Hellpits Hospitality

Jhiaxus transmits 'Rook. What is this I hear from the border patrol about unauthorized intruders?' to Rook.

Rook transmits: 'Quicksilver and another checking to see if it is safe for their commanders arrival. I assured them he was safe.'.

Jhiaxus transmits 'I sense a certain ... paranoia ... on Shockwave's part. Hmmmm. Perhaps we should give the unexpected arrivals a demonstration of exactly how we deal with problems.' to Rook.

Rook transmits: 'What would you like me to do?'.

Jhiaxus transmits 'Tell them ... I wish to speak to them personally. To allay their fears, of course.' to Rook.

Rook transmits: 'Wish you to speak to them before the arrival of their commander?'.

Jhiaxus transmits 'Briefly. But they had best not try my patience too long.' to Rook.

Rook enters the throne room, the heavy doors swinging shut afterwards with a slight groan.

Rook strides in with purpose.

Skyflight enters the room at a slow measured pace.

Quicksilver walks into the room, looking about carefully

Rook proceeds up to his commanders throne.

Mono marchs crisply into the room

The retractable walkway covering the smelting pit is drawn back, making anyone who approaches the throne stand back on the other side of the pit. Jhiaxus himself glowers down from his throne at the arrivals, sizing them up with an ominous stare. Somewhere in the shadows of this room, the muted sounds of struggle can be heard, but it's hard to tell what's going on, in the moving shadows.

Rook stops at the edge of the pit.

Mono steps in he immedietly noticees the heat and winces to himself. He shakes his head and looks around the area with a mixture of awe and revulsion

Skyflight looks bored, as if he had seen this all before.

Quicksilver transmits a radio message.
Quicksilver receives a radio message.

Jhiaxus catches Mono's expression, the slightest trace of a smile curling his lips. "Who are these trespassers, Rook? Does Shockwave not trust that the way will be cleared for him upon his arrival?"

Rook gestures to QS. "Quicksilver. The other I have not been introduced to.

Rook says, "I suppose not, commander."

Quicksilver transmits a radio message.

Mono says, "I am AGS co-commander Mono, sir"

Jhiaxus turns the full force of his luminous gaze upon the two individuals he does not recognize. "And why have you come unannounced?"

Mono bows to Jhiaxus ocne again as a sign of respect and from an ancient tradition on how to greet peopel you have never met before

Quicksilver receives a radio message.

Quicksilver says, "Lord Jhiaxus, I am Quicksilver. I was sent by Lord Shockwave to make sure the area was safe for his arrival. A mere formality, I might add - but a necessary one."

Scuffling sounds and the occasional muted metallic clang come from some distant corner of the room, but it's hard to tell from precisely which angle.

Quicksilver receives a radio message.
Quicksilver transmits a radio message.

Jhiaxus rumbles, "I see. So Shockwave does not trust my security measures. I can assure you that I have nothing but our mutal interests in mind, and any attack upon our leader would weaken the entire cause. Do you not agree?"

Quicksilver nods, "I do agree, sir, but it is still a saftey measure."

Quicksilver looks to Rook, "Sir, would you be so kind as to aid another of my compainions here. She is relatively new and does not know her way aroundwell."

Rook says, "Very well."

Rook leaves for the entrance hall as the heavy double doors swing outward with a slight groan.

Rook has left.

Jhiaxus says, "You have called for yet more troops? A bit extreme, I would think. We are, after all, on the same side."

Quicksilver says, "no, sir"

Quicksilver says, "This companion is an observer, a scientist - not a warrior."

Jhiaxus's optics flicker dangerously, though his expression otherwise changes little. "An observer. I see."

Jhiaxus says, "Bring this 'observer' in, then, and I will provide all of you with something to observe."

Quicksilver nods, "Yes, sir."

The sounds of struggle from some indeterminate corner of the room seem to become more frequent and intense.

Mono looks around his optics flickering in the light as he searchs for the the place were the sounds are coming from. He has already desided he most likly won't like the answer if he ever finds out

Jhiaxus observes Mono carefully and smiles very slightly again, a decidedly ominous expression.

Quicksilver says, "I shall go get our friend"

Quicksilver leaves for the entrance hall as the heavy double doors swing outward with a slight groan.

Quicksilver has left.

Jhiaxus makes a silent motion, and one of the polished sentries melts out of the shadows and follows Quicksilver.

Jhiaxus settles comfortably back into his throne, letting his gaze stray toward the bubbling cauldron of the smelting pits, apparently taking no interest in whether his guests are uncomfortable in these surroundings or not.

Rook enters the throne room, the heavy doors swinging shut afterwards with a slight groan.

