(A/N Hey, everyone sorry for the late update. It's so hard to think of some ideas, when I watch this episode. I was confused where the Nemesis ship is either in space or back on Earth when I saw Ratchet and Predaking. So, to let you know this is a remake, okay? Anyway Enjoy)

Back in the Base

While Raf and Wheeljack were almost finishing the touch, Optimus was staring at the sky, still worried about Nova's safety. He knows that she is strong but who knows Megatron might do something to her. Ultra Magnus walked up to him and asked, "Are you still worried about her, sir?"

Optimus turned to him, "I'm afraid so.....I just hope she is alright."

"I do as well.....even though It was revealing to think she was the Herald. I have a query; How did she came to be?"

Optimus sighed as he began to explained about Nova's past where she was once raised to be an assassin by an evil organization, MECH. Where all her life she knows nothing but her mission and betrayal. Until, Dr. Login help her and taught her to live which encourage Nova to decide her own path. Ultra Magnus seems stunned by her past as he said, "To think....she endured so much in the past."

" Yes, at first she believed she lost faith in humanity until Dr. Login was the reason that made her want to live on. Therefore, it is a way of repaying the debt to her and atoning the crimes she committed." Optimus added. That's when Smokescreen and Bumblebee walked up to them, who happen to heard their conversation.

Smokescreen said, "Yeah, when I first met her and told me about her origin. I couldn't believe it either. I may not know why she was chosen but....I think Nova wanted to do everything in her power to end this war."

"It was a wonder how Primus chose her to be the Herald." Ultra Magnus questioned. 

Bumblebee added,"While Optimus was...missing, Nova took charge of our team, keeping us together as we tried to look for you and giving us hope and advice when we needed it the most, even if it was to yell at us to stop acting like fools. Because of her, she was the glue that kept our team from falling apart."

Optimus was surprised to hear that but pleased all the same. He was proud to think Nova watched over his team during his absence. She became important to her teammates. Ultra Magnus turned to him, "You are fortunate...to have Nova on your side. You should be proud."

Optimus replied, "I already did."

Raf called, "It's done!!"

Later, Fowler, Jack, Miko, Raf and the 'bots stood outside, Raf's machine ready to be launched. Fowler looked it over, frowning. "You sure we don't need to install a GPS on our scout here?"

Wheeljack looked down at him, shaking his helm slightly. "Too risky. Both sides are getting real good at rooting out that kind of trick."

Smokescreen nodded, "Besides, we don't need a tracker."

Campy stayed on his shoulder as Raf held his remote tightly, looking to where Optimus was approaching them. "We have Optimus."

Miko looked up at him, frowning. "But won't the 'Cons see you coming, big guy?"

Bulkhead smirked at her, "Not until it's too late."

Bumblebee looked down at Raf, gently rubbing his back. "We're going to get her back, Raf."

Raf looked up at him, noticing the stern expression Bee had. "I know....." He shuddered and looked back down at the ground. "She save my life before....." before lifting his head with determination, "..... now it's my time to save her."

Ultra Magnus watched the two before turning to Optimus. "We'll be prepared for immediate mobilization upon your command, sir."

Smokescreen smiled up at his leader, "Good luck, Optimus."

Arcee nodded, "Be safe."

Bumblebee nodded. "Be safe and let us know if you find any trace of Nova."

Optimus nodded at Bumblebee. "I promise, Bumblebee." He looked to Raf, nodding his helm. "Whatever the outcome, know that Ratchet and Nova would be most proud of your contribution."

Raf felt his heart swell from his words, rubbing at his eyes. "Thank you.."

Wheeljack smiled, winking at the young boy. "Come on, kid. Let's light this thing."

Raf nodded, hitting the button on his remote. They all watched as the little rocket blasted off, Optimus following after it. 'Don't worry, Nova. I'm coming for you. Please , Hold on.'

In the warship

Nova was in the lab, watching Ratchet poured more yellow liquid into a glass while Knockout and Shockwave were busy on their station. Even though Megatron allowed her to roam freely but she won't be fool by his hospitality. He also allowed her to see Ratchet whenever she wants. At least she wants to make sure Ratchet was alright though she wasn't much help now that Ratchet was working with Cybertronian equipment which she's not familiar with. Since she wasn't of much use, she just stood there watching. This gave her time to notice how Knock Out, Shockwave and Soundwave, when they were in the room, stared at her. It was more than curious glances, it was like they were studying her. It did bother her a little. She didn't bring this up to Ratchet, however. He was really stressed and so focused on his work, she didn't want to make it worse. Especially if it was just her imagination.

"Fetch me the quantum-cyber measure." Ratchet asked Knockout.

Knock Out scoffed from his place beside Ratchet, "Do I look like hired help to you, Autobot?"

Ratchet ignored him, going back to pouring more of the liquid. Nova stated from behind, "You better do what he said, Knockout." 

