Transformers: Armada
“Remorse” – Episode 40
Written by Terry Klassen and Ward Perry
Transcription by Brandon Williams

–
Narrator: The struggle between good and evil rages on. The Decepticons are now in possession of the most powerful Mini-Cons in the galaxy. The Earth’s only chance for a peaceful cosmos is for Optimus Prime and the Autobots to destroy their enemy. Now, get ready for a new battle.

[Commercial]

[Recap]

Rad (VO): When the Decepticons aimed the Hydra Cannon at the Earth and unleashed the powerful blast, I thought it was over for life on our planet.

Kids: Whhhooooaaa….

Autobots: Hhhhh….

Rad (VO): But there was one factor they didn’t count on…

Hot Shot: Awww!

Rad (VO): …Optimus Prime. Rather than watch the meaningless destruction of innocent lives, he sacrificed himself instead. Now the Autobots are left without a leader. And saddest of all, I’ve lost a friend.

[Transition]

Cyclonus: Ha, ha, hahaha! Optimus Prime is history!

Demolishor: We owe it all to you, Megatron!

Megatron: It is all over. Optimus Prime will never bother us again.

Starscream: Errr….

Thrust: Congratulations, Megatron! Your plan was a success. …Megatron? Uh, Megatron?

Megatron: Ah… Yes, it’s a great day for us. The Decepticons have won the final battle. We have defeated the Autobots! We will return to Cybertron and rule over the entire universe!

Decepticons: Yessir!

Fred: (Crying) I-is there anyway — we can fix Optimus?

Red Alert: I’m sorry. It can’t be done. Optimus’ body released its spark when it blocked the Hydra Cannon’s blast. And without it, there’s no way we can bring him back. I wish there was some way we could, but we’re just gonna have to pull ourselves together and carry on without him.

Carlos: Yeah, but how?

Rad: Optimus… He knew that he would never survive the blast from the Hydra Cannon. I know he sacrificed himself for us and everyone else on planet Earth, but I know I’m not the only one who feels lost without him. (VO) No one else on the planet ever knew of the threat that was so close to ending life on the Earth as we know it. Most people were just happy that the strange phenomenon in the sky had passed so they could go back to their old lives. My friends and I knew different. We would never forget what Optimus did for us. He’s only been gone a week, but his absence is already taking a heavy toll on everyone. The Autobots try to pretend it’s business as usual, but it’s obvious that the strain of losing their leader is affecting them all.

Hoist: Oh, man!

Red Alert: Try and be more careful, Smokescreen!

Hoist: I’m trying, Red Alert, but how can I when somebody keeps messing with my tools all the time! So back off, will ya?

Red Alert: Well I think maybe you’ve cross-wired your circuits again.

Hoist: And just how would you know? You don’t know the first thing about installing a matrix circuit.

Red Alert: Erggh.

Scavenger: Sideswipe, take over for me here.

Sideswipe: Uh, yessir!

Blurr: Good idea. Those two could use a break anyway.

Blurr & Sideswipe: Huh?

Hot Shot: Why are we wasting our time building the spaceship? The Decepticons are gone. They’re a thousand light years away now, guys. C’mon!

Hoist: Yeah! He’s right!

Hot Shot: Forget this. I’m outta here.

Rad (VO): Unfortunately, it looked like Hot Shot was taking the demise of Optimus the hardest.

Sideswipe: Bro, wait!

Scavenger: Sideswipe!

Sideswipe: Hmm? Ergh.

Hot Shot: Jetfire! Hey, where ya hidin’, Jetfire?

Rad: Hey, Hot Shot…

Hot Shot: Have ya seen Jetfire?

Rad: Oh, uh, Jetfire said he was going to check out the Decepticons’ moonbase again.

Hot Shot: Man!

Rad: Whoa!

Alexis: Something is really bothering him.

Hot Shot: C’mon…

[Flashback]

Optimus: Hot Shot, stay here. Jetfire knows what to do.

Hot Shot: This is all your fault!

Optimus: Huh?

Hot Shot: You heard me. You let Starscream into our base. He saw the weapons we had and he stole them right from under us. That’s how the Star Saber and the Skyboom shield fell into the hands of Megatron. And do you know why? Because… you had to go and let Starscream join the Autobots, didn’t ya?!

[End Flashback]

Hot Shot: Ergh! Hhh! Why did you do it, Optimus?! Oh man… I yelled at him. I never had the right to question Optimus’ leadership. Never! He was our commander.

Carlos: Wow, poor guy.

Rad: Yeah, I just hope he’ll be all right. Huh? It’s Jetfire!

Hot Shot: Hm?

Jetfire: Transform!

Hot Shot: Jetfire…

Jetfire: Huh?

Hot Shot: C’mon, let’s go. I want you to take me into space right now.

Jetfire: What?

Hot Shot: We’re going after those Decepticons. I’m gonna make them pay for what they did. Because I’m gonna get revenge for Optimus.

Jetfire: You need to calm down.

Hot Shot: You gotta let me do it. I’ve got to!

Alexis: What are you saying?

Rad: Hot Shot!

Jetfire: There’s nothing left of the moonbase. My guess is that the Decepticons headed towards Cybertron hours ago.

Alexis: Planet Cybertron?

Jetfire: I understand why you have to go after them, Hot Shot. But without a proper ship, there’s no way we can catch them.

Hot Shot: I’ve heard enough.

Jetfire: Hu– what’s that supposed to me?

Hot Shot: You heard what I said. Listen, I know it’s your job as deputy commander of the Autobots to make the decisions around here. But… but you can’t do it.

Jetfire: You’re wrong. Right now we have to focus on the spaceship, not revenge.

Sideswipe: He’s right, brother. We’re gonna need the ship finished if we’re gonna catch them.

Hot Shot: Hey! Quiet!

Sideswipe: Hhh, bro?

Blurr: Hot Shot!

Hot Shot: You too! Back off! Huh? What do you want? Hey, do you think you’re doing?

Scavenger: Come with me.

Hot Shot: Aahh!

Carlos: What’s going on?

Fred: He’s done for.

Hot Shot: Hey, let me go, you big lug!

Scavenger: Quiet.

Hot Shot: Where we going, anyway?

Scavenger: Be quiet!

Hot Shot: I said, let go of me! Aah!

Rad: I don’t like the look of this.

Alexis: Rad, the team is falling apart.

Billy: And I wish Optimus was still around.

Fred: Me too.

Rad: C’mon! The Autobots will work it out, you guys! (VO) Although, if ever there was a time that we needed Optimus, it’s right now.

Hot Shot: Hey! What’s up?!

Alexis: Oh… Got ’em!

Rad: Where?

Alexis: On a highway. But it’s been abandoned for years.

Hot Shot: Hey, chill out!

Scavenger: Get up and fight me.

Hot Shot: What’s up, Scavenger? We’re friends.

Scavenger: We are not. You are no friend of mine. Now get up. What’s the matter? I thought you were angry! Well let’s see you prove it to me.

Hot Shot: Hey! Take it easy, would ya?

Carlos: Holy, Scavenger’s really laying into him.

Alexis: Isn’t there something we can do?

Hot Shot: Why are you doing this? We’re on the same side! Ease up!

Scavenger: You want me to ease up, well let’s see how tough you really are then! What do you think Optimus would do? Now show me!

Hot Shot: I know… he wouldn’t be pushed around by you! He would fight!

Scavenger: Hrrghh!

Hot Shot: All right, I’ll show you what I can do, Scavenger!

Scavenger: Here, try this! You brought this on yourself!

Alexis: Hhh! Stop it!

Carlos: Oh no! It looks like Scavenger’s gonna squish Hot Shot!

Alexis: No! We have to put a stop to this!

Jetfire: We can’t. This is Hot Shot’s last chance to prove himself to all of us.

Hot Shot: No! You wouldn’t! Quick, Jolt!

Scavenger: You won’t be so lucky next time.

Hot Shot: What’s wrong? What have I done?

Scavenger: You don’t have a clue, do you? Think about it a second! I don’t have time for this!

Hot Shot: Oh yeah?

Scavenger: If you don’t know your place in the Autobots by now, I can’t help you!

[Commercial]

Alexis: This is definitely not the time for friends to be fighting amongst eachother. Please, Jetfire, make them stop!

Jetfire: No, not yet.

Alexis: Why not?!

Scavenger: Do you have any idea why I left the Decepticons and came over to the Autobots?

Hot Shot: Better money?

Scavenger: I joined because of you! Aaah!

Hot Shot: Liar! I don’t believe you, Scavenger!

Scavenger: Remember what Sideways did to you. He deceived you and sent you into that trap on the moon.

Hot Shot: I was crazy to go off on my own. But I had to.

Scavenger: Yes, that complete lack of fear has served you well, Hot Shot.

Hot Shot: Hey, what are you talking about?

Scavenger: There was no way you could have known that Sideways was still working with the Decepticons, yet you still went into battle. I admired that. Even though Optimus disagreed with your strategy, he would have done the same… if he was in your position. Yet you had the nerve to question him when he took Starscream on our side, even though he had no other choice at the time. You were way out of line.

Hot Shot: So what?

Scavenger: He was our leader.

Hot Shot: Yeah, I understand. I should never had said that. But I tried to tell him from the start that Starscream would double-cross us, Scavenger! And he did, didn’t he?

Scavenger: Yes he did. But Optimus Prime made a decision and he stuck to it! There’s no future for any of us if we get caught in a dirty fight just for revenge!

Hot Shot: What do I do? I can’t control these feelings inside of me.

Rad: This is terrible. Hot Shot is blaming himself for everything.

Carlos: Even what happened to Optimus?

Alexis: That’s the reason why Hot Shot’s been so upset lately. He thinks that he’s let everybody down. Jetfire, you gotta end this now.

Jetfire: Scavenger knows what he’s doing.

Sideswipe: I just wish he would go easy on my bro.

Hot Shot: You don’t understand any of this! My mission is to get even with the Decepticons!

Scavenger: Listen, it’s a mistake to take matters into your own hands. You understand? You’ll become an outcast!

Hot Shot: Transform!

Carlos: Whoa, Hot Shot has taken off!

Alexis: Hey, look!

Rad: Where’d everybody go?

Hot Shot: Optimus, I wish you were here. You’d know what to do. I don’t even where I’m going. Ah! Blurr! What are you doing here?

Blurr: You’re the one who started this fight and I’m gonna end it!

Hot Shot: Go away. Leave me alone! Go, Jolt! Go!

Blurr: Hot Shot! Come back!

Sideswipe: My brother and I are close. Let me deal with this my own way. I know what to do.

Rad: What’s going on?!

Alexis: Hot Shot just needs a little time to think things through. Why can’t you guys just give him a break. Please?

Red Alert: Sorry, it has to be done this way now.

Alexis: But it’s just not right!

Red Alert: Mmmn… You’ll just have to trust us.

Sideswipe: Sorry, bro, but I gotta do something about your bad attitude. Here goes nothing. Transform!

Hot Shot: Sideswipe!

Sideswipe: I’ll shoot if I have to.

Hot Shot: Don’t be ridiculous! We’re on the same side.

Sideswipe: You keep saying that you want revenge for what the Decepticons did to Optimus Prime. But as usual, you’ve gone off on your own without even considering how the rest of us feel about it.

Hot Shot: I don’t need permission from you to do anything!

Sideswipe: But bro!

Hot Shot: Outta my way! What is this?! What do you guys want? Transform! Please. Leave. Stay back! Gotta help me, Optimus.

Optimus (hallucination): Don’t give up on your friends, Hot Shot. They’re all you’ve got.

Hot Shot: Jolt! Hey, get back here! Jolt, how could you?

Optimus (hallucination): Hot Shot… You must trust the Mini-Cons the way I did.

Hot Shot: Huh?!

Megatron (flashback): Ha, ha, ha! You’re too soft to fight if the Mini-Cons are in the way.

Hot Shot: Yes, it’s coming back to me.

Optimus (hallucination): The reason we got into this battle with the Decepticons isn’t to destroy them, our goal has always been to see our friends the Mini-Cons live a free life.

Hot Shot (thinking): That’s right. That’s what this is all about. Of course. (Out loud) I can’t believe the way I’ve been acting, you guys. I didn’t realize it, but I’ve been fighting with you all like you’re my enemies. I’m so sorry. I’ve been going about this whole thing wrong. I need your help, guys. All of you. I can’t do this on my own.

Rad: Hot Shot!

Hot Shot: You are my friends. I don’t wanna fight with you. Any of you. I understand now. I guess I didn’t realize how big an influence Optimus had on me. This has been a really big adjustment for me, but if you’ll let me, I’d like to join the Autobots again… As, well, part of the team. I’m ready now. Let’s free the Mini-Cons like Optimus wanted us to, okay?

Blurr: Finally you understand.

Jetfire: This has been tough on all of us, Hot Shot.

Hot Shot: Huh?

Jetfire: I think this has been the toughest time the Autobots have ever gone through.

Hoist: Guys, you know what, this whole thing brought us closer. I know I sure feel better.

Red Alert: Well, at least we’re still on the same wavelength again.

Jetfire: So, are we all in agreement about carrying out this mission? It’s not gonna be easy.

Hot Shot: Yeah, we are. Right?

Autobots: Right!

Hot Shot: Listen, if it’s all right with you guys, I’d like to forget about today, okay? Y’know, I just wasn’t thinking straight, that’s all. Hmm?

Jetfire: Forget it. We’re all starting with a clean slate.

Optimus (hallucination): In times of crisis, you can accomplish a lot more with your friends by your side, then if you decide to go it alone, Hot Shot.

Hot Shot: I won’t forget that, Optimus-sir.

Jetfire: Sir? Hey, the name’s Jetfire.

Hot Shot: Wow, either I’m overheating or I just heard Optimus speak to me directly from the other side.

Jetfire: Hey, that doesn’t surprise me. Infact, I bet Optimus would’ve chosen you to become the next commander of the Autobots.

Kids: Hahahaha…

Hot Shot: Me, as the new Autobot commander?

Jetfire: I know it’s what Optimus would’ve wanted.

Hot Shot: Really?

Rad: Let’s hear it for Hot Shot!

Kids: Hot Shot! Hot Shot! Hot Shot! All right! Who’s the man? You’re the man!

Hot Shot: Thanks… I guess.

Scavenger: Hot Shot!

Hot Shot: Huh?

Scavenger: I believe we have some unfinished business. Errrrrrr…

Alexis: No! No, don’t do it!

Rad: No! Scavenger, ya gotta leave him alone! It’s over!

Scavenger: Errrrraaaauggghhhh! Heh. You didn’t even flinch.

Hot Shot: Of course not!

Scavenger: Yeah, you’ve got what it takes.

Rad: Aww, all right!

Billy: Boy, I’m sure glad they’re not fighting anymore.

Carlos: Me too. That was more loco.

Alexis: And we’re all friends again.

Fred: Are we? Hyah!

Billy: Hey, what are you doing?

Fred: That was just my blood sugar acting up! I’m sorry, Billy!

Autobots & Kids: Hahahahahaha!

Billy: Blood sugar this! Get back here.

Jetfire: Attention Autobots! I hereby grant Hot Shot the Matrix of the Commander.

Hot Shot: Ohhh… Wait a minute!

Hoist: Hot Shot’s got a case of nerves!

Sideswipe: Just relax, bro!

Red Alert: Excuse me?

Sideswipe: Uh, that’s right. Sorry about that, commander.

Hot Shot: Would you all just lighten up, please?

Rad: Why? What’s wrong?

Alexis: Oh, no.

Hot Shot: Listen, this whole new commander thing sounds too formal to me. My name’s still Hot Shot. I’ll be the leader till we get back to Cybertron and that’s it, okay?

Red Alert: Right!

Jetfire: Heh! You’re a class act.

Hot Shot: Oh, and let’s keep the Matrix of the Commander in a safe place for now. I don’t think I’m quite ready to tackle that one just now, okay? Instead, let’s keep Optimus close to our hearts. All right?

Autobots & Kids: All right!

Rad (VO): Hot Shot’s words put everything in perspective. Optimus might’ve vanished in space, but all of us would keep a piece of him in our hearts and minds. There’s no denying it. The Autobots are back and ready for action!

Hot Shot: Okay, we’re gonna follow the Decepticons back to planet Cybertron and liberate the last of the Mini-Cons. So let’s all get back to work.

Hoist: Yeah! Let’s do it! Right on!

Red Alert: Too bad Optimus isn’t here, ’cause I know he’d love to be apart of this mission. Our teamwork would make him really proud.

Scavenger: And with a leader like Hot Shot to guide us, I guarantee we’ll be going all the way. We can’t be beat.

Blurr: We’re all in this together now, so let’s complete this mission in honour of Optimus Prime.

Hot Shot: All right. Yo, Autobots! Saddle up! We’re heading back to planet Cybertron!

Rad (VO): Thanks to Hot Shot, morale was at an all-time high. Sure this mission would probably be the riskiest thing that they had ever done, but everyone was working so well together, it didn’t matter. Hot Shot took on his new role as leader of the Autobots with ease, and he made sure the spaceship was in excellent running condition. Everything had to be perfect for the Autobots’ return to planet Cybertron.

[End]

Transformers: Armada
“Crisis” – Episode 39
Written by Terry Klassen and Ward Perry
Transcription by Brandon Williams

–
Narrator: The struggle between good and evil rages on. The Decepticons are now in possession of the most powerful Mini-Cons in the galaxy. The Earth’s only chance for a peaceful cosmos is for Optimus Prime and the Autobots to destroy their enemy. Now, get ready for a new battle.

[Commercial]

Worker: Sullivan, what happened to the comet we were just tracking?

Sullivan: It just disappeared off the screen.

Kelly Bongartner: I am standing on the outskirts of downtown. And behind me, to the west, the sky has turned an ominous shade of green and orange. Normally at this time, the sun should be setting, but something unidentified exploded in the stratosphere and has cast a rather foreboding shadow across the city. This is Kelly Bongartner reporting.

Rad: What do you think, Alexis?

Alexis: No clue.

Rad: I’ll bet you anything it was Megatron who was behind that comet exploding.

Carlos: Well duh, a comet just doesn’t explode by itself in mid-air.

Alexis: You wait. I’ll bet we haven’t seen the last of the Decepticons’ handy work by a long shot.

Billy: Yeah, I think you’re right. We’re talking Megatron here. I’ve got a feeling this is only the start of his fireworks.

Fred: So, what do you think he’s doing?

Carlos: I wish I knew. Hey! Hang on, guys! I betcha it’s something even bigger! But, exactly what, I don’t know.

Fred: Hey! what if he’s planning on blowing up the Earth?

Carlos: Well, whatddya think, Rad? Awww, man! That’s gotta be it! Megatron’s gonna blow up Earth and everyone on it!

Billy: What if Fred is right? Do we tell anybody? And if we did, do you really think anybody would believe us?

Fred: We make them believe us, Billy, because if we don’t, we’re toast!