Rook strides in with purpose.

Mono peels his optics off the corners as they focus back on Jhaixus. He has faced entire Quint legions with only few few soldiers, but this Decepticon makes him increadibly leary, more than the Quints ever did

Nebula enters the throne room, the heavy doors swinging shut afterwards with a slight groan.

Nebula has arrived.

Quicksilver has arrived.

Quicksilver walks into the room, looking about carefully

Quicksilver walks in, with Nebula. He looks towards Jhiaxus, "I apologize for the interruption, sir."

Rook takes his position at the door.

The sentry whom Jhiaxus assigned to accompany Quicksilver strides in last, his heavy warclub swinging slightly at his side as he takes up his position again along one wall.

Jhiaxus rumbles, "Indeed. Next time you will ask permission before you walk through my fortress with such impunity.

Jhiaxus says, "Now then. That demonstration I spoke of. You fear for your leader's safety while he is within my realm?"

Mono looks back and sees Nebula. He backs up so he is with her and Quick

Rook studies the newcomer with veiled intrique.

Jhiaxus motions Nebula forward. "Present this one to me. I would know the names of those in my presence."

Nebula:

Nebula looks around the room, trying to take in everything. She stays near Quicksilver's side, then finally looks up to Jhiaxus for a moment, finding his form oddly familiar.

Quicksilver says, "our commander should be here shortly."

Quicksilver looks to Nebula and mutters to her.

Quicksilver mutters to Nebula: "... wrong?"

Nebula shrugs to Quicksilver, muttering "What do you mean?"

Jhiaxus says, "I grow tired of your evasion, Quicksilver. Even my patience has its limits. You will reply to my questions while you are in my territory."

Nebula follows Jhiaxus's gesture. "I am...Nebula."

Quicksilver turns to Jhiaxus, "I apologize sir."

Rook watches his commander.

The dangerous glow in Jhiaxus' optics dims again just a little as he nods, satisfied.

Quicksilver advances with Nebula slightly, acting as a security blanket almost.

Rook looks relieved when the glow passes.. but only for a moment.

Skyflight looks on with interest.

Something struggles frantically somewhere nearby in the darkness ... something that sounds like muffled cries, very faint, then it fades again....

Rook looks about alertly.

Skyflight pulls out his PDA and points it toward the sounds. He looks at the screen, frowns, then scans again.

Quicksilver stops and looks about, finding the sounds odd in such an area as this.

Jhiaxus seems not to react to the sounds at all. He keeps his attention fixed on the three outsiders, and continues, "While I should be offended that my integrity is being questioned, I will as a gesture of good will, make absolutely clear to you that your leader is in no danger while here."

Quicksilver nods, "Sir. As I said before, it was merely a saftey precaution - especially in case the Autobots were nearby and in ambush."

Nebula turns to face Quicksilver and looks up to him. "Is this Jhiaxus?"

Quicksilver nods, "Based on the reverence he is being given, I would have to say that I believe so, Nebula."

Jhiaxus says, "The Autobots nip at the borders of my realm constantly. So does that infidel to the south, Shadowlord, who has been meaning to take over this territory for years. I hold them all at bay. And when I do get hold of subversive forces, enemies...."

Rook walks further into the room, satisfied all is calm for the moment.

Jhiaxus says, "I deal with them in an unmistakable manner. This is what would happen to anyone who attempted to attack your commander while he was my guest."

Quicksilver transmits a radio message.

Quicksilver watches, curious.

Rook almost grimaces.

Mono watchs with a sinking stomach

Skyflight puts his PDA away, satisfied.

Jhiaxus makes a gesture toward something in the darkness. Several sentries come forward, dragging five struggling, bedraggled Autobots who seem to have been working the mines for a minor eternity. With a respectful nod toward Jhiaxus, the sentries toss the slaves into the scalding cauldron of the smelting pit.

Horrifying screams echo from the depths of the pit as the hapless Transformers are melted alive.

Rook watches with the barest expression of ... hmm you can't tell realy.

Mono steps back and winces

Skyflight looks with clinical interest.

Rook gestures for the sentries to stand at the door, the dirty work done.

Quicksilver winces, but barely, trying to show resiliance to such anguish. He doesn't seem to be succeeding

Jhiaxus watches it all with a calm and satisfied, almost pleased expression, as though taking entertainment from the spectacle.

The screams begin to fade out, as wires and vocal circuitry and vital connections melt.

Nebula steps towards the edge of the pit and peers down onto the surface of the molten material below.

Quicksilver stays next to Nebula, "Be careful. We don't want you falling in."

Skyflight says, "An interesting display. Enlightening to say the least."

