Seibertron.com Energon Pub Forums

Transmission on Private security channel alpha-three

>>Commander Maximus, this is agent Punch from special operations. I will be docking at the Garrus-9 facility in an hour for assignment and will require a private briefing to receive my effects. Please clear me for landing under the dummy access codes transmitted on the frequency and I will be with you shortly, Punch out<<

Southern Wing Activity Area

Scowl was happy to be out of his cell, even if it was just for a short time. Activity periods meant that there was something to do, and different things to listen to. Oh sure, it wasn’t all interesting, a lot of it was the same conversations and jokes he had heard more times then he could possibly count. It was all part of the routine of things again. Out here there was at least some small chance of the routine being broken, and that was enough to get him at least a little bit excited.

The small Transformer was easily lost in the crowd, but his sensitive hearing helped him to get where he was going. He had hoped to talk with Slog, as long as he was in a good mood. Unfortunately he could hear him already involved with a conversation. Not wanting to interrupt them he looked around for one of the other members of their group. He spotted Icepick and jogged over to him. At least he was always cheerful.

“Hey Icepick! How are you!” he shouted, or tried to shout. The dampeners they installed on him made everything he said sound a bit muffled. It was frustrating to no ends for someone whose specialty was generating noise. Still, He tried to make due as best he could. He stood next to other mech but didn’t say anything as his attention was drawn to the newcomer in the yard. He tilted his head as he listened in to the guards talking about him. “Oh, the new guy is a cannibal…no wait, a self cannibal. What does that even mean?” Scowl spoke out loud, nominally to Icepick but perhaps just as much to himself. “Ohhh, fight! What an exciting day this is turning into Icepick! We will have something new to talk about for awhile!” The chance of overhearing new conversations was about the best thing he could ask for while incarcerated.

Southern Wing Activity Area

Maximus had simply been heading down to the lower levels in order to converse with the staff there, and sometimes even some of the inmates, on a more relateable level. Even then, it was still something of a difficult prospect, given the size difference between he and practically every other Cybertronian. He did his best, though.

The call for additional guards had come through on Maximus' internal comm as well. What had happened? He had just been standing over that area not a half-breem before.

>>”Sir, it’s Rung. I’m not certain if you’ve been contacted, but it would seem that something is happening in the southern wing’s activity area. Sir, should I expect an influx in the coming future?”<< came another internal transmission.

>>"Not directly, but I was on my way to that area anyway. I'll see what happened and let you know if you need to clear some additional time on your schedule."<<

As Maximus stepped past several guards through one of the modified entrances to the activity area, his optics immediately found their way to his staff. Guards were clearing the area and Max could hear the approach of the medics as they had been called for.

As he saw the mech lying on the ground, he looked from Steelhand to Streamlight to the inmate, Kronus.

"What happened?" he said, looking first to his staff before looking at Kronus directly. "More importantly, why did it happen?"

As he asked, he registered another internal comm, this time from an individual that Maximus had not been expecting to arrive quite yet. He fired off a text message.

>>Can't talk at the moment. Sending through clearance codes. Get some energon. Wait in my office. Get comfortable. You might be there a while.<<

Southern Wing Activity Area

It was good to get out of his cell every so often. Icepick had at least managed to build up enough trust to where he had earned that privilege back. Out here in the yard, he could still talk of the Decepticon cause and its glory days, and the glory it would have again someday, if anyone wanted to listen. Icepick didn't mind talking if someone asked, but he was hardly a recruiter. What would be the point of such things now, anyway? Occasionally someone caught his interest. Someone that he thought might make a worthy addition to Megatron's war efforts, but those cases were few and far between.

Icepick had been on the other side of the yard when some sort of scuffle had taken place. He looked around, making sure that he was indeed at least two-hundred cybermeters away, as Steelhand had ordered, and resumed his conversation once he was reasonably sure that he was.

The inmate in question, some old war horse by the name of Stormwrecker, chuckled a little, nodded and walked away, leaving Icepick to his own devices for a moment. His optics brightened a little as Scowl approached and got his attention. One of the old gang. Slog, Scowl, himself. That was three so far. He couldn't help but wonder if the other three were still in perfectly functionable order. He hadn't seen them around yet.

"Scowl my friend. I'm good. Functioning. All of those good things. And I'm standing right here, no need to yell. I can hear ya fine," Icepick said, laughing a little. "Ohh....yes, they dampened your audios didn't they? Never mind. Carry on as you were my friend."

He then watched as Scowl's attention was pulled in the direction of the altercation that had taken place. Icepick couldn't help but smirk. This prison facility seemed to attract all types, but none of them could compare to what the Monstructor Six had once been.

"Self-cannibal, eh? I guess...I don't know. A cannibal eats their own kind, so a self-cannibal must eat...themself? He must not have been in the mood for seconds, at least. He's still walking around, right?"

He continued to watch as the prison staff were steadily beginning to swarm the area, particularly that cycloptic one--Whirl. What a good Decepticon he would make. Hmm...

"Though maybe not for long. Whom did he go after?"

Southern Wing Activity Area

"That happened because your guards have less processing power put together then one of my wheels!"

Vroom yelled mischievously as he overheard Fortress Maximus's question from where he stood. he crossed his arms over his chest and continued to stand there and watch. This was the first out of the ordinary thing that had happened in a while and his oil was beginning to boil at the uncertainty that this brought

"Why not just politely ask the 'con to not kill someone next time?! That'll probably be more effective than counting on those slag heads!"

Southern Wing – Activity Area

A scowl made its way to the young guard’s face as he met Steelhand’s optics with equal intensity. At the sound of the larger mech’s statement, Streamlight grunted before he responded.

“I am doing my job! You, on the other, and that flying maniac, are another story!”

While Streamlight was taking a stand in his favor, Kronus let out a weak moan as the effects of Whirl’s paralyze box began to wear off. The thief maneuvered back onto his knees, his restrained hands resting in his lap. From behind the restraint mask, Kronus looked to the young mech and gave him a slight nod of thanks.

He had been an inmate here for so many vorns that he had stopped keeping track, and thus far this guard was the only one to actually show him some kind of compassion. What a waste. It seemed as though the mech would have to go. After all, if he got too close he’d start to believe that he, himself, was capable of compassion…and that would just not do. Not in the least.

Kronus was brought out of his musings with the arrival of the warden himself. Well, now. It seemed as though that little display had even capture the attention of Maximus. Damn. He was good.