He was about to retort when Shockwave walked up to them, staring down at Knock Out. "Knockout, attend to the needs of our esteemed guest."

Knock Out slumped, mumbling out his agreement to the order. "As you command." He then turned, walking away to get what Ratchet requested. Shockwave placed a slab of Cybermatter on the desk. 

"So we know this cyber-matter to be produced by an atypical molecular displacement reaction?" Ratchet asked

"Extensive empirical evidence indicates the fundamental instability within the synth en formulation to be the cause." Shockwave said

"Double blind analysis?" 

"Naturally. The results only confirmed my original hypothesis. Once the erroneous variable has been corrected for the stabilized synthetic material will bind properly with cyber nucleic acid." 

"In other words; producing a stable form of cyber matter." Nova input without thinking.

The three mechs in the room look at Nova once the words left her mouth. "What?" She questioned. "That's correct. How did you know?" Ratchet asked.

"Hey, I've been hanging out with you too long is all."

"Still it is rather remarkable." Ratchet praised

"Yes. Quite an act of providence." Shockwave added.

"And to think had we not let you destroy the beasts, none of this would be possible." Knockout said while handing over the tool Ratchet needs.

Nova stared at him, realizing what happened when both 'cons reacted badly to what Knock Out said. They let them destroy the beasts.... So it really was a trap all along! She knew she felt bad for a reason.

Ratchet grabbed the tool he needed from him, frowning. "Let?"

Knock Out paused, looking up at Shockwave, before turning to the others and trying to act cool. "Uh, what I meant to say was those specimens you requested earlier aren't going to prepare themselves, are they?"

Shockwave looked down at the two of them. "There is much to do and little time, Doctor." He motioned back to the table. "Shall we get back to work?"

"Certainly." Ratchet replied while looking skeptical. Nova walked towards to him and said softly, "Ratchet, I'm going to head outside and see if I might find a way out of this."

Ratchet turned to her before looking around cautiously and whispered, "Be careful, Nova." which she nodded as she left the lab. Knock out who seems to notice as he mumbled, "To think Megatron allowed her to roam around freely." as he went back to his usual thing.

Nova has been wandering around the hallways, trying to ignore the stares from the vehicons. She knows her way since she has been in the warship during the zombie con outbreak which she wouldn't want to talk about it. There was one thing she noticed that she didn't see Dreadwing or Arachnid anywhere. She wondered what happened to them but decided to let it slide. 

She even attempted to tapped into her abilities which is no use. She hated the inhibitor that prevents her from accessing her power, not even the key of Alpha Trion isn't helping either. She felt frustrated that she can't do anything. While she was strolling, she didn't noticed two vehicons coming her way until both of them saw her. One of the vehicon switched to a blaster as he pointed at her and was about to shoot Nova until the second one stop it.

The 1st vehicon said, "Why did you stop me?"

The 2nd vehicon said, "Didn't you forget? Megatron ordered us not to harm her. If anything happens to her, he'll punished us."

Nova seems to heard them, rolling her dual optics obviously as she continue walking to the left, ignoring the two who were staring at her. Whenever she came across a vehicons, they just back away or bow to her as though it was a greeting. She thought, 'Wow, I guess Megatron did told them to back off. Ugh, being in the dark hallway is making me feel uneasy.'

She made it to the control station (which was outside) as she stared down at Omega Lock that was still under maintenance. To think the Decepticons were able to finish rebuilding it is what surprised Nova. Though she was worried about the position being way above Earth. Aside from feeling upset at Ratchet for agreeing to finish the synthetic energon formula for Megatron, She also felt conflicted. She was a bit upset at his choice no doubt, but she also understand why. She knows that everyone want to see Cybertron restored, as much as she does. She just don't think letting the Decepticons be the one to do it is the right way.

She had a feeling this will end badly.

"Well Well look who it is"

Nova groaned as she turned to see Starscream behind her, with a grin. "To think Megatron would allow a prisoner to roam around the warship. How careless he is." He said.

Nova seems irritated when it comes to Starscream, he is cunning and always find his way to turn the tides. She hated him of all the times he did, perhaps it wouldn't help to have a little payback. "You didn't came all this way to insult me or.....did you just came because Cyclops scared you that much?" Nova taunted.

Starscream felt infuriated as he grabbed her throat and growled, "Listen here you ungrateful brat....you dare insult me. It's pity that you can't access your abilities which made you helpless."

Nova choked from his grip and said weakly, "I may be helpless....." before her face turned to a chilling smile, "But not weak." As she gripped his wrist so hard that made Starscream's released her. She made Starscream kneel on the ground before she looked at him in the optics which made him felt terrified. He noticed her bloodlust look on her eyes and a terrifying smile plastered on her face.

His body trembling in fear when Nova came close to his face and said, "You seem to like gloating so much, how about if I bury my hand down to your voice box and see how you like it? Yeah it would be quite fun." 

As they locked position when she heard footstep coming towards them. They looked up to see Megatron with Soundwave. He said, "I see.....you two have crossed path." 