Alexis: Not an option. We promised the Autobots we’d never tell. And a promise is a promise, guys. And besides, they’d just be taken into laboratories and taken apart for science experiments. I’d never let that happen to my friends. And I hope you guys feel the same way I do.

Carlos: She’s right. We keep this a secret, right?

Fred: Yeah, I guess I have to agree.

Billy: Yeah, but what if Optimus has to battle infront of a crowd or something?

Rad: I really think he’s a lot smarter than that. And I’m sure he can handle himself out there. You know, he’s been around for a long time. But here’s my plan, we stay out of their way and let them take care of their own battles. I’m sure that’s what Optimus would want.

Billy: All right, I’m with you all the way, Rad!

Carlos: But Rad, we can’t stay around and not say anything while the whole stinkin’ planet blows up into smithereens.

Rad: Hmm. There’s nothing we can do, Carlos. We’re just gonna have to wait and see.

Carlos: No! We have to do something!

[Transition]

Man on TV: The climate changes are a result of the atmosphere…

Jetfire: What’s that? Ah! There it is. This is Jetfire. I’ve found the Decepticon ship.

Demolishor: Megatron! I’ve locked onto Jetfire!

Megatron: Ignore him, Demolishor. He is but a harmless bug that I can squash at any time I please.

Thrust: Yes, we must remain focused on aligning ourselves with the Autobots’ base to make a direct hit.

Megatron: Do as the Squidhead says, men.

Thrust: Squidhead?! Even you, Megatron?

Cyclonus: Hahahahahahaha!

Thrust: Stop laughing, this is serious! Don’t you realize that once the Hydra Cannon is fired, it takes its time to recharge. That means that while we are waiting, we are sitting ducks!

Megatron: There is no need to get yourself all worked up, Thrust.

Thrust: Well, no one seems to listen to me.

Megatron: You must excuse my men’s conduct. They’re just a little giddy over the prospect of returning home to Cybertron over the next few days. And we must keep up the morale of the men, Thrust. I’m a little giddy myself, Squidhead.

Thrust: My name is Thrust! T-H-R-U-S-T, is that so difficult to remember?!

Megatron: What’s that? You don’t enjoy my Earthly humour? Buck up, soldier, or you’ll be looking at a demotion.

Thrust: I understand, sir.

Jetfire: I’m sure the Decepticons have a lock on my position, but for some reason, they’re just ignoring me. Maybe they’re a whole lot dumber than I thought. I’m going in!

Thrust: Oohh!

Jetfire: Yargh! Transform! Ugh. Sure wasn’t expecting that.

Optimus: Jetfire! What’s going on?

Jetfire: Oh, nothin’. Except touching a six thousand gigawatt forcefield.

Hot Shot: Man, he almost gets his circuits fried and he’s making jokes.

Jetfire: I’m gonna give it another shot. Just hope this time, it won’t melt my entire mainframe. Yaaahh!

Optimus: Are you all right, Jetfire?

Jetfire: Yeah… But it looks like they’ve got a forcefield around their whole ship. I dunno if I can penetrate it. I’ll give it a shot!

Optimus: Return to base, Jetfire. Do you copy?

Jetfire: Roger that. I’m on my way. Transform!

Megatron: Ha, ha. Don’t you just love watching those miserable mechanical morons attempting to attack me, Squidhead?

Thrust: I wish he wouldn’t call me that anymore! How’d he like to be called “Flathead?” Heh, hehehehe!

Megatron: So why don’t you share your little joke with everyone?

Thrust: Heh, heh… I wasn’t, uh, laughing, sir! Flathead! Boy, I can really dish it out! Hehehehe, hahaha!

Megatron: You… are a freak.

Red Alert: Right there. There’s the point of contact, Optimus-sir.

Optimus: Interesting.

Hot Shot: What’s that thing in the middle of the screen?

Scavenger: It appears to be some kind of extreme weapon.

Blurr: It could be. I wonder if they’re planning to attack Earth with it.

Optimus: What we always thought of as a children’s story must be true. When the three weapons are linked together, they form the ultimate weapon, the Hydra Cannon.

Hot Shot: Huh? You think that might be it?

Red Alert: My analysis reveals it is definitely some kind of weapon, sir.

Hoist: Yeah, I’d say a Decepticon weapon of mass destruction.

Sideswipe: I say we go up there and destroy that monstrosity before it destroys this entire planet, Optimus-sir.

Optimus: We must do something. But we won’t destroy it.

Red Alert: If that is the same weapon that destroyed the comet, then one shot would destroy a third of the Earth.

Hot Shot: But that’s insane! We can’t let that happen to Earth!

Scavenger: Hey! We’re dealing with an insane dictator.

Blurr: There’s gotta be something we can do!

Red Alert: If we destroy the weapon, we destroy the Mini-Cons. And our job is to protect them, Blurr.

Hoist: So what’s your problem, Sideswipe?

Sideswipe: Uh… I love this planet so much, Smokescreen. It’s like my home away from home. I’ve met new friends here. They’re like family to me. And I don’t know how to say it, but we’ve gotta save this planet. We’ve just gotta!

Blurr: I know what you mean, Sideswipe. And I think all of us here feel the same way as you do.

Optimus: Hmmm. But for now we’ll wait until Jetfire gets back and fills us in.

Hot Shot: It’s because of him! Because of Starscream. We let him join us and he stabbed us in the back! He stole the Skyboom shield that let the Decepticons build the Hydra Cannon. I knew it was a mistake! Optimus! What were you thinking, huh?! You allowed him to join our ranks! Why?! Opti– sir!

Scavenger: That is enough, Hot Shot.

Hoist: Yeah. We’re a team for good, not for evil.

Hot Shot: Yeah, that’s right! I understand that we’re all responsible. But why did he have to let a Decepticon join us? Why?! Why?! Errgh! What reason did Starscream have to deceive us all? What did we ever do to him to deserve this? I will destroy him! He will pay!

Blurr: Don’t worry, Hot Shot. Starscream will get what he deserves.

Optimus: Huh?!

Jetfire: Transform. No doubt about it. They’re planning to hit our base, sir.

Optimus: Good work.

Jetfire: Thank you, sir.

Optimus: I just have one question, Jetfire. Why didn’t they fire on you? I’m sure they had you locked on their radar.

Jetfire: I had the same thought, sir. But maybe they thought the shield barrier was enough. I guess our real dilemma is breaking through that barrier and getting to Megatron. But we have to do that before they fire that weapon.

Carlos: We, uh, just thought we’d welcome ya back, Jetfire.

Billy: I’ve got a quick question about the Cybertron ship.

Fred: Yeah! We were wondering if we could go after the Decepticons in it!

Red Alert: I’m really sorry to disappoint you boys, but the ship isn’t quite finished yet.

Carlos, Fred & Billy: Aw, that bites.

Optimus: Hot Shot, listen to me. I know you might not believe this, but having Starscream join the Autobots was not a complete failure. I realise what I’m saying at this point in time may not make sense. However, I know things will work out. I hope you can understand that.

Hot Shot: So what are you gonna do about it?! Optimus-sir?!

Carlos: Yeah! I mean, how are we gonna get revenge when we can’t even get near them?

Optimus: Don’t worry. I have a plan.

Jetfire: All right.

Optimus: This could be the final battle, so I want to ensure that it does not involve any humans. And trust me everyone, the Decepticons won’t know what hit them. When the time comes, you’ll all be briefed.

Jetfire: We’re with ya, Optimus.

Hot Shot: Hey, you’re forgetting about me!

Jetfire: You stay put, Hot Shot. Optimus and I have a little party to attend to.

Hot Shot: No fair. I’m as much a part of this battle as you.

Jetfire: But can you Powerlink with any other Autobot like Optimus and me? I didn’t think so.

Hot Shot: Come on, you guys!

Jetfire: You stay put here and watch the base.

Hot Shot: Hey, there’s no way you’re taking off without me. I’m going on this mission and that’s that!

Optimus: Hot Shot.

Hot Shot: Huh?! What’s that?

Optimus: It’s a gift from the original Transformers. It’s called the Matrix. It stores all the data from previous commanders who have served. I want you to hold onto it for me.

Hot Shot: I can’t… I can’t accept that from you, Optimus.

Optimus: I understand. It’s your choice, Hot Shot. Let’s go, Jetfire.

Jetfire: I’m right behind ya, Optimus.

Autobots: Good luck!

Hot Shot (VO): Yeah, good luck, guys.

[Commercial]

Starscream (VO): And now, what am I gonna do? What if I’m the one chosen to destroy planet Earth?

Megatron: Is there anything the matter, Starscream?

Starscream: Huh?

Megatron: Correct me if I’m wrong, but you seem to have reservations about the destruction of Earth. So I ask you, would you be willing to pull the trigger on the Hydra Cannon? You have betrayed my trust on more than one occassion, Starscream. But you always seem to return to the Decepticon fold when it really mattered. So, can I trust you this time? Well, Starscream?

Starscream: Huh?!

Megatron: I will ask you again. Are you willing to pull the trigger and destroy all of planet Earth?!

Thrust: Starscream! Please, you must agree to be the triggerman or you’ll never earn back Megatron’s trust!

Starscream: Errrrghh!

Thrust: He’ll destroy you if you don’t agree with him!

Demolishor: Target is locked on! And we’re now within range.

Optimus: I have visual contact with the cannon.

Demolishor: Hydra Cannon locked and loaded, sir!

Cyclonus: Oh goodie! That means we’re going home to Cybertron! Ohohoh, I can hardly wait to get outta here!

Thrust: Energy level nearing optimum. Disengage electro-shield.

Wheeljack: Shield disengaged.

Megatron: Ha, ha, ha. Victory is at hand. Starscream, prepare to fire the Hydra Cannon!

Optimus: Sayonara, Optimus Prime! It looks like I win! Aah!

Starscream: Aaah! Aah. It’s Optimus!

Megatron: Nooooo!

Thrust: He must have slipped through when we disengaged the electro-shield! Oh no! The Hydra Cannon!

Megatron: Prime is destroying my plan! Annihilate him!

Cyclonus: Yessir!

Demolishor: Roger.

Megatron: Thrust, is the cannon ready to fire?

Thrust: Give me two minutes, sir.

Megatron: Starscream, get out there and get rid of Optimus Prime before I get rid of you! Ugh! Prove your loyalty!

Starscream: Yessir!

Cyclonus: Hahahahaha! Whooohahaha! Let’s party!

Optimus: Jetfire! Time to split up!

Jetfire: I’ll cover your back and keep these clowns busy while you go in and recover the Star Saber and the Mini-Cons! It’s time to get busy! One down.

Cyclonus: Hahahahaha! Oh no! Aaahh!

Jetfire: Urgh! Wheeljack! Starscream.

Tidal Wave: Must destroy Optimus Prime.

Jetfire: Optimus!

Starscream (VO): Optimus!

Tidal Wave: Destroy!

Starscream: Jetfire, don’t turn your back on me! I’m your enemy!

Tidal Wave: Destroy!

Starscream: Aaahh!

Megatron: What are you doing, you idiot?!

Optimus: Must keep focused… My duty is to liberate the Star Saber, Skyboom shield and the Requiem Blaster.

Megatron: Thhhhrrrrruuuuusssttt!

Thrust: It’s almost ready, sir. I’m just boosting the energy level.

Megatron: You fire the Hydra Cannon, Thrust, while I finish off Optimus.

Optimus: I could recharge off the Decepticons’ electro-force field.

Megatron: No freeloading, Prime!

Optimus: Megatron! Let’s do this!

Megatron: Full Blast Mode!

Jetfire: Hang on, Optimus!

Demolishor: You’re all mine.

Jetfire: Why you!

Wheeljack: Hahahahahahaha!

Jetfire: You’re next, Wheeljack.

Cyclonus: It’s payback time! Heh, heh!

Megatron: Hahahahaha!

Thrust: Hydra Cannon is ready to fire, sir!

Megatron: Ye-he-he-he-essss… Here’s a little trivia, Optimus. The Hydra Cannon was originally designed to destroy you. But I have chosen to destroy the Autobots’ base on planet Earth first. Now, watch your moronic minions be blown into a million pieces. Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha!

Jetfire: Optimus!

Megatron: Thrust! Fire the cannon!

Optimus: I must divert the power of the Mini-Cons — before it’s too late! I won’t let you do this!

Megatron: Aaaah! Aaaaaaahhh!

Optimus: AAAAAAAAHHHHHH!

Megatron: Ha, ha, ha. It was nice knowing you, Optimus Prime.

Kelly Bongartner: This is Kelly Bongartner reporting live from downtown. And I’ve just spotted a brilliant light which appears to be heading toward Earth as I speak. But what it is exactly, I don’t have a clue.

Rad: Oh no!

Red Alert: Oh no!

Optimus: Eerrrggghhhh!

Megatron: No! This cannot be happening!

Thrust: I don’t believe my eyes! He’s stopping the blast!

Optimus: Aaaaahh! Just give me… a little more power! Yaah! Aaah! Aaaaaaaaaaaahhhh!

Thrust: What’s going on?! Aaaaahhh!

Cyclonus, Demolishor, Wheeljack & Jetfire: Whooaaaa…

Megatron: Hhh…

Rad: Man, take a look at that!

Fred: What happened to Optimus, you guys?!

Carlos: Don’t worry, Fred. He told us he had a plan, remember?

Alexis: I sure — hope you’re all right.

Billy: Or else we’re in big trouble!

Hot Shot: C’mon!

Optimus: Uggghh…. Ughhhh….

Kids: Whhhooooaaa….

Red Alert, Scavenger, Blurr & Hoist: Hhhhh….

Hot Shot: Huhhh!

Rad: Optimus!

Alexis: All right!

Carlos: Oh yeah!

Billy: Hahahaha…

Fred: Optimus Prime comes through again! Heh. I knew he would!

Red Alert: Wait — just a minute!

Hoist: Now when Optimus and Jetfire Powerlink, there’s nothing in the universe that could defeat them, right?

Kids: Hhhh! Aaah!

Hot Shot: Nooooo!

Autobots & Kids: Optimus!

Megatron: What the?! He’s completely disintegrated into space dust. Opppttiimmuuuusss!

Jetfire: No! This can’t be happening!

Megatron: It’s time to make a hasty retreat, Thrust.

Thrust: Uh, yessir!

Starscream: Urggh, ergh… Huh?! The Earth! It’s still there!

Jetfire: Oppptttimmmuuussssss!

Starscream: Hmmm? (VO) But how could that be?

Jetfire: No! Optimus… And all that’s left is your Matrix. I’ll never forget you, sir. Neevvvveeerrr!

Rad: That night, there was a huge star shower over the Autobots’ base, like the entire universe was crying over the loss of Optimus Prime.

[End]

Transformers: Armada
“Threaten” – Episode 38
Written by Terry Klassen and Ward Perry
Transcription by Brandon Williams

–
Narrator: The war between the Autobots and the Decepticons rages on as they struggle to retrieve the prized Mini-Cons. The side who wins is the side that collects the most. And if the Decepticons prove victorious, then Megatron and his corrupt Mini-Cons control the universe. The Earth’s only chance for a peaceful cosmos is for Optimus Prime and the Autobots to destroy their enemy. Now, get ready for a new battle.

[Transition]

Carlos: How could Starscream do this to us?! That liar! Aaah! That creep!

Blurr & Jetfire: Huh?

Rad: Hey, take it easy.

Billy: No way! Carlos is right.

Alexis: Now stop that. Those are valuable.

Rad: Yeah, Billy. Those rocks are from Mars.

Fred: I believed him. I trusted him. How could he do this to me?!

Alexis: He’s lost it.

Megatron: Hahaha… It’s good to have you back with us, Starscream. And thank you for bringing the three most powerful weapons with you. Hahahaha…

Thrust: Let me take a closer look at those weapons to see if they’re authentic. Huh?

Starscream: Don’t worry. They’re the real deal. Now back off.

Thrust: Why so defensive? We’re on the same side.

Starscream: Yeah, I know.

Megatron: Thrust, stand down. Starscream, bring them to me.

Thrust: Yessir.

Starscream: The Star Saber sword, sir.

Megatron: It looks real to me. Hahaha. I must say very impressive, Starscream. Yes…

Starscream: Thank you. And here’s the Skyboom shield.

Megatron: Starscream. There’s just one last thing.

Thrust: Huh?!

Starscream: W-what’s wrong, Megatron-sir?!

Megatron: Hmm… Ha, ha, ha, ha! Take some time off. You’ve earned it.

Starscream: Uh, thank you very much, sir.

Megatron: Ah, at last we have all three weapons. It’s time. Thrust, it’s up to you. Complete our little project we had planned.

Thrust: Oh, yes, sir. It will be an honour.

Starscream: Complete the project?

Sideswipe: Hey brother? Just relax.

Jetfire: Let ‘im get it out of his system.

[Flashback]

Kids: Thank you, Starscream.

[End flashback]

Alexis: How could he? Hmmm? Thanks a lot, Sureshock.

Thrust: I’ll be going out for a while, and I want the rest of you to keep working.

Cyclonus: Who does he think he is, ordering us around.

Demolishor: And just where is he going, anyway? Huh? It’s Starscream!

Starscream: I’ve got a question for you.

Demolishor: I’d better tell Megatron about this.

Megatron: Hmmm… Starscream attacked him?

Demolishor: That’s right. He dragged him outside, sir.

Megatron: Heh, heh, I see. If they’re at eachother’s throats, well then, we’ll just have to let them settle it.

Demolishor: Uhhh, but sir!

Megatron: It’s none of your concern either. Now get back to work. Who told you to take a break?

Demolishor: ‘Sir. Uh, I’m terribly sorry.

Starscream: I want some answers, Thrust!

Thrust: What’s this all about, Starscream?

Starscream: What is this project? You’d better not lie to me.

Thrust: Ah, yes. Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha…

Starscream: What’s so funny?

Thrust: Well, you didn’t have to drag me out here to get information. I’ll gladly tell you everything. Remember what happened when the three weapons, the Star Saber sword, the Skyboom shield and the Requiem Blaster came together?

Starscream: Huh? Don’t tell me — you want to harness that power!

Thrust: That’s right. When you combine all three, you create a colossal weapon unlike anything that’s ever been seen!

Starscream: Now I get it… And that’s why you manipulated me to get them!

Thrust: I had to do it… for you!

Starscream: Do it for me?

Thrust: Yes. You see, if you defeat Megatron, then I know you will take command of the Decepticons. I’ve always been your ally, Starscream. I just had to hide it from the others so they wouldn’t get suspicious. But, of course, if you don’t believe me, then there’s nothing I can do about it now. Heh. whatever fate you feel I deserve then… I am ready. There is no way that I can defeat Megatron on my own. And it doesn’t make sense for me to carry on now, so might as well finish me off. Heh, heh, heh, heh… He really is a lot dumber than he looks.

Sideways: An impressive performance, Thrust!

Thrust: You heard all that?