From behind his mask Kronus caught the optics of the massive Autobot when Maximus looked down at him. Head held high the thief was about to respond when Streamlight stepped in and did it for him.

“Sir. Streamlight. I wasn’t here from the start, but what I did witness was Steelhand and Whirl overreacting to the situation. The inmate is in restraints and he could have been talked down, if given the opportunity.”

The scowl on his face deepened as he looked back to Steelhand. The mech may have been stationed here longer but that didn’t mean he knew everything.

“Streamlight.”

At the sound of his name, the mech turned around to look at Kronus. The thief had his head hung low.

“I appreciate your altruism, but it’s wasted on me.”

Kronus looked up to Maximus.

“Isn’t it, warden?”

Rung’s Office

With his attention still focused out of his window on the yard below, Rung nodded at Maximus’ response. He could only hope that the commotion in the activity area was due to mechs just arguing over territory, and had nothing to do with one of his patients.
The psychiatrist finally broke away from the window and made his way to his desk. He picked up one of the data pads he had placed on its surface and took a seat. His next patient was due any minute and he still had to go through his notes from their last session.

Aileron was one of those patients that needed to be reassured he was here because of his past atrocities. In all seriousness, he may not have been. The mech suffered from spit personality. In fact it was Rung’s mission to prove that he could be helped with the proper medical treatment. It was just a matter of getting his dark passenger to confess. Then he’d have to convince Maximus to transfer him to a medical facility willing to perform the necessary surgery.

Rung let out a sigh when the nock on the door frame broke his train of thought.

“Come in, Aileron.”

South Wing Activity Area

Things calmed down as more guards filled the area to ensure no further violence would erupt amonst the prisoners. As Steelhand placed his pick axe on his back he ignored Vroom's comments- he was always trying to get a rise out of the guards, acknowledging them would only give him what he wanted.

The medical team entered the area, going quickly to the near-dead inmate that Kronus had damaged. Not far behind them was the warden himself, Fortress Maximus. Immense in size and stature, even Steelhand had some difficulty overcoming the sense of awe he had when his commander entered the area.

He was a veritable mountain of a mech who looked like he could take on half the inmates by himself, yet he never lorded over the staff or the prisoners like the giant he appeared to be. Steelhand had seen far too often in the mines and in the fighting pits much smaller mechs in stature act like they were Primus himself, treating those under them like insects just because they had the right connections or plenty of muscle and firepower surrounding them. Maximus always seemed above that, and Steelhand respected him more than any other mech he had worked under.

Trying to keep as professional as he could, the former miner made his way back to the warden. This type of situation hadn't happened in a long time, and given the experience of most of the staff, Steelhand included, it wasn't a surprise that Maximus wanted some answers. With more guards watching over the inmates, Steelhand gave the warden a salute and stood at attention.

He listened to Streamlight's take on events as the younger guard stayed by Kronus, who now was starting to stir. Even with the enormous Maximus nearby, the thief still made Steelhand a little nervous. Steelhand's worries were only heightened as it was becoming clear that Streamlight was becoming more and more sympothetic to Kronus' plight. He said nothing, though, as he waited for the younger guard to finish before Steelhand gave his take on events. Bickering and arguing over who was right and wrong wasn't what Maximus would want to hear.

"Sir, I was patrolling through some of the other inmates when I heard something here, and I ran back as soon as I could. Kronus wrapped his shackles around the other inmate's neck and was squeezing and pulling hard. I thought the inmate was in danger so I ordered Kronus to stop and tried to cut the restraints with my energon cutters to free the other. Kronus moved quick and made me miss. I ordered him again to let go under threat of force, but he instead pulled harder and practically ripped the other inmate's head off, which was right when Whirl came in and fired on the two, ending it."

The entire time Steelhand summarized the string of events he kept his optics locked on Maximus. There was no emotion in him as he told what happened, he simply wished to state what he knew and nothing else. He thought for a few astroseconds once he was done. It would be easy to pass the blame to Streamlight for being too emotional, for not watching the new prisoner that he was more familiar with than any of the other guards.

"If anyone is at fault for this sir," Steelhand added with only the slightest hint of guilt in his voice, "It would be me for not keeping a closer watch on Kronus. I was in this area, the responsiblity was mine."

South Wing Activity Area

Looking up at the masses of prisoners that made up the activity area, Umbra silently watched as mayhem broke out amongst them. She had been here less than an orn, and this happened to be her second trip out into the activity area since her incarceration. She had chosen an area apart from any Autobots or Decepticons to stand in. She would almost prefer to be in solitary confinement. Umbra heard a commotion but took no notice of it. Instead, she reflected on the chain of events that had led her here.

Her last memories before her reactivation had been of her last mission on that forsaken little ice cube. She knew she'd gone into stasis, but she was still unaware as of yet for how long. Umbra did not remember much of what had transpired at the moment of her activation. Her first coherent memory was one that made her shudder:

Cold. She was so very cold. The cold threatened to steal the life from her circuits. She must do something. Anything to escape its grasp. Umbra ran. Her processors didn't register her surroundings, only a blur as she passed by. Something was in front of her, barring her escape. The cold. It ate away at her circuits. She had to escape. Umbra ejected her knife from her wrist, taking hold of it in the opposite hand. In one fluid motion, Umbra used her momentum to send her blade into one of the gaps in her enemy's armor. The blade sunk in deep, and Umbra's training told her that she had dealt a serious blow. A nagging thought wormed its way through Umbra's processors. She paused and tried to decipher it as her enemy sank to the ground.

Umbra looked down at her enemy's prone form. There was a certain wrongness about it. Her processors slowly registered the energon dripping off of the end of her blade. This puzzled her momentarily. She looked at her enemy's prone form once more and actually saw it for the first time. It was a Cybertronian, an Autobot at that. The next thing she noticed was the pool of energon, slowly seeping out from underneath the Autobot. Umbra felt something collide with her back followed swiftly by a jolt of astonishing pain. She crumpled to the floor, unable to move or speak, but Umbra could still see the Autobot. Why was he leaking energon? Someone needed to get a medic to help him. As more figures rushed into her line of sight, she saw them lift up the Autobot and begin to drag him away. Umbra felt a sense of relief sweep through her at the sight. Good. He would get treatment. Something was still troubling Umbra however. Everything became clear when Umbra saw the gash in the injured Autobot's side. Her processor finally connected the dots. Horror tore through Umbra, and she let out a scream.