Nova narrowed her optics at Megatron before Starscream said, still gripped, "Master? Are you going to allow a prisoner to harm another? Master?"

Megatron stared down at Starscream's pitiful state as he looked up to Nova, "Nova, It would be at your best behavior if you do not harm my SIC (second in command). Surely, you do not want anything happen to your....companion, do you not?"

Nova glared at him as she obligingly released Starscream which made him fall on the ground. Starscream stood up, dusting himself clean as though he was relieved to be saved. However, Nova had a mischievous look as she kick his pede from under Starscream, as a result he fell flat on the ground. 

He looked up in disbelief, "You insolent.....you dare harm me."

Nova said sarcastically, placing both her arms behind her, "No....that's not harming.....that's called an accident." she noticed Megatron seems amused by her antics while Starscream growled at her. Nova turned around, stretching her wings which was a good thing the inhibitor didn't locked it. As she flew away from them and headed outside of the Nemesis. Megatron watched her left the station, Starscream walks up to his leader and asked, "Master, Is it wise for her to roam around the ship?"

"There is no need to be alarm, Starscream. As long as she wears the inhibitor, she'll behave besides I have plans for her." Megatron said with a grin.

Nova was sitting on the bellow of the Nemesis (you know one of the horns on front which I'm not sure), staring at Earth. Good thing, there wasn't surveillance there and she can't get back to Earth without any means of protecting her. Sighed a bit before tucking her legs. However, It's not what bother her, She was deeply thinking about something else on her mind. It wasn't about her dream or about the offer but thinking whether to stay on her originated home, Cybertron, once everything was over. Half of her wished to go back to Cybertron while her other half want to remain on Earth. 

"What do I think I should do? What a joke!" Nova sighed sadly. She can't decide which part to choose and now she is feeling conflicted. As she shut her optics, trying to clear her head when a familiar voice spoke beside her.

"Still thinking about your decision."

She turned to see that it was her shadow again but in her human form with blue dull eyes from before, standing beside her with her arms crossed. Nova knows that she was just a hallucination but she is her dark subconscious. "Your still here?" She said nonchalantly. 

 "You should know that I am still a part of you or did you forget?"

"I'm kidding.....I already know you are. I'm not sure why your still here but I think you appeared before me for a reason."

"Perhaps....also it is not good to keep the questions to yourself.  You have to tell them eventually."

"True,  Still I can't get my mind off my decision. Optimus is my guardian and a father to me, I don't know if I'm feeling glad that I know where I came from but I'm not sure if I want to leave Earth."

Her shadow stared at Nova carefully until she asked, "Do you really wished to live on Cybertron?"

Nova replied, "Well, as long as Optimus and his team are there then I'll be fine."

"Are you sure is that what you want?"

"What? What do you mean?"

"Remember, I'm you and I know everything about you. You wished to be with them but deep down you don't want to leave Earth. It was the planet you were born, where you were raised by a kind human who taught the difference between right or wrong. "

Nova didn't answered because she felt speechless, to think her dark reflection told her the truth. Her shadow continue, "Beside, Didn't Login said to you before? You belong to no one but yourself. You were given a choice and never let anyone decide for you. You are yourself, not just a Herald or an Autobot or anything else. You are Nova Login."

Nova thought about it before she chuckled, "Huh, to think my subconscious giving me the talking."

"Why not? you are the one who needed answer and a little push."

"Hm.....I guess I'll think about it. But not right now....."

"I see....Then, Take the time you need."

As both of them stared back at Earth, She did admired the beauty and the life grow on that planet. It was the first time she sees Earth this close, she seen computer image but nothing compared to it. "If I hadn't met the Autobots, I would have end up walking on the wrong path, like Megatron."Nova stated

" Indeed....Though, How long will you keep up the facade? Beside, you won't be able to fool Megatron much longer. Its only matter of time he might do something diabolic."

"I know....I'll just have to find another way, for now I have to be patient."

"I see...Well, Good luck." Her shadow dropped her arms before she faded away. "Till all are one." Her voice echoed in her mind. Nova shut her optics with a thought and mumbled, "I hope we could end this war soon." While she was lost in thought, she sense something in front of her as she opened her optics, only to be startled by Lazerbeak. Nova complained, "Did anyone tell you it's rude to sneak up on anyone?"

Lazerbeak didn't respond.

Nova groaned, facepalming herself before she said, "Let me guess.....I'm needed back in the ship."

It nodded which made Nova groaned again before getting up and flew back inside with Lazerbeak following her. Nova landed inside where Sounwave was there as she watched Lazerbeak attached into his torso. Nova crossed her arms and asked, "So.....what did Megatron want?"

Soundwave didn't replied, instead he brought something out, revealing a liquid energon cube. Nova stared at him with confusedly, "Uh What am I going to do with it?"

Soundwave tilted his head before it showed an image of a man drinking his soda drink until it went back to his screen face. Nova blinked at him with realization.

