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Autobot Alert!

2024-11-23T23:37:34Z

Bigmanhelperhouseman: /* Synopsis */

{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[Find Your Fate Junior]] #7
|prev=Decepticon Poison
|next=Project Brain Drain
|title="Autobot Alert!"
|image=Autobot_Alert!cover.jpg
|caption=Maybe [[Arcee (G1)|Arcee]] will like me better if I give her this giant pearl?
|publisher=[[Ballantine Books]]
|imprint=[[Find Your Fate Junior]]
|date=1986
|writer=[[Judith Bauer Stamper]]
|illustrator=[[William Schmidt]] (interior pencils and cover painting)
|pagecount=73 pp
|ISBN=ISBN 0-345-33388-8 ISBN 9780345333889
}}
Two emergencies arise at once: the Decepticons are planning to take over all of Earth's communication satellites, and at the same time may have discovered the secret of an ancient power booster. Can [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] and his Autobots defeat the Decepticons, or will this double attack lead to a Decepticon victory?

The answers to these questions... are up to '''[[you]]'''!

==Synopsis==
[[File:AutobotAlertKupandHotRod.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
{{anchor|Page 1}}'''(PAGE_1)''' Within the city of [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]], [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]], teenage Autobot, is hurrying back from his karate lessons. Briefly stopping for an Energon snack, he soon comes upon the grandfatherly [[Kup (G1)|Kup]] and begins to pester the old Autobot. Kup is surprised to hear that Hot Rod has learned of a secret mission on which [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]], [[Springer (G1)|Springer]] and [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]] have been sent out on. {{anchor|Page 8}}'''(PAGE_8)''' Kup is annoyed that Hot Rod has come upon this information, but before he can scold the young Autobot, [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] enters the room. Kup attempts to address his commander, but is interrupted once more, this time by an AUTOBOT ALERT! [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] appears on a monitor with an important message from Earth orbit. {{anchor|Page 11}}'''(PAGE_11)''' Cosmos reports that he has detected Decepticon activity in nearby space. Cosmos elaborates that the enemy is approaching him quickly before his transmission is cut short. Moments later, [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] enters the room, and explains that he was watching a baseball game on television, when the image was replaced by the Decepticon faction symbol! The Autobots come to the conclusion that this is what Cosmos tried to warn them about; not only have the Decepticons sabotaged the space-bound Autobot, but they have also taken over Earth’s communication satellites! Kup tells his comrades that more troubles lurk ahead, as he points down a long hallway. {{anchor|Page 26}}'''(PAGE_26)''' Blurr streaks into view, and reports that his secret mission has ended in disaster. Springer is out of commission, Beachcomber has been abducted, and have stolen a coded message containing the "ancient Autobot secret!" The Autobots cannot afford to allow this secret to be decoded by the Decepticons! {{anchor|Page 27}}'''(PAGE_27)''' Hot Rod is quick to point out that the Decepticon’s hostile takeover of Earth’s communications is just as dire a situation, as it is the first step in the Decepticons taking control of the planet. {{anchor|Page 22}}'''(PAGE_22)''' The Autobots begin to argue over which mission should be prioritized. Should the Autobots...

'''''Take on the Decepticons in space?'' (>>[[#Page 12|PAGE_12]]>>)'''

'''''Retrieve the secret to an ancient Autobot formula?'' (>>[[#Page 35|PAGE_35]]>>)'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots decide to prioritize the Decepticons’ attack on Earth’s satellites.'' {{anchor|Page 12}}(>>PAGE_12>>)''' Ultra Magnus that an ancient formula will do them little good if they are all already enslaved by the Decepticons. He then orders Bumblebee to retrieve his television set, while he triangulates Cosmos’s last known position. Bumblebee bursts back to the room, pointing to the image on the screen of his portable TV; [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]] is addressing the Earth populace! The Decepticon leader proclaims that the people of Earth have nothing to fear so long as they follow his orders. {{anchor|Page 25}}'''(PAGE_25)''' Ultra Magnus contacts [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] in Metroplex’s garage. Ultra Magnus instructs the Autobot medic to prepare a space shuttle for take-off, and make sure that it’s firepower capabilities are optimized. Ultra Magnus then picks out five Autobots to accompany him on this mission: [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]], [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]], [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]], [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] and [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]]. Ratchet reports that there is a malfunction in the shuttle’s engine, so Ultra Magnus must wait on standby as it is attended to. Meanwhile, Hot Rod stands aside, frustrated that he was not picked to go along on the mission. {{anchor|Page 58}}'''(PAGE_58)''' Bumblebee notices Hot Rod’s sour disposition, and tries to cheer up the young Autobot. Hot Rod cannot hide his eagerness to fight the Decepticon forces, so Bumblebee informs him that he saw Astrotrain skulking nearby the previous night. Though at the time, Bumblebee thought that it was nothing more than a usual Decepticon transport, he now wonders if it didn’t have more to do with the Decepticon’s current plot. Hot Rod becomes excited at the news; if Astrotrain is still stationed nearby, Hot Rod can have his shot at being a hero! {{anchor|Page 52}}'''(PAGE_52)''' Hot Rod asks Bumblebee to join him in tracking down Astrotrain. Not only could they potentially foil the Decepticons’ ploy, but it would also serve as an opportunity to test [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]]’s latest invention: laser-ignited explosives! Bumblebee grins in agreement. Ratchet then reports that the shuttle is ready for take off. Which group of Autobots would [[you]] wish to follow?

:'''''Tag along with Hot Rod and Bumblebee?'' (>>[[#Page 45|PAGE_45]]>>)'''

:'''''Take off with Ultra Magnus and his crew?'' (>>[[#Page 18|PAGE_18]]>>)'''

[[File:AutobotAlertAstrotrain.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 52|PAGE_52]]<<)''' '''''You follow Hot Rod and Bumblebee on their clandestine mission.'' {{anchor|Page 45}}(>>PAGE_45>>)''' The two Autobots sneak out of Metroplex. They are carrying in silver backpacks the new laser weapons recently developed by Perceptor. Soon they are where Bumblebee last saw Astrotrain, a deserted valley south of the Autobot city. Sure enough, the duo quickly find Astrotrain, surrounded by numerous other Decepticons. {{anchor|Page 14}}'''(PAGE_14)''' Hot Rod concludes that the [[Constructicon (G1)|Constructicons]] must have been working overtime, as a complex of new buildings have been recently erected near Astrotrain’s location. Bumblebee, having the best vision amongst the Autobots, has already checked out the Decepticons’ security systems, and carefully leads Hot Rod towards the control centre for the Decepticons’ space plot. {{anchor|Page 23}}'''(PAGE_23)''' Darting between trees to remain unseen, the two Autobots make their way into the heart of the Decepticons’ stronghold. They come across Astrotrain’s launch sight, and overhear the Decepticons [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] and [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]] discussing that the takeoff time will be in ten minutes. {{anchor|Page 34}}'''(PAGE_34)''' Upon learning this, Hot Rod is determined to stow away inside Astrotrain to stop the Decepticons’ plan. Bumblebee argues that it would be wiser to infiltrate the control centre on Earth. Which plan should the Autobots choose?

::'''''Go along with Hot Rod’s plan?'' (>>[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]>>)'''

::'''''Go along with Bumblebee’s plan?'' (>>[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 34|PAGE_34]]<<)''' '''''The two Autobots decide to stowaway inside of Astrotrain.'' {{anchor|Page 36}}(>>PAGE_36>>)''' Hot Rod grabs Bumblebee, and the two sneak onto a trailer pulled by a Constructicon and hide amongst the bombs within. Once the trailer is brought into Astrotrain’s munitions hold, the Decepticon shuttle takes off. From their hiding place, Hot Rod spots four Decepticons wearing silver suits and gas masks exiting a room marked "SPACE GEAR." Figuring that these outfits would make for perfect disguises, the two Autobots move to procure some for themselves once the coast is clear. {{anchor|Page 50}}'''(PAGE_50)''' Though the outfit is ill-fitting in Bumblebee’s case, the two Autobots are soon in gear. No sooner do they exit the space gear room that their disguises are put to the test, as [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] round a corner and walk towards the duo. {{anchor|Page 70}}'''(PAGE_70)''' Thankfully the Decepticons do not see through the disguises and continue on their way. Inspecting Astrotrain’s interior, Bumblebee happens to spot [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]] through one of the shuttle’s windows. Alerting Hot Rod to come take a look, the later also spots the Autobot space shuttle heading in their direction. Ultra Magnus and the others are heading into a Decepticon trap! {{anchor|Page 19}}'''(PAGE_19)''' Hot Rod mulls over his options. He could attempt to commandeer Astrotrain’s military command post to contact his friends, but the room will undoubtedly be heavily guarded. He could also attempt to find a hiding spot, and use the laser weapons he brought along on Cyclonus. The ensuing explosion would warn the Autobots of trouble. What to do?

:::'''''Attempt to infiltrate Astrotrain’s military control room?'' (>>[[#Page 68|PAGE_68]]>>)'''

:::'''''Attempt to fire upon Cyclonus from a hiding place?'' (>>[[#Page 33|PAGE_33]]>>)'''

[[File:AutobotAlertBumblebeedisguise.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 19|PAGE_19]]<<)''' '''''Hot Rod decides to head for Astrotrain’s military control room.'' {{anchor|Page 68}}(>>PAGE_68>>)''' Bumblebee trails nervously behind the young Autobot, as the two of them walk past the guards. Hot Rod finds a control panel that will enable him to deactivate Cyclonus. But Bumblebee turns around to see [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]]! The Decepticon scanner is well known for his abilities to uncover hiding Autobots, no matter where they are! Bumblebee urges Hot Rod to disable Cyclonus immediately! {{anchor|Page 17}}'''(PAGE_17)''' Scourge grabs a hold of Hot Rod just as the Autobot has finishes punching a series of buttons on a keyboard. A series of missiles shoot out from Astrotrain, and collide with Cyclonus! The Autobot shuttle changes its trajectory towards a path safely outside the Decepticons’ range. But victory is short lived for Bumblebee and Hot Rod, as Scourge grabs the two of them, and throws them out into the emptiness of space. The two Autobots can do nothing but float silently, waiting for a rescue that may never come!

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 19|PAGE_19]]<<)''' '''''Hot Rod decides to attack Cyclonus from a hiding place.'' {{anchor|Page 33}}(>>PAGE_33>>)''' Both him and Bumblebee hide in a room marked "DIRTY TRICKS DEPARTMENT" just as [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] passes by. Though they are alone in the room, they hear Laserbeak coming ever closer. {{anchor|Page 40}}'''(PAGE_40)''' Just as Laserbeak is about to enter the dirty tricks department room, he is called away to the control room, to Bumblebee’s relief. Hot Rod finds a hatch leading to the space shuttle’s outside, and opens his case of laser weapons. Selecting a rapid-fire, high-intensity rifle cannon, he advises Bumblebee to plug his ears. Taking aim at Cyclonus, Hot Rod pulls the trigger, and a massive blast is emitted by the weapon! {{anchor|Page 48}}'''(PAGE_48)''' The two Autobots pick themselves off the floor after being knocked down by the rifle’s recoil. Looking out into space, they spot Cyclonus floating helplessly with a hole ripped through his side. The Autobot shuttle hovers cautiously away from Cyclonus’s mangled remains. The Decepticons are screeching in panic, and Hot Rod declares his mission accomplished. The two Autobots decide to wait out the remainder of Astrotrain’s voyage in hiding, and make their escape once he docks. Bumblebee and Hot Rod conceal themselves inside Laserbeak’s box of dirty tricks — plastic spiders, rubber mice, and vampire fangs.

::::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 34|PAGE_34]]<<)''' '''''The two Autobots decide to infiltrate the Decepticons’ control centre.'' {{anchor|Page 64}}(>>PAGE_64>>)''' Waiting until Astrotrain takes off, Bumblebee and Hot Rod make their move. Concealing themselves in the fray clouds of exhaust left behind by the shuttle, the duo creep deeper into the Decepticon’s complex and hide behind a bank of computers. Around them, they can hear the Decepticons cheering as they watch Astrotrain disappear beyond Earth’s atmosphere. Then, Glavatron’s smirking face appears across the monitor screens in the room. The Decepticon commander declares that all should bow before their TV sets in his honour! {{anchor|Page 66}}'''(PAGE_66)''' While the Decepticons are busy bowing, the two Autobots slip into a room lined with hardware and monitors. Now at the very centre of the Decepticons’ operation, Bumblebee is struggling to remember a code he learned in Advanced Espionage. Said code can scramble any Decepticon computer program. Unfortunately, Bumblebee cannot remember the last digit he needs to input for the code to work. While Bumblebee attempts to remember, Hot Rod spots a small red button marked "TOP SECURITY/DESTRUCT SYSTEM." {{anchor|Page 51}}'''(PAGE_51)''' Figuring the button spells an easy solution to their problem, Hot Rod suggests they press it. But Bumblebee suggests they instead go ahead and use his code, as he believes he's just remembered the last number needed to complete it. Which course of action to take?

:::'''''Input Bumblebee’s code?'' (>>[[#Page 56|PAGE_56]]>>)'''

:::'''''Press the red button?'' (>>[[#Page 44|PAGE_44]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 51|PAGE_51]]<<)''' '''''Bumblebee insists that all the homework he’s done in Advanced Espionage isn’t going to go to waste, and is adamant in inputing the code.'' {{anchor|Page 56}}(>>PAGE_56>>)''' After entering the ten-digit code and pressing "enter," the two Autobots inspect the monitors to see the code’s effect on the Decepticons. Astrotrain begins to spin wildly out of control while Cyclonus, Galvatron’s personal ship, is helplessly immobilized. Being broadcast around the world is Galvatron’s enraged face, until it fades out to static. The sabotage job done, Hot Rod and Bumblebee quickly make their escape and head for home. In the distance, they can see the valley’s sky being lit up by the Decepticons’ computers exploding.