She had been sent to Garrus-9 shortly after that-as far as she could remember anyway. Umbra had barely spoken since then, a habit she hadn't deigned to change since arriving at Garrus-9. When Umbra heard the all too familiar sound of firearms, she immediately looked up toward the commotion. Two prisoners were fighting-if you could call it that since one of them was nearly decapitated. The shot had come from one of the guards. Umbra's optics lifted upward as two more shots were fired. Another guard. This one she actually recognized as Whirl. He was one of the few that she could actually recognize. Umbra watched as events transpired, interested. This was the first scuffle that she had witnessed since her arrival. She had the general impression that such conflicts were a rarity around Garrus-9. When the warden appeared, Umbra knew that her guess was correct.

Umbra scowled in irritation when she heard some smart slag heap decide to disrespect the warden. Probably some Decepticon. Umbra couldn't help but think like that. The war was at the forefront of her mind. As anxious as she was to return to the front lines, Umbra knew she belonged here. She had...committed an unspeakable crime. Umbra pushed the thought away. If she lingered on it for much longer, she would begin to lose her mind.

Umbra tried to occupy herself by searching for the slag heap that had disrespected the warden. She had noted the general direction the shout had come from but only knowing the direction wouldn't help her much in locating the perpetrator. She kept her eyes moving along the groups of prisoners, waiting patiently for the prisoner to shout again after noting a reply that was goaded from one of the guards. Umbra occasionally glanced at the two stricken prisoners and the guards, keeping tabs on them as well as her reconnaissance training asserted itself.

Arriving at Garrus-9

Clearance granted and landing the shuttle in the assigned Bay, Punch cleared his ID with the guards and was escorted directly to the offices of Fortress Maximus. The Garrus-9 prison complex was vast, cold and sterile, but he had been briefed on it's layout and knew his way around well enough from the schematics. Moving slowly through the multitude of security channels towards Fort Max's offices he arrived at the Wardens gigantic office complex, and was directed into a waiting area with a vast bank of vid screens and security cameras. From there he could see almost all of the prison itself and could familiarise himself with the inmates as required. It wouldnt be wise to let on that he knew this much once he was inside, but the more research he could do now the better his chances of finding a safe way to his primary target, but he was soon distracted by what seemed like a small scale scuffle in one of the rec yards.

His alter-ego, Counterpunch, was probably known to a handful of the more active Decepticons incarcerated here, but he had never met any of them personally. He wondered how his other personality would cope with being in such a confined space with so many other criminals, killers and others who chose to live outside of the Autobots law. He considered carefully who he would get on with and who he would find enmity with as soon as he met them. There was plenty here to chose from, but he knew Counterpunch as well as he knew himself and there were definitely a few that stood out as being better options than others. A small part of him craved the chaos and freedom his other side allowed him, but he knew that was all part of his duty and resolved that no matter how much fun Counterpunch had, Punch would always be the one in control.

He steeled himself, he always got jittery before an insertion, it was always the most dangerous part of any covert operation, but that didn't make him feel any better, he hated handing control over to Counterpunch.

His nerves getting the better of him and feeling the need to walk around a bit he took in the rest of the offices. The main desk, taller than he was to accommodate a giant of Maximus' scale, dominated the main rooms similarly scaled to allow such a giant Mech to move unhindered. There was minimal personal comfort in here, clearly Maximus took his job very seriously which explained why this place had its exemplary security record for so long. It was going to be a shame to break that reputation, even if it was with Fortress' full knowledge.

Punch returned to his seat at one of the support office terminals and flicked through a few screens. There was definitely something happening in the rec yard, probably why he had been sent to the offices to wait, especially as none of the other guards knew why he was there, let alone who he was. He watched it closely for signs of anyone who could be a useful 'friend' in the other side.

This is probably my last chance to relax an Autobot for a while, I may as well make the best of it whilst I can.

Southern Wing Activity Area

Vroom's antagonism did not go unnoticed. Maximus nodded to a couple of the guards.

"Get him out of here. Two hundred cybermeters, isn't that right? Unless he's really itching for some time in solitary," Max said, having overheard some of the orders that had been given to clear the area as he had arrived. Even though Vroom had worn the Autobot sigil at one time, his current state of mind and behaviors seemed to put him a good distance away from Optimus Prime's nobler ideals. Not irredeemable, by any stretch. But also not helpful when it came to maintaining order in this facility either.

Maximus took in the various reports as they were presented to him, Streamlight's being first. Given the fact that he was admittedly not there from the beginning of the situation would already color his perspective considerably. Maximus would certainly take it in to account. Staff overreaction to inmate behaviors--though decreased from what it was--still occurred every so often. There was more than one inmate of this facility, in fact, that was at one time a member of the guard staff. Yet because of their excessive brutality, they now found themselves on the other side of the bars until more appropriate arrangements could be made, if warranted.

Maximus could only hope that he had dealt with the last of such situations a long time ago.

“I appreciate your altruism, but it’s wasted on me. Isn’t it, warden?” Kronus spoke, answering Streamlight's words rather than Maximus' own, but providing insight in to his current state of mind just the same.

"No it isn't. Not yet, at least," Maximus said. The staff here were under tremendous pressure. He had no intentions of chastising them due to the behaviors of those that actually deserved their time here without legitimate justification. That said, Maximus' ideal for this facility--and part of why he took this job in the first place--was to actually facilitate some degree of rehabilitation. Most didn't turn out that way. But the few who did helped to make it worthwhile. "But you know where this is going to put you--for the time being. You have the option of seeing Rung before you do your time in solitary confinement."

The staff medics were now in the process of stabilizing and transferring the severely injured prisoner to the infirmary as Maximus considered Steelhand's account. He had served with Steelhand for a good long while now. Long enough to know that he consistently acted within reason when it came to situations like these. He had no reason to doubt that he had done so now.

"Don't shoulder too much blame just yet," Max said, looking from Steelhand to the rest of the guards. "I'm going to go review the recordings in this area then we'll debrief if necessary. In the meantime, nix the finger pointing. Let's get this cleaned up and back on track."

Maximus turned and walked off, his heavy footsteps reverberating against the unforgiving metallic surface. One thing he had learned in this position--even moreso than what he had picked up as a captain of the Steelhaven--was not to rush to any judgment about how a situation had went down and who was at fault until information could be gathered from every available source. Steelhand, Whirl, Streamlight and even Kronus' and the victim's account would all be critical, particularly if the latter two opened up to Rung more than they might choose to with the staff.