Mono says, "yes...back away a bit"

Rook speaks. "As you can see, gentlemen.. and lady.. my commander is a forthright being. Your commander has nothing to fear. His safety is assured."

Jhiaxus lets his gaze linger on the hellish lights of the pit a while longer, as the last traces of these individuals blend into the molten surface, then looks at Quicksilver, Nebula, and Mono in turn. "We cartainly would not want one of you to meet a similar fate. And this is what becomes of those who oppose my will -- who oppose the Decepticon cause. I assure you once again that they are one and the same."

Mono says, "yes...it does illistrate how you can keep this territory so safe"

Mono nods to Jhiaxus, a bit unnerved by his war lord for soem reason he can not put his finger on

Rook says, "Shall I see them out Commander?"

Jhiaxus nods to Mono. "You will find that I am a Decepticon of my word. If I promise you alliance, then you may count on this. If I promise my enemies ruin, they may count on it as well."

Jhiaxus says, "Yes, Rook, escort them out. Let them relay my message to Shockwave."

Quicksilver says, "With all due respect, promises cannot always be kept, sir. Even our Lord, Megatron, is not perfect"

Jhiaxus smiles coldly. "I should be careful of disparaging Megatron so easily, Quicksilver."

Rook stalks out.

Rook leaves for the entrance hall as the heavy double doors swing outward with a slight groan.

Rook has left.

Jhiaxus says, "Skyflight, you will remain a moment."

Quicksilver says, "I am not disparaging him, sir - but as a former Autobot, I know he has not kept good on all promises."

Mono turns as he leaves following Rook, he can't help but spare a glance behind him as if expecting a knife to be driven into his neural spine at any moment

Jhiaxus's optics flicker dangerously.

Nebula looks up towards Jhiaxus again. "May I ask a question?"

Quicksilver turns to Jhiaxus, then to Nebula a moment.

Jhiaxus makes another silent gesture, and two sentries with heavy warclubs step out from the sides of the room to encourage the visitors along. He holds up a hand to stall them, though, and looks to Nebula. "Very well."

Mono hears them not leaving and turns to listen

Nebula says, "I'm just curious--do you have Decepticon subjects working in the mines, or is all the menial labor done by Autobot slaves?"

Mono shivers with the word 'slave', but is able to conceal it mostly

Jhiaxus says, "When individuals no longer deserve the honor of counting themselves Decepticons, they too become expendable. Does that answer your question?"

Quicksilver stands there, unmoved by the term

Skyflight says, "And who acts as their judge if I might ask?"

Quicksilver seems like he wants to say, but doesn't

Jhiaxus says, "Sometimes I am the judge. Sometimes another territorial commander. In the past, Megatron himself. There are actions for which there can be no forgiveness, as you will surely agree. The mines have proved to be a convenient repository at times. Sometimes the sentance is temporary, and sometimes--"

Jhiaxus indicates the scalding pit at the base of his throne to finish the thought.

Nebula says, "I suppose it does. It seems like your operation offers a more productive alternative than simply trashing our enemies on the battlefield. I commend you."

Quicksilver says, "I do have to say that I find smelting another Cybertronian, regardless of faction, offensive."

Quicksilver receives a radio message.

Jhiaxus says, "You are welcome to find it offensive. Now leave me."

Jhiaxus transmits 'Escort this group back to where they belong, Rook. I grow weary of their presence.' to Rook.

Quicksilver says, "why smelt them when it is simpler to reprogram them?"

Jhiaxus rumbles ominously, "Do not question my methods. They have kept the peace here for a good number of years."

Quicksilver shrugs and then looks at his radio, "AH. It seems our commander is finally arriving"

Rook has arrived.

Skyflight shakes his head. "You cannot reprogram Autobots sucessfully."

Rook stands at the door, awaiting to escort the Cons out.

Rook makes gestures to the sentries. Who move to help them to leave.

Jhiaxus says, "Rook, take this group back up to the defense platform. If Shockwave is on his way, you can meet him there."

Quicksilver seems to take offense to that, "Really. You would have a hard time convincing me of that given that, until a year ago, I was an Autobot.

Nebula studies Rook for a few moments, then begins heading for the massive doorway.

Rook inclines his head.

Jhiaxus transmits 'And watch this Quicksilver especially carefully. He makes too much of his past allegiances.' to Rook.

Rook receives a radio message.

Rook returns the female's look briefly."You are wearing your welcome thin Quicksilver."

Quicksilver shrugs and starts leaving, "It is a very intruiging fortress you have, otherwise, sir. I do hope that your visit with Commander Shockwave goes well."

Quicksilver salutes, "Hail, Megatron."

A sentry gruffly shows QS the door.

