sister, are properly reinstated as rulers of this world." "And what of Optimus Prime?" Celestia demanded to know. "He will be my prisoner of war, and eventually executed for war crimes against the Decepticons," Megatron answered. "No deal!" Celestia said defiantly, "I will not allow you to harm him or any other members of his team. The Autobots are my dearest friends, and I will not agree to terms that will doom them. And as much as I want you OFF of Equestrian soil, I also refuse to allow another world to be subjegated to your tyranny. I won't sacrifice another world full of innocent lives just to safeguard my own. I don't bargain with Megalomaniacs. We will find a way to defeat you on our own so that no other world will fall to your evil!" "Foolish decision, princess," Megatron said to her. "If that is the case, then your skies will rain molten steel, and fire. Your land and cities will be reduced to ashes, and finally, once all hope has been extinguished, the blood of your citizens, will flood the street. You will regret defying me!" Megatron then gives Celestia a hard glare, then laughs evilly. "You should have taken my offer, but now, you will witness your world's dismemberment." With that statement, Megatron leaves the room. Celestia was left, to lament on her decision. "Oh Luna..... have I made the right decision? Have I doomed us all?" "Princess?" another voice said, from behind the wall. "Optimus? Is that you?" Celestia asked, with a glimmer of hope shining in her heart. "Yes, it is I," Optimus answered, from the brig next to her's. "Are you injured in any way?" "I'm still quite healthy, thank you," Celestia answered, now with a slight smile. "Oh Optimus, I hope I didn't just make a mistake. As tempted as I was with Megatron's offer of leaving my world, I just couldn't agree to his terms. I just won't be able to live with myself if I doomed the population of another world just to save my own. But now, I may have just destroyed all of Equestria. Oh, my poor little ponies..... Vincent. Please forgive me." "You are a wise ruler, Princess Celestia," Optimus said, "For you to lay your own world on the line to save countless billions, and to oppose Megatron, took great courage. I commend you for your decision, and your bravery. You are indeed, a Just monarch of your world. Wishing to make a stand here and now, instead of risking the lives of those you never met shows that you are indeed selfless, and compassionate. I am honored to have you as my friend." Princess Celestia, hearing these touching words, could feel tears welling up in her eyes. She knew Optimus was right, they had to make a stand here and now. To stop Megatron's rampage through the cosmos. "And if anyone should be asking for forgiveness, it should be me," Optimus stated. "What? Why?" Celestia asked. "It was our presence here, that brought ruin to your kind. Do to my carelessness, the War for Cybertron has now spread to your world. Equestria is peaceful, and it's inhabitants should never have been dragged into our conflict. Our very being here on your world, has caused suffering and destruction. I have brought war to you, and for that, I cannot begin to express how sorry I am. I never intended for this to happen, to anyone. Cybertronian, Human, or Pony." Princess Celestia could hear the guilt, and sorrow in the Prime's voice. She was moved by his words. "Oh Optimus, please, you must not blame yourself. This wasn't your fault. On the contrary, I am rather glad you came to Equestria even if it was by accident. Meeting someone like you has truly been a great joy and honor. You have become one of my dearest friends. Together I know we will prevail, and end this evil that plagues our land." "I agree, your highness. We WILL stop Megatron, and Chrysalis, no matter the cost." As Rainbow Dash galloped at top speed back to Ponyville, the pain in her wings were no longer as intense. Seizing the moment, the pegasus then took to the skies. From the air, Her eyes frantically scanned the streets for any of her friends, or Autobots in the area. Then, she spots Applejack, also running as fast as she could, through the town. Quickly, Rainbow Dash swooped down to greet the cowmare. Applejack, also in turn, spotting the pegasus, began to run in her direction. Soon they reach each other's positions, as Dash lands in front of the cowmare. "Rainbow Dash!" Applejack happily cried out. "Am I glad to see you!" "AJ!" Rainbow Dash called out. "I NEED YOUR HELP!" the two mares shout simultaneously towards each other. "Huh?" Rainbow Dash said with confusion. "You need MY help?" Applejack was also equally concerned and puzzled. "And you need mine? What happened, sugarcube? Ya better start from the beginnin'." "Well, Arcee was helping me practice for the Running of the Leaves, when this creep showed up. And you're not gonna believe me, but he was a DECEPTICON! Some jerk calling himself Dreadwing. He attacked us, and took Arcee prisoner. That's why I need to find the others. I came looking for help, and you're the first one I ran into." Applejack's jaw dropped. She couldn't believe what she heard. "Ok, now you!" Rainbow Dash said. "Alrighty, here goes..... Big Macintosh, Apple Bloom, and I were doin' our usual farm work, when these giant bug monsters attacked. Turns out they're these varmints called Insecticons. A type of Decepticon. Anyways, the Cons tried to smash us, but that's when good ole' Bulkhead came in to save us. We tried to help the big lug, but he used some kinda sleepin' gas to knock us out so we wouldn't get in the way. When I came to, I saw them nasty Cons take him away through some funky lookin' green portal. Big Macintosh and Apple Bloom are still snoozin' right now." Rainbow Dash also was at a loss hearing Applejack's encounter. "Oh no. We gotta do something. Arcee was also dragged through a weird looking green portal too. We have to save them! Come on, last I heard, Smokescreen is the closest Bot. I think he's still at Sugarcube Corner with Pinkie Pie," Rainbow Dash said. "Then there's no time to waste. Let's find em'," Applejack agreed, as they both took off towards the bakery. As they finally reach Sugarcube Corner, Applejack frantically knocks on the door, until Carrot Cake answers. "Mr. Cake!" Applejack addressed the Earth Pony baker, "We gotta talk to Pinkie Pie and Smokescreen. Are they here?" "Sorry Applejack," Mr. Cake replied, "But I saw Pinkie go off with Smokescreen in a hurry. It looked like they were in some kind of rush. Wish I can help you more." "Great, now what?" Rainbow Dash moaned. "Well, thanks anyway Mr. Cake. Sorry to have bothered ya." Applejack politely addressed the baker. "It's alright. Have a nice day," Mr. Cake said as he closes the door. "I know, Let's get to Canterlot. Optimus and Twilight are there!" Applejack said, with a smile on her face. "Yeah, GREAT IDEA!" Rainbow Dash agreed. "There's no time like the present! Let's go!" As they make a mad dash towards the train station, they hear what sounds like an engine roar. From the distance, a motor vehicle sped towards the town, then screeches to a halt right in front of the two ponies. It was Wheeljack. "FINALLY! An Autobot!" Rainbow Dash shouted. They see the door open, as Sweetie Belle exits. The young filly looked horrible. Her mane was all messed up and ruffled, she was covered in dirt, and small cuts and bruises, and her eyes were stained with tears. "Sweetie Belle! What happened? You alright, sugarcube?" Applejack said as she quickly rushed over to the filly, who quickly burst into tears. Wheeljack then opens his driver side door, and his severed arm falls out. He then transforms, with much difficulty due to his injuries into robot mode. "What happened to you two? Did you have a run in with the Cons too?" Rainbow Dash asked in concern. "Cons? So you know already....." Wheeljack stammered, as he limped towards the two ponies. "Oh no, Wheeljack, your arm!" Rainbow Dash said, as Applejack looked on in shock. "What, this? Pfft... I've had worse," Wheeljack bragged. He then sits down on the ground. "But right now we have another problem. It's Rarity... Soundwave, Megatron's psychotic mute lapdog, nabbed her. I came back here to see to it that Belle gets home safe, then I'm finding the other Bots, Bulkhead preferrably, and staging a rescue mission." "They took Rarity??!!!" Rainbow Dash shouted in shock. "What about your injuries?" Applejack asked. "And poor Rarity. We gotta save her!" "I'm a Wrecker, I can handle it," The Bot answered. "Poor Sweetie Belle...." Rainbow Dash said as she looked on in concern. "Don't worry, we'll get her back." Sweetie Belle continued to sob as Applejack held her tightly. "It's ok, Sugarcube, Everything's gonna be alright. We'll save her, just you wait," Applejack attempted to comfort the unicorn filly. "Where's Bulk? I need his help," Wheeljack asked. "Well, we kind of have a big problem...." Rainbow Dash said, as she began to explain the bad news to the Wrecker. "WHAT?!?!?!? You gotta be yanking my chain!" Wheeljack shouted, now being up to speed with what happend to Bulkhead an Arcee. "Those stinkin' Cons ambushed us. They were waiting just for the right time to strike." "So now what?" Rainbow Dash asked. "We find the commander and chief. We find Optimus," Wheeljack answered. "We have to save the others, and Rarity!" Then from another distance but in a different direction, they see a red pickup truck driving towards them. "Hey, is that Ironhide?" Applejack said. Ironhide then transforms into robot mode and runs up to the group. He was panting real hard as he got to them. "Ironhide, what's wrong?" Rainbow Dash asked with concern. "You guys. You won't BELIEVE what happened!" Ironhide began. "The Decepticons are here! Swerve and I were just bringing some Energon crystals to Wheeljack's ship, and we got ambushed by a Stunticon, a type of Decepticon, named Wildrider, and these two twins, Rumble and Frenzy! We tried to fend them off, but they were all over us. Wildrider got me pinned down, but Swerve stopped him. He then threw me away from the battle to sacrifice himself. Rumble shot him from the back and he got down! Then they were taking him to a vortex portal. I tried to save him, but they stopped me. Then they got through portal, and now, Swerve is gone!" The group was shocked to hear from the weapon specialist. "Oh no! That's terrible!" Applejack said. "We gotta help him!" Rainbow Dash said. Ironhide then sees Wheeljack, all banged up, and missing his right arm. "Wheeljack! What happened?!" Ironhide said in shock. "Well, you see Ironhide....." Wheeljack said. The group tells Ironhide about what happened to them. "No...." Ironhide said, shocked from the stories. "They got Bulkhead, Arcee, and even Rarity?!" "Yeah, we better tell Optimus about this," Wheeljack said. Just then, they see what appears to be four figures running along the tracks of the train station. As the four ponies got closer and closer, Applejack and Rainbow Dash can make out that they were Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor, Princess Cadance, and to their surprise, and disgust, Trixie, heading their way. Behind them, was a green pickup truck and a blue sports car with flame details, following them. "It's TWI! Thank Celestia!" Applejack shouted. "And is that, Kup and Hot Shot?" Ironhide said, as he, Sweetie Belle, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash run up to the unicorn. However, Twilight looked like she had been through Tartarus and back. Her once beautiful dress was now in shreds, and her fur and mane, covered in dirt and sweat. Shining Armor and Cadence also didn't look any better either. Trixie also looked like she had been dragged through the Everfree Forest. Hot Shot and Kup transformed to their robot modes with sad looks on their faces as they walked up to the group. Hot Shot was carrying my unconsious body. The four ponies with them were exhausted and out of breath when they were all greeted by Dash and AJ. "Twilight, what happened to you? And what happened to Vincent?!" Rainbow Dash looked on in concern. With tears in her eyes, Twilight Sparkle threw her forelegs around the pegasus, and embraced her in a hug. "Oh Rainbow Dash, it was horrible! First, the Changelings infiltrated the Gala, and took everypony prisoner. Then something even worse happened. The Decepticons showed up. They're here, IN EQUESTRIA! Megatron himself defeated Princess Celestia, Vincent got hurt from two Decepticons, Skywarp and Thundercracker, and Optimus was taken down by Queen Chrysalis. Princess Luna has also been kidnapped. Shining Armor, Princess Cadence, Trixie, Hot Shot, Kup and I barely made it out of Canterlot. Vincent's still alive, but he's hurt badly. The rest of the dignitaries and guests are being held hostage. Canterlot..... has fallen." "It's true," Hot Shot said. Hearing this shocked the group, as Wheeljack simply gritted his teeth, and clenched his only fist left. "Megatron's gonna pay for this!" the Wrecker shouted. "I need to find the other Bots," Twilight said as she then noticed Wheeljack who was banged up, and missing an arm. "Oh no! What happened?" Twilight said in concern as she observes Wheeljack's injuries. "I'll fill you in on everything," he replied. "But one more thing..." Rainbow Dash added. "What's SHE doing here??!!" Dash pointed a hoof at Trixie. "Easy, Rainbow Dash," Princess Cadence interrupted. "Trixie helped us escape. She's on our side." "Well, I don't trust her," Rainbow Dash replied as she shoots the showmare a dirty look. "I don't blame you," Trixie replied, "Yes, Trixie did indeed do horrible things to you, and this town. It feels awkward for me to be here again. But The Great and Powerful Trixie has no desire to see Equestria fall to the Changelings and those metal space monsters." "We don't need your help," Rainbow Dash stated flately. "Rainbow Dash, I know you don't like this, but we need to put aside our differences," Twilight pleaded. "All of Equestria is in danger, and we need everypony to be united against this evil." "Fine," Dash replied, rolling her eyes in reluctance. "Look girls, now's not the time for us to be arguing with each other," Shining Armor interjected, "We have bigger things to focus on." "He's right," Applejack agreed. "Like how are we gonna save our friends, and stop the Cons and Changelings?" "So what happened to you all?" Twilight asked in concern. "Well, it went like this, sugarcube....." Applejack then fills her in on everyone's stories. After the cowmare finished her explaination, Twilight, Cadance, Shining Armor, Hot Shot, and Kup were dumbfounded and shocked. "Oh no! Rarity! Arcee! Bulkhead! Swerve!" Twilight said. "We have to do something." With that Sweetie Belle continued to cry, while Wheeljack looked at her, with worry. "This is all my fault!" Sweetie Belle stated. "I should NEVER have messed with that Energon Crystal. It would never have opened the portal, and those Decepticons would never have taken Rarity away!" "Sweetie Belle, don't blame yourself. You had no idea this would happen. Nopony holds you responsible for what happened," Twilight tried to soothe the filly's guild. "Still, I brought them here. If anything happens to my sister, it'll be on my hooves," Sweetie Belle cried. "Hey, you also brought me here. Right, Belle? You got to meet me, and we had some of the best times." Wheeljack said. "I never would have met you if you hadn't opened that portal." "Yeah, I guess you're right," Sweetie Belle sniffed. "And you ARE pretty awesome, Uncle Jackie. I'm glad I met you too." "Don't worry about a thing, Belle. Like I said, I made you a promise, and a Wrecker ALWAYS keeps his word. I'll bring Rarity back home safely, and make the Cons regret they ever messed with your sister." Sweetie Belle, then cracks a small smile, and hugs the Wrecker's leg. "Thank you, Uncle Jackie. You're the best Autobot!" "Sure, kid." As the group begins to converse on a plan of action, they then see Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie running towards them. "Fluttershy! Over there! I see them!" Pinkie Pie beamed as she and the timid pegasus then greets the rest of the group. "Pinkie! Flutters!" Rainbow Dash happily shouted. "You two are alright! I was wondering where you were." "We're A-OK Dashie!" Pinkie said as she hugs the blue pegasus. "Pinkie..... can't breathe...." Dash gasped. "Oops, sorry." They then see another large figure heading towards them. It was Smokescreen, carrying a badly injured Bumblebee on his back, in piggyback fashion. "Girls, we need your help. It's Bumblebee. He's hurt, and badly," Fluttershy pleaded to the others. "Oh no!" Princess Cadence gasped as she sees Smokescreen finally reach the others, as Bumblebee mangled form can be seen. "Smokescreen, what happened?" Kup asked the rookie. "Bee took a pretty nasty spill back there. The Cons did a number on him. He needs treatment, and fast!" Smokescreen stated. He then sees Wheeljack, also in bad shape. "Wheeljack! Don't tell me.... The Cons attacked you too huh?" Smokescreen said to the Wrecker. "I'll live," he answered. "I'm more worried about the scout. We gotta do something to help him." "We gotta find Optimus. Once we get Bumblebee the help he needs, I think you, Ironhide, Kup, Hot Shot and I need to head to Canterlot," Smokescreen said. "Yeah, about that, kid......" Wheeljack starts to explain to the rookie. Once again, filling in Pinkie, Smokescreen, and Fluttershy, as Bumblebee also listened in, they were all shocked with disbelief. "You gotta be kidding me! They got Optimus?!" Smokescreen, still in shock, responded. "Yeah, the stinkin' bugs that we chased off in the forest when we first got here helped the Cons take the Capital, and beat the princess," Wheeljack stated. "So now what?" Smokescreen asked. "We get Bumblebee the help he needs," Fluttershy answered. "Hey, Uncle Jackie..." Sweetie Belle said to the Wrecker, "Can't you fix him up? I mean, you're always fixing your spaceship right?" "Totally different, Belle," Wheeljack replied. "Patching up an inanimate vehicle isn't the same as treating a Cybertronian. We're living machines. He needs a doctor, not a mechanic." "Then there's no time to lose," Twilight stated. The group then quickly made their way to the Ponyville Hospital. Outside of Ponyville Hospital, a giant makeshift medical tent had been set up for Bumblebee. About two hours had passed as the doctor ponies began to assess what they could do for the Autobot. Finally a white Earth Pony mare with a medical cap, pink mane, and a red cross cutie mark stepped out from the curtain. "Nurse Redheart," Twilight called to her. "How is he? How's Bumblebee doing?" "Well, we did all that we could. I'm afraid we're just not familiar with Cybertronian physiology," Nurse Redheart replied. "I figured that'd be the case," Wheeljack stated. "You look like you need treatment as well," the nurse said to the Wrecker. "We were able to help Vincent, but, we've run out of meds to heal him completely," she added as I came to the guys. The right of my forehead and my left side of my face had bandages, my left arm and right leg were on casts, and I could only use my right arm to use the crutch. "Hey guys," I greeted. "Vincent!" my friends said in joy that I was alive, as they came up to me. "We're SO happy you're alive!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed and hugged me. "Ow. Careful, I'm still hurt," I said. "Oh, sorry," Pinkie said as she was done hugging. "How are you feeling?" Twilight asked me. "I'm fine. Still hurt, but fine," I told her. "I wish I could say the same for Bumblebee though," I sadly added. "I'm afraid your world's doctors can't do much else for him." Smokescreen said to the yellow pegasus. "The only one who can help him now, is back at home. We need Ratchet." "Who?" Pinkie Pie asked. "Ratchet. He's our team's medic. I sure wished he was here right now. We could REALLY use his help." Smokescreen replied. "Hmm...." Twilight said, while scratching her chin with her hoof, "That just MIGHT be possible!" "How, Twily?" Shining Armor asked. "Well, I've been studying the spell ever since Princess Luna found it. I've been reading the incantation day in and day out." "But isn't the spell book still back in Canterlot?" Trixie asked. "And there's no way we can go back there now." "Not exactly..." Princess Cadence chimed in, as she suddenly pulls out a book. "I have it RIGHT HERE!" "Cadence, YOU'RE THE BEST!" Shining Armor said to his wife, as he picks her up and twirls her around. Cadence giggles, as he puts her back down. "I was able to snag it before I headed to the Gala. Good thing I did." Cadence explained. "Then there's no time to lose. I have to perform it now, or Bumblebee will never make it," Twilight said as she begins to flip through the pages. After a group of volunteer ponies built a giant wagon like stretcher for Bumblebee to lay on, me, Twilight, along with five of the Mane 6, the remaining five Autobots, Trixie, Royal Couple of the Crystal Empire and I stood firm at Ponyville's town square. Big Macintosh and Apple Bloom had since woken up, and were filled in on what happened, along with Scootaloo, where all three of the Cutie Mark Crusaders were reunited and also present at the town square. "Ok, here goes," Twilight stated, as she began to chant the ancient incantation. It was in a language that no one, including me, but the princesses and Twilight could understand. As Twilight continued to chant, her horn then begins to give off a brilliant glow. Then from the tip, it shoots a purple beam forward, and seems to rip open the air in front of her, creating a large swirling purple vortex. "Ya did it, Sugarcube!" Applejack cheered. "Finally, Bumblebee. We're going to get the help you need," Fluttershy said to the injured Bot. Bumblebee weakly responded in his electronic tone. "Shhhh, don't speak. Save your strength," she said to him. Suddenly, the portal began to destabilize. "I.... I can't control it!" Twilight shouted as she struggled to keep it open. "Come on Twilight, if anypony can do this, it's you!" Rainbow Dash encouraged her. "That's right." Smokescreen added, "Do it for your Princess, and do it for Optimus!" "You got this, dude," I said to my alicorn friend. "I can feel it slipping. I won't be able to keep it open for long. I need more power!" Twilight shouted. Right as the portal was about to collapse, suddenly, a pink aura surrounded the portal, and it began to stabilize again. Twilight looks to her right, to see Trixie, using her magic to help. "Trixie?" Twilight looked on at her former rival. "Well, this IS the fate of the entire world after all. Still, I can't have you hogging all of the spotlight." Trixie replied smugly. "Thank you, Trixie. I think." Twilight said to her while thankful, but slightly annoyed by her obvious self boasting. With Trixie's help, the portal finally opens properly. "Praise Celestia," I said in astonishment. "Well, I guess you really did come through for us after all. Guess I owe you an apology," Rainbow Dash said to the show mare. "Alright, this is it. It's time to go through," Twilight said as she took charge. "And we're right here with ya," Applejack said. "Maybe there's some people over there who could help me," I added. "Good idea," Twilight said. "Good Luck, Twily. Come back safely." Shining Armor said, as he and Cadence waved. With that, Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and I stepped into the portal. Following us was Wheeljack, who quickly gave a nod to Sweetie Belle, and the rest of the Crusaders. "Well, here we go, Bee. We're heading home," Smokescreen said, as he wheels Bee's stretcher into the portal. It soon closes, as Shining Armor, Cadence, and Trixie look on. "I believe in you, Twilight," Cadence said, as she looked into the sky with a new hope. Chapter 1Youtube Video It was a bright, and beautiful morning in Ponyville as today was a very exciting day for Sweetie Belle. For months she had pestered Rarity to allow her to accompany her big sister on one of her gem hunts. After a while, Rarity finally gave in. "Oh thank you, thank you, Rarity, for finally letting me come with you," Sweetie Belle shouted in a squeaky tone, "I'm so excited I could BURST! We're gonna have so much fun!" "Yes, of course, dear..." Rarity mumbled, clearly not as entusiastic as her little sister. "Just make sure you stay close to me, and PLEASE don't cause any trouble." "I promise," the little unicorn filly responded. The two unicorn sisters then quickly prepared their saddle bags with tools, water, and what ever equipment they needed for their little expedition. It wasn't long before they reached the mountain range right outside of Ponyville, where Rarity would usually go to mine her gems. It was a bright and beautiful sunny day. Celestia's sun beamed in the blue sky, as the sisters began their quest to harvest some gems. "Rarity, over here!" Sweetie Belle called to her sister as she dug into the dirt. "I found some sapphires!" "Well, good work, Sweetie Belle. I see you have been rather helpful today," Rarity complimented. They had already filled three saddle bags full of diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and even some jade. "These would look lovely in my new project I'm working on for my dear friend Fleur De Lis," Rarity said. She and the supermodel, Fleur had become rather close friends with the fashionista ever since Rarity befriended the socialite, Fancy Pants in Canterlot. Fleur's birthday was coming up soon, and Rarity wanted to make the best jewel encrusted gown for her friend. She didn't want to make the same mistake as with what happened during Twilight Sparkle's birthday the year prior. "How about these?" Sweetie Belle said as she pointed to a cracked open rock full of quartz. "No, those won't do. I need something..... fancier," Rarity answered. Suddenly, Sweetie Belle's horn began to shine. This was a surprise to her, as Sweetie Belle had never been capable of using magic yet. "Rarity! My horn!" she called out. Rarity gasped, and went to her sister's side, slightly concerned. Sweetie Belle's horn then began to intensify, then suddenly, it shot out a beam towards the side of the mountain, blowing a large hole in it. "WOOOAAAHHHHAAOO!" both sisters cried out. "What just happened? Did I just do that? COOL!" Sweetie Belle beamed, as Rarity ignored the comment. "Sweetie Belle! Are you alright? Are you hurt in any way?" Rarity asked in concern. "I feel...... just fine actually," Sweetie Belle answered. "But I can't WAIT to tell Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo I just used real magic!" "Of course darling," Rarity said, hugging her sister, and sighing in relief that she wasn't hurt. As soon as the dust cleared from the explosion, both sisters then see something that absolutely amazed them. From the hole that Sweetie Belle just blew open with her magical mishap, inside it, were blue gems. Gems they've never seen before. It also seemed like, they were glowing, and even giving off a strong aura. Some of the gems were no larger than the jewels they were mining for, others were as large as the biggest building in Ponyville. "Oh my, how lovely!" Rarity said, completely bedazzled by the sight of their recent findings. "Wow," Sweetie Belle gasped. As the two unicorn sisters approached closer, their horns began to glow again. "Oh goodness, it looks like our unicorn magic is being affected by these crystals. As lovely as they are, I think we should leave these alone. Well, maybe I'll take a small sample. These things are CLEARLY doing something to our horns." Rarity quickly levitated a small pickaxe out of her saddle bag, and with a swift swing, broke off a chunk of the blue glowing crystal about the same size as the fire ruby that Spike gave to her last year. She quickly stuffs it into her saddle bag. "Hmm. If these crystals were what gave me the ability to use magic. It might do it again. Who knows, I think these babies are the key to my cutie mark!" Sweetie Belle thought to herself. She pulled out her own pickaxe and was about to work at another crystal, when Rarity stopped her. "Sweetie Belle, enough. We have all the gems we need today. And leave those alone. If these things can affect unicorn magic, it may be dangerous. I'm taking this sample to Twilight. Maybe she can figure something out, though this thing is MARVELOUSLY lovely!" Rarity said, as she beams at the chunk of blue rock. "Ok..." Sweetie Belle said, disappointed. The two sisters then began their trek back to Ponyville. Youtube Video It was around mid afternoon, when the newly coronated young alicorn princess, Twilight Sparkle heard a knock at the door of her library. She had been writing a full report to Princess Celestia on our recent quest of retrieving her crown from the parallel dimension through the magic mirror, while sipping some hot tea that Spike had just brewed for her. "I'll get it," Spike said as he runs for the door. As he opens the door to see who the visitor was, his eyes immediately turn into hearts, and goes into a lovey-dovey daze. "Hi Rarity," he said, completely lost in her beauty. "Hello there Spikey-Wikey," Rarity said as she walked into the library with Sweetie Belle following her in. "Oh, Hello Rarity. What brings you around today?" Twilight Sparkle said as she places her quill back into the ink bottle on her table. "Well, Sweetie Belle and I found this mysterious blue crystal when were on our gem hunt today," Rarity explained as she opens her saddle bag, and pulls out the glowing object. She places it on the main table. "Hmm," Twilight said, puzzled. "I've never seen anything like this before." Spike licked the crystal, to everyone's disgust. "Spike, that is certainly unbecoming of you," Rarity scolded. "YUCK, I don't know what kind of gem that is, but it tastes TERRIBLE!" Spike said. "Serves you right," Twilight smirked, "I'm not much of a geologist, but this is certainly an interesting crystal." "I'll say," Sweetie Belle chimed in. "It made me use magic." "Huh?" both Spike and Twilight said in unison, with puzzled looks on their faces. "That's another reason why I'm here, Twilight. You see, It seems to affect magic. There's an entire mountain full of these crystals. I'm hoping you can figure out what these are before anypony starts looking for these things. These crystals could be dangerous." Twilight listened with great interest as Rarity finished her explaination. "Really?" Twilight said with a smile on her face. "Very fascinating! It enhances magic? I'm certainly going to enjoy studying this thing." As Twilight moves closer to the gem, it began to glow, as did her horn. "Hmm, I see what you mean. I can feel my power surging. Like my horn has been supercharged," Twilight explained as she begins to back away from it. As soon as she did, her horn stopped glowing. "Oh this is so exciting. Thank you, Rarity, for giving me something new to research!" "Um, yes of course," Rarity said with an awkward smile. "Even when she's awkward, she's still beautiful," Spike muttered, while Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes. "Let me see," Sweetie Belle squeaked as she grabs the blue gem. "Sweetie Belle, stop!" Twilight said, but it was too late. The moment the young filly made contact with the crystal, her horn, and eyes began to glow. Even brighter than before. Suddenly a magical surge came fourth from the young unicorn, knocking over Rarity, Spike, and Twilight. "What's happening to me?!" Sweetie Belle called out, scared out of her mind. "Oh no, Sweetie Belle! Twilight, please, HELP HER!" Rarity screamed. Twilight tried to get close, only to be pushed back by another surge of energy emitting from Sweetie Belle's body. Suddenly a large beam of light shoots out of Sweetie Belle's horn, and through the ceiling of the library. In the gaping hole now in the library, they can see the pillar of light going skyward. Suddenly, the magical beam stopped, and Sweetie Belle reverted back to normal. She immidiately threw the gem on the ground, not wanting to go anywhere near it. "SWEETIE BELLE!" Twilight, Rarity, and Spike called out in unison as they rushed to the filly's side. "Are you alright? Are you hurt?" Rarity asked. "I, I think so. I'm not in any pain," she answered. "Let me take a look," Twilight said as she examines the filly. "I'm no doctor, but you look like you're in perfect health. You just look a bit tired. I think you should get some rest," the purple alicorn said. Just then, another knock at the door caught their attention. Spike goes to answer it, and as he does, they see Applejack, and Rainbow Dash charge in, breathing heavily. "Girls? What's wrong?" Twilight asked. "You alright sugarcube? We heard a loud explosion and came runnin'," Applejack answered. "Yeah, like a chunk of the library looks like it's been blown off. What happened?" Rainbow Dash added. "It's a long story," Twilight answered. "But the most important thing is, that nopony is hurt." "Well, there's another reason why we're here egghead." Rainbow Dash said, "We saw something strange in the sky. Like a purple vortex. Something flew out of it. Something big that looked like it was metal. Then we saw something else, like, I dunno, fall off it. It looked funny, and it was yellow." "And not to mention, BIG!" Applejack explained. "We ain't sure what it was, but the vortex thingy appeared when a light shot out of your library." All eyes from Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, and Spike now stared at Sweetie Belle, who was now, sheepishly backing up. "Umm, that was my fault," Sweetie Belle said. "Anyways, that big yella thing, crashed right next to Fluttershy's house," Applejack explained. "We gotta go see if she's ok!" "Oh NO!" Rarity gasped. "Of all the worst things, this is THE WORST POSSIBLE THING!" "Is Fluttershy ok?" Twilight asked with concern. Spike gulped hard. "We dunno. That's why We need to head over there now!" Applejack answered. "I'm gonna go find Pinkie Pie, the rest of you, meet at Fluttershy's," Rainbow Dash yelled as she zips out the door. "Spike, stay here with Sweetie Belle. We need to check this out." As Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, and now joined by Pinkie Pie, head towards the crash site of the strange object that fell out of the sky, they see that Fluttershy was already waiting for them. "Fluttershy! Darling, are you doing alright?" Rarity asked as she hugs her friend. "Oh, I'm just fine, Rarity. Thank you for asking. But what happened earlier was scary," Fluttershy said. "We're just glad you're A-OK!" Pinkie Pie beamed at the yellow pegasus. "So where's the fallen shooting star? I bet I can make a wish. Everypony knows that if you find a shooting star, your wish comes true. I'm gonna wish for the BIGGEST chocolate Sundae EVER!" "Not now Pinkie," Twilight interrupted. "We need to first, find out what fell out of the sky. The Mane 6 then begin trekking towards the crash site, about 2 miles from Fluttershy's home. It was easy to find due to the billowing smoke emminating from the area. As soon as they reach the site, they already see a huge smoking crater in the ground. "Girls, I'll check it first," Rainbow Dash said, as she flies towards the crater, then enters it. "Whoa," They hear Rainbow say. "What? What did you find?" Twilight asked the blue pegasus. "You guys HAVE to see this!" Rainbow answered. As the rest of the girls converge on the edge of the crater they see..... It was unlike anything they've ever laid eyes on. "What IS that?" Fluttershy asked, while shivering behind Applejack. "Ohh, it looks like a big metal Minotaur!" Pinkie Pie said. "I....... For once..... I don't know," Twilight Sparkle said. She was at a complete loss. "Do you think it's a big alien? Is he here to make friends with us? Invade us? Eat us? I want to throw him a Welcome to Ponyville Party!" Pinkie Pie chimed. "PINKIE PIE!!!!" The rest of the girls shouted. "Sorry," Pinkie said sheepishly. Just then, the big metal creature began to stir. It's eyes began to light up, and it began to twitch. Slowly, it began sitting up, as the rest of the Mane 6 gasped, and backed away. Soon they were face to face, with the large metal being, as it looked at them, with a puzzled look on it's face. The creature seemed to be confused. Then it spoke, or at least it seemed to speak, in several electronic sounding blips and beeps. "Umm.... Welcome to Equestria?" Twilight said to it, with an awkward smile. Chapter 10It was around late afternoon. Twilight has returned with Optimus from the Canterlot libraries fairly early this day. As Optimus drives up to her treehouse library, the two notice Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, and me waiting for her. Twilight exits Optimus, as he transforms into robot mode. "Oh, hi, Twilight," Fluttershy greeted the alicorn princess. "I see you're back early today. Is everything ok?" "I'm fine, Fluttershy. Optimus and I came back home early today, because, well, Princess Luna found it, the book containing the spell that will return the Autobots home," Twilight responded as she levitates the book out of her saddle bag. "It will still take some time for me to learn it, however." "Oh, well, I'm glad you'll be going home soon, Optimus. And all of the Autobots......... All of you...." Fluttershy replied with a sad look on her face, clearly upset. "It's alright, sugarcube. We know this day would come," Applejack said to the pegasus, trying to comfort her. "I know, but still, I don't want to Bumblebee to leave," Fluttershy, with tears forming, stated. "I know how you feel Fluttershy, believe me, I truly do. I don't want Optimus to leave either. He's become someone I really look up to, like a second mentor next to Princess Celestia. But, he has his responsibilities back on this Planet Earth, to protect the beings who live there from evil," Twilight explained. Prime walks to Fluttershy and kneels on one knee. "Fluttershy," he said to the pegasus, placing his giant finger under her chin, "I am truly grateful, and honored you think so highly of us. And I thank you for your friendship. I clearly see that you and Bumblebee have forged a strong bond with each other. It pains me to see you and our scout to be inevitably separated by worlds, but the friendship you have forged with him, with us, and with me, will always be true." Fluttershy gave a smile, she knew he was right, they didn't belong in Equestria, and asking them to stay while Earth fell to the Decepticons would be a selfish act. She knew it was for the greater good. "Thank you, Optimus," she nodded. "Well, it ain't time to say goodbye yet, sugarcube," Applejack stated. "Twi still needs to master the spell, and that can take some time. So until then, go spend whatever time you can with Bee. I know I'm hanging with that big lug, Bulkhead, as much as I can." The statement Applejack made gave Optimus a worried look. "Somethin' wrong there, big guy?" Applejack asked in concern. "I am greatly worried about the well being of planet Earth, and the humans," Optimus stated. "We have been offworld for far too long. I only hope that Megatron has not conquered it already. The human military can only hold out for so long." "I understand, time is off the essence," Twilight replied. "Well, onto other news," Twilight addressed to us. "As you know, the Grand Galloping Gala is coming up again. Much to Princess Luna's objection, Princess Celestia decided to hold it during the day this year. It's mainly because many dignitaries from other kingdoms are coming this year. Princess Celestia gave two tickets!" "And you know me," I said. "Being lieutenant, I have to attend." "THE GALA?" the rest of the girls replied in unison. "Yes, it will be tomorrow. Who wants to come with me?" Twilight asked. "Yeah, thanks for the offer, but the last time we went to the Gala, it was no fun at all," Pinkie Pie complained. "I think I'll pass this time as well, Twilight," Fluttershy replied. "Sorry, sugarcube, but me too. Not to mention I got a lot of work on the farm this time around," Applejack also responded. "But, the princess, the tickets...." Twilight pleaded. "Hmm, if it is a formal gathering hosted by Princess Celestia, then I will accompany you," Optimus said. "Really, you mean it?" Twilight beamed with a huge smile on her face. It was large enough to make Pinkie jealous. "I will go to this, Gala, with you, my young friend," Optimus answered. Pinkie, Applejack, Fluttershy, and I looked at Optimus, dumbfounded (question marks pop from our heads). Twilight was overjoyed. "YES!...... YES! YES! YES! YES!" Twilight shouted as she skipped around like a school filly. " A Prime, going to a GALA?" I said, completely dumfounded. "Hey Optimus, why would you wanna go to a big boring snorefest like the Gala?" Pinkie Pie asked. "I also thought that Primes don't Party. That's what Smokescreen told me." "I believe a formal gathering such as this one would help the rest of your world understand us Cybertronians. Also, it would be rude of me not to show, especially if Princess Celestia went through the trouble securing the passes for us," Optimus answered. "How about Rainbow Dash and Rarity? Wouldn't they like to go?" Fluttershy asked. "Nah, Dashie's too busy hanging out with Arcee," Pinkie Pie answered. "And Rare's too busy keepin' an eye on Sweetie Belle, makin' sure she ain't being badly influenced by Wheeljack," Applejack explained. "I see," Twilight answered. "Well, I'm going to the library now. It's time I began studying this spell." She then opens the door to the library. "Spike? Spike are you home? Where are you?" she called for her dragon. "Oh, Spike isn't here right now. He's out gem hunting," Fluttershy explained. "Huh? Why would he be out hunting gems at this hour?" Twilight asked. "Well, he's helping Smokescreen gather the gems he needs to pay off the school," Fluttershy answered. "Pay off the school? What happened?" Twilight asked with a puzzled look on her face. "It's a long story, sugarcube....." Applejack stated. "Speaking of gathering resources, I will be helping the other Autobots gather and mine for some Energon. I bid you all a farewell, for now," Optimus said as he transforms into this truck mode, and then drives off in the distance. The mountain ranges..... Smokescreen and Spike were looking for the gems they needed to pay for the school. "Hey Smokescreen!" Spike called out the the Autobot. "There's some more over here!" Spike had dug up a good number of gemstones. From rubies, to sapphires, to diamonds. "Hey, thanks a bunch, Spike. You're really saving my tailpipe, today," Smokescreen said to the dragon. "No problem, beats sitting home all day with nothing to do. Twilight hasn't been around lately, and besides, I never leave a friend hanging," Spike responded. "Isn't Rarity the expert at this? How come you didn't ask her to help?" Smokescreen asked. "She's kinda busy today. Yeah, I wish she was here too," Spike responded, as he gave a sigh, and his cheeks turned red. "What about these?" Smokescreen asked as he picked up a number of multi colored jewels. "Those will do nicely," Spike said, as he places the jewels Smokescreen handed to him in his bag. "I think a few more, and we'll be set. You'll have enough to pay back the school," Spike stated. "This, is probably the most embarrassing thing to happen to me," Smokescreen said as a blip went off on his sensor. "Hey, I think there's some Energon here, too. I'm getting a reading. Gonna go check it out real quick. Be right back." With that, Smokescreen walks off towards the source of the blip. Spike simply sighed, as he continued to think about