Southern Wing – Activity Area

At Maximus’ response Kronus let out a low grown and sneered from behind his face restraint. The gall of the Autobot to believe he could be helped. And how dare the warden plant false hope in the sparks of mechs like Streamlight. The kid already believed that he could be saved; now, now he was going to believe that he could be the one to do it. Such a shame. He was going to kill him, but now he was going to have to kill him slowly in order to teach him a lesson.

The thief’s reverie was broken when Maxmus mentioned that he had the opportunity to see Rung before he was moved to solitary confinement. Kronus thought about lunging for the mech when he turned his back but he thought better of it. After all, being dead was not the type of freedom he craved.

Leaning back on his heels, Kronus looked up into Maximus’ optics before the latter looked to the senior guard present. The exchange was disgusting. How could he say that the whole ordeal wasn’t Steelhand’s fault? Not only was it his fault, but it was the fault of every other guard that wandered through the yard.

Once Fortress Maximus had walked off Streamlight and one of the other guards present helped get Kronus back on his feet. The thief looked to his guard and nodded in thanks.

“It’s okay, Breaker. I can handle it from here.”

The tall black and red mech, another senior guard, let out a grunt as he shoved Kronus’ arm over to the young mech who in turn flashed Breaker a deep scowl.

“I wanna see Rung.”

Streamlight’s attention moved from the retreating form of Breaker back to the prisoner. A broad, hopeful smile on his face.

“That’s good. I’m sure he can help you sort this situation out.”

The young guard began to guide Krounus through the yard as they made their way out and back into the facility. Kronus remained silent until they finally reached the psychiatrist’s door where another guard was stationed. Streamlight moved Kronus to a chair where he sat down. The guard outside the door took a long look at the thief and stepped back slightly. It seemed that his reputation preceded him…nice.

Rung’s Office

“Look, Aileron, I know you’re upset, but it would be for the best if I could speak with Airfoil. If I could just talk to him, then maybe he can shed some light…”

The mech shot up from his chair and pointed a finger at the psychiatrist.

“I told you he doesn’t want to talk to you! Every time you ask to speak with him he just gets angry!”

Rung put up a hand in defense, although he knew this patent would not harm him; he still needed to calm him before the guard outside burst in and did it himself.

“Alright. Just stay calm. Please, sit back down, Aileron.”

The mech complied and took a seat. He slumped down in his chair and crossed his arms over his chestplate. Just then there was a knock on his door. Rung let out a sigh and looked back to Aileron who seemed to be settling down.

“Please excuse me, but I have to step out for a moment.”

A grunt from his patient was the only response. Rung stepped out from behind his desk and made his way to the door. He stepped past the threshold and motioned for the guard to head inside to keep an eye on his patient.

To Rung’s surprise Kronus was sitting in one of the chairs and his guard was standing in front of his door.

“Streamlight? Kronus is not scheduled to see me until tomorrow morning. Is there something wrong?”

Rung looked over the guard’s shoulder at the thief. He didn’t seem distraught. The young mech rubbed the back of his neck as he motioned for Rung to step away from the inmate.

“Umm, well doc, I’m not sure if you were told that there was a scuffle in the activity area, but Kronus was involved. I’m not exactly sure what transpired, but the end result was Kronus nearly tearing the head off of one of the other inmates.”

Rung put a hand to his mouth in shock.

“Dear, Prmus! Is he alright?”

“I’m not sure. He was taken to the med bay, so we won’t know for a bit.”

Rung shook his head in disappointment as he moved back toward his door.

“I suppose I should have worked with him a tad longer before suggesting he be let into the yard. Maximus will have my head.”

Streamlight flashed him a weak smile before the doctor stopped and looked over his shoulder.

“Take him out while I have Aileron moved back to his cell. Primus forbid those two come into contact.”

Nodding in understanding Streamlight guided Kronus back to his feet and led him out into a back corridor. Meanwhile Rung rescheduled Aileron’s visit and dismissed him and his guard. He then stepped out in to the corridor and led Kronus into his office while his guard stood outside.

“So, Kronus. Would you like to tell me what happened in the activity area today?”

From behind his face restraint, Kronus only grinned.

South Wing Activity Area

As usual the warden had seemed fair in his judgement, at least that's what Steelhand thought. The senior guard watched as Streamlight and Breaker helped Kronus up, then saw Breaker shove the thief into the younger guard rather harshly. Steelhand didn't approve of such actions, though such a small incident seemed inconsequential, especially after the most recent occurence with the thief.

He'll probably see Rung, try to get more sympathy, maybe get Streamlight even more on his side. He nearly killed a mech, why should he get any more chances....... Wait, who am I to judge? I did just as bad in the fighting pits, and I got a second chance...... No, that was different. I didn't have a choice and I never wanted to hurt anyone. It was either that or continue wandering and selling off my parts until I became an empty. And besides, I owned up to my mistake.

Once Kronus had been escorted out and his victim had been taken to the medical ward, the warden walked away and Steelhand went back to work.

"AREA CLEAR! INMATES MAY NOW OCCUPY ALL SECTIONS OF THE ACTIVITY AREA!", Steelhand called out for all the prisoners and staff to hear.

Patrolling once more, Steelhand tried to be even more vigilant, trying to prevent anymore violence. As he looked through the prisoners he noticed one of the newer inmates darting around like she was looking for someone.

It was a smaller female, probably an Autobot, which automatically set her apart from the mostly male, Decepticon population of the prison. Every so often Steelhand would look and see her. She'd clearly had some training, in most situations no one would think to notice her. But bad things had already happened on Steelhand's watch, and he was determined not to let anything else happen. While she was looking for her target, Steelhand made his way right through one of the larger groups of inmates. Most of them moved out of Steelhand's way, and he went straight to the small femme.

"Are you lost?", Steelhand asked Umbra in a determined voice, "Or are you looking for trouble?"

South Wing Activity Area

Umbra had noted the resolution of the little skirmish. The warden seemed fair and just-as someone in a position of authority should be. Vaguely wondering whether she would see him again anytime soon, Umbra continued her search for the rather outspoken prisoner. There had been no answering reply to the guard who had been goaded to take the bait. In addition, prisoners again had full use of the activity area. Umbra was nearly ready to give in when she noticed one of the guards who had taken care of the whole mishap earlier making a direct approach toward her, or rather, when she noticed a strange disruption in the mass of prisoners around her that marked his passage.