"Oh no, I ain't drinking that cube." Nova said, crossing her arms but unfortunately her stomach gave away. She hasn't been eaten quite awhile since she's up in space. Soundwave replayed the order, in Megatron's voice, "Soundwave, make sure our certain guest is refueled."

She knew Megatron must have ordered him to feed her but Energon, is different. She has eaten earth good but she never drank Energon before. Though, she did saw her teammates drank it and did mention it's devastated to humans. She wondered if it might harm her? She is part human and part Cybertronian after all. Since she is stuck in her Titan Mode, no thanks to the inhibitor.

Soundwave who still holding the cube as he pointed at it then at Nova, much to her annoyance.  "Alright... Alright... Fine, I'll drink it up." Nova complained, snatching the cube from his servo.

Nova stared cautiously at the glowing substance inside for a second as she sniffed and inspect the energon before taking an experimental sip. A sweet, energetic taste flooded her senses and she jerked back with a surprised gasp. If she had ever taken a guess as to what energon might taste like, this was not it. Its taste was incomparable to any earth food she had ever tasted. It was clean like water, but sweet and cloying like candy. It was tasteless, yet spicy. Thinking slightly on the taste made her realize that it reminded her strangely of copper and pennies somehow.

Nova noticed Soundwave observing her as she whirled her body around and stated, "It's not bad...." before she muttered, "....thank you."

Soundwave nodded back at her. Nova hate to admit that she never knew Energon could be this good. She sat at the edge of the Nemesis where the Omega Lock is located while Soundwave stood there, still observing which she is not comfortable but didn't bother her. She raised the cube to her lips and sipped again, eager to experience the strange taste again. Her stomach, or tank she supposed was the term, grumbled loudly at how slowly she was consuming the sustenance. Nova had to consciously fight the urge to guzzle her Energon. It just tasted so wonderful. Tilting her head back and holding the cube in both hands, she drained the last drop from the cube and set it down with a satisfied sigh. 

'I can see how my teammates drank this stuff.' Nova said thoughtfuly, staring at the empty cube.

After finishing her cube, Soundwave took the empty cube and heading back to the door before turning to her. Nova stared at him and realizing it was telling to follow him. She rolled her dual optics as she decided to comply. She stood up and followed Soundwave into the hallway, ignoring the stares from the vehicons passing by.

Nova was guided back to the room (you know where they held Ratchet before) where Megatron was waiting for her while Soundwave left the room. Nova looked around and noticed that Starscream wasn't there, guess he still questioned his loyalty. Megatron asked, "How was your stay in my ship?"

Nova said nonchalantly, "Well, at least you kept your word about not harming Ratchet, and the Omega Lock seems to be nearly complete. I say.....it was quite pleasant."

"Once Omega Lock is finished, we will finally able to used it to restore Cybertron."

Nova watched him closely before saying, "......You didn't bring me here to tell me that, are you? There's something else...."

Megatron said with a grin, "It's good you asked.....you see, I know you wish for the Earth to be spared. However.......Why rule only one world when I could rule two?"

Nova knew he finally show his true colors would showed and said, "Typical, for warlord....you never keep promises. I knew I was right to keep my guard up. Once that Ratchet finishes the formula, you'll get rid of us.  You may have deceived Ratchet but didn't fool me. I did say I would trust you, doesn't mean I take your word for it." 

"You should know Nova, that I have plans for you." He started as he narrows his optics at her.  

"Whatever it was, don't bother trying to sway me with words."

"Then Tell me, Why do you continue to fight for the humans?"

Nova seems taken back by his questions as he continued, "You are not like the other humans, and they took everything from you. After all, the humans had done to you and yet you walk among them and protected them. And why? For them? the things you have committed? Do you actually believe they will accept you?"

Nova didn't say anything as Megatron move closer to her and added, "Can't you see? None of them will ever understand you as I can. You are better than any other humans. You are superior to them. We both shared a power spring from the same source. I can offer you a place in my side where you will not be invisible. You, as the Herald on our side... together we can bring order to this chaotic universe."

Nova was too stunned to answer.

 "But of course, to make that a reality, you just have to join me and obey my every command and swear your loyalty to me." He informed as he has a small glint in his optics.

She lowered her gaze from his optics. "How do I know that you won't betray me once you have Earth under your rule?"

"You are much more valuable to me alive. Even when I rule both Earth and Cybertron, I would not kill or betray you."

Nova didn't know what to say when the thought that he was offering her the chance to unlock her full potential and something about that scared her. The fact was that she really, really liked the idea of having power and becoming someone important. 

Megaton smiled down at her, the smile not looking quite right...it wasn't warm and true like Optimus. He placed one hand on her small shoulder and she wanted to flinch away at his touch.

"You will come to find in time, that you and I are not so different."

At first Nova tried not to listen but it seemed true. 

Both of them shared a similar background.