Rarity. Not only did he want to help Smokescreen pay back the damages he did, but also find the perfect jewel for the unicorn he loved so much. He then sees something shimmering in the ground. As Spike got closer, he sees that it's diamond. He begins to dig. As he continues to paw at the ground, he unearths more of it. He then realizes, this diamond was fairly large. It was about double the size of his body. "JACKPOT!" Spike shouted as he tries to pull it out of the ground. "This thing really looks tasty! But no, I can't eat it. It's gonna be the perfect gift for Rarity." Using all of his might, he finally gets it out of the hole. He then looks at it, in all of it's majesty, and beauty. It was magnificent, and delicate looking, just like Rarity. Spike was excited, as he couldn't wait to give it to her. He's going to need Smokescreen's help in order to bring it back to Ponyville. As Spike began to roll the diamond on the ground, he then sees a large shadow coming up from behind him. "Hey Smokescreen," Spike began to say. "Did you find the Energon?" "What are you babbling about, shrimp?" a voice, not Smokescreen's, answered. Spike immediately froze in place. It wasn't the Autobot, but someone else he encountered earlier on, someone he hoped never to see again. Someone I've faced before. Spike slowly turned around, to see a familiar teenage red dragon standing behind him. It's Garble! "Well, well, if it isn't the pony loving twerp. Long time no see, Spike!" he taunted. "I still haven't paid you back for that whole incident with the phoenixes." "Oh NO!" Spike yelled in terror. "And I think I'll start, by taking that precious, and delicious looking diamond of yours!" Garble said as he began to move towards Spike. "NO! You can't!" Spike defiantly yelled, trying to protect the diamond. "Ha, is that for your pony girlfriend? Don't make me laugh," Garble said as he grabs Spike and throws him aside. "NOOOOO!" Spike yelled. But it was too late. He then sees Garble, chomp into the diamond, and with four or five bites, it was gone. Spike just sat there, with tears in his eyes. "Ok, fine, you ate the diamond. You got me back. Now please, just, leave me alone," Spike sadly stated. "Oh no, no, no...." Garble replied. "I'm not done with you yet." "Wha? What do you mean?" Spike, now terrified, began to back up. "I'm still gonna make you pay for humiliating me in front of my boys last time. So now, I'm gonna turn you into lunchmeat!" Garble threatened as he hissed and extended his claws. Suddenly, an even larger figure stood behind Garble, and grabbed him by the tail, and lifted him up. "BRING IT!" Smokescreen angrily stated, while holding the teenage dragon by the tail upside down. "HUH??!! WHAT THE??!!" Garble yelled in shock. "Who's the tough guy now, you Predacon scum?" Smokescreen said as he shook him. "WHAT ARE YOU? What's with this metal freak?!?" Garble yelled. "What's the matter, can't fight someone bigger than you?" It was Smokescreen's turn to taunt the dragon. Garble breathes a stream of fire into Smokescreen's face, but it seemed to have little effect. "You just made your second big mistake! Your first was messing with my little buddy there!" Smokescreen said in a furious tone. "Smokescreen, wait!" Spike yelled to the Autobot. "Please, I know he's a jerk, but, just don't hurt him. You're already in trouble as it is." "Are you kidding?" Smokescreen said in surprise. "This guy just tried to frag you, and you're telling me to let him go?" "Please, I just don't want anyone getting hurt. And I don't want to see you get into any more trouble. Optimus wouldn't approve of this," Spike explained. Smokescreen looked at Spike, then at Garble, who was terrified. Seeing the fear in the dragon punk's eyes made Smokescreen realize what he was doing. "You're right kid. Optimus wouldn't do this. And this isn't how Autobots should act." Smokescreen then drops Garble on the ground, as he lands on his head hard. "OWWW!" Garble complained. "Get lost, punk! If I ever catch you messing with any of my friends again, you're scrap!" Smokescreen threatened. He then gets back up, and flaps his wings to fly away. "You just made a big mistake, you metal freak. I'll be back, and I'll make you pay. Don't think you're off my hit list either Spike!" he yelled as he flew away. "Hey, Spike, you ok?" Smokescreen asked the clearly shaken dragon. "I'll be fine. Thanks, Smokescreen, for bailing me out," the dragon answered. "Hey, no problem-o, little guy," the Autobot replied to the little dragon. The duo then began to make their way back to Ponyville. "Man, I was about ready to turn that punk inside out. But, yeah I know, what you said was the right thing. Still, I HATE bullies!" Smokescreen stated as he and Spike began to make their way back to Ponyville. After making it back to Ponyville, Spike and Smokescreen had delivered the gems to Miss Cheerilee. She would deliver the message to the Mayor, telling her that his debt to the school had been fully repaid. Smokescreen was off the hook. Later, feeling good about being out of debt, he took a leisurely stroll through Ponyville, towards Sugarcube Corner, to meet up with his favorite Pink Pony. As he walked down the street, he then suddenly feels someone hitting him from behind. It was hard enough to knock him down. "Huh? Who did that?" Smokescreen shouted, as he gets back up. "Told you this wasn't over!" Garble yelled. This time, he had a number of other teenage dragons with him. "You!" Smokescreen yelled. "I thought I told you to get lost!" Smokescreen then raises his fists. "I wouldn't try that if I were you!" Garble said as he points to one of his dragon buddies, holding Spike, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie hostage. They were tied up in rope, and gagged with a white cloth over their mouths! They were muffling to Smokescreen for help! "Let them go!" Smokescreen yelled. "You're in no position to make demands, freak," Garble said. "I'm gonna run this town, and make the ponies service us! If you know what's good for your little friends, you'll back off." "No way," Smokescreen stated. He then lunges towards the dragons. He punches the one holding Pinkie Pie, then catches her before she hits the ground. He then quickly undoes the ropes, and pulls the cloth off of her mouth. "Pinkie, you alright?" he asked. "I'm A-ok, Smokescreen!" She responded. "But you have to save Fluttershy and Spike from those dragon meanies. I'm gonna go get Applejack, Dashie, Vincent, and Twilight. They'll help us!" "Go, quickly!" Smokescreen instructed. "Aye-eye!" Pinkie saluted as she ran off towards the library. "Hang on Flutters, Spike, I'll get you guys out of there," Smokescreen reassured them. "You can't stop us, this town is ours. Get 'em, boys!" Garble yelled, as the dragons fly towards the Autobot. Smokescreen swung his fists, knocking down two of the dragons, but three more swooped down, and began dive bombing him. Garble held on to both Fluttershy and Spike as they struggled. Soon the dragons began to slam into Smokescreen, as they claw, shoot fire, and ram him. Smokescreen did his best to hold off the onslaught, as he then turns his hands into his blasters. He began to shoot at the flying dragons wildly. "Too slow!" One of the dragons taunted, as he swoops down, and bites into Smokescreen's neck. "Get..... OFF!" Smokescreen yelled as he pries the dragon off of him. Smokescreen realized he was in over his head, there were too many of them. The dragons continued to swoop at him, while some of the others began to terrorize the ponies around town. Garble then flies up to him and kicks him in the face, knocking the Autobot down. "Now watch as I turn your big bodyguard into metal shavings!" Garble said to Spike and Fluttershy, still tied up as he has them clenched in his fists. The dragon punks had Smokescreen's limbs pinned on the ground, as Garble walked up to him. "Say goodnight!" Garble taunted as he raised his claw. Then, suddenly what looked like a wrecking ball slams Garble in the face, sending him flying into a house, leaving a huge hole in it. Fluttershy and Spike where sent flying in the air, when another large figure caught them before they hit the ground. Bulkhead, had sent Garble flying, while Bumblebee had safely caught Fluttershy and Spike before any harm could come to them. The other dragons looked on in astonishment. Garble climbs out of the hole from the side of the house, and looks on. "What???? You mean, there's more of the metal monsters?!?!" Garble yelled in surprise. "Wanna know something? See, when you mess with one member of Team Prime, guess what? Now you got all of us to deal with. Nobody, and I mean NOBODY, messes with one of our friends and gets away with it," Bulkhead threatened as he slammed his wrecking balls together. Bumblebee unties Fluttershy and Spike. Wheeljack stood next to Bulkhead, as well as Hot Shot and Swerve, ready to fight. "Thank you, Bumblebee. You saved us from those horrible dragons." Fluttershy said as she hugs the side of his face. "WHAT'S A DRAGON?" Bulkhead, Wheeljack, Swerve, and Hot Shot asked in unison. Bumblebee gave his electronic response. "They look like Predacons, Bee. But Optimus says they aren't," Bulkhead replied. Bumblebee then turns his attention to Spike, and Fluttershy, and speaks in his blips and bleeps. Fluttershy understandingly nods to him. "He says we need to clear out," Fluttershy translated to Spike as they make a break for it. "Looks like there's gonna be some fun after all," Wheeljack stated as he draws his swords and activates his faceplate. Swerve then turns his right hand into a spinning saw blade weapon, and Hot Shot activates his arm blasters and battle goggles. "What are you morons standing around for? GET THEM!" Garble shouted as he and the rest of the dragons charge at the Bots. "Finally, SOME ACTION! You stinkin' Preds picked the wrong Bot to mess with," Wheeljack yelled as he and the rest of the bots also charge. What happened next was absolute mayhem in Ponyville, as the Bots and Dragons began their massive brawl in the town. Bumblebee punched out a number of dragons, as they slammed into buildings, causing them to crumble. Smokescreen and Hot Shot shoot at a few of them, causing them to also crash. Some of his stray blasts got too close to the ponies, as they tried to flee for their lives. Bulkhead, Swerve, and Wheeljack continued to pummel any dragon that got in their way, destroying carts, and wagons in the chaos. Garble and Smokescreen faced each other, as the dragon clawed at his armor. Smokescreen grabs him, and winds his fist up, then delivers a massive punch to the dragon's face, sending him crashing into Sugarcube corner, destroying the roof of the building. The mayhem continued on, as the Bots and Dragons tore up the section of Ponyville. Ponies continued to flee the area, and structures around them were being destroyed by the brawl. The dragons then regroup around Garble. Right when he was about to order another charge at the Autobots, several laser shots and blasts came out of nowhere right between the bots and dragons. From the distance, the see the source. It was Arcee, with Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Twilight, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, me, Ironhide, Kup, and Optimus Prime standing behind her. Prime was firing his arms blasters, Kup and Ironhide were blasting from their arm mounted cannons. I was using my wand, blasting. Arcee had a very angry look on her face. "How many of these metal freaks are there?!?" Garble yelled in frustration. "Have all of you BLOWN YOUR SERVOS?!" Arcee scolded the rest of the Bots. "Look at what you've done!" Ironhide added. (Hot shot deactivates his goggles) The rest of the Autobots then realized what had happened. The ensuing fight to save their friends, ended up with the result half the town being destroyed. "Oooohh, scrap...." Bulkhead muttered when he finally saw the gravity of the situation. "Uhhhh.... oops..." Swerve stammered. "Ha, now's our chance!" Garble tried to lunge at Bulkhead. But I used my my wand to lunge, erected a magic field in front of me, caught him in mid air, and crashed us to the ground we were tumbling away from each other. "Hello, Garble," I said, getting back up. "Well, if it itsn't the lieutenant of the Royal Guard. 'Vincent,' is it?" the dragon mocked as he gets up as well. "You're still this soft, fighting for your pathetic pony friends? For YOUR town?" "This is where I stand," I said as I stow away my wand into my sheath. The Mane 6 wanted to help, as do the Autobots but Prime. "He's mine," I told them. Garble and I glared at each other. And then, we clash each other. We were evading and blocking each other's attacks. My friends and the bots watch this rivalry between me and the dragon gang leader. Garble whacks me in the face with his tail, but then I deliver a roundhouse kick to HIS face. Then Garble and I clenched our fists. I were were both grunting as we kept pushing our fists towards each other. Garble then grins, and tosses me to the side, flipping me. He tries to punch me on the ground, but I evade, and trip him by the leg, and SWEEP THE LEG! I kick him in the air. Garble hits the ground and recovers. He was REALLY angry, so he began slashing his claws as I was dodging. Until, then, he grabs me offguard, throws me over onto the ground. But I trip him again, an this time, grabbed him by the tail, and spun him round and round. "RRAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!!!" I yelled as I kept spinning him. Then, I threw him off. He hits the ground hard, skidding on his back, nearly hitting Sugarcube Corner. Garble then gains his composure, and tried to lunge at me, when suddenly, he was surrounded by a golden aura. It suspended him in mid air. "Hey, what gives!?" he yelled as the source of the aura was revealed. Princess Celestia had decended from the sky, using her magic to hold him. Optimus seeing the destruction done to the town by his own Autobots, simply shook his head, in dismay. "You! Garble, I believe that's your name," Princess Celestia addressed the Dragon. "I want you out of this town, and don't ever return! By my decree, you and your dragon gang are here by banished from Ponyville!" "Who's gonna make me?" Garble said in defiance. Suddenly, Optimus walked up to the dragon. "You will vacate the premises as commanded by the princess," Optimus sternly said. "Failure to obey such proceedings, will result, in serious REPERCUSSIONS!" Optimus turns his hand into his blade and points it at Garble's face. Garble gulps hard. "Y..Y..YES, SIR!" he fearfully responded. Princess Celestia lets him go. "Come on, guys. This isn't worth it. Let's get out of here," Garble said as he and all of the teenage dragons began to retreat, and fly away towards the horizon. "And stay gone, ya lousy varmints!" Applejack yelled. "This isn't over, is it, Garble?" one of the dragons asked. "No, it isn't," Garble replied. "We'll be back one day....." So the dragons were gone. For now, at least. The Autobots, especially Smokescreen, then sheepishly look at Princess Celestia, who had a rather stern look on her face. "I know what you're about to say, your majesty," Smokescreen started. "And before you say anything, I just want to let you know. This was all my fault. The others were only trying to help me. Please don't blame them." "Are you all out of your minds?!" Arcee yelled at the others. "Our job is to protect others, not wreck the place in some idiotic street fight! I swear, Smokescreen, you just CAN'T stay out of trouble." "Arcee, please," Princess Celestia addressed the female Autobot, "let me speak for the moment." "Sorry, your highness," Arcee backed down. "Spike explained everything to me in a letter he sent. I understand that you technically didn't start this conflict. I also know that you and the others were trying to protect my subjects from harm. Your hearts, or rather, spaks, I should say, were in the right place. However, what all of you did, was extremely reckless." The Autobots simply stared at the ground the entire time, embarressed by their actions. Wheeljack, however, simply had his arms crossed, and looked at the princess as she spoke. "We're guests on this world. The princess allowed us to stay here with her people. And this is how you repay her?" Arcee seethed at the others. The Mane 6, Spike, and I simply looked at the Autobots sadly while they were being reprimended. "Princess Celestia, I just want to let you know, that, I'm really sorry for all of this. If you need to kick anyone out of town, it should be me," Smokescreen said, kneeling in front of the Princess. "I say maybe it should," Arcee seethed again. "Arcee," Ironhide reached his hand out as Arcee backed down again. "Oh no, I won't banish any of you from the town. Like I said, I know all of you meant well. So for repayment, Optimus and I have come to an agreement," Celestia explained. "An agreement?" Bulkhead asked. "Indeed, Bulkhead," Optimus answered. "You will all help with the reconstruction of Ponyville. Since it was our fault, we must be the ones doing the repairs." "Well, you're in luck, Princess." Bulkhead stated. "Before I became a warrior, I used to work in construction. This is second nature to me." "Yer full of surprises, Bulk!" Applejack said to the bot. "Ohh, I love surprises!" Pinkie Pie chimed in. "After you have reconstructed the town, you will all remain in vehicular form, as punishment for the rest of the day," Optimus told his team. "Y...yes, Optimus. I understand," Smokescreen replied. "Hold on a sec. Last I recall, I'm not exactly a part of your little club, Prime," Wheeljack said. "I'll help you guys rebuild the town, but I ain't staying in V-Mode for the rest of the day. I still need to work on the Jackhammer." "Wheeljack, while you are on this world, it is best you follow my orders," Optimus said. "Yeah, whatever," Wheeljack scoffed. "Such a barbarian," Rarity muttered under her breath. "I'm glad you're all taking responsibily for this. I wouldn't have expected any less," Princess Celestia said, satisfied. "I want to let you all know, I still consider you my friends. I'm a little disappointed in your actions, but I know you all mean well." "Remember, all of you," Optimus stated to the others. "Upon this world, much like on Earth, we Autobots are Titans. Our power and abilities must be used with great care, and responsibly. Endangering others, be they Autobots, pinies, or humans, will NOT be tolerated." "YES SIR!" the rest of Team Prime respond. "Now then, let us begin with the reconstruction," Optimus said as Celestia and Twilight look at the Autobot leader. Twilight's felt an even greater admiration for Optimus. Little do any of them know, Soundwave was watching the entire time. He then transforms into his drone form and flies off. "Lord Megatron," Dreadwing reported. "Soundwave has returned." "Excellent," Megatron replied. They then see Soundwave walk into the bridge. Right as Soundwave entered he began to plug his tentacles into the computer console. Numerous images and videos from the day's events in Ponyville began appearing on the screen, as Megatron and the Decepticons looked on. "Ah, so these Autobots do have a weakness after all. They won't risk any harm to befall the ponies," A familiar female voice said from behind Megatron. "I would prefer that you not show unannounced....... Chrysalis," Megatron seethed. "Please, is that any way to treat your friend?" Chrysalis replied, as she walked up to the Decepticon leader. "Uhhggg. Those, bugs are back," Knockout muttered under his breath to a nearby Vehicon. "We are not FRIENDS, organic!" Megatron said in disgust. "You are merely my means of leaving this wretched planet." "Well, no matter. It looks like we can exploit this flaw which Optimus suffers from. His compassion for Celestia and her subjects, will be his downfall," Chrysalis cackled. "FOOL! Do you not realize I already have this information?! I've known Optimus for eons, of course we'll exploit this!" Megatron angrily answered. "I don't need YOU to explain that to me! Just be prepared to hold up your end of the bargain, and transport us back to Earth." "Well, I too have a plan of action," Chrysalis replied. "You see, Princess Celestia will be having her annual ball, known as the Grand Galloping Gala. My spies have already shown that the capitol of Canterlot will be protected by a powerful force field created by her most elite unicorn guard. I will infiltrate the Gala, and bring the shield down. Then you and your forces can invade." "I believe she is correct, my lord," Knockout stated. "There's a powerful energy field coming form their capital. Our weapons are currently still weakened from the crash." "So be it. Bring the force field down, and we will find this spell to return us home. But not before we gather the energon at the mountain," Megatron ordered. "Yes, my lord," Dreadwing answered. "Be ready to do your part, insect." "Of course, Mister Dreadwing," Chrysalis teased. Dreadwing simply grunted. "I also have some good news. The engines are fully repaired. We should achieve flight in a matter of hours." Knockout reported. "Ah, finally, some good news. Perhaps you're not such a failure after all, Knockout," Megatron said to the medic. "Dreadwing, prepare the troops."
Chapter 2Jasper, Nevada... On the long desert road, A large green SUV can be seen driving in the sunset, towards a large mountain face. Except this was no ordinary vehicle, it was no other, than the Autobot, Bulkhead. Inside Bulkhead, sitting in the passenger seat, is a young Japanese girl, named Miko Nakadai. "That was the best monster truck rally ever! Wouldn't you say so, Bulkhead?" Miko asked, still in a great mood after seeing the show the just had. "Sure was, Miko," Bulkhead answered. "How about you, Jackie?" Bulkhead spoke into his communicator. Somewhere, flying in the skies of Jasper, was the Autobot ship, the Jackhammer, with the Wrecker, Wheeljack, piloting it. "I've seen better," Wheeljack answered, "Though it was pretty entertaining. Humans, and their cars." "You should stop by the base more, Wheeljack," Miko said into the commuticator. "I'll pass for now," Wheeljack answered. "Besides, I heard Doc-Bot's still holding a grudge." "Aw, come on, Jackie," Bulkhead answered, "Ratchet's always a grouch, even when's he's in a GOOD mood. Don't take it personally." "Yeah," Miko added as she spoke into Bulkhead's radio. "We should totally hang out more. All three of us together, just like today." "I'd love to, I really do, but I still need to find a new source of Energon. Been kinda running low these days." Wheeljack's voice said over Bulkhead's radio. "Need to scout for some new deposits before the Cons get to it." "I hear that," Bulkhead replied. "Megatron's been hitting us hard lately. But good thing we got Smokescreen on the team now. You haven't met him yet, Jackie. He's impulsive, but he's a good kid." "I heard you didn't like him at first, Bulk," Wheeljack replied. "Nah, he's kinda grown on me," Bulkhead answered. "By the way, I'm just glad you made a full recovery after that run in with Hardshell. But as you heard, our junior Wrecker here, scrapped him pretty hard. She did ya proud, Bulk. I'm just glad I'm not burying another one of my old teammates." "Heh, cause no one messes with the Wreckers!" Bulkhead said, as Miko gives a thumbs up. "Anyways, we're about to reach home base. I'll catch you later, Jackie. Bulkhead out." "Later, Bulk. And kid, make sure he stays outta trouble will ya? You take care little Wrecker," Wheeljack said, as he cuts communication. "Very funny, Jackie," Bulkhead mumbled. As Bulkhead pulls into the Autobot base, he's immediately greeted by his new friend, Smokescreen, the Ne recruit to the team. "Heya, Bulkhead,. Enjoy the show?" Smokescreen said in a chipper mood. Miko exits Bulkhead as he transforms into robot mode. "Tonight was a BLAST, Smoke!" Miko answered. "You shoulda been there. You coulda met Wheeljack." "Sorry I had to miss the fun, but Bumblebee and I had to do some practice sparring, Optmus's orders," Smokescreen replied. "And you could have done it in some undisclosed location! Look at this place, it's a WRECK!" Ratchet, the team's grumpy medic, fumed. "Take it easy, Ratchet, I said I'll clean it up didn't I?" Smokescreen answered. Ironhide the tough, red weapon specialist, Sergeant Kup (looks like Ironhide, but green), Hot Shot (Young blue Autobot with flame details, and some orange red in robot mode, who fights and gets into trouble a lot, and he looks like Bumblebee, but with a different head and goggles that are not active right now), Arcee the blue, feminent Autobot, along with Jack, her human companion, and Rafael "Raf" Jorge Gonzales Esquivel, Bumblebee's human friend, were on the other side of the base watching the argument unfold. "You still have a lot to learn, kid," Arcee said. "Much like someone else around here, eh?" Ironhide smirked to everyone. Hot Shot realized what he heard. "Shut up," he said clenching his fists, as they hear Ratchet activate the ground bridge. Optimus Prime, the Autobot leader, Swerve, the big, dark red, bulky Energon miner, and Bumblebee stepped through. "Optimus," Jack called to the Autobot leader. "How did the Energon scouting mission go?" "It was a trap set by Soundwave. Megatron had created a decoy Energon beacon that led us astray. We were ambushed by the Decepticons, but we fought our way out. Barely," Optimus explained. "I wish there was real Energon," Swerve complained. Bumblebee gave his usual beeps and blips. "Indeed, Bumblebee. We must proceed with great caution on our next scouting trip." "Do any of you require medical attention?" Ratchet asked. Bumblebee gave a few beeps, as sits on Ratchets medical bed. "Hmm, several torn joints. But nothing I can't fix," Ratchet said as he examines Bumblebee's right arm. "I'm just glad you and Bee came back safely," Raf said to Optimus. "As are we, Rafael. Megatron has grown more desperate in the search for the Iacon Relics." Just then, several alarms begin blazing over the comm system. "Ratchet, report!" Optimus called. "I'm on it," Ratchet said as he finishes his patching on Bumblebee's arm. Ratchet begins to survey the computer terminal. He then sees something strange. "Optimus, I'm picking up extremely strong energy fluxes. It's happening.... RIGHT ABOVE THE BASE!" "What?" Arcee asked with concern. "You mean, we're under attack? Did the cons find the base?" Jack asked. "No, it's not caused by weapons fire, or Energon discharges. But rather, the energy signature, almost matches those.... of a Space Bridge portal," Ratchet said, slightly bewildered. "A portal not from the Decepticons?" Kup questioned. "Now I'm seeing everything." "How is that possible?" Optimus asked. "Autobots, we must investigate. Head topside." "I'll go with," Miko said, as Bulkhead stops her. "Park it, young lady," Bulkhead said as he and the other Autobots, except Ratchet, who's still monitoring the terminal, enter the elevator that takes them to the top of the mountain. "Uuuhhhh," Miko growled. She then watches Bulkhead, and the others ride the elevator topside, to the surface. Youtube Video As Optimus and the Bots step out of the elevator, they see something strange appearing in the sky right above them. It looked like a space bridge portal, except, it was purple. "Woah..." Hot Shot said in awe. "That looks like a portal," Smokescreen said. "Thanks for stating the obvious, kid," Arcee mumbled. "The question is, why is it here, and where does it go?" "I do not know, Arcee. But if this is Megatron's doing, we must be prepared for anything." Optimus replied. Just then they hear what sounded like a flying vehicle head towards them. As soon as it came into better view, Bulkhead immediately recognized it. "It's the Jackhammer. Jackie's here!" Bulkhead said in a happy tone. Arcee simply groaned and facepalmed. "Wheeljack? Why is HE here?!" Ratchet's voice angrily said over Optimus' communicator. As the Jackhammer touched down. Wheeljack exits and heads towards the rest of the Autobots. "Sweet!" a young sounding female voice said from behind Bulkhead. "Oh no," Bulkhead muttered as he turns around. He sees Miko standing behind him, with a huge grin on her face. "Miko! I told you to wait down below ground," Bulkhead said. "No way am I missing this reunion," Miko beamed. "So, looks like the gang's all here," Wheeljack said as he walks up to Optimus. "Indeed Wheeljack, while the others may object to your presence, I for one, will always welcome one of our Autobot brothers," Prime replied. "What are you even doing here in the first place?" Arcee hissed. "Arcee!" Hot Shot scolded at her. "Picked up a strange anomaly while cruising around. Just happened to be in the neighborhood," Wheeljack replied. "And you must be the new kid. Name's Wheeljack. You must be Smokescreen." "Yes sir!" Smokescreen saluted. "I can't believe it, You're Wheeljack, I mean, THE Wheeljack, one of the greatest Wreckers during the war." "You know your history kid," Wheeljack responded. "So, what is that thing up there anyway?" "We do not know currently. But Ratchet is still analyzing it," Optimus answered. "So, old grumps downstairs is still mad at me huh?" Wheeljack asked. "You have no Idea," Miko replied. "I heard that!" Ratchet fumed on the comm link. "Optimus, I'm picking up a huge energy spike coming from that portal." Just as Ratchet said that, the portal began to seemingly destabilize. Then a force of suction began eminating from it. The first one to be sucked towards it was Arcee, as she flies through the air towards it. Bumblebee immediately grabs hold of her, but the pull from the vortex begins to grow stronger. "That thing is trying to pull us in!" Ironhide said. "Everyone, head underground NOW!" Optimus ordered. "Optimus, what's happening?" Ratchet asked over the comm. "Ratchet, the portal is destabilizing. It's beginning to draw us towards it." Optimus replied. "Optimus, you and the others need to get out of there, NOW!" Ratchet yelled. Bumblebee held onto Arcee as best as he could, until he too was pulled off the ground. Smokescreen and Bulkhead immediately went to their aid. But soon the pull was so strong, that even they were lifted. Optimus latched onto them, but soon he was airborn as well. Kup and Hot Shot came to pull him down, but went up. Ironhide and Swerve tried to pull on them, but they went in the air as well. Wheeljack immediately boarded the Jackhammer, and flew towards the rest of the Autobots. "Grab on!" he called, as Optimus and the others clamped their hands onto the Jackhammer's hull. However the pull had become too great. The Jackhammer was inching closer and closer to the portal. Wheeljack fired full thruster burn on his ship. But it was futile. The whole time Miko watched from the top of the base, hiding behind a large rock she clamped onto, preventing her from being pulled in as well. She watched in horror as the Jackhammer, even at full thruster burn, was eventually pulled into the portal, with all of the Autobots on it. She felt her stomach turn as the portal disappeared. They were gone. In the skies over Nevada, a large monstrosity of a ship was flying. It was the Nemesis, the Decepticon Warship, and Megatron's personal mobile base. "So it appears that Optimus escaped the trap we laid out for him. No matter, perhaps it was for the best. As I intend to crush Optimus Prime, with my own two hands," Megatron said to his communications officer, Soundwave. Just then, several alarms began to go off throughout the ship. "Report," Megatron ordered. "Lord Megatron," Knockout, the Con medic said, "We are picking up a strange energy flux." "Well, what of it?" Megatron asked. "Umm.. *ahem* right in front of the ship," Knockout replied nerviously. "WHAT?" Megatron fumed. as he turns on the viewscreen. What he sees, is the ship, headed towards a giant purple vortex. "ALL HANDS, FULL REVERSE!" Megatron ordered. "The navigation controls are not responding my lord," Dreadwing, the second in command of the Decepticons replied. "And the engines are beginning to burn out." Multiple Vehicons, and Insecticons scrambled to their stations in an attempt to assess the situation. "Whatever this is Lord Megatron, It's shorting out all of our systems. We can't break free of the vortex's pull," Knockout reported. "No! Find a way to get us out of this mess Knockout!" Megatron seethed. "It's too late, we're too close!" Thundercracker, one of Megatron's top soldiers next to Dreadwing and his identical purple and gray twin, Skywarp, replied. Megatron turns to see the ship coming close. "Brace yourselves!" Skywarp yelled. The Nemesis then enters the vortex, and dissappears. As the Jackhammer exits the vortex portal, it begins to lose control. "I'm losing altitude fast!" Wheeljack called out. The Jackhammer began to spin in the air. "Everyone hold on!" Optimus called to the others, still gripping onto the hull of the ship. "Wheeljack, is there anything you can do?" Arcee yelled. "Only to hope the landing won't frag us all," Wheeljack answered. "I'm too young to go offline!" Swerve yelled. "You and me both," Hot Shot replied. As the Jackhammer continued to careen out of control, Bumblebee loses his grip, and falls off the ship. "BEE!" Smokescreen called out in horror. "NO!" Hot Shot yelled at the same time. As Bumblebee fell, he braced himself for impact. Fairly soon. BOOM! He hits the ground hard. As Bumblebee comes to, he begins to sit up, and very groggly looks at his surrondings. For a moment he is too dazed to figure out how he got here, or even what happened. Then it all comes back to him. He and the rest of the Autobots were pulled through a vortex. He had fallen off the Jackhammer, and landed somewhere unfamiliar to him. But what Bumblebee sees next, was something he never expected in his life. Six multicolored equine lifeforms, looking at him. (It's my friends, the Mane 6) Bumblebee didn't know what to do, as he was very confused about the situation. Maybe he hit his head too hard on impact. He began to beep and blip to himself, when suddenly what happened next shocked him even more. The purple one, with both a horn on her head, and wings on her back spoke to him. It TALKED! "Umm, Welcome to Equestria?" Twilight said in an awkward smile.
Chapter 3In the secluded area right outside of Ponyville, three miles from Fluttershy's cottage, a meeting of first contact had been made between the Ponies of Equestria, and an Autobot, from Cybertron. Inside the crater, where Bumblebee had crash landed, the six bearers of the Elements of Harmony are now gathered around the Autobot scout, who is now sitting cross legged, and looking at the ponies. "So, um, shouldn't we like, ask where he came from?" Rainbow Dash said to Twilight. "Well, I don't know where he came from, but we know EXACTLY how he got here," Rarity fumed. "Sweetie Belle, always causing trouble where ever she goes." Bumblebee, kept eyeing the six strange looking ponies, the whole time, trying to make sense of the situation. He never imagined equines could speak, at least never on Earth. He then realized, he may no longer BE on Earth! As the horses and ponies from that particular planet were not sapient, let alone capable of speech. "Um, so, who you are, and where do you hail from, good sir?" Twilight politely addressed the giant robotic visitor. "My Name is Princess Twilight Sparkle," she introduced her self, her wings fluttering a bit out of excitement, as she then points to each of her friends. "And these are my friends, Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy." Bumblebee could only think of one thing at this point.... "who in the Allspark NAMED them?!" Bumblebee responded in his usual electronic bleeps and blips. The Mane 6 were puzzled by his sounds. "Oh the poor thing, he's unable to speak," Rarity said. "Or maybe it's some foreign language," Twilight added. "Um, yeah, he CAN talk. He just said his name was Bumblebee," Pinkie Pie explained. Twilight seemed to get it. Then she realized! "Wait, Pinkie Pie, you can understand him?" Twilight asked. "How?" "Twi, it's Pinkie Pie. Never question it, or think about it too much. You'll go crazy. Trust me," Rainbow Dash said to the alicorn princess. "What kind of a weird name is Bumblebee anyway?" Rainbow Dash smirked. Bee gave a number of high pitched chirping noises. "Well, he just said, What kind of name is Rainbow Dash?" Fluttershy translated. "HEY! What's that supposed to mean?" Dash angrily yelled, then she realized something. "Fluttershy? You can understand him too?" "Oh yes," the timid little pegasus replied. "I don't know why but I can make out what he's saying. I guess my ability to talk to animals, and other creatures naturally helps out." "Well, I guess that makes sense," Twilight added. "Bumblebee is it? Well I think the name suits you very well my dear," Rarity said to the Autobot. "Especially with that black and yellow scheme. Simply marvelous. Your colors are quite lovely." Underneath his mouth plate, Bumblebee was smiling to the compliment the fashionista had given him. "And let's not forget those cool wings on your back. I bet you can fly really really FAST!" Pinkie Pie squealed. Bumblebee responded with more beeps. "Oh, I see," Fluttershy said. "What did he say?" Applejack asked. "Well, he said those aren't wings, and he can't fly. Those are actually, um, doors." The ponies were slightly dumbfouded by this. "Doors, to what, sugarcube?" Applejack asked. Bumblebee gave an electronic response. "He says he'll show us," Pinkie Pie translated. To the ponies' astonishment, Bumblebee's body began to shift and change, like a giant puzzle. Before they knew it, he had transformed into what looked like a strange carriage like vehicle. He then opens his driver side door to show the ponies his interior. "Oh I get it, DOORS! Funny Joke!" Pinkie Pie began to laugh. Wow, that was AWESOME!" Rainbow Dash beamed. "So ya turn into a carriage? But I don't see where anypony can pull ya," Applejack stated. Bumblebee felt slightly insulted by the comment. He responded with another round of electronic buzzes. "He said it's not a carriage, but a very mint muscle car. What ever that is," Fluttershy translated. "A car?" Twilight stated as she took a closer look. Her eyes then widened, and her wings extended. A large smile then appeared on her face. "It really IS a car! Oh my goodness, I haven't seen one of these since I was in the mirror universe. Flash Sentry's counterpart of that dimension owned one. How EXCITING!" the alicorn princess explained with enthusiasm. The rest of the ponies simply looked at her with puzzled expressions. "Umm, Egghead..... what's a car?" Rainbow Dash asked. "A car... Also known as an automobile. A self propelled motor vehicle powered by a fossil fuel engine used for long distance locomotion at high speeds. It's one of the many technological wonders from the alternate world such as television, airplanes, cellular phones, computers, and the internet." As Twilight finished her short lecture, the rest of the girls looked more confused than ever. "Uhh, I think ya lost us there, sugarcube," Applejack said. Bumblebee then revved engine loudly, showing the power of a motorized vehicle. This caused Fluttershy to jump behind Rarity, while Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie inched closer in wonder. Pinkie then laid her head on Bumblebee's hood, as it vibrated. "HEEEEEYYYY!!!! THIIIIIIIISSSS MAAAAAAKEESSSS MMMMMYYYYY VOOOOOIIIIIIICCCCEEE SOOOOOUUUNNNNDD SIIIIIIIIIIIILLLLLLLYYYYYYY!!!!!" "Pinkie, stop that," Twilight said while annoyed by her antics. Bumblebee then transforms back into robot mode. He couldn't help, but find the one called Pinkie Pie, funny as he began to make a high pitched sound. "Aww, he's laughing! I'm glad I made you happy," Pinkie beamed at him. "So, Bumblebee, where did you come from, and how is it you turn into a car? I have so many questions," Twilight asked. Bumblebee began to respond in his usual electronic noises for a good minute or two, then he seemingly finished. "Oh I see, very interesting," Fluttershy said. "Flutters? Translation?" Rainbow interjected. "He says he's from the planet Cybertron, and that their homeworld is no longer inhabitable because of a long war. Oh how terrible. But he did say that he and the other Autobots are now living on a planet called Earth," Fluttershy explained. "Earth? What kind of a name is that for a world? You'd might as well called it Dirt," Rainbow Dash said. "Stop being so rude Rainbow Dash! He's a guest on our world. I swear, sometimes you can be so childish." Rarity hissed. "So he's an alien. That's mighty interestin'," Applejack said. "Yeah, like something out of the comics I've seen Scootaloo read," Rainbow Dash added. She then turned her attention to Twilight. "Hey Twilight! When you went to that other world through the mirror, did the aliens there look like Bumblebee?" Rainbow asked. "No, I can't say that they do. I mean, his stature and shape looks similar to the inhabitants of that dimension, but they're not giants made of metal. He must be from another world beside the one through the mirror," Twilight explained with a smile on her face. "Fascinating! I didn't think there were other inhabited worlds besides that one." "Well on with his story," Fluttershy continued. "He says he's a soldier in the Autobot army." "Soldier? You're not here to invade us, are you?" Rainbow Dash said while in a boxing stance. Bumblebee gave a quick response with several beeps and blips. "No, he says Autobots don't invade. They defend and protect," Fluttershy translated. "Well, ain't everyday we get to meet a metal alien warrior from another world," Applejack said with astonishment. Bumblebee responded again. "He says he's no great warrior. But a scout, mostly," Pinkie translated for the others. Bumblebee then gave a long winded speech with his sounds, as Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie listened intently. "Oh my..... He says he's been separated from the rest of his squad," Fluttershy explained. "He fell off the ship he was on when they came to our world. He needs to find them." "Of course we'll help you, Bee. And then I'm gonna throw the biggest WELCOME TO PONYVILLE GIANT ALIEN ROBOT party for you and your friends!" Pinkie Pie added. "Well the question is, how do we find them?" Twilight asked the Autobot. Bumblebee looked at his right arm, then pressed something. His forearm turned into a computer screen, as Twilight and the others looked in awe. He then began to speak in his electronic voice again. "Oooohh, he says this is called a locator beacon, whatever that is, it'll help him find the other Autobots," Pinkie translated. Several red dots appeared on the viewscreen of his computer, as Bumblebee spoke again. "So those dots are your friends?" Fluttershy asked. Bumblebee simply nodded. "Ok then, girls. Let's go search for these other visitors. I'm sure they can't be hard to miss. Especially if they're giant robots like Bumblebee here," Twilight explained as she rallied the others. "That thing looks like a cool map," Rainbow Dash said as Bumblebee responded with his usual sounds. "That's because he said it is. And I think I'm kind of figuring it out. So this is where we are," Fluttershy said. "And that area where the other red dots are happens to be..... Oh, my...." "What is ever the matter, Fluttershy?" Rarity asked in concern. "That's...... The Everfree Forest!" Fluttershy shrieked. The girls looked at each other, and all of them gulped hard. Oh this probably can't be good.