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 51|PAGE_51]]<<)''' '''''Hot Rod insists on taking the simplest course of action presented before the Autobots, and presses the red button.'' {{anchor|Page 44}}(>>PAGE_44>>)''' Unfortunately, the button does nothing but sound an alarm! Though Hot Rod and Bumblebee attempt to run, they are barred in the control room. Galvatron’s face on the monitors around them focus on the two prisoners. Glavatron gloats that they are now his hostages, and with their lives on the line, he can now manipulate Ultra Magnus towards certain doom. Rodimus covers his face in shame and realizes that it is…

::::'''THE END'''

[[File:AutobotAlertCyclonusonscreen.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 52|PAGE_52]]<<)''' '''''You follow Ultra Magnus and company on their space-bound mission.'' {{anchor|Page 18}}(>>PAGE_18>>)''' Ultra Magnus and his crew don special space gear for solar protection, then enter their space shuttle. The shuttle takes off, and the Autobots soon find themselves in orbit around the Earth. They soon spot Cosmos, but Ultra Magnus orders the shuttle to come to a halt when he sees Cyclonus, Galavatron’s personal ship, off in the distance. {{anchor|Page 59}}'''(PAGE_59)''' Jazz quickly maneuvers the shuttle towards Cosmos, who is retrieve by Powerglide and Mirage. Once safely inside the shuttle, Mirage informs the crew that Cosmos is still alive, but will need Ratchet’s expertise to get the Autobot flying saucer back in working order. Ultra Magnus’s voice then booms over the intercom, ordering all personnel to report to the control deck. The Autobots leave Cosmos are rejoin their commander. {{anchor|Page 20}}'''(PAGE_20)''' Ultra Magnus has used the shuttle’s high-powered censors on Cyclonus, and has detected a complex grid of transmitters attached to the Decepticon. Cyclonus himself is the Decepticons’ jamming device! And the Autobots must move quickly lest he begins jamming their communications as well. {{anchor|Page 4}}'''(PAGE_4)''' Their options limited, Ultra Magnus decides to launch an all-out attack on Cyclonus, hoping Galvatron isn’t on board to help him defend himself. But Powerglide is wary of this strategy, and confides in Swoop that he believes a more sneaky approach would better benefit the Autobots. Which strategy should the Autobots choose at this juncture?

::'''''An all-out attack, as Ultra Magnus orders?'' (>>[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]>>)'''

::'''''A sneak attack, as Powerglide suggests?'' (>>[[#Page 46|PAGE_46]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 4|PAGE_4]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots follow Ultra Magnus’s orders, and decide to launch an all-out attack against Cyclonus.'' {{anchor|Page 24}}(>>PAGE_24>>)''' Prowl programs the shuttle’s thrusters to propel them directly towards the giant Decepticon. When they near their enemy, Jazz begins firing the shuttle’s laser cannons and rips a hole in Cyclonus’s side. But as soon as Cyclonus realizes he is under attack, Galvatron’s voice booms out from within the air warrior, declaring that the Autobots are fools for daring to attack him. Galvatron emerges from Cyclonus, along with a fleet of Decepticon [[multiwing jet fighter]]s! {{anchor|Page 32}}'''(PAGE_32)''' The Autobots immediately realize what horrible predicament they find themselves in, hopelessly outmatched by the Decepticons. Mirage is the first to fall, reduced to a heap by a blast courtesy of Galvatron. Ultra Magnus attempts a retreat, but the shuttle is torn asunder by a bomb. The Autobots are left helpless as their shuttle breaks apart, and become adrift in the gulf of space as the Decepticons laugh triumphantly. The earthling will know the Decepticons as their future masters, and television broadcasts will be worse than ever before!

:::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 4|PAGE_4]]<<)''' '''''While Ultra Magnus busies himself giving orders, Powerglide and Swoop sneak off to implement their own plan of attack.'' {{anchor|Page 46}}(>>PAGE_46>>)''' Powerglide instructs Swoop that the Dinobot will be in charge of firepower, while he will take care of the fancy maneuvers himself. When the pair are halfway between Cyclonus and the Autobot shuttle, they split up. Powerglide heads in front of Cyclonus, while Swoop sneaks up behind the Decepticon. Once Cyclonus spots Powerglide, he unleashes all his firepower onto the Autobot, who expertly dodges the barrage of firepower. {{anchor|Page 53}}'''(PAGE_53)''' While Cyclonus is distracted, Swoop destroys the Decepticons’ transmission module, ending their broadcasts. Cyclonus is left dazed and confused from Swoop’s sneak attack, and the two Autobots retreat back to the shuttle. Earth is saved from the Decepticons’ latest plot, and Bumblebee’s television starts working correctly again, just in time for his favourite show!

:::'''THE END'''

[[File:AutobotAlertMetroplex.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
:'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots decide to prioritize the Decepticons’ theft of the coded message.'' {{anchor|Page 35}}(>>PAGE_35>>)''' Blurr in particular is anxious to retrieve the stolen information. Ultra Magnus decides to take Ratchet, Kup, Hot Rod, and a number of other Autobots on this mission. The Autobot leader then instructs Kup to divulge the nature of the ancient secret unto the younger Autobots. Always eager to spin a yarn, Kup begins to narrate before his captive audience. {{anchor|Page 61}}'''(PAGE_61)''' Kup explains that during the time when the Autobots’ and Decepticons’ war was consigned to the planet Cybertron, the Autobots possessed the formula for a power booster that could increase a warrior’s strength tenfold. Said formula was encased in a protective sphere of [[cybertite]]— a rare mineral. The formula, protective sphere and all, was thought long lost when it was projected into space by an enormous explosion. {{anchor|Page 6}}'''(PAGE_6)''' A month ago, Beachcomber discovered fragments of cybertite within a meteor crater in a nearby desert. Blurr and Springer were sent to help the Autobot geologist to scour the area for the formula. But the group's latest update about the search for the formula was intercepted by the Decepticons! Once Kup finishes his exposition, Ultra Magnus leads his squadron out of Metroplex, and towards the desert. {{anchor|Page 16}}'''(PAGE_16)''' The Autobots arrive shortly at their desert research centre. Ultra Magnus orders Ratchet inside the bullet-ridden building, instructing him to get Springer back in working order. Although the task is challenging, Ratchet succeeds in reviving Springer. Immediately upon regaining consciousness, Springer asks if the Autobots received his message. Kup explains that the Decepticons interrupted their flow of information, and so Springer reveals what their findings have led the desert team to conclude; the meteor has not been in the crater for a long time. During the sixteenth century, Spanish explorers from the ship ''[[Seville]]'' discovered the curious object. Thanks to a diary left behind by one of the Spanish sailors, Springer learned not only this, but also that the humans planned to carry the sphere back to [[Spain]]. {{anchor|Page 57}}'''(PAGE_57)''' However, further research revealed that the ship never reached its destination, and sank off the coast of California. The Decepticons know that the formula is here on Earth, but whether or not they have fully decoded the message is unclear to the Autobots. Blurr says that he saw the Decepticons heading for the crater after they intercepted the coded message. If they still do not know the full story, then they will still be in the crater, digging futilely. But if the Decepticons are up-to-date, then they would have already left for California, and have a good head start on the Autobots. Ultra Magnus must decide to which location he should lead his Autobots next;

:'''''Should Ultra Magnus decide to head for the meteor crater, and attempt to destroy the coded message in Decepticon possession before they decrypt it?'' (>>[[#Page 65|PAGE_65]]>>)'''

:'''''Should Ultra Magnus assume that the Decepticons have already cracked the Autobots’ code, and not waste any time in heading to California?'' (>>[[#Page 38|PAGE_38]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 57|PAGE_57]]<<)''' '''''Ultra Magnus decides to head for the nearby meteor crater, hoping to stop the Decepticons before they fully decipher the Autobots’ message.'' {{anchor|Page 65}}(>>PAGE_65>>)''' Hot Rod is first to speed off towards the crater, eager to impress his commander.But to Hot Rod's chagrin, Blurr easily outpaces the teenage Autobot, and reaches the crater ten minutes before him. Once at the crater however, both Autobots find it empty, the Decepticons having already left. {{anchor|Page 49}}'''(PAGE_49)''' Hearing a faint groan coming from a nearby rock, Hot Rod and Blurr investigate and find Beachcomber, tied to a explosive device! The two of them are able to free their fellow Autobot, who informs them that the Decepticons indeed did decipher the message. Now, the Decepticons have a good two-hour head start on the Autobots, and will have access to the ancient formula before the Autobots can catch up to them! That means Decepticons with ten-times the power they possessed before! It also means that for the Autobots, this is…

::'''THE END'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 57|PAGE_57]]<<)''' '''''Ultra Magnus decides to assume the Decepticons are already headed for the formula’s true location, and wastes no time in ordering his troops to head there as well.'' {{anchor|Page 38}}(>>PAGE_38>>)''' Each Autobot is assigned a specific task. Powerglide is to fly ahead and search the waters off the coast of California for sunken ships. Blurr is to investigate the meteor crater to learn what the Decepticons know, as well as what they have done to Beachcomber. [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] will scout out the best road towards the coast. The rest of the Autobots are also given specialized assignments. Ultra Magnus reminds the other Autobots once more of the importance of retrieving the formula before dispatching them. {{anchor|Page 28}}'''(PAGE_28)''' The Autobots follow Hound to a deserted area of the California coast. Over the waters of the Pacific Ocean, Powerglide’s search is successful, and he begins to signal to the other Autobots that he has located the sunken remains of the ''Seville''. Before Ultra Magnus has time to address his troops, Blurr speeds onto the scene, announcing that he has spotted Decepticons nearing their location. {{anchor|Page 31}}'''(PAGE_31)''' Ultra Magnus seeks council with his best advisors, and together they formulate two possible plans. The first would be to raise the ship and retrieve the sphere themselves. Alternatively, they could go into hiding and wait for the Decepticons to raise the ship, so they could steal the sphere from them after they’ve done all the dirty work. Ultra Magnus asks you to make the decision for him.

::'''''Should the Autobots raise the ship themselves?'' (>>[[#Page 2|PAGE_2]]>>)'''

::'''''Should the Autobots hide and let the Decepticons do all the work for them?'' (>>[[#Page 13|PAGE_13]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 31|PAGE_31]]<<)''' '''''It is decided that the Autobots should raise the ship themselves.'' {{anchor|Page 2}}(>>PAGE_2>>)''' Blurr calculates that the Decepticons should be arriving in precisely 28 minutes and 14 seconds. Ultra Magnus devises three possible plans. The first strategy would rely on the strength of the Dinobot [[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]]. The mighty Autobot would use cables to tie up the ship, and drag it onto dry land. Once this is done, Hot Rod would be sent in to locate the sphere. {{anchor|Page 3}}'''(PAGE_3)''' Alternatively, Ultra Magnus could entrust [[Seaspray (G1)|Seaspray]] with finding the sphere. His mission would be to search the ''Seville'' while it is still underwater. The third strategy would rely on the teamwork of [[Grapple (G1)|Grapple]], Bumblebee and Hot Rod. Bumblebee will be entrusted with hooking Grapple’s crane to the ''Seville'', who in turn will be charged with lifting the ship, and Hot Rod will search for the sphere. Which plan should Ultra Magnus select?

:::'''''Should Sludge be charge with raising the ship?'' (>>[[#Page 5|PAGE_5]]>>)'''

:::'''''Should Seaspray search the ship underwater?'' (>>[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]>>)'''

:::'''''Should Grapple, Bumblebee and Hot Rod work together to retrieve the sphere?'' (>>[[#Page 67|PAGE_67]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Ultra Magnus entrusts Sludge with raising the ''Seville'' from the watery depths.'' {{anchor|Page 5}}(>>PAGE_5>>)''' The dimwitted dinosaur appears to grasp the overall gist of the plan, and is handed a cable by Hot Rod. With the cable in his saurian maw, Sludge makes his way to the water, and begins to wade out to sea. Once he nears the ship’s location however, Sludge hesitates and calls back to Ultra Magnus for instructions, inadvertently dropping the cable into the water. Ultra Magnus questions whether or not he made the correct decision. {{anchor|Page 71}}'''(PAGE_71)''' Ultra Magnus reminds Sludge of what he is tasked with, and murmurs some unflattering things about Dinobots under his breath. His mission clarified, Sludge dives underwater, and soon reemerges with the cable between his teeth, trailing the ''Seville'' behind him. After Sludge hoists the wreckage up the cliff where the rest of the Autobots stand at the ready, Hot Rod enters the vessel. He rummages through the entire ship until he uncovers the cybertite sphere! When Hot Rod re-emerges from the ''Seville'' with the glowing sphere above his head, the Autobots erupt in cheers. Ultra Magnus interrupts his troops’ celebration with an Autobot alert! Decepticon planes are advancing in the eastern sky! {{anchor|Page 10}}'''(PAGE_10)''' The sphere is given to Blurr, who transforms and takes off at top speed to store it within Metroplex. Ultra Magnus then orders his troops to hide and lie in wait to ambush their enemies. The Decepticons are caught off guard, and picked off one by one as they fly over the waters. Both waves of Decepticon planes are shot out of the skies by the Autobots, who claim victory this day!

::::'''THE END'''

[[File:AutobotAlertSeasprayCybertitesphere.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Ultra Magnus orders Seaspray to seek out the sphere underwater.'' {{anchor|Page 62}}(>>PAGE_62>>)''' Though Seaspray is nervous with being entrusted with such an important task, he accepts the mission and dives down towards the ''Seville''’s remains. Seaspray comes to find the Cybertite sphere in the ''Seville''’s captain’s quarters. Grabbing the glowing green ball, he begins to ascend back to the surface, but is met by a shark when he exits the ship’s wreckage! {{anchor|Page 9}}'''(PAGE_9)''' Though the shark doesn’t pose much of a threat to him, Seaspray does not want to lose the sphere in a struggle. The shark lunges at Seaspray, who manages to stun it with his underwater laser gun moments before it is upon him. Seaspray then hastily returns to dry land, and is greeted by the cheers of his fellow Autobots. The Autobots carry the sphere safely back to headquarters before the Decepticons even show up. The evil robots will be searching the waters in vain while the Autobots relearn the ancient formula’s secrets.

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Grapple, Bumblebee and Hot Rod are tasked with retrieving the Cybertite sphere.'' {{anchor|Page 67}}(>>PAGE_67>>)''' Grapple transforms to his vehicle mode, and instructs Bumblebee to jump onto the grappling hook at the end of his crane. Grapplen then swings his crane out over the ocean. Once Bumblebee spots the sunken ship below the surface, he ask Grapple to lower his boom. Bumblebee thus descends towards the wreckage. Once the hook comes to rest on the ''Seville'', he secures the line around the ship’s mast, and tugs three time on the steel cable, signalling Grapple to hoist the ship up. But nothing happens… Bumblebee signals Grapple to hoist the ship up again, and still no response. {{anchor|Page 60}}'''(PAGE_60)''' Back on dry land, Grapple calls for Ratchet; his crane arm has had a breakdown! Ratchet manages to restore Grapple’s crane to working order, but precious minutes have been lost. Grapple pulls the ''Seville'' up to the surface. As Hot Rod prepares to slide down the cable to search the breaching ship, the Autobots hear an ominous sound drawing nearer… {{anchor|Page 39}}'''(PAGE_39)''' A formation of Decepticon fighter planes are heading directly towards the Autobots! Before the Autobots can set up a defence, Galvatron bears down upon them, followed by [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]], [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]], [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]], Thrust and Frenzy. The Decepticons obliterate the ''Seville'' dangling from Grapples hook with a barrage of bombs and missiles. The ship, the sphere within, and the ancient Autobot formula are completely destroyed. The Autobots are helpless against the Decepticons’ superior might!