Umbra ceased her search and took in the guard. The prisoners in the yard moved out of the way easily for him, meaning he was well respected-or feared. It also meant that this was one of the more senior guards as compared to the one that answered the agitator. Wryly, Umbra thought that she really ought to learn the names of all of the guards. It would serve her better, though to what purpose, she wasn’t sure.

Another thing the senior guard brought with him was attention. Umbra grimaced internally. Her training had bred many principles in her, one of the foremost being seeing without being seen. It was her fault, of course, for neglecting to take into account the heightened awareness that the guards would have for the rest of this break. Still, the fact did little to ease her discomfort at being singled out. Despite that, Umbra managed to smile easily at the senior guard and waited for him to speak.

"Are you lost?", Steelhand asked Umbra in a determined voice, "Or are you looking for trouble?"

The question brought a voice to a nagging thought that had been in her mind since she began her search. Umbra honestly didn’t know what she would do if she found the prisoner she had been looking for, or why she was even looking for him. Umbra spread her hands out in a reconciliatory gesture.

“Neither, sir,” Umbra replied to Steelhand simply, “Old habits are hard to break.”

Waiting respectfully for either a reply or dismissal, Umbra examined the senior guard more closely. It was obvious that he was built for this job. He was big too, having a larger build than most Cybertronians, but he had a certain grace about him. This was a warrior to be reckoned with and not one to cross. Umbra wondered what his name was.

Southern Wing – Activity Area

Vroom grinned at Fortress Maximus' reply. He had struck a nerve which he counted as his own personal victory. It was highly childish, a fact he had to admit to himself, however it represented a singular act of rebellion in a very controlled environment. He was not about to rip some cons head off to demonstrate his individuality and freedom so he contented himself to a lesser act.

He continued to stand where he was as security personnel came towards him. "I was minding my own business here when you Bots screwed up. If you want me gone then come and move me." Some of the showman he used to be before the war was still in his spark and he sensed that simply walking off would be a highly anti-climactic. He was ready to spend some time in solitary in order to give the scene a more fitting ending.

As the guards came to his location the announcement that access to the Activity area was now fully restored. Vroom laughed out loud.

"Looks like I am not breaking any rules any more Bots." He said with a twinkle in his optic sensor as he saw the opportunity for a little more fun. "Hey, Fortress Minimus! You and your usual gang out idiots want to make up your minds!? This is getting simply mad!"

South Wing Activity Area

Steelhand looked down at the much smaller Umbra, deciding what to make of her, a firm unemotional look on his face. She didn't look like the typical inmate, though several others, Kronus included, could also be described that way. And though he didn't have the best memory he was fairly certain she hadn't been on Garrus-9 for very long.

Everyone brought here is here for a reason. They're all dangerous criminals, one way or another.

Experience had shown Steelhand that there were a number of reasons she would have been sneaking around for. She may have been testing the other inmates, see how much they would notice her. She may have been testing the guards, trying to find any holes in their security measures. Or what was more often the case, she was looking attack an inmate from behind for whatever reason.

Umbra's smile and gestures did little to drop Steelhand's stern expression or his guard. Though he tried his best not to let it show, the smaller, quicker types like her and Kronus gave him the most worries. He'd faced countless big and dumb warriors, bullies, soldiers and thugs in his gladiator days, those were relatively easy for him to handle.

But the ones who could move or think a few steps ahead- those were cause for concern. Now that she knew she was being watched, and now that many of the other inmates were aware of her, it was unlikely she would try anything more. But they would have to keep a closer eye on her in the future.

"You better break this habit, fast.", Steelhand firmly responded, "Unless you want to get on the wrong side of some of the other prisoners here. Whatever happened on the outside, in here it's over, understand?"

South Wing Activity Area

Umbra was mentally berating herself for drawing Steelhand’s attention. Her first impression of him seemed to be proving all too true. Although she hadn’t really hoped to accomplish anything by her smile and gesture, it might’ve caught a less experienced guard off-guard. Now, Steelhand would likely keep a much closer eye on her. This would make it much harder in the future if she needed to do something. Umbra preferred to keep her options open.

Umbra mentally shrugged. If the need arose to do something and it came down to it, she would think of something then. No use worrying over what couldn’t be helped. Umbra did feel a bit of curiosity regarding Steelhand. Because of her reconnaissance training, she had become somewhat of an information hound. It never hurt to know things. One never knew what tiny little piece of information could come in handy later. Umbra regarded Steelhand as he began to speak again.

"You better break this habit, fast.", Steelhand firmly responded, "Unless you want to get on the wrong side of some of the other prisoners here. Whatever happened on the outside, in here it's over, understand?"

“I understand, sir. I won’t cause any trouble. The last thing I’d want is to get into a fight with another inmate. Though,” Umbra added with a chuckle, “I suppose you can’t take my word for that. Inmates can’t be trusted, can they?”

A painful sorrow stirred in Umbra, though she did her best to conceal it. It was highly unlikely anyone here would ever trust her being a prisoner as she was.

Once my word had value in the Autobots. They could believe me. It wasn’t that long ago…well, I suppose it was a long time ago, considering. Strange how quickly trust is destroyed compared to how long it takes for it to build back up again. It’s almost funny. But I did choose this. I…

A rather annoying outburst shook Umbra from her reverie. She didn’t bother to conceal her irritation as she looked over to where Vroom had taunted the warden again. She saw him this time. Umbra marked his appearance down into memory. Still aware of Steelhand’s presence, however, she looked back to the senior guard and made a gesture of deference that seemed to say “I’ll leave you to your job then, go on”. After all, she wasn’t here to make enemies. Simply observe.

Halls

It would have been easy to allow Vroom's taunt to draw him back in to the area, and likely in to some form of extended debate so that the erratic Autobot could derive some sick sense of satisfaction of raging against the machine. He swore Vroom was more of a thorn in his circuits than a good many of the Decepticons that came here. But now was not the time to cave in to the former Autobot's craving for attention. Maximus would set aside some time later, if he had any such spare time, where Vroom could vent some of his frustrations in a more productive setting.

When he arrived within the boundaries of his office, he could see that it was already occupied, just as he expected. Tapping a brief command on one of the exterior consoles, the doors leading in to the warden's office sealed themselves closed behind the large Autobot. That alone would be a rare sight within the facility, as Fortress Maximus' doors were nearly always open--literally and figuratively.

He looked down at Punch as he stepped past the mech who appeared to be browsing through some of the surveillance screens.

