Seibertron.com Energon Pub Forums

Ark-19 - The Autobot HQ

The Ark-19 is a standard sized Ark class vessel. Standard size of course being massive, enough to easily accommodate an entire infiltration team for an indefinite amount of time. The ship features everything an Autobot needs for an extended duty assignment including armored fuel tanks, multiple crew quarters, labs, a training center, a full repair bay and a fully stocked armory. While not a dedicated war ship she can more then hold her own in a fight. While once again able to fly, the Ark-19 is still in need of major repairs.
_____________________________________

Ark-19 - Command Deck

Ironhide was loathe to admit it, but he kinda liked Earth. Unlike some worlds he'd been stationed on, the Humans were good folks, for the most part. Sure, they had a few bad circuits in the system, and they were far from perfect. But that just reminded him more of home.

Slag. He was gettin' all nostalgic. He was startin' to sound like ol' Kup. He wondered how the crotchety blue mech was doin' these days. He'd been partnered with the Kup way back when he was just a shiny new rookie, and Kup still had some of his original parts. That was a long, long time ago nowadays.

Things sure had changed since then. Cybertron lost. The once-proud Autobots scattered across the stars. And even someone as hard-aft as Ironhide could understand why most Autobots found themselves wonderin' why they were still fighting from time to time. But Ironhide never felt that way. He'd been one of the last to leave Cybertron in those final, terrible hours, and he'd seen too much destruction and death in the endless years since. Slag, just thinkin' about what those Decepticreeps had done to Lithone made his circuits sizzle. No, Ironhide knew fraggin' well why they kept fightin'.

An incoming distress call from Jazz brought the Autobot officer back to the present. Aw, slag. I shoulda never let that jive-talkin' fancyboy talk me inta this. It was too fraggin' risky, an' I knew it! Well. No time ta worry bout that now. Jazz needs backup. An' I know just the boys ta git that job done!

>>"Sideswipe! Sunstreaker! Look lively. Jazz needs backup. Orbital Bounce authorized. Get out there an' bust some heads!"<<

Ark-19 - Corridors

A broad smile made its way onto the crimson warrior’s face as he leaned in close to his twin’s audio sensors. He didn’t want any unnecessary leakage of his great plan to get out of the base. It had taken him to fully plan their escape from the mediocrity of base life, and by no means was he going to let anyone other than Sunny hear it.

“Okay, here’s what we do. We sneak into…”

Just as he was about to spill his brilliant plan the crotchety voice of that old codger, Ironhidecame over the comm. Shoulders slumped in a defeated gesture, Sideswipe’s head plunged. But it perked as he heard their temporary commander authorize an orbital bounce to help out Jazz. This opportunity could mean only one thing…..Jazz was having Con trouble and his only chance was he and Sunny.

Another smirk greeted the golden warrior as the comm. link closed. Sideswipe gripped his brother’s arm and began to tug at Sunny in order for him to follow to get to an area they could use to bounce out of the base

“Come on Sunny! We gotta save Jazz form those slaggers! Let’s go!”

Corridors

Sunstreaker wasn’t exactly pinning his hopes on Sideswipe’s grand plan. He expected something dangerous, only half thought out and would probably land them in the brig if it failed. Still, he would rather take the chance of punishment versus glory than stand around in the underwater base any longer. Despite his dislike and concern for corrosion from the toxic water just outside the vessel, he was going to bash his way through the hull out of pure boredom if something didn’t happen to break the monotony soon. Whatever Sideswipe had in mind would have to suffice.

Just as his brother began to speak he was interrupted by Ironhide. The annoying rustbucket was currently the source of much of Sunstreaker’s frustration. He let out a groan as soon as he heard his ridiculous voice. His mood improved rapidly when he heard what the Autobot commander said. A smirk spread over his face. ‘Finally, someone realized what a waste it is having me hiding in a giant puddle.’ He wasn’t entirely pleased to be getting sent out to save Jazz’s aft, but there would be Cons to fight. That was enough for him for the time being.

He quickly shook off his brother’s hold on his arm. “I know where the airlock is idiot; you don’t have to drag me.” It didn’t sound like it, but that was Sunstreaker’s version of being nice. Another Autobot would have gotten more of an audio receptor full for manhandling the yellow warrior, if not a boot in the aft. “And I could care less about Jazz. The stupid empty has practically gone native, what with all of the Earth music he listens to. Saving him is just a nice excuse to smash some con heads in.”

The two Autobots quickly made their way out of the base through the airlock and the disguised raft. While the orbital bounce could be done from the base directly, it was safer to do so outside where there was no risk of interference from the water. In a flash of blinding light, the two warriors were gone.

Repair Bay

Trailbreaker listened as Ratchet tinkered with his shoulder. The medic had actually made a good point, assuming he was right about the fake humans in the first place. If the inhabitants of this world were able to discover the existence of clones, they probably would eventually discover the existence of Cybertronians. And they probably wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between Autobots and Decepticons. All would be considered a threat, and that’s even more worrisome.