Nebula steps out.

Jhiaxus makes no reply, simply watches them in silence.

Nebula leaves for the entrance hall as the heavy double doors swing outward with a slight groan.
Nebula has left.

Rook has left.

Mono has left.

Quicksilver has left.

Skyflight settles back on a pillar.

Jhiaxus hits a control button on the side of his armrest and the walkway stretches back across the smelting pit so that Skyflight can approach if he wants to.

Rook transmits: 'I hope your meeting with Shockwave goes better.'.

Skyflight strides over, hands behind his back.

Rook transmits: 'Speaking of which, he is here.'.

Jhiaxus transmits 'They received the message I wished to transmit.' to Rook.

Jhiaxus transmits 'You can show him in momentarily. I have a few words to exchange with Skyflight first.' to Rook.

Jhiaxus says, "Skyflight. Has your research progressed in the last hours?"

Rook transmits: 'It seems Shockwave wishes his troops to stay.'.

Jhiaxus transmits 'They can accompany him. He is to be shown every courtesy.' to Rook.

Skyflight says, "Very little. I have no hard data on the energy discharges, nor any way to collect it at will. I have made some strides in the conversion process, based on the data I do have. I estimate it will take four to seven more readings to complete the process."

Jhiaxus says, "This conversion process ... what can be done to speed the results?"

Skyflight says, "I am unclear as to your meaning. Are you asking how I can perfect the process more radiply?"

Jhiaxus says, "I am."

Skyflight thinks for a moment. "Unkown. I must gather more data, and that means tracking more energy discharges. You might increase activiy in the lower portions of the mines, where I have more sensors and the discharges are more likely."

Jhiaxus says, "And if you had better equipment, more workspace -- would this be of benefit?"

Skyflight says, "I think I have all that I need. I simply lack the data to crunch the right formulas. If there are no more energy discharges at all, I will need addtional resources to extract the correct process from the crystals themselves."

Jhiaxus says, "Resources. I see. Perhaps something could be arranged. Speak to me after Shockwave's visit."

Rook transmits: 'May we enter'.

Jhiaxus transmits 'Enter.' to Rook.

Shockwave enters the throne room, the heavy doors swinging shut afterwards with a slight groan.

Shockwave has arrived.

Skyflight says, "I am very confident that it will not be needed. If what I surmise from the old records is correct.."

Skyflight breaks off as he spots his Commander.

Nebula enters the throne room, the heavy doors swinging shut afterwards with a slight groan.

Nebula has arrived.

Jhiaxus makes a surreptitions gesture to Skyflight, demanding silence, as the door opens.

Nebula stands by Shockwave's side.

Shockwave comes walking in with Rook escorting him and the rest of his gathered troops follow. His optic flashes as he catches the tail end of this converstation. He makes his way over towards Jhiaxus' throne and gives him a respectable salute, "Greetings, Commander Jhiaxus."

Skyflight heads down the steps and stands with his fellow Cons.

Quicksilver has arrived.

Mono has arrived.

Jhiaxus glowers down from the heights of his throne for a few long, silent moments, as though to establish the fact that this is indeed his realm and the others are guests here, no matter how high-status they may be. Then he stands and descends the stairs with slow, deliberate motions until he stands on the walkway before Shockwave.

Jhiaxus brings a closed fist to his chest in a Decepticon salute. "I bid you welcome, Lord Shockwave. It is an honor to have the opportunity to meet you, at last."

Skyflight realizes he standing right next to Shockwave, and moves further toward the back.

Shockwave drops the salute and crosses his powerful arms against his chest. His optic shimmers as he nods, "It is good to see to the current operations that are taking place here personally, since the Autobots have made a few hit and run raids."

Quicksilver leaves for the entrance hall as the heavy double doors swing outward with a slight groan.

Quicksilver has left.

Mono salutes Jh, he looks around a bit nervously

Jhiaxus says, "I understand you have had some concerns over your safety while a guest here. I can assure you that there will be no problems. However, I would request that your troops remain together with you, so that everything remains under control. This is a remote region, there are enemies to all sides, and I would not want anything unfortunate to occur."

Jhiaxus says, "For this reason I assign sentries to accompany you and your entourage at all times. A precaution."

A loud beep is heard from Skyflight's general location.

Jhiaxus shoots an annoyed look at Skyflight over the irritating sound.

Mono jsut stands there looking at the Warlored

A hologram shimmers into being near Skyflight, showing a bright, disorienting light. It fades out almost immediately, leaving a scene of frightened slaves.

Jhiaxus says, "I would invite you on a tour of the mines, Lord Shockwave, to see for yourself-- Skyflight, what is the meaning of this?"