::::'''THE END'''

[[File:AutobotAlertDevastatorSeville.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 31|PAGE_31]]<<)''' '''''It is decided that the Autobots should lie in wait while the Decepticons raise the ship.'' {{anchor|Page 13}}(>>PAGE_13>>)''' From their hiding places, the Autobots soon hear the approaching Decepticon horde. Galvatron’s booming voice orders his troops to raise the ship from its resting place, and promises them strength beyond their wildest dreams! {{anchor|Page 54}}'''(PAGE_54)''' The Constructicons dive down in the water, and re-emerge as [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]], lifting up the ''Seville''. Springer, Seaspray and [[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]] watch the entire operation in silence. Springer devises a plan where the two "sea-assault" robots will distract the Decepticons while Springer rescues the sphere. Meanwhile, another group of Autobots hiding in a separate spot concoct their own plan to retrieve the sphere. [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]], [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] and Grapple. the "old heavies" of the Autobots, plan to use heavy artillery to defend the ''Seville'' while a "lightweight" Autobot searches the vessel for the sphere.

:::'''''To follow Springer’s team:'' (>>[[#Page 30|PAGE_30]]>>)'''

:::'''''To follow Brawn, Ironhide and Grapple:'' (>>[[#Page 41|PAGE_41]]>>)'''

[[File:AutobotAlertTopspin&Seaspray.jpg|thumb|right|200px]]
::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 54|PAGE_54]]<<)''' '''''Springer instructs the other two Autobots on what to do.'' {{anchor|Page 30}}(>>PAGE_30>>)''' He tells Seaspray and Topspin to sneak down the coast about a mile away, and come back on the water. When he sees them coming, he will make his move for the sphere. The seafaring robots take off, and Springer waits tensely. The Decepticons begin to climb aboard the ''Seville''. Then, a battle cry is heard as Topspin and Seaspray speed towards the Constructicons, lasers blasting away. Springer poises himself on the edge of a cliff as the Decepticons scramble out of the ''Seville'' and jumps! {{anchor|Page 42}}'''(PAGE_42)''' Thanks to his powerful jumping abilities, Springer makes it into the hold of the ''Seville''. He immediately begins his search for the cybertite sphere. While Seaspray and Topspin busy themselves outmaneuvering the Decepticond, Springer finds the cybertite sphere in an old leather chest. {{anchor|Page 72}}'''(PAGE_72)''' Grabbing the glowing green sphere securely, Springer climbs up onto the deck of the ''Seville'', and with another tremendous leap, returns to the cliffside he took off from. The other Autobots in hiding cheer at their comrade’s success. The sea-faring Autobots spot the sphere in Springer’s possession, and speed away from the Decepticons. While Springer hurries back to Autobot headquarters, the rest of the Autobots provide him with cover fire. When the Autobots are once more within Metroplex, Perceptor mixes up a batch of the power booster. The tide of war is about to change in the Autobots’ favour, thanks to their recovery of the ancient Autobot secret!

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 54|PAGE_54]]<<)''' '''''Grapple spins out his grappling hook towards the ship at Brawn and Ironhide’s insistence.'' {{anchor|Page 41}}(>>PAGE_41>>)''' Latching the hook on the ship below them, the Autobots plan to bring the ship towards them to better defend it. But they are spotted by Galvatron, who orders his troops to open fire on the trio! Caught in the cross-fire, the ''Seville'' is blown to smithereens, and the ancient Autobot secret within is lost forever. Which is unfortunate, as the Autobots are in need of a power booster as they are desperately outmatched by their enemies.

::::'''THE END'''

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters|nonumbering=true
|c1=
* [[Metroplex (G1)|Metroplex]]
* [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]]
* [[Kup (G1)|Kup]]
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]]
* [[Springer (G1)|Springer]]
* [[Blurr (G1)|Blurr]]
* [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]
* [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]]
* [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]]
* [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]]
* [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]]
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]]
* [[Swoop (G1)|Swoop]]
* [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]]
* [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]]
* [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]]
* [[Hound (G1)|Hound]]
* [[Sludge (G1)|Sludge]]
* [[Seaspray (G1)|Seaspray]]
* [[Grapple (G1)|Grapple]]
* [[Topspin (G1)|Topspin]]
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]]
* [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]]

|c2=
* [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]]
* [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]]
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]
* [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]
* [[Cyclonus (G1)|Cyclonus]]
* [[Scourge (G1)|Scourge]]
* [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]]
* [[Multiwing jet fighter]] Decepticons
* [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]
* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]]
* [[Blitzwing (G1)|Blitzwing]]
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] ''(see notes)''
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] ''(see notes)''
* [[Bonecrusher (G1)|Bonecrusher]] ''(see notes)''
* [[Long Haul (G1)|Long Haul]] ''(see notes)''
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] ''(see notes)''
* [[Scavenger (G1)|Scavenger]] ''(see notes)''
* [[Devastator (G1)|Devastator]]

|c3=
* [[You]]
}}

==Notes==
* ''Autobot Alert!'' represents the setting from after the movie, but with quite significant changes. For instance, [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] is the leader of the Autobots, [[Hot Rod (G1)|Hot Rod]] is still Hot Rod, and several characters who should be dead, aren't.
* While sneaking aboard a Decepticon spaceship in one thread, Hot Rod and [[Bumblebee (G1)|Bumblebee]] disguise themselves by putting on spacesuits. It's a mystery why a ship crewed by robots would have spacesuits in the first place. Not only this, but if one is to trust the illustrations, the space suit make for some paper-thin disguises. (Not that this means it doesn't fool the Decepticons).
* Both Astrotrain and Cyclonus are portrayed as positively HUGE in this story (at least in their vehicle modes). Although there is some precedent for Astrotrain to be very large, Cyclonus's portrayal is unusual, being big enough to house not only Galvatron, but a whole fleet of Decepticons within himself!
* Although none of the individual Constructicons are named, and the only illustration depicting one is too obstructed to positively identify which member is shown, all six members must be present in at least one path, seeing as they combine to form Devastator.
* It is unclear if you are meant to be an Autobot or a human in this story. In the rare instances where other Autobots address you directly, they certainly seem to treat you as though you were just another Autobot.
* Springer's rarely mentioned jumping abilities are put into action in one path. Transforming to helicopter mode never comes up as an option, maybe due to Springer carrying the cybertite sphere.
* Autobot Alert's book cover art is misleading in several ways:
** Though the cover art depicts the cybertite sphere as having a pink hue, it is consistently described as glowing green within the story.
** [[Pipes (G1)|Pipes]] is never mentioned to be present throughout the entire book, despite appearing in the far background of the cover illustration.
** The scene depicted on the cover never actually takes place in the story. It is a rough amalgamation of several different storypaths.
* Oddly, whichever path is chosen at the very beginning of the book, the neglected mission bears no impact on the story in any of the endings. Do the Decepticons simply get bored and stop bothering to take over the airwaves/steal the ancient Autobot formula?

==External links==
*[http://www.gamebooks.org/show_item.php?id=1150 Review on Demian's Gamebook Web Page]

[[Category:Generation 1 multipath adventures]]

Earthquake (book)

2024-11-23T22:31:28Z

Bigmanhelperhouseman: /* Synopsis */

{{Disambig3|earthquake}}
{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[Find Your Fate Junior]] #4
|prev=Attack of the Insecticons
|next=Desert Flight
|title="Earthquake"
|image=Earthquake fyf.jpg
|caption=I AM NOT A SHARK! I AM A MAN!
|publisher=[[Ballantine Books]]
|imprint=[[Find Your Fate Junior]]
|date=1986
|writer=[[Ann Matthews]]
|illustrator=[[William Schmidt]] (interior pencils and cover painting)
|pagecount=73
|ISBN=ISBN 9780345330710 ISBN 0-345-33071-4
}}
[[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] discovers a hidden [[Decepticon]] [[Destruction Beam#hidden fortress|base]], from which they are planning to destroy the nearby [[Center City]], a dry run at destroying all the world's capitals.

==Synopsis==
{{anchor|Page 1}}'''(PAGE_1)''' The Autobots lounge around their secret headquarters near Center City, Oregon, enjoying a day with no sign of Decepticon activity. [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus]] strikes up a conversation with the rest of the Autobots to remark on their good fortune. [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] reads a book, [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] is busy polishing himself, and [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] uses "special circuitry-building equipment" to work out. [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]], [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] and [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] join in on the conversation to discuss the opposing faction. {{anchor|Page 2}}'''(PAGE_2)''' Beachcomber waxes on about wanting a day to enjoy the great outdoors, so Optimus grants him a leave of absence. The Autobot dune buggy drive peacefully into the countryside, until the earth begins to shudder beneath his wheels. {{anchor|Page 3}}'''(PAGE_3)''' Frantically searching for the disturbance’s source, Beachcomber soon spots the Decepticon [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] practicing his seismic abilities. After a few more small tremors, Rumble appears pleased with himself and saunters off towards a cliff face. Following from a safe distance, Beachcomber witnesses the cliff opening up to allow Rumble into a secret Decepticon base. Beachcomber wants to report his ridings back to Optimus, but is afraid he might not be able to find his way back here once he leaves.

'''''Should Beachcomber hurry back to Autobot headquarters anyways?'' (>>[[#Page 5|PAGE_5]]>>)'''

'''''Should Beachcomber attempt to infiltrate the Decepticon fortress by himself?'' (>>[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]>>)'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber reports back to Autobot headquarters...'' {{anchor|Page 5}}(>>PAGE_5>>)''' after attempting to memorize every feature on the cliffside so as to recognize it later. Once Optimus has been informed on Beachcomber’s discovery, he sends him back, along with Powerglide and [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] to investigate the secret Decepticon base. {{anchor|Page 6}}'''(PAGE_6)''' Once they have found their way back to the location in question, the three Autobots puzzle over how to infiltrate the Decepticon fortress.

:'''''Should they attempt to enter through the same door Rumble disappeared through, and risk being easily detected by their foes?'' (>>[[#Page 10|PAGE_10]]>>)'''

:'''''Should they attempt to find another entrance with Beachcomber’s sensors, despite that it might waste precious time?'' (>>[[#Page 8|PAGE_8]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6|PAGE_6]]<<)''' '''''Powerglide, Beachcomber and Windcharger attempt to enter the Decepticon base through the cliffside… ''{{anchor|Page 10}}(>>PAGE_10>>)''' ...with Windcharger tempting his luck first. As he walks up to the cliffside, the concealed door open up for him automatically… Only to slam shut on him, badly damaging the Autobot. The doors open up again, and the Decepticons spill out of their fortress. Thinking fast, Beachcomber shouts to Powerglide that he hopes that Rumble will not start another quake. His attempt at reverse psychology works, as Rumble laughs at the Autobots before doing just that. Rumble’s quake causes the Decepticon fortress to crumble, burying the Decepticons in a cave-in, while Beachcomber and Powerglide dash out of the quake’s range. The two of them plan to return to the ruins once the dust has settles, so to retrieve Windcharger. [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] will be able to fix him up, and the Autobots won’t have to worry about the Decepticons for a while longer.

::'''THE END'''

[[File:EarthquakePowerglideBeahccomberWindcharger.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6|PAGE_6]]<<)''' '''''Powerglide, Beachcomber and Windcharger search for another way into the Decepticon fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 8}}(>>PAGE_8>>)''' soon finding a narrow passageway in the cliff hidden by bushes and scrub brush. {{anchor|Page 64}}'''(PAGE_64)''' At the end of the rocky passageway the Autobots discover a storage room. At the far end of it are two exits. One leads to another rocky passage just like the one the Autobots have just emerged from. The other is blocked by a door with a complicated lock. The lock proves to be a small deterrent, as Beachcomber manages to quickly disable it. Opening the door reveals a brightly lit corridor, which Powerglide insists on investigating. Windcharger, however, insists on going into the rocky passage instead. It looks like the team is splitting up.

::'''''Should Beachcomber accompany Windcharger into the rocky passage?'' (>>[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber accompany Powerglide into the brightly-lit corridor?'' (>>[[#Page 20|PAGE_20]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber set off on his own to explore another region of the fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 60|PAGE_60]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber accompanies Windcharger down the rocky passage...'' {{anchor|Page 11}}(>>PAGE_11>>)''' …soon finding their path blocked by a heavy stone doorway. The two Autobots hear faint Decepticon voices from beyond the door, but cannot tell whether they are coming from directly behind the door, or from farther within the fortress. Windcharger is eager to burst through the door and take the Decepticons by surprise. The hesitant Beachcomber would prefer to return to the storage room and seek another more secretive way into the fortress.

:::'''''Should Beachcomber return to the storage room?'' (>>[[#Page 13|PAGE_13]]>>)'''

:::'''''Should Beachcomber remain with Windcharger?'' (>>[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber leaves Windcharger to return to the storage room.'' {{anchor|Page 13}}(>>PAGE_13>>)''' But Beachcomber is scared of exploring the fortress by himself. Hoping to catch up with Powerglide, he heads back towards the brightly lit corridor. The two Autobots reunite, and commence to explore the fortress carefully. '''(>>[[#Page 20|PAGE_20]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]] OR [[#Page 13|PAGE_13]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber and Powerglide explore the corridor...'' {{anchor|Page 20}}(>>PAGE_20>>)''' pausing at each doorway to listen. Finding everything strangely silent, Beachcomber begins to question whether the element of surprise is truly on their side. But Decepticons voices become audible as the duo reaches the end of the corridor. Beachcomber and Powerglide pause to listen. {{anchor|Page 16}}'''(PAGE_16)''' They overhear [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] discussing his plan with [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]. The Decepticon leader plans to wipe humanity off the face of the Earth with the aid of the "[[Destruction Beam]]" and Rumble’s earthquake-inducing abilities; the beam will create a fault line in an area, which will allow Rumble to cause massive destruction within a disaster radius. Once humanity is eradicated, the entire planet with be transformed into a massive laboratory. Afterwards, the Decepticons will return to Cybertron to reclaim as their own. The two Autobots further learn that Center City, the testing ground for this plot, will be reached by the Destruction Beam in one hour, fifty-two minutes, and thirty-seven seconds. {{anchor|Page 17}}'''(PAGE_17)''' Shocked by this discovery, Powerglide and Beachcomber race back to the fortress’s secret entrance, finding Windcharger already there. All three transform and return to Autobot headquarters. Once Optimus is informed of Megatron’s plan, the Autobots decide to split up into two groups. One will be the lead group, formed of the more powerful Autobots, and the other a smaller secondary group. But which group should be sent at which location?