“That could still happen, regardless if you are right about the copies,” the black mech reasoned once Ratchet had finished fixing his shoulder. “These humans may not be as technologically advanced as us, but they aren’t completely unintelligent. If we’re not careful, we could still be discovered, if we haven’t been already.”

Trailbreaker then stood and moved his arm up and down and side to side. “Nice work, Ratchet. The kink's gone. Next time I won’t wait so long to come see you.”

Computer Labs – Diagnostics

Smokescreen began downloading the results of the system diagnostic to a portable data disk. He had just finished running it moments ago on the Ark-19's central computer to ensure that everything was functioning according to spec. The diversionary tactician knew he had wasted enough time watching human car racing and talking with his friend Wheeljack, who was still tinkering with one of his broken inventions somewhere in the labs. Ironhide didn’t like to be kept waiting and would want the detailed report sooner rather than later. And if that didn’t happen, Smokey would surely hear from his commander demanding to know what was taking so long on a simple diagnostic.

Within astroseconds the download was complete and Smokescreen ejected the data disk from the console. He stood, disk in hand, and headed for the door. "Catch ya later, Wheeljack," the red and blue mech said as he exited the labs.

Corridors

Smokescreen made his way through the ship heading for the command deck where Ironhide spent most of his time. Smokescreen liked the veteran mech even if he was a little strict with the infiltration protocols. A lot of the younger Autobots considered Ironhide to be an old relic, but Smokey knew better. Ironhide was as tough as they come and would never back down from a fight nor would he ever leave a fellow ‘bot behind. Smokescreen respected Ironhide greatly and considered him to not only be his commanding officer, but his friend, as well.

Command Deck

Smokescreen entered and peered around what was undoubtedly the very heart of the ship. It had been awhile since he was last up on the command deck, and Smokey had forgotten how intimidating it could be to a lower ranking Autobot like himself. His eyes finally found Ironhide sitting in his command chair appearing serious and focused on something. Smokey took a deep breath and carefully approached him.

"Commander, I have finished running the computer diagnostic you requested. All systems are running at optimal levels. The full report is here on this data disk," the racing expert said as he handed the disk to Ironhide. "Will there be anything else you need of me, sir?"

Repair Bay

Windcharger woke to the sound of metal on metal. It took a moment for his optics to focus on the source of the noise. There was Brawn with a big, mischevious grin on his face rapping on Windcharger's cranial module repeatedly. "Come on little buddy. We've got work to do." The macho mech finally stopped his assault on his friend's audio receptors.

Windcharger sat up with a smile. He generated a magnetic field and used it to push Brawn out of his way. "Who are you calling little?" he asked jokingly. The red minibot got up and did a quick test of his joints, finding them all working as well as the day he was assembled. Ratchet sure does fantastic work. Hopping off of the bench Windcharger headed for the door seeming more energetic than usual. "Let's go Brawn. Ironhide's waiting."

Together the two Autobots headed for the command center, Windcharger taking the lead in the conversation as usual. Brawn simply sighed and humoured his friend as he was peppered with questions about earth. Without a doubt, Brawn thought, Windcharger was one of the most excited to be here. Brawn liked the guy well enough, but he starting to grow tired of always having him around. What Brawn really wanted was a chance to kick some Decepticon exhaust ports. Missions with Windcharger usually felt like protoform-sitting.

Windcharger spoke all the way to the command center with Brawn responding mostly mono-syllabically. For all his chatter, Windcharger was a pretty funny 'bot heaping on the sarcasm. They entered the command center just as Windcharger was relating a funny story about a run in they'd had with Skywarp back on Cybertron, which got a genuine guffaw out of Brawn. They shuffled in and upon seeing Ironhide and Smokescreen, Brawn gave Windcharger a nudge and snapped to attention. Windcharger stopped laughing and followed suit.

"Brawn and Windcharger reporting for duty," Brawn spoke with an air of authority. He never let anyone speak for him, one of Brawn's charms that annoyed Windcharger. Often Windcharger referred to Brawn as Bluster 'Bot behind his back. The brawny fellow had no idea how to censor himself, especially if he was in disagreement with another Autobot.

Windcharger quietly left Brawn's side and sat down at his work station and continued his work helping to collate data that Teletraan had collected on their current location. Brawn remained at attention waiting for Ironhide to acknowledge his presence. Windcharger looked at him and muttered quietly to himself, "Gimme a break Brawn. Just go do your work."

Command & Control - Ironhide

Ironhide grimaced as he looked over Smokescreen's report. As much as he would have preferred to simply skim over the major points of the immense document, the veteran knew all too well the importance of thoroughness. Astroseconds clicked by as he absorbed the data. As he did, he could almost feel Smokey's drive train grinding. The computer whiz didn't like sitting still, that much was for sure. Once he felt he had a comfortable grasp on the material, he waited a few extra astroseconds before responding. Just to rattle the kid a bit.