Shockwave nods slowly and even if it has been over a year he has yet to become used to such accomidations. His optic flashes as he intones, "Those with me are those responsible enough to control their urges. The slave I speak of shall be delievered to you in the next cycle. I was having our medical units make sure he is unable to escape or set free any other slaves. It would interest you to hear of the information that I gained from this valuable Autobot. The information from his memory core is true that Megatron and Optimus Prime are either dead or barely functioning. Due to our energon shortage I am considering constructing a becon to hail them."

Rook transmits: 'Apologies Commander. I am having /difficulties/ with one of them.'.

Rook transmits: 'They are leaving now.'.

Skyflight takes out his PDA and hastily punches a button. The hologram fades from view. "My apologies. I had my holographic display set to alert me if there was another.. Incident."

Rook stalks in, looking none too pleased.. his fingers flex from fist to relaxed hand.. showing is obvious frustration.

Jhiaxus's optics flash once, a silent warning. "Skyflight, please keep your esoteric readings for later discussion. And Rook, I trust you have everything under control?"

Rook replies in a very controlled voice. "Yes Commander."

Sentries take positions around the room. Especially by the door.

Jhiaxus returns his attention to Shockwave. "I should like to discuss the information from this slave with you in private, but for now I would invite you and your entourage to view our production, our realm. Provided there are no further interruptions?" He directs this last question at Skyflight.

Rook flexes his fingers some more, his agitation showing only there.

Skyflight says, "I can not promise that, but I will keep my holographic display deactivated."

Shockwave's optic shimmers as he looks at Skyflight with some interest. His attention is then settled back on Jhiaxus as he intones, "I would be interested in seeing the mines."

Jhiaxus says, "Once again, for the sake of precaution, I ask that you keep your troops together and within the protective range of my sentries. Rook will lead the way into the mines."

Jhiaxus gestures respectfully for Shockwave to go ahead of him.

Rook strides out.

Rook leaves for the entrance hall as the heavy double doors swing outward with a slight groan.

Jhiaxus hangs back as Rook takes the lead, stepping close to Skyflight briefly.

Shockwave unfolds his arms. He nods and brings his fist up to his chest in a Decepticon salute. He drops his salute and follows Rook out.

Shockwave has left.

mutter Skyflight=I don't know what that little display was about, but keep your sensors on. I would hate to have an unpleasant incident without any forewarning.
Jhiaxus mutters to Skyflight: "... ... ... ... that ... ... was about ... keep ... sensors ... ... would hate to have an unpleasant ... without ... forewarning."

Nebula tags along behind Shockwave, silently observing her surroundings.

The heavy double doors swing outward with a slight groan, letting you pass into the entrance hall.

Entrance Hall

Nebula has arrived.

Rook walks with briskness.

Skyflight enters the room at a slow measured pace.

Jhiaxus takes up a position alongside Shockwave, allowing Rook to continue to lead the way.

Rook leaves through the reinforced doorway to the passage beyond.

Shockwave leaves through the reinforced doorway to the passage beyond.

Nebula leaves through the reinforced doorway to the passage beyond.

The door swings open to let you pass.

Stone Passage

Skyflight emerges through the reinforced doorway from the passage beyond.

Rook continues his brisk walk.

Sentries move out of his way. REALLY fast

Rook continues downward through the cold, dim tunnel.

Skyflight has his PDA out, scanning.

Shockwave follows alongside Rook and Jhiaxus. His optic flickers as his gaze is passes some slaves or prisoners.

Nebula extends an arm to the wall's surface and feels the stones beneath her fingers as she decends.

Shockwave continues downward through the cold, dim tunnel.

Nebula continues downward through the cold, dim tunnel.

You continue downward through the cold, dim tunnel.

Cell

Jhiaxus says, "This is a convenient passage to and from the mines. There are other entrances, of course."

Skyflight comes into view in the sloping tunnel.

Rook gestures vaguely to some sentries at the mine entry. They step aside. He proceeds in, still walking briskly.

Rook enters the Shaft.
Rook has left.

Shockwave nods to Jhiaxus as his optic flashes, "Yes there is one at the surface that I am aware of."

Shockwave enters the Shaft.

Nebula enters the Shaft.

You enter the Shaft.

Shaft

Skyflight arrives from the Cell.

Rook slows down the pace slightly. Sentries from below take position along the halls.

Jhiaxus glances at his subcommander with a flicker of curiousity, reading something in his stance and movements that he wonders about, but will ask about it at a more convenient time.

Rook 's finger flex one last time, into tight fists.

Rook procceds north.

Rook continues passing sentries posted along the route.

Skyflight's PDA is making a lot of noise.