Both had time in the fight, forced to take up arms to survive.

Both lived by the rules of survival, knowing it was either kill or be killed.

Both had fought to make a living.

Both tried to be more honorable in our ways than those around them.

Both kept others at arm's length, knowing that putting trust in the wrong person could be fatal.

Both feared by others.

Both sought justice.

Both saw the world for what it really was and knew its corruption and harsh reality better than others.

The only difference between them now were the choices they had made in the end. While Megatron had thought that justice and change would only be brought about through force, inevitably starting a war that had destroyed his home because he thought killing and slaughter was the answer. She had taken a more passive route, still fighting  but never once taking a life.

They had come from mightily similar backgrounds, but their ideals were what differentiated them. All her life she known nothing, but horror and fear her entire life. She had fought and slayed but never been shown any form of care.However, Nova seen Login cherished her home so much that she wanted to help people. Although, her dreams would never came true but she did save one person. That was herself, she was given a purpose and Dr. Login was the one that gave her a reason to live.  

"No...that's where you're wrong. We are very different and also.....I'm nothing like you," Nova softly spoke, pushing his hand off her should as she stepped back. Megatron glared at her not at all pleased with her insubordination. 

"Just becoz we have dark energon inside us, doesn't make us the same. Whether you like it or not...deep down, I am still human, part human. My teammates are stronger than you. It must burn you inside knowing what a failure you are...he's going to find a way to stop you. After all, I am the Herald, it is my duty to aid the Autobots to end the war. Evil will lose."

"I'll destroy Optimus Prime and the Autobots!"

"Oh really? Unlikely. Look at how many losses you've suffered. Admit defeat Megatron...you can't hope to win."

As she stood there, not caring the consequences she has said. "Defiant....like your Sire." Megatron said which made Nova widened her optics. "Perhaps more so than Optimus......Do you obviously thought I did not know? And to think, Optimus Prime would form guardian bond with a Herald of Primus. Such raw power wasted. If you were my daughter, I would train you into the most feared Decepticon."

"Ha! I would never willingly serve you, you sick monster." she spat.

"Pity, I was hoping you would joined me. It's ashamed......" Megatron said, shutting his optics as if he was disappointed, much to Nova's confusion. The moment he said that, She didn't register the inhibitor was blinking as it let out an electric shock. Nova screamed before she fell on the ground, feeling weak all of a sudden. She tried to stand up but failed miserably, somehow the device must have drained her energy. Nova cursing about the collar, feeling angry for letting her guard down. Megatron knelt down beside her with an evil grin appeared on his faceplate.

".......that you belong to the Autobots. It is unfortunate you won't live to see it."  As she tried her best to keep her optics open until everything went dark.

Mindscape

Nova was floating in dark void as she slowly opened her blue eyes and was aware of her surrounding. She also noticed that she is no longer in her Titan Mode but in her human form. Nova looked around, wondering what's happening. 

"How long are you gonna stay unconscious?"

Nova turned to see it was her shadow but different, all she can felt was filled with negative emotions. Even her eyes are purple with white pupil. "Your not my shadow from before? Who are you?!" Nova demanded.

"I'm just the hollow from the darkest shadows of your mind. The blood that was once flow through your veins. You once tap into our power until the light rejected us." The dark shadow said. Nova didn't  know what to think of until a realization hit her. "Dark Energon?" Nova said surprised. 

"Pathetic, to think you lose your guard by a collar. Do you not realize what's going on?" The hollow chuckled. Nova didn't like her tone of hers, it sounded venomous and evil than her shadow; Reaper.

"What are you on about?"

"The collar put us in some kind of force stasis....."

Nova didn't get what she meant which made the dark shadow rolled her eyes and said, "In other word.....we're being sedated." Nova was shocked of what she just said. Now that she think about it, she wasn't waking up yet only in her mind.

"Your curious what's going on outside?"  the Hollow smirked.

Nova didn't replied, still have her eyes narrowed. "Perhaps a glimpse of the events will help you see."  Her dark shadow added as she lifted her left hand and drew a circle in the air, smoke trailing after her index finger. Soon enough, a window flickered into existence, and Nova found herself watching her real body that happened to be in her Titan Mode, laying on the med bed, strapped in restraints and her optics still shut.

"Wha....? "Nova said, looking confused.

"This is the outside of our mindscape and that is the real you out in the real world. As you can see, we're under restraints and unable to move." Her dark shadow explained.

"Well, that's just great......To think Megatron was able to get the best of me and that's something I won't make a mistake again. I hope Ratchet is doing a better job than I can."

"Oh I wouldn't be to sure about that....."

The scenery from the window was replaced with Ratchet being captured in the Lab with Megatron, Shockwave and Knockout. 

Knock Out held the CNA container that Ratchet had stolen. He waved his fingers at Ratchet, teasing the doctor. "Tsk, tsk, tsk. Nice try." He turned and put the jar where it belonged. "I'll just put this back where it belongs."