"So yer sure everything is runnin' up to spec?" he asked the analyst. Two months ago, Smokescreen had detected telltale signs of Cybertronian coding hidden in a Human Internet server. It had been an online Brokerage Firm, so they had surmised that the enemy might behind the recent worldwide economic destabilization the Humans had been experiencing. The primitive mess that was Earth's global communications network was a confusing thing, so it had proven impossible to trace. It had, however, raised alarming questions as to just how wide the Decepticons had spread their web on this little planet. And whether or not accessing the virus-ridden native network could compromise the Ark position or system integrity.

Smokescreen's report seemed to assure him that such a thing was nearly impossible. Their firewalls , encryption protocols and other defenses were intact, and the ship's systems were working at optimal levels. But as positive as that sounded, Ironhide wasn't so quick to dismiss the threat. He'd worked security far too long to believe in an impenetrable defense.

The cantankerous old mech looked over Smokey's shoulder, acknowledging Windcharger and Brawn with a nod. "Yer standin' here tellin' me that there ain't no chance of them intrudin' in our system from an outside terminal. Is that right? 'Cause if that's what yer sayin' (and yer sure of it), then I'm satisfied. If you got even a shred a doubt, you tell me now, or I swear ta Primus, Brawn here is gonna pitch you in the lake."

Computer Lab

Wheeljack was hunched over his work station, tools in each of his hands as he tinkered with his most recent invention. He had been trying to find a way to upgrade the fuel pumps of team mates, but was meeting with less then success. His first few prototypes all had some sort of regulation problem that either injected to much fuel to fast or to slow into the test drones systems. The new pump either overloaded from way to much fuel being building up, or to shut down after burning up to much fuel to quickly. He thought he had worked out the issues, but the most recent version of his fuel pump had seemed to work fine, but once the test drone transformed it could not regulate the fuel properly while the drone was in its alternate mode and began to suffer from the same issues as before. Some of the others thought it might be a lost cause, but Wheeljack wasn't ready to admit that.

"Perhaps if I reprogram the regulation circuits to a more standard process that way I can overcome the issue of injecting fuel to quickly." He muttered to himself as the vocalizers on either side of his head glowed as he spoke. "And if I recalibrate the pump mechanisms I might be able to get around the issue of fuel being injected to slowly." Wheeljack used his tools to make the changes and then sealed up the new prototype. "Now let's see if this works."

He picked up the pump and turned to the fresh test drone and placed it inside and activated the pump just to see if it worked alright. At first it seemed everything was fine, but then the pump locked up and ruptured, and fuel began leaking from drones chest cavity. Wheeljack sighed and removed the defective unit and cleaned up the mess. Maybe this was a lost cause, and there were other more promising projects he was working on that he should probably turn his attention to.

He was about to turn his attention to one of those projects when Ironhide came over the ships intercom, summoning Sideswipe and Sunstreaker. Something was up and Wheeljack figured it would be best if he reported to the command deck in case he was needed. His projects were not of a pressing concern right now.

Command Deck
Wheeljack entered the command deck and saw that several of the others were there as well, he could also hear the communications feed from Sunstreaker and Sideswipe in the field. Wheeljack couldn't figure out if the situation was critical or not, but it did sound serious at least. He made his way over to where Ironhide was standing and nodded to Smokescreen.

"I heard you calling the brothers Ironhide, and thought I might be of some use."

Wheeljack waited for his commander to give him any orders.

Command Deck

Bumblebee was been sitting at this station on the command deck conducting a routine systems check of the ships security and stealth systems just to make sure there were no breeches at present. So far everything was in working order and no errors or breeches had taken place since the Autobot's had arrived. He had also been keeping an audio receptor turned to the communications system as information came back from Sideswipe's anSunstreaker's mission.

Once Smokescreen made an appearance the small Autobot rose from his seat and walked across the command deck to stand next to Ironhide as Smokescreen gave his report. He looked over when Brawn and Windcharger arrived and gave them a friendly smile and a nod of acknowledgment.

"Hey Ironhide, once your done with that report mind if I take a look to?"

Command Deck

Smokescreen waited patiently for Ironhide to finish reviewing the diagnostic report. The old mech was taking his time, for sure. He was always one to be thorough, and Smokey knew it. Smokey also knew that if he had to stand still much longer, he’d probably bust a fuel pump. How long does it take to look over a simple report? The red and blue Autobot thought just as Brawn and Windcharger entered the command deck. Smokescreen glanced at them with a nod and a smile and then returned his attention to his commander.