Chapter 4"What do you mean, they just disappeared?" Agent Fowler yelled while on Ratchet's viewscreen. "I mean, that a strange vortex portal has taken Optimus, and the others, to parts unknown," Ratchet replied. "So you're telling me, that some freak of a black hole, just randomly appeared over the base, and sucked Prime and the others away? JUST LIKE THAT?!!!" Fowler angrily screamed. "Yes, Agent Fowler, that is exactly the case," Ratchet said in a forboding tone. "That's it! I'm heading over there NOW. And you better not be blowing smoke up my backside. Fowler out!" The view screen switches off, as Agent Fowler hangs up. "So what happened out there?" Jack asked Miko, who was still shaken by the events that transpired. "I don't know, this thing appeared over them in the sky. They were all on Wheeljack's ship, when it got sucked through, it disappeared," Miko explained, with tears in her eyes. "Ratchet, do you have any idea where the portal could have taken them?" Raf asked the Autobot Medic. "I fear, that, I do not know," Ratchet said grimly. "That portal could have sent them anywhere in the galaxy, or even to another one far away." Raf, looked at Ratchet, with worry in his eyes. "Guys, we can't give up hope," Jack said to the others. "There has to be a way. Ratchet, can't you track them? I mean, you can right?" "I will try. Optimus...... Please, be alright." In the Ponyville Library, Spike and Sweetie Belle were bored, VERY bored. "It's not fair, I wanted to see the crashed meteor too," Spike said to the filly. "I'm also worried about Fluttershy. I hope she's ok." "Me too Spike," the unicorn filly replied. "I never get to go on an adventure with Rarity. Well, except for the gem hunt earlier, but still. She gets to have all these exciting moments happen." They were both interrupted by a knock on the door. "Are they back?" Spike wondered as he goes to answer. When he opens the door, it wasn't Twilight, but another familiar pony he knows from his early years. It's Shining Armor! "Shining Armor!" Spike called out. "Hi, Spike. It's great to see you again, little bro," Shining Armor replied. "Where's Twily? Cadence and I are both visiting Ponyville this week. We wanted to surprise her." "Oh, well, she's out. It's just me and Sweetie Belle here," Spike answered. "Hey there. I remember you from the wedding. Your Rarity's little sister, right? You were also one of the flower girls." "That's me!" Sweetie Belle squeaked. "Anyways, can you two tell me where Twily went?" "Sure," Spike responded. "She's over near the edge of Ponyville by Fluttershy's cottage. The others are with her. They're investigating some sort of meteor crash." "A meteor crash? Sounds exciting," Shining Armor said as he takes his leave. "Thanks, and I'll see you later little bro." "Good to see you again, Shiny," Spike waved as Shining Armor took his leave. As Bumblebee and the Mane 6 reach the edge of the Everfree Forest, he notices the ponies beginning to grow nervous. Bumblebee, in his electronic voice begins to ask if everything was ok. "Well, you see, Bumblebee," Fluttershy began to respond, "This is the Everfree Forest. It's a very dangerous, and scary place. All sorts of monsters and creatures live in there. The place is very wild." "Yeah, and super duper creepy. But it is the place where I found the mirror pool," Pinkie Pie added. "Let's not go there, sugarcube," Applejack interrupted, "I'd like not to remember that incident." Bumblebee checks his wristmounted viewscreen again, to see the Autobots signals are still showing the rest of Team Prime deep in the forest. "Well, no time like the present. Let's get going, girls. Bumblebee, please lead the way," Twilight said to the others, as they begin their trek into the forest. "Ahh, geez," Wheeljack mumbled as the rest of the Autobots stand around the downed Jackhammer. "Engines are gonna take some time for me to repair it. At least she'll still be flyable later." "In the meantime," Arcee added. "We need to find out where we are, and most importantly, find Bee." "Agreed," Optimus said. "We must assess our current predicament, and our location. And search for our missing comrade." "I'll see if I can locate him," Bulkhead said as he also turns on his locater beacon. "Scrap, I can't get a signal. How about you guys?" "Nope," Hot Shot said with his. "Nothing," Smokescreen said. "Don't look at me," Swerve answered. "Nadda," Ironhide replied. "Uh-uh," Kup said with his. "Not even a blip," Arcee answered. "I think that crash did a number on us. At least the communicators work, albeit, short range only." Optimus also turns on his locater, his seems to be functioning slightly. He notices his own position as well as the others around him, but at the same time, a faint blip off in the distance. It had to be Bumblebee. "I believe I have his coordinates," Optimus said. "Autobots, transform, and roll out." "You guys do that," Wheeljack said, as he continues to conduct his repairs on his ship. "Arcee, stay with Wheeljack, and assist him in repairing the ship. Also, provide him with cover if he comes under attack," Optimus said to the female Autobot. "You want me to babysit the cowboy?" Arcee objected. "I want you to work with him. Autobots should not be feuding or holding grudges against each other," Optimus explained. "Like him or not, he is an Autobot. I will not leave one by himself in unfamiliar territory. You will be his backup. That is an order." "Yes sir," Arcee said. "Yeah yeah, whatever," Wheeljack said as he continues to work on the Jackhammer. The rest of the Bots transform, and drive off. As they continue to travel in vehicular form, they notice something large flying overhead through the clearing of the trees. All of the bots quickly transform. "Cons?" Smokescreen asked as he turns his hands into blasters. Upon closer look, the gigantic flying object wasn't the Decepticon warship, but a giant reptilian creature, with spines on it's back, a large wingspan, and a very long tail. The Autobots couldn't believe their optics. "Whoa!" Bulkhead yelled to the group. "Was that a Predacon?" "Can't be," Smokescreen answered "They're supposed to be extinct!" "I do not believe so, as the creature looked far too organic," Optimus stated as Smokescreen turns his arms to normal. "Suffice to say, It appears that we are currently no longer on Earth. Such a being, cannot possibly be indigenous to the Human world. The portal must have brought us to another planet." "This is gonna be a problem, then. Still, we have to find Bee," Bulkhead added. "Agreed," Optimus replied. As Optimus said this, suddenly the computer screen on his wrist shorts out. Seeing that the locater is now useless, he transforms his arm back to it's normal state. "It appears we must find Bumblebee the old fashioned way." Optimus said, "Bulkhead, take Smokescreen with you and head north." "Understood, Optimus." Bulkhead replied. "I won't let you down." Smokescreen saluted. "Kup, you, Hot Shot, Ironhide, and Swerve will search in another direction," Optimus said. "Yes, Optimus," Kup answered as Ironhide, Hot Shot, and Swerve nodded. "Try to stay in communication range. Our radio is currently short range only," Optimus ordered. "We will cover more ground this way. Move out." As Bumblebee continues to lead the ponies towards the other Autobots, his locater suddenly shorts out. "What happened?" Twilight asked. Bumblebee responds with his beeps. "His locater thingamajig just busted," Pinkie Pie said to the others. "He said it took some damage in the crash." "Great, so how are we gonna find the other aliens now?" Rainbow Dash complained. "Well, I guess we head in the general direction of where the dots were before his equipment failed," Twilight explained. "Ooh, I'll find them!" Pinkie Pie shouted in excitement as she bolts off. "Pinkie Pie, no! Come back here! We need to stay together!" Twilight shouted. "I'll get her!" Applejack said as she takes off after her. AJ, not you too!" Twilight groaned. Before they knew it, both Earth ponies had disappeared into the woods. "I'll fly up and find them," Rainbow Dash said as she takes off into the sky. She suddenly felt a tug on her tail. "Not without me, you're not! I'm not letting you out in these horrid woods all by yourself," Rarity said, using her magic to grab Dash's tail. "Fine, climb on!" Rainbow Dash said, as Rarity climbed onto her back. She then takes off to the air and flies off. "Great, now those two are gone." Twilight grumbled. "Well I guess it's just us, right Fluttershy and Bumblebee?" Bumblebee then begins to feel a sharp pain, he clutches his side, and falls over. "Oh no, what's wrong?" Fluttershy asked in concern. Bumblebee responds in his usual electronic language. "I see, you're injured from that fall," Fluttershy said. She then turns to Twilight. "I don't think he can go on too long. He needs to rest and recover." "Alright, Fluttershy. Go ahead and take him back to your cottage. And make sure nopony else sees him. I don't want a panic to start." "Got it Twilight," Fluttershy responded. "Come on now Bumblebee, you need to recuperate." Bumblebee gives a few beeps in objection. "Please you need to stop before you hurt yourself even more." Bumblebee gives another cluster of beeps and blips. "Don't worry, the girls know the forest pretty well. They'll find your friends. Trust me." Bee shakes his head slightly, but then gives in. So he starts to get up. "There, it won't be so bad. I promise," Fluttershy said to him, as they begin to backtrack to her home. "Are you sure you'll be ok by yourself Twilight? I really don't like leaving you here on your own, especially in the scary Everfree Forest," Fluttershy asked with concern. "It's ok Fluttershy. I make journeys through here pretty often whenever I go to visit Zecora. I'll be fine," Twilight answered. This slightly eased the pegasus' fear, but she still couldn't help but worry. The pair then began to make their way back to Fluttershy's house. As Rainbow Dash flies through the air, Rarity was holding on for dear life. "Slow Down, Rainbow Dash! I'm slipping! WWWAAAAAHHHH!!!!" "Heh, too fast for ya Rares?" Rainbow joked. "This isn't funny. Somepony could get hurt. And these g-forces are ruining my mane." "Fine," Rainbow Dash dejectedly said, as she slows down a bit. "There, much better. You see? You CAN be a civilized pony. Doesn't it feel good?" Rarity asked. "More like boring," Dash muttered. As they fly through the air, they see a number of downed trees, it looked like something had plowed through the ground. "Hey, what's that?" Rainbow Dash asked as she flies closer to it. "Dash, Darling, I don't think it to be wise.... AAAAAHHHHH!!!" Rainbow Dash zips towards what appears to be a crash site. As they get closer, they see something that surprised them. A large metal object, and two more robots around it. One looked like it was doing some kind of work on the metal thing, while the other was just pacing back and forth. "Whoa, I think we found them," Rainbow Dash said as she lands behind a large rock to hide as Rarity dismounts her. "Indeed," Rarity replied. "So now what do we do?" "I don't know," Rainbow answered her. "Well, this forest air is doing quite the number on my sinuses," Rarity said, as she feels a sneeze coming on. "Oh no, Rarity, don't...." "Ah..." "Rarity...." "Ah..." "NO!" "CHOOO!!!" As Arcee continued to watch Wheeljack work on the Jackhammer, she began to groan to herself. "I can't believe Optimus just put me on curbside duty," she complained. "Especially being stuck with an insubordinate." "You know, I can hear you as clear as day," Wheeljack replied. "I wasn't talking to you!" Arcee snapped. "Well, I'm the only other bot here. Unless you like talking to yourself," Wheeljack teased as he then resumes to repairing the Jackhammer. Arcee sighed and rolled her eyes. Wheeljack then hears something behind him. A sneeze. "What was that?" he said as he draws one of his swords out. "Don't know. I'm checking it out," Arcee said As she moves forward towards the rock, with her blaster hands drawn, she sees movement behind it. "I know you're there, come out now!" she ordered. Knowing they've been caught, Rainbow Dash and Rarity slowly emerge from behind the rock. "Umm, hi there," Rainbow Dash greets the female Bot. Arcee, was at a loss. "What the? What, are you?" "Uhh, my name's Rainbow Dash, I'm a pegasus pony. And this is my friend, Rarity, she's a unicorn." "A pleasure to meet you," Rarity said in elegance. "I see. Yeah, Wheeljack, I don't think we're on Earth anymore," Arcee said as she turns her blasters back into her hands. Wheeljack walks up with his sword drawn. "Easy there cowboy, I don't think they're hostile," Arcee said as Wheeljack puts way his sword. "So you guys can talk normally. For a sec there, I thought you'd also be speaking in bleeps and blips like Bumblebee," Rainbow said. "Bumblebee? YOU KNOW WHERE HE IS?" Arcee said in shock. "Yes, he's with our friends," Rarity answered. "Is he alright?" Wheeljack asked. "He's in good hooves. My friends are the most trustworthy ponies in all of Equestria," Rainbow said to the bots. "Thank Primus," Arcee said with relief. "So Equestria, is this the world we're on?" "You could say that," Rainbow Dash answered. "Well, my name's Arcee, and this big jerk here, is Wheeljack." "Thanks, Cee," Wheeljack muttered. "Cool, well, if you follow us, we should take you straight to your friend," Rainbow directed as they start heading down. After a bit of a walk, Fluttershy and Bumblebee finally made it back to the cottage. Bumblebee sits down and begins to rest, as he sees Fluttershy playing with a bunch of animals. He addresses her with his electronic tongue. "Oh, well, I'm a caretaker of these animals. They're my very good friends," Fluttershy answered. Bumblebee nodded, and bleeped again in conversation. "How, well, I'm not sure why I can understand what you're saying, but I've always had this ability to communicate with animals. Maybe it has something to do with it." Bumblebee stares at Fluttershy in wonder. Was she like Raf? He wondered. Maybe they share some sort of connection. Bumblebee gently pets her. This calms her down. For a giant metal robot, he was quite gentle towards her. One of the bunnies around Fluttershy then hops up to the Autobot. "Oh, I think she likes you. Go ahead, pick her up," she tells him. Bumblebee gently scoops the small animal into his hand. "That's Snowflake. She's a bunny that was hurt. But now she's all better and ready to go home." As they continue to converse, they hear someone approaching. "Bumblebee, quick, hide!" Bee sets the bunny down, transforms into vehicle mode, and hides behind Fluttershy's house. As the figure approaches, it's revealed to be Shining Armor. "Hello, Fluttershy, I'm visiting Ponyville this week with Cadence. Is Twily here? I was told she's at your place investigating some meteor crash." "Oh, good afternoon, Shining Armor," Fluttershy responded. "It's good to see you again." "It's great to see you too," Shining Armor said. "So where's Twily and the others?" "Oh, in the Everfree Forest, searching for the, umm, meteor crash, yes, that's it," Fluttershy nevously replied. "What? They're in that Celestia forsaken forest?" Shining Armor gasped. "I need to find them. NOW! Hang on Twily, you're BBBFF is on his way!" "WAIT!!!" Fluttershy called out, but Shining Armor had already galloped towards the forest. "Oh no, I didn't want him to find out about the aliens just yet. Bumblebee what am I going to do?" Bumblebee drives back from behind the cottage, and transforms back into robot mode. He simply picks up Fluttershy, and holds her, as they both watch the Unicorn head into the forest.
Chapter 5"So," Arcee said as she and Wheeljack walked behind Rainbow Dash and Rarity as they moved through the forest. "This world, Equestria, is it? Is populated by sentient horses?" "Actually, we're ponies. Horses are bigger," Rainbow Dash answered. Wheeljack was puzzled. "I didn't think ponies were able to talk," he said. "Of course we can talk, we're not mindless animals," Rarity snapped. "So where'd you guys come from?" Rainbow asked. "Some portal sucked us into this world," Arcee told her. "A weird accident or something." "Well, I certainly have an idea," Rarity added. "Sweetie Belle got a hold of some strange blue crystal. It apparently intensifies unicorn magic." "Magic?" Wheeljack muttered. "Please, like I'm gonna believe some mystical voodoo brought us here." "Well, you certainly are rude," Rarity snapped at the Autobot. "I'm a Wrecker, it comes with the job," Wheeljack replied as Rarity rolls her eyes. "Come on, Wheeljack," Arcee said to him. "It's not unheard of. I mean, the power of the Primes consists of SOME mysticism." "Blah blah, not interested. Just need to get back to Earth, so we can start crushing some more Cons," Wheeljack responded. "Such a ruffian!" Rarity muttered. "Rainbow Dash right? So where do we go from here?" Arcee asked. "Right up this way, Arcee," Rainbow Dash answered. "I'm have a good hunch they'll be meeting back at Fluttershy's home." "Hmm, might be better if we traveled on wheels," And with that statement, Arcee transformed into her motorcycle form. "So you can turn into those self propelled vehicles too. And a bike! Awesome!" Rainbow remarked. "You look like a speedster. Wanna race?" "Another time, kid. Just lead the way. Need a lift?" "Nah, I got my wings. I'll fly ahead. Rarity, I think will need one." Wheeljack also transformed into his car form. "Wheeljack, give her a ride," Arcee commanded. "Yeah yeah, climb in toots," Wheeljack said to the unicorn as he opened his door. "Toots? WHY I NEVER!!" Rarity fumed. "Of all the impolite...." "Rarity, just get inside, or we're leaving you here," Rainbow Dash yelled. "Uhh, if you insist," she responded as she climbed into Wheeljack's open door. He then closes it behind her. "You simply MUST do something about these seats. The colors are atrocious. And the decor can certainly see some improvement," she started nitpicking at Wheeljack's interior. "This... is gonna be a LOOOONG trip," Wheeljack said to himself. "Hey Bulkhead, anything yet?" Smokescreen asked the big green bot. "Not a single thing. I don't know if we'll ever find him this way," Bulkhead replied to the rookie. "Well, we can't give up. I just wanna prove to Optimus I'm a capable Autobot." "Kid, you'll be fine. Optimus isn't judgemental about anyone under his command. As long as you do your part, and pull your weight. You'll be ok," Bulkhead reassured him. "I just hope Bumblebee is alright," Smokescreen said as he looked towards the sky. Then suddenly.... "HI THERE!" A high pitched voice called out. The two Autobots instantly froze in place, then readied their blaster arms. "Who's there?!" Smokescreen demanded. "Show yourself!" "I'm over here!" the voice said. Smokescreen and Bulkhead turned towards the direction. "I don't get it," Bulkhead stated. "I don't see anything." "Look down!" the voice said again. Both bots lower their heads downward and see, A little equine, with pink fur, a pink poofy mane, big blue eyes, and a grin on it's face. It was hopping in place happily. (Iiiit's Pinkie Pie) The two Autobots deactivated their weapons and looked down in confusion. "BAH WEEP GRANAH WEEP NINI BONG!" the pink equine said in a high pitched tone as she waved her hoof at the Bots. "Umm... What??" Bulkhead said in confusion as he scratched his head. "But, I thought everypony knew the universal greeting...." the pink little creature said in a slightly disappointed tone. "Whoa, did that horse just talk?" Smokescreen asked. "I didn't know horses could talk!" "They can't kid, at least not on Earth. This proves what Optimus said earlier. We're definately NOT on Earth anymore," Bulkhead said to the younger bot. "Of course I can talk. It would be silly if I couldn't! And I'm not a horse, I'm a Pony!" "Uuhh, yeah..." Bulkhead said while scratching his head in confusion. "Um, so if we're not on Earth anymore, where are we?" Smokescreen asked. "WELCOME TO EQUESTRIA!" the pink pony beamed. "I'm gonna throw you guys the biggest welcome party it'll make it into the history books! I can't wait!" The little pony then suddenly bursts into song..... Youtube Video Both bots look at her with puzzled expressions. "What, just happened?" Bulkhead asked, confused of where the music seemed to appear from nowhere, as Smokescreen simply shrugged, but with a smile on his face. The rookie was genuinely amused by the antics. "Well now that I sang my welcome song, the next step is to make friends. I'm Pinkie Pie, who are you?" Pinkie asked the visitors. "At least the locals are friendly," Smokescreen said to the wrecker. "Name's Smokescreen." "Hi, Smokescreen! You guys are my new friends, I LOVE making new friends! So why are you aliens here, are here to be our friends? Or are you here to invade us? Or eat us? Or stick a probe up our...." "PINKIE PIE, THERE YOU ARE!" another voice yelled from behind the woods. As Pinkie and the Bots look to see the source of the voice, they see another pony galloping towards them. This one was orange, with a blonde mane. She was also wearing a cowboy hat, and her voice had a southern accent in it. (It's Applejack) "Ooh ooohh, APPLEJACK! I found them, I FOUND THEM! The cool giant alien robots!" Smokescreen couldn't help but begin to laugh. Pinkie Pie was just very amusing. "NAILED IT!" Pinkie shouted. "I made another one smile today!" "Another one?" Smokescreen asked. "Who are you talking about?" "Bumblebee!" Pinkie answered. "You guys must be his friends. He's our friend, and if you're his friend, then your my friend too." "BUMBLEBEE?!!" both Bulkhead and Smokescreen said in unison. "Is he alright? Where is he?" Bulkhead asked. "He's A-OK! A little battered up from the fall he took, but otherwise just fine!" Relieved, the two Bots high five each other. "Thank the Allspark. And thank you for taking care of him," Bulkhead said to the pink pony. "Aww, think nothing of it," she smiled back at them. "Well, I'll be a polecat on a farm range!" Applejack said as she walked up to the bots. "So ya did find em', Pinkie. These boys sure are big, especially the green one." "Aren't they cool looking?" Pinkie Pie beamed, who's already now riding on Smokescreen's shoulder. Applejack walks up to Bulkhead. "You look like you can give Big Macintosh a run for is bits!" she greeted the bot. "Umm, thanks.... I think?" he responded. "Well shoot, where are my manners. I'm Applejack, What's yer name stranger?" "Bulkhead." "Well, it's mighty fine to meet ya, Bulkhead." "YAY! Smokescreen and Bulkhead! Our newest friends!" Pinkie Pie shouted, as Smokescreen continued to laugh at her antics. "I like you already, Pinkie Pie!" Smokescreen said to the pony, which made her smile even more. "So, you think you can take us to Bumblebee? I need to contact Optimus about this, and Let both Arcee and Jackie know too," Bulkhead said. "Sure! It's right this way, partner!" Applejack pointed off in a direction. "Lead the way," Smokescreen said, as Pinkie hopped on his shoulder, happy as ever that she made friends with a giant alien robot. Then they start walking down. "Optimus, come in. Optimus, do you read?" Bulkhead called into his communicator, but there was static. "Scrap, he must be out of range." "Let me try the others," Smokescreen said. He then uses his communicator to radio Arcee and Wheeljack. "Arcee, Wheeljack, do any of you guys read?" Arcee comes to an immediate stop. "Rainbow Dash, hold up, I'm getting a signal. Someone's on the commlink!" she said as she transforms back into robot mode. "Huh? What's going on?" Rainbow Dash asked. "This is Arcee, come in." "Hey Arcee, it's Smokescreen. We just ran into some locals of this world. And after meeting them, chances are good, we're not on Earth anymore. You're probably not gonna believe me when I describe them to you." "Try me, kid." "Well, they're talking ponies. Crazy, right?" "Not really, Wheeljack and I came into contact with some ourselves." "Really? Well, at least Bulk and I aren't going crazy. I dunno how we're gonna tell Hot Shot, Ironhide, Swerve and Kup. Anyways, they said they know about Bumblebee. They found him, and apparently he's safe," Smokescreen said over the commlink. "The ones we met said the same thing. The ponies you met probably know the ones we ran into," Arcee answered. "So we're all on the same page? That's great to hear," Smokescreen said. Rainbow Dash flies up to Arcee's wrist. "So that thing's like a radio? That's pretty cool," she said. "It's our communicator. We use it to contact each other when we're separated." "We tried to radio Optimus, but I think he's out of range. You have any luck?" Smokescreen asked. "I'll give it a shot," Arcee answered. She then opens a new channel. "Arcee to Optimus, do you read? Optimus come in." Also static. "Scrap," Arcee muttered. "No luck either." "Don't worry we'll meet up with him eventually. The good news is, Bumblebee's ok," Smokescreen said. "I'm glad, too," Arcee answered. Then they hear a high pitched sounding female voice on the other side. "OOH, are calling your mothership? Can I see it? How big is it?" "Huh? That sounded like... Hey Arcee, can I speak into your com-thing real quick?" Rainbow Dash asked Before Arcee could answer, Rainbow had already landed on her wrist where her comlink is. "Pinkie Pie, is that you? It's me, Rainbow Dash!" "OOOHHHH, DASHIE! So you found some cool robot friends, too!" "Yeah, Rarity and I had a run in. We're taking them to see Bumblebee now. I have a good bet Fluttershy probably took him back to the cottage. She's terrified of this forest after all." "Okie Dokie Loki!" Pinkie responded, "Then we'll meet you there. By the way who's with you?" "Well besides Arcee, this cool bot who happens to be a girl-bot, and another guy called Wheeljack, Rarity's with me." "And I'm with Applejack. The guy I'm riding on is Smokescreen, and Applejack is walking next to this big guy named Bulkhead." "Wait, so Twilight's not with you?" Rainbow asked. "I thought she was with you, Dashie!" "You mean she got seperated?! Oh no, this is bad. She's all alone in the Everfree Forest. WE GOTTA FIND HER!" Rainbow yelled. "Oh no, she must be scared and all alone. Don't worry, with these guys with us, no monsters from the Everfree Forest should bother us." "Um, girls," Rarity said as she hangs her head out of Wheeljack's window, "You do know Twilight can handle herself, right? I mean, she IS Princess Celestia's prized student who excels in magic, a newly coronated princess herself, AND not to mention she traveled to another parallel dimension on her own." "Still, I think we should find her first," Rainbow Dash said. "We'll help you, kid," Arcee said. "You went through the trouble of helping Bee. We'll return the favor. We owe you." Wheeljack simply grunted, while Rarity scoffed at him. "Thanks a bunch. You're the coolest alien I know. Well, you're the only alien I know, but still!" Rainbow said. "What does she look like?" Arcee asked. "Don't worry, Applejack, we'll find your lost friend. It's the least we can do after you girls helped out Bee," Bulkhead said to the cowmare. "I do truly appreciate that. That's very neighborly of ya," she tipped her hat at Bulkhead. "So where do we start?" Smokescreen asked. "Uuummmm, THAT WAY!" Pinkie randomly pointed. Twilight had trekked through the forest by herself for some time now, still searching for any signs of the supposed giant alien robots lost in the woods. Normally, she wouldn't have any problems making trips like these as she tends to visit Zecora fairly regularly. But for some reason, she felt a certain uneasiness. As she moved deeper and deeper into the heart of the forest. She was absolutely certain that Bumblebee's readings were this direction. Little did she know, as she moved through the woods, she was being watched, and followed by a sinister presence in the brush, stalking her. Twilight couldn't shake the feeling, she knew something was wrong, but she couldn't put her hoof on it. She then heard what sounded like a rustling sound coming from behind her. Slowly she turned around, and notices, many eyes from the woods looking at her. These eyes were pale blue, and pupiless. "Um, hello?" she nevously addressed them. Then from the bush, many dark figures sprung out and quickly surronded her. "CHANGELINGS!" Twilight shrieked as she backed away. "Right you are, my little pony. And look at you, a Princess now...." A voice said from behind the brush. A pair of menacing green eyes stared at her, then another figure came into view. Someone who everypony and I thought was destroyed. It's Queen Chrysalis! "Oh no... NO!" Twilight muttered as she walked backwards. "Queen Chrysalis!? But Vincent destroyed you, Nightmare Moon, and King Sombra!" "Yes, he did." the queen answered, "But you see, he may have destroyed me, and the changelings in Ponyville, Canterlot, and the Crystal Empire. But, some were back at the castle, and they gathered the leftover magic from my remains, took me back to the castle to summon me, and now, I am REBORN!" Twilight was shocked to hear this. "I'm warning you. I'm a lot stronger since we last faced off. I've learned quite a few new spells," Twilight threatened, stretching her wings out. "You think you're stronger than me just because you have wings now? By all means then, impress me, princess," Chrysalis taunted. As the changelings converge on her, Twilight's horn began to glow, then a huge wave she emitted sent multiple changelings flying off in different directions. "Impressive, but not good enough," Chrysalis said, as she ordered another wave to attack. Twilight fired a several beams from her horn, the changelings she hit, suddenly turned into winged oranges. "Ha! How do you like that?" Twilight said in triumph. The queen merely cackled. "That's your best shot? What an utterly ridiculous and useless spell. My children, change back." With a number of green flashes, the transformed oranges immediately turned back into changelings. "What? But how?" "We can already change at will. It has no effect on us," Chrysalis explained. "Now, capture her! She will make an excellent randsom to Princess Celestia." Right as the changelings were almost on top of her, Twilight Sparkle teported in a bright flash, and she was gone. Twilight reappeared in another part of the forest and began to run back towards the direction of Ponyville, when suddenly, another group of green flashes appeared right before her. Queen Chrysalis and a number of her changeling swarm were right in front of her again. "Teleportation, a simple spell, that even a hatchling would know," Chrysalis said. Twilight Sparkle began to run, as the changeling gave chase. "I'm starting to wish I took those flying lessons from Rainbow Dash right about now!" Twilight shouted as she galloped. "You can run, but you can't hide, I'll get you my pretty!" Shining Armor had apparently gotten himself lost while searching for his little sister. "Great, I'm such an idiot," he muttered to himself. "I bet if I actually did find Twily she'd be laughing her flank off at me. Cadence, too." He shuddered at the thought and continued to walk through the woods. "Still, I can't let my sis venture in these woods by herself." Suddenly he heard what sounded like a scream nearby. The voice sounded like that of Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor knew that voice anywhere. "Oh no! TWILY! She's in trouble! Hang on, I'm coming!" he yelled as he headed in the direction of the sound. As Optimus Prime continued his search through the forest for his lost teammate, he sees a small object fly up to him. It looked like a small blue orb with two green eyes and a large mouth with insect wings. A parasprite? Optimus immediately drew his blaster hand at it. "Scraplets?" The parasprite merely eyed the Autobot leader with curiosity, then flew off after losing interest. Optimus changed his hand back to normal. "No, just an indigenous creature of this world," he said with relief. He then resumed his walk, when he hears what sounded like a scream and a cry for help. Optimus immediately looked around to see the source. "Someone is in trouble," he said to himself. "I must provide assistance." Even though he is on an alien world, Optimus Prime is not about to forsake someone who needed his help. He immediately transforms into his big rig form, and sped off into the direction of where the disturbance came from. "Maximum Overdrive!" Kup, Ironhide, Hot Shot, and Swerve were wandering elsewhere in the forest. They were clueless on where they were going. Then they stopped as they also heard a scream and cry for help. "What was that?" Swerve said looking around. "Sounds like trouble!" Hot Shot said, ready for trouble. "C'mon, let's go find Optimus, see if he knows," Ironhide stated. So the four Autobots turned back and ran to find Optimus. "Now then, dear Twilight Sparkle, are you ready to surrender?" Chrysalis taunted as Twilight was now cornered and completely surrounded. Twilight was at a loss. She didn't know what to do. "No, go away, leave me alone!" She shouted, as she let out another burst of magic from her horn. The changelings dodged out of the way. "Take her, now!" the queen ordered. But just as the changelings were about to converge on her, another beam of light shot out from behind them, and knocked out several changelings right in front of Twilight. Chrysalis, and Twilight turned to see the source. It was none other than Shining Armor. "BBBFF! Am I glad to see you!" Twilight beamed at her brother. "So, the hero returns," Queen Chrysalis said with amusement. "You!" Shining Armor hissed. "I thought we took care of you last year!" "Hardly. Have you come to feed me with more of your love, oh Prince of the Crystal Empire?" She taunted. Shining Armor immediately teleported himself next to his sister, and stood in front of her, taking a defensive stance. "Leave her be! If it's me you want, I'll take you on instead!" Shining Armor valiantly said. "I can feel your love for your sister. It invigorates my strength and nourishes me." "Twily, when I give the signal, make a break for it. I'll hold them off." "WHAT?! I can't just leave you here with this witch," Twilight protested. "We don't have a choice. Just be ready to run," he explained. "NO! I'm not leaving you. We stand together," she shot back at him. Just as Queen Chrysalis ordered her changelings to take them. Twilight erected a large force field around herself and her brother. The changelings slammed and rammed it repeatedly. "This won't hold them for long," Twilight said as she struggled to hold the field. "There has to be something we can do. Think, Shiny, think," he said to himself. The situation looked rather hopeless. The forcefield was beginning to crack. Shining Armor reinforced it with his own spell, but it would also eventually fail do to the physical onslaught the changelings were doing to it. Eventually, both siblings faltered from exhaustion, and Queen Chrysalis and her changelings inched forward. "Now you're both MINE!" she cackled. But from the distance, something caught all of their attention. A loud honking noise could be heard, and a large red object on wheels was barreling towards their direction. The object then screeched to a halt between the changelings and the pony siblings. To the astonishment of everyone present, it began to shift it's pieces around like a puzzle, changing it's form. Not long after, it had transformed into a giant bi-pedal metal humanoid figure. Here's OPTIMUS PRIME! The giant looked at the ponies, the one that obviously is female had a desperate look in her eyes. The look of someone who was pleading for help. The other creature, the insect like one, had the green eyes of greed, powerlust, and bloodlust. Then the little purple equine said something. "Help us, PLEASE!" Optimus was slightly surprised. He had never encountered sentient equines before, nor had he seen any with wings and horns. They must be the dominant species of this world. "I said capture them now! Do not be distracted by this metal giant," Chrysalis ordered her changelings. "Who ever you are, cease your attack! I will not allow you to harm the innocent," Optimus said in his stern tone. "Leave these beings in peace, or there will be..... Retaliation." Optimus activates his faceplate as it covers his mouth. "Is that so? Well then, We'll just have to destroy you then. For I am Queen Chrysalis, the ruler of the changelings, and no one defies me. Go fourth my changelings. Turn him into scrap metal." The changelings swooped forward, as Optimus readied himself. BAM! POW! With a mighty swing of his fists, many changelings were sent crashing to the ground. Both Twilight and Shining Armor couldn't believe what they were seeing. This giant metal creature came out of nowhere, and now it's protecting them from the changelings. Twilight immediately realized this must be one of Bumblebee's friends. Shining Armor, however, was still in the dark of that whole situation. He has no idea what's going on. As more changelings begin to swarm around Optimus, the Autobot leader then spreads his arms apart, and in one swift motion, slams his hands together in a massive hard clap. The ensuing shockwave sends the changelings flying out of control in mulitple directions as they crash into the ground and the trees. "So you defeated my swarm. Very impressive. But now you face the queen!" Chrysalis stated. She then envelops herself in a green light. Then in the wake, she had turned herself into a giant black praying mantis roughly the same size as the Autobot leader. She still had her crooked changeling horn on her head. Optimus sees this, and turns both his hands into his blades. "Now fall!" the queen yelled as she charged towards the Prime. She lashes with her pincers at the Autobot, as Optimus parries with his blade, and returns the attack. Optimus Prime swings his blade as Chrysalis catches it, only for him to do a spin, and roundhouse kick her in the chest. Chrysalis steps back, and swings another pincer at him, as Optimus clashes blades with it. Twilight and Shining Armor were at a loss of words. This giant stranger that saved them is clearly a formidable warrior. Seeing them battle was almost like an elegant dance, yet this was a fight for their lives. Optimus was all over the place, Chrysalis was barely able to touch him, as he countered all of her physical attacks. Then Chrysalis fires an energy blast from her horn at Optimus, who didn't have time to react. Right when the blast was about to hit him. A purple force bubble blocked the shot. Optimus looked down to see the purple little equine was using her horn to protect him. He nodded to her in approval, as he began to advance towards Chrysalis again. "Who are you? Why do you fight me?" the queen demanded. "My name, is Optimus Prime! And I will protect the innocent when ever they are in need of aid," he replied. Hearing this, Twilight gained an admiration for this robot. Suddenly, several blasts of energy struck Optimus in his back, as he fell down. A number of Changelings had recovered and were firing magical bolts at him. "So, then, Optimus Prime, now you're finished," Chrysalis said as she was about to bring her pincer down on his head. "No!" Twilight shouted. But Chrysalis was interrupted by several blasts of energy that hit her side. She turned around to see, several other metal giants now running towards them, firing shots of blasts from their arms, except the bigger, red, bulky one, who fired EXPLOSIVE lasers from a cannon on his left shoulder. Behind them several ponies were also running towards the area. Twilight immediately recognized them as Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash. As the Autobots got closer, Arcee immediately transformed into her vehicle mode, and charged in front of the others. Queen Chrysalis immediately changed back into her original form, to make herself a smaller target. "My children, retreat. You haven't heard the last of me Princess Twilight, or you Optimus Prime! I will have my revenge!" With that statement, Chrysalis immediately flew off with the rest of the swarm following her. After seeing the attackers fly off, The Autobots and ponies quickly run up to Optimus. "Optimus, are you alright?" Arcee asked. "I will survive, Arcee," he replied. He then retracts his faceplate, as his mouth is once again visible. The bots gave a sigh of relief as Optimus stands back up, seemingly unscathed. "I see each of you has made contact with the locals," Optimus said as he looks at the ponies, who in turn were staring at Optimus in awe. He then turns his attention towards Twilight and Shining Armor. "Are you hurt? Do either of you require medical attention?" he asked the pair. "We're quite fine sir. And thank you, you saved our lives. We're in your debt," Twilight happily said to the Prime. "My name is Princess Twilight Sparkle, and this is my brother, Shining Armor. The others, they're my friends." "Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie!" "The one and only Rainbow Dash." "Rarity, it's a pleasure." "Name's Applejack." "And these are my Autobot companions," Optimus said as he point to the others. "Call me Arcee." "[salutes] Sergeant Kup." "I'm Bulkhead." "Weapon Specialist: Ironhide." "Smokescreen, at your service." "Swerve here." "Wheeljack." "Hot Shot. Locked and loaded!" "And I, am Optimus Prime." "I still can't believe animals like them can talk," Hot Shot said as Ironhide shushed him. The Autobot leader, then crouches down in front of the young alicorn. "So you are a princess.... Are you the leader of this world?" Optimus asked. "What? No, of course not. I'm still learning about my new status. Princess Celestia is the true ruler of our world," Twilight replied. Shining Armor then questions her about what's going on. "Twily, what are you doing here in the forest in the first place? Spike told me you were investigating some sort of meteor crash. But from what I can see, these guys aren't meteors." "You're right BBBFF." "BBBFF?" Arcee questioned. "Big Brother Best Friend Forever." "Huh..." "Who says that?" Swerve said in confusion. "Quiet!" Kup quietly scolded at him. "You see, Bro, What fell out of the sky, wasn't a meteor, but an alien robot. His name is Bumblebee, and these other Autobots, I think that's what they're called, are his friends. They came to this world by accident. They just want to find their friend, and we were simply helping them." Shining Armor was at a loss of words. Aliens? He couldn't process that through is mind, yet here they are, standing in front of him. At least they're friendly. "I see," he replied. "Bumblebee? You know of his whereabouts?" Optmus asked. "Yes sir, he's with our friend Fluttershy, she's been taking care of him, and tending his wounds. He'll be just fine," Twilight answered him. "It is clear you had Bumblebee's best intentions at heart. Thank you, Princess Twilight Sparkle. It appears I too, owe you a debt of honor." Hearing this, Twilight blushed. It wasn't every day she would receive a compliment from an alien lifeform, especially one with such honor and integrity. She began to respect Optimus even more. "Please, just call me Twilight," she addressed the Autobot Leader. "Sir, I thank you for saving my life, and my sister's. I was once Captain of the Royal guard in Celestia's army. But now I'm the Prince of the Crystal Empire north of here. I would like to welcome you to our land of Equestria," Shining Armor saluted Optimus. "Thank you, young Prince," Prime replied as he returns the salute. "Actually, come to think of it, I dunno how Vincent's gonna react if he hears about this," Applejack quietly said to Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie and Rarity as they nodded in understanding what she meant. Twilight knew it as well. "I have to write a letter to Princess Celestia about this," she said. "Yeah, except Spike isn't here to send it. He's back in the library, remember?" Rainbow Dash reminded her. "Oh right. Well plan B. Let's meet up with Fluttershy, and Bumblebee. Then let's head to Canterlot to meet Princess Celestia." "Sounds fine to me," Pinkie Pie said in her chipper tone. "Good Idea. Cadence is currently there too," Shining Armor added. "We wanted to surprise you with our visit this week, but you're the one who gave me a huge surprise instead by making contact with aliens," "Then it's settled. Let's retrieve Fluttershy and Bee, and go to Canterlot," "I believe meeting the ruler of this world will greatly be benificial to us. Let us meet this Princess Celestia. Perhaps she can aid us in finding a way for us to return home," Optimus said. "Autobots, transform, and ROLL OUT!"