Sideways: You’re quite an actor.

Thrust: I learned from the best.

Sideways: Heh, heh. All we have to do now is bring it all together… And the Hydra Cannon will be ours. Heh, heh, heh…

[Commercial]

Girl Singing on TV: I love the Transformers!

Game Shot Host: What’s the name of the German scientist that inv–

Kelly Bongartner: Tune in tomorrow for live coverage of the comet.

Rad: Mmrrmm…

Alexis: Hmmm… Starscream!

Hot Shot: Hey Optimus!

Optimus: What is it, Hot Shot?

Hot Shot: Maybe we should go after the Decepticons before they come after us!

Optimus: Now let’s not be too hasty.

Hot Shot: But they’ve got the sword, the shield and the gun!

Jetfire: I was just going over some data. I think we may be able to get those weapons back. How’s it going, Sideswipe?

Sideswipe: It’s not looking good. The Decepticons’ warp gate is completely sealed.

Jetfire: That doesn’t surprise me.

Hot Shot: We know exactly where they are. So let’s use our own launch gate.

Sideswipe: That’s too dangerous. That would be like going into a tunnel that had no exit. That would be crazy.

Hot Shot: Aw, c’mon! There must be some other way.

Sideswipe: I suppose we could try and use the spaceship maybe.

Hot Shot: Spaceship?

Jetfire: Aww, it’s nowhere near completion.

Hot Shot: Well then that’s it. We’ll just have to hurry up and complete it, because we’ve got no other choice. C’mon, Sideswipe!

Sideswipe: Uhh, sure. Where are we going? Hey, wait up?

Optimus: Hmmm…

Jetfire: Optimus… If you want me to, I’ll pilot the ship to the Decepticon base. I can’t stand all this waiting around!

Optimus: No! Your anger towards Starscream could cloud your judgement. And I need you here right now.

Jetfire: Optimus, please!

Optimus: You’re no good in the field if you can’t control your anger. So I want you to stay here at the base. Hot Shot has been more than a handful lately. Besides, don’t give up on Starscream just yet. There’s no doubt he’s a hardened Decepticon, but he’s still a Transformer. He still could come around. And I’m hoping that all Transformers will make peace with eachother someday.

Jetfire: Well, let’s see if you can convince Megatron…

[Commercial]

Thrust: If we can combine the Star Saber sword, the Skyboom shield and the Requiem Blaster into one, we will have in our possession the greatest weapon in the known universe, Megatron! This new device will be known as the Hydra Cannon. With it, you can conquer the universe!

Megatron: Ah, the Hydra Cannon…

Thrust: You see, the “hydra” refers to a dragon that possesses nine heads. Heh, yeah. So, too, the power of the Hydra Cannon is created by combining the powers of nine Mini-Cons.

Megatron: Interesting. When can we use it?

Thrust: Oh, anytime you wish, sir. However, we should proceed with caution. I think it would be best to test it in open space. I wouldn’t want to risk any harm coming to you, sir.

Megatron: Ha, ha, ha. Then we test it today. I want to see how well this Hydra Cannon works. Thrust, find me a target.

Thrust: Yessir.

Carlos: What’s up, Hot Shot? You leaving?

Hot Shot: We have to, Carlos! There’s no time to waste!

Carlos: Well, hey, why the big hurry? What’s going on?

Hot Shot: We’re taking back what was ours. It’s time to make the Decepticons pay for what they did to us. We’ve let them get away with too much. Hey! Sideswipe, let’s get it in gear!

Sideswipe: Aw, c’mon, bro. Can’t we take a break?

Hot Shot: There’s no time.

Rad: Ah, let’s let them do their work. We’ll only get in the way, guys. Besides, it’s time to forget about Starscream and start thinking about the future.

Carlos: Yeah, all that talk about Starscream just makes me mad. Let’s not mention his name anymore.

Billy: Who were we talking about? Ooh yeah, I’ve already forgot!

Carlos: Yeah! That’s the way to be!

Alexis: Hhhh…

Rad: Uhhh…

Fred: Hey! Why don’t we go check out that comet? It’s almost here!

Billy: You wanna go see the comet, Fred?

Fred: Yeah, sure. It’s way better than going to school, isn’t it?

Carlos: Let’s go to the point and check it out! C’mon!

Rad: Hey, Alexis, about Starscream… I didn’t mean to say that —

Alexis: Look, it’s okay. Don’t sweat it.

Demolishor: Engine activated. All functions appear normal.

Megatron: Good. Then take us into outer space.

Demolishor: Yessir! Launching now!

Thrust: Aaahh!

Megatron: What’s wrong? Is there a problem?

Thrust: Aaah! I’m not sure, sir. Demolishor, get us out of here!

Demolishor: We don’t have enough engine power. We can’t escape the moon’s gravity.

Thrust: What? No! That can’t be!

Demolishor: I’m raising engine output. 120 percent. 130 percent. 150 percent. 170 percent. 190 percent! We’re gaining altitude! Engines at maximum, sir.

Thrust: My calculations for lift-off must have been incorrect, Megatron!

Megatron: For your sake, I hope the Hydra Cannon’s calculations aren’t beyond your control. You promised me a show and that’s what I want to see. Hahaha…

Kelly Bongartner: Tune into this station for live coverage of the comet. This is a once in a lifetime event and you sure don’t want to miss it. Now back to Sandy and Bob in the studio.

Cameraman: That’s a wrap.

Kelly Bongartner: Hhh! Let’s interview some of these bystanders and go home. This is so boring. Are these people here to see the comet or are they waiting for a free ride on the mothership?

Cameraman: Hehehehe…

Pauly: I think I’ll for a nap.

Brad: Yeah, go ahead, Pauly, I’ll cover ya.

Thrust: M-Megatron-sir! I’ve found the ideal target for the test firing of the Hydra Cannon!

Megatron: Perfect. Let’s blast that comet.

Thrust: Throughout human history, they believed the comet was a sign of bad luck. But good luck for us when we blow it to pieces!

Megatron: Well, it had better be. Demolishor, head for that comet.

Demolishor: ‘Sir. Right away, sir.

Megatron: Starscream!

Starscream: Sir?!

Megatron: I’m going to give you honour of taking the first shot with the Hydra Cannon.

Starscream: Uh, the first shot, sir?

Megatron: Yes, you played a big part in putting the Hydra Cannon together.

Starscream: Thank you, but I think you should be the one to take the first shot.

Megatron: You will fire the first shot! Starscream… You will do as you are told.

Starscream: Eehhhh… Of course I will.

Megatron: Starscream… Prepare to fire.

Carlos: Is that it up there?

Fred: Nah. That’s it. Right there!

Billy: Whoa, that’s cool! It’s the comet!

Carlos: That thing is really moving! Man, that’s wild!

Fred: No kiddin’.

Rad: Hey you guys, I’m sure we’ll be able to see it better once the sun goes down.

Alexis: I think I’m gonna go home now.

Rad: Uh, hey, wait up.

Megatron: Fire away!

Starscream: Yessir! Here we go.

Megatron: Mmmmm…

Thrust: Huh? We need full power on the rear engine or we’re going to be blown back by the recoil!

Alexis: Hmm?

Rad: Alexis… Don’t go home, ‘kay?

Billy: Whoa! What the heck’s going on up there?

Carlos: Hey, the comet is getting brighter and brighter!

Fred: I don’t like the looks of this.

Alexis: What’s going on up there?

Rad: The comet blew up.

Alexis: Is that even possible? Hhh! No way!

Pauly: Brad! Come look, the comet exploded!

Brad: We’ve got big trouble! All the computers have completely shut down!

Pauly: That can’t be! What’s going on here?

Kelly Bongartner: What, is that — the comet? What in the world happened to it? Hey Jimmy! Are you getting all of this? C’mon, keep it rolling! This is the story of a lifetime and you’re asleep on the job!

Jetfire: Optimus!

Hot Shot: Are we under attack!

Optimus: No, the comet has exploded, Hot Shot.

Hot Shot: It exploded?

Optimus: And I detected an enormous energy wave coming from the moon.

Jetfire: That is totally bizarre.

Sideswipe: All right! I’ve locked into the source of the energy wave, Optimus. Watch the monitor.

Hot Shot: What?! It’s a ship!

Jetfire: It’s the Decepticons!

Optimus: Megatron!

Sideways: Heh, heh, heh… Hehehehaha!

Starscream: Look! The comet has disappeared!

Thrust: The Hydra Cannon works. It actually works!

Megatron: Hahahaha! Congratulatons, Thrust. It appears your calculations were correct.

Thrust: Megatron, with the Hydra Cannon, we have no need for the other Mini-Cons. Let’s return to Cybertron and conquer the planet!

Megatron: First there’s some unfinished business. Starscream, I want you to target the Autobot base.

Starscream: Hmm? The Autobots’ base?! But if we do that, the Earth will be blown to bits aswell!

Megatron: So what? This is a perfect opportunity to finally destroy the Autobots. I order you to point the Hydra Cannon at their base.

Thrust: But that won’t be possible from here. The Autobots’ base is now on the other side of the planet.

Megatron: What?

Thrust: Although, if we were to move into range and punch in the proper co-ordinates, the Hydra Cannon will make quick work of the Autobots!

Megatron: Ha! You don’t know how clever Optimus Prime is. I’m sure he’ll see us coming and make his escape. I know the way he thinks. But we won’t give him that chance. We attack when he’s still unaware of us. And if we have to destroy the planet, then so be it.

Thrust: Excellent idea, sir. Forgive me for even thinking of questioning you. You are a truly brilliant strategist. Heh. Very well. We will move the ship into position and fire directly at the Earth and destroy the Autobots’ base.

Megatron: Starscream! I’m solely counting on you. Set the sight of the Hydra Cannon for our new target… Planet Earth. Hahahaha!

Sideswipe: Their ship is starting to move. And it’s coming towards the planet!

Optimus: What?!

Hot Shot: Aw, no way. We are done for.

Starscream (VO): I know Megatron wants to get the Autobots. Why does he have to destroy the whole planet? I can’t let this happen. There are too many innocent people down there. My friends are down there. But if I refuse, Megatron will surely cut me down. We’re almost in position. I don’t have much time. What should I do? What should I do?!

[End]

Transformers: Armada
“Crack” – Episode 37
Written by Terry Klassen and Ward Perry
Transcription by Brandon Williams

–
Thrust: Interesting. The Star Saber sword, the Skyboom shield and the Requiem Blaster each have their own unique powers. Yet, when they combine, they become the ultimate weapon of mass destruction! But why are you telling me this, Sideways?

Sideways: Because you seem to be the only Decepticon whose level-headed enough to destroy the Autobots.

Thrust: Hahahaha… Hahahahaha!

Sideways: Hahahaha… Hahahahaha!

Thrust: Hahahaha!

[Transition]

Jetfire: C’mon, men! Let’s look alive! We got a war to win!

Hot Shot: Aw, c’mon, Jetfire, we’re working like dogs here.

Jetfire: Just keep workin’. Huh? Hey Starscream, what are you doing just standing around?

Starscream: Me? Help? Ha. This is all a waste of time, Jetfire. I suggest we launch an all-out attack against the Decepticons instead of this — mindless excerise.

Jetfire: Hey, we’re not the aggressors here. Our jobs is to protect the Mini-Cons first.

Starscream: Yeah, whatever!

Jetfire: Er! You’re a fool!

Starscream: No, you’re the fool! At this rate, you’ll never defeat Megatron. And that’s what I’m here for. I joined the Autobots to bring Megatron down. The Mini-Cons mean nothing to me.

Jetfire: You haven’t changed.

Hot Shot: Hey, take it easy and just relax, Jetfire. And that goes for you too, Starscream. Ya understand?

Starscream: Hmmph!

Blurr: Where you going?

Hot Shot: Yeah, get back here!

Blurr: Typical Decepticon.

Sideswipe: I know.

Red Alert: Hey.

Blurr & Sideswipe: Hmmm?

Red Alert: Enough chit-chat, ladies, we’ve got a job to do.

Jetfire: Ehh, sorry, Red Alert. But what about Starscream?

Blurr: You mean Star-traitor don’t you?

Red Alert: Get back to your stations, men.

Optimus: Hot Shot!

Hot Shot: Huh?

Optimus: Progress report. How’s everything going down here?

Hot Shot: Optimus.

Optimus: Is there… anything a matter, Hot Shot?

Hot Shot: Well, there is something. It’s just that the men and I don’t think we can work with Starscream. And it’s not like we haven’t tried.

Optimus: Hmmmm…

Hot Shot: I guess the Decepticons are programmed a lot different than us.

Optimus: With that in mind, Hot Shot, don’t you think that just might be the reason we’re still battling ’em?

Hot Shot: Yeah, I guess so…

Optimus: I think the first step we should take with Starscream is to try to understand our differences. And then we should attempt to come to some mutual agreement on how best to work together.

Hot Shot: Erghhh…. Hmm?

Optimus: Well…? Good. Now let’s get back to work.

Megatron: Oh, Thrust, exactly how do you propose we capture the Star Saber — and the Skyboom shield?

Thrust: I have developed just the plan for that task, Megatron. Leave everything to me, sire. Hahaha…

Megatron: Hmmm…

Starscream: Huh?

Kids: Surprise! Hahahahaha!

Starscream: What’s going on?

Kids: Thanks a lot for the present, Starscream!

Starscream: I — don’t think I follow.

Rad: Thanks for the rock you brought back from Mars.

Carlos: Yeah, we never really had a chance to say thanks, big guy.

Billy: And Alexis figured we should throw you, you know, a little appreciation party.

Fred: And we even got a cake.

Alexis: We made this for you.

Starscream: So… what is it?

Alexis: A hand-made polishing shammy. Use it to polish anything. Even Runway, for example.

Starscream: Huh? Yeah. Right.

Carlos: Even us guys helped sew it together.

Rad: Yeah, and we even have the needle pricks to prove it.

Fred: So, when ya gonna cut the cake?

Alexis: Oh, don’t you like it?

Starscream: Uh, no, no… I wouldn’t say that. I mean, it’s very — colourful. It’s just that I haven’t had anyone give me a present before.

Carlos: You can’t be serious. What about on your birthday? You never got nothin’?

Starscream: Uhhh… So what does one — do in a situation like this?

Alexis: Uh, heh, why don’t you just try saying thank you?

Starscream: Thank you. Thank you. Right?

Alexis: Yeaaah, heh, heh!

Starscream: Ohh…

Carlos: So give us the scoop on what it was like up on Mars, dude.

Rad: Yeah, we wanna hear all about it.

Fred: Does anything grow up there that you can eat without croaking on the spot?

Billy: Hey, are there any aliens living on the Red Planet?

Starscream: Well, kids…

Jetfire: Hey, Starscream, how ’bout sharing some of the work around here by going surveillance duty up in the control room.

Starscream: I’ll never get used to the Autobots’ work ethic.

Carlos: Well, I guess you better get going.

Starscream: Don’t worry. If I don’t do it, someone will take care of it. No big deal.

Alexis: You cannot be serious, Starscream.

Starscream: Huh?

Alexis: I mean, sluffing off like that. It’s not the way Autobots work. Don’t you get it? They’re a team, and without teamwork, nothing would get done at all around here.

Carlos: Hey… Where do you think you’re going?

Starscream: To get a little peace and quiet.

Alexis: Hmmm…

Billy: Aw, man, what’s his problem?

Rad: Whoa-ho, he sure is self-centered.

Alexis: Uh huh…

Starscream: All this teamwork talk is starting to make me go soft. Huh? What is that? Transform! Someone’s watching.

Thrust: Surprise!

Starscream: Thrust!

Thrust: Thanks for coming, Starscream. I was so worried you wouldn’t remember our little signal I sent you on the Autobots’ monitor. So, what’s it like being a traitor?

Starscream: Why you! You snivelling coward, show yourself and fight!

Thrust: Please forgive my rudeness. I don’t know what came over me. I must confess, I too have become rather disheartened by Megatron.

Starscream: I’ve had enough of your games!

Thrust: I agree with you that Megatron has failed to prove himself as a leader. So join with me and together we can bring Megatron down!

Starscream: No deal, Thrust!

Thrust: You are a fool if you think you can destroy him the help of those pathetic Auto-boobs!

Fred: Hey, Billy, I got a question. Ya think Starscream liked that shammy we gave to him?

Billy: Of course, dummy. Everyone always likes their first present. Don’t you know anything?

Fred: I guess you’re right. Huh?

Billy: What’s up, bud?

Fred: Look! It’s Starscream!

Billy: Gee, I wonder what he’s doing way out here.

Fred: Me too.

Billy: Hmmm.

Thrust: Well then, here’s a simple question. Have you considered returning to your comrades?

Starscream: What? Back to the lunar base?

Thrust: Yes, and may I suggest your chances of overthrowing Megatron are greater from within…

Starscream: No way. Only a fool with a death wish would return to stand before Megatron. And trust me, Thrust, I for one am not a fool.

Thrust: Here’s a simple solution. Bring Megatron some worthless Autobot trophy and I assure you all will be forgiven.

Starscream: Trophy, you say?

Thrust: Yes, something like — I don’t know, the Skyboom shield, perhaps? It’s just a thought.

Starscream: No!

Thrust: There’s no hurry, Starscream. Take your time. And when you’ve decided, you can tell me your decision back at the lunar base.

Starscream: Erggh, why the nerve! Transform!

Billy: Aw man, what was that all about, Fred?

Fred: I don’t have a clue!

Billy: Well, we gotta tell all the others about this.

Fred: Let’s go.

Billy: Yeah.

Thrust: Excellent… The seed has been planted.

Sideways: Yes… Your dramatic skills truly impress me, Thrust. But do you really believe you convinced him that by joining forces with you, it’s his best option to destroy Megatron?

Thrust: I do, Sideways. But now imagine how shocked he would be if he only knew that you and I had formed an alliance.

Sideways: So would Megatron… Hahaha…

[Commercial]

Blurr: Hey. Starscream…

Starscream: Hmmm?

Blurr: What’s wrong?

Starscream: Uh, nothing’s wrong. I, uh, better go, I’ve got work to do.

Blurr: Hmmm? Don’t ask me why, you guys, but I got a feeling something smells fishy here.

Starscream: Why now? Why — am I doubting myself? Concentrate. And the strange feeling I get from the humans.

Kids (in flashback): Hahahahahaha!

Carlos: Oh, man, this totally bites. I wish we could help the Autobots build the spaceship or do something, ’cause I’m bored outta my mind.

Rad: Hang in there, bud. It won’t be much longer.

Carlos: What won’t?

Rad: When they finish building the spaceship.

Alexis: So do you think they’ll return to Cybertron, Rad?

Rad: Good question. And I wonder if they’ll take us along.

Carlos: Yeah, I wonder.

Alexis: I don’t know. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see if they do.

Carlos: Man, that’d be a drag. They’ve become like our closest friends.

Alexis: You’re right, Carlos.