Jhiaxus seems to be unconcerned about the many passages and tunnels that lead in all directions in this underground, knowing the way well, and being confident his subcommander does too.

Rook stalks north.

Rook enters the Maze.

Nebula enters the Maze.

You enter the Maze.

Maze

Skyflight arrives from the Shaft.

Shockwave arrives from the Shaft.

Shockwave enters the Central Shaft.

Jhiaxus shoots a brief glare at the noise from Skyflight's equipment.

Sentries stand at the tunnel branches.

Skyflight looks to the north, as if eager to see something there.

Rook continues north, unrelenting in his walk.

Rook enters the Central Shaft.

You enter the Central Shaft.

Central Shaft

Nebula arrives from the Maze.

Skyflight arrives from the Maze.

Shockwave enters the Main Workpit.

Rook stalks north yet again, sentries following us now.

Rook enters the Main Workpit.

Skyflight arrives from the Central Shaft.

Nebula arrives from the Central Shaft.

Rook gestures to the sentries in the area.

You enter the Main Workpit.

Main Workpit

Staked Prisoners:

Empty Stake:

Shockwave continues to walk along side Rook and Jhiaxus. His armor begins to emit small water dropplets. Optic flashing he looks at the prisoners, and then over towards the other two Decepticons that came with him.

Jhiaxus enters one of the main workpits, noticing the disarray, the slaves being decidedly unproductive, and the sentries getting it all back under control, using some very forceful tactics.

Nebula catches the glint of something on the ground. She bends over and picks up a 12"-long quadrilithium crystal and examines it closely.

Skyflight is scanning with his PDA, the personal holographic display flickering images radpily across his features.

[OOC] Jhiaxus says, "Look at the empty stake too, that's why the prisoners are in such disarray."

Skyflight walks over to the empty stake, running his PDA up and down it's length.

Jhiaxus strides forward, catching the immediate attention of the closest guards. He issues a series of commands, and they hurry to get the situation back under control.

Skyflight mutters to himself. "Yes, right here, that would be right."

Slowly, before the eyes of those watching, the slaves begin to settle down and get back to work, but they keep shooting nervous glances at their surroundings. The sentries stand over them threateningly, their weaponry in plain view.

Shockwave looks at the preperations that were made for his visit. His optic flashes as he calmly intones, "Highly impressive and it is good to see the moral of any prisoner is kept at extreme lows."

Nebula diverts her gaze over to the commotion.

Jhiaxus turns to Shockwave. "A little upheaval every now and again. It happens, when you have rabble such as this as workers. As you see, it is easily controled again."

Skyflight goes over to Rook and mutters quietly.

Shockwave nods to Jhiaxus as he examines the empty stake, "Yes it is easily seen that these workers are easily controled even if a small quarl should happen."

Jhiaxus smiles slightly. "So you see, there is no cause for concern. While it is true that there have been one or two incursions by Autobot forces of late, I have doubled the guard and there will be no further problems."

Jhiaxus says, "Your supplies of quadrilithium are in no immediate danger."

Jhiaxus slightly stresses the word "immediate", checking if perhaps Shockwave will catch it.

Skyflight throws a look at Jhiaxus.

Shockwave catches Jhiaxus as he stresses the word immediate, "That has yet been proven with an estimated 5 hit and run raids by the Autobots."

Jhiaxus rumbles, "No, I refer to another matter entirely. One I would discuss with you in private."

Jhiaxus says, "I would invite you and your entourage to spend the night at my fortress as guests -- I will give you the use of my private quarters, and Rook will see to the others in the barracks."

Shockwave nods to Jhiaxus as he looks over at Nebula and nods again, "Yes, that is something that does need to be discussed."

Rook looks like he is in no mood for shinanigans.. or mutters.

Jhiaxus indicates the way out. "Then, shall we proceed?"

Nebula holds the crystal she found up to the light, then turns to face Jhiaxus. She hesitantly asks, "May I keep this? I've never seen unprocessed quadrilithium before.", waiting a moment after he last spoke so as not to seem like she's interrupting him.

Jhiaxus pauses and looks back, regarding Nebula curiously.

Skyflight says, "A moment of caution, if you please."

Jhiaxus's grim expression shifts very slightly into the trace of a smile. "Certainly. Consider it a memento of the Hellpits."

Skyflight runs his PDA over the crystal, then nods in satisfaction. "It is clean."

Jhiaxus indicates to his subcommander to lead the way out again.

A smile forms across Nebula's lips. "Thank you, Sir."

Rook leads the way, briskly again.

Rook enters the Central Shaft.
Rook has left.

Nebula handles the crystalline structure carefully so that it doesn't shatter.