Chapter 6As Bumblebee and Fluttershy continue to sit outside of her house, and wait for the others to return from the Everfree forest, Fluttershy's animal friends have joined in on the impromptu tea party she had put together. "Would you like some tea Bumblebee?" the pegasus asked. Bumblebee responded with his electronic whirls. "Oh, right, you're a robot," she replied. He gave another response to her. "Well, if you don't eat or drink, then how do you survive?" Fluttershy asked. Bumblebee gave an answer with his robotic voice. "Fuel up on Energon? What's Energon?" Just as the two conversed, Bumblebee then sees several vehicles approaching them. He immediately recognized them as the rest of his team, and riding inside of them except for Hot Shot, Kup, Ironhide, and Swerve, were the rest of the ponies, plus a male unicorn he hid from earlier. Rainbow Dash, however, still preferred to fly on her own. As the ponies exit the vehicles, they all transform into robot mode, giving Fluttershy quite the shock. "BEE! There you are!" Bulkhead happily yelled, as he walked towards his friend. "You're playing with animals? Heh, you're getting soft." The Wrecker then gives a light chuckle. "EEEP!!!" Bulkhead heard a high pitched squeal coming from next to him. "Um, hey..." Bulkhead meekly greeted the pegasus and waved at her. Bumblebee quickly spoke to Fluttershy in his electronic voice. "Oh, he's one of your friends? I see.... Well, he's very.... um, big..." she nervously said. "FLUTTERSHY!" The rest of the ponies called to her. As Fluttershy ran up and hugged all of them. "Oh, girls, you're ok! I was so worried. I was afraid the monsters from the Everfree Forest got you all." "Fluttershy," Twilight said to her. "I want to introduce you to our newest friends, This is Optimus Prime, and the Autobots." She pointed to a large red and blue robot that was taller than the rest. Fluttershy was shivering at the shear sight and size of it. Optimus then kneeled down, and addressed the timid pegasus. "Hello, you must be Fluttershy, As your friend Twilight stated, My name is Optimus Prime. I wish to thank you for your care of one of my fellow Autobots. It is clear that you may have saved his life. Do not be frightened, I know our appearance, can be rather imposing, but I assure you, we Autobots mean you no harm." Fluttershy, seeing the look in his eyes, and the gentle tone of his voice, understood, this alien visitor is indeed friendly. "For a big scary monster, you're very nice," she replied. "She's a cute one," Smokescreen said as he greeted Fluttershy. "I'm Smokescreen, warrior in training, and newest recruit to Team Prime." "Team Prime?" Pinkie Pie asked, "Are you guys superheroes? Because that would be the greatest thing ever." "Well, not exactly," Arcee answered. "We may fight bad guys, but we're more like soldiers than anything else." "That still makes you cool from my point of view." Rainbow Dash replied as she flies and the air and does several loops. "Well, I'm still 20% cooler." "Keep telling yourself that, kid," Arcee smirked. "Why do I always deal with the brash ones?" "Well, now that everypony's here..." Twilight began to say. "Everypony?" Wheeljack interrupted. "Yes, that phrase is a part of our every day language, is something wrong?" Twilight asked. "Whatever," he scoffed. "Dude!" Hot Shot snapped. "What?" the Wrecker replied. "So rude..." Rarity muttered, still disapproving of his mannerisms. "As I was saying, We need to head to Canterlot. Since Spike's not here, I won't be able to reach Princess Celestia, and under such short notice, I need to let her know about our visitors. Also, we have another pressing matter to discuss. Shining Armor and I were attacked by the changelings. Queen Chrysalis is back." "WHAT?!" Fluttershy shrieked. "That's right, sugarcube. Why if it weren't for Optimus here, they probably woulda' bought it," Applejack explained. "The big lug really pulled through." "That's terrible! We have to let Princess Celestia know about this," Fluttershy said. "I'm so glad you and Shining Armor are ok, Twilight." She then gives her Alicorn friend a hug, as she cries into her shoulder. "I'm fine Fluttershy," Twilight reassured her. "Commander Prime," Shining Armor addressed the Autobot leader. "I am at your service." "At ease, young one. Let us go to this capital of yours and meet the ruler of this world," Optimus said to the others. "Yes sir!" Shining Armor saluted. Twilight couldn't help but laugh, it's clear her brother had found a hero, though she herself couldn't help but admire the Autobot leader. He risked his own life to save them after all. "Canterlot is up that mountain side. You can see the castle from here," she pointed. "*whistles* Nice place," Smokescreen said as he looks at the capital. "Reminds me of the Crystal City of Iacon," Hot Shot said looking as well. "Well, what are waiting for? ROAD TRIP!!!!!" Pinkie Pie chimed in. "She's a lot of fun, Bee. I kinda like her," Smokescreen said to the scout. "We usually take the train, but since you guys are already vehicles, there's no point," Rainbow Dash said, as she rides Arcee's motorcycle mode. The group had already made their way up the mountain side towards the capital, with the ponies riding in the Autobots but Hot Shot, Kup, Ironhide, and Swerve. Pinkie Pie in Smokescreen, Applejack in Bulkhead, Rarity in Wheeljack, Fluttershy in Bumblebee, Rainbow Dash on Arcee, and Twilight and Shining Armor in Optimus. "Thought you wanted fly, kid," Arcee addressed the pegasus. "Normally yeah, but Canterlot is a bit of a trek, so I'll let you do the speeding. Say, you're pretty fast. We need to race sometime," Rainbow Dash replied. "I normally enjoy a good drive when I'm not being shot at by Cons," Arcee told her new companion. "Hooo doggie!" Applejack said as she sat in Bulkhead's passenger seat, "You look like yer as tough as an ox." "It comes with the job," Bulkhead replied. "I'm kinda the team's big bruiser." "Somepony with yer size and strength can really be a big help on the farm. Whatdaya say?" "Maybe," Bulkhead answered. "I know a few things about working labor. It's my former job before I became a soldier." "Ugh, Really now, Wheeljack," Rarity complained, "Must you be so bumpy? A lady should never be treated in such a rough manner ." "Stop being a backseat driver, and let me do my thing," Wheeljack responded. "Besides, where's the fun if everything's so smooth all the time...." Rarity merely rolled her eyes again at his comment. "Why am I stuck with the ruffian?" she thought to herself. It wasn't long before the group reached Canterlot, as they drove through the streets. Many of the ponies were dumbstruck at these, self propelled vehicles. Everywhere they drove, many of them stared, others were curious, some were frightened, others thought it was some traveling show. Bumblebee beeped and blipped to Optimus. "Indeed, Bumblebee. It appears that motorized vehicles are scarce on this world, to the point of non-existant," Optimus replied. "So no matter what form we are, we stick out like sore thumbs. Great," Arcee muttered. "Regardless, everyone maintain vehicular form until further notice. It is best we do not alarm the population," Optimus ordered. Soon they reached the castle's main gate. The guard standing in front were alarmed at the appearance of several unidentified vehicles that had stopped in front of them. As Optimus' doors open, both Shining Armor and Twilight Sparkle hopped out. "Long time no see, fellas," Shining Armor greeted his old comrades. "Captain Armor, SIR!" The guard saluted. "It's good to have you back. Your wife is waiting for you inside." "At ease, boys. My sister and her friends are here to see Princess Celestia, oh and these vehicles are to come into the castle courtyard with us." "Sir?" The guard asked. "Long story. But it's urgent," Shining Armor answered. "Yes sir, I'll inform Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, and Princess Cadence of your arrival as well as the bearers of the elements and Princess Twilight," The guard said as he opened the gate and allowed passage through. "Thanks, guys," Shining Armor replied. "Now that's settled. Let's get going," Twilight said to her brother. The pair then head back to Optimus and climb in his doors. "This way, Captain Armor, and Princess Sparkle," The guard pointed as the vehicles enter the castle gates. Now that they were inside, and no other guards were around, Twilight gave the signal as all the ponies exit their Autobot companion. The Autobots then transform into robot mode. "It's right this way, Optimus," Twilight pointed as they approach the main throne room gate. "Princess Celestia and Luna must be inside. I wonder if Cadence is there to," she wondered. "Let us go in first, Commander Prime," Shining Armor said. "Then when everything is settled, we'll call for you." "Understood," Optimus responded. Twilight gave a deep breath, and opened the main doors. As Shining Armor and the Mane 6 enter the room, Princess Celestia can bee seen sitting on her throne, while Luna was looking out the window and Cadence speaking with a number of guards. "Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor, and all of your dear friends," Princess Celestia greeted, "Such a pleasant surprise to see you all here," Celestia said. "Princess Celestia!" Twilight happily called to her teacher, as Celestia descends from her throne, and with her wings, gives her young student a hug. "Greetings, Twilight," Luna also responded, "It is always a pleasure to see you, and your wonderful friends again." "Thank you Princess Luna. I'm happy to see you too," she smiled at the night princess. The rest of the Mane 6 bow. "Oh yeah, there's one more surprise," Shining Armor then said to the Mane 6. "One more surprise?" Twilight asked. She then turned, and had a surprised look on her face, because she saw next to Princess Celestia's throne, an old friend of theirs. He had dark tan skin. brown eyes, black hair, a white shirt with a brown 96 and brown sleeves, white tan pants, a brick red wand in his sheath on the left part of his waist, and black sneakers with some green. It's me! "Hey, ya'll," I called. "Vincent!" Twilight called, happy to see me. I then walk down to greet my frends, and they chattered and hugged me as I did. "What are YOU doing back here in Equestria?" Twilight asked. "I heard about some meteor crash next to the Everfree Forest this morning and thought I'd check by to make sure everypony was alright," I answered. "I'm so happy to see you guys again." "We're happy to see you too," Twilight replied as Cadence greets her husband. "Well, took you long enough to get back here," she teased. "Well you know me, couldn't stay out of trouble," he teased back. "You know you spoiled the surprise right?" Cadence said to her husband. "Couldn't be helped right now. We have something important to discuss actually," Shining Armor, now back in serious mode. "Is something wrong?" Cadence now asked with concern. "I'll let Twily do the talking." "Princess Cadence!" Twilight happily galloped to her sister in law and former foal sitter. "SUNSHINE SUNSHINE LADY BUGS AWAKE, CLAP YOUR HOOVES AND DO A LITTLE SHAKE!" the two mares sang and danced in unison. "I'm so happy we can see again so soon Twilight, but Shining Armor said something came up. Is there something wrong?" the young princess asked. "Well, kind of yes, and kind of no," Twilight responded, confusing the three alicorn princesses and me (Question marks pop out from our heads). "Is there something troubling you?" Celestia asked in concern. "It's alright, you can come to me about anything." "Well, I'm sure that everypony already knows about the supposed meteor crash that happened close to the Everfree Forest this morning right? I mean it's all over the Foal Free Press as I noticed while traveling here." "Yes, of course," Princess Celestia responded. "Well, what fell out of the sky, wasn't exactly, meteors...." Confused, and now concerned, Princess Celestia became greatly curious. "It wasn't a meteor? Well, if that isn't the case, what exactly fell?" the princess asked. "Ho boy..." Twilight nervously said. "You can do it, Twi," Applejack reassured her. "Princess Celestia will understand." "Well, here goes. I think it's better to show you," Twilight answered. "Rainbow Dash, let them in." "Got it, Twilight," Dash said as she zipped towards the main doors. "What's going on?" Cadence asked in confusion. Not before long, Rainbow Dash reappeared from behind the doors as she opened them, and then loud footsteps could be heard. Very soon afterwards, a giant metal bulky, and green bipedal figure began to walk into the room. Behind it, another smaller yellow and black robot also made it's way in. Behind him was one who looked exactly like the yellow one, but in blue and orange red with flames, and he has a different head, with goggles on top. Following him was a big, bulky, dark red robot with a visor, powerful shoulders, and a tire on his back. Behind that one, a smaller, blue and more feminine one also walked in. Not long after, a white and blue figure with the number 38 on it's wing like protrusions also came in, followed by another white robot, that was rather gruff in appearance. Following him was a bright red, tough looking robot, followed by his twin, but this one was green. Finally, the largest, a red and blue colored giant also appeared as he walked calmly towards the princesses. He then lowers his head and looks at them. This one had a very dignified, strong, but yet, gentle aura. Cadence gave a slightly nervous and awkward grin, and waved at these newcomers (sweat drop streams on her head), while Luna was completely blown away, and I just faint, completely shocked that the Transformers were real! Celestia however, simply smiled, and seemed to be taking this very well. "Um Princess, please don't be alarmed. They're friendly. You see, we made contact with aliens," Twilight explained. "Yes, I can see...." Celestia responded, completely intrigued and amazed. The large red one then kneeled down in front of the Sun Princess. "Greetings, My name is Optimus Prime, we are Autonomous Robotic Lifeforms from the planet Cybertron. It is an honor to meet the head of royalty of this world. These are the rest of my companions... Arcee, Bulkhead, Bumblebee, Hot Shot, Swerve, Ironhide, Kup, Smokescreen, and Wheeljack." "Please," Celestia responded. "The honor's all mine. I am Princess Celestia, co-ruler of Equestria. This is my sister, Luna, and the lovely young one is Princess Cadence, ruler of the Crystal Empire." "And this is our to lieutenant of the Royal Guard, Vincent Sophuok," she introduced me as I regained my composure. I then saluted. The Autobots were lost to see me. "A human, in this world?" Hot Shot asked. "I can tell you about my story," I said. My friends, the princesses, Shining Armor, and I knew that if I told them I knew who they are, they'd think I'm crazy. So we all had to keep it a secret. "It isn't everyday that I get to meet a being from another world. Come, do make yourselves comfortable," Princess Celestia said to the Autobots. "Don't mind if I do," Wheeljack said as Arcee elbows him in his midsection. "You're in the presence of royalty, Jackie Boy. Show a little restraint," she hissed at him. "I thank you for the hospitality, your majesty," Optimus replied. "So how is it you came to our world of Equestria?" Princess Celestia asked. "That's something maybe I can explain," Twilight added. "You see, there was a magical mishap." "Magical mishap?" Celestia said, with a raised brow. Twilight immediately sank her head low with a nervous grin on her face. "Twilight, did you perform an advanced spell you couldn't control?" "Well...." "Princess Celestia, please! It wasn't Twilight's fault. It was mine!" A familiar squeaky voice shouted across the room. Rarity immediately recognized it. "SWEETIE BELLE?! What are you doing here?" Rarity shouted to her sister, who is joined by Spike standing behind her. "SPIKE!" Twilight called out. "There you are you guys!" Spike called, panting. Then he and Sweetie Belle see me. "Oh, hey, Vincent!" he greeted. Sweetie Belle waved to me as well. I was surprised to see them here. "Uh, h-hey, Spike, Sweetie Belle," I meekly greeted. "Is that, a talking lizard?" Wheeljack asked. "I've seen weirder," Arcee added. "Looks like a tiny Predacon, but organic," Bulkhead explained. "Well, we are in a world of sentient equines," Smokescreen chimed in. "Guess we should get used to talking animals." "Well, we kinda took Twilight's balloon and followed those weird looking vehicles that we saw heading towards Canterlot," Sweetie Belle explained, to Twilight's horror. "You did what?!" Twilight said in shock. "That was extremely dangerous! Hot air balloons are not a filly's toy." "It's ok, Twilight," Spike said. "I know how to work one. I've seen you do it like a million times already. It's not like you need it anymore, with you having wings now, and all." "I still have to take flying lessons to use them properly, Spike," Twilight said to the young dragon. "I thought I told you two to wait for me back at the library." "Please don't be mad. We were just worried about you when you never came back," he young dragon responded. "So these guys are aliens. That's so cool!" Sweetie Belle beamed as she ran up to the Bots. "Vehicles?" Luna asked. "Well, we Cybertronians have vehicle modes," Arcee explained. "We use it not only for locomotion, but sometimes, disguise as well." Arcee, Bulkhead, and Bumblebee then demonstrated by transforming into their V-modes. The Princesses looked on in wonder. Sweetie Belle, Spike, and I were mesmerized by it. The bots then transform back, as Princess Celestia begins to chuckle lightly. "Certainly convenient, when one is their own form of transportation," Luna joked. "Yeah, you probably don't have to worry about paying for train tickets for the rest of your life," Rainbow Dash added as she giggled. Pinkie Pie and Cadence couldn't help but laugh at the comment as well. "So what happened? How did these beings come to Equestria?" Cadence finally asked. "Well, I kinda did something with magic that I couldn't control. It opened up some kinda portal that brought these guys here from a different world," Sweetie Belle explained, with her head hung low while staring at the ground. "Young Sweetie Belle, what you did was a very dangerous and irresponsible thing. You could have seriously hurt yourself, or brought something far nastier to our world," Celestia said in a stern voice to the filly. "I'm sorry, I promise I won't do it again," Sweetie said. "Please, don't blame her," Rarity said. "She's still young. If anypony is to blame, it was me. Ever since I found that strange blue crystal." "Blue crystal?" Smokescreen questioned. "Yes, this crystal apparently enhances, and intensifies our unicorn magic," our friend explained. "Intensifies magic?" Shining Armor asked, "That sounds dangerous." "Indeed, Shining Armor," Celestia added, "Where did you find it, Rarity?" "On a mountain range right outside of Ponyville." "This is most disturbing. If a crystal can intensify magic without the user's control, it can seriously hurt some pony. And if an entire mountain is full of these gems, it can be diasasterous. We must quarantine the area for everypony's safety," Celestia explained. "I let the Royal Guard know about this," I nodded. "So what does this gem look like?" Cadence asked. "I got it right here," Spike said as he pulls out the fragment. All of the Autobots gasp as they see the crystal. "You gotta be kidding me!" Bulkhead said in surprise, "On this world?" "You guys know what this is?" Twilight asked in surprise. "Twilight, the crystal your friend Spike has in his possession, is no ordinary gem. It's called Energon. It's our fuel, and lifeblood. It is what sustains us. Without it, we Cybertronians can't survive," the Wrecker explained. "That's Energon? I heard Bumblebee mention it to me earlier," Fluttershy said, as Bee blipped and bleeped at her. "So you eat those things? They don't look very yummy," Pinkie Pie said while sticking her tongue out. "That's a raw Energon crystal, and highly unstable in this form. Keep it away from heat or any electricity, or else, BOOM!" Wheeljack said. "You mean it'll explode?!?" Spike shrieked as he drops it on the ground as the rest of the ponies and I back away as they hear what it will do. "Do not worry, you are not in any imminent danger," Optimus said as he picks up the Energon. "Once processed into stable Energon Cubes, or in liquid form, it will become useable as the fuel we need to survive." "Good thing I got an Energon processing kit back at the Jackhammer, or we'd be in some serious trouble," Wheeljack said. "Indeed," Optimus replied. "So, that entire mountain could explode, like a volcano?" Rarity asked in concern. "I wouldn't worry about it. If it's coated in rock, your town should be fine," Bulkhead reassured her. "Well if it's there, we'd better mine it," Swerve pointed out. "Agreed, Swerve," Optimus replied. "Well, since you are here on our world, I must ask, what do you seek?" Princess Luna asked. "Only aid, in our return back to our world," Optimus answered. "This Cybertron place?" The night princess asked again. "Unfortunately, we cannot return to Cybertron. Our home planet was rendered uninhabitable due to eons of Civil War." "War? How terrible," Cadence said. "Why where you fighting a war?" Twilight asked. "It was to stop a power hungry individual and his followers from plunging our world into darkness. One who I once trusted, and considered a brother.... Megatron. Megatron, and his followers, calling themselves, Decepticons, wished to conquer Cybertron and rule with oppression, and tyranny. To oppose this threat, The Autobots were formed. I am the leader of the Autobots. My team and I have fought Megatron and the Deceptcons for many millenia. The fighting was fierce, until one day, the very core of our world was infected by the darkness. Soon, our world stopped it's production of life giving Energon, and died. We were forced to take an exodus through space. We eventually came across a new planet called Earth. The planet was seeded with Energon from the early days of the war. Both sides began shipping Energon off of Cybertron. That is perhaps how your world has Energon deposits as well. We mainly live on this new world as robots in disguse, as we do not wish to cause a panic to the indigenous lifeforms that are not familiar with extraterrestials. Unfortunately, The Decepticons had also found Earth, and are now focusing on it's conquest. Megatron will stop at nothing to take the world by force. He is merciless, and evil. I pray that you will never have to face the Lord of the Decepticons." "That's terrible," Twilight said, with tears in her eyes as she listened to their plight. "To lose your home like that. I could never imagine losing Ponyville, let alone all of Equestria." "Let us hope you will never have to experience such a thing," Optimus said. "So, you're not staying with us?" Pinkie Pie sadly asked. "I am afraid we cannot," Optimus answered to her. "But, you're all my new friends. I don't wanna see you go." "So ancient aliens came to our world before and put this Energon stuff here? Wicked!" Spike said with a smile. "I am sorry Pinkie Pie, but we must return to Earth. I fear for the planet's safety. Our absence will only assure Megatron's victory. The inhabitants of Earth do not deserve to be subjugated by the Decepticons." Even I agreed with Prime. "He's right Pinkie. They don't belong here in Equestria," I told my pink friend. "I understand, Optimus Prime," Princess Celestia responded. "We will aid you however we can." "I thank you, your highness." Hearing Optimus's selflessness once again made Twilight Sparkle admire the Autobot leader. "There's one more thing I need to report Princess Celestia," Shining Armor said. "Queen Chrysalis and her Changelings have returned. Twily and I were attacked in the Everfree Forest." Princess Celestia gasps at the news. I was shocked especially. "Impossible..... I destroyed her with Nightmare Moon and King Sombra," I said. "We'll explain everything," Twilight said. "Oh no, are you two alright? You're not hurt are you?" the sun princess asked. Hearing this, Cadence immediately embraces both her husband and Twilight. "We're fine. It was Optimus who saved us," Twilight explained. All our eyes were now on the Autobot leader. "Optimus Prime, you have done us a great service. I cannot thank you enough for saving them. I consider Vincent, Shining Armor and Twilight Sparkle like family to me. Words alone cannot express my gratitude fully," Princess Celestia thanked. "I was merely doing my duty. We Autobots protect and defend the innocent." "Then please, let me make an announcement to our kingdom. I wish to give you the welcome you deserve during your stay," Princess Celestia said with a smile on her face. "Whoa, you mean all out in public?" Bulkhead asked. "Isn't Autobot rule number one on alien worlds is to keep a low profile?" Smokescreen added. "Are you sure this is a good idea? We don't want to start a panic among your people," Arcee explained. "Oh nonsense, you are our most honored guests. I can't have true heroes living in the shadows," Celestia replied. "INDEED LET US ANNOUNCE THE ARRIVAL OF OUR NEWEST FRIENDS FROM BEYOND THE STARS AND CELEBRATE WITH A GREAT FEAST!" Luna shouted in the traditional royal Canterlot voice. The Bots and other ponies and I just stared at her. "My apologies," Luna said while blushing. "That was awesome! I Can't WAIT to tell Apple Bloom and Scootaloo. ALIENS!" Sweetie Belle happily squeaked. "As for the Changelings, I will send patrols out to keep our citizens safe," Celestia said to the others. Far on the other side of the Badlands, A dark castle sits on a mountain. This was none other than the home of Queen Chrysalis, as this area was changeling kingdom. "Curse that Twilight Sparkle, and that metal freak for ruining my plans to take Canterlot. I will rule Equestia one way or another," she fumed. Suddenly, a loud thunderous sound could be heard, followed by the entire castle shaking violently. "What's going on?" Chrysalis yelled as her changeling guard reported to her. "My Queen, it appears that some large object fell from the heavens, and has crashed by the cliff side near the castle," the guard said. "Hmm, let us investigate then." As Queen Chrysalis, and a number of her minions head towards the area, they see something lying at the top of the cliff. Something alien, and something BIG. "Well now," Queen Chrysalis smirked. "I believe we have some new neighbors."
Chapter 7It's been nearly twenty four hours since Optimus Prime and the other Autobots disappeared while investigating the strange portal that appeared over the base. Ratchet had not rested, or even moved from the computer monitors since the incident. He was glued to the screen, trying to find something, ANYTHING that could bring Optimus and the others back. As for Jack, Miko, and Raf, they too hadn't stopped worrying about their lost Autobot friends. "So tell me, doc bot," Agent Fowler said while losing his patience, "How, in UNCLE SAM'S BEARD have you not found them yet? I thought you're the smart one of the group." Ratchet was at his processor's end. "For The LAST time, Agent Fowler! We DON'T KNOW WHAT HAPPENED! I'm still tracing some of the residual energy from the vortex, but it's an energy I've never seen before!" "Are you sure the Cons don't have anything to do with this?" Fowler asked. "That's the other weird thing Agent Fowler," Jack answered. "There's been no sign of ANY Decepticon activity since it happened. It's like they just left." "WHO CARES ABOUT THE CONS!" Miko cried, as she was in tears. "I JUST WANT BULK AND THE OTHERS BACK! For All we know they could be suffering!" Hearing this, deeply upset the others, as Fowler, Jack, Raf, and Ratchet looked on with concern. The Autobots weren't exactly suffering, but they were indeed in a rather awkward position. For as long as they've been on Earth, they had alwasys been robots in disguise. This however, felt out of their element. Princess Celestia had called for a grand public announcement at Canterlot. The citizens gathered from all around Equestria were too busy gawking at the Autobots and not really paying any attention to Princess Celestia's welcome speech. "Do not think of them as other worldly beings! But as honored guests. Treat then as you would any other po..." Celestia corrected herself. "Citizen! This is to be considered a glorious moment for not just Canterlot, But for all of Equestria! Please I would like you to welcome our newest friends. It is my great honor to introduce, OPTIMUS PRIME AND HIS FAITHFUL AUTOBOTS!" There was a round of Cheering. Optimus did feel very humbled by this welcome. But he knew that coexisting with these new being was going to very difficult. However Twilight's warm smile did sooth his worries somewhat. "Well, so much for discreet," Arcee said as Smokescreen, Swerve, Hot Shot, and Bumblebee began waving to the crowd. "Doesn't seem so bad," Smokescreen added as he smiled and waved. "Of course!" Pinkie Pie said, as she sat on his shoulder, "Everypony's very happy to meet you, and they can't wait to be your friend!" "I still don't know if this is a good idea," Bulkhead said to Optimus. "We've always been keeping a low profile as not to cause a panic." "I understand and have noted your concern, Bulkhead," Optimus replied. "But these ponies seem less supersticious and more accepting than humankind. Perhaps it is for the best." As the bots continue to converse, Wheeljack then sees Sweetie Belle, the little unicorn filly from before run up to him. Behind her, two other young ponies around the same age range as her followed. One was a yellow filly with a red mane, and a bow in her hair, the other was a short maned orange pegasus. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo. As they run up the the Wrecker, he can clearly see the huge smiles on their faces. "See?! I told you, ALIENS!" Sweetie Belle beamed. "Hi Wheeljack, remember me? I'm Rarity's little sister. These are my two friends, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo. WE'RE THE CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS!" "Umm, yeah..." Wheeljack responded, slightly annoyed. "I think you're the coolest looking alien out of all of them," Sweetie Belle added. "And it looks like you already know Rarity pretty well." "We're not exactly friends." Wheeljack said to the filly. "I heard you can turn into a motor vehicle!" Scootaloo said. "How fast can you go?" "Yeah," Apple Bloom added. "Can ya do stunts and tricks?" Wheeljack simply rolled his optics and sighed. As Shining Armor stood next to Optimus, he was wearing his traditional red uniform. Identical to the outfit he wore during his wedding. As he stood proudly next to the Autobot leader, and his sister, Rainbow Dash began to giggle. Shortly afterwards, so did Princess Cadence. "You noticed it too, huh, princess?" Rainbow Dash asked, as she tried to hold back her laughter. "Ooooh, yeah," Cadence smirked. "What's so funny, you two?" Shining Armor asked. "NOTHING!" Both Dash and Cadence answered in unison, still snickering. Just then, I joined the laughter. Twilight then noticed our chuckling, looked at Optimus, then at her brother, then at the Autobot leader again, then her BBBFF again. Finally she got what her sister in law, Rainbow Dash and I found so amusing. The colors, the red torso, the blue helmeted head of Optimus, and Shining Armor's mane. The white colored legs. The two of them looked almost alike, though one's a giant robot, and the other's a unicorn. Soon, Twilight began joining in on the joke, as Shining Armor, still clueless as ever, looked on in confusion. The Nemesis.... "Dreadwing!" Megatron called to his second in command. "Damage report." "All of our engines are off line, and our weapon systems are non-functional, Lord Megatron," Dreadwing responded. "Looks like we're stuck, again," Skywarp said. Megatron was furious. His ship had crash landed in parts unknown, and is currently crippled. It would make him and the other Decepticons sitting ducks should the Autobots, or human military attack at this very moment. "Get the ship airborn immediately. Use what ever means neccessary!" Megatron ordered. At that moment, Soundwave, Thundercracker, and Knockout entered the main bridge. "Lord Megatron," Knockout bowed before his master, "Soundwave, Thundercracker, and I have discovered a rather, disturbing new piece of information regarding our current predicament." "Yes, what is it Knockout?" Megatron asked in an annoyed tone, clearly not happy to receive more bad news. Soundwave then plugs one of his tentacles into a computer terminal. "It appears, that we are no longer on Earth, my liege," Knockout said, with a hint of fear in his voice. He wasn't sure how Megatron would react. "What do you mean?!" Megatron angrily growled. "If we are no longer on Earth, WHERE IN THE PITS OF KAON ARE WE KNOCKOUT??!!" "According to Soundwave's readings, it appears we've crashed onto some uncharted planet, orbiting the Horse Head Nebula," Knockout answered. This was news Megatron did NOT want to hear. "Are you telling me, that I am denied my destiny of ultimate victory....because of some twist of fate that has us trapped on some PRIMUS FORSAKEN BACKWATER PLANET?!" Megatron was about to blow a gasket. "Find a way to get us back, NOW! Repair the engines, and plot a course back to Earth!" "That may not be so simple, my lord," Knockout responded. "And why, pray tell, would that be?" Megatron asked. "The engines will take several days to repair, Lord Megatron. And our shear distance from here, to Earth, would take us weeks to return. Even with the hyperdrive at full efficiency. But we'll most likely burn through our fuel reserves before we even reach Earth. This thing's a giant Energon guzzler after all.." "WHAT??" Megatron fumed. "I will not allow the Autobots to take advantage of our absence from Earth, and reap in all the spoils. Find a way to return us home, IMMEDIATELY Knockout, or you will regret the day you ever came online!" "Y...Yes, Lord Megatron," Knockout responded with fear as he hurriedly left the bridge. "Soundwave, Thundercracker, prepare to assist the repair crews." The Decepticon leader ordered. "Yes, Lord Megatron," Thundercracker Replied, as Soundwave simply nodded. Suddenly, Soundwave's visor picked up a blip, then several more, then even more appeared. "My lord," Dreadwing asked, "What is Soundwave detecting?" "It appears, we have some rather.... unwanted guests, Dreadwing," Megatron replied. From the dark corridors of the hall, a number of pupilless blue eyes appeared. Many of the Vehicons, and Insecticons drew their blasters at the intruders. Then a pair of green eyes appeared. The owner of the eyes then stepped into the light. The creature appeared to resemble a horse with a crooked horn, yet had insect like features. It also had a small crown in it's head. The more Megatron noticed the features, the more he realized, this creature is female. (It's Queen Chrysalis) "Nice place you have here," she said in a mock friendly tone. "A bit too high tech for my taste but it's not without it's charm." Megatron had no idea where this organic filth came from, but he wanted it off of his ship. He then points his fusion cannon at her. "You'd forgive me if I'd like to keep my ship pest free," Megatron said as his cannon began to charge. "Nice toy you have, may I try it out?" the creature said as she began to envelop herself in a green flash of light. However, to her shock, nothing happened. "What? Why can't I take your form?" "My form?" Megatron asked, slightly puzzled. "Blast! It appears I can't shapeshift into machines. No matter," she said, as she again envelops herself in a green flash. Standing in her place, was now a giant snake, around the same size as Megatron, yet she still retained her crooked horn on her head. The Vehicons, and Insecticons took defensive stances, as the rest of the Changelings began to advance towards the Cons. Dreadwing himself readied his cannon, the grey and red Stunticon who looked like Wheeljack but with a different head, Wildrider, pulled out his grenade launcher, a blue robot named Rumble and his identical red twin, Frenzy, turned their hands into pildriver guns and aimed, Skywarp and Thundercracker aimed their arm mounted missiles, and Soundwave prepared the Resonance Blaster. "Stand down," Megatron ordered. "I will deal with this organic myself." Right as Megatron was about to open fire, the giant snake had already jumped forward with lightning speed, surpising the Decepticon leader. Before long, Megatron was already coiled up, as the rest of the Decepticons prepped their weapons, ready to fight the intruders, and free their leader. "Ha, you're too slow," the snake taunted. "You and your drones will service us." "Megatron serves NO ONE!" he called out, as he struggles to break free. "Megatron? Nice name." She then charged up her horn, and fires a green beam at Megatron's chest. But then, something unexpected happened. As soon as the magical beam hit Megatron, it immediately caused some sort of strange feedback, and sent the beam straight back to her. She is then struck by her own magic as it backfired, knocking her down, and in another green flash, the snake had turned back to it's original horse-like insect form. "What happened? Why did my magic fail?" "Magic?" Megatron scoffed, "How utterly pathetic." As Megatron stood for a moment, he realized what had saved him. "Ah, yes. Dark Energon, the blood of Unicron the Destroyer flows through my veins. It has the ability to raise the dead, and it appears to have some rather, ill effects, on your particular abilities. Your shapeshifting powers, I admit, intrigues me. An organic on par with a Decepticon pretender, or a shifter like the late Makeshift." Megatron then approaches the creature, as the other changelings converge around her in a defensive stance. "No, please wait!" She pleaded. "I can be of service to you. I was wrong to fight you, please spare me and my children." "And why should I show you mercy when not but a short time ago, you wished to terminate me?" Megatron said, again pointing his cannon at her. "Because I can help you. I can be of service!" "Look around you, organic," Megatron seethed, "I command an army aboard a powerful warship. The last flesh creature who offered his services to me, Silas, I believe his name was, ended in absolute failure. That foolish Human paid the ultimate price, as I do not tolerate failure! What can you possibly offer me?" "What if I told you, I can help you return to your world." This caught Megatron's attention. "And how would you be able to do that?" he asked. "I can find a spell, in the Canterlot Royal Libraries. I know for fact that such a spell exists. It brought you here to our world in the first place after all. Of course, once you help me defeat Princess Celestia, the ruler of Equestria." "Equestria? Is that the name of this world?" Megatron asked. "You are correct, oh gracious Lord Megatron." "Enough of your groveling. I've heard enough from both Starscream, and Airachnid, two notorious traitors I formerly had in my employ!" Megatron yelled. "Of course," she responded. "You will find me this so called, spell, and return us to planet Earth immediately!" Megatron yelled. "It will not be such an easy task. Canterlot is the capitol of Equestria. The royal guard resides there, as well as the two royal sisters themselves. Their magic is great, and the capital heavily guarded. However, with this substance in your possession, Dark Energon, was it? It can be used against her abilities as you did with mine. And I also see this ship of yours is quite powerful once fully repaired to it's great potential. You can easily defeat Celestia and her forces, and then I can take the throne for myself. My Changelings and I will thrive, and this world will become my domain as I rule it." "I do not need YOU to patronize me, organic!" Megatron yelled as he was clearly losing his patience with this creature. "Please, call me Queen Chrysalis. I am the ruler of the Changelings," she introduced herself. "Well then, Queen Chrysalis," Megatron said, still disgusted at these organic changelings. "Why should I help you conquer this world, when I can easily vaporize you here and now, raid the capital myself, and use this so called spell, to return my Decepticons to Earth?" "For starters," Chrysalis answered. "You need someone to cast the spell. And since you Decepticons have no magical abilities, you'll need me to do it for you. Second, Celestia has a new ally. An off worlder much like yourself. Very powerful, and made of metal, very much like you and your kind. For all I know, he's probably one of yours." "And who, in Primus's name would that be?" Megatron asked, now curious. "He calls himself, Optimus Prime." Megatron's and Dreadwing's optic widen at the mention of that name. The Vehicons, Insecticons, Wildrider, Frenzy, Rumble, Skywarp and Thundercracker began to whisper and converse among themselves. "I see you're familiar with him," Chrysalis responded to the Decepticons' reactions. "He is my sworn enemy. It is my destiny to terminate him by my two hands!" Megatron yelled. "Optimus? Here? No matter, perhaps fate has been kind to me after all. As I will crush him, and bring glory to the Decepticon cause." "I too had an encounter with him. He thwarted my plans to kidnap Princess Celestia's prized pupil as a ransom. The ponies have themselves a rather strong bodyguard now." "Ponies?" Dreadwing asked. "The dominant species on this world, are sentient ponies," Chrysalis explained. "How utterly disgusting," Megatron muttered, "All the more reason to leave this place. This world seems to be even more primitive than Earth. It serves no purpose to the Decepticon cause." "Then help me take Canterlot. Once your forces, cripple the royal guard, Optimus Prime will surely fall soon after if we combine our two armies. Then I will hold up my end of the bargain, and return you to this, Earth, you so desperately wish to see again." Megatron merely growled, and pondered what Chrysalis just said. "So, do we have a deal?" Chrysalis asked. "...... So be it. Better to have a native on my side than against me. Though working with organics is still beneath me," Megatron replied. "But be warned, if I find that you are simply using us and abusing our resources, or if I detect any trace of treachery and deceit, I will not hesitate to make you suffer!" Megatron warned. "Now, begone!" "As you wish, mighty Lord Megatron. Come my children, let us return to our home. We'll be in touch." With that, Chrysalis and her changeling swarm teleported themselves off the bridge of the Nemesis in numerous green flashes. "Lord Megatron," Dreadwing asked. "Are you certain this is a good plan of action? I do not trust this Queen Chrysalis." "Rest assured, Dreadwing," Megatron responded, "I would sooner reduce Chrysalis to ashes than fully trust that insect . But until then, we have need of her arcane powers. I will have Soundwave monitor her activities." Soundwave nods in agreement. "Now then, Soundwave, send Laserbeak on reconnaissance. I wish to learn more about this planet before we make our move." With that, Soundwave's chest plate transforms into a bird like drone, and flies out of the bridge. About two hours later, Laserbeak returns and re-attaches itself back to Soundwave, who then inserts several of his tendrils into the main computer, as Megatron looked on. He sees a village full of colorful ponies, as they go on about their lives. Seeing this disgusted Megatron, as he saw no value in these creatures, and seeing their level of technology wasn't even on par with the humans. But something else caught his attention. "Soundwave, zoom in on that mountain range." Soundwave did what he was told, and enhanced on the mountain. There, what the Decepticons saw, greatly caught Megatron's interest. "Is that....?" Skywarp said. "Energon, an entire mountain full of Energon!" Dreadwing stated with amazement. "Here, on this world?" Thundercracker questioned. "Perhaps this world does have something worthwhile afterall." Megatron said to himself. He then activates a communications terminal on the computer. "Knockout," Megatron said into the computer's commlink. "I want all systems fully operational as soon as possible."