Carlos: But that’s never gonna happen! Right? Huh? I’d miss you too. But let’s not get all bummed out about it, okay guys? Yeah-ah. Hey, I got it! Forget tomorrow and be happy about today, guys.

Jetfire: Well, I think that just about does it.

Hot Shot: I’m all done over here, Jetfire.

Fred: Guys! We just saw a coneheaded Decepticon!

Blurr: You mean Thrust?

Billy: He was just outside our base.

Hot Shot: What are we waiting for? C’mon, let’s go get ‘im!

Sideswipe: Yeah, baby!

Fred: Hang on a sec, Hot Shot. Starscream chased the creep away already. Starscream is my hero.

Hot Shot: You are one twisted kid.

Billy: What’s so wrong with a kid having a hero, huh?

Jetfire: Yeaha, like Starscream’s a hero. Uhh… Starscream! We were just — talking about you!

Starscream: I hope it was all good.

Blurr: Don’t play dumb with us, buddy. Fred just told us you drove off Thrust. Way to cover our backs, Starscream.

Starscream: Oh, that. Yeah, right.

Sideswipe: I wish I’d been there to see you in action, my friend.

Hoist: There you are. Where’d you take off to?

Hot Shot: What’s up with you, Smokescreen?

Hoist: That’s what I came to find out. I can’t find the Skyboom Mini-Cons anywhere.

Starscream (VO): The Mini-Cons are here?

Fred: Hey, uh, that reminds me, Starscream. Didn’t that coneheaded guy ask you to bring the Skyboom shield with you to their moonbase?

Billy: Yeah, what’s up with that, anyway?

Jetfire: Don’t tell me you’re about to double-cross us!

Hoist: Did you hand over those three Mini-Cons to them, Starscream?

Starscream: Uhh… No… D-d-don’t be ridiculous.

Blurr: But you do admit you saw him outside our base, right?

Hoist: I just knew this would happen.

Hot Shot: Hold your horses, men!

Hoist: Huh?

Hot Shot: C’mon. Let’s not jump to any conclusions here. Starscream is on our side, don’t you remember? And don’t forget, he’s innocent unless he’s proven guilty! Okay, Starscream, help me out and explain what’s up here. Because if ya don’t, let’s put it this way, you are so out the creek. And right now, you look pretty guilty.

Starscream: Guilty, huh? I don’t think it matters what I say because you’ve already convicted me. But thanks for trying, Hot Shot.

Hot Shot: Er, that is not true!

Starscream: Please, let’s face facts. I am much different than you. I was programmed as a Decepticon and I don’t apologize for that. I’ve tried my best to understand the way you and the others think. But I must admit, it was a failed experiment.

Hot Shot: No one said you did it. We just wanna know the truth.

Starscream: But you can’t handle the truth!

Optimus: What’s all this ruckus?

Hot Shot: Optimus-sir…

Hoist: The three Skyboom shield Mini-Cons are missing, sir.

Sideswipe: The kids told us they saw Thrust outside our base and he was insisting Starscream deliver the Skyboom shield to their lunar base. That’s the story so far, sir. Starscream isn’t saying anything.

Optimus: Hmmm… Starscream, explain yourself. What–?

Tidal Wave: Heh, heh, heh. Attack now!

Cyclonus: Hahahahahaha! Woohoo! Hahaha! Ready or not, here we come! Ha, ha, ha, hahahaha! Hahaha, woohoo! Locked on and — firing! Oooh, looks like we’ve got company, boys!

Jetfire: I hope you brought a parachute, Deceptifool, because you’re going down.

Cyclonus: Aaah! I’m hit, I’m hit!

Demolishor: You’ll pay for that, Autobot! Get on him, Tidal Wave!

Tidal Wave: Your wish is my command.

Hot Shot: Jetfire!

Billy: Look! Jetfire’s taking a pounding.

Fred: Hey, wait a minute! How come Starscream’s not out there helping?

Billy: How can you tell who’s out there, Fred? They’re kicking up too much dust.

Starscream: Transform! Thrust, show yourself!

Thrust: Have you made your decision?

Starscream: I have, Thrust. I think I’ll stay put here with bots I can trust.

Thrust: You disappoint me. And you’ll live to regret your decision.

Starscream: What?

Thrust: Starscream, I fully understand your desire for revenge against Megatron.

Starscream: You don’t understand anything about me, Thrust. I’ll get my revenge because I have the tools to get the job done. So out of my way, or I’ll slice you in half, you pathetic snake!

Thrust: Oh, you talk a tough game. Name your price, Starscream. Join forces with me and together we can take down Megatron! I, too, am a warrior on a mission. I aspire to lead the Decepticons to victory, yet one obstacle remains in my way — a thorn, if you will — and I intend to pluck it! Hahahaha! Why are you resisting my offer? You know there is strength in numbers, Starscream. So, shall we unite and bring down Megatron together? Hmmm? I need you, Starscream.

Optimus: Jetfire, let’s Powerlink.

Jetfire: Ready when you are, Optimus-sir. Powerlink!

Optimus: Ready to Powerlink.

Optimus & Jetfire: Transform!

Optimus: There’s no time to waste. Let’s get busy.

Tidal Wave: Incoming bogey. Sighted and locked on.

Optimus: It’s time to sink you for good, Tidal Wave!

Tidal Wave: Transform!

Hot Shot: All right! That’s a bullseye! Literally. Time to — transform!

Tidal Wave: You are mine, Autobot!

Hot Shot: Oh man, this is getting a little too close for comfort. Transform! Okay, you overgrown lughead, just keep going. Boy, that creep’s dumber than a bar of soap. Hey, who’s out there?

Carlos: Hey, it’s us, Hot Shot!

Hot Shot: Hey, what in the world are you kids doing out here, huh? What? Dirt Boss! Mirage! Downshift! We’ve been looking all over for you guys. We thought you might’ve been captured by the Decepticons.

Alexis: We were just trying to help out so we decided to take them for a walk.

Hot Shot: Huh?!

Rad: Sorry, Hot Shot. I guess we should’ve told someone what we were doing with them.

Hot Shot: Oh no, I almost forgot. We accused Starscream of stealing them.

Kids: Huh?

Hot Shot: Okay, you guys. Listen up good. I need you to Powerlink with the shield.

Hoist: Erggh! You’re gonna pay for this, Starscream! How dare you steal our Skyboom shield! Huh? Whoa, the Skyboom shield!

Hot Shot: Starscream is innocent. He never stole the Mini-Cons, Smokescreen. They were with the kids.

Hoist: Great. I guess we all owe Starscream a giant Autobot apology.

Thrust: Heh, heh, heh, heh… It seems your friends have found what they were looking for.

Starscream: I’ve had enough of you!

Thrust: Why are you angry at me? I only wanted to form an alliance with you.

Starscream: What’s that?

Thrust: We both want Megatron destroyed. But why do you insist on working against me?

Starscream: That’s enough! Stop yammering! Why can’t I — destroy him?!

[Flashback]

Kids: Surprise!

Fred: And we even got a cake.

[End Flashback]

Thrust: The decision is yours. You can either become soft and forget your glorious heritage or you can join me. And if you decide the latter, it is only a matter of time before we drink from the cup of victory! You must choose, but I suggest you choose wisely. Your childish blathering annoys me, Starscream. You are a Decepticon, now act like one!

Starscream: Huh?

Tidal Wave: Destroy all Autobots.

Hoist: Hang in there, Optimus. The Skyboom shield’s on its way.

Thrust: Well?

Hoist: Heads up, Optimus!

Thrust: Well?! Why you… Hehehahahaha… I don’t believe it. It worked. It actually worked. Starscream bought it! Ohhhooh, and don’t think I’ll forget about your moment of insubordination, Starscream!

Optimus: Good work, Smokescreen! What?

Hoist & Hot Shot: Optimus-sir!

Alexis, Carlos & Rad: Huh?

Billy & Fred: Huh?

Optimus: Starscream!

Starscream (VO): I don’t know if this is the right choice. I have made my decision.

Thrust: Well? What is it?

Starscream (VO): I must do everything there is in my power to bring Megatron down. And I swear I will crush him personally… (Out loud) Goodbye, kids. And thanks. I’ll never forget you.

Hot Shot: I can’t believe this. Starscream… Why, Starscream? Why?!

[End]

Transformers: Armada
“Mars” – Episode 36
Written by Terry Klassen and Ward Perry
Transcription by Brandon Williams

–
Narrator: The war between the Autobots and the Decepticons rages on as they struggle to retrieve the prized Mini-Cons. The side who wins is the side that collects the most. And if the Decepticons prove victorious, then Megatron and his corrupt Mini-Cons control the universe. The Earth’s only chance for a peaceful cosmos is for Optimus Prime and the Autobots to destroy their enemy. Now, get ready for a new battle.

[Transition]

Rad: What’s his problem?

Carlos: No clue, dude.

Alexis (VO): Starscream had a big problem. He was unable to bring down Megatron. And now he’s angry. He had joined the Autobots with the specific mission of destroying Megatron. But his goal wasn’t shared with the Autobots. They didn’t care.

Rad: He stopped.

Carlos: Maybe he’s gonna puke up his lunch.

Alexis: Carlos!

Starscream (VO): What am I doing here? I’m wasting my time following the orders of Optimus Prime and the others. I must get to Megatron soon… or perish.

[Transition]

Rad: Hey Alexis, where are ya going?

Carlos: And what’re you doing?

Rad: Hey, that’s dangerous!

Carlos: Yeah, Starscream is a little out to lunch right now. Uh, look out!

Alexis: Oh, relax. Hey, Starscream!

Starscream: Leave me alone.

Alexis: Come on, Starscream. I know why you’re upset.

Starscream: Yeah, it’s all about the Mini-Cons.

Alexis: Hmmm?

Starscream: I want to be left alone now.

Alexis: Jeepers. You go out of your way to try and help somebody — and all they do is bite your head off.

Rad: Are you okay, Alexis?

Carlos: Yeah, what’s going on?

Alexis: I’m fine, you guys. But I don’t think Starscream is. He’s gonna do something drastic.

Rad & Carlos: Wha?

Cyclonus: Ooohahahaa, hooohoo! Megatron looks a little testy today, huh?

Demolishor: Do you blame him? The Autobots got away with all the Mini-Cons after the last battle. Remember?

Thrust: Any of you ladies going to do any work today or are you just going to stand around chatting with one another? If we’re short of Mini-Cons, then you’re the ones responsible for building the spaceship! Now why don’t you get to work!

Cyclonus: Huh?

Demolishor: Hmmm.

Cyclonus: Hey, just when we had something really good to gossip about. Hahahaha.

Thrust: Ugh. Useless fools.

Sideways: Hahahahaha…

Thrust: Who’s there? Show yourself.

Sideways: What a pitiful commander.

Thrust: I know you’re there!

Sideways: Hahahaha… You’re too foolish to realize that the Requiem Blaster’s power’s no more than a tiny blip compared to the power that’s available in this universe. Foolish Decepticon.

Thrust: Sideways! It’s you. Just what are you trying to say?

Sideways: The sword, the shield and the gun. Think about it. The three powers complete one another.

Thrust: The three powers? It’s true. The Star Saber, the Skyboom shield and the Requiem Blaster. These Mini-Con teams will be very powerful if they were united. Wait a minute. If they were united. A sword… a shield… and a gun. Do the three unite to become one? Wait! Sideways, why have you told me this? Sideways? Perhaps Sideways is just trying to trick me. On the other hand, if what he told me about the Mini-Cons is really the truth, and the sword and the shield are captured… And they’re combined with the gun… Then what will happen? Hahahahahahahaha! We will destroy the Autobots with our new found power! Hahahahaha! Hahahahahahaha!

Optimus: What is it? What’s going on?

Rad: We found another Mini-Con, Optimus. It’s a new one.

Optimus: A new Mini-Con!

Carlos: You serious? Where is it, Alexis?

Alexis: Hang on. I’m trying to find out, but something’s not right.

Rad: What do you mean?

Alexis: Well, it doesn’t look like Earth’s surface.

Starscream: The moon? Is it at the Decepticon base where Megatron is?

Alexis: No, it’s not. It looks like it’s —

Rad: Totally bizarre. What is it, Alexis?

Alexis: It… It looks like Mars! That new Mini-Con’s on Mars.

Billy: Mars?

Optimus: I’m not surprised.

Fred: But that’s in outer space.

Carlos: Hey, guys, can I come with you, please?

Scavenger: We can’t go into outer space.

Hot Shot: For starters, neither of us can even fly.

Optimus: But we can’t abandon the Mini-Con.

Billy: Sometimes you just gotta go.

Fred: I gotta go.

Rad: Scavenger’s right, you guys. The only ones that can make the trip to Mars right now are Jetfire and Starscream.

Jetfire: Yeah. I can handle this on my own. Outer space, no probs. All I have to do is find the Mini-Con before the Decepti-dummies, right?

Optimus: Hmmm…

Carlos, Billy & Fred: Hmmm?

Hoist: Here ya go.

Starscream: Wait a minute! I’m going too. Megatron will be there.

Jetfire: Oh, who said you could come? Why don’t you just follow orders for once, huh? You’re just gonna slow me down, anyway.

Hot Shot: C’mon, Jetfire, why don’t you take ‘im?

Jetfire: I don’t need the trouble.

Carlos: Last one there is a rotten egg!

Jetfire: Okay, guys. I am ready to roll. Aaah…

Alexis: Is there something wrong?

Fred, Billy & Carlos: Hey! Hahahaha! Hello!

Alexis: Yikes.

Rad: At least they’re wearing helmets this time.

Autobots: Hahahahahaha…

Carlos: C’mon, you gotta take us with you, man!

Billy: Yeah, we wanna go into space too!

Alexis: Quit wasting time. Get out of his way.

Billy: Is that a no then?

Fred: Aww please?

Rad & Alexis: No!

Carlos: Awww, but I wanted to be like a rocket man, man.

Jetfire: Yeah, uhh, sorry to disappoint you.

Billy: Well, at least bring us back a souvenir.

Fred: Like a Mars rock.

Jetfire: Yeah, I’ll… see what I can do. Huh?

Starscream: Out of my way! I’m taking off first.

Jetfire: Hey! Who does he think he is!

Megatron: Have they left planet Earth yet?

Thrust: Yes, sir. They’ve sent Jetfire and Starscream to intercept the Mini-Con.

Megatron: And Starscream has the Star Saber with him, does he not?

Thrust: I have sent Tidal Wave to greet them. As soon as they get near the base, he will attack.

Megatron: If what you have told me is true, Thrust, the three power weapons can combine into one, unleashing the ultimate power of the universe. And vanquishing the Autobots forever.

Thrust: Yes, sir. Victory will soon be ours.

Megatron: Yes… This is about to get interesting.

Jetfire: Man, where did that nutcase Starscream get to now? Ah, well, forget him. The Mini-Con is what matters now. There you are, little one. Off you go! Find that Mini-Con as quickly as you can. We’re all counting on ya, and the clock is ticking for all of us. Still, I wish I knew where Starscream was. And there’s a storm coming in.

Alexis: Come in, Jetfire. Do you read me? Over.

Jetfire: Yeah, I’m reading you but you’re breaking up real bad.

Alexis: We haven’t got anymore data for you, except for the Mini-Con is there. You’re on your own.

Jetfire: I’m not making out what you’re saying.

Alexis: Come again? Over.

Rad: What did he say?

Alexis: He’s too far away.

Fred: Err, uh… Somebody — help me!

Rad: What’s the problem?

Fred: My nose is itchy… and I can’t scratch it!

Rad: So why don’t you take your helmet off?

Alexis: Oh, would you goofs be quiet. You guys shouldn’t have put on those spacesuits in the first place.

Fred: But if I can’t touch my face, how am I gonna eat my lunch? Huh?

Optimus: Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha!

Starscream: Megatron! Where are you? Megatron!

Tidal Wave: Tidal Wave is here!

[Commercial]

Jetfire: What’s that?

Starscream: At last I have you, Megatron! Tidal Wave? It’s you? Alone?

Tidal Wave: Starscream…

Starscream: You’re not the one I’m looking for! Where is Megatron?

Tidal Wave: Give me the Star Saber!

Starscream: Never!

Tidal Wave: Transfooooormmm!

Rad: Ah, wonder what’s going on with Jetfire.

Alexis: I sure hope he’s okay.

Hot Shot: I hope Starscream’s not doing anything stupid, either.

Kids: Huh?

Hot Shot: I mean… Heh, heh. I hope he’s doing okay.

Optimus: Errr…

Starscream: I don’t need your sympathy. Now leave me alone. Even the Mini-Cons have abandoned me now. I don’t even know why I’m here, anyway. All I ever wanted was a chance to defeat Megatron. Is that so much to ask for? They don’t understand what it’s like to be a Decepticon. (VO) Still, I’m gonna make a stand right here on this planet. I will find Megatron wherever he may be, and I will crush him. Errghh… huh? Huh?

Jetfire: Is this where he is? There you are. I’ve been looking for you. Here. Give me your hand.

Starscream: Just save it. I want to be left alone.

Jetfire: Still as stubborn as ever, I see.

Starscream: Your mission is to rescue the Mini-Cons! So do it!

Jetfire: Look, why don’t you get up off your butt and do your job like you’re supposed to. Help me get that Mini-Con back to Earth.

Starscream: That’s your job. My purpose here is to bring down Megatron! You can’t possibly understand the humiliation that I’ve suffered!

Jetfire: You know what, you’re right. I don’t understand. And I don’t want to eihter!

Starscream: What do you think you’re doing to me?

Jetfire: I’m busting ya for the crime of disobeying orders. Sorry.

Starscream: You can’t be serious! Get these off me now!

Jetfire: No can do. Like I said, you’re busted. I’ll decide everything you do from this point on. It’s for your own good and you know it.

Starscream: You’ll pay for this.

Jetfire: I’ve placed Starscream under arrest and I’m bringing him in from Mars immediately.

Rad: And the Mini-Con?

Jetfire: He’ll have to wait.

Sideswipe: What? Are you nuts? We’re gonna need the Mini-Con to–

Optimus: That’s enough. Go ahead and bring Starscream in right now. It’s time that he learned a little lesson. Isn’t that right, kids?

Alexis: Aheheheh…

Jetfire: C’mon, Starscream. Quit struggling.

Starscream: Would you just leave me alone?

Jetfire: Listen to me, I know the Decepticons are used to fighting for themselves, but Autobots aren’t like that. We function as a team. If one member isn’t obeying orders, then the whole group will fall apart. Right? Everyone has to do their part. Everyone has to help just the same.

Starscream: I must have Megatron.

Jetfire: You know what, I’ve had enough. I’m taking you back to Earth and don’t try to stop me.

Starscream: Hold on a sec!

Jetfire: Save your breath.

Starscream: I see him.

Jetfire: Who, Megatron?

Starscream: No, the Mini-Con!

Jetfire: What?

Starscream: Over there. On that asteroid.