::::'''''Send the lead group be sent to the fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 68|PAGE_68]]>>)'''

::::'''''Should the lead group be sent to Center City?'' (>>[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots’ lead team is sent to the Decepticons’ fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 68}}(>>PAGE_68>>)''' Amongst them is Optimus, Cosmos, Beachcomber, Brawn and [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]. Beachcomber locates the front door to the Decepticons’ fortress, and Brawn prevents them from closing while the Autobots storm the base. Though the Decepticons attempt to counter-attack, the Autobots disable them one by one. Optimus manages to get a hold of Megatron, and forces the Decepticon leader to guide him towards the Decepticons’ lab at gun-point. Beachcomber and Inferno follow them, while the battle continues to rage on behind them. {{anchor|Page 30}}'''(PAGE_30)''' Once inside the lab, Megatron shows them a monitor displaying the Destruction beam’s path towards Central City. Though Megatron ceases to cooperate when Optimus orders him to stop the beam from reaching its target, Beachcomber spots a button that causes the laser to dispel. Optimus declares: "Central City is safe, and the Decepticons are going down in history as a bunch of losers!" before sending the Destruction Beam machine to "robot heaven." The Autobots leave the fortress with Megatron as their prisoner of war, and the remaining Decepticons permanently maimed. The Autobots are later forced to release Megatron, however, in exchange with the safe release of the Autobots that were defeated in Central City while Optimus led the raid on the Decepticon base. Though Optimus knows the Decepticons are bound to brew more trouble, for the moment being he is happy to relax and recharge.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots’ lead team is sent to Center City.'' {{anchor|Page 36}}(>>PAGE_36>>)''' But they must be careful not to surpass the speed limit by too much, lest they bring attention to themselves. Accordingly, Cosmos hides in Optimus Prime’s trailer as they head down the highway. But Cosmos is displeased with this turn of events, and complains that if he can’t even be out in the open while the Autobots travel down a deserted road, for fear of instilling panic in the humans, how will he manage to be of any use once they reach Central City. Optimus considers Cosmos argument, and pulls over to…

:::::'''''Send Cosmos back to the Decepticon fortress to help the secondary team?'' (>>[[#Page 31|PAGE_31]]>>)'''

:::::'''''Assert that Cosmos better stay with the main group?'' (>>[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeCosmosspies.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]<<)''' '''''Cosmos is sent to help out the secondary team at the Decepticon fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 31}}(>>PAGE_31>>)''' Using his communicator to ask [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] for directions, he soon happens upon the cliff concealing the Decepticon base. The base’s doors are wide open and the smaller Autobot team is nowhere to be seen, so Cosmos decides to head into the gaping doorway. He pauses before doing so, attempting to reach Smokescreen once again over the communicator to no avail. Cautiously stepping inside, Cosmos hears a door creak open… {{anchor|Page 28}}'''(PAGE_28)''' Hearing voices coming from beyond the creaking door, he ventures within and hides behind a large machine. He beholds [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and Soundwave plotting together. Starscream tells Soundwave of how Megatron has become careless as of late, even forgetting to change the coded lock on his personal chambers. Now Starscream knows how to get in, and exposits how it would be a simple matter for him and Soundwave to lie in wait in their leader’s quarters, ready to ambush when he returns. Soundwave agrees, noting how he could stun their leader with his [[Gamma ray]] and they could usurp Megatron’s leadership of the Decepticons. Having heard enough, Cosmos begins to sneak out of the room, only to bump into Megatron himself. But before Megatron has a chance to attack, Cosmos tells him that he has information which might interest him. Does Megatron...

::::::'''''Hear Cosmos out?'' (>>[[#Page 4|PAGE_4]]>>)'''

::::::'''''Disregard what the Autobot has to say?'' (>>[[#Page 39|PAGE_39]]>>)'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 28|PAGE_28]]<<)''' '''''Megatron pauses to listen to what Cosmos has to say.'' {{anchor|Page 4}}(>>PAGE_4>>)''' Cosmos divulges what he has just heard Starscream and Soundwave say, being sure to put extra drama where it suits him. Megatron is infuriated at these revelations, and strides into the generator room to deal with the traitors. Cosmos hears the entire fortress tremble as Megatron fires his [[Fusion cannon]], and quickly hides when more Decepticons rush by him towards Megatron. Soon, two groups rally in the generator room where Megatron stands, one loyal to Megatron, the other loyal to Soundwave and Starscream. As Cosmos takes off to avoid being caught in the middle of the Decepticon mutiny, he bumps into Sunstreaker, who informs Cosmos that the rest of them have found the Decepticons’ lab. {{anchor|Page 33}}'''(PAGE_33)''' Joining Inferno before the Destruction Beam machine, Cosmos tells the others of what is taking place between Decepticon ranks, and is eager to finish the Decepticons off. But Inferno advises against the lot of them staying, and soon they are all fleeing away from the fortress. Suddenly, the fortress is caught in an enormous explosion, obliterating it. Inferno tells the others that they not only succeeded in halting the Destruction Beam's progress towards Center City, but they also redirected it to return to its source. The humans never need fear the Decepticons ever again!

:::::::'''THE END'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 28|PAGE_28]]<<)''' '''''Megatron ignores Cosmos’s pleas...'' {{anchor|Page 39}}(>>PAGE_39>>)''' and informs him nothing would dissuade him from blasting the little Autobot. Pressing an alarm on the wall, Megatron calls to him the rest of the Decepticons. Cosmos’s communicator remains silent as well. All seems lost when Cosmos spots [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] and half of the secondary team behind him, running down the hallway towards the Decepticons. The other half of the team is rushing down the corridor’s opposite end, surrounding the Decepticons. Though the Autobots want to end the battle quickly to deal with the Destruction Beam, they are forced to stay and fight until the last Decepticon falls. Just then, an ear-shattering roar is emanates down the fortress’s corridors… {{anchor|Page 67}}'''(PAGE_67)''' Rushing outdoors, the Autobots witness a cloud of dust rising from Center City’s remains. Though the Autobots on location fought bravely, once the Destruction Beam reached its target, there was nothing that could stop Rumble from making the city collapse underground. The rest of the Autobots surely perished during their mission. Cosmos and company return within the Decepticon base to destroy the lab therein, but bemoan their pyrrhic victory. At least several powerful enemies have been disposed of, and Megatron no longer has a lab to aid in his attempts at conquest. But the war isn’t over, it’s just beginning.

:::::::'''THE END'''

::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]<<)''' '''''Optimus assures Cosmos that he should stay with the Autobots’ main team.'' {{anchor|Page 37}}(>>PAGE_37>>)''' The Autobots continue towards Center City, only taking a short detour to pick up [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]], to act as medium between themselves and the humans. Optimus informs Sparkplug about what is going on, and before the Autobots enter Center City, asks Sparkplug which course of action would be wiser to take:

::::::'''''Enter Center City as robots, risking spooking the humans into a panic?'' (>>[[#Page 34|PAGE_34]]>>)'''

::::::'''''Enter Center City as vehicles, limiting the Autobots’ combat effectiveness?'' (>>[[#Page 51|PAGE_51]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeAutobotspanickingtownfolk.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]<<)''' '''''Sparkplug advises the Autobots to enter Central City in their robot modes.'' {{anchor|Page 34}}(>>PAGE_34>>)''' Optimus and his troops enter Center City ignoring the humans’ reactions to their appearance, as they concentrate on spotting any Decepticons in the area. When they fail to see any of their enemies, Optimus decides to speak to the city’s mayor and implore him to evacuate the city. But before they reach City Hall, policemen begin to announce that Center City is under siege by giant robots and that the citizens need to find shelter. {{anchor|Page 63}}'''(PAGE_63)''' Although at first Optimus assumes that the Decepticons are the robots are the ones causing the panic, Cosmos soon figures that the robots "attacking" the city are themselves. The humans panic and run uselessly around in the streets, instead of finding shelter as they were advised. It would be impossible to find the mayor in all of this confusion now. {{anchor|Page 42}}'''(PAGE_42)''' In an attempt to appease the humans, the Autobots transform back into vehicle mode. But they’ve run out of time. The Destruction Beam hits nearby, prompting Rumble to come out of hiding and begin using his seismic abilities in the middle of the street. The resulting fissures swallow up people, cars, streets and buildings. Five Autobots are swallowed up by a gaping chasm that appears suddenly. Then [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] appears overhead, signalling that the Autobots failed to deal with the rest of the Decepticons at the fortress. The earthquakes continue, as the rest of the city, and the last of the Autobots fall into the abyss. After the destruction comes to a halt, Megatron comes forth to inspect his handiwork. With the Autobots out of commission, the Earth is about to become a very unpleasant place for humans.

:::::::'''THE END'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]<<)''' '''''Sparkplug advises the Autobots to enter Center City in their vehicle modes.'' {{anchor|Page 51}}(>>PAGE_51>>)''' Though Beachcomber doubts they will be able to accomplish much in their vehicle modes, Sparkplug claims otherwise. Being an old friend of the Mayor’s he will seek audience with him, and convince him to evacuate the city. As for the means of the evacuation, it is the Autobots that will provide it. Though they will need to make several trips, the Autobots will ferry the humans out of the city in their vehicle modes. {{anchor|Page 43}}'''(PAGE_43)''' Once inside City Hall, Sparkplug speaks urgently with Mayor Todd. He convinces the mayor that Center City is right on a fault line, and due for an earthquake at any moment. Soon, every radio station in town is transmitting the evacuation plan to Center City’s residents, and everyone is evacuated in an orderly fashion. Meanwhile, Cosmos scouts high above, on the look-out for approaching Decepticons. As Optimus unloads his last batch at a nearby campsite, Cosmos radios him, letting him know that the Decepticons are approaching. {{anchor|Page 44}}'''(PAGE_44)''' Soon, the Destruction Beams courses down, causing a fault in the city’s foundation. Knowing that this means that the secondary team failed in their objective, the Autobots drive into the city in the hopes of stopping Rumble from completing his mission. {{anchor|Page 72}}'''(PAGE_72)''' The first Decepticons they encounter are Rumble and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]. They are quickly picked off by Optimus before more Decepticons arrive. One by one, the Decepticons are downed by the Autobots as they arrive in Center City. As the Decepticons are caught unawares, the battle is won with ease. Once the earthquake is avoided, the Autobots set out for the Decepticons’ fortress, passing by the campground where they dropped off the city’s residents. The humans see the Autobots in their robot modes, but are unafraid, having seen the Autobots’ heroic deeds. They cheer the Autobots on as they head towards the fortress to end the Decepticons once and for all!

:::::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber remains with Windcharger.'' {{anchor|Page 24}}(>>PAGE_24>>)''' Though Windcharger is eager to bust down the door with his magnetic powers, Beachcomber points out a string of numbers written out on a lighted panel above the door:
::::16/21/19/8–18/5/4/—2/21/20/20/15/14
::::Beachcomber surmises that it is a code, and by cracking it they’ll be able to make it through the door. Windcharger admits he’s not great a cracking codes, however. Can [[you]] help them crack it?

::::'''''Yes.'' (>>[[#Page 18|PAGE_18]]>>)'''

::::'''''No.'' (>>[[#Page 65|PAGE_65]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots crack the code.'' {{anchor|Page 18}}(>>PAGE_18>>)''' With the puzzle solved, the Autobots open the door {{anchor|Page 25}}'''(PAGE_25)''' and step forth into an elaborate spy station. But the monitors within the room display other rooms within the Decepticons’ fortress. Windcharger reasons that Megatron uses this room to spy on his own troops. Before they investigate further, they hear footstep approaching and hide a bank of computer screens. {{anchor|Page 12}}'''(PAGE_12)''' From their hiding spot, they hear [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] announce that the "Destruction Beam" has just left the lab. Megatron is pleased at the news, and gloats that the Autobots will be unable to stop his plan. Megatron then enters the room alone, shutting the door behind him. Immediately, Windcharger and Beachcomber jump the Decepticon leader, the former disarming him with his magnetic powers. Beachcomber bluffs that the entire fortress is surrounded. He warns Megatron that the entire fortress will be destroyed with them inside unless Megatron orders his troops to surrender. Believing he has no choice, Megatron does so and agrees to show the Autobots where his lab containing the Destruction Beam machine is located. While Windcharger keeps watch over Megatron, Beachcomber quietly sends a message to Optimus for him to send the Autobots over. Center City still stands, but the Decepticons have fallen.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots are unable to solve the code.'' {{anchor|Page 65}}(>>PAGE_65>>)''' Windcharger impatiently attempts to down the door with his magnetic powers instead, but only manages to make a racket. The two of them flee, but are spotted by Megatron who peers through the door just as they exit the passage. The Decepticon leader retreats back into his spy room, and takes a shortcut to the storage room, soon appearing before the two startled Autobots in his weapon form. {{anchor|Page 66}}'''(PAGE_66)''' The nuclear-charged fusion cannon blasts Windcharger and Beachcomber, leaving little remains in his shot’s wake. Powerglide does not fare much better, as he is soon captured while wandering around the fortress, and reprogrammed to lead the Decepticons back to the Autobots’ headquarters. The Autobots are caught off-guard by the attack, and though they fight well, soon only Optimus Prime remains. Megatron informs his foe that he has no plans to destroy him. Merely… alter him, so that he will become his newest weapon and ally. With his help, Megatron plans to destroy all of Earth’s cities. But Optimus would rather die than join the Decepticons, and with a last effort, initiates the self-destruct sequence for the Autobots’ base. The large explosion annihilates Optimus and all the Decepticons, bringing a sudden end to their war.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber sets out to explore the fortress on his own...'' {{anchor|Page 60}}(>>PAGE_60>>)''' as he watches Powerglide charge recklessly down the lit corridor and Windcharger head back for the rocky passage. He looks around to see nothing but closed doors and more empty corridors. Opening a door, he spots [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] on the other side, and quickly fires at the Decepticon. But Dirge dodges his shot with ease, and stuns Beachcomber with a [[Concussion weapon|concussion missile]].Dirge then proceeds to dismember Beachcomber, and extract the last fifteen minutes of footage from the Autobot’s memory tape. Learning that Powerglide and Windcharger are also in the vicinity, Dirge radios Megatron, who in turn orders the Decepticons to find the other intruders. {{anchor|Page 38}}'''(PAGE_38)''' Powerglide and Windcharger are soon captured and brought before Megatron. After taunting them, Megatron order [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] to dispose of them in whatever gruesome manner he chooses. Then, taking Beachcomber’s communicator, he disguises his voice and sends a request for back-up to Autobot headquarters. Optimus responds quickly, only for him and his troops to be mowed down by the Decepticons. With the Autobots destroyed, nothing can stop the Decepticons from subjugating the Earth.

:::'''THE END'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber decides to infiltrate the Decepticons’ fortress by himself...'' {{anchor|Page 62}}(>>PAGE_62>>)''' and cautiously steps towards the cliffside. At first he is unsure whether or not the doors will open for him. But as soon as he is in position, the automated doors slide open. Within the fortress, Beachcomber hears a humming sound and spots a dim light in the otherwise dark room. Just as he is enters, he hears humans talking nearby. He wonders if there could possibly be humans working in league with the Decepticons? As he wonders whether or not he should investigate the human voices, the doors to the fortress begin to close. They might not open for him again if he leaves. What to do?