Chapter 8Jasper, Nevada... It was around late afternoon, as Jack Darby had just finished his shift at KO Drive Through, the fast food joint he works at. He hadn't been able to focus too well at his job, be regardless still did it the best he could anyway. As he began to walk towards his bicycle, the only other form of transportation before Arcee came into his life, a familiar ambulance pulled up to the parking lot where Jack's bike was resting. It was Ratchet. But both the driver side door, and passenger door opened, and two people exited. Two people Jack knew, one was Agent Fowler, the other, his mother, June Darby, a nurse. "Mom? Agent Fowler?" Jack asked in surprised. "Hi honey, I finished my shift early at the hospital, and decided to come by right as you got off," June replied as she hugged her son. "Are you doing alright? I know this situation has been rough on you all." "I'll be fine, mom, but yeah. I'm still worried about Arcee and the other bots. It's been nearly 3 days now since they disappeared," Jack responded. "Don't worry, son," Agent Fowler said to the teen. "If I know Prime, he's probably doing everything he can to fix this issue, where ever he is." "Indeed, Agent Fowler," Ratchet added, still in vehicle form. "I have no doubt the others are in good hands with Optimus. Though it's Wheeljack's brashness, and Hot Shot and Smokescreen's inexperience I'm truly worried about. I WILL find them, rest assured." "Truth be told, I'm worried about Arcee as well," June replied. "Like Jack said, she's become family." "Mom?" Jack said in surprise. "What? Oh right, you don't know about this, but Arcee and I have bonded pretty well while you were either at work, or at school. Whenever she would be in the garage and not fighting Decepticons, she and I would sometimes have some 'girl talk'. It's actually really nice to have another woman around to chat with when I'm home by myself," June said, then giving him a wink. Jack simply eyed his mother, with a puzzled look. "I just hope you can find a way to get them back here soon, Ratchet," Fowler said to the Autobot medic. "I, will do my best. And I will not give up until they are located," Ratchet said, as the three humans look on at the Autobot. It has been several days since the Autobots arrived to the world of Equestria, and since then, thanks to Princess Celestia's welcome ceremony at Canterlot, the Autobots have become publically known to the entire kingdom. Princess Celestia had recommended that Optimus and his team stay in the nearby town of Ponyville. While the rest of the Bots accepted the offer, Wheeljack opted to stay with the Jackhammer still deep in the Everfree forest. He claimed it still needed repairs, which he wasn't lying, but at the same time, he wasn't much for crowds. Everywhere the Autobots went, they were hounded by the locals, asking them questions, and treating them like celebrities. As for Optimus himself, he and Twilight would make daily trips to the Canterlot Library to research a way for them to return home. As Smokescreen and Pinkie Pie walked down the street of Ponyville, they began discuss on a party to welcome the Bots to Equestria. "THIS WILL BE THE BEST PARTY EVER!" Pinkie squealed as she hopped next to Smokescreen. "Sounds like a lot of fun Pinkie. I love parties!" Smokescreen responded. "Well, maybe not Optimus. Primes usually don't party." "Aww, that's sad," Pinkie responded. "But I'm gonna make it extra special, that even Optimus will love it!" "I'm sure you will," Smokescreen said. "Now let's see what this town has to offer!" "We'll have Streamers and Cake and... Oh, wait a minute, do robots eat cake?" Pinkie asked. "No, we kinda don't. Sorry," Smokescreen answered. "OH! Well... I'll see if we have any motor oil!" Pinkie giggled. "I prefer Energon," Smokescreen responded. "OKIE DOKIE LOKIE!" Pinkie beamed. Smokescreen and Pinkie continued down their path to the party supply store, while only a couple of blocks away, Applejack had invited Bulkhead to accompany her to the market place to find some tools, supplies, and fertilizer for the farm. Being that he was one of the biggest, Bulkhead was certainly proving himself quite an inconvinience for all the pony shoppers and merchants. Every where at the market place you'd hear "YIKES!" or "WATCH IT!" or "CRUNCH" or" MY KART!" "Oops. Sorry. My bad. Sorry again!" stammered Bulkhead as he fumbled around clumsily about, trying to stay out of everypony's way. He was having trouble with the terminology. He had brought a new meaning to his job as an Autobot "Wrecker". Applejack smiled slightly, as it was kind of funny to watch each time Bulkhead had one of his accidents. "Don't you worry about it, partner. They'll get over it. After all, ya didn't mean to do it," Applejack reassured the Wrecker. The duo stopped by a melon cart and saw an old lady mare checking all the melons. "Say, some melons would be mighty fine," Applejack said as she began to tap, poke, and prod at some. "Uhh, what are you doing, AJ?" Bulkhead asked. "Well, you have to be picky this time of year if you want a ripe melon!" Applejack told them. "Ripe one's are the good ones?" Bulkhead asked. "There's nothing more tasty then a ripe melon! Well, maybe a ripe Red Delicious Apple, but that's beside the point," Applejack replied. "How do you know if they're ripe or not?" asked Bulkhead. "The soft shells!" Applejack answered. With that Bulkhead picked up the whole cart, gently pressed ALL the melons. But even gently was enough to squash ALL of them. Melon juice sprayed everywhere. "SAY! These Are ALL Good!" Bulkhead happily stated. But then he saw the damage he had caused and all the angry stares directed at him. "Scrap......" Bulkhead muttered. "I am SO DUMB!" "Aw, don't be so hard on yourself, big guy," Applejack reassured him. After apologizes were made, Bulkhead glumly strode out of the market place with Applejack on his shoulder. Applejack eyed her new friend with sympathy. He didn't mean to cause such a mess. But then Applejack had an idea. "I got it!" How's about helping me over at the Farm?" "Heh, I'll see what I can do AJ," Bulkhead said sheepishly. Over at the front yard of Carousel Boutique, Arcee was put in a rather strange spot, as Rarity had her wrapped in a tape measure. She was planning on giving the female Autobot a complete makeover, and a dress, much to Arcee's reluctance. "Listen," Arcee said to the fashion unicorn. "I'm not exactly a glamour girl." "Oh but you are so abolutely LOVELY my dear," Rarity responded, which Arcee couldn't help but feel slightly flattered. "Now then, time for your makeup," the fashionista stated as she began levitating several items such as lipstick, eyeshadow, and powdered blush up to Arcee's face. "Oh no...." Arcee muttered as Rarity began applying makeup to her metal face. Just as Rarity began working her magic, Smokescreen and Pinkie Pie happened to walk by, and by Pinkie walking by, I mean hopped by, and see the commotion. "Ha, so what's going on here?" Smokescreen asked as he watched Arcee's treatment, barely able to contain his laughter. "Not now, kid," Arcee seethed under her breath as Rarity continued to work. "Didn't take you for a dressup doll, Cee," Smokescreen teased as Pinkie Pie also giggled. "If I hear another peep out of you, you'll be the first race car in Equestria with a permanent limp, got that?" Arcee threatened. "Hey, lighten up, I'm just playing around. I mean, come on, you actually don't look that bad. In fact, you look kinda cute," Smokescreen said. "You.... think so?" Arcee asked. "Of course!" Pinkie Pie chimed in. "Your face looks like a parrot exploded on it, then exploded AGAIN!" At this point, Smokescreen couldn't keep it together anymore, and began having uncontrollable fits of laughter with Pinkie. "THAT'S IT!" Arcee yelled "I'm kicking your tailpipe all they way back to Iacon!" "You gotta catch me first!" Smokescreen laughed as he transforms into his race car mode, as Pinkie hops into the driver seat, and he roars off and he and Pinkie continue laughing. "Oh who needs them, anyway," Rarity said. "Let us continue." Suddenly, a blue blur zipped by and landed in front of both Rarity and Arcee. Rainbow Dash stood panting in front of the duo. "Dash? What's wrong?" Arcee asked with concern. "Arcee quick!" Rainbow Dash called out. "There's an emergency, I need your help." "What kind of emergency?" Rarity asked, also with a concerned look on her face. "No time to explain! Arcee, you gotta come with me, NOW!" Rainbow Dash yelled. "But, I'm not finished with her makeover," Rarity complained. "No time, we gotta go!" Rainbow Dash said again as she flies off toward the distance. "Sorry Rarity, but duty calls," Arcee said as she wipes of her makeup, transforms into her motorcycle form, and speeds off after Dash. "Hang on, Dash. I'm right behind you." After driving several miles out into a wooded area, Arcee sees Rainbow Dash land in an open meadow. "Ok, Dash. What's the emergency?" Arcee asked, as she transforms into robot mode. "No emergency," Rainbow replied with a smirk on her face, "I just needed to get you away from Rarity. You didn't exactly look like you were having a good time being all dolled up. Believe me, I know that feeling." Arcee looked at Rainbow Dash with a cocked brow. "Well, that wasn't very nice," Arcee stated, "Heh, thanks, kid. Good to know you have my back." She then smiled at the pony. "Hey, no problem," Dash said as she flies up to Arcee's eye level. "So now that we're here, you wanna race?" "I don't have any other plans, sure. Just be warned, I don't think you know what you're in store for," Arcee replied. She then transforms into her vehicle mode. "That's the spirit," Rainbow Dash said as she readied herself. "First one back to Ponyville is the winner," Dash said, "Ready, set.....GO!" They take off at high speeds back towards Ponyville. At first the race had them neck and neck, until Arcee hits her overdrive, and takes the lead. "Say, you're not bad. But no way you're beating me! I'm the fastest flier in all of Equestria," Rainbow Dash stated, as she suddenly inched forward towards the bot. "Pretty impressive stuff, Dash," Arcee said as she sees Rainbow Dash catch up to her in her side view mirrors. "Petal to the Metal!" Arcee then shifts into a higher gear, and speeds off again. "Oh no you don't!" Rainbow Dash says, as she soars over Arcee, then in a massive burst of speed, she jets forward, and suddenly, there seemed like an explosion. A rainbow colored explosion suddenly propels Rainbow Dash forward with incredible lightning speed, as Arcee suddenly comes to a stop, transforms, and looks up at the sky, her jaw wide open. Rainbow Dash then lands right next to Arcee, who was still in shock. "Ha, you should see the look you have on your face right now!" Dash begins laughing. "How, wha? How did you do that? WHAT WAS THAT?" Arcee asked, dumbfounded. "That, my friend, is the Sonic Rainboom. It's a rainbow colored sonic boom which I'm the only one capable of pulling off. Guess I win. I mean, breaking the sound barrier and all." "Interesting. I had no idea a flesh being like you can pull off something like that," Arcee said, still amazed at what had transpired. "Don't take it personally. I trained hard to pull that off. It's not easy," Rainbow Dash explained. "You're really something, kid," Arcee said while smiling. "Your attitude reminds me, of an old friend of mine." "Oh? Who?" Dash asked. "Cliffjumper. You're kind of like him. Brash, Bold, Confident, and never backed down from any challenge," Arcee explained. "And like your pink friend, he was quite the chatterbox." "He sounds really cool. So when do I get to meet him?" Rainbow Dash asked. Arcee's attitude then changed to that of sadness. "Are you ok?" Rainbow looked on with concern. "Sorry, I shouldn't have brought up Cliff. It's a bit of a touchy subject," Arcee answered. "Why not? Isn't he your friend? It's always a good thing to remember your friends," Rainbow Dash said. "Something bad happened to him. Starscream happened," Arcee told the pegasus, "Starscream is a dangerous Decepticon, and formerly Megatron's second in command. Cliff was captured by the Cons, and murdered in cold blood by Scream's hands." Rainbow Dash gasped, then looked at Arcee with sympathetic eyes. "Oh no, Arcee, I... I'm so sorry to hear about that. And I'm really sorry to bring up a subject that brought you so much pain." "It's alright kid. I learned sometimes talking about it helps with the recovery of loss," Arcee stated to the pegasus. Rainbow Dash smiled at her new friend, as they begin to make their way back to Ponyville. In the mountain range outside of Ponyville, Swerve, Hot Shot, Ironhide, and Kup were actually searching for the Energon Rarity found. Swerve was leading the way, using his energon tracker. "Swerve, are you certain this is where Rarity said she found the Energon?" Kup asked. "Trust me, Kup. My energon tracker never lies," Swerve confidentially answered. Hot Shot then noticed, Ironhide had a concerned look on his face. "Somethin' bugging you, Ironhide?" he asked. "I don't know," the weapon specialist replied. "It doesn't feel the same here without the Decepticons." "Hey, look on the bright side," Hot Shot tells him. "If the Cons were here, they'd be destroying this place all over. Just be glad they're not on this world." "Yeah, maybe you're right. Still, what if they took over Earth already?" "You and I have the same thought, Ironhide," Kup replied. "As soon as gather what we need, we'll be ready to leave." "This is such a peaceful world," Hot Shot said. "Maybe this can be another one of my old stories," Kup added. Suddenly, Swerve's energon tracker starts beeping loudly. "Guys, I'm getting a reading! It must be here!" Swerve said. As they got closer, they couldn't believe what they saw. They've found it. "By the Allspark," Ironhide muttered in awe. "Ha, look at all this Energon!" Swerve exclaimed with excitement. "We could LIVE here with all this! Time to get mining!" So he runs up and gets started right away. In the outskirts of Ponyville, by Fluttershy's cottage, Bumblebee and Fluttershy were taking a stroll through the meadow. "Here, Bumblebee," Fluttershy said to the bot. "Take some of these seeds and sprinkle them over the plain." Bumblebee replied with his electronic blips, and did as she said. He then sees different types of birds fly down from the trees as they began eating the seeds. "That's right, eat up, my feathered friends," Fluttershy said with a smile. "Here, take these," Fluttershy said, as she places a number of acorns and nuts into Bee's hand. "Kneel down a bit," she instructed, as Bee did so. Before he knew it, several squirrels had climbed onto Bumblebee's hand and began to eat the nuts and acorns. "Aww, I think they like you," Fluttershy said. Bumblebee blipped and bleeped in his Cybertronian language. "Of course, Bumblebee," Fluttershy responded to him. "You ARE getting rather good at this. It's always nice to make new friends." After they had finished feeding Fluttershy's animals, Bumblebee looked at the direction of Ponyville. Ever since he and the others got there, he couldn't help but feel homesick while walking through the small town. It reminded him too much of Jasper, Nevada. Both were rural small towns in a backwater area. He began thinking about Raf, and how worried his human friend must be about him. "Bumblebee? Are you alright?" Fluttershy's voice broke from the Autobot's daze. Bumblebee responded with his electronic tone. "Oh, I see. You miss your home, and your friends, don't you?" Bumblebee nodded, with a sad look in his eyes. "Don't worry, I'm sure Twilight will find a way to send you home." Then Fluttershy had a sad look on her face once she realized what she was saying. Bumblebee also noticed this too, as he also began to feel a certain sadness. He had become rather close to the pony. Much like his bond with Raf, saying goodbye to her will be just as hard. "Let's not dwell on that right now," Fluttershy said. "And enjoy our time together." Bumblebee bleeped in agreement. "So tell me about your friend back home." Bumblebee gave another electronic beep. "His name is Raf? So what kind of pony is he? A pegasus like me? or a unicorn, or an earth pony?" Bumblebee simply shook his head, and gave another electronic response. "Oh so he's not a pony. Well, is he a griffon, or a minotaur? Or maybe he's a donkey, or a mule." Bumblebee thought it was about time to tell Fluttershy about who and what humans were. In Canterlot.... Optimus and Twilight had spent some time now researching the royal library. Fortunately, the halls of the library were large enough for Optimus to fit in, as he and Twilight flipped through a number of books in the Star-Swirl the Bearded section. "Hmm, this Star-Swirl the Bearded seems to be a well respected individual in your history," Optimus stated. "Yes, indeed he is," Twilight responded. "If it weren't for him, modern unicorn magic probably wouldn't exist. We owe a lot to his studies." "Very interesting," Optimus said back to the young alicorn. "His demeanor and research reminds me very much of my own mentor, Alpha Trion." "Who's that?" Twilight asked. "Alpha Trion was the one of the wisest, and oldest Cybertronians to ever exist, as well as one of the original Thirteen Primes of Cybertron. He was in charge of the Iacon Hall of records, the great library of my world. Much like this establishment here. The similarities are astonishing." "Sounds wonderful. This Alpha Trion must have been a great Autobot." "Indeed he was," Optimus answered, "He personally took me under his wing, before I became a Prime." "Before you became a Prime? I don't understand," Twilight said with puzzlement. "I was not always the leader of the Autobots. I was once Alpha Trion's apprentice, as an archivist. I studied under him for many millenia, long before the great war started on our world. It was during the great Golden Age of peace on Cybertron. Much how like your world is now," Optimus stated. He couldn't help but admire the beauty, tranquility, and peace Equestria has to offer. "How I wish such peace your world has, can be returned to Cybertron. However, Megatron and his Decepticons have made that impossible." "I'm sorry to hear. It must have been awful to live through and fight in a war. I can't begin to imagine how that's like," Twilight sadly stated. "So you were a librarian? I find that facinating. I guess we're not all that different you and I." "No, I suppose not," Optimus said with a smile to Twilight. Hearing this, Twilight's admiration for Optimus increased. "So, what happened to Alpha Trion?" Twilight asked. "I do not know his ultimate fate after the war broke out. Though I wished I did," Optimus responded. Twilight could hear the sorrow in his voice. She felt great sympathy for him. She couldn't bear the thought of losing me or any of our friend, or losing Princess Celestia. "I'll do my best to help you, Optimus. We'll find the spell to return you home," Twilight stated. "Though, a part of me wishes that you can stay here with us." "I understand your feelings. I too wish I can stay in such a tranquil world, but we have our responsibilites back on Earth. We must protect humankind from Megatron." "Well, our world also has it's evils. Before Princess Luna was redeemed, she was once known as Nightmare Moon. She tried to cover the entire world in darkness, until we used the Elements of Harmony on her and purged the evil from her heart. Now she's one of our dearest friends, and a great co-ruler of Equestria." "As I have read in your archives, young Twilight, it is indeed a fascinating story," Prime stated. "And there's also Discord, the spirit of Disharmony and Chaos. His magic nearly turned Equestria upside down, and corrupted each of my friends. Granted he seemed more like a prankster and jokester with his antics, such as making cotton candy clouds that rained chocolate milk, making ponies act out of character, and turning street into soap, but he was still a serious threat. I too was affected by his magic. He turned my friends and I against each other so that the Elements of Harmony would be rendered useless. It wasn't until that I remembered the Magic of Friendship, that I was able to cure myself, and the others. We finally confronted Discord, and the Elements were able to turn him to stone. Later, Princess Celestia believed Discord could be rehabilitated, and had us release him from his stone prison. But he quickly went back to his old antics again. However, thanks to Fluttershy showing Discord the true meaning of friendship, he's reformed now.... Somewhat at least." Twilight took a breather, then continued to tell the stories of the other villains of Equestria. Optimus couldn't help but feel that this Discord, seemed similar to Unicron, another being of Chaos, but more whimsical. "There are also bad ponies, such as the evil King Sombra. Long ago, he once enslaved the Crystal Empire and forced the citizens to live in misery. Before his first defeat by Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, he placed a curse upon the Empire that made it disappear for a thousand years. When the Crystal Empire returned, so did King Sombra, as he tried to conquer the land again. It wasn't until we retrieved the Crystal Heart that Sombra was finally destroyed for good." As Optimus listened to Twilight's tale, he couldn't help but feel slightly uneasy, as this.... King Sombra... somewhat reminded him of Megatron. "There's also Sunset Shimmer, a unicorn who was also once Princess Celestia's student, and Vincent's old friend, some time after he became lieutenant. However, she became disgruntled, and stole the Element of Magic. She took it through a magical mirror that led to an alternate universe. Sunset Shimmer tried to use it to control the inhabitants of the mirror world, and use them to take over Equestria. The stolen powers of the crown turned her into a demonic creature, and you wouldn't BELIEVE what I had to go through to stop her, and retrieve my element. Fortunately, Vincent and I ran into that world's counterparts of my friends, and using the spirit of the Elements of Harmony, we were able to defeat Sunset Shimmer, and purge the dark magic from her. Thankfully, our other parallel counterparts from that world showed her what it means to have friends, and she too was redeemed." Twilight took another break and sipped some tea, as the Autobot leader was glad to hear that another being was reformed from past misdeeds. Hearing about a mirror that grants access to an alternate universe also made Optimus slightly curious. "Finally, there's Queen Chrysalis, the changeling queen. She impersonated Princess Cadance during her wedding to Shining Armor. She feeds off of love, and tried to use my brother's love for Cadance to empower herself. It was enough power to beat Princess Celestia, and her army nearly conquered all of Canterlot. Thankfully, Shining Armor and Princess Cadance love for each other unleashed a powerful spell that repelled Chrysalis and her invading army away to parts unknown. Not long after, she stirred up trouble again by replacing the population of Ponyville with Changeling dopplegangers, and kidnapped Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. We had to travel to the Changeling Kingdom in order to rescue them. It was a long journey that tested our mettle, and friendships, as Chrysalis sent Changelings to impersonate my friends, and myself in an attempt to drive us apart. Not to mention all of the predators we had to go against on the way. Finally we reached her castle, but we still had puzzles and riddles to solve before reaching our goal. Unfortunately, the others were captured, and I had to face Chrysalis on my own. Chrysalis held my friends hostage and threatened to drain their love if I didn't join her and become her pupil. At the time, I nearly gave up, and accepted her terms. But as soon as the Secretariat Comet passed by our world, it amplified my own magic. After a long magical duel, I was able to defeat her, and trap her within her own castle walls. Just then, she came out stirring trouble again. She was able to find the remains of King Sombra, and the evil remains that were out of Princess Luna to summon Nightmare Moon. They captured Vincent, and made him serve under them. He launched an attack on Ponyville, Canterlot, and the Crystal Empire. My friends and I came face to face, and we we're able to break him from his mind control by reminding him of the good times we had as friends. He then confronts the villains, and he can summon the powers of the Elements of Harmony, and the Crystal Heart, into his own armor with the elements, and he was able to destroy them, including Chrysalis. But as you know, she has recently returned. I take it you remember the Queen all too well from the battle you had with her in the Everfree Forest...." Optimus nodded, as he remembered his encounter with the vile witch in the Everfree Forest just a few days ago. "Evil exists on all worlds, no matter how peaceful they can be. It is the natural balance of the universe, like it or not," Optimus stated. "But it is also our responsibility to make the correct choices in life." "I understand," she replied. "And it's also our responsibility to safeguard and protect our home from the said evil." Twilight then sipped her tea again. She then addresses the Autobot leader with her own questions. "How about Earth?" she asked. " While I've already heard about the story of Cybertron, regarding Megatron, and his Decepticons, what's your new home like?" "Planet Earth, is an organic based planet, much like your home of Equestria," Optimus explained. "It is home to a race of sentient hominids called humans." "Hominids? As in apes? Very interesting," Twilight stated as she continued to listen to Optimus's explaination. "They sound like the natives who live in the alternate universe through the magic mirror." "Yes, and while the humans are a highly intelligent race with advanced technology, they are still unaware of the existance of other worldly beings amongst their population. We keep ourselves hidden, and live as robots in disguise, as not to start a panic. While most humans try to live peaceful lives, there are some however, that have been corrupt with power, and fell to evil intentions." "I see," Twilight replied as she listened. "Very much like King Sombra, or Queen Chrysalis." "Indeed, my young friend. One in particular, was Colonel Leland Bishop, also known as Silas. Silas was a ruthless human male who wished to overthrow the current established government when he became disgruntled after his discharge from the military. He formed a terrorist organization called MECH. Silas and MECH would steal the most advanced and innovative technology available to further his plans for world domination. His ideals were very much like Megatron himself. Eventually, Silas became aware of our existance, and attempted to dissect us to learn about Cybertronian physiology. Soon, he was able to build his own makeshift Cybertronian, based off of my image. But thanks to our own human allies, we were able to thwart his diabolical schemes." "That's horrible," Twilight said after hearing the tale. "I'm glad you were able to stop him." "While some humans, like certain Cybertronians, are capable of evil deeds, that does not mean that we will condemn their kind because of the actions of a few. Humanity is still considered a young race, and are by no means perfect. While Humankind may be susceptible to darker intentions such as crime, violence, and war, they also have the potential and capacity to do heroic feats, for a greater good. I have witnessed their traits for compassion, courage, honor, justice, humility, and love. To me, we are all the same, be it a Cybertonian, a pony, or a human. All sentient beings, are equal, and deserve peace." "If they're anything like the people of the mirror dimension, then I know exactly what you're talking about. I guess in a way, we really AREN'T all that different," Twilight beamed at the Prime. "I would love to visit Earth some day." "And I personally, would welcome you to our new home," Optimus replied to her. Twilight then notices Optimus's uneasiness in what he was about to address next. "Is something wrong?" she asked. "The story I am about to tell you next, is not a pleasant one. It involves a great evil. There is great force of darkness that lies in the very core Planet Earth. Unicron, the Chaos Bringer," the Autobot explained. "Unicron, the Chaos Bringer? As in another spirit of Disharmony and Chaos, like Discord?" Twilight asked. "No. Unlike your Discord, Unicron is the ultimate evil. In the beginning, there was Primus, and there was Unicron. One the incarnation of creation, the other of destruction. For eons, Primus and Unicron battled. The balance of power shifted between them more times than could be counted. Only by creating, The Thirteen, the original Primes who proceeded me, was Primus finally able to defeat Unicron, and cast him out. Primus became the very core of our planet, Cybertron, creating life through the Well of the Allspark, while Unicron drifted through the cosmos aimlessly. Eventually due to gravitational force, debris from space gathered around the slumbering Titan, forming Planet Earth." Hearing this, Twilight's eyes widen. "You mean this, Unicron, IS Planet Earth?! But what if he awakens? What will happen to the humans?" she asked in concern. "We have already faced against Unicron during a planetary alignment in their solar system. The magnetic and gravitational fields awoken the Lord of Chaos. Causing the planet to mutate, as massive storm systems began to plague it's inhabitants. During the conflict, it was the one time in many millenia, that Megatron and I joined forces once again to stop Unicron's uprising. Megatron only wanted Unicron destroyed, so that he can conquer Earth in his own way. The battle was fierce, but thanks to Megatron's temporary alliance, we were able to reach the very spark of the Chaos Bringer. There, I unleashed the power of the Matrix of Leadership, to stop the evil force once and for all." The young alicorn princess was awestruck by his story. "The Matrix of Leadership?" she asked. "An artifact of the Primes. It is Primus's very essence, and what grants me the power of being a Prime. Only those worthy to lead, and with a pure spark, are chosen to be it's vessel." Optimus then opens his chest compartment, and shows her, a glowing golden orb at the center. "It's, beautiful!" Twilight beamed as she stared upon the Matrix. "Yes, the power of the Matrix I believe, is similar to your Elements of Harmony. Important relics used to safeguard our respective worlds." Optimus explained as he closes his chest compartment. "Earth and Cybertron are inexplictably linked to one another. Two halves of one whole. Primus and Unicron. It is all the more reason why we must stop Megatron from conquering the planet. Not just to protect the innocent lives that reside there, but to also never allow the Decepticons to harness the power of Unicron," Optimus said. "That's, pretty deep," Twilight responded, slightly at a loss for words. Twilight smiled at Optimus. She couldn't help but feel an overwhelming respect for him. His gentle nature, and selfless need to protect others, as well as his sage like wisdom made Twilight feel as if he were a second teacher and mentor to her. The very similarities she had with him also made her feel closer to the Autobot, as if he were like a father figure. "I'm glad to have met someone like you, Optimus," she said happily, and with great reverence. Twilight then begins to feel very tired. She had been researching with the Autobot all day. "As am I, to have met you, Princess Twilight," Optimus said to the young princess. " I only hope, that Earth has not fallen already. We have been away for far too long. There is no telling what Megatron may have done in our absence." He then notices, Twilight had nodded off, and fallen asleep. "Hmm, it has indeed been a long day for you, my little friend," Optimus said as he looks at her. "I hope I'm not interrupting." A new voice said from behind him. It's Princess Celestia walking up to him, with me beside her. "Not at all, your royal highness," Optimus replied. "Please, no need for formalities. Call me Celestia," the princess addressed the Autobot leader. "Very well, Celestia," Optimus responded. "To what do I owe the Honor?" "Vincent and I have found the book, and Luna is researching it as we speak. If all goes well, We should be sending you home fairly soon," Princess Celestia replied. Her voice took on a sad tone after that last part. Optimus had to admit for so short of time, strong bonds had been made with these special beings. "I'm sorry it has to come so fast," I told the princess. "Your majesty," Optimus began. "I would once again like to thank you for your generosity and kindness during our stay here. You have been a most benevolent host and a wise ruler and your disciples have been most loyal and helpful to us." Princess Celestia was touched. "Thank you so very much, Optimus. It has been an honor having you and your brave soldiers visit us. The truth is.. I will be sad to see you go. Our kingdom has been much, well, livelier since your arrival. You have also opened our minds about the aspect of the existance of other worlds and lifeforms not just through the dimensional mirror." "I have heard word of this mirror which grants access to an alternate universe. Where does it lead?" Optimus asked, curious about the artifact. "Only Twilight knows. Perhaps you should ask her some time," Celestia replied back. "Or ME," I added. Celestia then looked at her sleeping student. "Thank you for being so kind to my ponies, especially Twilight. If I'm not careful, you may replace me as her mentor and teacher," Celestia joked. Optimus gave a smile at the white alicorn princess. "And I believe that by her helping you return to your home, will also help her in honing her skills in being a princess. She only recently became an Alicorn and was coronated. It was her destiny." "Her destiny?" Optimus asked. "Twilight is not meant to live an ordinary life. She was destined for greatness in her future. She has since reached her ascension by becoming a Princess, much like myself, my sister, and Cadence. It's almost similar to the way Vincent became a lieutenant. He was determined. I'm sure you have a very similar story of how you became a leader yourself. Maybe you should tell us some time. Both Twilight and I, would love to hear it," Celestia then winked at him. "Perhaps," Optimus replied back to Celestia. His voice then took a more sorrowful tone. "Though, it is not a happy tale of how I became a Prime...." "I see... I apologize if I brought up any painful memories then," Celestia said hearing the pain and sadness in his voice. She felt a tinge of guilt for bringing up the subject, and heartbreak for the Autobot, after hearing his earlier story of what had befallen his homeworld of Cybertron. "It is, quite alright, princess." the Autobot reassured her. He then gives Celestia a warm smile, showing that he was not at all offended, and that he genuinely enjoyed her company. Celestia felt relief, and joy wash over her. She too, greatly enjoyed his company, and felt great respect for Optimus, as he too was a leader who cared for those under his watch. Like Twilight, she too, would greatly miss him and the other Bots once they returned to Earth. Optimus, Princess Celestia, and I another look at the sleeping Twilight Sparkle. "I will return her home to Ponyville," Optimus stated, as he gently scooped up Twilight in his hand, being careful not to wake her. "Have a safe journey home. We bid you both a good evening," Celestia responded, as she slowly walked out of the room. I then nodded to Prime, and followed the princess. Little do any of us know, Soundwave, in his military drone form, had been flying over Ponyville, spying on the activities of the Autobots. He had recorded the day's events, and is now on his way back to the Nemesis, to report his findings back to his master, Megatron.