Jetfire: I see it!

Starscream: You’re going to rescue him, aren’t you?

Jetfire: Lemme tell ya my personal motto. Victory is mine! Ignite! There it is! Okay, Starscream, when we fly over, you grab it.

Starscream: You’re asking me? Okay.

Jetfire: Careful…

Starscream: Get me a bit closer.

Jetfire: Ah! Decepticons!

Tidal Wave: Tidal Wave. They have the Star Saber and Skyboom shield with them.

Thrust: Haha! It’s working!

Megatron: Good. Let’s move out. C’mon.

Thrust: Uhhh, Megatron-sir? Wait a minute! He’s gone… He’s so difficult sometimes.

Tidal Wave: Heh, heh! Hehehehahahaha!

Jetfire: I can’t move like this!

Starscream: Then take these cuffs off me before they get us both killed!

Jetfire: If I could do that, I would’ve done it already.

Starscream: Fire!

Jetfire: Huh?

Starscream: I said fire! We Autobots will protect you! The Decepticons will use you as a tool for war! Trust me!

Jetfire: Keep talking, Starscream. That’s the way.

Starscream: Don’t become a Decepticon! Save yourself! Take it down! Fire! Fire!

Tidal Wave: Blaaarggh!

Jetfire: Do it, Starscream! Nice work. Rescue mission accomplished.

Starscream: Heh?

Jetfire: What is it?

Starscream: Megatron! Now I will finish him off for good!

Jetfire: No chance. We have to turn back.

Megatron: Stand and fight, you coward.

Starscream: I will fight him.

Jetfire: No way. We’re leaving.

Thrust: This is it! The three powers!

Jetfire: What’s going on?! What is this?

Megatron: And now the moment we’ve all been waiting for!

Alexis: Jetfire! Starscream! What’s the matter — what’s happening out there?

Billy: Was there another storm?

Alexis: No, I think something else happened.

Hot Shot: What, Decepticons?

Jetfire: Jetfire here. Over.

Alexis: What just happened?

Jetfire: Everybody relax. We had some trouble, but we’re okay now. We managed to rescue the Mini-Con and we’re on our way back to you.

Alexis: And Starscream?

Jetfire: Who? Starscream? Uhhh, I don’t know anyone by that name.

Starscream: Very funny.

Jetfire: Hahahaha!

Hot Shot: Heh, heh.

Thrust: Megatron, come in. Megatron, where are you? Megatron!

Megatron: Where am I? What just happened?

Tidal Wave: Tidal Wave has arrived.

Thrust: I’m sorry, sir. The huge explosion of energy blasted us. It’s true, the uniting of the three weapons creates tremendous power.

Megatron: Aaahh…

Optimus: A mysterious power, you say?

Jetfire: That’s right.

Optimus: Until we know more about it, let’s keep this to ourselves. We wouldn’t want to cause unnecessary alarm.

Jetfire: Yes, sir. I’ll have a word with Starscream and let him know not to say anything.

Optimus: Good.

Red Alert: You got shot up pretty bad, Starscream.

Starscream: Aah, it’s not a big deal.

Red Alert: Spare me the tough guy act.

Carlos: So what was outer space like?

Billy: How was Mars?

Fred: Can you scratch your nose in outer space? Wait, do you have a nose?

Jetfire: Right here, brainiac. You shouldn’t be so eager to show off whatcha don’t know.

Carlos: So, did you bring back a souvenir?

Jetfire: Uhhh, sorry, guys. The souvenir shops on Mars were all closed.

Carlos, Billy & Fred: Awwww!

Fred: Will they be open tomorrow?

Alexis: Starscream.

Starscream: Yes? What is it?

Alexis: I hear you convinced the Mini-Con to join the Autobots. I know you like the Mini-Cons. Which is why, in my opinion, you belong on the Autobots’ side.

Starscream: Spare me. My mission is to bring Megatron down, that’s it.

Alexis: Hey, Carlos!

Carlos: Huh? Hey, what do you got there?

Fred: I got a rock! I got a rock!

Alexis (VO): Bringing down Megatron might be Starscream’s personal mission, but that day, he showed us that he really cared after all. I believe the day is coming soon when Starscream will join the Autobots. For good. Forever.

[End]

Transformers: Armada
“Rescue” – Episode 35
Written by Terry Klassen and Ward Perry
Transcription by Brandon Williams

–
Narrator: The war between the Autobots and the Decepticons rages on as they struggle to retrieve the prized Mini-Cons. The side who wins is the side that collects the most. And if the Decepticons prove victorious, then Megatron and his corrupt Mini-Cons control the universe. The Earth’s only chance for a peaceful cosmos is for Optimus Prime and the Autobots to destroy their enemy. Now, get ready for a new battle.

[Transition]

Demolishor: Curse that Starscream. No matter what he does, he always messes it up somehow. And who’s left to clean it up? Me, that’s who. And I’m tired of it. Ya think anyone would help tidy this mess up? Now I can only hope this time Megatron will make that idiot Starscream pay for his stupidity. Huh?

Starscream: Errrr…

Demolishor: Ooohhh! Starscream!

Starscream: Heh, heh. I thought I heard you whining here, Demolishor. Do you have something you want to say to me? Let’s hear it, because I wouldn’t want to be eating away at you. Then maybe we can settle this. Unless of course you don’t have the hardware to face me. I hope you don’t mind. I brought along my new friends.

Demolishor: You — can’t be serious…

Jetfire: Yeah-ha!

Hot Shot: What’s up?

Demolishor: Whooa-hooohhh… I, uh…

Starscream: Heh, heh, heh… I hope I’m not imposing on you, Demolishor.

Demolishor: How did you all get here? You must’ve travelled through the warp gate.

Starscream: You know what, you’re not as dumb as you look. And for your information, you’re the reason I changed sides. Oh, one more thing, Demolishor. I’ve decided to destroy your mainframe first before we take down Megatron!

Demolishor: Enemy invasion… Enemy invasion!

Hot Shot: Hey, where do you think you’re going?

Demolishor: Megatron! We’re under attack!

Starscream: It’s time to finish you off, Demolishor.

[Transition]

Megatron: Now what’s going on down there?

Thrust: I’m not sure, but the alarm was set off in the control room.

Wheeljack: Maybe the Autobots found us.

Cyclonus: Yeah, ha, right. Like they’re intelligent enough to get past our secruity.

Hot Shot: Man. So much for a surprise attack.

Optimus: Don’t worry, Hot Shot. We’ll regroup and attack again.

Starscream: You don’t have to tell me twice.

Optimus: Hold on, Starscream! I want you to hold back with Perceptor and release all the Mini-Cons held captive here. You know the layout, and that’s why we need you to carry out this mission for us.

Starscream: Right.

Cyclonus: Okay! Okay! Maybe I was wrong about the Autobots being able to break in here!

Megatron: Those cowards. Go destroy them now.

Optimus: Megatron.

Thrust: Uh oh… This is not good.

Optimus: Sorry to barge in like that, but this is where it ends.

Megatron: Optimus… It’s so nice to see you again. Why I was just looking for a new target for my Requiem Blaster.

Starscream: Sorry, Megatron. But I’ve come back to settle a personal score with you.

Megatron: I see the plot has thickened somewhat, eh, Starscream? What, with you bringing over our guests. I never saw you as a traitor. But as another Autobot lapped on?

Starscream: That’s it! I’ve had it!

Optimus: Stand down, Starscream! Understand? This is not what I ordered you to do.

Starscream: No! And don’t try to stop me, Optimus!

Megatron: Well, enough idle chit chat. I have a traitor to obliterate! Adios, Autobot!

Thrust: In… incredible!

Megatron: Oh yesss… It is incredible.

Thrust: Oh no! What if the blast causes the roof to collapse? May I suggest, sir, that you and the others escape while I cover your retreat?

Megatron: Good plan.

Jetfire: Look! Megatron’s disappeared… Where’d he go?

Thrust: Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha! My apologies, gentlemen, but Megatron had more urgent matters to attend to. Now how can I help you?

Cyclonus: Boy, what a show-off! So who died and put Mr. Conehead in charge?

Tidal Wave: Stop your whining, Cyclonus.

Wheeljack: Enough talk. Get him!

Starscream: What kind of leader runs and leaves his men to fight alone? You’re a coward, Megatron!

Carlos: I dunno if I can watch this! The Autobots don’t stand a chance against the Requiem Blaster.

Rad: Yeah, and we’re totally helpless just watching ’em.

Alexis: But Rad, what if they don’t find the Mini-Cons in time?

Carlos: Aw, man. Perceptor. We forgot about Perceptor!

Alexis: Laserbeak, find Perceptor. And stick to him like glue, all right?

Sideswipe: Yeah! All right! Finally gonna see a little action and then everyone will see what the ‘Swiper can do around here! Bigger they are, the harder they fall! Yeah!

Scavenger: Maybe you should pick on someone your own size, Sideswipe. Now get off your butt and get back in there.

Optimus: Hot Shot, I can’t see Perceptor anywhere. Go after him, understand?

Hot Shot: But — but Optimus, sir. I thought you ordered Starscream to take care of him.

Starscream: Megatron! Come out and show yourself!

Optimus: Starscream is so intent on destroying Megatron that he’s forgotten his mission. I think it’s best he stays focused on that, Hot Shot, while you take care of Perceptor and find the other Mini-Cons.

Hot Shot: I’m on it, sir. Huh? Better step aside, ya creep!

Demolishor: I’m gonna crush you like a tin can, you punk. I was getting tired of running anyway. Hahaha. Ha, ha, ha. Aw, too bad. You took a wrong turn. Hahaha.

Kids: Yeah!

Demolishor: Why you little mechanical vulture!

Hot Shot: Hey Perceptor, are you okay?

Rad: Aw, man. That was a close one. Hot Shot got there in the nick of time.

Alexis: Hot Shot! Do you copy? Good job, Hot Shot. Now follow Laserbeak and get out of there, pronto.

Hot Shot: I gotcha. C’mon, buddy, let’s get outta here.

Alexis: Stay close to Perceptor, Hot Shot. He can lead you right to the Mini-Cons.

Rad: Aw, man. This is totally frustrating not being able to do anything to help them out.

Hot Shot: Hey ya guys, any word on how Starscream’s doing?

Alexis: No, we haven’t heard anything, Hot Shot. And to make matters worse, the blueprint he gave us of the base is completely different from the real thing.

Hot Shot: Ohh great. Ya got any other good news? Find ’em. C’mon.

Tidal Wave: Your journey ends here. No one passes Tidal Wave. Now I shall crush you. Very impressive.

Hot Shot: Hey ironhead, ya mind if I cut in?

Tidal Wave: You…

Hot Shot: Powerlink back up, guys. And go find the Mini-Cons! (VO) It’s time to put that old locomotive out of his misery. (Out loud) What? I didn’t even phase him.

Alexis: Guys! Guys, quick! Check out the monitor. You’re not gonna believe your eyes.

Kids: Whoaaa…

Rad: What the?

Carlos: Look, it’s the Mini-Cons.

Alexis: And Megatron is using them as slaves to build a…

Kids: Spaceship!

[Commercial]

Carlos: Aw, man. Look at all those Mini-Cons!

Rad: They’re all prisoners of Megatron. And he’s got them building some kinda ship for ‘im.

Alexis: We’ve gotta let Optimus know about this right away.

Megatron: Hahahaha. Ha, ha, ha, ha. That’s right, my miniature minions, keep up the good work. Oh! And look who’s here. Perceptor. How good of you to join my little pile of workers. What? Halt, bot! You’ll pay for disobeying me! Hahahaha! Struggle all you like, you little titanium toy, but you’re not going anywhere. Hahahaha! Hahahahaha! Ha, ha, ha, ha! I’m enjoying this. Heheheh… What’s happening? That music, why are they all making that irritating music?

Optimus: Where is that strange sound coming from?

Rad: Man, is this ever freaky.

Alexis: The Mini-Cons… They’re all — singing!

Carlos: It’s like they’re all reacting to Perceptor or something.

Alexis: Hey, remember? This happened once before.

Rad: Yeah, I remember. It was like all the Mini-Cons around the world were communicating with eachother using some kind of strange language. It was totally bizarre.

Alexis: This is the most beautiful sound I’ve ever heard in my life.

Megatron: Make them stop or I’ll destroy every last one of you. What? How dare you defy my orders. Every one of you, get back to work immediately! Understand? Now! Don’t you get it?! I absolutely uphoard any kind of insubordination! And all those who have chosen to disregard my orders have perished at my hand. Now you’ll pay!

Hot Shot: Aaaaaaahhhh! Hey, Mega-moron! If you’re looking for a fight, then bring it on!

Megatron: How dare you interfere with me!

Hot Shot: Okay, Jolt, go get ‘im!

Megatron: You are starting to annoy me, Autobot!

Hot Shot: Transform!

Megatron: Transform!

Tidal Wave: Must destroy Autobots. Tidal Wave destroy Autobots!

Hoist: Hey, lughead! Need a hand? With my new armour, I just keep going and going. Ow… Hahaha.

Tidal Wave: Thank you. Tidal Wave appreciates.

Sideswipe: He’s saying ‘form a line and file out of here one at a time.’ Hey guys! No pushing around and no buttin’ in!

Optimus: Hurry, Sideswipe. Keep them moving.

Carlos: Whoa, cool! We’re kicking Decepti-butt big time!

Alexis: Way to go, Perceptor! Way to save the Mini-Cons.

Rad: All right! Nothing like sweet victory.

Hot Shot: That’s — gonna leave a mark.

Megatron: Hahaha. Too bad your hard drive is about to crash for the last time.

Hot Shot: Sorry, pal. Not today! What?

Megatron: Hahahahaha. It seems you’re trapped… like a rat. This amuses me. Sayonara, Autobot. You! How dare you!

Starscream: You don’t scare me anymore, Megatron.

Megatron: S-starsc-ream. I always knew you’d be a traitor!

Starscream: And now I can fight evil!

Megatron: You moron. You don’t know what evil is.

Starscream: Hot Shot! Prepare to attack!

Hot Shot: You got it! Heh, heh, haha!

Optimus: Hot Shot! Starscream! Fall in, men. We’ve recovered the Mini-Cons, and it’s time to head home.

Hot Shot: All rightah! Did you just hear something?

Starscream: Probably… just the wind. You should head out.

Hot Shot: The wind?

Optimus: It’s time to pull out, Starscream.

Starscream: Ha! I’m not going anywhere!

Hot Shot: Huh?

Optimus: I just gave you a direct order, soldier.

Starscream: Errrgghh…

Optimus: I don’t have time for insubordination. Either you come with us now and prove you really are an Autobot or you stay behind and show your true colours. Now what’s it going to be, Starscream? It’s your choice.

Starscream: Errgggghh…

Optimus: Will you choose to return to Megatron’s fold, or will you continue to battle with the Autobots? Time is running out for your decision, Starscream. Choose. Will it be your heart or your programming? Autobot or Decepticon?

Kids: Hahahahahaha! Yeah!

Starscream: There is no right decision!

Optimus: Take your time, Starscream. Take your time.

[End]

Transformers: Armada
“Regeneration” – Episode 34
Written by Terry Klassen and Ward Perry
Transcription by Brandon Williams

–
Narrator: The war between the Autobots and the Decepticons rages on as they struggle to retrieve the prized Mini-Cons. The side who wins is the side that collects the most. And if the Decepticons prove victorious, then Megatron and his corrupt Mini-Cons control the universe. The Earth’s only chance for a peaceful cosmos is for Optimus Prime and the Autobots to destroy their enemy. Now, get ready for a new battle.

[Transition]

Rad (VO): Smokescreen gave his all in the battle to protect the Mini-Cons. And now, while the other Autobots keep watch by his bedside, Smokescreen prepares for the greatest fight he’ll ever face – the fight for his life.

[Transition]

Carlos: Hey, what is that thing?

Optimus: That’s the spark.

Rad: What’s the spark?

Scavenger: It’s what keeps us Transformers alive.

Alexis: So, it’s like your heart then?

Jetfire: Yeah, in human terms, I suppose you can say that.

Fred: You mean my heart looks like that?

Billy: Nah, I’m guessing yours is a lot smaller.

Fred: Aaahh…

Red Alert: Good. Optimus, I’ve got some great news on Smokescreen’s condition. His spark is in excellent shape.

Optimus: Excellent. And what about his armour?

Red Alert: Smokescreen’s body has been severely damaged. I’d say at least 90%. He’s banged up pretty badly, you know. But he still might pull through this whole mess… I hope.

Optimus: You mean… he might not recover?

Red Alert: I’m not sure if I have the skills to bring him back exactly the way he was before. But I’ll do my best, I promise.

Optimus: We’re counting on you, Red Alert.

Red Alert: C’mon… Hang in there, Smokescreen. I know you can make it. You’re a real fighter, old buddy.

Hot Shot: Errggghh… Man! Megatron’s gonna pay for what he did to Smokescreen! C’mon, Sideswipe. Let’s go get ‘im.

Sideswipe: Uhhh… Sure. Where?

Megatron: Hahahahaha! Hahahahaha! The Requiem Blaster. It won’t be long before the whole universe is mine. And now that I have the Blaster, there’ll be no one to stop me. I owe it all to you, Thrust. You’ve done very well this time. And you will be rewarded for your efforts.

Thrust: Oh, thank you, sir.

Megatron: You have earned the right to call yourself a Decepticon warrior.

Cyclonus: No fair! We did all the work!

Demolishor: Yeah! How dare he take all the credit for himself.

Cyclonus & Demolishor: Huh?

Thrust: Huh?

Wheeljack: Uhh?

Megatron: Well, Starscream. You’re still alive. I suppose congratulations are in order.

Thrust: Yes, what a relief it is to see you. We were awfully worried, Starscream. What do you think you’re doing?

Starscream: You double-crossed me.

Thrust: What — what are you talking about?

Starscream: Why did you close the warp gate on me? You did that on purpose.

Thrust: No! You’ve got it wrong. I didn’t abandon you. There was a change in plans. I had to do it, honest! You would have done the same thing!

Starscream: I won’t listen to your lies anymore, Thrust!

Wheeljack: Oh no! Thrust is getting thrashed on.

Cyclonus: Ehh, I don’t really care.

Demolishor: Yeah, he deserves it, too.

Megatron: Starscream! That is quite enough.

Starscream: Yes, sir.

Megatron: I always knew that you were able to find your way back here. You’re a good warrior. Now stop all this bickering and go fix that damaged body of yours.

Starscream: ‘Sir.

Megatron: All of you, go back to your quarters and get some rest. It will be a busy day tomorrow.

[Commercial]

Starscream: There’s no need to worry about me! These injuries are nothing. I’ll be as good as new in no time. You three have also been damaged. This energy bath will fix you up. There, you see, isn’t that better? So what are you doing here?

Demolishor: Getting the Star Saber sword.