Astroseconds later, Ironhide finally addressed the diversionary tactician directly. Smokey expected the commander to say “good job” or “great work” and then send him on his way to his next assignment. Instead, the old ‘bot pressed Smokey further on the integrity of the ship’s computer system, questioning whether or not the firewalls would repel any outside intrusion 100%, and if the computer wiz had any doubts.

Smokescreen was taken aback slightly by Ironhide’s tough questions. He thought for a moment on how to respond. If he said he had no doubts and then a virus infected the Ark-19’s computer, compromising important data, Ironhide would probably do more than have Brawn throw him in the lake. He’d tear the red and blue ‘bot a new aft section first from which he could then spew more smoke. On the other hand, if he said that he did have doubts, then Ironhide would probably make him go back to the computer labs and continue working on how to improve the system, which would increase Smokey’s bordem levels even further.

"Yes, sir," Smokescreen began, "I am confident that our firewalls will repel any attempted intrusions from one of the infinite number of computer viruses that the humans have constructed. They are primitive programs at best and don’t stand a chance at breaking through our advanced system guards and protections. With that said, and as you well know, there is no such thing as a perfect system. I wish there were. It would make my job a lot simpler."

Smokescreen paused an astrosecond as he noticed Bumblebee standing next to him wanting to look at the report. Smokey smiled at the minibot before continuing. "However, if you remember a couple of months back, I detected a bit of Cybertronian code on that human mainframe. We suspected that the Decepticons had planted it there, but we were unable to determine the exact source. It seemed to act like a virus, which concerned me as I’m sure it did you, commander. There is a slight chance that if the enemy has modified a preexisting computer virus, or even created a new one utilizing Cybertronian code, that it could possibly find a way into our system. It’s still very unlikely, but it is a scenario that I have considered and have taken steps to prevent to the best of my ability. But there are still no guarantees. I can only continue looking for better ways to improve our system defenses."

As Smokescreen finished his sentence, Wheeljack entered the command deck and walked up alongside him. Smokey regarded the inventor with a nod and then looked back at Ironhide. “If I may, sir, I would suggest continuing to monitor the human internet for anything suspicious. If a ‘con virus were to make an attempt to infect our system, it would most certainly come from there.”

Command Deck

As Smokescreen reported to Ironhide about the presence of Cybertronian code existing in this human internet Bumblebee crossed his arms over his chest as he listened. The Autobot second in command began to ponder what the computer specialist was saying. Although Bumblebee was certain that the computer mainframe and systems were fine, Smokescreen was one of the best when it came to such matters and if he said the system was clear it was clear. However, Bumblebee still had his concerns. Even though his primary responsibility was espionage and intelligence gathering, the yellow mini-bot had taken it upon himself to also make sure that Ark-19's stealth systems, communication traffic and its various sensor outputs were all operational and encrypted so no one could trace any of the electronic footprints of the Autobot's on Earth.

"At any time during your diagnostic Smokescreen did you detect there could be any problems with our stealth systems? Or even with the encryption codes that mask our communications and sensor outputs? I've had some concerns lately that something might be wrong as I have noticed the same group of humans poking around the shore line of the lake for the past few weeks. Although they act like normal tourists to the area I have my suspicions they could be something else, but I just want to make sure our anti-detection systems are up and functioning properly."

Bumblebee was not one to be paranoid, but his concerns had been growing as he had monitored some of the surveillance equipment he had deployed along the coast line just to keep an eye on things around Ark-19's hiding spot. Although humans were primitive they weren't stupid, but he was sure the stealth systems were beyond the capability of humans to crack. However, he had spent some time monitoring this human internet to see if it held any promise for his purposes of gathering intelligence. During his searches he had come across a number of human websites that were based around the idea of alien infiltration of Earth, though most believe in so-called "little green men" not giant alien, transforming mechanoids.

"Actually Ironhide I would like permission to deploy more sophisticated surveillance equipment to compliment what we already have out there."

Command Deck

Smokescreen turned to the yellow minibot, who expressed concerns regarding the ship's stealth systems and encryption codes. Bumblebee's interest in computers surprised Smokescreen since the minibot's main function was espionage. Of course, Smokey's primary function was diversionary tactics on the battlefield, but here he was conducting maintenance checks on the Ark-19's systems. Computers have always been a side interest to him with racing and gambling coming first. However, running computer diagnostics had become a major duty of his since Smokey's arrival on this planet four years ago. Being that he has seen little to no action, his diversionary abilities have not been required...yet.

Although, the red and blue mech was able to utilize some of his skills in diversion to create special system safeguards that would deflect attention away from the Autobot ship when connected to the human internet. Basically, if someone or something tried to trace the Ark-19's signal, the safeguards would simply divert the intruder to a human computer server on the other side of the planet, making it appear that the ship's signal was coming from there instead of it's true origins.