Chapter 9"Are you sure we won't get into trouble for this?" A very nervous Apple Bloom asked Sweetie Belle, as she, and Scootaloo followed the little unicorn filly, as they made their way through the Everfree Forest. "It'll be fine, Apple Bloom. I'm sure we can get our cutie marks in forest navigation," the little unicorn replied. "I really have a bad feeling about this, girls," Scootaloo said as they made their way deeper into the forest. "I mean, I'm sure everything will be ok," Sweetie Belle reassured her two friends. Yet she herself was feigning courage, while truth be told, she was also scared. As they continued down the forest path, they heard some rustling sounds coming from behind the brush. The three fillies instantly freeze, and huddle together, in fright. "Umm, anypony there?" Apple Bloom asked in a nervous voice. Then, a very strong odor seemed to emminate from the brush of where the noises were coming from. "Eww, what is that?!" Sweetie Belle said in disgust, holding her nose with her hoof. "I dunno, but it really, REALLY stinks! I think something died on the other side of those bushes," Scootaloo complained, as she made gagging sounds. Apple Bloom, as grossed out by the smell as she was, took another whiff, she immediately recognized the smell. "Oh no, I know that smell. We have to get outta here, NOW!" the young earth pony shouted. But it was too late, from behind the brush, five large creatures jumped out and started snarling at the fillies. "TIMBERWOLVES!" Apple Bloom shouted, as the other two ponies screamed. The trio began to run as fast as they could, as the timberwolves gave chase. The wolves howled, and snarled as they chased the filles. Scootaloo trips and falls, as her two other friends quickly help her up, and continue to run, but the timberwolves were gaining on them. The chase led them deeper and deeper into the heart of the Everfree Forest. "Hurry!" Sweetie Belle shouted. "They're right behind us!" "What do you think I'm trying to do?!" Scootaloo screamed back as she and Apple Bloom continued to gallop with all their might. One of the timberwolves nearly catches up to Apple Bloom, and snaps it's jaws merely inches from the filly's hind legs. "AAAAAAAAHHHHHH!" she screamed at the top of her lungs. "Apple Bloom!!" Sweetie Belle called out to her friend in concern. "I'm alright, just keep runnin'!" the little earth pony filly yelled, but clearly the trio were running out of breath. It was clear that the fillies were getting exhausted. They couldn't keep this up much longer. As they continued to run for dear life with the wolves right on their heels, they eventually run into an area blocked off by a boulder. It was a dead end. "Sweetie Belle, what do we do now?" Scootaloo pleaded, but the unicorn filly had no answer. The three fillies hugged each other tightly, crying, and terrified as they prepared for the end. One of the timberwolves jumped at the girls, but as it was about to pounce on them, something smashes into the wolf, smashing it to pieces. The crusaders, dumbfounded and confused, looked up to see what had saved them. "Bad pooch," Wheeljack said with his faceplate covering his mouth. He deactivates his blaster and draws out his swords. "No treat for you." "WHEELJACK!" Sweetie Belle happily shouted in her squeaky tone. Wheeljack jumps off the boulder. "Any of you other mutts wanna piece of this?" Wheeljack threatened as he waved his swords in a fighting stance. Two more timberwolves lunged at the Autobot, who then, using his swords, smashes them both also to pieces. Another timberwolf tries to go after the crusaders when Wheeljack turns one of his hands into his blaster, and shoots it, as it explodes into a million pieces before it can reach the girls. The whole time, the Cutie Mark Crusaders watched in awe, and cheered the Autobot on. "Go get'em!" Apple Bloom shouted. "So awesome!" Scootaloo yelled. "You're the best!" Sweetie Belle beamed. The last timberwolf made a B-Line for the fillies. "Oh no you don't!" Wheeljack yelled as he intercepts the wolf, and with his giant metal foot, gives a massive kick. The timberwolf is sent flying, then slams into a tree, and shatters into pieces. Seeing that all of the opponents have been beaten, Wheeljack puts away his weapons, and retracts his faceplate, his mouth visible again. He then walks up to the girls with an annoyed look in his optics. "Thank you sooo much for saving us!" Sweetie Belle beamed at the Wrecker. "What are you three doing out here? This place isn't safe for kids to be running around on their own," he said in an authoritative tone. "Well, were were trying to see if we could get our cutie marks in forest navigation, but I guess that's not our special talent," Sweetie Belle said with a sad look on her face. Wheeljack simply sighed, then asked a question. "What's the deal? I mean, why do want these, marks so badly?" "Cutie marks define a pony. They show us what our special talents are," Sweetie Belle explained. "How about you? How did you get your cutie mark?" "What are you talking about?" Wheeljack asked. "I don't have one of those butt marks. I'm an Autobot, not a pony." "The one on your chest. That must be your cutie mark. I guess Autobots have them in different places on their bodies," Scootaloo added. "What, this?" Wheeljack pointed to the Autobot insignia on his chest. "I got this when I became a soldier. It was engraved on me when I enlisted. It's the symbol of the Autobots. Everyone who's a part of our faction has this on some part of their body." "Cool, maybe we can get one too!" Sweetie Belle shouted, as Apple Bloom and Scootaloo nodded in agreement. "I don't think so...." Wheeljack replied. "Look, it ain't safe out here in the woods, and I can't just leave you kids all alone either. You three better come with me for now." Suddenly, the various timberwolf pieces scattered about began to glow in a green aura, and started pulling themselves together. "Whoa, these mongrels can regenerate?" Wheeljack asked in astonishment. With that, Wheeljack transforms into his vehicle mode, and opens his doors. "Hop in, NOW!" he instructed as the fillies enter him. Wheeljack quickly revs his engine, and speeds off before the wolves can fully reassemble themselves. The drive was only a couple of minutes as Wheeljack reaches the Jackhammer, still downed from the crash several days ago. The crusaders exit Wheeljack as he transforms back into robot mode. "WOW!" the three girls say in unison. "Is that really an alien spaceship?" Scootaloo asked with wonder. "You could say that," Wheeljack answered. "That's my ship, the one and only, Jackhammer. Though she still needs repairs." "This is the coolest thing I've ever seen in my LIFE!" Sweetie Belle squeaked. "Can we go inside?" Apple Bloom asked. "Best you do, it'll be shelter for now," Wheeljack replied. As the Cutie Mark Crusaders enter the ship, they were awed and amazed at what they see. The interior was filled with equipment and technology they've never seen before. They begin to jump and hop all over the place. The girls also start to fiddle with all of the nick nacks inside the space craft. "Hey, HEY!" Wheeljack shouted. "What are you kids doing? Get away from that console. Stop, don't touch that!" "This is so cool!" Sweetie Belle beamed as she jumped on one of the computer consoles. "What does this do?" Sweetie Belle pushes a button, then suddenly, from the front of the ship, several laser cannons fire, blowing a tree to bits. "COOL!" the three fillies say in unison. "Scrap...." Wheeljack muttered. "What about this?" Apple Bloom asked as she hits another button. The engines of the Jackhammer ignite, as the entire ship rumbles. "Get away from there!" Wheeljack shouted, but it was too late. The Jackhammer's enjines then sputter, and give out. "You kids just completely fried my thrusters. Now I'm gonna have to start all over with the repairs again!" He scolded the three crusaders. "Oops," Sweetie Belle muttered sadly. "We're really really sorry." "We didn't mean to cause so much trouble," Apple Bloom said with a look of guilt in her eyes. "We just got excited. We wanna make it up to you," Scootaloo replied. "You can make it up to me, by sitting still, and staying out of trouble while I make my repairs," Wheeljack responded as he pulls out a blow torch and began to work on the engine block again. Several minutes pass, as Wheeljack continued the repairs on his engines, as the girls began to become bored. VERY bored. "Uhh, I'm so BORED," Sweetie Belle said as she scoots on the ground, "When is Wheeljack gonna finish his work?" "I don't think it should be that long," Apple Bloom answered as Scootaloo simply shrugged. Then they hear Wheeljack return to the cockpit, with a look of annoyance on his face. "What's wrong?" Sweetie Belle asked. "Ugghh, there's a busted fuel pipe in the anti-gravity diffuser. The space is too small, and I can't reach it to patch it up," he answered. "Hmm..." Sweetie Belle pondered. "Maybe we can help." "Yeah," Scootaloo added. "We should be small enough to reach it." "You serious?" Wheeljack asked, dumbfounded. "I can't let you do that. Too dangerous, plus do you even know how to patch up a leak?" "I helped Applejack fix some of the broken gutter pipes on the roof of the barn before. How hard can it be?" Apple Bloom asked. "A fuel line and a gutter pipe are two different things, kid," Wheeljack said."But I don't think we have any choice. Fine, I'll walk you through it. But if anything happens, I'm pulling you kids out. Outside, Wheeljack then hands some smaller tools to the three fillies. He then shows them the open hatch that leads to the fuel line. "Crawl in there, and it'll take you straight to the line. Once you see the leak, do your best to tighten the pipes, and patch the holes," he instructed. "Got it, Uncle Jackie!" Sweetie Belle saluted. "Uncle Jackie?!" Wheeljack said, bewildered. "Come on girls, let's do this," Sweetie Belle instructed. "CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS! ALIEN SPACESHIP REPAIR WORKERS YAY!" the three yell in unison, much to Wheeljack's audio processor's dismay. The three then enter the hatch, and make their way to the leak. Each of the crusaders had a safety line attached to them, so at the first sign of trouble, Wheeljack could pull them out. "You kids doing alright in there? Any trouble?" Wheeljack yelled into the hatch, but there was no answer. "Hey, Belle, Bloom, Scoots. Speak to me already." Still silence. "Scrap," Wheeljack muttered. "That's it, I'm getting you girls out of there." As Wheeljack was about to pull on the safety line, he felt a tug on it, then the sounds of hooves banging on the side of the hatch, as he then sees the girls as they crawl back out. "We did it! We fixed it!" Sweetie Belle beamed, as the girl give each other hoofbumbs. "Yeah, Sweetie Belle found the leak, and Apple Bloom tightened the pipes with a wrench. Then I used the blowtorch and welded it shut," Scootaloo explained. They then check their flanks....... nothing. "Aww, we're still blank flanks," Apple Bloom complained. "But we did everything right." "I'll be the judge of that," Wheeljack responded as he heads to the cockpit controls. "Here goes nothing." Wheeljack hits several buttons in the cockpit console, as the engines then roar to life. "Well, I'll be..... You girls really did do it! Nice work, kids," Wheeljack complimented them. "Cool! So is this thing ready to fly? 'Cause we wanna ride it!" Scootaloo beamed. "She's not air worthy yet. There's still extensive damage to the navigation system, and the flaps," Wheeljack answered. He then hears a bell sound go off. "Sweet, it's ready!" Wheeljack stated. "Huh? What's ready, Uncle Jackie?" Sweetie Belle asked. "The Energon I've been processing. We need this to survive, and power the Jackhammer. Hmm, looks like the crystals I gathered only had enough to make two canisters," Wheeljack replied. "Huh? I thought Princess Celestia said that nopony was allowed at that mountain because of what that Energon stuff does to unicorn magic," Apple Bloom said with a puzzled look. "Like you said, no ponies. But we Autobots have special permission. After all, we'd starve to death if we didn't harvest any. Optimus spoke to your princess about it," Wheeljack answered. "Looks like I'm gonna need more." He then looks at the fillies. "Well, I can't really leave you here by yourselves, so I guess you're coming with me on an Energon hunt." The three crusaders gave huge grins as they look at the Wrecker happily. "CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS! ENERGON MINERS! YAY!" "What have I gotten myself into?" Wheeljack muttered under his breath. As Wheeljack reaches the mountain in vehicle form, the crusaders sitting inside of him were very excited to have another chance of gaining their cutie marks. As Wheeljack comes to a stop, the girls exit him, as he transforms into robot form. "Stay out of trouble, and don't come into contact with the Energon. Especially you, Belle!" Wheeljack instructed. But as they walk towards the mountain, they see Rarity, mining for several jewels. "Rarity? I thought this place was off limits to ponies," Wheeljack said in puzzlement. "Ugghh, it's the ruffian," Rarity muttered, but then she sees the crusaders with him. "What are you three doing here? You should be back in Ponyville," she said to the crusaders. "We're helping Uncle Jackie find some Energon?" Sweetie Belle nervously answeted her sister. "WHAT? Are you insane?!" Rarity shouted at the Autobot. "You know what that Energon substance will do to a unicorn's magic!" "Yeah I know, but I couldn't just leave them alone at my ship," Wheeljack answered. "Your ship?" Rarity asked. "Long story. But again, why are you here?" Wheeljack asked his own question. "I'm looking for gems. And don't worry, this part of the mountain isn't off limits. There's no Energon in this area," she answered. "Well, since you girls are here, please give me a helping hoof in digging these gems up," Rarity instructed, as the crusaders give a sign of annoyance. "Hmph, why dig, when I can make your job a little faster," Wheeljack said as he walks up to where Rarity was digging. "And what do you think you're doing?" Rarity asked in an annoyed tone. "You'll see," Wheeljack replied as he removes an object attached to his hip. "You all might want to step back, and find some cover," Wheeljack said to the ponies. He then pushes a button on the object and places it on the ground where Rarity was previously digging. GRENADE! He then scoops up all of the ponies in his hands and runs for cover. "FIRE IN THE HOLE!" he shouted as a massive explosion goes off. "Grenades. Works everytime," he smirked. As soon as the dust from the explosion cleared, there was a huge gaping hole in the ground, with gems inside. "That, was awesome!" Sweetie Belle shouted as the other crusaders smiled and nodded in agreement. "You're the coolest, Uncle Jackie!" "Uncle Jackie?" Rarity asked in disbelief. She then sees the exposed gems, and shrieks in terror. "THE GEMS! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!" "What? I blew them outta the ground, right?" Wheeljack asked. "Yes, but you've also DESTROYED them! Just look! They're cracked, broken, and demolished!" "Sheesh, nothing ever seems to satisfy you," Wheeljack muttered. "You, are by far, the most undisciplined, uncivilized, and pig-headed individual I have EVER met! You're even worse than that Prince Blueblood brute!" Rarity hissed. "I'm a Wrecker, it's what I do," Wheeljack replied. "Now if you'll excuse me, I got Energon to mine." Rarity glared at the Autobot as she watches him head toward the mountain side where the Energon was located. "Well, good riddance. Come now girls, I may not have been able to harvest any gems today, no thanks to that ruffian, but I do have to make a stop by Sweet Apple Acres. I've already fixed Applejack hat for her, and I need to deliver it. Come now girls," Rarity said as the fillies follow her to Sweet Apple Acres. Sweet Apple Acres..... Bulkhead was roaring down the Apple Farm in his SUV form, with a plow chained on his front bumper. "YEE HAAWW!" Applejack, without her hat right now of course, shouted from the driver's seat as Big Macintosh sat in the passenger side. "Plowin' sure has gotten easier since you showed up Bulkhead." "Eeyup!" Big Macintosh responded. "Hey, glad I can help. I just want to make it up to you. Especially after you had to pay for all the damages I did in the market place." "Hey, think nothin' of it, big guy. But I do truly appreciate the help. We can always use some extra muscle on the farm!" Applejack cheerily said to the Autobot. "I'm just glad I'm finally doing something right for once. I tend to be a nuisance when I'm not fighting Cons," Bulkhead said. "Now don't you say that about yerself, partner! You're a big help. Heck, I think we can give Big Macintosh here that vacation he's been wantin' for a while now," Applejack stated. "Eeyup!" Big Macintosh said. "You know something, AJ? I'm actually kinda enjoying this. It's a nice break from all the fighting," Bulkhead said to the Apple siblings. "And we're happy to have ya, Bulk!" Applejack replied. Just then they see Rarity arrive with the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Bulkhead then drives up to the others as Applejack and Big Macintosh exit him and unchain the plow from his front. Bulkhead then transforms into robot mode. "Well hello, Applejack," Rarity greeted her friend, "I have your hat right here, and good as new." She give the hat to Applejack who is overjoyed to have it back. "Thanks a lot, Rares! It looks like that horrible tear never happened. Yer the best friend anypony could ever ask for!" She then turns her attention to Apple Bloom and the others. "So how's yer day been?" Applejack asked. "Well, we got to meet another one of the Autobots," Apple Bloom answered. "Oh? Who?" Bulkhead asked. "Wheeljack," Apple Bloom responded. "Heh, good old Jackie!" Bulkhead said as he gave a laugh. "You didn't give him any trouble did you?" "Well, we help him fix a fuel leak in his ship, which was one of the coolest things I've ever seen! I mean, an actual alien spaceship!" Sweetie Belle beamed. "He brought you aboard the Jackhammer. Heh, and he says I'm the one getting soft," Bulkhead teased. "Well, he's still an uncivilized ruffian. He destroyed the gems I was trying to harvest by using some explosive device to blow away a mountain side. The jewels were unsalvagable," Rarity complained. "HA HA! Sounds like Jackie!" Bulkhead laughed. Rarity merely groaned at the remark. "Hey come on, I know Jackie can be a big jerk. I've known him for centuries. He's a huge pain in the rear bumber I'll admit, but I can tell you this.... When scrap hits the fan, and things go south, you can always count on him to help you out. He's saved my worthless can countless times. He never backs down when a friend is in trouble." "I'll believe it when I see it," Rarity muttered. Just then, Wheeljack in vehicular form roars up to the farm. "Speaking of whom, there he is," Bulkhead pointed. Wheeljack transforms into robot form, and walks up to the others. "Howdy, Wheeljack!" Applejack tipped her hat at him. "Hey," Wheeljack responded. "Check it out, Bulk. Freshly processed Energon!" He then tosses a canister to Bulkhead, who catches it. "Just what the doctor ordered! Especially after the workout I just had," Bulkhead said. "Bottoms up, buddy!" Wheeljack stated as he and Bulkhead unscrew the tops, and began chugging the blue liquid down. Then they screw the tops back on. As they both finished, Wheeljack then lets out a loud beltch. Bulkhead, the crusaders, Applejack, and even Big Macintosh began to laugh at him. "I didn't know robots could do that. You're really funny, and I think you're the coolest Autobot, Uncle Jackie!" Sweetie Belle said while smiling at him. "Uncle Jackie, huh?" Bulkhead teased. "And you were making fun of me for being soft." "Well, not only are you uncivilized, but you are also utterly disgusting," Rarity complained again. "What can I say, toots, I'm uncouth," Wheeljack answered. "Well, at least we can agree on one thing. and don't call me TOOTS!" Rarity seethed. "Whatever you say, sunshine!" Wheeljack said with a smirk. "Why I NEVER!" Rarity fumed. "I gotta head back, need to do some more repairs, then harvest some more Energon. See ya later, guys," And with that, Wheeljack transforms and drives away. "Sweetie Belle, I think you should stay away from that Wheeljack character. He's such a horrible influence on one so young," Rarity said in a stern voice. "Why don't you spend some time around Optimus, instead. He's so polite, considerate, and quite charming." "And BORING!" Sweetie Belle responded. "I mean, I think Optimus is cool and all, he's a hero and he's really nice, but all he ever does is go to the library in Canterlot with Twilight. That's no fun at all." "You are hopeless, little sister," Rarity said, shaking her head in disapproval. "Well, we're goin' to the treehouse," Apple Bloom said to the others. "Let's plan on some more crusadin'." "Right behind you!" Sweetie Belle replied as she began to follow her friend, only for them to stop when they see Scootaloo wasn't coming along. "Scootaloo, are you alright?" Apple Bloom asked. "I'm fine, I just need to go and get my scooter. I left it at Sugarcube Corner. I'll be right back," the pegasus replied as she ran towards Ponyville. As Scootaloo walked down the streets of Ponyville towards Sugarcube Corner, she can already see Pinkie Pie, and the Autobot Smokescreen setting up some party decorations. The banner they were hanging up said "Welcome to Ponyville, Autobots!" Scootaloo was looking forward to this party. But as she got closer, a rotten tomato hits her in the head. "Well well well, if it isn't the flightless dodo bird blank flank," Diamond Tiara mocked as Silver Spoon stood next to her laughing. "Great, just who I DIDN'T want to see today," Scootaloo mumbled. "Where do you think you're going, Scootaloser!" Diamond Tiara said. "None of your business," Scootaloo replied as she tried to ignore them, only for Silver Spoon to trip her, as she falls flat on her face. The commotion caught Smokescreen and Pinkie Pie's attention. "Hey, what's going on over there? Isn't that Rainbow Dash's little friend?" Smokescreen asked. "Oh no, it's Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. They're at it again," Pinkie Pie said with a worried look. "What do you mean?" Smokescreen asked. "They're two of the biggest meanies at their school, and pick on ponies who don't have their cutie marks yet," Pinkie Pie explained. "Seriously?!" Smokescreen replied. They then see Diamond Tiara spit on Scootaloo's face. "Ha! You're nothing but a stupid little talentless blank flank. Nopony wants to be around you! Dodo bird freak! You're alone, and you'll ALWAYS be alone," Diamond Tiara sneered as Silver Spoon giggled. "Come on, Silver Spoon, lets book it before she spreads her lameness to us. Later, Scootaloser! Wouldn't wanna be a flightless chicken like you!" "You gotta be KIDDING ME!" Smokescreen scowled, seeing the little pegasus being tormented. The two bullies then wander off, laughing at their victim as they did so. Seeing what had just transpired, Smokescreen was disgusted, and walked over to the pegasus filly. The Autobot was clearly angered with what he just witnessed. Scootaloo had a sad look on her face. Feeling sympathy for her, Smokescreen then crouches down and speaks to the filly. "Hey, Scootaloo, right?" Smokescreen asked as he kneeled in front the filly. "You ok? Are you hurt?" "I'll.... be fine. Just leave me alone," Scootaloo responded. "What? No way, you're not fine. You shouldn't let them treat you like that," Smokescreen said in an annoyed tone. "But there's nothing I can do. Diamond Tiara is the daughter of Filthy Rich. He's the wealthiest pony in all of Ponyville. Everypony believes Diamond Tiara is a little angel, and nopony will believe me if I told them the truth," Scootaloo explained with tears in her eyes. "Still, you gotta stand up for yourself. Where's your self respect?" Smokescreen encouraged her. "How? I don't think anypony can," Scootaloo replied. "She keeps saying that I'm completely useless and untalented because I'm a blank flank, that I have nothing special, and that nopony would ever care about me." Hearing enough of Scootaloo's distress, Smokescreen decided to prove the bullies wrong, by bringing up her positive qualities and traits. "Nothing special.... talentless..... and that no one would care about you..... Is that so?" Smokescreen inquired. "Well she's wrong. You DO have someone that cares, a skill that's unique to you, and something very special that those two jerks don't have, and never will...." "Huh? What are you talking about?" Scootaloo asked. "First off, you look up to Rainbow Dash, right? Like she's your idol and hero if I'm not mistaking?" Smokescreen asked. "Well, yeah," Scootaloo replied. "And Dash has pretty much taken you under her wing as if you were her sister, am I right? Last I checked, that's the definition of someone who cares." The Autobot's words, sank into the filly. "Yeah.... she totally did. Because she's the most awesomest pegasus EVER!" Scootaloo beamed, feeling more uplifted. "I've also seen you ride your scooter. You drive that thing pretty well. The stunts you pulled off are pretty cool in my book, and they're not easy to do. I bet no other pony your age can pull of those feats. Talentless? I think NOT!" the Autobot stated, trying to lift her spirits. "Yeah, you're right," Scootaloo agreed. "Nopony else can ride a scooter like I can." "And another thing," Smokescreen added. "Does D.T. and her lackey, get to hang out with cool giant alien robots that can turn into cars, and shoot lasers?" Smokescreen said in a playful manner. "No.... I guess they don't!" Scootaloo replied, now in a better mood. "Exactly!" Smokescreen smirked. "And I'd say THAT'S something pretty special!" "Thanks, Smokescreen," Scootaloo beamed at the Autobot, "I see why you and Pinkie Pie get along so well. You also know how to make ponies smile." The Autobot in turn, also grins at the young pegasus filly. "You have it pretty good Scoots. You got friends who really care about you. So don't let punks like them drag you down. And I'm always here for ya, if you ever need me. BUT, that doesn't meant I'm gonna let those two off the hook either. I think it's high time I taught little Miss Perfect, and that sidekick of her's, a lesson in humility..... With some SWEET RETRIBUTION!" Smokescreen said with a smirk on his face. "Wait a sec... I don't like where this is going. You Autobots aren't supposed to harm ponies," Scootaloo said with a worried expression. "You can't just shoot them with your lasers." "Who said anything about.... harming?" Smokescreen replied with a wink. "I'm gonna talk to Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash real quick. Don't worry, those bullies will get what's coming to them." Back at Sweet Apple Acres, Bulkhead had instructed Applejack, and Big Macintosh to go ahead and place baskets under every apple tree in the orchard. "So what's this all about?" Granny Smith asked the bot. "Don't worry, I got this," Bulkhead said to the apple matriarch. As soon as he sees that the rest of the apple family have cleared the area, Bulkhead began his plan. "I still don't know what that big lug's got in that metal head of his," Granny Smith said to her grandchildren. "Trust us, Granny. It'll work out," Applejack reassured her. "I'm ready, AJ. Tell the rest of your family to get clear," Bulkhead instructed. "All over it, Bulkhead!" Applejack called out. "Eeyup!" Big Macintosh also responded. "Ok, here goes," Bulkhead said, as he transforms into vehicle mode. He then roars towards the orchard, and as soon as he reaches what was believed to be the center of the orchard, he immediately runs up a ramp that Applejack and the others set up for him, transforms in mid air, turns his right hand into a wrecking ball, and slams it into the ground hard as he lands. The ensuing shockwave created shakes the entire farm, and all of the apple in the trees fall into their baskets. "YEEE HAAAAWWW!" the Apple siblings shout in unison. "Well I'll be a fruitbat chasing a parasprite!" Granny Smith said in disbelief. "This is the best harvest yet!" Applejack shouted happily. "Eeyup!" Big Macintosh responded. Bulkhead then walks up to the others with a smile on his face. "Yer the best, Bulk!" Applejack said, as she hugs his leg. "It was nothing," Bulkhead replied, scratching the back of his head. Just then, they see a familiar big rig, yellow car, another car like it, except blue with flames, a dark red armored truck, and a motorcycle race towards the farm. "Hey, It's Optimus and the others," Bulkhead stated. The rest of the bots then transform into their robot forms. "So how'd your farming day go Bulkhead?" Arcee asked. "Perfect. Kinda fun, too," the Wrecker answered. "I am glad you are finding enjoyment during this intermission of peace, Bulkhead," Optimus said to him. Bumblebee gave a number of buzzes and blips. "Yeah," Arcee responded to the scout. "I heard Wheeljack stopped by with some fresh Energon." "I could sure use some," Hot Shot said. "Yeah, even I'M exhausted from all the mining," Swerve commented. "It's right here," Bulkhead said, as he tosses a canister to each bot. Just then from the other side of the farm, a familiar race car with screaming double 38's on it's doors races towards them, with Rainbow Dash flying above it. As soon as Smokescreen comes to a stop in front of the others, Pinkie Pie, and Scootaloo hop out, laughing like crazy. Rainbow Dash lands next to them, also rolling with laughter. Smokescreen transforms, and also joins in on the laughter. "What's so funny?" Hot Shot asked. "Ok, what did you guys do?" Arcee asked, slightly annoyed. "Oh man, I can't wait to show this to Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle," Scootaloo giggled, her eyes tearing up from laughing so hard. "What's that?" Bulkhead asked. Scootaloo shows the rest of the bots and the present apple family members a photo. It was a photo, of Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon, struggling to get out of a pit of mud. Applejack couldn't help but give a light chuckle, while Granny Smith and Big Macintosh looked on in confusion. Hot Shot was laughing hard, as was Swerve. "I fail to see the amusement of this photo," Optimus stated. "Long story short," Smokescreen explained. "These two girls in the picture? Bullies. Don't let their cute appearance fool you, they're the biggest jerks at their school. All they ever do is terrorize Scoots here and her friends. So I decided to give them a taste of their own medicine." "Yeah," Rainbow Dash added. "I never took old Smokey here to be a prankster. We should hang out more." Arcee simply rolled her optics. "That'll teach them to be big meanies!" Pinkie Pie added. "So what exactly did you do?" Bulkhead asked. (We see a vision of Scootaloo's explaination) "Well, Smokescreen dug a huge hole in the school playground, then Rainbow Dash took a raincloud and filled it with water. It soon mixed with the dirt, and turned into mud. Finally, Pinkie Pie covered it with grass, twigs, and leaves to hide it. As soon as Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon walked over.....SPLASH!" Scootaloo explained (ends vision by mud splashing to the screen), then began laughing hard again. "HAHAHAHAHAHA, that IS good!" Swerve said as he and Hot Shot kept laughing. As the pranksters continued to enjoy themselves, two armored pegasi decended to the farm. "Huh? The Royal Guard?" Applejack asked. As soon as the guards reached the group, one of them stepped forward. "Which one of you is the Autobot, Smokescreen?" he asked. "Uh, who wants to know?" Smokescreen asked. "Ah, so you're the culprit. I have something to give you," the guard said as he pulls out a parchment of paper. "You are hereby ordered to pay for the damages you have done to the local school grounds by order of the Mayor," the guard said as he read the scroll. "WHAT?! This is just a payback prank, Rrght?!" Smokescreen yelled. "Oh no," Pinkie Pie gasped. "Uh oh," Swerve muttered as Hot Shot was shocked to hear this. Rainbow Dash simply whistled and looked into another direction, while Scootaloo was also shocked at this event. "You must pay for the damages, or we will be forced to arrest you. I'm sorry, but these are the orders," the guard explained. "Optimus, there's gotta be something you can do, right?" Smokescreen pleaded with the Autobot leader. "I am afraid I cannot. You have clearly broken one of the laws of this world. And therefore face the consequences. I will, however, speak with the princess about this matter. Until then, you must find a way, to reimburse the local school." "You reap what you sew," Arcee smirked. "This is payback for that dressup doll remark the from other day, isn't it Cee?" Smokescreen shot her a look. Arcee simply giggled under her breath. "......Scrap!"
Chapter 11Today was the day. It was a day Twilight had been looking forward to for several months now. Although, most of her friends would not be joining her this time around, she was determined to make it count this time around instead of the disaster that happened the last time she went. Yes, it was indeed, the time for the Grand Galloping Gala. And she would not be alone. Optimus Prime, leader of the Autobots, had agreed to accompany her to the event. Of course, I'm needed to attend. Unlike past years, this time, the Gala would be held during the day time. Twilight and I were told the main reasoning for this was due to several dignitaries from other kingdoms would be in attendance. Princess Celestia had invited them in hopes to spread and promote peace across all of Equestria. In Ponyville, Optimus Prime pulled up to Twilight's treehouse in vehicle form, he sees Spike standing outside, waiting for him. "Hello, my young friend," Optimus addressed the dragon. "Hi, Optimus. Twilight will be ready in just a few moments. Man, I can't believe it's time for the Gala again. Except, I'm not going this time. I'll be here, tending the books," Spike replied. "I didn't exactly have a good time the last I went, but Twilight's been giddy as a filly all day." "This must be a very important event for her," Optimus said. "I certainly hope, she will enjoy herself." "Yeah, she's been wanting to share all the lessons in friendship she's learned over this year with Princess Celestia, personally," Spike replied. "I'm sure she'll have a better time around, especially with you there with her." Optimus would be smiling at Spike if he were in robot form. They then both hear the door to the library open. Twilight had exited, and was wearing her formal dress from her coronation several months back. "OPTIMUS!" she cheerfully called to the Autobot. "You're here! I'm so happy you can make it." "Of course, my young friend. I look forward to this meeting, as I have hopes it will help promote peace and understanding to all races on your world," Optimus said to the alicorn. Twilight, hearing his words, renewed her great respect for the Prime. "Thank you, for being so understanding," Twilight then continued. "So, umm..... How do I look?" She began to grow slightly nervous. "You look, rather pleasing to the optics, young lady," Optimus complimented as he opens his door. "Your chariot awaits." "You, really think so?" Twilight asked, her cheeks burning red. "Affirmative. I am sure you will perhaps, make the males of your species, as they say, turn their heads. You are a princess, after all." Twilight's face was now beet red. For a stern and nearly emotionless robot, Optimus knew how to compliment a girl. Twilight then climbs inside of Optimus's open door, as he then closes it. "We shall see you again soon, young Spike," Optimus said as Twilight waved at him from the rolled down window. "Stay out of trouble. I'll be back home tonight," Twilight called to the dragon, as Optimus began driving towards Canterlot and Spike waved goodbye. As they got closer to the capital, they can see the giant force field encasing all of Canterlot. No doubt, Shining Armor taught the spell to other unicorn guards. Several unicorn guards recognized Optimus in his vehicle form. They gave clearance to the Autobot, and opened a small hole in the force field bubble to allow him access. As Optimus drove in the streets of Canterlot, Twilight could see many ponies, from different races, from Pegasi, to Earth Ponies, to Unicorns, and even several Crystal Ponies from the Crystal Empire, lining up to enter the royal palace where the Gala was being held. She even saw some non-ponies, such as Horses from Saddle Arabia, Griffons, from the Griffon Kingdom, and Minotaurs, from the Minotaur Republic. All of them were dressed in formal attire. "I'm so excited! This is something I've been looking forward to for the past few months. Too bad the girls couldn't make it, but I'm very happy you're here, Optimus," Twilight said to the Autobot as they pull up to the castle. Twilight exits him as Optimus transforms into robot mode. The duo began to approach the castle. This was it, the Grand Galloping Gala, Twilight was going to make sure this year's was THE BEST ONE EVER! As Optimus walked behind Twilight, many of the guests began to stare in awe at his presence. They had heard about him, but some had never seen him in person, especially the foreigners like the Griffons, and Minotaurs. Finally, they reach the gate of the palace, where they could see both Princess Celestia, and Princess Cadance greeting the guests. As Twilight passed by the check in, she gives her ticket to the guard. Optimus then follows suit. "Umm....t....ticket, sir?" the guard nervously stammered, clearly intimidated by Optimus's sheer size. "I have it right here," Optimus says as he kneels on one knee and in his massive palm, lay the golden ticket. The unicorn guard then levitates it from his hand, and collects it. "Yes.....p...pp.... please enjoy yourself," the guard, still nervous at Optimus' presence, waved him in. "Well, that was rather awkward," Twilight said as she saw the entire event happen. They are then met by Princess Celestia and Cadence. "Twilight Sparkle, my most faithful student, and Optimus Prime, our most honored guest. I'm so glad you can make it," Princess Celestia greeted the two. "I'm glad to be here too, Princess Celestia," Twilight bowed. "I have so much to share with you." "It is an honor to be invited to such an occasion," Optimus answered as he kneeled on one knee. "Your brother and I are always happy to see you," Cadence said as she and Twilight embrace. "SUNSHINE SUNSHINE LADY BUGS AWAKE, CLAP YOUR HOOVES AND DO A LITTLE SHAKE!" they cheered together. "I see you're wearing the dress from your coronation. It still looks absolutely beautiful on you," Cadence complimented. "Thank you, Cadence. Now, let's get to the festivities," Twilight replied. The four then make their way into the castle. Little do they know, Soundwave was hovering in vehicle form over the city. He couldn't enter due to the force field erected, but he can still see and hear all that was happening. The Nemesis was fully repaired, as it soared high in the skies of Equestria, making it's way toward Canterlot. "Well, Knockout, it appears you finally did something right. Looks like I won't have to scrap you for spare parts," Megatron stated to the Decepticon medic. "Yes, Lord Megatron," Knockout replied, with a tinge of fear in his voice. "But if I may ask..... was it wise to let that Chrysalis creature and her minions to disembark on their own to the capitol? I don't trust any of those organics." "Rest assured, Knockout. Soundwave is monitoring all activities. He may not be able to enter the city, but he is still able to observe all events, as they happen. If there is any treachery from Chrysalis, we will know," Megatron answered. "My forces are ready, Lord Megatron," Dreadwing saluted. "The armada is fully prepped." "Excellent, Dreadwing. Once their force field has been brought down, the Seeker armada will attack. And have the Insecticons ready for backup," Megatron ordered. "At once, my liege," Dreadwing bowed. He then exits the bridge. "Lord Megatron," a Vehicon called to him. "We have some new information." "Yes, what is it?" Megatron asked. "While Soundwave is monitoring the capitol city, Laserbeak is still spying on the small town where the Autobots are staying at. It looks like they're all seperated in different locations. Some aren't even in the town, but in the forest next to it," the Vehicon reported. "He's right, Lord Megatron," Thundercracker replied. "They're all over the place for us to keep track with." "Hmm, then perhaps it is time, to make our presence known to this world," Megatron stated. "Since the Autobots have separated themselves from another, this will give us a tactical advantage." "Divide and Conquer!" Knockout boastfully said. "Indeed," Megatron added. "Knockout, contact Soundwave, and have him return to the ship. Tell him to have Laserbeak take over his surveillance of the capital. I have a task for him, Dreadwing, Wildrider, Rumble, Frenzy, AND you!" "As you wish, Lord Megatron," Knockout bowed. "Victory over the Autobots, and our return to Earth, will soon be at hand. Optimus Prime, and these Ponies, have no idea, what lies ahead for them." As Twilight entered the crowded main palace ballroom, she had apparently lost track of the princesses, and Optimus. She couldn't understand how that happened, especially with his sheer size. But she did find me. I was wearing the same uniform from the last Gala. "Vincent!" she called. "Hey, Twilight!" I called as we ran to each other and hugged. "I see your wearing your coronation dress." "And I see you're wearing the same uniform from the last Gala," Twilight added. "You look good." "Thanks. But not as beautiful as you." Twilight blushes at my compliment. "Optimus here, too?" I asked. "Yeah, but somehow I lost him, Princess Celestia, and Cadence." "Oh. Well, I'm sure you'll find them again, especially Prime," I said as she chuckled. Then as we walked down, there was Princess Luna at the center of the ballroom. "Princess Luna!" Twilight called out to her. "Ah, young Twilight Sparkle, and Lieutenant Vincent. Good to see you two again," Luna replied to us. "Likewise," Twilight said. "I know you're slightly upset about the Gala happening during the day, but I'm glad you're still enjoying yourself." "Yes, of course I am," Luna responded. "I will, get over it. Besides, the fun is to be had." Hearing this, Twilight smiled. She was happy to hear that the princess of the Night was at least still enjoying herself. Twilight's eyes then catch another familiar figure. Her brother, Shining Armor. "BBBFF!" she called to him. "Twily! Great to see you again. You too, Vince. Where's the rest of your friends?" he asked. "Um, they couldn't make it. It just doesn't feel the same without them. But at least Optimus came with me. I lost sight of him however, and I don't know how I did," Twilight said, with a disappointed tone. "Hey, don't worry about it. You'll run into him again. After all, he's hard to miss," Shining Armor joked, as Twilight smiled at him. "Hehehe, that's what I told her," I chuckled. We then hear what sounded like trumpets going off. The lights dim, and the spotlights then point to the red curtained stage at the center of the room. "You're just in time, Twily. The first show is about to start," Shining Armor said. "Show? There's a show this year?" Twilight asked. "Yep. Something to keep the dignitaries from the other kingdoms entertained," Shining Armor answered. "Oh yeah. You're not gonna believe who's doing the show," I dryly said to my friend. As the spotlights continued to point at the stage, a Royal Guard stepped up to the podium. "And now, fillies, and gentlecolts, I bring you our first show of the day. Behold the stage magic, of THE GREAT AND POWEFUL TRIXIE!" the guard announced as the curtains rise, and a number of sparklers and small fireworks go off. The curtains reveal, a silver maned, blue unicorn, with a purple wizard's hat and cape. A unicorn Twilight and I knew all too well. It's Trixie alright... "Trixie???" Twilight gasped in confusion. "What's she doing here?" "Tell me about it," I muttered. "You know her Twily?" Shining Armor asked. "Princess Celestia hired her to be our entertainer." "She also has an ego the size of the moon. She also nearly became a dictator in Ponyville. But I guess I can't blame her for that one. She was under the corruption of the Alicorn Amulet. Trixie seemed to have learned from that incident. However, I still can't help but feel somewhat nervous around her." Twilight explained to him. All of this flew over Shining Armor's head. He didn't know what was going on. "It's complicated, sir," I said to the prince. "Prepare to be dazzled, by the magical show of the Great and Powerful Trixie!" Trixie called as more lights exploded around her. Her horn lights up, and a bouquet of flowers materializes out of no where and hovers in front of her. The crowd gives an applause, while Twilight simply sighs. "Well, hopefully she won't brag too much," Twilight said as she tried to enjoy herself. "Still, where's Optimus?" Trixie then levitates her hat in the air, turns it upside down, and flowers bloom from it. She then blows on the flowers, and they all turn into bubbles, as they fly into the crowd. There were more cheers and applauses, especially from the Griffons, Minotaurs, and Horses present. "And now, the Great and Powerful Trixie, will need a volunteer," she said as multiple hooves, hands, and claws rose. "How about you? Ah, yes, the prince of the Crystal Empire!" Trixie stated, pointing at Shining Armor. "Me?" Shining Armor asked. "Him?" Twilight also asked. "Twilight Sparkle? Well, I suppose the Great and Powerful Trixie shouldn't be surprised to see you here. I know Vincent's suppose to be here. But, as you can see, I'm simply a traveling magician now, and a showmare. I promise, I'm not up to anything." She then took a closer look at her former rival. "Umm, since when did you have wings?" Trixie said. "Haven't you heard?" Twilight answered her. "I'm a princess now." "WHAT??!!" Trixe shouted in astonishment "How, wha... when??" "It was announced to the entire kingdom, I'm surprised you didn't hear about it. Anyways, I would love to see your show," Twilight answered. Trixie was a little dumbfounded, and jealous that Twilight Sparkle had one-upped her again. But she decided to let it go. Her last attempt of trying to get even ended extremely badly. Trixie had learned her errors, the hard way. But she still couldn't help but feel her pride being wounded again. "Now, as for my volunteer, this way, prince of the Crystal Empire," she directed Shining Armor to the stage. "Trixie, if anything happens to my brother..." Twilight began to say. "Your brother? HE'S YOUR BROTHER?!" the showmare shouted. She then regains her composure after having another revelation drop on her. "Don't worry, he'll be safe, I assure you." "Well, you better get going.... prince," Twilight teased her brother. "Here goes nothing," Shining Armor said as he approached the stage "Please, stand right there.... Perfect!" Trixie instructed as Shiny stood in the middle of the stage. "Now for my next trick," Trixie then takes off her hat, and sticks her right hoof into it. From the top of the stage, a giant blue hoof came down, and scooped up Shining Armor. "WHAT THE??!!!" he shouted as it pulled him upwards. The hoof and the prince then disappear. "WHAT DID YOU DO TO MY BROTHER?!" Twilight angrily shouted. "Don't worry. Like Trixie said, he's perfectly fine," Trixie answered. She then pulls her hoof out of the hat, and holding what appears to be a miniature Shining Armor. She then places him on the ground. He looks up at the giant Trixie, confused. "Now, ALAKAZAM!!!" Trixie shouted as she shoots a pink beam from her horn at Shining Armor. As the smoke cleared, Shining Armor was now back to his normal size. The crowd gave a huge cheer as they clearly enjoyed the show. "Thank you, thank you all," Trixie said as she stood on her hind legs. "The Great and Powerful Trixie always enjoys putting on a great show to entertain others." 