Starscream: What! There’s no way I’ll do that. Megatron entrusted these Mini-Cons to me and I —

Demolishor: — Megatron’s orders! If you have any complaints, you can talk to him yourself.

Starscream: All right, then. I’ll take these Mini-Cons to him directly.

Demolishor: No you can’t! He ordered me to bring them to him. Hmmm? Ohhh… Yeah… You take ’em.

Megatron: Hahaha… I can’t blame Starscream for being upset. He has been through a lot lately, hasn’t he?

Thrust: Yes, of course. But, uh, he brought it on himself, Megatron, sir.

Megatron: That’s true, Thrust. He sure gave you a beating. Can’t you take better care of yourself?

Thrust: Oh, he’s nothing I can’t handle. And — it was a small price to pay to put the Requiem Blaster back in your hands. It is the duty of a loyal Decepticon.

Megatron: I’m glad you feel that way, but I believe I might have underestimated Starscream. After all, he has brought the Star Saber back to me. So perhaps he will prove to be more valuable to us than I originally thought.

Thrust: Hmmm… Perhaps. Uh. I suppose I shouldn’t have left him at the warp gate. That was the one mistake a made in carrying out your plan. Heh, heh, heh.

Megatron: Hahaha…

Thrust: Well, at least we know who we’ll send in first the next time we run into the Autobots. Heh. Yes, I agree, sir. We should keep Starscream around a little longer. Hahaha.

Megatron: Poor Starscream doesn’t have a clue to what he’s gotten himself into, does he?

Thrust: I have so much to learn from you, sir. I admire your ability to be so cold, even if it means sacrificing one of your own men.

Megatron: Well, how else am I supposed to keep the Decepticons in line, let alone conquer the entire universe! Hahahahaha…

Thrust: Hahahahahahaha… Yes! Yes!

Megatron & Thrust: Huh?

Megatron: Is that you over there, Starscream?

Starscream: Why you…! Runway, Sonar, Jetstorm, pam! Powerlink! Star Saber sword!

Megatron: What?! What are you doing?!

Thrust: It’s a rebellion! Starscream is starting a rebellion! Run before it’s too late!

Starscream: Narrow Beam Cannon, fire!

Demolishor: What’s going on?

Thrust: It’s Starscream! He’s a traitor! What are you doing? Don’t let him get away!

Starscream: You haven’t seen the last of me, Megatron! All right. This is it. I’ll get them. Even if I have to join the Autobots.

Megatron: You wouldn’t dare. Starscream! I have always been suspicious of you. I know you’d like nothing better to defeat me, and take control of the Decepticons. But I won’t let that happen. Now hand over the Star Saber. You’re not a leader. You couldn’t handle the responsibility. Look what’s happened to you. You don’t even know it, but you’ve been taken over by your own emotions.

Starscream: Whaddya mean, ‘taken over by my emotions?’ You can think whatever you want, Megatron. I don’t care anymore!

Megatron: Really? You don’t care. Then good riddance! Yes, it’s true the Star Saber sword is quite impressive, but I doubt it can handle this.

Thrust: Megatron! Don’t do it! You’ll blow the whole base apart!

Starscream: Narrow Beam Cannons! Transform!

Megatron: Get him! And bring back the Star Saber sword!

Hot Shot: Yeah, great. Let’s go kick some Decepti-butts.

Sideswipe: Hey, could ya wait for me, bro?

Jetfire: That’s strange…

Optimus: What is it, Jetfire?

Jetfire: Hot Shot and Sideswipe have headed out on their own. I dunno why they’d do something like that.

Scavenger: Hot Shot wants to get revenge.

Carlos: Yeah! Go get ’em!

Billy: Yeah, it’s payback time for Smokescreen!

Fred: And freedom!

Blurr: We should get out there, Optimus.

Optimus: No. Wait a minute. Look at the monitor.

Alexis: It’s a chase. And that’s Starscream.

Scavenger: It doesn’t look like a decoy strategy, either.

Optimus: Hmmm…

[Commercial]

Starscream: Aaaaahhh! Aaaaahhh! Runway, Sonar, Jetstorm, stay with me.

Hot Shot: I’m not waiting for anyone. I’m gonna get revenge for Smokescreen.

Sideswipe: I’m ready to do this, thanks to your special training, bro. Let’s roll! Transform!

Hot Shot: Transform!

Starscream: Leave me alone. You don’t want to get caught up in this.

Hot Shot: You’re the one that’s caught, pal.

Starscream: Here he comes! Get down! You’ve got to get outta here!

Sideswipe: …Bro?

Hot Shot: Come back here! Erggghh!

Tidal Wave: Transform!

Hot Shot: Sideswipe, you go after Starscream. I’ll take care of this monster, okay?

Sideswipe: Okay! C’mere!

Hot Shot: Hey Jolt! Powerlink and transform!

Tidal Wave: Heh, heh!

Hot Shot: What, not even a scratch? Well let’s see how he likes this!

Sideswipe: I’ve gotcha now!

Tidal Wave: Must get Starscream.

Optimus: Jetfire, let’s link-up.

Jetfire: Roger.

Optimus: Powerlink! Transform!

Hot Shot: Whoaaa…

Starscream: I’ve got to help him… Optimus!

Hot Shot: Hey Optimus! Behind you!

Tidal Wave: The Star Saber…

Optimus: Thank you, Starscream.

Scavenger: You mean, Megatron actually abandoned you and tried to destroy you?

Starscream: It’s true.

Hot Shot: Yeah, right. You can’t actually believe this guy. He’s a Decepticon, remember? C’mon!

Scavenger: Quiet, Hot Shot!

Hot Shot: Have you forgotten that Megatron’ll use any dirty trick he can to defeat us?

Sideswipe: Anyone figured out what to do with this guy yet?

Scavenger: He risked his life to get away from the Decepticons. It wouldn’t be fair to send him back there.

Blurr: We have no choice. We’ll have to protect him, then.

Hot Shot: Wait a minute! What do you mean, ‘protect him?’ It’s because of creeps like him, Smokescreen’s in the shape he’s in now! He doesn’t deserve any special treatment from us. We should get rid of him right now!

Jetfire: I understand how you feel, Hot Shot. I’ll never forget what the Decepticons have done to our friend Smokescreen. But Starscream’s situation is different. He was double-crossed by Megatron and he almost paid the ultimate price because of it.

Hot Shot: I still don’t trust this guy. Let’s not forget Starscream betrayed the other Decepticons, too. He’s no better than Megatron. And it’s only a matter of time before he pulls one of his dirty tricks on us!

Sideswipe: Yeah!

Hot Shot: Remember Sideways?

Starscream: Don’t lump me together with him. We’re not the same.

Scavenger: I can just imagine what you think of me.

Hot Shot: Uh… well, you’re different, Scavenger. You’re just different.

Starscream: All right, then. Let’s go.

Blurr: Where are you going?

Starscream: If none of you are going to trust me, then there’s no point in hanging around here… I guess I’ll just have to go and fight Megatron on my own.

Alexis: You don’t have to leave. I think I can trust you, Starscream.

Carlos: Huh?

Rad: Yeah, me too. Look how upset Runway is over this whole thing. I think the Mini-Cons would never normally act like that.

Jetfire: What do you think we should do, Optimus?

Optimus: All right! From now on, we consider Starscream part of our team.

Hot Shot: Aw, you can’t be serious! Aww…

Starscream: I won’t let any of you down, I promise. And I think I have something to offer that might be of interest. It has something to do with the Decepticon base. Analyze my data, and you’ll be able to sneak into the Decepticons’ camp.

Hot Shot: Yeah, yeah.

Jetfire: All right then. Let’s get to work on that data.

Sideswipe: I’d like to help out too. I may not be the strongest fighter, but I do know a little bit about codes and how to break ’em. So whaddya say?

Jetfire: Sure, we could really use skills like that.

Hot Shot: Sideswipe, not you too.

Sideswipe: What’s wrong?

Hot Shot: I’m not finished with you yet, Starscream.

Red Alert: Mmmmm….

Hot Shot: I think you know why I called you out here.

Starscream: Mmm. You’ve got a grudge against me.

Hot Shot: Well that’s puttin’ it lightly.

Starscream: I can understand why you don’t trust me, but I really do despise Megatron now. But if you wanna fight, bring it on.

Jetfire: This is hard work. So far we’ve only been able to analyze about 20% of Starscream’s data.

Sideswipe: Well, these codes are all new to me, but I’m doing the best I can to decipher them.

Optimus: What’s the matter, Runway? I thought you were helping Starscream repair his damages.

Rad: Huh? What?! Hot Shot and Starscream are fighting right now?

Blurr: Hot Shot should learn how to cool off.

Jetfire: I was wondering why we hadn’t seen him around for a while.

Sideswipe: Hey, I bet I know what he’s doing.

Alexis: Why are we just standing here? We have to do something.

Jetfire: Well maybe we should just let them work it out.

Sideswipe: It will be hard to stop my bro.

Jetfire: Maybe Hot Shot will listen to you, Sideswipe.

Sideswipe: Of course he will, but I’m not a referee.

Alexis: Well if somebody doesn’t do something, then I will.

Jetfire: No, no, Alexis. There’s no need for that. We’ll go. Huh?

Optimus: Red Alert… How’s Smokescreen doing?

Red Alert: He’s okay. But I wasn’t able to regenerate his normal body, Optimus.

Hot Shot: Who’s out there? Would ya leave us alone?

Starscream: You…

Hot Shot: Transform!

Hoist: Eryah!

Hot Shot: Transform!

Starscream: You…

Hot Shot: Hey, c’mon, would you back off? I’m trying to avenge my friend here. I won’t be long.

Hoist: So who is this friend of yours, huh?

Hot Shot: Whoa, that can’t be who I think it is. It is! It’s Smokescreen!

Hoist: Hey! How ya doin’, little buddy?

Hot Shot: Uh, Smokescreen, what happened to your body?

Optimus: He’s been through some changes.

Hot Shot: Optimus? Red Alert? What’s going on here?

Optimus: Let me to introduce you to the new and improved Smokescreen.

Red Alert: Luckily, Smokescreen’s internal spark could be saved. But I had to give his body a complete overhaul.

Hot Shot: Yeah, I can see that.

Hoist: Sorry for barging in on your little skirmish, but I thought I’d come here and test out my new armour. See how it works in a real battle.

Hot Shot: Y’know, you coulda given me a little warning.

Hoist: Hey Hot Shot… I really appreciate what you were trying to do for me, but as you can see, I’m back and I’m better than ever. So there’s no need for you two to fight anymore. Optimus filled me in about the details about Starscream and the fact that you were sticking up for me, makes me feel a whole lot better.

Starscream: We’ll have to settle our differences another time…

Hoist: No, you’re on our side now, so you’ll just have to get along.

Hot Shot: All right…

Jetfire: We finally finished analyzing the data we took off Starscream.

Sideswipe: Optimus, sir. The data’s co-ordinates have been entered into the warp gate.

Optimus: Hmmm.

Jetfire: Once we go through the warp gate, you all know where we’ll be, right?

Scavenger: In the Decepticons’ base.

Optimus: All right, Autobots! Let’s do it.

[End]

Transformers: Armada
“Sacrifice” – Episode 33
Written by Terry Klassen and Ward Perry
Transcription by Brandon Williams

–
Narrator: The war between the Autobots and the Decepticons rages on as they struggle to retrieve the prized Mini-Cons. The side who wins is the side that collects the most. And if the Decepticons prove victorious, then Megatron and his corrupt Mini-Cons control the universe. The Earth’s only chance for a peaceful cosmos is for Optimus Prime and the Autobots to destroy their enemy. Now, get ready for a new battle.

[Transition]

Megatron: Hmmm… So, we have no other choice, Thrust?

Thrust: None, Megatron, sir.

Megatron: Are you sure?

Thrust: Very sure.

Megatron: Then, our only means of attack against the Autobots — is a direct one.

Thrust: Yessir. To ensure your victory, it’s our only option.

Megatron: Aaaaahhh…

Thrust: And according to my little plan, they’ll come to us. So, we must prepare for battle, sir.

Megatron: Yes, and soon the Requiem Blaster will be mine. We must give them a warm Decepticon… welcome.

Thrust: As you wish. It shall be done, sir.

Megatron: Let’s go. But I warn you, if you fail this time, it will be your last.

Thrust: Yessir, I fully understand. And it won’t be long now ’til victory shall be yours! I can feel it.

Megatron: Heh, heh, heh. Heh, heh, heh, heh, heh. Hahahahahaha!

[Transition]

Rad (VO): Hi. This is Rad. And let me set up the situation. Y’see, the Autobots were mysteriously informed that the Decepticons were out in the jungle. But what they didn’t know is, they were walking right into a trap.

Jetfire: I don’t know about you guys, but I don’t get a good feeling about this.

Scavenger: I really don’t care how you feel, Jetfire, just keep your eyes peeled, understand?

Hot Shot: So how come we didn’t bring the Requiem Blaster?

Blurr: Would you keep it quiet, Hot Shot!

Hot Shot: Hey! I’m just askin’.

Jetfire: How long do we have to wait out here? This humidity’s killing my circuits.

Optimus: A good soldier is patient, Jetfire.

Jetfire: Yeah, yeah…

Rad (VO): You couldn’t blame anyone for being anxious. After all, the last time Optimus Prime went up against Megatron, he nearly lost the battle. And if it wasn’t for three new Mini-Cons coming together to form the Requiem Blaster, the Autobots would be history right now and the Decepticons would rule the universe. The downside was, we discovered the Mini-Cons didn’t exactly like being used as weapons.

Smokescreen: Oh, please. Would you all just calm down and relax? Even on the off-chance the Decepticons find our base, we’re here to look after you little guys. Infact, Optimus himself put me in direct charge of protecting you. Which means you have absolutely nothing to worry about, little guys. Huh? Okay, I don’t have a clue what you’re saying, but let me explain it to you in plain English again, okay? I promise you have nothing at all to worry about! Hahahahahaha! You little guys crack me up.

Rad: Carlos, we can’t make the Mini-Cons fight.

Carlos: But we have to, Rad!

Alexis: I think you two missed what Optimus was saying. Y’see, the Decepticons know we have the Requiem Blaster, right? They don’t know where, but they know we have it. And that means…

Jetfire: …The enemy will be too afraid to try anything rash because they know we have the ultimate weapon. And we might even be able to win without firing a single shot!

Hot Shot: But what if… What if they realize we have no intention of using it?

Scavenger: Because everyone here is going to keep their little yaps shut, that’s how.

Blurr: Yeah.

Hot Shot: I sure hope you’re right.

Scavenger: I’m sure Optimus knew what he was doing when he came up with this plan. Otherwise, he would have never left the three Requiem Mini-Cons back at the base.

Hot Shot: Well, I still don’t like it, guys.

Jetfire: Neither do I. I mean, look at us! We’re like sitting ducks out here.

Rad: It’s locked on! And it’s Starscream!

Jetfire: It looks like we got company, boys…

Hot Shot: I see him!

Optimus: Don’t fire!

Hot Shot: Huh?

Optimus: Let’s let him make the first move.

Starscream: Transform!

Hot Shot: Look! The Star Saber!

Jetfire: Why does he have it?

Starscream: Here I come, Autobots! You’re all mine! So come out from your hiding places, you cowards, and face — the most powerful — Decepticon — in the universe!

Jetfire: Boy, he sure doesn’t have a self-image problem, now does he?

Sideswipe: What is he thinking, there’s no way he can take us all on.

Hot Shot: Well I’d say he’s just an idiot.

Optimus: He’s not being cocky. With the Star Saber, Starscream truly believes he’s invincible.

Hot Shot: So it’s like I said! The creep’s an idiot.

Starscream: I haven’t got all day. If you’re not coming out on your own, then I’ll just flush you out! Ugh!

Optimus: Move out, men.

Autobots: Yessir.

Starscream: Show yourselves, Autobots.

Megatron: Why are they not coming out? Wasn’t that part of your plan?

Thrust: Patience, Megatron. Soon the heat will become so intense that they’ll come out like frightened mice. And they’ll be forced to use the Requiem Blaster.

Starscream: Hello! I’m still waiting over here.

Optimus: I think it’s time to bring him down.

Jetfire: All right. Let’s do this, guys. Transform!

Optimus: Jet Optimus, transform!

Demolishor: I’ve locked onto one of them, and it appears to be Optimus, sir.

Megatron: Excellent. Shockwave, after him.

Tidal Wave: Yes, Megatron!

Demolishor: Just hang on a minute, Megatron, sir. It appears Optimus doesn’t have the Requiem Blaster with him.

Megatron: What’s that? Then the others must have it down there. Shockwave, flush those cretins out of the forest.

Tidal Wave: Yesss, Megatron!

Megatron: Once we’ve located the Blaster, I’ll personally finish this little battle. But right now, our focus must be on finding it, so tell Starscream to get to work or else suffer my wrath.

Thrust: I’m on it, sir.

Blurr: Great. It’s just Mini-Cons firing at us.

Hot Shot: Yeah, but it still stings pretty good.

Blurr: C’mon. Let’s go!

Hot Shot: Huh?

Demolishor: As far as I can tell, neither Hot Shot or Blurr have the Blaster, either.

Thrust: What about Scavenger or Smokescreen?

Demolishor: Uh, I’m not talking to you, eraserhead. I’m talking to Megatron. So butt out, will you?

Megatron: You mind your rank, Demolishor.

Demolishor: Oohh…

Megatron: Now keep looking. We have a mission to accomplish.

Thrust: I quite agree, Megatron, sir. And I’m confident we’ll find the Requiem Blaster. Isn’t that right, Demolishor?! Are you even listening to me?

Demolishor: Huh?

Megatron: Would you please concentrate, Demolishor? We have business to attend to.

Demolishor: Uhh, yes, sir. Right!

Thrust: What a moron!

Megatron: Hmmm… I wonder what Starscream is doing down there.

Thrust: Uhhh, fighting — Optimus?

Megatron: That fool! I told him to leave Optimus for me! Is it me, or can’t anyone around here follow a simple order! The reason why I gave that simpleton the Star Saber sword was to draw the Autobots out into the open — so they’d be forced to use the Requiem Blaster against us. Now that mutant thinks that he can defeat Prime all by himself!

Starscream: It looks like that this is your final showdown, Optimus Prime. Heh!

Optimus: I don’t think so, Starscream.

Starscream: Not against this!

Rad: Would someone please tell me what’s going on?

Carlos: Man, we can’t see a thing through this rain.

Thrust: Hmmm… Something is just not right here. Why don’t they attack? They have the power to turn this battle around, but yet they’re hiding like scared children. Transform!

Megatron: Now what?

Thrust: I’m going in for a look, Megatron, sir.

Megatron: Hmmm….

Alexis: Uh, Fred, do you mind?

Fred: Sorry.

Rad: Hey, how come our monitor crashed? Ohhh… Look! I think someone’s messing around with the camera, guys!

Carlos: Aww, this is starting to get freaky.