Shockwave spoke up, reaching in and collecting a new sample of Synth-en. "Spectrum analysis confirms that the synthetic Energon is stable. The formula is now complete."

Nova gasped at the scene as Megatron looked from the container to Shockwave. "And your timetable for production?"

Shockwave handed the container over to Megatron as he answered. "With the aid of hyper-acceleration technology, not long."

Megatron turned, looking down at Ratchet. He held up the container of the new formula, smirking down at him. "Ohh, a pity you won't live long enough to witness the fruits of your labor." He walked closer to Ratchet next, sneering down at him. "But as much as we appreciate your contributions, Doctor, I've made a promise to someone that I intend to keep." They're about to drag Ratchet as he demanded, "Where is Nova?! What did you do to her?"

"I'm afraid your companion is.....indisposed at the moment.  She would have made a fine Decepticon, but I'm afraid her stubbornness is now her downfall." 

Nova watched as Ratchet was dragged from the room, Megatron following after him. 

"RATCHET?!" Nova called out before the window disappear.

"What's going to happen to him?"

"Oh he's just going to spend some time with a certain beast. After all, every beast needs a chew toy." The dark shadow said. Nova realized what she meant as she looked around and tried to wake up. Her body glowed a bit before it shut off which makes it hard for her. Her dark shadow floated bedside her, with her arms crossed.

"Did you forget? The collar is preventing you from tapping into your power." She mentioned.

Nova didn't listened as she tried again and again until her body was dropped on the ground, feeling exhausted. "How am I suppose to get out here? At this rate, Ratchet is going to become munched while I'm stuck in my own mindscape." Nova said, feeling frustrated.

The dark shadow said, "You know you'll never get out of here like that."

"Yeah right as if you know something...." She retorted, struggling to stand up.

"You know there is another way......" 

Nova turned to her with curiosity as she continued, "We both know that the collar can't let you tap into your powers."

"I know about it...."

"Ah....but what you don't know is that it didn't include the other one."

Nova was confused at first until her widened in realization. Her dark shadow knew Nova was catching on as she said, "If you can't tap into yours then there's one way you leave this mindscape and that is....."

Nova finishes, "Dark Energon."

"That's right......It may be dormant but you can used Dark Energon to escape. All you have to do is set the darkness in your heart free so you can save your friend." The dark shadow slowly looked up to Nova. "Use it...."

Outside of Mindscape

In the lab, Knockout had been taking multiple scans and readings of her, entering the data into a datapad. He had been muttering to himself while Nova was still in stasis on her med bay.

He knew she had a spark.

He knew she ingested energon.

He knew about her reacting to the Omega Lock's energy.

He knew about her knowledge of Cybertronian things.

He knew Primus had changed her drastically, how she was stronger and built tougher than humans. But he still didn't seem satisfied. 

Knock Out turned to her, venting. "This is still not enough data." He walked towards to where Nova was. "We're going to have to move onto less savory methods." He shuddered. "It's just so gross. They kick me out of my lab, then make me cut up a fleshie? Don't they know you're all squishy and full of gross fluids inside?" He groaned as he walked over to his table of tools, mumbling some more when he picked up a scalpel. 

Knock Out came closer to her, a smirk on his facial plating. "Now that your in Cybertronian form. Let's get started shall we?" As his scalpel easily cut her armor open, going right to her chest and over her spark. Slicing the Cybertronian metal through her like butter. "Now let's see this heart/spark of yours, shall we?" as he opened up more of her chest.

Mindscape

Nova was shocked of what her dark shadow was saying as she was about to say something when she felt an excruciating pain in her chest as though something was cut open. As it calmed down, Nova wondered what it was, even her dark shadow seems to notice it as well.

"So, he started....." Her dark shadow narrowed.

"Who started?"

"The doctor is going to cut us open, out of curiosity." Her dark shadow stated, much to Nova shock, realizing what she meant.

Oh Primus he really was going to dissect her. Her spark thrummed violently in her chest, pure panic flooding through her veins. She was defenseless and no one was there to help her. Her teammates couldn't find them. Ratchet could be dead for all she knew. And none of the 'cons were going to care about some fleshie. It's like being back in the MEch all over again.

Oh Primus she was going to die.

"What are you waiting for? Use the Dark Energon to break yourself free." Her dark shadow said. Nova turned to her, "Are you nuts? Last time I experience, I almost went berserk and killed my friends. I may have succumbed to Dark Energon before and that is something I will never repeat again."

"If you don't, It's only matter of time before he dissect us unless you used Dark Energon to free yourself."

Nova was gritted her teeth, stuck in her thoughts between her and her shadow doubts.

Outside of Minscape

 Her chestplate was still sliced open, exposing her spark chamber. Her heart/spark was visible, which was what Knock Out was after. He seems stunned when he saw her spark, it was so pure except there was a little taint of Dark Energon.