Nebula nods to Skyflight.

Skyflight follows Rook.

Skyflight enters the Central Shaft.
Skyflight has left.

You enter the Central Shaft.

Rook enters the Maze.

Skyflight enters the Maze.

Nebula enters the Maze.

Shockwave enters the Maze.

You enter the Maze.

Skyflight acts bored, barely glancing at his surroundings, as if knowing it already.

Rook enters the Shaft.

Nebula enters the Shaft.

Skyflight enters the Shaft.

You enter the Shaft.

You move upward through the cold, dim passage.

Stone Passage

The door swings open to let you pass.

Entrance Hall

Nebula has arrived.

Skyflight has arrived.
Skyflight enters the room at a slow measured pace.

Shockwave steps in from the outside corridor.
Shockwave has arrived.

The ubiquitous polished sentries close and bolt the door securely after everyone is back inside.

Shockwave looks at Nebula from the enterance of his tempoary quarters. His optic flashes as he intones, "She may accompany me in my chambers, since the others have decided to leave for Darkmount or Polyhex."

Nebula holds the crystal up to the light for a moment, then tucks it away in a convenient storage cavity in her torso.

Jhiaxus says, "As you prefer. I trust you will find the accomodations suitable. Do not hesitate to contact Rook, should you require anything."

Nebula says, "I found your tour most interesting."

Jhiaxus nods to Nebula. "It is merely a portion of my holdings, and a small territory, but its resources are vital. I do my part to keep the empire running."

Shockwave nods as his optic flashes, "This tour was rather interesting and I have contacted Darkmount to have Delta Ultima transported to the enterance of the maze...unless you are interested in interrogating this Autobot."

Jhiaxus says, "He is most useful being put to work, I'm sure. I should like to learn the details of what you got out of him tomorrow."

Jhiaxus waits for his guests to withdraw into their quarters for the night.

Skyflight heads toward the repair bay to get some work done.

Shockwave looks at Nebula and awaits for her to retreat to either his chambers or the barracks.

Nebula heads towards Shockwave's quarters, and turns to see if he's following.

Shockwave turns and follows Nebula to the large doors down the third corridor.

Shockwave enters the corridor leading to the warlord's quarters.
Shockwave has left.

Skyflight enters the corridor leading to the repair bay.
Skyflight has left.

Nebula enters the corridor leading to the warlord's quarters.
Nebula has left.

You move through the stone corridor leading to the repair bay.

Repair Bay

Shockwave transmits: 'I have an outside matter to attend to. I shall be returning shortly to the mountain fortress.'.

Jhiaxus transmits 'I will assign a sentry to accompany you to the borders of my realm.' to Shockwave.

Jhiaxus enters the repair bay to seek out Skyflight.

Skyflight sits working at a slightly outdated console, feeling more at home with it than some of the newer designs.

Jhiaxus stalks over toward the console. He demands, "What was this all about, earlier? All those warning sounds from your scanner were highly inopportune!"

Skyflight turns around, not startled by Jhixaus' appearance. "Yes, as was the timing of the last burst. I apologize for the poor timing. I felt it was wiser to be forewarned of a possible discharge."

Jhiaxus growls, "What happened?"

Skyflight says, "As best as I can surmise, somehow one of the prisoners you impaled was taken by the discharges, either consumed or transported somehow. My scanner picked up a residual pattern in the walls, persumably an energy discharge moving directly above us. I would count us lucky to be functioning."

Jhiaxus glares. "I do hope you're not going to tell me to shut down the mines again."

Skyflight says, "No, nor would I presume to tell you to do anything. I would not want to risk the lives of the loyal guards down there, but I presume you have other priorities."

Jhiaxus emphasizes, "I do not throw away my underlings' lives uselessly. But there remain tasks to be completed."

Jhiaxus says, "If you were to track down the source of these ... discharges, as you call them - could you stop them at the source? Could you convert them to a fuel source, as you say?"

Skyflight says, "The discharges themselves, no. Only the crystal by-products. I.. have some idea of where to begin looking for the source of these discharges, but without proper preparation, such a task would be futile. Once I have cracked the structure and function of both the crystals and dsichrges, we will be able to stop them for good."

Jhiaxus says, "And ... make them useful. Correct?"

Skyflight says, "The crystals, yes."

Jhiaxus says, "Hmmm."

Jhiaxus's optics darken as he withdraws momentarily into his own thoughts.

Jhiaxus decides then, "Come with me. There is something you should see."

Jhiaxus turns away and walks out, confident he'll be followed.

Skyflight frowning, taps some keys to shut down the terminal and gets up, servos whining in protest.

You head out into the corridor toward the center of the fortress.