Fred: Guys. Look. Look! Look!

Red Alert: Huh? Let me check. The switcher must be on the fritz.

Rad: Huh?

Red Alert: It’s not responding.

Sideways: Hahahaha… Surprise.

Red Alert: Sideways!

Sideways: Hahahahaha… Hahahahahaha!

[Commercial]

Starscream: Go ahead and make your move, Optimus. Unless of course you’re afraid of the Star Saber!

Optimus: You don’t get it, do you?
[
Starscream: Uhhh, get… what?

Optimus: All right, you defeat me. Then what happens? Have you really thought it through, Starscream?

Starscream: Then the Decepticons win. What’s your point? Oh, I get it now, Optimus Prime. You’re just stalling me for more time. Well, to answer your question, when I win, it’s the end of you pathetic Autobots. And Megatron will rule the universe like it should be! We Decepticons have always been at war against you, and now it ends here — with your defeat!

Optimus: This isn’t about you and me, it’s about control over the Mini-Cons — who have no interest in fighting — on either side.

Starscream: Nonsense. The Mini-Cons are mere pawns in this war, and you know it! I’ve had enough of your lies! It’s time to end this once and for all! You’re going down!

Thrust: Transform!

Sideways: There shall never be peace in this universe. There must always be war.

Thrust: Uh, ah… Who — who said that?

Sideways: Heheheheheh…

Thrust: Ah, Sideways, yeah. I should’ve known. Wait a minute, was that really him or was it all in my head? That’s it! It was just a hallucination! Ha, ha! All right. Time to put a stop to Starscream. He’s playing way over his head. Transform!

Megatron: Where in the world’s my Blaster!

Optimus: Does nothing sink into your thick skull?

Starscream: Is that the best you can do, Prime? This is gonna be easier than I thought!

Optimus: My mission is to liberate the Mini-Cons, and they make up the Star Saber.

Starscream: Then come and get it!

Optimus: Forget the Mini-Cons!

Starscream: Enough talking! Let’s finish this! It’s over, Optimus! What? Runway! Sonar! Jetstorm! What’s going on here?! I’m your master! You stupid Mini-Cons, I command you to attack!

Optimus: I told you. The Mini-Cons weren’t built to fight.

Starscream: Don’t worry, I’ll get it to work. But first I’ll finish you off. Shockwave, Cyclonus, I could use a little help over here! Come on already! Would you guys please hurry up! I’m on the verge of winning this entire war all by myself! Heh, heh, heh, heh. You finally made it, Cyclonus. Huh?!

Hot Shot: Sorry for the interruption, Starscream, but we were in the neighbourhood and thought we’d drop by.

Starscream: But where’s — my guys?

Sideswipe: You’re not gonna believe this, Starscream, but you’re the only Decepticon around here. I guess all your buddies packed up and decided to go home.

Blurr: Oh well. I suppose that means it’s you against us.

Starscream: I don’t believe a word of this. You’re just messing with my head. Aren’t you?

Scavenger: So why would we do that? If anyone was messing with your head, I would have to guess it would be that bonehead boss of yours, Megatron.

Hot Shot: I wouldn’t wanna be in your shoes right now, Starscream. Haha.

Starscream: You’re lying. You’re trying to intimidate me. But it won’t work. Never! Shockwave! Thrust! Cyclonus! Megatron! Demolishor! Anybody! Huhhh, huhhh…. Why have you all abandoned me?!

Rad: Optimus, we’re in big trouble! Megatron’s attacking the base!

Optimus: What?!

Alexis: And Sideways is back!

Hot Shot: Are you sure?

Alexis: The secruity system never even detected them.

Carlos: Yeah, and they know where Smokescreen is too!

Scavenger: Oh no…

Sideswipe: This whole thing was just a diversion. Megatron planned to attack the base all along!

Hot Shot: So I guess we weren’t kidding when we said they ditched Starscream.

Optimus: We’ve got to get back to the base.

Autobots: Yessir!

Starscream: Huh? Aaaaaahhhh! Huhh… Why have you abandoned me, Megatron?! Why?! Why?! Whhhhhhyyyy?!

[Transition]

Sideswipe: Boy, did they ever trash this place.

Hot Shot: Hello, can anyone hear me in here?!

Fred: Yeah, and we’re down here, Hot Shot!

Billy: I thought they’d never show up…

Blurr: Are you boys all right?

Fred: Just hungry.

Billy: Red Alert told us we should hide inside here.

Rad: It was amazing. The Decepticons knew everything about our secruity.

Alexis: Yeah, because of Sideways.

Blurr: That traitor.

Scavenger: So where is Red Alert?

Carlos: No clue, Scavenger. He just showed us where to hide and then he just took off.

Hot Shot: First thing we have to do is find him. Sideswipe, you look after the kids.

Sideswipe: No problem. You can count on me.

Scavenger: C’mon, men. There’s no time to waste.

Smokescreen: Okay, just remember to keep quiet and everything will be all right. I’m not letting anyone get to your little guys, you got it? But you have to follow my instructions to the letter. Okay? Whoa, c’mon you guys, I told you to keep it down. Hey, for the first time, I think I understood every single word you said to me. Hahahaha! Megatron!

Megatron: Ah, yes. There’s those naughty little Requiem Blaster Mini-Cons.

Smokescreen: Hmmm?

Thrust: I have a suggestion, Megatron. If the Autobot hands over the Mini-Cons, we let him go. But if he resists… well, uh, I’ll leave his fate in your hands. Heh, heh.

Smokescreen: No deal, Deceptiscum! Optimus ordered me to protect them at all costs, Megatron. And that’s what I’m gonna do!

Megatron: Bad decision! Now you must pay for your blind allegiance to that pathetic Optimus Prime.

Smokescreen: Bring it on.

Cyclonus: Hahahahahaha!

Red Alert: I’m sorry.

Scavenger: It’s okay. You held them off as long as you could. But now we’re here to help.

Red Alert: They overpowered me, Scavenger. For a while there, I thought I could hold my own. But then… Now what?

Scavenger: I don’t know.

Optimus: We fight back.

Red Alert: Optimus, sir! You’re back!

Jetfire: Time to do some damage.

Smokescreen: Aaaaaaahhhh!

Autobots: Huh?

Megatron: I don’t have time to play games, you annoying little Autobot. Now get out of my way! Because I believe those three Mini-Cons are mine.

Optimus: Smokescreen…

Megatron: Ha, ha. I could never have imagined victory was going to be this easy.

Autobots: Smokescreen!

Hot Shot: Megatron is gonna pay for this.

Megatron: You talk pretty tough, kid. But can you back it up?

Carlos: Oh no! They’ve got the Requiem Blaster!

Megatron: You know, when I think about it, it always amazes me how three harmless Mini-Cons can transform into such a powerful weapon of mass destruction. Three innocent androids. And they alone are about to change the course of history forever. Hahahhaha! This war is over!

Smokescreen: Not if I can help it!

Megatron: Ha, ha, ha. What?

Smokescreen: If you think this war is over, Megatron, you’re sadly mistaken, because I’m only getting warmed up.

Hot Shot: Smokescreen!

Megatron: Heh, heh, heh.

Smokescreen: Aaaahh? AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH! Aaaaaaaaaahhhhh!

Megatron: Incredible… I’ve never seen another weapon like it — in my entire life! Now it’s your turn, Optimus Prime!

Smokescreen: Not so fast! Ughh… ohh…

Megatron: Huh?

Optimus: Smokescreen!

Smokescreen: Ah, oh… Ahh… ughh… Ahhh.. Errrgghh…

Decepticons: Ooohhhh….

Thrust: Uhh, ahh. Megatron, sir, might I suggest we make a hasty retreat? Seeing as you have what we came for… uhhh…

Megatron: Yes. An excellent suggestion, Thrust.

Smokescreen: Noooooooooo….

Megatron: Hurry men, retreat!

Smokescreen: Ughh, ohh… ugh…

Optimus: Smokescreen!

Hot Shot: We’ve gotta — huh?

Rad: Smokescreen…

Optimus: Okay… Now take it easy, soldier.

Smokescreen: I tried… ugh… to protect the Mini-Cons for you, sir.

Optimus: I know.

Smokescreen: Ugh…

Optimus: We’ll never forget you, soldier. NNNNOOOOOOOOO!

Rad: This was the first time I had ever seen Optimus show so much emotion. I realize now — even Autobots can feel pain. And for the first time, I understood that this battle was personal. And he was out for revenge… At any price.

[End]

Transformers: Armada
“Past II” – Episode 32
Written by Terry Klassen and Ward Perry
Transcription by Brandon Williams

–
Narrator: The war between the Autobots and the Decepticons rages on as they struggle to retrieve the prized Mini-Cons. The side who wins is the side that collects the most. And if the Decepticons prove victorious, then Megatron and his corrupt Mini-Cons control the universe. The Earth’s only chance for a peaceful cosmos is for Optimus Prime and the Autobots to destroy their enemy. Now, get ready for a new battle.

[Transition]

Wheeljack: When I saw a figure approaching through the flames, I thought it was you, Hot Shot. But I was wrong.

Hot Shot: No! No! It was Megatron!

Wheeljack: Yes it was. It’s because of him that I’m standing right here.

Sideswipe: Erghh…

Wheeljack: I’ve come to get my revenge. So, are you ready? You never should have left me out there.

Hot Shot: Don’t do this.

Wheeljack: Save your breath. You’ll need it.

Hot Shot: Awwrghh!

Wheeljack: It’s done. I’m sorry.

Hot Shot: Why Wheeljack? …Why?

[Transition]

Hot Shot (VO): What is this place? What happened? Where am I?

Sideswipe: Huh? Hot Shot! Can you hear me?

Hot Shot: Sideswipe?

Sideswipe: Take it easy, Hot Shot. Everything’s gonna be all right. When I came to, the Decepticons were gone. You were in rough shape so I carried you back to the base as fast as I could. You’re in intensive care now.

Hot Shot: Wheeljack. Err, hey!

Sideswipe: Hey, take it easy. You shouldn’t really be moving around.

Blurr: He was shot from close range, so he’s pretty badly damaged. Luckily, all of his major systems are still functioning. Whoever it was who did this to Hot Shot, wasn’t a particularly skilled marksman.

Optimus: Huh? Are you sure of that, Blurr?

Hot Shot: He was my friend. Even after all this, I still think of him the same way.

Sideswipe: But he hunted us down. If he was your friend, then why would he do that to you? He’s just like all the other Decepticons!

Hot Shot: …He’s not. He can’t be like one of them. No!

Sideswipe: You must’ve forgot. Hot Shot, try to remember that battle on Cybertron when you and Wheeljack were seperated from the rest of your platoon.

[Flashback]

Hot Shot: Wheeljack! I’m going for help! Wait right here.

Wheeljack: Come back, Hot Shot! Don’t leave me here.

Hot Shot: Please, Wheeljack. I promise I’ll come back.

Wheeljack: No… don’t leave me…

Platoon Leader: You’re not going anywhere now, Hot Shot! The unit is more important than a single soldier.

Hot Shot: But Wheeljack… Wheeljack!

[End Flashback]

Optimus: It was after that incident on Cybertron that I felt it was necessary to take Hot Shot under my direct command.

Blurr: So Hot Shot’s friend was an Autobot like us, then?

Optimus: That’s right, Blurr. I think that’s why it’s such a painful memory for him. And unfortunately, he seems to be suffering through it all over again. Hot Shot has a disturbing past. And the only way he’s going to erase those bad memories from his mind is if he confronts them head on. And he’s got to do it himself.

Blurr: Ugh?

Sideswipe: It’s not your fault, Hot Shot. You did everything you could for Wheeljack. It was standard procedure for your platoon leader to stop you from going into that inferno. You didn’t abandon anyone, you were just following orders. Listen, you’ve gotta stop being so hard on yourself.

Hot Shot: You’re wrong. There’s no excuse for leaving Wheeljack out on the battlefield.

Sideswipe: No excuse?

Hot Shot: I was wrong… I should never have left Wheeljack’s side. I should have stayed with him. Even if it meant we both wouldn’t make it out. Autobots always stick together, and I forgot that.

Sideswipe: Hot Shot…

Hot Shot: I guess I was only thinking about myself. I was going for help but I ended up putting Wheeljack in an even worse situation. I can’t believe I left him standing alone in those flames when he needed me most. I discovered my true self in that inferno. I came face-to-face with the dark side of my character.

[Flashback]

Hot Shot: No, Wheeljack! (Out of clip) I knew there wasn’t much time, so I made a decision.

Platoon Leader: Hot Shot, come back! Get back here! That’s an order, Hot Shot! Stop, Hot Shot! I’ll have you court marshalled! If I were you, I’d think very closely of what my next move is going to be. If you insist on disobeying my orders, I’ll have discharged so fast, your head will spin. Do you underst–

Hot Shot: — I understand, sir. (Out of clip) I knew I was probably too late to save Wheeljack, but at the time, trying to get to him was the only thing I could think of. I couldn’t bare the thought of leaving an Autobot in that kind of danger. So whatever it was gonna take, I was at least gonna try and get to him. (In clip) Wheeljack!

[End Flashback]

Hot Shot: I passed out from the heat of the fire, and the next thing I remember is waking up back in the base. I survived, but there was no sign of Wheeljack. I can barely describe the torment I felt inside. My body was in pain, but it was my heart that hurt the most. I had let my friend down, and for that I will never forgive myself. I couldn’t get the last memory of Wheeljack’s face out of my mind.

Wheeljack (flashback): No! Don’t leave me.

Blurr: I still don’t understand why Hot Shot’s friend would intentionally shoot him at point blank range.

Optimus: Hmmm… It’s a bit drastic, but maybe he thought it was the only way to settle things between them. I’m just worried that if Hot Shot was in Wheeljack’s situation, he might do the same thing. That would go against everything I’ve tried to teach him.

Blurr: This Wheeljack sounds like a real loose cannon. I think we’d better keep an eye on him, Optimus.

Sideswipe: Optimus! Hot Shot is gone!

Blurr: Huh?

Sideswipe: He just got up and — disappeared!

Optimus: What?!

Thrust: Heh, heh, heh. So, an Autobot is out for a little drive on his own, is he?

Hot Shot: I’ve got company… Leave me alone!

Thrust: I wonder what’s clogging up his tailpipe. Boy, those Autobots sure are a moody bunch.

Sideswipe: I’ve got nothing. I can’t contact him.

Blurr: Maybe he’s gone to make peace with Wheeljack?

Optimus: I certainly hope not.

[Transition]

Carlos: Y’know, Rad, I don’t know if those guys should be playing with the Mini-Cons like they’re toys.

Rad: Ah, I know, Carlos. But it’s good for the Mini-Cons to get some training while the Autobots are out.

Billy: Yeah! All right!

Fred: We got him!

Billy: We got him!

Fred: Better than chilli dogs!

Carlos: Man, I can’t believe it. Even Alexis is hooked on that game.

Rad: Yeah. Is that normal?

Hot Shot: This is the place. Wheeljack should be in here somewhere. Transform!

Wheeljack: Does this bring back memories for you?

Hot Shot: Huh? Hello, Wheeljack.

Wheeljack: At one time, this was once an impressive facility. Too bad it’s no more than a discarded piece of junk now. It seems like such a terrible waste, doesn’t it?

Hot Shot: Yeah, it does.

Wheeljack: Yes, it’s good to see you again. I think we have a lot to discuss now, don’t we, Hot Shot? We might think we are different from the humans of this planet, but we share one thing in common – warfare. As long as I can remember, the Transformers have always been at war. And with the arrival of the Mini-Cons, there will be more battles, and we’ll always be warriors. However… We are not the same.

Hot Shot: Hmmm?

Wheeljack: When we fought together, you knew me as an Autobot. But now my allegiance is with the Decepticons. You were once my comrade in battle, but everything changed the day you left me in that fire on Cybertron. Our friendship is over. It ends today.

Hot Shot: …Yeah, I know.

Wheeljack: Heh. Well, at least we can still agree on something. Are you ready, Hot Shot?

Hot Shot: Errr…

Wheeljack: Only one of us will walk away from this place. And I guarantee that it’s going to be me, and not you.

[Commercial]

Blurr: Sideswipe, any shot of Hot Shot yet?

Sideswipe: Nothing. No sign of him. And maybe he’s been kidnapped! I sure hope he’s okay.

Wheeljack: You know the rules, Hot Shot. There are none. It’s just me and you. A no-holds-barred fight to the finish. Ha! You’re so pathetic. You’re still hung up on the past, aren’t you? Well that’s not gonna stop me from shutting you down, Hot Shot. You’re mine now!

Hot Shot: Huh?! Aaaah!

Wheeljack: Aaaahh!

Hot Shot: Aaaah! Ugh.

Wheeljack: Heh, heh, heh, heh, heh.

Hot Shot: Ugghh…. Ugh.

Wheeljack: Heh, heh, heh. Hang on, you’re not even trying, are you? You could at least try and make and effort. C’mon, get up! On your feet! Good.

Hot Shot: Ugh!

Wheeljack: That’s it! Fight back!

Hot Shot: Huh?

Thrust: Hahahahaha! That… is one sorry looking Autobot. I can’t believe a punch like that nearly put him out of commission.

Sideswipe: Huh? Is that a Decepticon up there?

Wheeljack: Heh, hahahaha! So are you ready — or do you need a rest?

Hot Shot: Oooh–huh?

Wheeljack: Don’t look so surprised. You knew it would come to this when you showed up. You brought this on yourself. Say something.

Hot Shot: Errgghh…

Wheeljack: Huh?

Hot Shot: Just do the job right this time. Just finish it.

Wheeljack: Hmmmmmm?!

Hot Shot: Go on, you’re a Decepticon. It’s your duty. And you, uh, know you’re being watched, don’t ‘cha?

Sideswipe: No! Don’t do it! Get away from him!

Hot Shot: Hey, thatta boy, Sideswipe!

Sideswipe: Transform!

Wheeljack: Ha, you are way out of your league, punk.

Sideswipe: Oh yeah?

Hot Shot: No, Sideswipe! Don’t do it!

Wheeljack: Heh, heh.

Hot Shot: Noooooo!

Wheeljack: Two’s company, three’s a crowd.

Hot Shot: Noooo! Wheeljack!

Wheeljack: Hahahahahaha! Hahahaha! Hahaha! Hahaha! If this place goes up, I’d say it’s goodbye for all of us.

Hot Shot: Errgghhh…

Wheeljack: Quite a fire, huh? So, does it bring back old memories for you, Hot Shot?

Sideswipe: Hot Shot! Help me!

Hot Shot: Sideswipe!

Sideswipe: Let go, you creep. You’re crushing me! Aaahh… aaahh…

Wheeljack: Hey, that’s quite enough from him.

Hot Shot: Wheeljack, this is between you and me!

Wheeljack: Heh! Once again, you’ve seem to ‘ve forgotten whom you’re dealing with! Hahahaha. I dare you to come after me.