Knockout said, "I guess Megatron wasn't kidding about it. To think, there was a little dark energon in it even though she's not corrupted. Pity, it would be ashamed to have her dissected." as he walked over to his table of tools.

Mindscape

'I had to get out of here. But how could I? The collar around her neck was blocking my powers. And I can't used Dark Energon neither which will make it worst. There had to be a way to break it.'   Nova was thinking away out of this until she remembered something. 

"You know I'm right." Her dark shadow said, waiting for her answer. Nova shut her eyes for a minute before making a decision. "Your right about that.....except I'm not going to use Dark Energon. I'm going to do something stupid." Nova said, hoping it would work.

Her dark shadow got confused until she realized what Nova was planning to do. "Even if you do that.....it might drained everything out of you."

"Hey, I'm willing to take risk beside I'll do anything to save my friends. Whatever it takes." As she closed her eyes and concentrate on her powers, despite her dark shadow protest.

Nova called on all the might from inside she could, summoning every ounce of power she was able to get; Allspark energy and Dark Energon. She can feel the collar outside immediately activated, subduing any power that came out, but she kept trying. She grunted, pulling out more and more power, little by little trying to get past the collar's control. But none came through. Nova called on more than I ever had, giving it everything she had.

"Haaaaaaaaaah!" She yelled out, her glowing dual eyes snapped open, as her body shined brightly throughout the mindscape. Her dark shadow clicked her tongue in disappointment and said, "How foolish...." before fading away.

Back in the real world

While Knockout was about to extract her spark, he didn't noticed her servos was curled into fist, as though it was struggling through the restraints. The power began to respond. Purple and Blue hues encompassed her body, more than the inhibitor collar could handle, making Nova awake from her stasis as raw power emerged from within which caught Knockout's attention.

Knockout said surprised, "What in the Allspark?!"

 All of a sudden, an energy pulse was shot outwards from her body and flew in all directions. He gasped in shock as the wave of energon knocked the Decepticon Medic back with force, causing a loud screeching of metal to be heard throughout the room as he fell over with a thud. The binds on her burst into blue flames as it disintegrated into ashes. The collar held on for a few seconds, and then broke off from the raw strength it was being subjected to, breaking in half, and falling to the ground in two pieces. 

Once it had come off, She relaxed a little, the pull from its suppression no longer present, feeling her chestplate closes and healed itself a little before letting the power dissipate as Nova got off from the med bay, kneeling herself on the ground, breathed heavily. "Ok.....Note to self....never do that again.....unless it's necessary." Nova said.

She slumped forward, letting out a final large sigh, and then stood up, looking around incredulously. She could feel the power inside her again. Feel its full potential. She had done it? That was it? She looked at her hands in disbelief. Blue sparking appeared around them at her call; meaning her powers were back.

There was no time to waste. She stood up before it made her stumbled, feeling the dizziness. Nova knew it must have been that energy surge which almost drained her strength. She shook off her dizziness as she left the lab, leaving Knockout unconsciously.  In the hallway, she did her best to stay awake while sneaking passed the vehicons. She didn't have any strength to make  her camouflage but it was a good thing she learned how to be stealthy. 

Nova manged to reached the room where it leads outside, she heard the sound of crashing and mashing. Hastily, she quickly opened the door while leaning on the wall as a support, looking up to see Ratchet being pinned by the Predaking. 

'Ratchet?!' Nova thought. As she try to stand up and was about shot a lightning when Ratchet spoke, "Just get it over with. It's not like I could verse live with myself, knowing the role I played in human kinds extinction...but if you want to avenge your cohorts don't stop with us! Keep avenging all the way to Megatron!"

The Preadcon transformed back and asked,"What? What do you mean?"

Ratchet stands back up as he said,"You high and mighty leader wanted your Predacons exterminated and simply allowed us to do his dirty work for him!"

"Nothing but a false claim to save your own spark." The beast says angrily as he picks Ratchet up by the shoulder. Nova couldn't take it as she shouted, "HE'S TELLING TRUTH!!"

Predaking turned to see Nova who seems struggling to stand up, was leaning on the wall as a support. Ratchet noticed her tired look on her faceplate, realizing something must have happened to her. Pedaking dropped Ratchet on the ground before heading towards Nova. "It's you.....the femme with wings. I recalled you try to destroy me." He growled.

"Well, you tried to roast my friends." Nova retorted, cringing the headache she had. "You consider yourself an intelligent being don't you? Then rise about your base instincts and analyze the situation." shaking off the dizziness as she stood up. 

 "We followed the trail that day, hoping that it would lead to an energon mine...we had no idea we would find Shockwaves laboratory."

"A coincidence barely seen as plausible." The Predaking said. Ratchet who stayed there, worried Nova might get hurt but she stood her guard and said, "Don't you get it?! it wasn't a coincidence. The Energon was clearly planted there to lure us there by Megatron. "

"Do you think I would believe you?!" Predaking snarled. Nova knew there was no point convincing him since he did hold grudges of her, after what she did in the cave. She needed a way to make him believe the truth when a thought came to her. 'I never done this before but it's my only chance.'