"Getting acquainted?" Maximus asked calmly, before walking over to the energon dispensary and helping himself to a somewhat oversized cylinder of the refreshing, pink fluid. If there was one true burden that Maximus felt he had to deal with due to his size, it was the nagging guilt he felt at having to consume so much more energon than the typical Autobot just to remain functioning at peak performance. But that was a minor glitch. There were potentially much larger ones on the horizon. One was sitting right here in his office.

"I guess I'll just start off by saying I'm not incredibly comfortable with the kind of work you do. It's war. I get that. But the war's out there, not in here. Someone like you, well, there's a good chance someone like you will bring it with you."

Southern Wing Activity Area

Scowl offered a chuckle at Icepick’s observations. “Yeah, I suppose you can only eat so much then huh?” He inched a little bit closer to the action to try and hear better. While his audio receptors were quite sensitive still, there was an awful lot of noise now. Between the movement of the guards, prisoners and all the chatter going on it was hard to pick out individual voices.

“I can’t tell who he picked a fight with, although I’m not sure it matters. There are any number of mechs around here who would be itching for a fight. It sounds like the new guy got the best of him though.” He paused for a moment as his listened some more. “Oh, the new guy is Kronus. I remember hearing about him. The guards sometimes whisper about him, usually giving him crude nicknames.” He laughed again before turning back to Icepick.

A broad smile formed over his face. “At least now everyone will have something to talk about.” He slapped Icepick on the shoulder. “That’s what keeps me going here Icepick, conversations, or, at least, listening to them. Its going to be a good few cycles now with this bit of gossip running around.” The Monstercon rubbed his hands together in glee. Deep down inside though some small part of him realize how pitiful it was to be so excited over this. That bit had long since been buried under layer after layer of pure boredom so that he hardly noticed it anymore.

Rung’s Office

Rung had left Kronus standing before the chair situated just in front of his desk. The thief’s back was to the psychiatrist as Rung took his seat and pulled up Kronus’ file on his computer console. He had been seeing this particular inmate for the past 80.3 vorns, and thus far he was able to get the mech to admit that he has a problem. Unfortunately, Kronus would not accept just what his problem was.

After a moment of silence Kronus finally turned around and took a seat. The grin that had been plastered on his faceplate after Rung’s initial question grew further as he recalled the entire ordeal outside in the yard. Kronus sat back in his seat and placed his right leg on his left knee. After all, if he was going to be talking with the scrawny egghead, he’d better do it comfortably.

“He started it.”

Rung quickly looked up from his screen when Kronus finally responded to his query. He leaned forward and placed his elbows on the desktop. He rested his chin on the tips of his steepled actuators as he took in the entirety of Kronus’ body language and demeanor.

“I see. And what exactly did he start?”

The thief cocked his head to one side as he too took in the doctor’s body language and demeanor. He always hated coming here; the detestable little gnome somehow knew exactly what he was thinking before he even knew.

Kronus shifted in his seat before he finally responded.

“Look, you know how it is. You leave me be I’ll let you live. He crossed that line.”

Rung’s expression remained stoic as he listened to his patient’s account.

“How did he cross the line, Kronus?”

“That slageater kicked me!”

To emphasize his anger Kronus shot up from his seat and slammed his hands on the desk top the chain hanging from the cuffs around his wrists clanged against the front of the desk. Rung’s reaction was a mixture of surprise and fear. He hadn’t experienced this kind of reaction from this particular patient. In fact, what Kronus said before was true. If he was left alone then Kronus was a calm and very collected mech, but this recent occurrence had set the ‘Con off.

Rung put up his hands in an attempt to try and calm the mech down. It seemed to help as Kronus backed off slightly.

“You need to calm down, Kornus. You’ve made excellent progress, and I don’t want you to lose what little privileges you’ve been rewarded with, your time in the activity area included.”

“That was your idea, you little…”

He stopped before he finished what was on his mind. He certainly didn’t want to lose the time out in the yard, and he certainly did not want to be forced in to solitary again. When he was first brought in they shoved him there because they had no idea how to handle him. He spent vorns behind that thick door; he had no desire to spend any more time there even now.

He sat back down, this time he slid down low and let out a low grumble.

“I was just sitting there minding my own business when that slaglicker and his cronies showed up and told me to move. I ignored him and he slaggin’ kicked me!”

“Calmly, please.”

Kronus let out a heavy sigh as he went on.

“He kicked me so I got up and showed him why he should have left well enough alone.”

“By doing what, Kronus?”

“It was his own fault. The moron should have watched his back. I got behind him and wrapped my arm restraints around his neck.”

Subconsciously the thief had taken hold of the chain and fiddled with it while his optics seemed to focus on nothing in particular. A broad smile made its way to his face as he remembered how good it felt to tighten the chain and hear the various fuel lines and wires popped from the strain.

“Once I had him I just pulled. Heard those wires and lines snap like an organic's skeletal structure…was like a sweet symphony…”

Rung furrowed his eyebrows as he raised his hand and snapped his fingers to break the inmate’s concentration. Kronus looked back to the psychiatrist and slumped even further in his chair.

“I know it’s been hard for you here, Kronus, but you have to understand you’re a special case. It’s difficult for any of us to understand what you go through and what you’ve already been through. And that’s why I’m here.”

The doctor folded his hands in front of himself and let out a low sigh before he continued.

“I believe you. I know you’re not one to throw away what little freedom you’ve already worked so hard to acquire. That’s why I’m going to recommend that you not be put into solitary. However, I am going to require that your appointments with me be doubled. Is that understood?”

A simple nod was Kronus’ only response.

“Good. Now, in the meantime Streamlight will take you back to your cell while I contact the warden to give him my evaluation.”

Rung motioned for the inmate to stand and guided him back to the door.

Streamlight heard the door slide open to reveal both the psychiatrist and Kronus. Without a word the young guard moved in and took hold of the thief’s forearm and began to guide him out of the doctor’s office. Before the outer door slid shut Streamlight looked over his shoulder and flashed the doctor a slight nod and a small smile.

Once the door had closed Rung returned to his office and took a seat behind his desk. He stared at the terminal in front of him quickly reading through the text that had been taken during the interview. As with all of his patients Rung would always record their sessions using his terminal which, thanks to its software package, would convert the spoke recordings to text.

Once he was satisfied that the information was correct, Rung opened a communications channel with Fortress Maximus.