"I detected nothing of concern with our stealth systems, Bumblebee. They are functioning normally," Smokescreen stated, hoping to alleviate the minibot's concerns. "Furthermore, the encryption codes and internet safeguards are in place and working fine. As I said before, the human's primitive programs, virus or otherwise, are not advanced enough to hack into our systems." Smokescreen then turned his attention back to Ironhide. "Again, the only potential outside intrusion threat currently lies with a Decepticon-created or modified virus, and even that is only a slim possibility. So, while our systems are as secure as they can be right now, I would still remain vigilant for anything out of the ordinary."

Command Center

Brawn took the nod from Ironhide as his cue to sit down. Making his way to his work station he passed Smokescreen and gave him a friendly punch on the leg to emphasize that he probably could throw the Autobot into a lake if he had to. Any comments Brawn had he kept to himself, not wanting to interrupt a conversation about security. As an expert in demolitions, security wasn't his forte.

The workstation designated to Brawn was on the opposite side of the command center from Windcharger, thankfully. Brawn liked the red minibot, but sometimes he was a bit scattered. Whenever Windcharger worked around him he'd be interrupted at regular intgervals with some new piece of trivia. Now that they were on earth it was even worse. The constant compilation of new data was sending Windchargers processors into overdrive. Brawn wasn't sure how the guy could be so enthusiastic over working at a computer terminal, but to Windcharger it was great because he could jump around from subject to subject. In that way, Windcharger had been learning much about earth and it's diversity of culture and geography.

Command Deck

Wheeljack saw that Ironhide was a little busy at the moment and more then likely didn't have the time at the moment to address the inventor. He figured it would be best if he went about is duties until he was needed, Ironhide was unlikely to forget that Wheeljack was there and he would be called upon if the Autobot commander judged that his subordinates abilities were needed. Turning, Wheeljack made his way over to his own station and sat down in front of the panel and began a series of status checks and diagnostics on the ships engineering related systems.

Next to Wheeljack's own computer station was Brawn's. Although the two 'Bots had known each other for a long time, since arriving on Earth 'Jack had not very little chances to talk with the tough mini-bot. It was one of those moments where he thought that he probably had been spending way to much time in his lab. He set his work station to run a diagnostic of the ships power systems, a few solar cycles ago own of Wheeljack's new inventions had malfunctioned during a test and had damaged a number power junctions disrupting several internal systems. Although he had repaired the damage he had been running system checks to ensure everything was working at peek efficiency.

"So Brawn," Wheeljack said as he looked over to the smaller 'Bot. "How have things been? You know I've been giving some thinking, and I've been trying to figure out a way to enhance your hitting power. I was wondering if you'd be interested in trying out some powered knuckles I've been tinkering with. They should let you break open some Decepticon chassis' with one good punch. What do you say? Interested in giving it a try?"

Computer Lab

Skids sat hunched over the station in his own current little corner of the lab, muttering to himself as he tried to think about/monitor a few dozen things at once. There were a large number of datapads scattered around him, containing information ranging from Earth history, to random cultural studies, to lists of potential alt modes, to headlines of current events. The piles even held a few Ark status reports that somehow managed to worm their way in, no doubt tossed there by some well-meaning fellow lab-dweller who knew he might miss them otherwise. His computer display, meanwhile, was covered in small windows displaying various feeds from Earth TV and radio stations, which he was listening to on a personal audio connection.

He knew some of the others would grumble from time to time about him getting to spend all of his time "fooling around" while they had to do the real work, but Skids thought his work was important, even if it turned out no one else did... the 'Cons were certainly paying attention to whatever cultural aspects they could subvert to their own purposes, after all. And while some 'Bots looked at otherworld culture as a hobby, he didn't have the luxury of observing only the enjoyable things. It certainly seemed that fully half his time was spent monitoring the multitude of Earth's violent "hot spots". This was one of the planets where he thought there was a good chance that the Decepticons would barely have to lift a finger to destroy the place - the humans might well do it for them.

Plus it was hard work trying to keep all of the information straight sometimes. At least this time he had managed to keep the list of possible places to station the Ark free of any backyards belonging to planetary rulers, unlike that one incident he hoped no one else remembered.

One of the radio feeds started to fizzle out on him, and he smacked the console ineffectually and grumbled. It was a frequent problem... even their relatively sophisticated equipment couldn't do much if the source itself tended to fluctuate or suffer interference. Still, maybe Wheeljack would have some ideas for a device that could help... he used one hand to tune into another radio station that was carrying information similar to what the fizzled one had been covering, and raised the other hand towards Wheeljack's lab station.

"Wheeljack? If you're not too busy, perhaps I could tell you about something you could help me with at some point..."

It wasn't until some moments later when he'd finally found a new radio station that Skids realized there'd been no answer. He looked up and found the labs seemed to be empty except for him. A glance at the chronometer further told him that he'd once again spent far too much time bent over his console. He hoped he hadn't missed anything important... he'd heard a few intercom messages, but had tuned them out since they didn't contain his name. He didn't think they had, anyway.