"You want the truth? Then....I'll show it to you!!!!" Nova said as she lunged at him by placing her servo on his chestplate. Predaking was about to strike her with his claws in the air when Nova optics glowed white and her servo. As a result, Predaking's optic glowed white as well. Ratchet noticed they were not moving as though they were both in a trance. Nova used her technopathy by showing her memories of the Cave, the Energon crystals, Wreckers noticing no Energon reading and Shockwave's lab to Predaking's thoughts. It felt like his mind was invaded until he was back in reality. Nova's optics stopped glowing, releasing her servo from him before dropping on the ground while Predaking staggered back, holding his head after the effects.

Ratchet rushed passed him  and knelt beside the unconscious Nova. "Nova," Ratchet said worriedly, lifting her head. Pedaking who seems shocked about the discovery of what he saw from her memories. "Why....?" Predaking said, causing Ratchet to looked at him as he continued, "Why would my liege wish to destroy us?"

Ratchet stared at Nova, wondering what she did that would make him shock before turning to the Pedaking, "Having just been on the receiving end of your might, one theory springs to mind...... Megatron fears you and any like you."

The Predaking stared at him, the moment he give his opinion and once it sinks in, He snarls. He then quickly masks his way back inside. Ratchet turned back to Nova as he tried to wake her up which her optic's slowly open and stared at Ratchet weakly.

"H-Hey...."Nova said hoarsely, as she managed to sit up and shaking the dizziness. Ratchet questioned, "Nova, what did you do?" 

"Let's just say.....I used my technopathy to hack into his processor but this time I showed him my memory about the Cave. I guess Predaking already seen the truth."

"I didn't know you could do that." Ratchet said, helping Nova stand up. "Neither do I." Nova said, leaning on the wall weakly. Ratchet noticed that she was no longer wearing an inhibitor. "How did you....got free of the inhibitor?"

"Um....I sort of...." Nova didn't what to explained to him. Ratchet stared at her a minute before realizing. "Nova...Please tell me you didn't tap into both powers, did you?"

Nova shrugged her shoulder.

"Nova what were you thinking?! Don't you know it would literally drained your energy?!" Ratchet scolded. Nova retorted, "Hey!! It's either freeing myself or getting dissected by a crazy doctor."

Rathet wanted to say something but decided against it. "Are you going to be alright?"

"Yeah...not as bad now but I live...I'm guessing Predaking is going to confront Megatron." She reply.

"Without a doubt...come, let's contact Optimus." 

They walk back inside and find a communication terminal surrounded by a few cons, but they are quickly disposed of. "Wow, So nice of him to clear them away for us." Nova said sarcastically.

"Autobot base do you read? This is Ratchet. Can anyone hear me?" Ratchet asked hoping to reach someone.

Then a familiar voice says,"Loud and clear old friend...is Nova with you?"

"Yes. She is safe and with me." Ratchet said. "Now listen to me. Megaton has managed to rebuild the Omega Lock on board his deactivated the Decepticon shielding should be able to get a fix on our coordinates...Optimus you must hurry. Megatron is preparing to Cyberform Earth as we speak."

Back with the Autobots

"Autobots, lock on to those coordinates and prepare to storm the warship." Optimus said through the comm.

Ultra Magnus turned to the team, nodding. "You heard our leader. We're going in, and we're going in heavy. Gear up." As Every 'bot loaded up with weapons and the remaining artifacts they had, ready for battle.

Miko frowned, hanging onto the railing. She was worried for a lot of different reasons. "They can't leave without saying goodbye."

Fowler walked up behind her, patting her shoulder. "No time for that, and no need. They'll be back."

Raf steeled himself before he started the groundbridge, turning to the others afterwards. "Initiating groundbridge."

Optimus' voice came over the com just as the groundbridge opened. "Members of team Prime, Autobot and human, it has been my honor to lead you. On this day, the fates of two worlds hang in the balance, and the battle to come may very well be our last. But for Earth, for Cybertron, for our comrades, Ratchet and Nova, we must take the Decepticon warship."

Back at the Nemesis 

The sound of gun fire gets louder so Ratchet tugs on her arm saying, "Are you sure you can still stand up? You can't barely move and the energy surge took everything out of you."

Nova said, "Don't worry about me.....I gotta do what I can with the little I have left. Beside, I need to be there to the end. After all, I am the Herald of Primus and it's my duty to end the war alongside with you."

Ratchet gave her stern look for a bit before His gaze softens and said,"I understand why he said you were stubborn, but just try not push yourself."

Nova smile and said,"I know."

"Alright let's go. We have to stop Megatron from Cyberforming Earth."

Nova nodded as she revert to her small size, still in her armor mode while Ratchet transforming into his vehicle mode so that she can get in before racing through the corridors. She had a feeling that this battle will be her last.....