>>”Fortress Maximus, this is Rung. Streamlight was just here with Kronus and he and I had a very informative discussion. It would seem, sir, that my patient was forced to defend himself from the inmate he ultimately attacked. I know Kronus, and he would not willingly put his freedom on the line unless he was provoked. I recommend he be kept out of solitary and that his appointments with me be doubled. I believe if he were to be locked away for any length of time any progress he has made would be lost.”<<

South Wing Activity Area

Steelhand stood firm as he watched Umbra, though her words only served to confuse him. He'd heard prisoners tell him a thousand times that they weren't going to cause any trouble. But the "inmates can't be trusted" comment... that was a new one, and he didn't know what to think of that.

Is she mocking me? Toying with me? Is this some kind of head game?

She was well trained, that was for sure, as he couldn't read much from her facial expression. This cemented his earlier thought about keeping a closer watch on her. His train of thought was then interrupted by the usual cravings of attention from Vroom. From her reaction it was obvious that Umbra didn't care for the Autobot inmate's antics either. Maybe that had something to do with her sneaking earlier.

Annoyance came over Steelhand as Umbra gestured him to "get back to his job", which felt like a slap in the face. It may not have seemed like much to others, but it felt disrespectful to him. Fortunately for Umbra, Steelhand wasn't the type of bot to abuse his authority to keep inmates in their place. He would never hit an inmate, male or female, unless there was an actual threat to him or one of the other staff or inmates. But he would make himself perfectly clear verbally.

"Know your place, don't think for an astrosecond you can dismiss me like that." he said, looking her straight in the optics with authority, "This is your first and only warning. I've got my optics on you. Try anything and you'll be going straight to solitary."

Finished with Umbra, Steelhand turned and unceremoniously went back to his normal patrol, which would take him toward Vroom. He hoped the Autobot inmate was done taunting the guards, he was not in the mood to hear more.

South Wing Activity Area

Umbra listened attentively as Steelhand dismissed her and watched him return to his rounds. Umbra considered their conversation. It seemed Steelhand had misinterpreted her gesture. It was meant as more of an act of deference to his authority. But…It wasn’t likely that he was fully aware that Vroom was the initial trigger for her behavior, though he probably suspected it. Initially when she had been acting on instinct, she’d meant to do something about it. But…it wasn’t her place to do so. Handing off that responsibility to Steelhand had probably seemed really insolent. So, she had been unintentionally out of line.

“Scrap,” Umbra muttered under her breath, expressing her self-loathing.

In any case, Steelhand had given sound advice. She needed to adjust to the fact that the war did not exist here. Umbra had been treating Steelhand more like another Autobot rather than a prison guard. This habit had to be broken immediately. She was becoming her own worst enemy.

You’re not an Autobot anymore, Umbra. Get used to it. Adjust.

Her optics continued to follow Steelhand as she tried to set her thoughts more into line with that of a prisoner. She thought of what kind of prisoner she should become. Umbra had only the highest respect for her superiors, which is what Steelhand was in this case. So, she would try to keep her head down around him and other guards and watch her words. From now on, anyway. As she pondered this, Steelhand vanished from her sight. Her training asserted itself once more.

Umbra melted into the crowd of prisoners around her, slipping smoothly between the prisoners. She walked casually-so as to appear like she is just wandering the area instead of having an actual goal in mind-in the denser crowds until Steelhand came into sight once more and stopped. She wandered around without any real direction for a moment, watching Steelhand’s movement in her peripheral vision. Realizing that Steelhand would be keeping an optic out for her, she stayed back as he continued his rounds. Following him wouldn’t be the best course.

Umbra began a slightly more direct route toward Vroom, traveling through dense crowds of prisoners to avoid being singled out by other guards easily and to keep a good distance away from Steelhand. She didn’t care to provoke him again. Once she had a clear visual of Vroom from a fair distance away, she stood slightly behind and to the right of a nearby group of prisoners turning to the side looking bored.

She folded her arms over her chest plate and watched the prisoners in front of her. Among them, she thought she saw some decepticons that she recognized, though that wouldn’t really surprise her. She had faced several decepticons in the war. She also noted some guards performing their rounds. Her first time in the activity area had been dedicated to learning the patterns of the guard rounds, so she didn’t bother paying much attention to them.

While she observed the prisoners in her direct line of sight, she kept tabs on Vroom using her peripheral vision. Umbra was very curious to see how this would pan out. She had quickly discovered that a bot needed something to do in this prison to stay sane. In her cell, she would memorize the guards’ rounds and practice her technique in diffusion. Out here, she would observe. And, perhaps, ask some questions of someone when she got the opportunity, which would be soon hopefully.

Southern Wing Activity Area

Icepick grinned and nodded as Scowl attempted to get a better sense of what exactly had gone on. Though he couldn't immediately identify who the victim of the attack was, he also agreed that it didn't really matter. It would get around. It always did around here. Every confrontation, no matter how small, allowed for a shift in the unspoken power structure and influence that existed between the inmates. Someone moving a little further up the food chain, someone else moving a little further down.

"That they do. Such a shame too. He's probably not as bad as the rumors make him out to be," Icepick chuckled. "Though after that little display, I could be completely wrong in that regard. Our little gang's not so bad....unless we all get together. Heh."

It had been so long since that happened that Icepick could scarcely recall what all went down. So much of it was a blur--and that was accounting for what vague imagery he could recall in the first place. When the Monstructor Six came together, in the truest sense of the word, Icepick had no memory at all. But he'd heard stories. Oh, had he heard stories!

Those were the days.

"You're so right. This'll have the commons chattering for the next few orns, easy."

Icepick smiled and allowed his optics to continue surveying the area. Just because something supremely interesting had happened, didn't mean the place would suddenly go quiet. In fact, it was usually during those times that other captives might take the opportunity to engage in a little mischief of their own. Granted, things were settling again, so they were much more likely to gain the attention of the guards just as quickly as friend Kronus had. All the more reason why Icepick was content to simply watch. Until...

"Well well," Icepick began, having caught a glimpse of a rather lithe and curvacious femme that had been talking to one of the more notable guards, Steelhand. Icepick had only managed a sparing glance before she seemed to vanish in to the milling groups. Had he seen her around here before? He couldn't recall. If he hadn't, he had to wonder why not.

"I'm not sure...but I think I might have seen some of the most stunningly, polished metal I've laid an optic on in quite some time."