:'''''Investigate the human voices?'' (>>[[#Page 21|PAGE_21]]>>)'''

:'''''Proceed within the Decepticon fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 14|PAGE_14]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber decides to investigate the human voices...'' {{anchor|Page 21}}(>>PAGE_21>>)''' figuring that if the doors opened for him once, they’ll do so again. Transforming into dune buggy mode, he drives towards the human voices, and encounters [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster]] and [[Jesse (G1)|Jessie]]! Buster recognizes Beachcomber despite the Autobot being in vehicle mode, and exclaims that he’s happy to see him. Jessie explains that they were exploring when they discovered the Decepticons’ fortress. Buster elaborates that they discovered a secret passage that lead within, and overheard Megatron explaining to his troops how he plans to take over the world. {{anchor|Page 22}}'''(PAGE_22)''' The Decepticons’ plan involves [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] firing the "Destruction Beam" from a lab hidden in the cliff. Afterwards, the Decepticons will employ Rumble’s seismic abilities to enlarge to fissure that the beam will create, causing a massive earthquake. Jessie further explains the beam will be tested on Center City in about an hour and a half. With this information, Beachcomber tells the two humans to hop in so he can drive them back to Autobot headquarters. But soon, Ramjet in vehicle mode appears overhead and starts attacking Beachcomber. Ramjet then transforms and quickly scoops up Jessie, flying off with her as a hostage. Beachcomber wants to proceed to Autobot headquarters to get help, but Buster pleads for him to go after Ramjet and rescue Jessie.

::'''''Should Beachcomber return to the Decepticon fortress and attempt to rescue Jessie?'' (>>[[#Page 26|PAGE_26]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber continue back to the Autobots’ base and ask for help?'' (>>[[#Page 32|PAGE_32]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''Buster convinces Beachcomber to go after Jessie.'' {{anchor|Page 26}}(>>PAGE_26>>)''' Beachcomber reasons that they wouldn’t be able to reach Autobot headquarters and return in an hour-and-a-half anyways. But he explains to Buster that he can’t take the fortress’s main entrance, as the Decepticons will now be expecting them. Buster reassures Beachcomber that he found the secret entrance to the Decepticons’ base once, and he’ll do so again. Once before the secret entrance, Beachcomber transforms. {{anchor|Page 27}}'''(PAGE_27)''' Venturing within, the two of them soon hear Decepticon voices, along with Jessie’s. Buster insists they follow the voices, but Beachcomber would rather hide.

:::'''''Follow the voices?'' (>>[[#Page 46|PAGE_46]]>>)'''

:::'''''Find a hiding place?'' (>>[[#Page 49|PAGE_49]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeJessieKidnapped.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 27|PAGE_27]]<<)''' '''''At Buster’s insistance, Beachcomber agrees to follow the Decepticon voices.'' {{anchor|Page 46}}(>>PAGE_46>>)''' They soon spot Soundwave and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] locking Jessie away in a dark cell. Once the Decepticons leave, Buster and Beachcomber come out of hiding. {{anchor|Page 70}}'''(PAGE_70)''' Beachcomber and Buster reassure Jessie that they will get her out, and use a miniature laser from Beachcomber’s armament to cut open a hole in the solid steel door to Jessie’s cell. Once freed, Jessie is pleased to announce she has learned that the controls for the Destruction Beam are nearby. She is keen on finding them and save Center City. But despite their best efforts, the three of them cannot find the lab in the maze-like corridors. Pulling the humans aside, Beachcomber explains that they’re better off getting help than running around fruitlessly. {{anchor|Page 48}}'''(PAGE_48)''' Soon they are back at Autobot headquarters, where Mirage devises a plan. Beachcomber and Mirage return to the fortress, and use the secret entrance to sneak inside once more. Once there, they use Mirage’s holographic abilities to trick a passing Buzzsaw into thinking that the fortress is overrun with Autobots. After pushing an alarm, Buzzsaw rushes to the lab to guard it, but is followed by the two Autobots. Now having reached their target, the Autobots overpower Buzzsaw and destroy the lab, along with the Destruction Beam machine. The deed accomplish, the two Autobots rush outside to safety while the Decepticons scramble to defend themselves an enemy army that isn’t there.

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 27|PAGE_27]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber convinces Buster that they should hide...'' {{anchor|Page 49}}(>>PAGE_49>>)''' …and the voices soon fade into the distance. But once they are alone, both Beachcomber and Buster come to realize that they have no plan to get themselves out of this situation. Nonetheless, Beachcomber tells Buster that if they work together, they will be able to figure something out. {{anchor|Page 56}}'''(PAGE_56)''' Creeping out of their hiding place, Buster opens a nearby door slowly, only to be met by Ramjet once again. Having the duo cornered, Ramjet advances menacingly onto them. But Beachcomber tricks the dim-witted Decepticon into looking away by telling Buster other Autobots are coming down the corridor now. Once Ramjet is distracted, Beachcomber shoves his way past the Decepticon, and races off with Buster. {{anchor|Page 40}}'''(PAGE_40)''' But neither Buster or Beachcomber can find their way in the Decepticons’ maze-like fortress, and soon Megatron, Dirge, Starscream and Ramjet are all bearing down upon them. Taking the Autobot and the human prisoners, Megatron escorts the pair at gun-point to his laboratory. {{anchor|Page 7}}'''(PAGE_7)''' Megatron forces the two of them to watch a monitor displaying the beam’s progress as it hits Center City, signalling its doom. Megatron gloats of his victory before he pulls his trigger, firing upon his helpless prisoners.

::::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber drives back to Autobot base, despite Buster’s protests.'' {{anchor|Page 32}}(>>PAGE_32>>)''' Beachcomber explains that the Decepticons are unlikely to harm Jessie, as she is far more useful to them alive than dead, though Buster is still sour towards Beachcomber for his decision. Once at their headquarters, Beachcomber explains what has taken place to the Autobots, provoking a particularly strong emotional response from Brawn. Optimus leads over two-dozen Autobots back to the hills where the Decepticons’ secret fortress is located. {{anchor|Page 45}}'''(PAGE_45)''' Before reaching their destination, Optimus explains two possible course of action; either storm the front entrance by force, or sneak into the base using the secret entrance Buster and Jessie found. [Choose a number between one and ten.]

:::'''''If you chose an even number, go to:'' (>>[[#Page 57|PAGE_57]]>>)'''

:::'''''If you chose an odd number, go to:'' (>>[[#Page 54|PAGE_54]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 45|PAGE_45]]<<)''' '''''[You chose an even number]'' {{anchor|Page 57}}(>>PAGE_57>>)''' The Autobots choose to storm the fortress through the front door. But just as Beachcomber steps before the cliffside and the doors slide open, he hesitates. Turning back, he whines to Optimus Prime that they shouldn’t fight, and that violence only begets more violence. Optimus groans at Beachcomber’s inopportune timing, but before he can issue another order, Megatron’s voice booms through the doorway. He claims that the Autobots are within the sights of an enormous Decepticon arsenal! {{anchor|Page 58}}'''(PAGE_58)''' But the Autobots have no intention of surrendering, and fight valiantly. Unfortunately, the Decepticons are on familiar turf, and soon either slay or take prisoner all of the Autobots. Basking in his victory, Megatron invites the rest of the Decepticons to come observe the destruction of Center City. He then explains to his troops that this is only the beginning. Soon, every city on Earth will fall the Destruction Beam!

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 45|PAGE_45]]<<)''' '''''[You chose an odd number]'' {{anchor|Page 54}}(>>PAGE_54>>)''' The Autobots choose a stealthier approach, and let Buster lead them to the secret entrance. Once inside, Optimus instructs to attack any Decepticons they see, save Megatron, who he wants captured alive. The Autobots break up into small groups and start storming the entire fortress. One of these groups, composed of Sunstreaker, Beachcomber, Brawn, Buster and lead by Optimus himself soon find themselves in a lighted hallway lined with locked doors on either side. {{anchor|Page 71}}'''(PAGE_71)''' Before they proceed, Optimus explains that they need to focus their efforts on finding the Decepticons’ lab first. They are then accosted by Buzzsaw, [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] and Ramjet. After a brief scuffle, the Decepticons are incapacitated, but so is Sunstreaker. Optimus sadly reasons that they need to leave him behind for now, and the squadron continues to search for the lab. They come to a branch in the hallway, and must choose to go either left or right. [You must flip a coin]

::::'''If the coin comes up heads, the Autobots take the right passageway.'' (>>[[#Page 55|PAGE_55]]>>)'''

::::'''If the coin comes up tails, the Autobots take the left passageway.'' (>>[[#Page 52|PAGE_52]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 71|PAGE_71]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots take the right passageway...'' {{anchor|Page 55}}(>>PAGE_55>>)''' and begin heading down a corridor that seems to lead nowhere. Though there are no doors for a long stretch of the corridor, the Autobots begin to hear a faint voice as they proceed down the hallway. It’s Jessie! Finally finding themselves before a large door, Optimus breaks it down freeing the human from Decepticon captivity. Jessie tumbles into Buster’s arms, and informs the Autobots that she knows where the lab is! She leads the squad to a small red door, and tells them the controls to the Destruction Beam are within. But when the Autobots bust down the door, they find themselves surrounded by Decepticons! Megatron congratulate on her work! {{anchor|Page 50}}'''(PAGE_50)''' Jessie has been brainwashed by the Decepticons, and lead them into a trap, all according to Megatron’s plan! Taking away the Autobots’ communicators, Megatron sends Jessie out again to lure more Autobots into his trap. All the while, Optimus observes through a monitor the Destruction Beam coming into contact with Center City. Megatron takes note of this, and proudly announces that Rumble will soon be on location to finish the city in an earthquake. Megatron then orders Starscream to lock-up the Autobots. At least they aren’t being deactivated. Maybe Optimus will be able to formulate a plan? If not, this is truly…

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 71|PAGE_71]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots take the left passageway...'' {{anchor|Page 52}}(>>PAGE_52>>)''' and soon come upon a huge door marked "LAB." A precocious Beachcomber uses his sensors to detect what awaits them behind the door. He discovers that beyond the doorway, there is nothing. A drop of at least 100 feet. A trap. Buster then spots another door hidden in the shadows, which Optimus surmises is probably the true laboratory. Calling for six more Autobots as back up first, then blasts open the hidden door. As Optimus had guessed, this is the real lab! Brawn quickly dispatches the three Decepticons within. Then, Megatron strides in, only to encounter the wrong end of Optimus Prime’s laser rifle. Optimus instructs Megatron not to move, lest the Decepticon leader wishes to be blown to bits. {{anchor|Page 59}}'''(PAGE_59)''' Optimus demands to know how to halt the Destruction Beam’s progress. Megatron points him to a red button, but Optimus catches Megatron smiling just as he is about to push it. Optimus guesses that the button would most likely activate a self-destruct sequence, and demands once more how to stop the Destruction Beam. Megatron in turn screams that he will never give Optimus that information. But Megatron betrays his intentions once more, as Optimus notices the Decepticon is staring towards a lever across the room. Optimus instructs to pull the lever, and the beam is finally disarmed. Hours later, the Decepticons have all been defeated and deactivated, and Jessie has been rescued. The Autobots later celebrate by guzzling a few quarts of fine-grade [[oil]]. Buster and Jessie enjoy super-fudge ice cream sundaes instead.

:::::'''THE END'''

[[File:EarthquakeBeachcomberdisassembled.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber proceeds within the Decepticon fortress...'' {{anchor|Page 14}}(>>PAGE_14>>)''' and makes it within just as the doors close behind him. But as he rushes into the fortress, he finds Buzzsaw waiting for him! In an instant, Beachcomber is torn to pieces by the Decepticon! Then [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] emerges from the shadows, and further dismantles the Autobot. He soon finds Beachcomber’s memory circuits, and then carries what is left of the Autobot to Megatron. After extracting all the useful information they can find from Beachcomber’s mind, the Decepticons hatch a new plan… {{anchor|Page 19}}'''(PAGE_19)''' Megatron calls for [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] and [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] and instructs them to rebuild Beachcomber, with one modification. He hands the Constructicon two nearly identical chips; one being the Autobot’s original mind, the other a "Destructicon" chip. Megatron explains that the alternate chip will render Beachcomber the perfect undercover agent. However, when the time comes to reinsert Beachcomber’s memory chip, the bungling Constructicons mistakenly put the original one back in! Later, Beachcomber returns to Autobot headquarters, and informs Optimus of all that has transpired. Beachcomber also tells Optimus of all the plans that Megatron shared with him! With Beachcomber as the perfect reverse-double-agent, the Autobots are sure to defeat the Decepticons quickly!

::'''THE END'''
{{-}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters|nonumbering=true
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]]
* [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]]
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]]
* [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]]
* [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]]
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]
* [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]
* [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]]
* [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]]

|c2=
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]]
* [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]]
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]]
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]]
* [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]

|c3=
* [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]]
* [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster]]
* [[Jesse (G1)|Jessie]]
* [[Mayor Todd]]
}}

==Notes==
* Ann Matthews is a pseudonym of Ann M. Martin, who is known for creating ''{{w|The Baby-Sitters Club}}'' series.
* One of the vanishingly few appearances of Jesse (here spelled "Jessie") outside of Marvel Comics.
* Beachcomber is armed with a gun that shoots bullets. It's not especially effective, at least against the [[conehead]]s.
**Though they're never depicted as coneheads here, thanks to being toy/box-art based.
* Beachcomber's brain functions involve "memory tape". That's apparently standard for this micro-continuity-nexus, since Dirge is able to replay it (exactly how isn't explained; Soundwave and the cassettes aren't around) to gather intel after disassembling him. Dirge specifically replays "the last 15 minutes", implying he considers that the equivalent of Transformer short-term memory. This also implies that a Transformer's brain is much larger here than in most major continuities.
* Ratchet and Laserbeak are mentioned by other characters, but don't appear in a story path proper.
* This book was available individually, or as part of a six-book box set with the other five "pre-Movie era" books in the series.
===Errors===
* On page 62, there is a typo; "Quick" is mispelt as "Ouick."

==External links==
*[http://www.gamebooks.org/show_item.php?id=1147 Earthquake on Demian's Gamebook Web Page]

*[https://toyhax.com/FYF/ Screenshot of Ann M. Martin confirming that she wrote this issue]
[[Category:Generation 1 multipath adventures]]

Earthquake (book)

2024-11-23T22:26:16Z

Bigmanhelperhouseman: /* Synopsis */

{{Disambig3|earthquake}}
{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[Find Your Fate Junior]] #4
|prev=Attack of the Insecticons
|next=Desert Flight
|title="Earthquake"
|image=Earthquake fyf.jpg
|caption=I AM NOT A SHARK! I AM A MAN!
|publisher=[[Ballantine Books]]
|imprint=[[Find Your Fate Junior]]
|date=1986
|writer=[[Ann Matthews]]
|illustrator=[[William Schmidt]] (interior pencils and cover painting)
|pagecount=73
|ISBN=ISBN 9780345330710 ISBN 0-345-33071-4
}}
[[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] discovers a hidden [[Decepticon]] [[Destruction Beam#hidden fortress|base]], from which they are planning to destroy the nearby [[Center City]], a dry run at destroying all the world's capitals.