After running through his head a list of places Wheeljack might be, he decided to start with messaging Wheeljack's Command Deck station... even if he wasn't there, maybe someone else would come across the message and tell him where the engineer had gotten off to.

>>"Wheeljack? Please tell me I wasn't imagining things and you actually were here in the labs earlier, it will help my sanity. If you happen to not be too busy at the moment, I could use your help with a potential project. I didn't miss anything again, did I?"<<

Command Deck

Wheeljack had just posed his question to Brawn when Skids contacted him at his work station. The inventory sighed to himself and concluded that Skids had been to engrossed in one of his projects to notice what was going on around him. He more then likely missed Ironhide's call for the brothers to go rescue Jazz... Skids probably didn't even know Jazz was on a mission. Wheeljack figured he wasn't needed on the command deck at the moment he decided he might as well go see what Skids wanted. He leaned over his work station and routed the diagnostics he was running to load up on his station in the lab before standing up.

"Well Brawn I am going to go see what Skids wants. If you're interested in my proposal let me know later and I can see if we can work something out." Wheeljack then switched over to his comm. system. >>Yeah Skids, I was in the lab earlier. I came up to the command deck to see if I could be of any help when Ironhide order Sunstreaker and Sideswipe to extract Jazz, but looks like they don't need me up here. I'm sure if they need us they'll call us so I wouldn't worry to much, I'll be down in the lab in a few astroseconds.<<

After switching off his communicator Wheeljack turned for the exit of the command deck and made his way to the door and down to the lab.

Computer Lab
The door to the computer lab slid open to the computer lab as Wheeljack walked in. Only a few of the other Autobots had a work station here, such as himself, Skids and Smokescreen and a few of the others who had more technical skills that were needed. He walked over to his work station and activated the monitors, the diagnostics he had started were still running and were about 60% finished. Once he made sure everything was still running smoothly he turned and walked over to where Skids was working.

"Alright Skids what sort of project do you have in mind?" He said looking over at the other 'Bots work station and saw a pile of various datapads and a computer screen full of different windows. "Heh, seems you are pretty busy here already."

Computer Lab

Skids rubbed his head in consternation after receiving Wheeljack's message, and wondered to the empty lab, "Extract Jazz? Extract Jazz from what?" Figures... he had missed something again. He briefly considered looking through his pile of datapads to see if he could find some report on the matter, but finally decided to just wait and ask the engineer instead. Wheeljack was one of the 'Bots whose comments on his absent-mindedness he could usually live with.

I still need to pay attention more often, though, he chided himself. And maybe one of these days that idea would actually sink in.

He disconnected his personal audio and worked on tidying up the datapads and display windows a little as he waited for Wheeljack to reach the lab and check his work station. He then smiled as Wheeljack came over and commented on Skids' own station.

"'Busy' is an understatement... I vote we sedate everyone on the planet for a few cycles so I can catch up." Skids chuckled a little. "In any case, I had been thinking you might be able to help me with my monitoring... I keep having trouble with signals experiencing interference from the weather, each other, or other issues, and had wondered if there was a way around the matter aside from personally giving all of the humans transmitters that aren't scrap."

He changed to a more serious tone as he continued, "However, if Jazz and the brothers really are in some kind of trouble, it can wait if need be. What's been going on? Is there anything I can help with?" Skids looked sheepish as he finished with, "I see Smokescreen left at some point as well."

Computer Lab

"I think at the moment it is best to just wait, Ironhide seems to have the situation in hand." Wheeljack said as he shook his head slightly before standing up to rub his chin. "Well it sounds like to me all you need is a simple signal isolator that will let you to receive outside transmissions in a more orderly fashion and record those that you aren't listening to for review later. The only issue is we might have to increase the signal strength of our own communications grid. If we do that we might have to run the idea through Ironhide since Bumblebee already has some concerns that our communications encryption might not be as secure."

Wheeljack turned to his work station. He already had developed the device he had mentioned to Skids, it had been needed on other worlds similar to Earth's level of technology, the only issue is Earth had a greater amount of communication traffic. He opened a compartment and took out small, round component that fit easily into the palm of his hand.

"Just attach this to your receiver and hit this button. It should adjust automatically to clean up the signals you are receiving, streamline them so you can get the ones you want to hear clear and phase out an background interference. Also like I said before it will establish a file to record each individual signal you receive whether you listen to it or not. I just hope it will work, so far we have not had to use it in an environment this full of comm. traffic. My only concern is that it might get overloaded and burn out, or that we might have to increase out signal strength.. which means a great risk of our own communications getting picked up."

Wheeljack attached the device to Skids comm. unit and hit the switch.