1 Chapter 11 PreviousChapters Next Today was the day. It was a day Twilight Sparkle had been looking forward to for several months now. Although, most of her friends would not be joining her this time around, she was determined to make it count this time around instead of the disaster that happened the last time she went. Yes, it was indeed, the time for the Grand Galloping Gala. And she would not be alone. Optimus Prime, leader of the Autobots, had agreed to accompany her to the event. Unlike past years, this time the Gala would be held during the day time. Twilight was told the main reasoning for this was due to several dignitaries from other kingdoms would be in attendance. Princess Celestia had invited them in hopes to spread and promote peace across all of Equestria. In Ponyville, Optimus Prime pulled up to Twilight's treehouse in vehicle form, he sees Spike standing outside, waiting for him. "Hello, my young friend." Optimus addressed the dragon. "Hi, Optimus. Twilight will be ready in just a few moments. Man, I can't believe it's time for the Gala again. Except, I'm not going this time. I'll be here, tending the books." Spike replied. "I didn't exactly have a good time the last I went, but Twilight's been giddy as a filly all day." "This must be a very important event for her." Optimus said, "I certainly hope, she will enjoy herself." "Yeah, She's been wanting to share all the lessons in friendship she's learned over this year with Princess Celestia, personally." Spike replied, "I'm sure she'll have a better time around, especially with you there with her." Optimus would be smiling at Spike if he were in robot form. They then both hear the door to the library open. Twilight Sparkle had exited, and wearing a formal dress from her coronation several months back. "OPTIMUS!" Twilight cheerfully called to the Autobot, "You're here! I'm so happy you can make it." "Of course, my young friend. I look forward to this meeting, as I have hopes it will help promote peace and understanding to all races on your world." Optimus said to the Alicorn. Twilight, hearing his words, renewed her great respect for the Prime. "Thank you, for being so understanding." Twilight then continued, "So, umm..... How do I look?" She began to grow slightly nervous. "You look, rather pleasing to the optics, young lady." Optimus complimented, as he opens his door. "Your chariot awaits." "You, really think so?" Twilight asked, her cheeks burning red. "Affirmative. I am sure you will perhaps, make the males of your species, as they say, turn their heads. You are a Princess, after all." Twilight's face was now beet red. For a stern and nearly emotionless robot, Optimus knew how to compliment a girl. Twilight then climbs inside of Optimus' open door, as he then closes it. "We shall see you again soon, young Spike." Optimus said, as Twilight waved at him from the rolled down window. "Stay out of trouble. I'll be back home tonight." Twilight called to the dragon, as Optimus began driving towards Canterlot. As they got closer to the capital, they can see the giant force field encasing all of Canterlot. No doubt, Shining Armor taught the spell to other unicorn guards. Several unicorn guards recognized Optimus in his vehicle form. They gave clearance to the Autobot, and opened a small hole in the force field bubble to allow him access. As Optimus drove in the streets of Canterlot, Twilight could see many ponies, from different races, from Pegasi, to Earth Ponies, to Unicorns, and even several Crystal Ponies from the Crystal Empire, lining up to enter the royal palace where the Gala was being held. She even saw some non-ponies, such as Horses from Saddle Arabia, Griffons, from the Griffon Kingdom, and Minotaurs, from the Minotaur Republic. All of them were dressed in formal attire. "I'm so excited! This is something I've been looking forward to for the past few months. Too bad the girls couldn't make it, but I'm very happy you're here, Optimus." Twilight said to the Autobot, as they pull up to the castle. Twilight exits him, as Optimus transforms into robot mode. The duo began to approach the castle. This was it, The Grand Galloping Gala, Twilight was going to make sure this year's was THE BEST ONE EVER! As Optimus walked behind Twilight, many of the guests began to stare in awe at his presence. They had heard about him, but some had never seen him in person, especially the foreigners like the Griffons, and Minotaurs. Finally, they reach the gate of the palace, where they could see both Princess Celestia, and Princess Cadance greeting the guests. As Twilight passed by the check in, she gives her ticket to the guard. Optimus then follows suit. "Umm....t....ticket, sir?" The guard nervously stammered, clearly intimidated by Optimus' sheer size. "I have it right here." Optimus says as he kneels on one knee and in his massive palm, lay the golden ticket. The unicorn guard then levitates it from his hand, and collects it. "Yes.....p...pp....Please enjoy yourself." The guard, still nervous at Optimus' presence, waved him in. "Well, that was rather awkward." Twilight said as she saw the entire event happen. They are then met by Princess Celestia and Cadance. "Twilight Sparkle, my most faithful student, and Optimus Prime, our most honored guest. I'm so glad you can make it." Princess Celestia greeted the two. "I'm glad to be here too, Princess Celestia," Twilight bowed, "I have so much to share with you." "It is an honor to be invited to such an occasion." Optimus answered, as he kneeled on one knee. "Your brother and I are always happy to see you." Cadance said as she and Twilight embrace. "SUNSHINE SUNSHINE LADY BUGS AWAKE, CLAP YOUR HOOVES AND DO A LITTLE SHAKE!" They cheered together. "I see you're wearing the Dress from your coronation. It still looks absolutely beautiful on you." Cadence complimented. "Thank you, Cadence. Now, let's get to the festivities." Twilight replied. The four then make their way into the castle. Little do they know, Soundwave was hovering in vehicle form over the city. He couldn't enter due to the force field erected, but he can still see and hear all that was happening. The Nemesis was fully repaired, as it soared high in the skies of Equestria, making it's way toward Canterlot. "Well, Knockout, It appears you finally did something right. Looks like I won't have to scrap you for spare parts." Megatron stated to the Decepticon medic. "Yes, Lord Megatron." Knockout replied, with a tinge of fear in his voice. "But if I may ask..... Was it wise to let that Chrysalis creature and her minions to disembark on their own to the capital? I don't trust any of those organics." "Rest assured, Knockout, Soundwave is monitoring all activities. He may not be able to enter the city, but he is still able to observe all events, as they happen. If there is any treachery from Chrysalis, We will know." Megatron answered. "My forces are ready, Lord Megatron." Dreadwing saluted. "The armada is fully prepped." "Excellent, Dreadwing. Once their force field has been brought down, the Seeker Armada, will attack. And have the Insecticons ready for backup." Megatron ordered. "At once, my liege." Dreadwing bowed. He then exits the bridge. "Lord Megatron." A Vehicon called to him, "We have some new information." "Yes, what is it?" Megatron asked. "While Soundwave is monitoring the capital city, Laserbeak is still spying on the small town where the Autobots were staying at. It looks like they're all seperated in different locations. Some aren't even in the town, but in the forest next to it." The Vehicon reported. "Hmm, then perhaps it is time, to make our presence known to this world." Megatron stated. "Since the Autobots have separated themselves from another, this will give us a tactical advantage." "Divide and Conquer!" Knockout boastfully said. "Indeed." Megatron added. "Knockout, contact Soundwave, and have him return to the ship. Tell him to have Laserbeak take over his surveillance of the capital. I have a task for him, Dreadwing, AND you!." "As you wish, Lord Megatron." Knockout bowed. "Victory over the Autobots, and our return to Earth, will soon be at hand. Optimus Prime, and these Ponies, have no idea, what lies ahead for them." As Twilight entered the crowded main palace ballroom, she had apparently lost track of the princesses, and Optimus. She couldn't understand how that happened, especially with his sheer size. But she then sees Princess Luna, standing in the center of the room. "Princess Luna!" Twilight called out to her. "Ah, Young Twilight Sparkle. Good to see you again." Luna replied to the young princess. "Likewise. I know you're slightly upset about the Gala happening during the day, but I'm glad you're still enjoying yourself." "Yes, of course I am." Princess Luna responded, "I will, get over it. Besides, the fun is to be had." Hearing this, Twilight smiled. She was happy to hear that the Princess of the Night was at least still enjoying herself. Twilight's eyes then catch another familiar figure. Her brother, Shining Armor. "BBBFF!" she called to him. "Twily! Great to see you again. Where's the rest of your friends?" he asked. "Um, they couldn't make it. It just doesn't feel the same without them. But at least Optimus came with me. I lost sight of him however, and I don't know how I did." Twilight said, with a disappointed tone. "Hey, don't worry about it. You'll run into him again. After all, he's hard to miss." Shining Armor joked, as Twilight smiled at him. They then hear what sounded like trumpets going off. The lights dim, and the spotlights then point to the red curtained stage at the center of the room. "You're just in time, Twily. The first show is about to start." Shining Armor said. "Show? There's a show this year?" Twilight asked. "Yep. Something to keep the dignitaries from the other kingdoms entertained." Shining Armor answered. As the spotlights continued to point at the stage, a royal guard stepped up to the podium. "And now, Fillies, and Gentlecolts, I bring you our first show of the day. Behold the stage magic, of THE GREAT AND POWEFUL TRIXIE!" The guard announced as the curtains rise, and a number of sparklers and small fireworks go off. The curtains reveal, a silver maned, blue unicorn, with a purple wizard's hat and cape. A unicorn Twilight knew all too well. "Trixie???" Twilight gasped in confusion. "What's she doing here?" "You know her Twily?" Shining Armor asked. "Princess Celestia hired her to be our entertainer." "She also has an ego the size of the moon. She also nearly became a dictator in Ponyville. But I guess I can't blame her for that one. She was under the corruption of the Alicorn Amulet. Trixie seemed to have learned from that incident. However, I still can't help but feel somewhat nervous around her." Twilight explained to her brother. All of this flew over Shining Armor's head. He didn't know what was going on. "Prepare, to be dazzled, by the magical show of the Great and Powerful Trixie!" Trixie called as more lights exploded around her. Her horn lights up, and a bouquet of flowers materializes out of no where and hovers in front of her. The crowd gives an applause, while Twilight simply sighs. "Well, hopefully she won't brag too much." Twilight said, as she tried to enjoy herself. "Still, where is Optimus?" Trixie then levitates her hat in the air, turns it upside down, and flowers bloom from it. She then blows on the flowers, and they all turn into bubbles, as they fly into the crowd. There were more cheers and applauses, especially from the Griffons, Minotaurs, and Horses present. "And now, the Great and Powerful Trixe, will need a volunteer." She said, as multiple hooves, hands, and claws rose. "How about you? Ah, yes, the Prince of the Crystal Empire!" Trixie stated, pointing at Shining Armor. "Me?" Shining Armor asked. "Him?" Twilight also asked. "Twilight Sparkle? Well, I suppose the Great and Powerful Trixe shouldn't be surprised to see you here. But, as you can see, I'm simply a traveling magician now, and a showmare. I promise, I'm not up to anything." She then took a closer look at her former rival. "Umm, since when did you have wings?" "Haven't you heard?" Twilight answered her, "I'm a princess now." "WHAT??!!" Trixe shouted in astonishment "How, wha...when??" "It was announced to the entire kingdom, I'm surprised you didn't hear about it." Twilight answered her. Trixie was a little dumbfounded, and jealous that Twilight Sparkle had one-upped her again. But she decided to let it go. Her last attempt of trying to get even ended extremely badly. Trixie had learned her errors, the hard way. But she still couldn't help but feel her pride being wounded again. "Now, as for my volunteer, this way, Prince of the Crystal Empire." She directed Shining Armor to the stage. "Trixe, if anything happens to my brother..." Twilight began to say. "Your brother? HE'S YOUR BROTHER?!" the showmare shouted. Trixie then regains her composure after having another revelation drop on her, "Don't worry, he'll be safe, I assure you." "Well, you better get going.... Prince." Twilight teased her brother. "Here goes nothing." Shining Armor said, as he approched the stage. "Please, stand right there.... Perfect!" Trixie instructed as Shining stood in the middle of the stage. "Now for my next Trick." Trixie then takes off her hat, and sticks her right hoof into it. From the top of the stage, a giant blue hoof came down, and scooped up Shining Armor. "WHAT THE??!!!" He shouted as it pulled him upwards. The hoof, and the prince then disappear. "WHAT DID YOU DO TO MY BROTHER?!" Twilight angrily shouted. "Don't worry, Like Trixie said, he's perfectly fine." Trixie answered. She then pulls her hoof out of the hat, and holding what appears to be a miniature Shining Armor. She then places him on the ground. He looks up at the giant Trixie, confused. "Now, ALAKAZAM!!!" Trixie shouted, as she shoots a pink beam from her horn at Shining Armor. As the smoke cleared, Shining Armor was now back to his normal size. The crowd gave a huge cheer as they clearly enjoyed the show. "Thank you, thank you all. The Great and Powerful Trixie always enjoys putting on a great show to entertain others." She then gives Twilight a smug look. "Enjoy that?.... Princess?....." Twilight merely rolled her eyes to the remark as Shining Armor walked back to her side. "Wow, that was weird," he said, still scratching his head, trying to figure out what kind of spell that was. "You gotta admit, that was pretty impressive," I added. "Now then," the guard at the podium stated. "It is time for another special moment. Please give a warm welcome to Princess Celestia, and a great guest of honor she has personally invited." All eyes were now at the main doors, as the spotlight shone on it. As it slowly opened, Princess Celestia stepped through, next to her, was none other, than the Autobot leader himself, Optimus Prime. At first, there was silence, as the guests were awed by Optimus's presence, then they began to clap, and then cheer. "Thank you all," Princess Celestia said. "This is indeed a great moment for our world." "I am honored and humbled by your reception," Optimus addressed everyone. "My name, is Optimus Prime, And it is a great pleasure for me to be here. To help promote peace to all. I know that many of you are all different races, but to me, I see you all as equals. Be you Ponies, Griffons, Minotaurs, Horses, or even one such as myself, a Cybertronian, for to me, you are all magnificent in your own special way." Hearing this, the crowd gave another applause. Twilight's admiration for Optimus never felt stronger. I was just applauding as well. "But, I thought I was the main attraction!" Trixie complained. "What was that?" Twilight teased and I glared at Trixie with a low dog growl. "N... Nothing!" Trixie gave a nervous smile. "I have invited all of you from different kingdoms to help promote peace, equality, and friendship amongst all. Let us all make this, the best Grand Galloping Gala ever!" Princess Celestia addressed the guests as they all cheered. As Smokescreen and Pinkie Pie walked down the streets of Ponyville, Pinkie was too busy saying "Hi" to literally everyone in town. "You sure have a lot of friends, Pinkie," Smokescreen said to the party pony. "Of course!" Pinkie squealed, "I know everypony in Ponyville, and everypony is my friend!" Smokescreen smiled, as they continued to walk. "We'll have that party ready soon. Say, where's Optimus? I haven't seen him all day. He back in Canterlot?" Smokescreen asked. "YUP! He's at the Gala with Twilight and Princess Celestia. Some formal ball. It's too boring for my taste," Pinkie answered. "Optimus? At a Ball? Now I've heard everything. Still, it would be funny to see," Smokescreen laughed. The two friends shared a fit of laughter and jokes, until Pinkie Pie heard something fly overhead. "Hey, what's that roaring sound?" Pinkie Pie asked. "Huh?" Smokescreen was confused as he also heard the same noise. It sounded familiar to him. He then looks up, and sees what appears to be a number of what appears to be flying cars with wings. No wheels. "What? No.... Seekers? Here? It can't be..... THEY CAN'T BE HERE!" Smokescreen yelled in terror. "How is this even possible?" "Smokescreen, what's wrong?" Pinkie asked in concern. "The Cons, THEY'RE HERE!" Smokescreen yelled. "If Megatron and the Decepticons are in Equestria, then you're in danger. We're ALL in danger!" Smokescreen immediately transforms into vehicle mode, and opens his door. "Get in, we gotta find the others. We have to warn them... NOW!" Smokescreen yelled as Pinkie hopped in and he closes his door and drives off.
Chapter 15Princess Celestia slowly began to open her eyes, as she woke up. Her body was aching and sore. For a second, she wasn't able to tell where she was. The last thing she remembered was the Decepticon and Changeling attack on Canterlot, being defeated by Megatron, and her ordering the evacuation of her capital. As the princess began to observe hers surroundings more so, she realized she was imprisoned, and encased within a large green cocoon. Very similar to what happened during Shining Armor's and Princess Cadance's wedding with the previous Changeling attack. Through the one transparent window like part of the cocoon, she can see that she was also inside a dark, large, metal room. A room she had never seen before. Next to her own cocoon, she spots another one. Through the window like spot, she could see the occupant of the other. It was none other than her own sister, Princess Luna, inside and still unconcious. "LUNA!" she called out to her sister, but to no avail. The princess of the night, did not awaken. "Luna, oh dear sister," Celestia lamented, "please be alive. Please wake up." "Ah, so you're finally up," a mocking voice could be heard. Queen Chrysalis came into view, as she approached the imprisoned sun princess. "You!" Celestia angrily stated. "What have you done to her? Where am I?" "Why, you're aboard the Decepticon ship, in one of their brigs. I took the liberty of encasing both you and Luna in cocoons, as it was able to hold you the last time we encountered each other," Chrysalis gloated. "And as I recall, it was a quite effective tactic. As for your sister, don't worry. She's still alive and in hibernation, for now." "You WON'T get away with this, Chrysalis! Twilight Sparkle, her friends, and the Autobots will stop you." "Oh, I don't think so, my dear Celestia," Chrysalis taunted. "For you see, Optimus Prime has also been taken prisoner, along with three other Autobots. The rest of the Bots, have been destroyed. And as an added bonus, we even have poor, sweet, Rarity also a prisoner aboard this vessel. Somewhere anyway." Celestia's eyes widen as she listened to Chrysalis' explaination. "You're lying!" the princess responded. "Then why don't you see for yourself," Chrysalis said, as she flies up to a set of buttons on the wall, and presses one. Suddenly, a viewscreen monitor turns on, showing Bulkhead, Swerve, Arcee, and Optimus Prime, imprisoned in another brig, strapped to the wall, with stasis cuffs. Celestia couldn't believe her eyes. She felt her heart skip a beat. The princess never imagined that her new and powerful friends could be defeated, and taken prisoner. Princess Celestia, was at a loss. "A marvelous piece of technology, if I say so myself," Queen Chrysalis said, while fawning over the Cybertronian tech. "So what now? Are you going to simply imprison me here for the rest of my days?" Celestia angrily said. "Oh Megatron and I have something special planned, for both you AND Prime. Not to mention, the lovely Rarity will be sacrificed, for their science." The princess could feel her blood run cold at the statement of Rarity's fate. "No, please!" Celestia begged. "You can do anything you want to me, but release poor Rarity." "Fool!" Chrysalis replied, "I can't risk an Element bearer to usurp my plans. And what better way to have somepony else to deal with her, and not get my own hooves dirty." "You fiend. I WILL find a way to free myself, and the others, and bring you down," Celestia said, with determination. "You'll try, and you'll fail. It's over," Chrysalis gloated. Suddenly, the door of the brig opens, and another figure steps into the room. As Chrysalis and Celestia look up to see who had entered, Megatron simply eyes the two, as he calmly walks up to them. "Chrysalis," the Decepticon leader addressed the Changeling queen, "Leave us. I have some rather, important matters to discuss with the princess." "Surely you don't expect me to leave you alone with her," Chrysalis replied. "I said LEAVE US!" Megatron commaned again. "You are aboard MY ship, and therefore, I am in command! Now take your leave, and vacate immediately!" Chrysalis, seeing that Megatron will not be detered, simply nodded. "Very well, Oh gracious Lord Megatron." With that, Chrysalis exits the room, as the door closes behind her. As Chrysalis walks out into the hall, she is greeted by another one of her Changeling guards. "My Queen," the guard said to her. "Canterlot is ours. The population, as well as the dignitary guest from their ball are now our prisoners. We are holding them in the castle dungeon. Your throne awaits." He then bows to her. "Well done, my child," Chrysalis replied to her minion. "Now that we control the Capital of Equestria, my ambition only grows. Once Celestia and these accursed Autobots are dealt with, we shall find a way to rid ourselves of Megatron and these Decepticons as well, and take this mighty vessel for ourselves. Megatron has proven himself to be quite the powerful ally. However, his arrogance, pride, and bigotry towards all not of his kind will eventually turn him into a most dangerous enemy. We must play our cards right, and strike when he least expects it. We will destroy Megatron, and claim this flying fortress as our own mobile palace. We can then mobilize our hives, and spread across the entire world, consuming all the love Equestria has to offer." Back inside the brig, Megatron stares at the Celestia's cocoon, still hanging from the ceiling next to Luna's. He then addresses the imprisoned alicorn princess. "A new power currently dominates your world, princess. But we do not have to be adversaries," Megatron said. "What do you want from us, Megatron?" Princess Celestia demanded. "Only for a means, for us to return to planet Earth. We Decepticons never meant you ponies any harm." He stated. "Never meant any harm?" Celestia was disgusted. "You attacked my home, terrorized my citizens, and took me prisoner! If you truly claim that you never intended to wage war with us, then you will release my sister and I, and restore us back to our proper positions as rulers of our kingdom." "Ah, my dear Princess Celestia," Megatron began to say. "I admit that war brings out the worst in me, and has indeed clouded my judgement. But our main focus, was defeating Optimus Prime, and his Autobots. The conflict is now over with the Autobots dealt with, and our quarrel has never been with your kind. Now that the true enemy of the Decepticons are defeated, my one true desire, is to leave your world, peacefully." Celestia wasn't buying it. "Don't try any of your games on me. I know you can't be trusted," she responded. "I won't fall for your deceptions and lies. Allying yourself with Chrysalis was also folly. She will eventually betray you." "Oh I already am aware of that, which is why I have a proposition for you," the Decepticon bargained. "What do you mean?" Celestia asked, suspicious of his actions. "I originally allied myself with her, so that she could send us back to Earth with her, magical abilites. But I do not trust the witch. Instead however, perhaps YOU can perform the spell and return us to our proper home. Think of it, we'll be out of your way, and never set foot on your planet ever again. Agree to this bargain, and I will see to it, you and your dear sister, are properly reinstated as rulers of this world." "And what of Optimus Prime?" Celestia demanded to know. "He will be my prisoner of war, and eventually executed for war crimes against the Decepticons," Megatron answered. "No deal!" Celestia said defiantly, "I will not allow you to harm him or any other members of his team. The Autobots are my dearest friends, and I will not agree to terms that will doom them. And as much as I want you OFF of Equestrian soil, I also refuse to allow another world to be subjegated to your tyranny. I won't sacrifice another world full of innocent lives just to safeguard my own. I don't bargain with Megalomaniacs. We will find a way to defeat you on our own so that no other world will fall to your evil!" "Foolish decision, princess," Megatron said to her. "If that is the case, then your skies will rain molten steel, and fire. Your land and cities will be reduced to ashes, and finally, once all hope has been extinguished, the blood of your citizens, will flood the street. You will regret defying me!" Megatron then gives Celestia a hard glare, then laughs evilly. "You should have taken my offer, but now, you will witness your world's dismemberment." With that statement, Megatron leaves the room. Celestia was left, to lament on her decision. "Oh Luna..... have I made the right decision? Have I doomed us all?" "Princess?" another voice said, from behind the wall. "Optimus? Is that you?" Celestia asked, with a glimmer of hope shining in her heart. "Yes, it is I," Optimus answered, from the brig next to her's. "Are you injured in any way?" "I'm still quite healthy, thank you," Celestia answered, now with a slight smile. "Oh Optimus, I hope I didn't just make a mistake. As tempted as I was with Megatron's offer of leaving my world, I just couldn't agree to his terms. I just won't be able to live with myself if I doomed the population of another world just to save my own. But now, I may have just destroyed all of Equestria. Oh, my poor little ponies..... Vincent. Please forgive me." "You are a wise ruler, Princess Celestia," Optimus said, "For you to lay your own world on the line to save countless billions, and to oppose Megatron, took great courage. I commend you for your decision, and your bravery. You are indeed, a Just monarch of your world. Wishing to make a stand here and now, instead of risking the lives of those you never met shows that you are indeed selfless, and compassionate. I am honored to have you as my friend." Princess Celestia, hearing these touching words, could feel tears welling up in her eyes. She knew Optimus was right, they had to make a stand here and now. To stop Megatron's rampage through the cosmos. "And if anyone should be asking for forgiveness, it should be me," Optimus stated. "What? Why?" Celestia asked. "It was our presence here, that brought ruin to your kind. Do to my carelessness, the War for Cybertron has now spread to your world. Equestria is peaceful, and it's inhabitants should never have been dragged into our conflict. Our very being here on your world, has caused suffering and destruction. I have brought war to you, and for that, I cannot begin to express how sorry I am. I never intended for this to happen, to anyone. Cybertronian, Human, or Pony." Princess Celestia could hear the guilt, and sorrow in the Prime's voice. She was moved by his words. "Oh Optimus, please, you must not blame yourself. This wasn't your fault. On the contrary, I am rather glad you came to Equestria even if it was by accident. Meeting someone like you has truly been a great joy and honor. You have become one of my dearest friends. Together I know we will prevail, and end this evil that plagues our land." "I agree, your highness. We WILL stop Megatron, and Chrysalis, no matter the cost." As Rainbow Dash galloped at top speed back to Ponyville, the pain in her wings were no longer as intense. Seizing the moment, the pegasus then took to the skies. From the air, Her eyes frantically scanned the streets for any of her friends, or Autobots in the area. Then, she spots Applejack, also running as fast as she could, through the town. Quickly, Rainbow Dash swooped down to greet the cowmare. Applejack, also in turn, spotting the pegasus, began to run in her direction. Soon they reach each other's positions, as Dash lands in front of the cowmare. "Rainbow Dash!" Applejack happily cried out. "Am I glad to see you!" "AJ!" Rainbow Dash called out. "I NEED YOUR HELP!" the two mares shout simultaneously towards each other. "Huh?" Rainbow Dash said with confusion. "You need MY help?" Applejack was also equally concerned and puzzled. "And you need mine? What happened, sugarcube? Ya better start from the beginnin'." "Well, Arcee was helping me practice for the Running of the Leaves, when this creep showed up. And you're not gonna believe me, but he was a DECEPTICON! Some jerk calling himself Dreadwing. He attacked us, and took Arcee prisoner. That's why I need to find the others. I came looking for help, and you're the first one I ran into." Applejack's jaw dropped. She couldn't believe what she heard. "Ok, now you!" Rainbow Dash said. "Alrighty, here goes..... Big Macintosh, Apple Bloom, and I were doin' our usual farm work, when these giant bug monsters attacked. Turns out they're these varmints called Insecticons. A type of Decepticon. Anyways, the Cons tried to smash us, but that's when good ole' Bulkhead came in to save us. We tried to help the big lug, but he used some kinda sleepin' gas to knock us out so we wouldn't get in the way. When I came to, I saw them nasty Cons take him away through some funky lookin' green portal. Big Macintosh and Apple Bloom are still snoozin' right now." Rainbow Dash also was at a loss hearing Applejack's encounter. "Oh no. We gotta do something. Arcee was also dragged through a weird looking green portal too. We have to save them! Come on, last I heard, Smokescreen is the closest Bot. I think he's still at Sugarcube Corner with Pinkie Pie," Rainbow Dash said. "Then there's no time to waste. Let's find em'," Applejack agreed, as they both took off towards the bakery. As they finally reach Sugarcube Corner, Applejack frantically knocks on the door, until Carrot Cake answers. "Mr. Cake!" Applejack addressed the Earth Pony baker, "We gotta talk to Pinkie Pie and Smokescreen. Are they here?" "Sorry Applejack," Mr. Cake replied, "But I saw Pinkie go off with Smokescreen in a hurry. It looked like they were in some kind of rush. Wish I can help you more." "Great, now what?" Rainbow Dash moaned. "Well, thanks anyway Mr. Cake. Sorry to have bothered ya." Applejack politely addressed the baker. "It's alright. Have a nice day," Mr. Cake said as he closes the door. "I know, Let's get to Canterlot. Optimus and Twilight are there!" Applejack said, with a smile on her face. "Yeah, GREAT IDEA!" Rainbow Dash agreed. "There's no time like the present! Let's go!" As they make a mad dash towards the train station, they hear what sounds like an engine roar. From the distance, a motor vehicle sped towards the town, then screeches to a halt right in front of the two ponies. It was Wheeljack. "FINALLY! An Autobot!" Rainbow Dash shouted. They see the door open, as Sweetie Belle exits. The young filly looked horrible. Her mane was all messed up and ruffled, she was covered in dirt, and small cuts and bruises, and her eyes were stained with tears. "Sweetie Belle! What happened? You alright, sugarcube?" Applejack said as she quickly rushed over to the filly, who quickly burst into tears. Wheeljack then opens his driver side door, and his severed arm falls out. He then transforms, with much difficulty due to his injuries into robot mode. "What happened to you two? Did you have a run in with the Cons too?" Rainbow Dash asked in concern. "Cons? So you know already....." Wheeljack stammered, as he limped towards the two ponies. "Oh no, Wheeljack, your arm!" Rainbow Dash said, as Applejack looked on in shock. "What, this? Pfft... I've had worse," Wheeljack bragged. He then sits down on the ground. "But right now we have another problem. It's Rarity... Soundwave, Megatron's psychotic mute lapdog, nabbed her. I came back here to see to it that Belle gets home safe, then I'm finding the other Bots, Bulkhead preferrably, and staging a rescue mission." "They took Rarity??!!!" Rainbow Dash shouted in shock. "What about your injuries?" Applejack asked. "And poor Rarity. We gotta save her!" "I'm a Wrecker, I can handle it," The Bot answered. "Poor Sweetie Belle...." Rainbow Dash said as she looked on in concern. "Don't worry, we'll get her back." Sweetie Belle continued to sob as Applejack held her tightly. "It's ok, Sugarcube, Everything's gonna be alright. We'll save her, just you wait," Applejack attempted to comfort the unicorn filly. "Where's Bulk? I need his help," Wheeljack asked. "Well, we kind of have a big problem...." Rainbow Dash said, as she began to explain the bad news to the Wrecker. "WHAT?!?!?!? You gotta be yanking my chain!" Wheeljack shouted, now being up to speed with what happend to Bulkhead an Arcee. "Those stinkin' Cons ambushed us. They were waiting just for the right time to strike." "So now what?" Rainbow Dash asked. "We find the commander and chief. We find Optimus," Wheeljack answered. "We have to save the others, and Rarity!" Then from another distance but in a different direction, they see a red pickup truck driving towards them. "Hey, is that Ironhide?" Applejack said. Ironhide then transforms into robot mode and runs up to the group. He was panting real hard as he got to them. "Ironhide, what's wrong?" Rainbow Dash asked with concern. "You guys. You won't BELIEVE what happened!" Ironhide began. "The Decepticons are here! Swerve and I were just bringing some Energon crystals to Wheeljack's ship, and we got ambushed by a Stunticon, a type of Decepticon, named Wildrider, and these two twins, Rumble and Frenzy! We tried to fend them off, but they were all over us. Wildrider got me pinned down, but Swerve stopped him. He then threw me away from the battle to sacrifice himself. Rumble shot him from the back and he got down! Then they were taking him to a vortex portal. I tried to save him, but they stopped me. Then they got through portal, and now, Swerve is gone!" The group was shocked to hear from the weapon specialist. "Oh no! That's terrible!" Applejack said. "We gotta help him!" Rainbow Dash said. Ironhide then sees Wheeljack, all banged up, and missing his right arm. "Wheeljack! What happened?!" Ironhide said in shock. "Well, you see Ironhide....." Wheeljack said. The group tells Ironhide about what happened to them. "No...." Ironhide said, shocked from the stories. "They got Bulkhead, Arcee, and even Rarity?!" "Yeah, we better tell Optimus about this," Wheeljack said. Just then, they see what appears to be four figures running along the tracks of the train station. As the four ponies got closer and closer, Applejack and Rainbow Dash can make out that they were Twilight Sparkle, Shining Armor, Princess Cadance, and to their surprise, and disgust, Trixie, heading their way. Behind them, was a green pickup truck and a blue sports car with flame details, following them. "It's TWI! Thank Celestia!" Applejack shouted. "And is that, Kup and Hot Shot?" Ironhide said, as he, Sweetie Belle, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash run up to the unicorn. However, Twilight looked like she had been through Tartarus and back. Her once beautiful dress was now in shreds, and her fur and mane, covered in dirt and sweat. Shining Armor and Cadence also didn't look any better either. Trixie also looked like she had been dragged through the Everfree Forest. Hot Shot and Kup transformed to their robot modes with sad looks on their faces as they walked up to the group. Hot Shot was carrying my unconsious body. The four ponies with them were exhausted and out of breath when they were all greeted by Dash and AJ. "Twilight, what happened to you? And what happened to Vincent?!" Rainbow Dash looked on in concern. With tears in her eyes, Twilight Sparkle threw her forelegs around the pegasus, and embraced her in a hug. "Oh Rainbow Dash, it was horrible! First, the Changelings infiltrated the Gala, and took everypony prisoner. Then something even worse happened. The Decepticons showed up. They're here, IN EQUESTRIA! Megatron himself defeated Princess Celestia, Vincent got hurt from two Decepticons, Skywarp and Thundercracker, and Optimus was taken down by Queen Chrysalis. Princess Luna has also been kidnapped. Shining Armor, Princess Cadence, Trixie, Hot Shot, Kup and I barely made it out of Canterlot. Vincent's still alive, but he's hurt badly. The rest of the dignitaries and guests are being held hostage. Canterlot..... has fallen." "It's true," Hot Shot said. Hearing this shocked the group, as Wheeljack simply gritted his teeth, and clenched his only fist left. "Megatron's gonna pay for this!" the Wrecker shouted. "I need to find the other Bots," Twilight said as she then noticed Wheeljack who was banged up, and missing an arm. "Oh no! What happened?" Twilight said in concern as she observes Wheeljack's injuries. "I'll fill you in on everything," he replied. "But one more thing..." Rainbow Dash added. "What's SHE doing here??!!" Dash pointed a hoof at Trixie. "Easy, Rainbow Dash," Princess Cadence interrupted. "Trixie helped us escape. She's on our side." "Well, I don't trust her," Rainbow Dash replied as she shoots the showmare a dirty look. "I don't blame you," Trixie replied, "Yes, Trixie did indeed do horrible things to you, and this town. It feels awkward for me to be here again. But The Great and Powerful Trixie has no desire to see Equestria fall to the Changelings and those metal space monsters." "We don't need your help," Rainbow Dash stated flately. "Rainbow Dash, I know you don't like this, but we need to put aside our differences," Twilight pleaded. "All of Equestria is in danger, and we need everypony to be united against this evil." "Fine," Dash replied, rolling her eyes in reluctance. "Look girls, now's not the time for us to be arguing with each other," Shining Armor interjected, "We have bigger things to focus on." "He's right," Applejack agreed. "Like how are we gonna save our friends, and stop the Cons and Changelings?" "So what happened to you all?" Twilight asked in concern. "Well, it went like this, sugarcube....." Applejack then fills her in on everyone's stories. After the cowmare finished her explaination, Twilight, Cadance, Shining Armor, Hot Shot, and Kup were dumbfounded and shocked. "Oh no! Rarity! Arcee! Bulkhead! Swerve!" Twilight said. "We have to do something." With that Sweetie Belle continued to cry, while Wheeljack looked at her, with worry. "This is all my fault!" Sweetie Belle stated. "I should NEVER have messed with that Energon Crystal. It would never have opened the portal, and those Decepticons would never have taken Rarity away!" "Sweetie Belle, don't blame yourself. You had no idea this would happen. Nopony holds you responsible for what happened," Twilight tried to soothe the filly's guild. "Still, I brought them here. If anything happens to my sister, it'll be on my hooves," Sweetie Belle cried. "Hey, you also brought me here. Right, Belle? You got to meet me, and we had some of the best times." Wheeljack said. "I never would have met you if you hadn't opened that portal." "Yeah, I guess you're right," Sweetie Belle sniffed. "And you ARE pretty awesome, Uncle Jackie. I'm glad I met you too." "Don't worry about a thing, Belle. Like I said, I made you a promise, and a Wrecker ALWAYS keeps his word. I'll bring Rarity back home safely, and make the Cons regret they ever messed with your sister." Sweetie Belle, then cracks a small smile, and hugs the Wrecker's leg. "Thank you, Uncle Jackie. You're the best Autobot!" "Sure, kid." As the group begins to converse on a plan of action, they then see Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie running towards them. "Fluttershy! Over there! I see them!" Pinkie Pie beamed as she and the timid pegasus then greets the rest of the group. "Pinkie! Flutters!" Rainbow Dash happily shouted. "You two are alright! I was wondering where you were." "We're A-OK Dashie!" Pinkie said as she hugs the blue pegasus. "Pinkie..... can't breathe...." Dash gasped. "Oops, sorry." They then see another large figure heading towards them. It was Smokescreen, carrying a badly injured Bumblebee on his back, in piggyback fashion. "Girls, we need your help. It's Bumblebee. He's hurt, and badly," Fluttershy pleaded to the others. "Oh no!" Princess Cadence gasped as she sees Smokescreen finally reach the others, as Bumblebee mangled form can be seen. "Smokescreen, what happened?" Kup asked the rookie. "Bee took a pretty nasty spill back there. The Cons did a number on him. He needs treatment, and fast!" Smokescreen stated. He then sees Wheeljack, also in bad shape. "Wheeljack! Don't tell me.... The Cons attacked you too huh?" Smokescreen said to the Wrecker. "I'll live," he answered. "I'm more worried about the scout. We gotta do something to help him." "We gotta find Optimus. Once we get Bumblebee the help he needs, I think you, Ironhide, Kup, Hot Shot and I need to head to Canterlot," Smokescreen said. "Yeah, about that, kid......" Wheeljack starts to explain to the rookie. Once again, filling in Pinkie, Smokescreen, and Fluttershy, as Bumblebee also listened in, they were all shocked with disbelief. "You gotta be kidding me! They got Optimus?!" Smokescreen, still in shock, responded. "Yeah, the stinkin' bugs that we chased off in the forest when we first got here helped the Cons take the Capital, and beat the princess," Wheeljack stated. "So now what?" Smokescreen asked. "We get Bumblebee the help he needs," Fluttershy answered. "Hey, Uncle Jackie..." Sweetie Belle said to the Wrecker, "Can't you fix him up? I mean, you're always fixing your spaceship right?" "Totally different, Belle," Wheeljack replied. "Patching up an inanimate vehicle isn't the same as treating a Cybertronian. We're living machines. He needs a doctor, not a mechanic." "Then there's no time to lose," Twilight stated. The group then quickly made their way to the Ponyville Hospital. Outside of Ponyville Hospital, a giant makeshift medical tent had been set up for Bumblebee. About two hours had passed as the doctor ponies began to assess what they could do for the Autobot. Finally a white Earth Pony mare with a medical cap, pink mane, and a red cross cutie mark stepped out from the curtain. "Nurse Redheart," Twilight called to her. "How is he? How's Bumblebee doing?" "Well, we did all that we could. I'm afraid we're just not familiar with Cybertronian physiology," Nurse Redheart replied. "I figured that'd be the case," Wheeljack stated. "You look like you need treatment as well," the nurse said to the Wrecker. "We were able to help Vincent, but, we've run out of meds to heal him completely," she added as I came to the guys. The right of my forehead and my left side of my face had bandages, my left arm and right leg were on casts, and I could only use my right arm to use the crutch. "Hey guys," I greeted. "Vincent!" my friends said in joy that I was alive, as they came up to me. "We're SO happy you're alive!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed and hugged me. "Ow. Careful, I'm still hurt," I said. "Oh, sorry," Pinkie said as she was done hugging. "How are you feeling?" Twilight asked me. "I'm fine. Still hurt, but fine," I told her. "I wish I could say the same for Bumblebee though," I sadly added. "I'm afraid your world's doctors can't do much else for him." Smokescreen said to the yellow pegasus. "The only one who can help him now, is back at home. We need Ratchet." "Who?" Pinkie Pie asked. "Ratchet. He's our team's medic. I sure wished he was here right now. We could REALLY use his help." Smokescreen replied. "Hmm...." Twilight said, while scratching her chin with her hoof, "That just MIGHT be possible!" "How, Twily?" Shining Armor asked. "Well, I've been studying the spell ever since Princess Luna found it. I've been reading the incantation day in and day out." "But isn't the spell book still back in Canterlot?" Trixie asked. "And there's no way we can go back there now." "Not exactly..." Princess Cadence chimed in, as she suddenly pulls out a book. "I have it RIGHT HERE!" "Cadence, YOU'RE THE BEST!" Shining Armor said to his wife, as he picks her up and twirls her around. Cadence giggles, as he puts her back down. "I was able to snag it before I headed to the Gala. Good thing I did." Cadence explained. "Then there's no time to lose. I have to perform it now, or Bumblebee will never make it," Twilight said as she begins to flip through the pages. After a group of volunteer ponies built a giant wagon like stretcher for Bumblebee to lay on, me, Twilight, along with five of the Mane 6, the remaining five Autobots, Trixie, Royal Couple of the Crystal Empire and I stood firm at Ponyville's town square. Big Macintosh and Apple Bloom had since woken up, and were filled in on what happened, along with Scootaloo, where all three of the Cutie Mark Crusaders were reunited and also present at the town square. "Ok, here goes," Twilight stated, as she began to chant the ancient incantation. It was in a language that no one, including me, but the princesses and Twilight could understand. As Twilight continued to chant, her horn then begins to give off a brilliant glow. Then from the tip, it shoots a purple beam forward, and seems to rip open the air in front of her, creating a large swirling purple vortex. "Ya did it, Sugarcube!" Applejack cheered. "Finally, Bumblebee. We're going to get the help you need," Fluttershy said to the injured Bot. Bumblebee weakly responded in his electronic tone. "Shhhh, don't speak. Save your strength," she said to him. Suddenly, the portal began to destabilize. "I.... I can't control it!" Twilight shouted as she struggled to keep it open. "Come on Twilight, if anypony can do this, it's you!" Rainbow Dash encouraged her. "That's right." Smokescreen added, "Do it for your Princess, and do it for Optimus!" "You got this, dude," I said to my alicorn friend. "I can feel it slipping. I won't be able to keep it open for long. I need more power!" Twilight shouted. Right as the portal was about to collapse, suddenly, a pink aura surrounded the portal, and it began to stabilize again. Twilight looks to her right, to see Trixie, using her magic to help. "Trixie?" Twilight looked on at her former rival. "Well, this IS the fate of the entire world after all. Still, I can't have you hogging all of the spotlight." Trixie replied smugly. "Thank you, Trixie. I think." Twilight said to her while thankful, but slightly annoyed by her obvious self boasting. With Trixie's help, the portal finally opens properly. "Praise Celestia," I said in astonishment. "Well, I guess you really did come through for us after all. Guess I owe you an apology," Rainbow Dash said to the show mare. "Alright, this is it. It's time to go through," Twilight said as she took charge. "And we're right here with ya," Applejack said. "Maybe there's some people over there who could help me," I added. "Good idea," Twilight said. "Good Luck, Twily. Come back safely." Shining Armor said, as he and Cadence waved. With that, Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and I stepped into the portal. Following us was Wheeljack, who quickly gave a nod to Sweetie Belle, and the rest of the Crusaders. "Well, here we go, Bee. We're heading home," Smokescreen said, as he wheels Bee's stretcher into the portal. It soon closes, as Shining Armor, Cadence, and Trixie look on. "I believe in you, Twilight," Cadence said, as she looked into the sky with a new hope.