==Synopsis==
{{anchor|Page 1}}'''(PAGE_1)''' The Autobots lounge around their secret headquarters near Center City, Oregon, enjoying a day with no sign of Decepticon activity. [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus]] strikes up a conversation with the rest of the Autobots to remark on their good fortune. [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] reads a book, [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] is busy polishing himself, and [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] uses "special circuitry-building equipment" to work out. [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]], [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] and [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] join in on the conversation to discuss the opposing faction. {{anchor|Page 2}}'''(PAGE_2)''' Beachcomber waxes on about wanting a day to enjoy the great outdoors, so Optimus grants him a leave of absence. The Autobot dune buggy drive peacefully into the countryside, until the earth begins to shudder beneath his wheels. {{anchor|Page 3}}'''(PAGE_3)''' Frantically searching for the disturbance’s source, Beachcomber soon spots the Decepticon [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] practicing his seismic abilities. After a few more small tremors, Rumble appears pleased with himself and saunters off towards a cliff face. Following from a safe distance, Beachcomber witnesses the cliff opening up to allow Rumble into a secret Decepticon base. Beachcomber wants to report his ridings back to Optimus, but is afraid he might not be able to find his way back here once he leaves.

'''''Should Beachcomber hurry back to Autobot headquarters anyways?'' (>>[[#Page 5|PAGE_5]]>>)'''

'''''Should Beachcomber attempt to infiltrate the Decepticon fortress by himself?'' (>>[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]>>)'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber reports back to Autobot headquarters...'' {{anchor|Page 5}}(>>PAGE_5>>)''' after attempting to memorize every feature on the cliffside so as to recognize it later. Once Optimus has been informed on Beachcomber’s discovery, he sends him back, along with Powerglide and [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] to investigate the secret Decepticon base. {{anchor|Page 6}}'''(PAGE_6)''' Once they have found their way back to the location in question, the three Autobots puzzle over how to infiltrate the Decepticon fortress.

:'''''Should they attempt to enter through the same door Rumble disappeared through, and risk being easily detected by their foes?'' (>>[[#Page 10|PAGE_10]]>>)'''

:'''''Should they attempt to find another entrance with Beachcomber’s sensors, despite that it might waste precious time?'' (>>[[#Page 8|PAGE_8]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6|PAGE_6]]<<)''' '''''Powerglide, Beachcomber and Windcharger attempt to enter the Decepticon base through the cliffside… ''{{anchor|Page 10}}(>>PAGE_10>>)''' ...with Windcharger tempting his luck first. As he walks up to the cliffside, the concealed door open up for him automatically… Only to slam shut on him, badly damaging the Autobot. The doors open up again, and the Decepticons spill out of their fortress. Thinking fast, Beachcomber shouts to Powerglide that he hopes that Rumble will not start another quake. His attempt at reverse psychology works, as Rumble laughs at the Autobots before doing just that. Rumble’s quake causes the Decepticon fortress to crumble, burying the Decepticons in a cave-in, while Beachcomber and Powerglide dash out of the quake’s range. The two of them plan to return to the ruins once the dust has settles, so to retrieve Windcharger. [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] will be able to fix him up, and the Autobots won’t have to worry about the Decepticons for a while longer.

::'''THE END'''

[[File:EarthquakePowerglideBeahccomberWindcharger.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6|PAGE_6]]<<)''' '''''Powerglide, Beachcomber and Windcharger search for another way into the Decepticon fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 8}}(>>PAGE_8>>)''' soon finding a narrow passageway in the cliff hidden by bushes and scrub brush. {{anchor|Page 64}}'''(PAGE_64)''' At the end of the rocky passageway the Autobots discover a storage room. At the far end of it are two exits. One leads to another rocky passage just like the one the Autobots have just emerged from. The other is blocked by a door with a complicated lock. The lock proves to be a small deterrent, as Beachcomber manages to quickly disable it. Opening the door reveals a brightly lit corridor, which Powerglide insists on investigating. Windcharger, however, insists on going into the rocky passage instead. It looks like the team is splitting up.

::'''''Should Beachcomber accompany Windcharger into the rocky passage?'' (>>[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber accompany Powerglide into the brightly-lit corridor?'' (>>[[#Page 20|PAGE_20]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber set off on his own to explore another region of the fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 60|PAGE_60]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber accompanies Windcharger down the rocky passage...'' {{anchor|Page 11}}(>>PAGE_11>>)''' …soon finding their path blocked by a heavy stone doorway. The two Autobots hear faint Decepticon voices from beyond the door, but cannot tell whether they are coming from directly behind the door, or from farther within the fortress. Windcharger is eager to burst through the door and take the Decepticons by surprise. The hesitant Beachcomber would prefer to return to the storage room and seek another more secretive way into the fortress.

:::'''''Should Beachcomber return to the storage room?'' (>>[[#Page 13|PAGE_13]]>>)'''

:::'''''Should Beachcomber remain with Windcharger?'' (>>[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber leaves Windcharger to return to the storage room.'' {{anchor|Page 13}}(>>PAGE_13>>)''' But Beachcomber is scared of exploring the fortress by himself. Hoping to catch up with Powerglide, he heads back towards the brightly lit corridor. The two Autobots reunite, and commence to explore the fortress carefully. '''(>>[[#Page 20|PAGE_20]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]] OR [[#Page 13|PAGE_13]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber and Powerglide explore the corridor...'' {{anchor|Page 20}}(>>PAGE_20>>)''' pausing at each doorway to listen. Finding everything strangely silent, Beachcomber begins to question whether the element of surprise is truly on their side. But Decepticons voices become audible as they duo reach the end of the corridor. Beachcomber and Powerglide pause to listen. {{anchor|Page 16}}'''(PAGE_16)''' They overhear [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] discussing his plan with [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]. The Decepticon leader plans to wipe humanity off the face of the Earth with the aid of the "[[Destruction Beam]]" and Rumble’s earthquake-inducing abilities; the beam will create a fault line in an area, which will allow Rumble to cause massive destruction within a disaster radius. Once humanity is eradicated, the entire planet with be transformed into a massive laboratory. Afterwards, the Decepticons will return to Cybertron to reclaim as their own. The two Autobots further learn that Center City, the testing ground for this plot, will be reached by the Destruction Beam in one hour, fifty-two minutes, and thirty-seven seconds. {{anchor|Page 17}}'''(PAGE_17)''' Shocked by this discovery, Powerglide and Beachcomber race back to the fortress’s secret entrance, finding Windcharger already there. All three transform and return to Autobot headquarters. Once Optimus is informed of Megatron’s plan, the Autobots decide to split up into two groups. One will be the lead group, formed of the more powerful Autobots, and the other a smaller secondary group. But which group should be sent at which location?

::::'''''Send the lead group be sent to the fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 68|PAGE_68]]>>)'''

::::'''''Should the lead group be sent to Center City?'' (>>[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots’ lead team is sent to the Decepticons’ fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 68}}(>>PAGE_68>>)''' Amongst them is Optimus, Cosmos, Beachcomber, Brawn and [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]. Beachcomber locates the front door to the Decepticons’ fortress, and Brawn prevents them from closing while the Autobots storm the base. Though the Decepticons attempt to counter-attack, the Autobots disable them one by one. Optimus manages to get a hold of Megatron, and forces the Decepticon leader to guide him towards the Decepticons’ lab at gun-point. Beachcomber and Inferno follow them, while the battle continues to rage on behind them. {{anchor|Page 30}}'''(PAGE_30)''' Once inside the lab, Megatron shows them a monitor displaying the Destruction beam’s path towards Central City. Though Megatron ceases to cooperate when Optimus orders him to stop the beam from reaching its target, Beachcomber spots a button that causes the laser to dispel. Optimus declares: "Central City is safe, and the Decepticons are going down in history as a bunch of losers!" before sending the Destruction Beam machine to "robot heaven." The Autobots leave the fortress with Megatron as their prisoner of war, and the remaining Decepticons permanently maimed. The Autobots are later forced to release Megatron, however, in exchange with the safe release of the Autobots that were defeated in Central City while Optimus led the raid on the Decepticon base. Though Optimus knows the Decepticons are bound to brew more trouble, for the moment being he is happy to relax and recharge.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots’ lead team is sent to Center City.'' {{anchor|Page 36}}(>>PAGE_36>>)''' But they must be careful not to surpass the speed limit by too much, lest they bring attention to themselves. Accordingly, Cosmos hides in Optimus Prime’s trailer as they head down the highway. But Cosmos is displeased with this turn of events, and complains that if he can’t even be out in the open while the Autobots travel down a deserted road, for fear of instilling panic in the humans, how will he manage to be of any use once they reach Central City. Optimus considers Cosmos argument, and pulls over to…

:::::'''''Send Cosmos back to the Decepticon fortress to help the secondary team?'' (>>[[#Page 31|PAGE_31]]>>)'''

:::::'''''Assert that Cosmos better stay with the main group?'' (>>[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeCosmosspies.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]<<)''' '''''Cosmos is sent to help out the secondary team at the Decepticon fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 31}}(>>PAGE_31>>)''' Using his communicator to ask [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] for directions, he soon happens upon the cliff concealing the Decepticon base. The base’s doors are wide open and the smaller Autobot team is nowhere to be seen, so Cosmos decides to head into the gaping doorway. He pauses before doing so, attempting to reach Smokescreen once again over the communicator to no avail. Cautiously stepping inside, Cosmos hears a door creak open… {{anchor|Page 28}}'''(PAGE_28)''' Hearing voices coming from beyond the creaking door, he ventures within and hides behind a large machine. He beholds [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and Soundwave plotting together. Starscream tells Soundwave of how Megatron has become careless as of late, even forgetting to change the coded lock on his personal chambers. Now Starscream knows how to get in, and exposits how it would be a simple matter for him and Soundwave to lie in wait in their leader’s quarters, ready to ambush when he returns. Soundwave agrees, noting how he could stun their leader with his [[Gamma ray]] and they could usurp Megatron’s leadership of the Decepticons. Having heard enough, Cosmos begins to sneak out of the room, only to bump into Megatron himself. But before Megatron has a chance to attack, Cosmos tells him that he has information which might interest him. Does Megatron...

::::::'''''Hear Cosmos out?'' (>>[[#Page 4|PAGE_4]]>>)'''

::::::'''''Disregard what the Autobot has to say?'' (>>[[#Page 39|PAGE_39]]>>)'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 28|PAGE_28]]<<)''' '''''Megatron pauses to listen to what Cosmos has to say.'' {{anchor|Page 4}}(>>PAGE_4>>)''' Cosmos divulges what he has just heard Starscream and Soundwave say, being sure to put extra drama where it suits him. Megatron is infuriated at these revelations, and strides into the generator room to deal with the traitors. Cosmos hears the entire fortress tremble as Megatron fires his [[Fusion cannon]], and quickly hides when more Decepticons rush by him towards Megatron. Soon, two groups rally in the generator room where Megatron stands, one loyal to Megatron, the other loyal to Soundwave and Starscream. As Cosmos takes off to avoid being caught in the middle of the Decepticon mutiny, he bumps into Sunstreaker, who informs Cosmos that the rest of them have found the Decepticons’ lab. {{anchor|Page 33}}'''(PAGE_33)''' Joining Inferno before the Destruction Beam machine, Cosmos tells the others of what is taking place between Decepticon ranks, and is eager to finish the Decepticons off. But Inferno advises against the lot of them staying, and soon they are all fleeing away from the fortress. Suddenly, the fortress is caught in an enormous explosion, obliterating it. Inferno tells the others that they not only succeeded in halting the Destruction Beam's progress towards Center City, but they also redirected it to return to its source. The humans never need fear the Decepticons ever again!

:::::::'''THE END'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 28|PAGE_28]]<<)''' '''''Megatron ignores Cosmos’s pleas...'' {{anchor|Page 39}}(>>PAGE_39>>)''' and informs him nothing would dissuade him from blasting the little Autobot. Pressing an alarm on the wall, Megatron calls to him the rest of the Decepticons. Cosmos’s communicator remains silent as well. All seems lost when Cosmos spots [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] and half of the secondary team behind him, running down the hallway towards the Decepticons. The other half of the team is rushing down the corridor’s opposite end, surrounding the Decepticons. Though the Autobots want to end the battle quickly to deal with the Destruction Beam, they are forced to stay and fight until the last Decepticon falls. Just then, an ear-shattering roar is emanates down the fortress’s corridors… {{anchor|Page 67}}'''(PAGE_67)''' Rushing outdoors, the Autobots witness a cloud of dust rising from Center City’s remains. Though the Autobots on location fought bravely, once the Destruction Beam reached its target, there was nothing that could stop Rumble from making the city collapse underground. The rest of the Autobots surely perished during their mission. Cosmos and company return within the Decepticon base to destroy the lab therein, but bemoan their pyrrhic victory. At least several powerful enemies have been disposed of, and Megatron no longer has a lab to aid in his attempts at conquest. But the war isn’t over, it’s just beginning.

:::::::'''THE END'''

::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]<<)''' '''''Optimus assures Cosmos that he should stay with the Autobots’ main team.'' {{anchor|Page 37}}(>>PAGE_37>>)''' The Autobots continue towards Center City, only taking a short detour to pick up [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]], to act as medium between themselves and the humans. Optimus informs Sparkplug about what is going on, and before the Autobots enter Center City, asks Sparkplug which course of action would be wiser to take:

::::::'''''Enter Center City as robots, risking spooking the humans into a panic?'' (>>[[#Page 34|PAGE_34]]>>)'''

::::::'''''Enter Center City as vehicles, limiting the Autobots’ combat effectiveness?'' (>>[[#Page 51|PAGE_51]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeAutobotspanickingtownfolk.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]<<)''' '''''Sparkplug advises the Autobots to enter Central City in their robot modes.'' {{anchor|Page 34}}(>>PAGE_34>>)''' Optimus and his troops enter Center City ignoring the humans’ reactions to their appearance, as they concentrate on spotting any Decepticons in the area. When they fail to see any of their enemies, Optimus decides to speak to the city’s mayor and implore him to evacuate the city. But before they reach City Hall, policemen begin to announce that Center City is under siege by giant robots and that the citizens need to find shelter. {{anchor|Page 63}}'''(PAGE_63)''' Although at first Optimus assumes that the Decepticons are the robots are the ones causing the panic, Cosmos soon figures that the robots "attacking" the city are themselves. The humans panic and run uselessly around in the streets, instead of finding shelter as they were advised. It would be impossible to find the mayor in all of this confusion now. {{anchor|Page 42}}'''(PAGE_42)''' In an attempt to appease the humans, the Autobots transform back into vehicle mode. But they’ve run out of time. The Destruction Beam hits nearby, prompting Rumble to come out of hiding and begin using his seismic abilities in the middle of the street. The resulting fissures swallow up people, cars, streets and buildings. Five Autobots are swallowed up by a gaping chasm that appears suddenly. Then [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] appears overhead, signalling that the Autobots failed to deal with the rest of the Decepticons at the fortress. The earthquakes continue, as the rest of the city, and the last of the Autobots fall into the abyss. After the destruction comes to a halt, Megatron comes forth to inspect his handiwork. With the Autobots out of commission, the Earth is about to become a very unpleasant place for humans.