Command Deck

Brawn continued working away as Wheeljack settled in next to him at another workstation. For an instant he almost wished that he was sitting next to Windcharger instead. It wasn't that he disliked the Autobot inventor, but there was misunderstanding of what Wheeljack really contributed to the Autobot cause. Brawn judged others based on their actions moreso than intentions, and it seemed to him that Wheeljack meant well but was unable to back his intentions with action. So, it was with great trepidation that Brawn conversed with Wheeljack.

Adding to his problems with thinkers like Wheeljack, was his tendency to say whatever he thinks. This bluntness had never ingratiated himself towards Autobots like Wheeljack and Skids. He had even had trouble with Bumblebee until they had accomplished a few duo missions together. He'd seen first hand how courageous the yellow minibot could be in a dangerous situation, and had won Brawn's respect. With Wheeljack it was slightly more complicated.

Brawn, along with all the other Autobots, was well aware that sometimes Wheeljack's inventions didn't work out the way he had planned. As a demolitions expert Brawn could appreciate a good explosion, but he preferred it to be under controlled conditions. Wheeljack's suggestion to "enhance" his hitting power with powered knuckles did not appeal to him at all. It wasn't that he fear an explosion of Wheeljack's invention, he was tough enough to survive a small blast, however why mess with something that's not broken. Brawn was already stronger than most Autobots, and had little trouble tearing Decepticon sheet metal. In fact, it was one of his favorite pastimes.

"Hey Wheeljack. My optics are going to drop out if I have to keep looking at this monitor forever."

Brawn groaned as Wheeljack started into his proposal of upgrading him to powered knuckles, even though he didn't know what that meant.

"I don't know Wheeljack. Maybe one of the other Autobots needs it more than me. I'm already strong enough to throw Thundercracker from here to..."

A message from Skids interrupted their conversation, and just in time too. As Wheeljack got up to leave, Brawn felt a sense of relief.

"Alright I'll let you know. You two brain-bots have fun."

Brawn chuckled to himself and went back to work.

"Powered knuckles? What'll that guy think of next?"

Computer Lab

Skids watched his display with fascination as the device went about its behind-the-scenes work, cleaning up the various signals and making them clearer, and causing brief status messages to pop up as it established various files in the system for recording.

He was so fascinated, in fact, that it took several moments for the acrid scent of smoke to register on his sensors. He noticed that (unsurprisingly, he had to admit) Wheeljack's new device was the source of said smoke, and was also starting to emit ominous crackling and popping noises. Skids quickly moved to shut down a few of the signals in the hopes it might help the device keep working... Thankfully, after closing out several of them the device did indeed stop behaving dangerously and settle down.

It wasn't quite perfect... while the signals no longer cut out completely, they still sometimes faded in strength, or the interference played intermingled with the signals. And he couldn't monitor quite as many signals as before.

Still, he was willing to count it as a success... his console not only hadn't been reduced to molten slag or flying debris, it did work some measure better than it had before. He only hoped the engineer would look at it the same way and not get downhearted.

Skids gave Wheeljack an encouraging smile. "This is wonderful... at least I can get signals a bit more consistently now, and I appreciate the recording feature. I could trying setting up a system to scan for and flag certain keywords, perhaps Smokescreen could help me set that up..." He got a mock thoughtful look. "It could free me up to actually venture outside the lab for a change. I could remember what the rest of the ship looks like... convince Ironhide to let me go out in the field more often...

"...risk bumping into Sunstreaker and Sideswipe in the corridors. Hmm. Well, I suppose you can't win everything..." Skids shrugged good-naturedly.

Computer Lab

After Skids attached the regulation device to his computer Wheeljack looked down at the monitor. At first things appeared to be working normally as Skids was able to focus on the transmissions he wanted while the others were filtered out and stored for later. However, the huge volume of communication traffic on Earth was far greater then he had anticipated. He had first created the device for use on other worlds were the communication traffic was more controlled, orderly and not as great. He could already see something was wrong with the speed the device was handling the transmissions and the speed. He wasn't surprised when it started smoking, though he was surprised to see that it didn't burn out, but someone managed to get it down to a more manageable level even if it wasn't working as well as Skids had hoped.

"Huh, that was unexpected." Wheeljack said as he rubbed his chin. "I guess the processor was just way to over worked and nearly, literally, burned itself out. I'll want to take a look at that later when you're done Skids, I want to take a look at that. I didn't think it could nearly burn out like that and keep working that well... maybe I can fix it to work better." The vocalizers glowed softly as he talked to himself. "Hmm, maybe if I increase the processor speed and size it can handle the high degree of transmissions on this world, and if I put a stronger encryption chip in there it might also help balance out those issues."

Wheeljack never really heard the last few things Skids said to him as he was walking to his own work station and was making mental notes. He sat down at his station and opened up the regulation devices speaks and began to work on the changes he was thinking of as he prepared to build a new one. He was at this for sometime when he finally looked up.

"Hey Skids, have you noticed how quiet it has gotten around here? The brothers were sent out on a mission, and everyone else seems ready to climb the walls to get out of here... just seems kinda odd how everyone suddenly seems so inactive."