Hot Shot: No! Come back!

Wheeljack: Ha, ha, ha. Hurry, Hot Shot. Before it’s too late.

Hot Shot: Ahh.. Urgh…

Wheeljack: Aaah, you’re awake at last.

Sideswipe: Huh?

Wheeljack: You realize your friend Hot Shot won’t help you.

Sideswipe: You monster!

Wheeljack: So you don’t believe me? Go on, start screaming for him to save you. He’ll abandon you just like he abandoned me.

Sideswipe: No way. You’re wrong!

Wheeljack: Ha, ha, ha. Have it your way, then. You’re on your own. I’ll leave you here to enjoy the view. After all, you’ve got the best seat in the house to watch me destroy Hot Shot!

Sideswipe: Huh?

Wheeljack: Now, I have work to attend to.

Sideswipe: No! Come back here, you coward! This isn’t fair! Don’t do this! Don’t leave me here!

Thrust: I think it’s time for me… to really start heating things up down there.

Hot Shot: Hey Sideswipe! Can you hear me? Ugh!

Thrust: Hahaha.

Hot Shot: Thrust!

Wheeljack: How dare you interfere with me, Thrust!

Thrust: Aaaahh! No!

Hot Shot: Huh? That’s Wheeljack!

Wheeljack: Ugh… M-Megatron, sir.

Megatron: So, we meet again, Wheeljack. It’s been a long time.

Hot Shot: Huh? Sideswipe! Sideswipe! I’m on my way to help you. Sit tight!

Sideswipe: No, don’t come up here! It’s too dangerous! Would you get outta here, this tank is gonna explode!

Hot Shot: No chance, pal! I’m coming to save ya!

Sideswipe: Then would you hurry up?! C’mon! It’s gonna blow! Let’s get outta here!

Hot Shot & Sideswipe: Aaaaaahhhh!

Hot Shot: Sideswipe… Let’s move it, buddy!

Sideswipe: Oh, thank you, Hot Shot!

Hot Shot: Calm down. Easy. Pull yourself together, Sideswipe!

[Commercial]

Thrust: Megatron, you can’t allow Wheeljack to join forces with us! He’s crazy, look what he did to me.

Megatron: Oh, be quiet, Thrust.

Thrust: B-b-b-but sir…

Megatron: That’s enough! So, Wheeljack, will you be loyal to the Decepticons?

Wheeljack: Yessir. I will dedicate myself to your cause. It will be a great honour to serve in the mighty Decepticon army.

Megatron: Excellent. You’ve made a wise decision. Consider yourself part of the family.

Wheeljack: Thank you, sir!

Megatron: Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha.

Thrust: Heh, heh, heh…

Megatron: I have big plans for you, Wheeljack.

Hot Shot: What are you guys up to?

Sideswipe: Huh? Hey, bro! Good to see ya!

Hot Shot: Man, what was that?

Sideswipe: You heard me, Hot Shot! You’re like family to me now! Like a brother. If it hadn’t been for you, I’d be a heap of ashes! You saved my life! You’re —

Alexis: All right! Cool! I’m number one! I got the highest score all by myself. Huh?

Sideswipe: I think somebody needs a hug!

Carlos: I guess Hot Shot never expected Sideswipe to be so grateful.

Alexis: Awww… And here I was going to challenge both of them to beat my high score. Oh well. Y’know, maybe I’m playing this game a little more than I should.

Rad: Hehehe…

Carlos: Heheh, ha, ha, ha!

Billy: Alexis! Didn’t we tell you it was fun?

Fred: And I find it very educational.

Alexis: I guess so!

Kids: Hahahahahahaha!

Sideswipe: Where ya going?

Hot Shot: He’s got me!

[End]

Transformers: Armada
“Past” – Episode 31
Written by Terry Klassen and Ward Perry
Transcription by Brandon Williams

–
Hot Shot: It all started with a distant memory; something from the past. A battle on Cybertron had gone badly, and a friend of mine was trapped. And I remember… well, I remember I was trying to help him.

[Flashback]

Hot Shot: Forget it, Wheeljack! I can’t move it. You wait here.

Wheeljack: Hot Shot! Please don’t go. Don’t leave me here alone. I need you to stay with me.

Hot Shot: Take it easy, Wheeljack. I’m just gonna go get help. I’ll come back real soon, ‘kay? Don’t worry about a thing. I’ll come back, I swear it.

Wheeljack: …I’ll be waiting.

Platoon Leader: Forget it! The flames are too hot! Let’s get outta here before we’re melted down as scrap.

Hot Shot: Are you nuts? One of my friends is still in there.

Soldier: It’s hopeless, Hot Shot! Forget about him!

Platoon Leader: Stop him!

Hot Shot: Let me go… I have to go back for him.

Platoon Leader: You’re not going anywhere now, Hot Shot! The unit is more important than a single soldier.

Hot Shot: …Wheeljack.

[End Flashback]

[Transition]

Alexis: Hey look! Someone’s coming.

Rad: Anyone order a pizza?

Carlos: Yeah, man. Make mine a pepperoni ice cream with double anchovies.

Alexis: Ewwww!

Sideswipe: Transform! Cybertron army deficient ten. Private Sideswipe, reporting for duty here on the planet Earth. Please allow me to assist you in any way that I can, sir.

Alexis: Is he for real?

Rad: No kidding.

Carlos: Enthusiasm will getcha nowhere, buddy! Take a chill pill.

Hot Shot: He’s gung-ho. I’ll give ‘im that.

Alexis: What’s he doing now?

Rad: Not much.

Sideswipe: Ready for duty, Commander Blurr. So nice to see you again.

Optimus: Huh?

Rad: He’s talking to you.

Carlos: You know him, don’t you, Blurr?

Blurr: No, I dunno who he is.

Hot Shot: He knows your name, Blurr.

Blurr: So what?

Alexis: Hey, maybe you just forgot. Why don’t you take another look at him?

Blurr: He — doesn’t look familiar.

Sideswipe: Have you forgotten me, sir? It’s Sideswipe, your good friend — and comrade-in-arms.

Blurr: Side-swipe?

Alexis: Remember now?

Blurr: No.

Hot Shot: Enough already. Can we bring him in now? All this remembering… is giving me a giantantic headache.

Sideswipe: What? You don’t remember me at all, Commander Blurr?

Blurr: I’m sorry. I don’t.

Carlos: Uhh…

Sideswipe: C’mon. Remember that rifle? You aimed it right at me, exactly like this.

Blurr: …At you?

Sideswipe: Uh, well, you weren’t aiming it at me, you were aiming it at a rope around my leg, and now do you remember?

Blurr: No…

Sideswipe: Maybe this will help you.

Blurr: Hmmm?

Rad & Carlos: Whaa?

Hot Shot: Hey, what is this? The circus?

Sideswipe: Heeellppp! Would somebody help me?!

Blurr: Hmmmm….

[Flashback]

Blurr: All right, hold still.

Sideswipe: Wait! Wait a minute!

Blurr: What’s your problem now?

Sideswipe: You still haven’t told me your name. My name is Sideswipe.

Blurr: My name’s Blurr.

Sideswipe: Wait a minute, Blurr!

Blurr: What is it?!

Sideswipe: Just please make sure you don’t blow off my leg or anything, okay? Please!

Blurr: If you’re worried, then get yourself outta this mess.

Sideswipe: Nooo! Don’t leave me! Shoot when I give you the signal, all right? Okay, fire away anytime!

Blurr: …Oh brother.

Sideswipe: Yaaaahh!

[End Flashback]

Sideswipe: Blurr, remember? Ya blasted the rope off my leg with only a single shot!

Carlos: Yeah, that was a nice one, Blurr.

Sideswipe: Ever since then it’s been my mission to find you, Blurr, and accompany you into battle. I asked around and found out, you were here on Earth, so I made up an excuse to get transfered here.

Blurr: Ahh…

Alexis: So after all that time, you tracked him down?

Hot Shot: Nice move. I’ve always thought of Blurr as my hero, too.

Sideswipe: I promise not to get in your way, commander, sir.

Blurr: You already are. I don’t have time for this.

Hot Shot: Take it easy, Blurr.

Sideswipe: Wait… Come back, commander! I…

Billy: He’s the weakest Transformer I’ve ever seen.

Fred: Yeah, that’s for sure.

Billy: Is anybody looking?

Fred: Nope. They’re all gone.

Billy: I’m gonna kick your butt this time!

Fred: In your dreams, dog breath.

Billy: You’re going down, buddy.

Fred: No, you’re going down.

Fred & Billy: Eat that!

Billy: Take that! And that! And that! And how do you like that?

Fred: Gimme a break! I think my controller’s stuck or something.

Fred & Billy: Oooh…

Billy: Yeahaha!

Alexis: Hey, what are you doing? I don’t believe it. You’re playing games?

Billy: Uh, we weren’t playing a game, we were just analyzing — uhh, uhh…

Fred: So ya wanna try it?

Alexis: You’ve gotta be kidding me! You nut!

Fred: Busted… Heh.

Billy: Hehehe…

Sideswipe: Commander Blurr! Uh, hold on. Wait up a second. Uh, please. Let me help you. I insist, let me give you a hand.

Blurr: Get out of my way. I’m busy.

Sideswipe: Huh?

Blurr: I have work to do and you’re interfering with me.

Sideswipe: I’m very sorry, sir. I did not mean to interfere. Uhhh… Let me help you! Ughh, aaahh, ooh!

Blurr: Oh brother.

Sideswipe: I’m… so sorry, sir.

Blurr: Quit trying to tag along and leave me alone.

Sideswipe: Ughh…

Hot Shot: You’ve gotta be kidding me. Why should I be the one who has to look after him? I mean, come on! He came here to be with you — he tracked you down. Hey, you know what, it’s kinda cute if you just stop and think about it.

Blurr: He needs to study under a fellow teammate.

Hot Shot: What is wrong with you?

Optimus: Just give it a try, will you?

Hot Shot: Optimus.

Optimus: I’m with Blurr on this one. Sideswipe needs someone to show him the ropes.

Hot Shot: But Optimus, what do I know about teaching?

Optimus: I’m leaving Sideswipe in your hands, Hot Shot.

Blurr: I’m sorry, Hot Shot. It’s the only way.

[Transition]

Hot Shot: Oh, of all the rotten luck. I can’t believe I have to babysit this guy. Oh, there he is. Standing in the rain like a fool. This is impressive… Ya trying to rust yourself to scrap?

Sideswipe: I’m not gonna rust myself!

Hot Shot: Yeah? Then what are ya doing? Don’t tell me you’re crying because Blurr told you to quit following him around.

Sideswipe: Me, crying? I’m standing guard, for your information.

Hot Shot: Standing guard. Standing guard for what? Ah, whatever. I’ve got orders from Optimus for ya.

Sideswipe: What? Orders from Optimus?

Hot Shot: Attention, soldier!

Sideswipe: Yessir!

Hot Shot: Sideswipe, as of this moment, you will be working under the supervision and guidance of Hot Shot.

Sideswipe: Under Hot Shot?

Hot Shot: That’s right, kid.

Sideswipe: Well who’s that?

Hot Shot: Ugh… I am! I’m Hot Shot, you idiot!

[Transition]

Hot Shot: Hey, all right. Not too bad. Why don’t you show me what you’re really made of. And, uh, don’t hold back this time.

Sideswipe: Hmmmph!

Hot Shot: What the heck was that supposed to be? You aiming at one of your little imaginary friends over there or what?

Sideswipe: Why don’t you shut up!

Hot Shot: Huh?

Sideswipe: Sorry ’bout that.

Hot Shot: Touchy.

Sideswipe: Well, how do ya like that? There ya be.

Hot Shot: Oh brother…

[Transition]

Sideswipe: Come on, Hot Shot. How long am I supposed to drive like this for? Hurry up and give me the big signal!

Hot Shot: What are you talking about?

Sideswipe: You — you know! Give me the sign, give me the signal.

Hot Shot: Okay… Go ahead…

Sideswipe: Yessir! Transform! Heheheh, heheheh… What?

Hot Shot: Nice try, kid. But too slow.

Sideswipe: I guess I try too hard.

Hot Shot: This is great. Think it’s gonna be a long day.

[Commercial]

[Flashback]

Wheeljack: Urgghh! Somebody help me, please!

[End Flashback]

Sideswipe: I’m sorry for all the trouble I’ve caused you.

Hot Shot: Ah, don’t worry about it, kid. It’s no big deal.

Sideswipe: I feel so embarrassed. I have a tendency to let my emotions get the best of me.

Hot Shot: Haha, boy… That’s an understatement.

Sideswipe: When I was saved by Blurr, it was like a real wake-up call for me. He rescued me without even — well, even knowing who I was. He didn’t think twice about it. And when I went to thank him, he had already gone. I owe him my life. Compared to Blurr, I was a joke. I was sleepwalking my way through life, hanging around with a bad crowd, getting into all kinds of trouble.

Hot Shot: Oh yeah, Sideswipe? So you decided you wanted to change, huh?

Sideswipe: It’s like I’ve been reborn. And it’s all thanks to Commander Blurr.

Hot Shot: You got some work yet.

Sideswipe: Huh?

Hot Shot: Check out this view. It’s amazing. You know, I’ve seen a lot of planets in my lifetime, but this is the most beautiful by far.

Sideswipe: Hmmm…

Hot Shot: Sideswipe, changing your life is not an easy thing to do.

Sideswipe: But I’m gonna do it. I wanna be just as dedicated as Blurr.

Hot Shot: But you’re not Commander Blurr.

Sideswipe: Huh?

Hot Shot: You’ve gotta be yourself. You have to focus on your strengths and weaknesses. The first thing to do is find out a reachable goal for yourself and then work toward it. Starting today, starting right now. And it has to start with you, not Commander Blurr. You have to forget about the past.

Sideswipe: Ohh…

Hot Shot: Blurr works to improve what he has. That’s why he’s an impressive warrior. You just need some fine tuning.

Sideswipe: Hmm.

Hot Shot: Now, it’s time to get back to business.

Sideswipe: Yessir!

Wheeljack: Errrgghh…

Fred: Take that! Hahahahaha! Ohh… Ohhooo! Oh, you did it! You took his head off!

Billy: Sweet, that was so awesome!

Alexis: Yeah, no doubt. I thought you said this video game was a hard one.

Hot Shot: Yo, Sideswipe! Slow down!

Sideswipe: I thought you wanted to race.

Hot Shot: Not again. Get behind me, that’s an order!

Sideswipe: Ahaha. Listen to the big man, barkin’ out orders!

Hot Shot: Sideswipe!

Sideswipe: Okay, okay. I’m coming.

Wheeljack: Prepare yourself, Hot Shot. You’re about to get a little surprise from your past. Heh, heh. You may have forgotten what you did to me, but I — will never forget.

Sideswipe: Huh? Hey, Hot Shot, there’s a strange black car coming up from behind us, and it’s coming fast.

Hot Shot: Well, it looks like someone on Earth is as big of a show-off as you are. Don’t sweat it.

Sideswipe: Uh, no problemo, boss! I’m okay if you’re okay! Here he comes!

Wheeljack: Heheheheheh…

Sideswipe: What’s he doing?!

Wheeljack: Hehahahaha! Greetings, Hot Shot! My old friend…

Hot Shot: Huh? Sideswipe!

Sideswipe: Nobody does that to me!

Wheeljack: Hahahahaha!

Sideswipe: Whhoaa, whoooaaa!

Wheeljack: So, Hot Shot, does this look familiar? Hmmm?!

Hot Shot: Huh?!

Sideswipe: You’re not gonna get away with this! Erraw!

Hot Shot: Don’t do it!

Sideswipe: Transform! Errgh!

Hot Shot: Sideswipe, don’t go off on your own. Wait a minute. That car… I remember now!

[Flashback]

Hot Shot: What is it?

Commander: I want you to take care of a young soldier. He’s skilled, but he has no battle experience. Show him the ropes. His name is Wheeljack.

[End Flashback]

[Flashback]

Wheeljack: I’m exceedingly proud to be fighting alongside you, Hot Shot. My unit has heard all about you. Even Optimus has asked you to join his troops, correct?

Hot Shot: Yeah, it’d be cool if I end up going. But, um, it’s just talk right now.

Wheeljack: Still, it’s an honour, Hot Shot. I envy you. I wish I could be more like you. I hope that we can always be friends, even if fate — or the battle — seperates us, once again.

Hot Shot: You got it, pal. We’ll always be friends, Wheeljack.

[Flashback]

Wheeljack: Help me, Hot Shot! Don’t leave me!

Hot Shot: I’m just gonna go for help. I’m gonna come back for ya soon!

[End Flashback]

[Flashback]

Hot Shot: Are you nuts? One of my friends is still in there. Let me go… I have to go after him. Wheeljack!

[End Flashback]

[Commercial]

Wheeljack: Heh, heh, heh. Here he comes.

Sideswipe: He won’t get away so easy this time. Where’d he go? Aahh! Aahh! Aaaaahh! Jerk! You wanna go for it, pal? Huh? What in the world’s going on here?

Wheeljack (multiples): Hahahahahaha!

Hot Shot: Sideswipe! Hold on!

Wheeljack: Hahahaha… This is the end for you!

Sideswipe: Whoa! Transform!

Wheeljack: Heh, heh. That showed him who’s boss.

Hot Shot: Transform! Sideswipe.

Wheeljack: Well, well, look who finally showed up. Too bad you missed the party.

Hot Shot: What are you saying?

Wheeljack: Transform! Looks like you’ve gotten better at abandoning your inferiors.

Hot Shot: Wheeljack! You’re still alive.

Wheeljack: Haha. Surprised, Hot Shot? Well, I’ll tell you something else. The Wheeljack you abandoned… is dead. I’ve been reborn.

Hot Shot: I’m sorry, Wheeljack. Forgive me, Wheeljack, ol’ buddy. There was nothing I could do. But leave my friend outta this. This is between you and me.

Wheeljack: You call him your friend? Heh, heh, heh. I think you’re mistaken, Hot Shot. I didn’t come here for revenge. I’m no longer the Wheeljack you knew. Like I said… I’ve been reborn… I’ve become a Decepticon.

Hot Shot: No! It’s… not true…

Wheeljack: Sorry, but it is. Our friendship’s over. Let’s forget the past, and get on with our lives, so we can battle as enemies. Understand? There’s nothing I can do to change the past.

Hot Shot: But why are you doing this, Wheeljack?

Wheeljack: Hot Shot… When you left me behind in the wreckage, I truly believed you were coming back for me. But then the flames overcame me and I knew that the end was upon me at last. When I saw a distant figure approaching, at first, I thought it was you.

Hot Shot: No, Wheeljack. It can’t be!

Wheeljack: It’s true! Megatron saved me. My life belongs to Megatron from now on. Be prepared, Hot Shot. I am stronger than I was before… I’m stronger than even you are.

Hot Shot: Wheeljack!

[End]