:::::::'''THE END'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]<<)''' '''''Sparkplug advises the Autobots to enter Center City in their vehicle modes.'' {{anchor|Page 51}}(>>PAGE_51>>)''' Though Beachcomber doubts they will be able to accomplish much in their vehicle modes, Sparkplug claims otherwise. Being an old friend of the Mayor’s he will seek audience with him, and convince him to evacuate the city. As for the means of the evacuation, it is the Autobots that will provide it. Though they will need to make several trips, the Autobots will ferry the humans out of the city in their vehicle modes. {{anchor|Page 43}}'''(PAGE_43)''' Once inside City Hall, Sparkplug speaks urgently with Mayor Todd. He convinces the mayor that Center City is right on a fault line, and due for an earthquake at any moment. Soon, every radio station in town is transmitting the evacuation plan to Center City’s residents, and everyone is evacuated in an orderly fashion. Meanwhile, Cosmos scouts high above, on the look-out for approaching Decepticons. As Optimus unloads his last batch at a nearby campsite, Cosmos radios him, letting him know that the Decepticons are approaching. {{anchor|Page 44}}'''(PAGE_44)''' Soon, the Destruction Beams courses down, causing a fault in the city’s foundation. Knowing that this means that the secondary team failed in their objective, the Autobots drive into the city in the hopes of stopping Rumble from completing his mission. {{anchor|Page 72}}'''(PAGE_72)''' The first Decepticons they encounter are Rumble and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]. They are quickly picked off by Optimus before more Decepticons arrive. One by one, the Decepticons are downed by the Autobots as they arrive in Center City. As the Decepticons are caught unawares, the battle is won with ease. Once the earthquake is avoided, the Autobots set out for the Decepticons’ fortress, passing by the campground where they dropped off the city’s residents. The humans see the Autobots in their robot modes, but are unafraid, having seen the Autobots’ heroic deeds. They cheer the Autobots on as they head towards the fortress to end the Decepticons once and for all!

:::::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber remains with Windcharger.'' {{anchor|Page 24}}(>>PAGE_24>>)''' Though Windcharger is eager to bust down the door with his magnetic powers, Beachcomber points out a string of numbers written out on a lighted panel above the door:
::::16/21/19/8–18/5/4/—2/21/20/20/15/14
::::Beachcomber surmises that it is a code, and by cracking it they’ll be able to make it through the door. Windcharger admits he’s not great a cracking codes, however. Can [[you]] help them crack it?

::::'''''Yes.'' (>>[[#Page 18|PAGE_18]]>>)'''

::::'''''No.'' (>>[[#Page 65|PAGE_65]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots crack the code.'' {{anchor|Page 18}}(>>PAGE_18>>)''' With the puzzle solved, the Autobots open the door {{anchor|Page 25}}'''(PAGE_25)''' and step forth into an elaborate spy station. But the monitors within the room display other rooms within the Decepticons’ fortress. Windcharger reasons that Megatron uses this room to spy on his own troops. Before they investigate further, they hear footstep approaching and hide a bank of computer screens. {{anchor|Page 12}}'''(PAGE_12)''' From their hiding spot, they hear [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] announce that the "Destruction Beam" has just left the lab. Megatron is pleased at the news, and gloats that the Autobots will be unable to stop his plan. Megatron then enters the room alone, shutting the door behind him. Immediately, Windcharger and Beachcomber jump the Decepticon leader, the former disarming him with his magnetic powers. Beachcomber bluffs that the entire fortress is surrounded. He warns Megatron that the entire fortress will be destroyed with them inside unless Megatron orders his troops to surrender. Believing he has no choice, Megatron does so and agrees to show the Autobots where his lab containing the Destruction Beam machine is located. While Windcharger keeps watch over Megatron, Beachcomber quietly sends a message to Optimus for him to send the Autobots over. Center City still stands, but the Decepticons have fallen.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots are unable to solve the code.'' {{anchor|Page 65}}(>>PAGE_65>>)''' Windcharger impatiently attempts to down the door with his magnetic powers instead, but only manages to make a racket. The two of them flee, but are spotted by Megatron who peers through the door just as they exit the passage. The Decepticon leader retreats back into his spy room, and takes a shortcut to the storage room, soon appearing before the two startled Autobots in his weapon form. {{anchor|Page 66}}'''(PAGE_66)''' The nuclear-charged fusion cannon blasts Windcharger and Beachcomber, leaving little remains in his shot’s wake. Powerglide does not fare much better, as he is soon captured while wandering around the fortress, and reprogrammed to lead the Decepticons back to the Autobots’ headquarters. The Autobots are caught off-guard by the attack, and though they fight well, soon only Optimus Prime remains. Megatron informs his foe that he has no plans to destroy him. Merely… alter him, so that he will become his newest weapon and ally. With his help, Megatron plans to destroy all of Earth’s cities. But Optimus would rather die than join the Decepticons, and with a last effort, initiates the self-destruct sequence for the Autobots’ base. The large explosion annihilates Optimus and all the Decepticons, bringing a sudden end to their war.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber sets out to explore the fortress on his own...'' {{anchor|Page 60}}(>>PAGE_60>>)''' as he watches Powerglide charge recklessly down the lit corridor and Windcharger head back for the rocky passage. He looks around to see nothing but closed doors and more empty corridors. Opening a door, he spots [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] on the other side, and quickly fires at the Decepticon. But Dirge dodges his shot with ease, and stuns Beachcomber with a [[Concussion weapon|concussion missile]].Dirge then proceeds to dismember Beachcomber, and extract the last fifteen minutes of footage from the Autobot’s memory tape. Learning that Powerglide and Windcharger are also in the vicinity, Dirge radios Megatron, who in turn orders the Decepticons to find the other intruders. {{anchor|Page 38}}'''(PAGE_38)''' Powerglide and Windcharger are soon captured and brought before Megatron. After taunting them, Megatron order [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] to dispose of them in whatever gruesome manner he chooses. Then, taking Beachcomber’s communicator, he disguises his voice and sends a request for back-up to Autobot headquarters. Optimus responds quickly, only for him and his troops to be mowed down by the Decepticons. With the Autobots destroyed, nothing can stop the Decepticons from subjugating the Earth.

:::'''THE END'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber decides to infiltrate the Decepticons’ fortress by himself...'' {{anchor|Page 62}}(>>PAGE_62>>)''' and cautiously steps towards the cliffside. At first he is unsure whether or not the doors will open for him. But as soon as he is in position, the automated doors slide open. Within the fortress, Beachcomber hears a humming sound and spots a dim light in the otherwise dark room. Just as he is enters, he hears humans talking nearby. He wonders if there could possibly be humans working in league with the Decepticons? As he wonders whether or not he should investigate the human voices, the doors to the fortress begin to close. They might not open for him again if he leaves. What to do?

:'''''Investigate the human voices?'' (>>[[#Page 21|PAGE_21]]>>)'''

:'''''Proceed within the Decepticon fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 14|PAGE_14]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber decides to investigate the human voices...'' {{anchor|Page 21}}(>>PAGE_21>>)''' figuring that if the doors opened for him once, they’ll do so again. Transforming into dune buggy mode, he drives towards the human voices, and encounters [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster]] and [[Jesse (G1)|Jessie]]! Buster recognizes Beachcomber despite the Autobot being in vehicle mode, and exclaims that he’s happy to see him. Jessie explains that they were exploring when they discovered the Decepticons’ fortress. Buster elaborates that they discovered a secret passage that lead within, and overheard Megatron explaining to his troops how he plans to take over the world. {{anchor|Page 22}}'''(PAGE_22)''' The Decepticons’ plan involves [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] firing the "Destruction Beam" from a lab hidden in the cliff. Afterwards, the Decepticons will employ Rumble’s seismic abilities to enlarge to fissure that the beam will create, causing a massive earthquake. Jessie further explains the beam will be tested on Center City in about an hour and a half. With this information, Beachcomber tells the two humans to hop in so he can drive them back to Autobot headquarters. But soon, Ramjet in vehicle mode appears overhead and starts attacking Beachcomber. Ramjet then transforms and quickly scoops up Jessie, flying off with her as a hostage. Beachcomber wants to proceed to Autobot headquarters to get help, but Buster pleads for him to go after Ramjet and rescue Jessie.

::'''''Should Beachcomber return to the Decepticon fortress and attempt to rescue Jessie?'' (>>[[#Page 26|PAGE_26]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber continue back to the Autobots’ base and ask for help?'' (>>[[#Page 32|PAGE_32]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''Buster convinces Beachcomber to go after Jessie.'' {{anchor|Page 26}}(>>PAGE_26>>)''' Beachcomber reasons that they wouldn’t be able to reach Autobot headquarters and return in an hour-and-a-half anyways. But he explains to Buster that he can’t take the fortress’s main entrance, as the Decepticons will now be expecting them. Buster reassures Beachcomber that he found the secret entrance to the Decepticons’ base once, and he’ll do so again. Once before the secret entrance, Beachcomber transforms. {{anchor|Page 27}}'''(PAGE_27)''' Venturing within, the two of them soon hear Decepticon voices, along with Jessie’s. Buster insists they follow the voices, but Beachcomber would rather hide.

:::'''''Follow the voices?'' (>>[[#Page 46|PAGE_46]]>>)'''

:::'''''Find a hiding place?'' (>>[[#Page 49|PAGE_49]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeJessieKidnapped.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 27|PAGE_27]]<<)''' '''''At Buster’s insistance, Beachcomber agrees to follow the Decepticon voices.'' {{anchor|Page 46}}(>>PAGE_46>>)''' They soon spot Soundwave and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] locking Jessie away in a dark cell. Once the Decepticons leave, Buster and Beachcomber come out of hiding. {{anchor|Page 70}}'''(PAGE_70)''' Beachcomber and Buster reassure Jessie that they will get her out, and use a miniature laser from Beachcomber’s armament to cut open a hole in the solid steel door to Jessie’s cell. Once freed, Jessie is pleased to announce she has learned that the controls for the Destruction Beam are nearby. She is keen on finding them and save Center City. But despite their best efforts, the three of them cannot find the lab in the maze-like corridors. Pulling the humans aside, Beachcomber explains that they’re better off getting help than running around fruitlessly. {{anchor|Page 48}}'''(PAGE_48)''' Soon they are back at Autobot headquarters, where Mirage devises a plan. Beachcomber and Mirage return to the fortress, and use the secret entrance to sneak inside once more. Once there, they use Mirage’s holographic abilities to trick a passing Buzzsaw into thinking that the fortress is overrun with Autobots. After pushing an alarm, Buzzsaw rushes to the lab to guard it, but is followed by the two Autobots. Now having reached their target, the Autobots overpower Buzzsaw and destroy the lab, along with the Destruction Beam machine. The deed accomplish, the two Autobots rush outside to safety while the Decepticons scramble to defend themselves an enemy army that isn’t there.

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 27|PAGE_27]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber convinces Buster that they should hide...'' {{anchor|Page 49}}(>>PAGE_49>>)''' …and the voices soon fade into the distance. But once they are alone, both Beachcomber and Buster come to realize that they have no plan to get themselves out of this situation. Nonetheless, Beachcomber tells Buster that if they work together, they will be able to figure something out. {{anchor|Page 56}}'''(PAGE_56)''' Creeping out of their hiding place, Buster opens a nearby door slowly, only to be met by Ramjet once again. Having the duo cornered, Ramjet advances menacingly onto them. But Beachcomber tricks the dim-witted Decepticon into looking away by telling Buster other Autobots are coming down the corridor now. Once Ramjet is distracted, Beachcomber shoves his way past the Decepticon, and races off with Buster. {{anchor|Page 40}}'''(PAGE_40)''' But neither Buster or Beachcomber can find their way in the Decepticons’ maze-like fortress, and soon Megatron, Dirge, Starscream and Ramjet are all bearing down upon them. Taking the Autobot and the human prisoners, Megatron escorts the pair at gun-point to his laboratory. {{anchor|Page 7}}'''(PAGE_7)''' Megatron forces the two of them to watch a monitor displaying the beam’s progress as it hits Center City, signalling its doom. Megatron gloats of his victory before he pulls his trigger, firing upon his helpless prisoners.

::::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber drives back to Autobot base, despite Buster’s protests.'' {{anchor|Page 32}}(>>PAGE_32>>)''' Beachcomber explains that the Decepticons are unlikely to harm Jessie, as she is far more useful to them alive than dead, though Buster is still sour towards Beachcomber for his decision. Once at their headquarters, Beachcomber explains what has taken place to the Autobots, provoking a particularly strong emotional response from Brawn. Optimus leads over two-dozen Autobots back to the hills where the Decepticons’ secret fortress is located. {{anchor|Page 45}}'''(PAGE_45)''' Before reaching their destination, Optimus explains two possible course of action; either storm the front entrance by force, or sneak into the base using the secret entrance Buster and Jessie found. [Choose a number between one and ten.]

:::'''''If you chose an even number, go to:'' (>>[[#Page 57|PAGE_57]]>>)'''

:::'''''If you chose an odd number, go to:'' (>>[[#Page 54|PAGE_54]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 45|PAGE_45]]<<)''' '''''[You chose an even number]'' {{anchor|Page 57}}(>>PAGE_57>>)''' The Autobots choose to storm the fortress through the front door. But just as Beachcomber steps before the cliffside and the doors slide open, he hesitates. Turning back, he whines to Optimus Prime that they shouldn’t fight, and that violence only begets more violence. Optimus groans at Beachcomber’s inopportune timing, but before he can issue another order, Megatron’s voice booms through the doorway. He claims that the Autobots are within the sights of an enormous Decepticon arsenal! {{anchor|Page 58}}'''(PAGE_58)''' But the Autobots have no intention of surrendering, and fight valiantly. Unfortunately, the Decepticons are on familiar turf, and soon either slay or take prisoner all of the Autobots. Basking in his victory, Megatron invites the rest of the Decepticons to come observe the destruction of Center City. He then explains to his troops that this is only the beginning. Soon, every city on Earth will fall the Destruction Beam!