Chapter 1Youtube Video It was a bright, and beautiful morning in Ponyville as today was a very exciting day for Sweetie Belle. For months she had pestered Rarity to allow her to accompany her big sister on one of her gem hunts. After a while, Rarity finally gave in. "Oh thank you, thank you, Rarity, for finally letting me come with you," Sweetie Belle shouted in a squeaky tone, "I'm so excited I could BURST! We're gonna have so much fun!" "Yes, of course, dear..." Rarity mumbled, clearly not as entusiastic as her little sister. "Just make sure you stay close to me, and PLEASE don't cause any trouble." "I promise," the little unicorn filly responded. The two unicorn sisters then quickly prepared their saddle bags with tools, water, and what ever equipment they needed for their little expedition. It wasn't long before they reached the mountain range right outside of Ponyville, where Rarity would usually go to mine her gems. It was a bright and beautiful sunny day. Celestia's sun beamed in the blue sky, as the sisters began their quest to harvest some gems. "Rarity, over here!" Sweetie Belle called to her sister as she dug into the dirt. "I found some sapphires!" "Well, good work, Sweetie Belle. I see you have been rather helpful today," Rarity complimented. They had already filled three saddle bags full of diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and even some jade. "These would look lovely in my new project I'm working on for my dear friend Fleur De Lis," Rarity said. She and the supermodel, Fleur had become rather close friends with the fashionista ever since Rarity befriended the socialite, Fancy Pants in Canterlot. Fleur's birthday was coming up soon, and Rarity wanted to make the best jewel encrusted gown for her friend. She didn't want to make the same mistake as with what happened during Twilight Sparkle's birthday the year prior. "How about these?" Sweetie Belle said as she pointed to a cracked open rock full of quartz. "No, those won't do. I need something..... fancier," Rarity answered. Suddenly, Sweetie Belle's horn began to shine. This was a surprise to her, as Sweetie Belle had never been capable of using magic yet. "Rarity! My horn!" she called out. Rarity gasped, and went to her sister's side, slightly concerned. Sweetie Belle's horn then began to intensify, then suddenly, it shot out a beam towards the side of the mountain, blowing a large hole in it. "WOOOAAAHHHHAAOO!" both sisters cried out. "What just happened? Did I just do that? COOL!" Sweetie Belle beamed, as Rarity ignored the comment. "Sweetie Belle! Are you alright? Are you hurt in any way?" Rarity asked in concern. "I feel...... just fine actually," Sweetie Belle answered. "But I can't WAIT to tell Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo I just used real magic!" "Of course darling," Rarity said, hugging her sister, and sighing in relief that she wasn't hurt. As soon as the dust cleared from the explosion, both sisters then see something that absolutely amazed them. From the hole that Sweetie Belle just blew open with her magical mishap, inside it, were blue gems. Gems they've never seen before. It also seemed like, they were glowing, and even giving off a strong aura. Some of the gems were no larger than the jewels they were mining for, others were as large as the biggest building in Ponyville. "Oh my, how lovely!" Rarity said, completely bedazzled by the sight of their recent findings. "Wow," Sweetie Belle gasped. As the two unicorn sisters approached closer, their horns began to glow again. "Oh goodness, it looks like our unicorn magic is being affected by these crystals. As lovely as they are, I think we should leave these alone. Well, maybe I'll take a small sample. These things are CLEARLY doing something to our horns." Rarity quickly levitated a small pickaxe out of her saddle bag, and with a swift swing, broke off a chunk of the blue glowing crystal about the same size as the fire ruby that Spike gave to her last year. She quickly stuffs it into her saddle bag. "Hmm. If these crystals were what gave me the ability to use magic. It might do it again. Who knows, I think these babies are the key to my cutie mark!" Sweetie Belle thought to herself. She pulled out her own pickaxe and was about to work at another crystal, when Rarity stopped her. "Sweetie Belle, enough. We have all the gems we need today. And leave those alone. If these things can affect unicorn magic, it may be dangerous. I'm taking this sample to Twilight. Maybe she can figure something out, though this thing is MARVELOUSLY lovely!" Rarity said, as she beams at the chunk of blue rock. "Ok..." Sweetie Belle said, disappointed. The two sisters then began their trek back to Ponyville. Youtube Video It was around mid afternoon, when the newly coronated young alicorn princess, Twilight Sparkle heard a knock at the door of her library. She had been writing a full report to Princess Celestia on our recent quest of retrieving her crown from the parallel dimension through the magic mirror, while sipping some hot tea that Spike had just brewed for her. "I'll get it," Spike said as he runs for the door. As he opens the door to see who the visitor was, his eyes immediately turn into hearts, and goes into a lovey-dovey daze. "Hi Rarity," he said, completely lost in her beauty. "Hello there Spikey-Wikey," Rarity said as she walked into the library with Sweetie Belle following her in. "Oh, Hello Rarity. What brings you around today?" Twilight Sparkle said as she places her quill back into the ink bottle on her table. "Well, Sweetie Belle and I found this mysterious blue crystal when were on our gem hunt today," Rarity explained as she opens her saddle bag, and pulls out the glowing object. She places it on the main table. "Hmm," Twilight said, puzzled. "I've never seen anything like this before." Spike licked the crystal, to everyone's disgust. "Spike, that is certainly unbecoming of you," Rarity scolded. "YUCK, I don't know what kind of gem that is, but it tastes TERRIBLE!" Spike said. "Serves you right," Twilight smirked, "I'm not much of a geologist, but this is certainly an interesting crystal." "I'll say," Sweetie Belle chimed in. "It made me use magic." "Huh?" both Spike and Twilight said in unison, with puzzled looks on their faces. "That's another reason why I'm here, Twilight. You see, It seems to affect magic. There's an entire mountain full of these crystals. I'm hoping you can figure out what these are before anypony starts looking for these things. These crystals could be dangerous." Twilight listened with great interest as Rarity finished her explaination. "Really?" Twilight said with a smile on her face. "Very fascinating! It enhances magic? I'm certainly going to enjoy studying this thing." As Twilight moves closer to the gem, it began to glow, as did her horn. "Hmm, I see what you mean. I can feel my power surging. Like my horn has been supercharged," Twilight explained as she begins to back away from it. As soon as she did, her horn stopped glowing. "Oh this is so exciting. Thank you, Rarity, for giving me something new to research!" "Um, yes of course," Rarity said with an awkward smile. "Even when she's awkward, she's still beautiful," Spike muttered, while Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes. "Let me see," Sweetie Belle squeaked as she grabs the blue gem. "Sweetie Belle, stop!" Twilight said, but it was too late. The moment the young filly made contact with the crystal, her horn, and eyes began to glow. Even brighter than before. Suddenly a magical surge came fourth from the young unicorn, knocking over Rarity, Spike, and Twilight. "What's happening to me?!" Sweetie Belle called out, scared out of her mind. "Oh no, Sweetie Belle! Twilight, please, HELP HER!" Rarity screamed. Twilight tried to get close, only to be pushed back by another surge of energy emitting from Sweetie Belle's body. Suddenly a large beam of light shoots out of Sweetie Belle's horn, and through the ceiling of the library. In the gaping hole now in the library, they can see the pillar of light going skyward. Suddenly, the magical beam stopped, and Sweetie Belle reverted back to normal. She immidiately threw the gem on the ground, not wanting to go anywhere near it. "SWEETIE BELLE!" Twilight, Rarity, and Spike called out in unison as they rushed to the filly's side. "Are you alright? Are you hurt?" Rarity asked. "I, I think so. I'm not in any pain," she answered. "Let me take a look," Twilight said as she examines the filly. "I'm no doctor, but you look like you're in perfect health. You just look a bit tired. I think you should get some rest," the purple alicorn said. Just then, another knock at the door caught their attention. Spike goes to answer it, and as he does, they see Applejack, and Rainbow Dash charge in, breathing heavily. "Girls? What's wrong?" Twilight asked. "You alright sugarcube? We heard a loud explosion and came runnin'," Applejack answered. "Yeah, like a chunk of the library looks like it's been blown off. What happened?" Rainbow Dash added. "It's a long story," Twilight answered. "But the most important thing is, that nopony is hurt." "Well, there's another reason why we're here egghead." Rainbow Dash said, "We saw something strange in the sky. Like a purple vortex. Something flew out of it. Something big that looked like it was metal. Then we saw something else, like, I dunno, fall off it. It looked funny, and it was yellow." "And not to mention, BIG!" Applejack explained. "We ain't sure what it was, but the vortex thingy appeared when a light shot out of your library." All eyes from Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, and Spike now stared at Sweetie Belle, who was now, sheepishly backing up. "Umm, that was my fault," Sweetie Belle said. "Anyways, that big yella thing, crashed right next to Fluttershy's house," Applejack explained. "We gotta go see if she's ok!" "Oh NO!" Rarity gasped. "Of all the worst things, this is THE WORST POSSIBLE THING!" "Is Fluttershy ok?" Twilight asked with concern. Spike gulped hard. "We dunno. That's why We need to head over there now!" Applejack answered. "I'm gonna go find Pinkie Pie, the rest of you, meet at Fluttershy's," Rainbow Dash yelled as she zips out the door. "Spike, stay here with Sweetie Belle. We need to check this out." As Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, and now joined by Pinkie Pie, head towards the crash site of the strange object that fell out of the sky, they see that Fluttershy was already waiting for them. "Fluttershy! Darling, are you doing alright?" Rarity asked as she hugs her friend. "Oh, I'm just fine, Rarity. Thank you for asking. But what happened earlier was scary," Fluttershy said. "We're just glad you're A-OK!" Pinkie Pie beamed at the yellow pegasus. "So where's the fallen shooting star? I bet I can make a wish. Everypony knows that if you find a shooting star, your wish comes true. I'm gonna wish for the BIGGEST chocolate Sundae EVER!" "Not now Pinkie," Twilight interrupted. "We need to first, find out what fell out of the sky. The Mane 6 then begin trekking towards the crash site, about 2 miles from Fluttershy's home. It was easy to find due to the billowing smoke emminating from the area. As soon as they reach the site, they already see a huge smoking crater in the ground. "Girls, I'll check it first," Rainbow Dash said, as she flies towards the crater, then enters it. "Whoa," They hear Rainbow say. "What? What did you find?" Twilight asked the blue pegasus. "You guys HAVE to see this!" Rainbow answered. As the rest of the girls converge on the edge of the crater they see..... It was unlike anything they've ever laid eyes on. "What IS that?" Fluttershy asked, while shivering behind Applejack. "Ohh, it looks like a big metal Minotaur!" Pinkie Pie said. "I....... For once..... I don't know," Twilight Sparkle said. She was at a complete loss. "Do you think it's a big alien? Is he here to make friends with us? Invade us? Eat us? I want to throw him a Welcome to Ponyville Party!" Pinkie Pie chimed. "PINKIE PIE!!!!" The rest of the girls shouted. "Sorry," Pinkie said sheepishly. Just then, the big metal creature began to stir. It's eyes began to light up, and it began to twitch. Slowly, it began sitting up, as the rest of the Mane 6 gasped, and backed away. Soon they were face to face, with the large metal being, as it looked at them, with a puzzled look on it's face. The creature seemed to be confused. Then it spoke, or at least it seemed to speak, in several electronic sounding blips and beeps. "Umm.... Welcome to Equestria?" Twilight said to it, with an awkward smile.
Chapter 10It was around late afternoon. Twilight has returned with Optimus from the Canterlot libraries fairly early this day. As Optimus drives up to her treehouse library, the two notice Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, and me waiting for her. Twilight exits Optimus, as he transforms into robot mode. "Oh, hi, Twilight," Fluttershy greeted the alicorn princess. "I see you're back early today. Is everything ok?" "I'm fine, Fluttershy. Optimus and I came back home early today, because, well, Princess Luna found it, the book containing the spell that will return the Autobots home," Twilight responded as she levitates the book out of her saddle bag. "It will still take some time for me to learn it, however." "Oh, well, I'm glad you'll be going home soon, Optimus. And all of the Autobots......... All of you...." Fluttershy replied with a sad look on her face, clearly upset. "It's alright, sugarcube. We know this day would come," Applejack said to the pegasus, trying to comfort her. "I know, but still, I don't want to Bumblebee to leave," Fluttershy, with tears forming, stated. "I know how you feel Fluttershy, believe me, I truly do. I don't want Optimus to leave either. He's become someone I really look up to, like a second mentor next to Princess Celestia. But, he has his responsibilities back on this Planet Earth, to protect the beings who live there from evil," Twilight explained. Prime walks to Fluttershy and kneels on one knee. "Fluttershy," he said to the pegasus, placing his giant finger under her chin, "I am truly grateful, and honored you think so highly of us. And I thank you for your friendship. I clearly see that you and Bumblebee have forged a strong bond with each other. It pains me to see you and our scout to be inevitably separated by worlds, but the friendship you have forged with him, with us, and with me, will always be true." Fluttershy gave a smile, she knew he was right, they didn't belong in Equestria, and asking them to stay while Earth fell to the Decepticons would be a selfish act. She knew it was for the greater good. "Thank you, Optimus," she nodded. "Well, it ain't time to say goodbye yet, sugarcube," Applejack stated. "Twi still needs to master the spell, and that can take some time. So until then, go spend whatever time you can with Bee. I know I'm hanging with that big lug, Bulkhead, as much as I can." The statement Applejack made gave Optimus a worried look. "Somethin' wrong there, big guy?" Applejack asked in concern. "I am greatly worried about the well being of planet Earth, and the humans," Optimus stated. "We have been offworld for far too long. I only hope that Megatron has not conquered it already. The human military can only hold out for so long." "I understand, time is off the essence," Twilight replied. "Well, onto other news," Twilight addressed to us. "As you know, the Grand Galloping Gala is coming up again. Much to Princess Luna's objection, Princess Celestia decided to hold it during the day this year. It's mainly because many dignitaries from other kingdoms are coming this year. Princess Celestia gave two tickets!" "And you know me," I said. "Being lieutenant, I have to attend." "THE GALA?" the rest of the girls replied in unison. "Yes, it will be tomorrow. Who wants to come with me?" Twilight asked. "Yeah, thanks for the offer, but the last time we went to the Gala, it was no fun at all," Pinkie Pie complained. "I think I'll pass this time as well, Twilight," Fluttershy replied. "Sorry, sugarcube, but me too. Not to mention I got a lot of work on the farm this time around," Applejack also responded. "But, the princess, the tickets...." Twilight pleaded. "Hmm, if it is a formal gathering hosted by Princess Celestia, then I will accompany you," Optimus said. "Really, you mean it?" Twilight beamed with a huge smile on her face. It was large enough to make Pinkie jealous. "I will go to this, Gala, with you, my young friend," Optimus answered. Pinkie, Applejack, Fluttershy, and I looked at Optimus, dumbfounded (question marks pop from our heads). Twilight was overjoyed. "YES!...... YES! YES! YES! YES!" Twilight shouted as she skipped around like a school filly. " A Prime, going to a GALA?" I said, completely dumfounded. "Hey Optimus, why would you wanna go to a big boring snorefest like the Gala?" Pinkie Pie asked. "I also thought that Primes don't Party. That's what Smokescreen told me." "I believe a formal gathering such as this one would help the rest of your world understand us Cybertronians. Also, it would be rude of me not to show, especially if Princess Celestia went through the trouble securing the passes for us," Optimus answered. "How about Rainbow Dash and Rarity? Wouldn't they like to go?" Fluttershy asked. "Nah, Dashie's too busy hanging out with Arcee," Pinkie Pie answered. "And Rare's too busy keepin' an eye on Sweetie Belle, makin' sure she ain't being badly influenced by Wheeljack," Applejack explained. "I see," Twilight answered. "Well, I'm going to the library now. It's time I began studying this spell." She then opens the door to the library. "Spike? Spike are you home? Where are you?" she called for her dragon. "Oh, Spike isn't here right now. He's out gem hunting," Fluttershy explained. "Huh? Why would he be out hunting gems at this hour?" Twilight asked. "Well, he's helping Smokescreen gather the gems he needs to pay off the school," Fluttershy answered. "Pay off the school? What happened?" Twilight asked with a puzzled look on her face. "It's a long story, sugarcube....." Applejack stated. "Speaking of gathering resources, I will be helping the other Autobots gather and mine for some Energon. I bid you all a farewell, for now," Optimus said as he transforms into this truck mode, and then drives off in the distance. The mountain ranges..... Smokescreen and Spike were looking for the gems they needed to pay for the school. "Hey Smokescreen!" Spike called out the the Autobot. "There's some more over here!" Spike had dug up a good number of gemstones. From rubies, to sapphires, to diamonds. "Hey, thanks a bunch, Spike. You're really saving my tailpipe, today," Smokescreen said to the dragon. "No problem, beats sitting home all day with nothing to do. Twilight hasn't been around lately, and besides, I never leave a friend hanging," Spike responded. "Isn't Rarity the expert at this? How come you didn't ask her to help?" Smokescreen asked. "She's kinda busy today. Yeah, I wish she was here too," Spike responded, as he gave a sigh, and his cheeks turned red. "What about these?" Smokescreen asked as he picked up a number of multi colored jewels. "Those will do nicely," Spike said, as he places the jewels Smokescreen handed to him in his bag. "I think a few more, and we'll be set. You'll have enough to pay back the school," Spike stated. "This, is probably the most embarrassing thing to happen to me," Smokescreen said as a blip went off on his sensor. "Hey, I think there's some Energon here, too. I'm getting a reading. Gonna go check it out real quick. Be right back." With that, Smokescreen walks off towards the source of the blip. Spike simply sighed, as he continued to think about Rarity. Not only did he want to help Smokescreen pay back the damages he did, but also find the perfect jewel for the unicorn he loved so much. He then sees something shimmering in the ground. As Spike got closer, he sees that it's diamond. He begins to dig. As he continues to paw at the ground, he unearths more of it. He then realizes, this diamond was fairly large. It was about double the size of his body. "JACKPOT!" Spike shouted as he tries to pull it out of the ground. "This thing really looks tasty! But no, I can't eat it. It's gonna be the perfect gift for Rarity." Using all of his might, he finally gets it out of the hole. He then looks at it, in all of it's majesty, and beauty. It was magnificent, and delicate looking, just like Rarity. Spike was excited, as he couldn't wait to give it to her. He's going to need Smokescreen's help in order to bring it back to Ponyville. As Spike began to roll the diamond on the ground, he then sees a large shadow coming up from behind him. "Hey Smokescreen," Spike began to say. "Did you find the Energon?" "What are you babbling about, shrimp?" a voice, not Smokescreen's, answered. Spike immediately froze in place. It wasn't the Autobot, but someone else he encountered earlier on, someone he hoped never to see again. Someone I've faced before. Spike slowly turned around, to see a familiar teenage red dragon standing behind him. It's Garble! "Well, well, if it isn't the pony loving twerp. Long time no see, Spike!" he taunted. "I still haven't paid you back for that whole incident with the phoenixes." "Oh NO!" Spike yelled in terror. "And I think I'll start, by taking that precious, and delicious looking diamond of yours!" Garble said as he began to move towards Spike. "NO! You can't!" Spike defiantly yelled, trying to protect the diamond. "Ha, is that for your pony girlfriend? Don't make me laugh," Garble said as he grabs Spike and throws him aside. "NOOOOO!" Spike yelled. But it was too late. He then sees Garble, chomp into the diamond, and with four or five bites, it was gone. Spike just sat there, with tears in his eyes. "Ok, fine, you ate the diamond. You got me back. Now please, just, leave me alone," Spike sadly stated. "Oh no, no, no...." Garble replied. "I'm not done with you yet." "Wha? What do you mean?" Spike, now terrified, began to back up. "I'm still gonna make you pay for humiliating me in front of my boys last time. So now, I'm gonna turn you into lunchmeat!" Garble threatened as he hissed and extended his claws. Suddenly, an even larger figure stood behind Garble, and grabbed him by the tail, and lifted him up. "BRING IT!" Smokescreen angrily stated, while holding the teenage dragon by the tail upside down. "HUH??!! WHAT THE??!!" Garble yelled in shock. "Who's the tough guy now, you Predacon scum?" Smokescreen said as he shook him. "WHAT ARE YOU? What's with this metal freak?!?" Garble yelled. "What's the matter, can't fight someone bigger than you?" It was Smokescreen's turn to taunt the dragon. Garble breathes a stream of fire into Smokescreen's face, but it seemed to have little effect. "You just made your second big mistake! Your first was messing with my little buddy there!" Smokescreen said in a furious tone. "Smokescreen, wait!" Spike yelled to the Autobot. "Please, I know he's a jerk, but, just don't hurt him. You're already in trouble as it is." "Are you kidding?" Smokescreen said in surprise. "This guy just tried to frag you, and you're telling me to let him go?" "Please, I just don't want anyone getting hurt. And I don't want to see you get into any more trouble. Optimus wouldn't approve of this," Spike explained. Smokescreen looked at Spike, then at Garble, who was terrified. Seeing the fear in the dragon punk's eyes made Smokescreen realize what he was doing. "You're right kid. Optimus wouldn't do this. And this isn't how Autobots should act." Smokescreen then drops Garble on the ground, as he lands on his head hard. "OWWW!" Garble complained. "Get lost, punk! If I ever catch you messing with any of my friends again, you're scrap!" Smokescreen threatened. He then gets back up, and flaps his wings to fly away. "You just made a big mistake, you metal freak. I'll be back, and I'll make you pay. Don't think you're off my hit list either Spike!" he yelled as he flew away. "Hey, Spike, you ok?" Smokescreen asked the clearly shaken dragon. "I'll be fine. Thanks, Smokescreen, for bailing me out," the dragon answered. "Hey, no problem-o, little guy," the Autobot replied to the little dragon. The duo then began to make their way back to Ponyville. "Man, I was about ready to turn that punk inside out. But, yeah I know, what you said was the right thing. Still, I HATE bullies!" Smokescreen stated as he and Spike began to make their way back to Ponyville. After making it back to Ponyville, Spike and Smokescreen had delivered the gems to Miss Cheerilee. She would deliver the message to the Mayor, telling her that his debt to the school had been fully repaid. Smokescreen was off the hook. Later, feeling good about being out of debt, he took a leisurely stroll through Ponyville, towards Sugarcube Corner, to meet up with his favorite Pink Pony. As he walked down the street, he then suddenly feels someone hitting him from behind. It was hard enough to knock him down. "Huh? Who did that?" Smokescreen shouted, as he gets back up. "Told you this wasn't over!" Garble yelled. This time, he had a number of other teenage dragons with him. "You!" Smokescreen yelled. "I thought I told you to get lost!" Smokescreen then raises his fists. "I wouldn't try that if I were you!" Garble said as he points to one of his dragon buddies, holding Spike, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie hostage. They were tied up in rope, and gagged with a white cloth over their mouths! They were muffling to Smokescreen for help! "Let them go!" Smokescreen yelled. "You're in no position to make demands, freak," Garble said. "I'm gonna run this town, and make the ponies service us! If you know what's good for your little friends, you'll back off." "No way," Smokescreen stated. He then lunges towards the dragons. He punches the one holding Pinkie Pie, then catches her before she hits the ground. He then quickly undoes the ropes, and pulls the cloth off of her mouth. "Pinkie, you alright?" he asked. "I'm A-ok, Smokescreen!" She responded. "But you have to save Fluttershy and Spike from those dragon meanies. I'm gonna go get Applejack, Dashie, Vincent, and Twilight. They'll help us!" "Go, quickly!" Smokescreen instructed. "Aye-eye!" Pinkie saluted as she ran off towards the library. "Hang on Flutters, Spike, I'll get you guys out of there," Smokescreen reassured them. "You can't stop us, this town is ours. Get 'em, boys!" Garble yelled, as the dragons fly towards the Autobot. Smokescreen swung his fists, knocking down two of the dragons, but three more swooped down, and began dive bombing him. Garble held on to both Fluttershy and Spike as they struggled. Soon the dragons began to slam into Smokescreen, as they claw, shoot fire, and ram him. Smokescreen did his best to hold off the onslaught, as he then turns his hands into his blasters. He began to shoot at the flying dragons wildly. "Too slow!" One of the dragons taunted, as he swoops down, and bites into Smokescreen's neck. "Get..... OFF!" Smokescreen yelled as he pries the dragon off of him. Smokescreen realized he was in over his head, there were too many of them. The dragons continued to swoop at him, while some of the others began to terrorize the ponies around town. Garble then flies up to him and kicks him in the face, knocking the Autobot down. "Now watch as I turn your big bodyguard into metal shavings!" Garble said to Spike and Fluttershy, still tied up as he has them clenched in his fists. The dragon punks had Smokescreen's limbs pinned on the ground, as Garble walked up to him. "Say goodnight!" Garble taunted as he raised his claw. Then, suddenly what looked like a wrecking ball slams Garble in the face, sending him flying into a house, leaving a huge hole in it. Fluttershy and Spike where sent flying in the air, when another large figure caught them before they hit the ground. Bulkhead, had sent Garble flying, while Bumblebee had safely caught Fluttershy and Spike before any harm could come to them. The other dragons looked on in astonishment. Garble climbs out of the hole from the side of the house, and looks on. "What???? You mean, there's more of the metal monsters?!?!" Garble yelled in surprise. "Wanna know something? See, when you mess with one member of Team Prime, guess what? Now you got all of us to deal with. Nobody, and I mean NOBODY, messes with one of our friends and gets away with it," Bulkhead threatened as he slammed his wrecking balls together. Bumblebee unties Fluttershy and Spike. Wheeljack stood next to Bulkhead, as well as Hot Shot and Swerve, ready to fight. "Thank you, Bumblebee. You saved us from those horrible dragons." Fluttershy said as she hugs the side of his face. "WHAT'S A DRAGON?" Bulkhead, Wheeljack, Swerve, and Hot Shot asked in unison. Bumblebee gave his electronic response. "They look like Predacons, Bee. But Optimus says they aren't," Bulkhead replied. Bumblebee then turns his attention to Spike, and Fluttershy, and speaks in his blips and bleeps. Fluttershy understandingly nods to him. "He says we need to clear out," Fluttershy translated to Spike as they make a break for it. "Looks like there's gonna be some fun after all," Wheeljack stated as he draws his swords and activates his faceplate. Swerve then turns his right hand into a spinning saw blade weapon, and Hot Shot activates his arm blasters and battle goggles. "What are you morons standing around for? GET THEM!" Garble shouted as he and the rest of the dragons charge at the Bots. "Finally, SOME ACTION! You stinkin' Preds picked the wrong Bot to mess with," Wheeljack yelled as he and the rest of the bots also charge. What happened next was absolute mayhem in Ponyville, as the Bots and Dragons began their massive brawl in the town. Bumblebee punched out a number of dragons, as they slammed into buildings, causing them to crumble. Smokescreen and Hot Shot shoot at a few of them, causing them to also crash. Some of his stray blasts got too close to the ponies, as they tried to flee for their lives. Bulkhead, Swerve, and Wheeljack continued to pummel any dragon that got in their way, destroying carts, and wagons in the chaos. Garble and Smokescreen faced each other, as the dragon clawed at his armor. Smokescreen grabs him, and winds his fist up, then delivers a massive punch to the dragon's face, sending him crashing into Sugarcube corner, destroying the roof of the building. The mayhem continued on, as the Bots and Dragons tore up the section of Ponyville. Ponies continued to flee the area, and structures around them were being destroyed by the brawl. The dragons then regroup around Garble. Right when he was about to order another charge at the Autobots, several laser shots and blasts came out of nowhere right between the bots and dragons. From the distance, the see the source. It was Arcee, with Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Twilight, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, me, Ironhide, Kup, and Optimus Prime standing behind her. Prime was firing his arms blasters, Kup and Ironhide were blasting from their arm mounted cannons. I was using my wand, blasting. Arcee had a very angry look on her face. "How many of these metal freaks are there?!?" Garble yelled in frustration. "Have all of you BLOWN YOUR SERVOS?!" Arcee scolded the rest of the Bots. "Look at what you've done!" Ironhide added. (Hot shot deactivates his goggles) The rest of the Autobots then realized what had happened. The ensuing fight to save their friends, ended up with the result half the town being destroyed. "Oooohh, scrap...." Bulkhead muttered when he finally saw the gravity of the situation. "Uhhhh.... oops..." Swerve stammered. "Ha, now's our chance!" Garble tried to lunge at Bulkhead. But I used my my wand to lunge, erected a magic field in front of me, caught him in mid air, and crashed us to the ground we were tumbling away from each other. "Hello, Garble," I said, getting back up. "Well, if it itsn't the lieutenant of the Royal Guard. 'Vincent,' is it?" the dragon mocked as he gets up as well. "You're still this soft, fighting for your pathetic pony friends? For YOUR town?" "This is where I stand," I said as I stow away my wand into my sheath. The Mane 6 wanted to help, as do the Autobots but Prime. "He's mine," I told them. Garble and I glared at each other. And then, we clash each other. We were evading and blocking each other's attacks. My friends and the bots watch this rivalry between me and the dragon gang leader. Garble whacks me in the face with his tail, but then I deliver a roundhouse kick to HIS face. Then Garble and I clenched our fists. I were were both grunting as we kept pushing our fists towards each other. Garble then grins, and tosses me to the side, flipping me. He tries to punch me on the ground, but I evade, and trip him by the leg, and SWEEP THE LEG! I kick him in the air. Garble hits the ground and recovers. He was REALLY angry, so he began slashing his claws as I was dodging. Until, then, he grabs me offguard, throws me over onto the ground. But I trip him again, an this time, grabbed him by the tail, and spun him round and round. "RRAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!!!" I yelled as I kept spinning him. Then, I threw him off. He hits the ground hard, skidding on his back, nearly hitting Sugarcube Corner. Garble then gains his composure, and tried to lunge at me, when suddenly, he was surrounded by a golden aura. It suspended him in mid air. "Hey, what gives!?" he yelled as the source of the aura was revealed. Princess Celestia had decended from the sky, using her magic to hold him. Optimus seeing the destruction done to the town by his own Autobots, simply shook his head, in dismay. "You! Garble, I believe that's your name," Princess Celestia addressed the Dragon. "I want you out of this town, and don't ever return! By my decree, you and your dragon gang are here by banished from Ponyville!" "Who's gonna make me?" Garble said in defiance. Suddenly, Optimus walked up to the dragon. "You will vacate the premises as commanded by the princess," Optimus sternly said. "Failure to obey such proceedings, will result, in serious REPERCUSSIONS!" Optimus turns his hand into his blade and points it at Garble's face. Garble gulps hard. "Y..Y..YES, SIR!" he fearfully responded. Princess Celestia lets him go. "Come on, guys. This isn't worth it. Let's get out of here," Garble said as he and all of the teenage dragons began to retreat, and fly away towards the horizon. "And stay gone, ya lousy varmints!" Applejack yelled. "This isn't over, is it, Garble?" one of the dragons asked. "No, it isn't," Garble replied. "We'll be back one day....." So the dragons were gone. For now, at least. The Autobots, especially Smokescreen, then sheepishly look at Princess Celestia, who had a rather stern look on her face. "I know what you're about to say, your majesty," Smokescreen started. "And before you say anything, I just want to let you know. This was all my fault. The others were only trying to help me. Please don't blame them." "Are you all out of your minds?!" Arcee yelled at the others. "Our job is to protect others, not wreck the place in some idiotic street fight! I swear, Smokescreen, you just CAN'T stay out of trouble." "Arcee, please," Princess Celestia addressed the female Autobot, "let me speak for the moment." "Sorry, your highness," Arcee backed down. "Spike explained everything to me in a letter he sent. I understand that you technically didn't start this conflict. I also know that you and the others were trying to protect my subjects from harm. Your hearts, or rather, spaks, I should say, were in the right place. However, what all of you did, was extremely reckless." The Autobots simply stared at the ground the entire time, embarressed by their actions. Wheeljack, however, simply had his arms crossed, and looked at the princess as she spoke. "We're guests on this world. The princess allowed us to stay here with her people. And this is how you repay her?" Arcee seethed at the others. The Mane 6, Spike, and I simply looked at the Autobots sadly while they were being reprimended. "Princess Celestia, I just want to let you know, that, I'm really sorry for all of this. If you need to kick anyone out of town, it should be me," Smokescreen said, kneeling in front of the Princess. "I say maybe it should," Arcee seethed again. "Arcee," Ironhide reached his hand out as Arcee backed down again. "Oh no, I won't banish any of you from the town. Like I said, I know all of you meant well. So for repayment, Optimus and I have come to an agreement," Celestia explained. "An agreement?" Bulkhead asked. "Indeed, Bulkhead," Optimus answered. "You will all help with the reconstruction of Ponyville. Since it was our fault, we must be the ones doing the repairs." "Well, you're in luck, Princess." Bulkhead stated. "Before I became a warrior, I used to work in construction. This is second nature to me." "Yer full of surprises, Bulk!" Applejack said to the bot. "Ohh, I love surprises!" Pinkie Pie chimed in. "After you have reconstructed the town, you will all remain in vehicular form, as punishment for the rest of the day," Optimus told his team. "Y...yes, Optimus. I understand," Smokescreen replied. "Hold on a sec. Last I recall, I'm not exactly a part of your little club, Prime," Wheeljack said. "I'll help you guys rebuild the town, but I ain't staying in V-Mode for the rest of the day. I still need to work on the Jackhammer." "Wheeljack, while you are on this world, it is best you follow my orders," Optimus said. "Yeah, whatever," Wheeljack scoffed. "Such a barbarian," Rarity muttered under her breath. "I'm glad you're all taking responsibily for this. I wouldn't have expected any less," Princess Celestia said, satisfied. "I want to let you all know, I still consider you my friends. I'm a little disappointed in your actions, but I know you all mean well." "Remember, all of you," Optimus stated to the others. "Upon this world, much like on Earth, we Autobots are Titans. Our power and abilities must be used with great care, and responsibly. Endangering others, be they Autobots, pinies, or humans, will NOT be tolerated." "YES SIR!" the rest of Team Prime respond. "Now then, let us begin with the reconstruction," Optimus said as Celestia and Twilight look at the Autobot leader. Twilight's felt an even greater admiration for Optimus. Little do any of them know, Soundwave was watching the entire time. He then transforms into his drone form and flies off. "Lord Megatron," Dreadwing reported. "Soundwave has returned." "Excellent," Megatron replied. They then see Soundwave walk into the bridge. Right as Soundwave entered he began to plug his tentacles into the computer console. Numerous images and videos from the day's events in Ponyville began appearing on the screen, as Megatron and the Decepticons looked on. "Ah, so these Autobots do have a weakness after all. They won't risk any harm to befall the ponies," A familiar female voice said from behind Megatron. "I would prefer that you not show unannounced....... Chrysalis," Megatron seethed. "Please, is that any way to treat your friend?" Chrysalis replied, as she walked up to the Decepticon leader. "Uhhggg. Those, bugs are back," Knockout muttered under his breath to a nearby Vehicon. "We are not FRIENDS, organic!" Megatron said in disgust. "You are merely my means of leaving this wretched planet." "Well, no matter. It looks like we can exploit this flaw which Optimus suffers from. His compassion for Celestia and her subjects, will be his downfall," Chrysalis cackled. "FOOL! Do you not realize I already have this information?! I've known Optimus for eons, of course we'll exploit this!" Megatron angrily answered. "I don't need YOU to explain that to me! Just be prepared to hold up your end of the bargain, and transport us back to Earth." "Well, I too have a plan of action," Chrysalis replied. "You see, Princess Celestia will be having her annual ball, known as the Grand Galloping Gala. My spies have already shown that the capitol of Canterlot will be protected by a powerful force field created by her most elite unicorn guard. I will infiltrate the Gala, and bring the shield down. Then you and your forces can invade." "I believe she is correct, my lord," Knockout stated. "There's a powerful energy field coming form their capital. Our weapons are currently still weakened from the crash." "So be it. Bring the force field down, and we will find this spell to return us home. But not before we gather the energon at the mountain," Megatron ordered. "Yes, my lord," Dreadwing answered. "Be ready to do your part, insect." "Of course, Mister Dreadwing," Chrysalis teased. Dreadwing simply grunted. "I also have some good news. The engines are fully repaired. We should achieve flight in a matter of hours." Knockout reported. "Ah, finally, some good news. Perhaps you're not such a failure after all, Knockout," Megatron said to the medic. "Dreadwing, prepare the troops."