South Wing Activity Area

Vroom chuckled as Fortress Maximus left. He knew there was a fine line between a show of rebellious spirit and just plain being obnoxious so he said nothing further for the time being. He privately wondered if Maximus really understood what all his actions were about or if he stood war too above others, literally and figuratively, to truly comprehend what was at work. He shook his head concluding that the later was probably the most probably.

He turned and headed towards the exercise section of the area. Might as well get in some physical activity to prepare for his next show especially since the Decepticon he had gone to talk to had proven no fun at all.

Fortress Maximus' Office

Punch looked up from the files and stood up to acknowledge his superior's entrance.
"Sorry Sir, in my line of work you know the lay of the land or you are dead, and I am no good to the cause if I am dead.

"I understand your sentiment though Sir, I'm not incredibly comfortable with what the other side of me is capable of either - I do not enjoy the pain I bring to friend or foe alike, but wisdom is knowing when sacrifices have to be made for the good of the Autobots, and as you rightly said, this is war. Whilst my presence here will bring temporary disruption to your facility, you will agree that the long term benefits outweigh the risks." He could feel the Counterpunch side of his personality screaming at him HOW DARE HE TALK TO US LIKE THAT!!? HAS HE NO IDEA OF THE RISKS WE TAKE FOR HIS CAUSE??! Punch fought for the briefest second to regain control of himself. That was happening far too often, he just hoped that it was that easy to break back through one the other side was in the lead...

After a second, Punch stood up. He was never comfortable having to a brief a superior officer, especially not one of Maximus' stature. He solemnly opened the lid of a laptop-terminal, punched in a handful of codes and one of the inmates files came up on the screen. He kept the screen pointing towards him and stared intently at the file.

"From the files I have analysed, this individual currently looks like the most useful to me and is the most likely to get me to Scorponok. My orders are simple, infiltrate the Decepticons command structure, specifically their strategic officers, and prevent their operations from succeeding. Garrus-9 is my insertion point, and until I am fully entrenched, I believe you are to be my handler, and as I said before, I calculate that this inmate gives me the greatest chance of success in both breaking out and getting to the Decepticon fleet - not an easy feat considering how scattered they are, but Intel reports state that Scorponok may be in the area."

He placed the lap top on the table still facing him, and away from Maximus, and looked up at the face of his commander.

"What I need from you Sir, is to know what safeguards you wish to put in place to ensure minimum casualties to the guards and inmates alike in my escape. Once I am inside, I will not be able to show mercy or clemency to the staff as I will have a cover to maintain that they can not know of, under any cicumstances. Not even Rung is to know, and I have no doubt that I will meet him on more than one occasion, Counterpunch is well known for his hair-trigger and I have seen a few of your guards can be a bit heavy handed at times."

"This is the inmate I have selected. All the others are either too tightly knit as a team or are not dedicated enough to the Decepticon cause to want to rejoin the main force immediately upon extraction. I need an individual as crazy as Counterpunch, and this is it..." At the mention of his name, his alter-ego began to surface, Ohh! I like him... We will have great fun together! HA HA HAA!!

Punch scrunched his eyes up to regain control, turned the laptop around and pushed it to Fortress Maximus' side of the desk to reveal the file on Kronus.


(OOC: Not sure if its known that Scorponok is in the area or not, will remove reference if I've got that wrong.)

Corridors – Southern Wing – Level 4 – Block C

The trek from the upper level where Rung’s office was located down to the lower levels of the penal facility was done in total silence from both Streamlight and Kronus. Once they rounded the last corner that led to his cell, Streamlight finally spoke up.

“I’m sorry you’re first time out in the activity area wasn’t a pleasant one. Maybe when you’re allowed back out things will go much more smoothly.”

Kronus let out a low sigh as he moved along next to the young guard. Oh yes, he was going to have to kill this naïve little brat. But for now he’d play along and get Streamlight on his side…work his little magic in order to win him over even more.

“Thank you, Streamlight. You’re the only guard who’s been assigned to me to actually treat me like a normal mech.”

The young guard looked over at the slightly taller mech and flashed him a bright smile. It was the truth; he didn’t feel that any inmate should be treated worse or better than any other mech. Streamlight picked up his pace slightly as they finally arrived at Kronus’ cell. Reluctantly the guard punched in his code and waited as the cell door slid open.

“Umm, you’ll have to get into position.”

Kronus nodded slightly as he moved into the cell and pressed his back against the far wall. The thief raised his restrained hands above his head and waited until the wall restraints clicked into place around his wrists just below the cuffs. His ankles were also locked into place at the same time.

Once the inmate was secured Streamlight stepped up the Kronus and removed the arm restraints. He had already turned to leave when he heard Kronus call him softly.

“Streamlight. The face restraint. Please, I can’t take it anymore. Take it off, just for a little while, please.”

The young guard’s jaw dropped not believing what the inmate had asked of him. How could he ask that? But it’ll only be for a little while, and he’ll be in his cell. What harm could it do?

After a moment of quiet contemplation, Streamlight looked back up at the already restrained mech, Kronus’s optics focused intently on the young guard.

“Please.”

Streamlight looked over his shoulder just to be sure no one was in the area before he looked back to the thief. Slowly he made his way to the console next to the door and motioned for Kronus to place his head against the wall. He complied without hesitation and Streamlight activated the neck restraint so he could safely remove the face covering.

“I’ll have to leave the wall restraints in place, I can’t have you…you know…”

“I understand.”

Streamlight then made his way to the ‘Con and carefully removed the face restraint. In all the vorns he had been assigned to the thief he never once laid his optics on his entire face. There before him was a ‘Con who, quite possibly could get by on just his looks alone, but he was an experienced thief, and his looks were an asset.

Not only was Kronus grateful that the guard had done as he asked, but the act only verified that he truly was as gullible as Kronus had suspected. If he was willing to remove his face restraint then he’d be willing to do just about anything. This little act of trust was simply a test. One the young guard passed with flying colors.

Kronus flexed his jaw slightly before he looked back down at Steamlight. He offered him a grateful nod, well, a nod as best he could manage with his neck still restrained.

“Thank you, Streamlight.”

“You’re welcome. I need to make my rounds but I’ll be back to put the face restraint back on. So you have a few breems and then I’ll have to…okay?”

“Yes. I know.”

With that Streamlight backed out of the cell, the door slide closed and from the outside he secured the locking mechanism. He waited a moment before he quickly made his way down the corridor to check in with the other inmates on the Block.

Once his guard was gone a broad, demented smile spread across Kronus’ faceplate.