Computer Lab

Skids looked surprised for a moment as Wheeljack drifted off without seeming to notice his last bit of commentary, but then chuckled quietly as he realized the engineer was busy muttering to himself about how to improve the regulation device. He should have figured that Wheeljack would never get discouraged so long as there was some engineering conundrum he could ponder.

He wasn't particularly insulted or bothered by Wheeljack's sudden lack of attention, either. A scientist drifting off while lost in thought was certainly a common enough occurrence... and, as far as Skids was concerned, preferable to the way many non-scientists' optics tended to glaze over as their processors stopped working in response to complex concepts. He contented himself with studying some of the new features of the regulation device, figuring that eventually Wheeljack would drift back out of his thoughts and share some of them, as scientists were also wont to do.

Skids managed to become so preoccupied with his new "toy", however, that he still jumped slightly when Wheeljack spoke up. He rubbed his head thoughtfully as he considered Wheeljack's question.

"I have to admit I didn't notice how quiet it was until I contacted you on the Command Deck... usually I'm busy paying attention to how noisy the humans are." He smiled a little sheepishly. "If I had to guess, I suppose everyone is waiting to see how Jazz and the brothers fare on the mission. You know far more than I do about what is going on regards that, however...

"Oh, and here you are." Skids deactivated and detached the regulation device and handed it to Wheeljack, then turned back to his display and watched as the signals changed back to their previous functioning. "I just hope that whatever's going on, it isn't happening too close to any of the humans' cities or 'hot spots'..."

(OOC: Sorry for the wait.)

Command Deck- Ironhide

This was getting out of hand. Half the slaggin' crew was up in the command deck, asking about one thing or another. As he passed Bumblebee the report he'd asked to see, Ironhide could feel his circuits starting to sizzle.

The Autobots in question seemed to pick up on his building frustration. Many of them had been with him for a good long time now, and knew how to read him quite well. Wheeljack had the good sense to get out if the line of fire while the getting was good. Brawn and Windcharger got right down to work. Good mechs.

The Ark-19's commander took in the exchange between Smokescreen and his XO before answering either of them. Their reasoning was sound. Particularly when it came to Bee's suggestion of increasing their surveillance.

"Permission granted, Little Buddy," he told the Intelligence Officer. "Get us some new optics out there. Take Smokescreen with you. Smokey, once y'all get the equipment deployed, then continue yer monitoring. Git to it!"

The old veteran slumped into the captain's chair. His thoughts were with his mechs in the field. He hoped they'd do right by Jazz, and get the frak out of there the first chance they got. If not...well, he'd just have to go get them himself and kick the Twins' heads in for making him do it.

"Windcharger," Ironhide said eventually. "I want you to watch fer any word from the Twins or Jazz. You hear word one, I want a recall lock on all three o' em. Let's get those protoforms home, and find out what Jazz learned."

Command Deck

Bumblebee took the report from Ironhide and began to read it over. Like Smokescreen had said everything looked in over and his analysis of the virus seemed accurate. Although he was not as talented computer whiz as Smokescreen, he at least was familiar enough with the systems he was responsible for to know when everything was in order. Satisfied with his own review of the report he handed it back to Ironhide, who was now sitting in the command chair giving out orders to the gathered 'Bots.

"Sure thing Ironhide. When I'm done we'll have enough observation gear out there to spot an Insecticon on the moon!" The yellow minibot said to his commander with a grin. Although that was a great exaggeration on Bumblebee's part he did plan on at the very least doubling what they already had deployed. He turned and began to walk to the door of the command deck, heading for the exit hatch of the Ark that lead to the surface. "Come on Smokescreen we got a job to do." Bumblebee said as the door opened in front of him. "We'll grab more of the observation gear and then get to the surface."

The smaller 'Bot was a little eager to finally get out of the Ark and do something. He also wanted to make sure he was away from Ironhide if something went wrong, although the two had been friends for a long time Bumblebee knew the bigger 'Bot had a not so small tempter. Given the way he had been swamped by the others on the command deck Bumblebee knew his commander could snap at any nano and he wanted to give the big bot some time to cool his circuits.

Computer Lab

Wheeljack accepted the device back from Skids and placed it on his work desk. He took out some of his tools and began to work on it, opening it up first and then began to repair the damaged circuits. He wanted to make sure the damage was repaired before he started to make the improvements he had just come up with. However, several of the components had to removed and he careful cut them out and removed them from the device. This was going to take more time then he thought as he had to rebuild those components.

"I'm sure Sideswipe and Sunstreaker will be careful extracting Jazz. I know though both come across as being a bit carefree, but they have been fighting this war just as long as the rest of us, they know what can happen if they get careless. Considering how densely populated this continent is I think it will be difficult not to avoid a fight near a human city. I am more concerned about JAzz getting back with his aft intact."