Entrance Hall

Skyflight steps in from the outside corridor.
Skyflight enters the room at a slow measured pace.

The heavy double doors swing outward with a slight groan, letting you pass into the throne room.

Throne Room

Skyflight enters the room at a slow measured pace.

Jhiaxus crosses the walkway that stretches over the smelting pit, but instead of climbing the stairs to the throne, he circles around the base of the platform and disappears into the darkness behind it. Since he hasn't told Skyflight to keep back, it can be assumed that he still expects to be followed.

Skyflight arrives in the throne room, looking around for something he has't seen before.

Hidden in the deepest shadows behind the throne platform, a barely detectable panel in the wall responds only to a series of mechanical activation codes.

Skyflight follows, a worried expression on his face.

Jhiaxus waits for Skyflight to join him, then reaches out toward the wall behind the throne platform. With very close attention, the barest outline of a sliding panel becomes apparent.

Skyflight looks at this with interest, but no surprise.

Jhiaxus shifts his weight so that one wing blocks Skyflight's view of the activation panel, and quickly enters the code.

Skyflight grins at this, though behind Jhiaxus' back.

The almost invisible hatch slides open.

You step into the near-complete darkness of a narrow passage that slopes sharply downward, eventually forming itself into rough-hewn stairs beneath your feet. Just when the winding descent threatens to become endless, you detect a faint light up ahead.

Laboratory

Skyflight steps carefully out of the open wall panel.
Skyflight enters the room at a slow measured pace.

Jhiaxus steps forward into the cluttered room and turns to observe Skyflight's reaction.

Skyflight looks around, with a look of not- quite nostalgia.

Jhiaxus says, "So you see, I do have some more extensive facilities to offer you. We may be a little behind the times, not quite up to Darkmount standards out here - but I believe some of this equipment will be servicable."

Skyflight says, "Fascinating. Is that a beta- drive wave collator? I invented that.."

Jhiaxus says, "Good, then you will know how to use it. It's been gathering dust, all these years."

Skyflight says, "One of my youthful projects. The thing never did work right.."

Jhiaxus says, "Hmph. And I'm letting it take up shelf space. Useless junk from a dead world...."

Skyflight shakes his head as if to clear the distractions. "Yes, I believe I can use some of this. Particularly if I can use Darkmount's computers from here."

Skyflight raises the metal plate above an optic sensor. "Well, perhaps not useless, just with a few flaws."

Jhiaxus too, shakes himself loose from his dark musings, and replies, "There are certain transmission problems -- the mountains block a lot of the signals. I suppose you could boost the signal somehow. You will have to discuss that with Rook."

Skyflight nods. "This will make it much easier to work, without having to go back to Darkmount to run material tests."

Jhiaxus says, "Perhaps you will find information of use in these texts, also."

Jhiaxus points to the shelves of ancient text cartridges.

Skyflight says, "Perhaps, though I have already gleaned what I need to know from the records you gave me. Although.. I did not come across any previous attempts to refine the crystals, perhaps there are some notes here."

Jhiaxus nods. "If you prove yourself to be trustworthy, I will provide you with the access code to this room. Until then, you will have to inform me or Rook when you need to come down here. And, as I said, if you provide me with results, I will see that you are well rewarded. I always pay what I owe -- in any capacity."

Skyflight sits down, and begins going through the old carts. "408 units. I haven't used these in I do not know how long. I shall endevor to prove worhty of that trust. "

Jhiaxus says, "Two more things I must impress upon you. One, that the lives of my troops are not expendable, even if you seem to judge me that way. There is no time to be lost in this. And two - do not even attempt to get through any of the locked doors."

Jhiaxus's optics flicker toward the bolted doorway to the south.

Skyflight says, "I am willing to be convinced in the first matter. As to the second : I seldom can resist such a challenge, but I shall endevor to make an exception in this case."

Skyflight's sparkle with humor, a rare thing.

Jhiaxus doesn't seem to catch the humor, and replies, "You had better. It would be a shame for you to end up in the smelting pit."

Skyflight says, "I have not survived so mamy millions of years only to die for a childish whim. You may rely on me."

Jhiaxus regards him in silent scruitiny for a moment, then turns away. "I will leave you to make use of what you can here. You will find the way out accessible, but you will not be able to get back in without assistance. Contact me if you come upon anything I should know about."

Skyflight says, "I shall. Good fortune to you, Lord Jhixaus."

A narrow, doorless opening in one corner of the lab seems to lead to a stone staircase that climbs sharply upward.

Jhiaxus's luminous-green gaze flickers back toward Skyflight for just an instant, then he enters the passage leading to the stairway upward.