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 45|PAGE_45]]<<)''' '''''[You chose an odd number]'' {{anchor|Page 54}}(>>PAGE_54>>)''' The Autobots choose a stealthier approach, and let Buster lead them to the secret entrance. Once inside, Optimus instructs to attack any Decepticons they see, save Megatron, who he wants captured alive. The Autobots break up into small groups and start storming the entire fortress. One of these groups, composed of Sunstreaker, Beachcomber, Brawn, Buster and lead by Optimus himself soon find themselves in a lighted hallway lined with locked doors on either side. {{anchor|Page 71}}'''(PAGE_71)''' Before they proceed, Optimus explains that they need to focus their efforts on finding the Decepticons’ lab first. They are then accosted by Buzzsaw, [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] and Ramjet. After a brief scuffle, the Decepticons are incapacitated, but so is Sunstreaker. Optimus sadly reasons that they need to leave him behind for now, and the squadron continues to search for the lab. They come to a branch in the hallway, and must choose to go either left or right. [You must flip a coin]

::::'''If the coin comes up heads, the Autobots take the right passageway.'' (>>[[#Page 55|PAGE_55]]>>)'''

::::'''If the coin comes up tails, the Autobots take the left passageway.'' (>>[[#Page 52|PAGE_52]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 71|PAGE_71]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots take the right passageway...'' {{anchor|Page 55}}(>>PAGE_55>>)''' and begin heading down a corridor that seems to lead nowhere. Though there are no doors for a long stretch of the corridor, the Autobots begin to hear a faint voice as they proceed down the hallway. It’s Jessie! Finally finding themselves before a large door, Optimus breaks it down freeing the human from Decepticon captivity. Jessie tumbles into Buster’s arms, and informs the Autobots that she knows where the lab is! She leads the squad to a small red door, and tells them the controls to the Destruction Beam are within. But when the Autobots bust down the door, they find themselves surrounded by Decepticons! Megatron congratulate on her work! {{anchor|Page 50}}'''(PAGE_50)''' Jessie has been brainwashed by the Decepticons, and lead them into a trap, all according to Megatron’s plan! Taking away the Autobots’ communicators, Megatron sends Jessie out again to lure more Autobots into his trap. All the while, Optimus observes through a monitor the Destruction Beam coming into contact with Center City. Megatron takes note of this, and proudly announces that Rumble will soon be on location to finish the city in an earthquake. Megatron then orders Starscream to lock-up the Autobots. At least they aren’t being deactivated. Maybe Optimus will be able to formulate a plan? If not, this is truly…

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 71|PAGE_71]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots take the left passageway...'' {{anchor|Page 52}}(>>PAGE_52>>)''' and soon come upon a huge door marked "LAB." A precocious Beachcomber uses his sensors to detect what awaits them behind the door. He discovers that beyond the doorway, there is nothing. A drop of at least 100 feet. A trap. Buster then spots another door hidden in the shadows, which Optimus surmises is probably the true laboratory. Calling for six more Autobots as back up first, then blasts open the hidden door. As Optimus had guessed, this is the real lab! Brawn quickly dispatches the three Decepticons within. Then, Megatron strides in, only to encounter the wrong end of Optimus Prime’s laser rifle. Optimus instructs Megatron not to move, lest the Decepticon leader wishes to be blown to bits. {{anchor|Page 59}}'''(PAGE_59)''' Optimus demands to know how to halt the Destruction Beam’s progress. Megatron points him to a red button, but Optimus catches Megatron smiling just as he is about to push it. Optimus guesses that the button would most likely activate a self-destruct sequence, and demands once more how to stop the Destruction Beam. Megatron in turn screams that he will never give Optimus that information. But Megatron betrays his intentions once more, as Optimus notices the Decepticon is staring towards a lever across the room. Optimus instructs to pull the lever, and the beam is finally disarmed. Hours later, the Decepticons have all been defeated and deactivated, and Jessie has been rescued. The Autobots later celebrate by guzzling a few quarts of fine-grade [[oil]]. Buster and Jessie enjoy super-fudge ice cream sundaes instead.

:::::'''THE END'''

[[File:EarthquakeBeachcomberdisassembled.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber proceeds within the Decepticon fortress...'' {{anchor|Page 14}}(>>PAGE_14>>)''' and makes it within just as the doors close behind him. But as he rushes into the fortress, he finds Buzzsaw waiting for him! In an instant, Beachcomber is torn to pieces by the Decepticon! Then [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] emerges from the shadows, and further dismantles the Autobot. He soon finds Beachcomber’s memory circuits, and then carries what is left of the Autobot to Megatron. After extracting all the useful information they can find from Beachcomber’s mind, the Decepticons hatch a new plan… {{anchor|Page 19}}'''(PAGE_19)''' Megatron calls for [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] and [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] and instructs them to rebuild Beachcomber, with one modification. He hands the Constructicon two nearly identical chips; one being the Autobot’s original mind, the other a "Destructicon" chip. Megatron explains that the alternate chip will render Beachcomber the perfect undercover agent. However, when the time comes to reinsert Beachcomber’s memory chip, the bungling Constructicons mistakenly put the original one back in! Later, Beachcomber returns to Autobot headquarters, and informs Optimus of all that has transpired. Beachcomber also tells Optimus of all the plans that Megatron shared with him! With Beachcomber as the perfect reverse-double-agent, the Autobots are sure to defeat the Decepticons quickly!

::'''THE END'''
{{-}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters|nonumbering=true
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]]
* [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]]
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]]
* [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]]
* [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]]
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]
* [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]
* [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]]
* [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]]

|c2=
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]]
* [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]]
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]]
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]]
* [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]

|c3=
* [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]]
* [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster]]
* [[Jesse (G1)|Jessie]]
* [[Mayor Todd]]
}}

==Notes==
* Ann Matthews is a pseudonym of Ann M. Martin, who is known for creating ''{{w|The Baby-Sitters Club}}'' series.
* One of the vanishingly few appearances of Jesse (here spelled "Jessie") outside of Marvel Comics.
* Beachcomber is armed with a gun that shoots bullets. It's not especially effective, at least against the [[conehead]]s.
**Though they're never depicted as coneheads here, thanks to being toy/box-art based.
* Beachcomber's brain functions involve "memory tape". That's apparently standard for this micro-continuity-nexus, since Dirge is able to replay it (exactly how isn't explained; Soundwave and the cassettes aren't around) to gather intel after disassembling him. Dirge specifically replays "the last 15 minutes", implying he considers that the equivalent of Transformer short-term memory. This also implies that a Transformer's brain is much larger here than in most major continuities.
* Ratchet and Laserbeak are mentioned by other characters, but don't appear in a story path proper.
* This book was available individually, or as part of a six-book box set with the other five "pre-Movie era" books in the series.
===Errors===
* On page 62, there is a typo; "Quick" is mispelt as "Ouick."

==External links==
*[http://www.gamebooks.org/show_item.php?id=1147 Earthquake on Demian's Gamebook Web Page]

*[https://toyhax.com/FYF/ Screenshot of Ann M. Martin confirming that she wrote this issue]
[[Category:Generation 1 multipath adventures]]

Earthquake (book)

2024-11-23T22:15:54Z

Bigmanhelperhouseman: /* Synopsis */

{{Disambig3|earthquake}}
{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[Find Your Fate Junior]] #4
|prev=Attack of the Insecticons
|next=Desert Flight
|title="Earthquake"
|image=Earthquake fyf.jpg
|caption=I AM NOT A SHARK! I AM A MAN!
|publisher=[[Ballantine Books]]
|imprint=[[Find Your Fate Junior]]
|date=1986
|writer=[[Ann Matthews]]
|illustrator=[[William Schmidt]] (interior pencils and cover painting)
|pagecount=73
|ISBN=ISBN 9780345330710 ISBN 0-345-33071-4
}}
[[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] discovers a hidden [[Decepticon]] [[Destruction Beam#hidden fortress|base]], from which they are planning to destroy the nearby [[Center City]], a dry run at destroying all the world's capitals.

==Synopsis==
{{anchor|Page 1}}'''(PAGE_1)''' The Autobots lounge around their secret headquarters near Center City, Oregon, enjoying a day with no sign of Decepticon activity. [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus]] strikes up a conversation with the rest of the Autobots to remark on their good fortune. [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] reads a book, [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] is busy polishing himself, and [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] uses "special circuitry-building equipment" to work out. [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]], [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] and [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] join in on the conversation to discuss the opposing faction. {{anchor|Page 2}}'''(PAGE_2)''' Beachcomber waxes on about wanting a day to enjoy the great outdoors, so Optimus grants him a leave of absence. The Autobot dune buggy drive peacefully into the countryside, until the earth begins to shudder beneath his wheels. {{anchor|Page 3}}'''(PAGE_3)''' Frantically searching for the disturbance’s source, Beachcomber soon spots the Decepticon [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] practicing his seismic abilities. After a few more small tremors, Rumble appears pleased with himself and saunters off towards a cliff face. Following from a safe distance, Beachcomber witnesses the cliff opening up to allow Rumble into a secret Decepticon base. Beachcomber wants to report his ridings back to Optimus, but is afraid he might not be able to find his way back here once he leaves.

'''''Should Beachcomber hurry back to Autobot headquarters anyways?'' (>>[[#Page 5|PAGE_5]]>>)'''

'''''Should Beachcomber attempt to infiltrate the Decepticon fortress by himself?'' (>>[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]>>)'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber reports back to Autobot headquarters...'' {{anchor|Page 5}}(>>PAGE_5>>)''' after attempting to memorize every feature on the cliffside so as to recognize it later. Once Optimus has been informed on Beachcomber’s discovery, he sends him back, along with Powerglide and [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] to investigate the secret Decepticon base. {{anchor|Page 6}}'''(PAGE_6)''' Once they have found their way back to the location in question, the three Autobots puzzle over how to infiltrate the Decepticon fortress.

:'''''Should they attempt to enter through the same door Rumble disappeared through, and risk being easily detected by their foes?'' (>>[[#Page 10|PAGE_10]]>>)'''

:'''''Should they attempt to find another entrance with Beachcomber’s sensors, despite that it might waste precious time?'' (>>[[#Page 8|PAGE_8]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6|PAGE_6]]<<)''' '''''Powerglide, Beachcomber and Windcharger attempt to enter the Decepticon base through the cliffside… ''{{anchor|Page 10}}(>>PAGE_10>>)''' ...with Windcharger tempting his luck first. As he walks up to the cliffside, the concealed door open up for him automatically… Only to slam shut on him, badly damaging the Autobot. The doors open up again, and the Decepticons spill out of their fortress. Thinking fast, Beachcomber shouts to Powerglide that he hopes that Rumble will not start another quake. His attempt at reverse psychology works, as Rumble laughs at the Autobots before doing just that. Rumble’s quake causes the Decepticon fortress to crumble, burying the Decepticons in a cave-in, while Beachcomber and Powerglide dash out of the quake’s range. The two of them plan to return to the ruins once the dust has settles, so to retrieve Windcharger. [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] will be able to fix him up, and the Autobots won’t have to worry about the Decepticons for a while longer.

::'''THE END'''

[[File:EarthquakePowerglideBeahccomberWindcharger.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6|PAGE_6]]<<)''' '''''Powerglide, Beachcomber and Windcharger search for another way into the Decepticon fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 8}}(>>PAGE_8>>)''' soon finding a narrow passageway in the cliff hidden by bushes and scrub brush. {{anchor|Page 64}}'''(PAGE_64)''' At the end of the rocky passageway the Autobots discover a storage room. At the far end of it are two exits. One leads to another rocky passage just like the one the Autobots have just emerged from. The other is blocked by a door with a complicated lock. The lock proves to be a small deterrent, as Beachcomber manages to quickly disable it. Opening the door reveals a brightly lit corridor, which Powerglide insists on investigating. Windcharger, however, insists on going into the rocky passage instead. It looks like the team is splitting up.

::'''''Should Beachcomber accompany Windcharger into the rocky passage?'' (>>[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber accompany Powerglide into the brightly-lit corridor?'' (>>[[#Page 20|PAGE_20]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber set off on his own to explore another region of the fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 60|PAGE_60]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber accompanies Windcharger down the rocky passage...'' {{anchor|Page 11}}(>>PAGE_11>>)''' …soon finding their path blocked by a heavy stone doorway. The two Autobots hear faint Decepticon voices from beyond the door, but cannot tell whether they are coming from directly behind the door, or from farther within the fortress. Windcharger is eager to burst through the door and take the Decepticons by surprise. The hesitant Beachcomber would prefer to return to the storage room and seek another more secretive way into the fortress.

:::'''''Should Beachcomber return to the storage room?'' (>>[[#Page 13|PAGE_13]]>>)'''

:::'''''Should Beachcomber remain with Windcharger?'' (>>[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber leaves Windcharger to return to the storage room.'' {{anchor|Page 13}}(>>PAGE_13>>)''' But Beachcomber is scared of exploring the fortress by himself. Hoping to catch up with Powerglide, he heads back towards the brightly lit corridor. The two Autobots reunite, and commence to explore the fortress carefully. '''(>>[[#Page 20|PAGE_20]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]] OR [[#Page 13|PAGE_13]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber and Powerglide explore the corridor...'' {{anchor|Page 20}}(>>PAGE_20>>)''' pausing at each doorway to listen. Finding everything strangely silent, Beachcomber begins to question wether the element of surprise is truly on their side. But Decepticons voices become audible as they duo reach the end of the corridor. Beachcomber and Powerglide pause to listen. {{anchor|Page 16}}'''(PAGE_16)''' They overhear [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] discussing his plan with [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]. The Decepticon leader plans to wipe humanity off the face of the Earth with the aid of the "[[Destruction Beam]]" and Rumble’s earthquake-inducing abilities; the beam will create a fault line in an area, which will allow Rumble to cause massive destruction within a disaster radius. Once humanity is eradicated, the entire planet with be transformed into a massive laboratory. Afterwards, the Decepticons will return to Cybertron to reclaim as their own. The two Autobots further learn that Center City, the testing ground for this plot, will be reached by the Destruction Beam in one hour, fifty-two minutes, and thirty-seven seconds. {{anchor|Page 17}}'''(PAGE_17)''' Shocked by this discovery, Powerglide and Beachcomber race back to the fortress’s secret entrance, finding Windcharger already there. All three transform and return to Autobot headquarters. Once Optimus is informed of Megatron’s plan, the Autobots decide to split up into two groups. One will be the lead group, formed of the more powerful Autobots, and the other a smaller secondary group. But which group should be sent at which location?

::::'''''Send the lead group be sent to the fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 68|PAGE_68]]>>)'''

::::'''''Should the lead group be sent to Center City?'' (>>[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots’ lead team is sent to the Decepticons’ fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 68}}(>>PAGE_68>>)''' Amongst them is Optimus, Cosmos, Beachcomber, Brawn and [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]. Beachcomber locates the front door to the Decepticons’ fortress, and Brawn prevents them from closing while the Autobots storm the base. Though the Decepticons attempt to counter-attack, the Autobots disable them one by one. Optimus manages to get a hold of Megatron, and forces the Decepticon leader to guide him towards the Decepticons’ lab at gun-point. Beachcomber and Inferno follow them, while the battle continues to rage on behind them. {{anchor|Page 30}}'''(PAGE_30)''' Once inside the lab, Megatron shows them a monitor displaying the Destruction beam’s path towards Central City. Though Megatron ceases to cooperate when Optimus orders him to stop the beam from reaching its target, Beachcomber spots a button that causes the laser to dispel. Optimus declares: "Central City is safe, and the Decepticons are going down in history as a bunch of losers!" before sending the Destruction Beam machine to "robot heaven." The Autobots leave the fortress with Megatron as their prisoner of war, and the remaining Decepticons permanently maimed. The Autobots are later forced to release Megatron, however, in exchange with the safe release of the Autobots that were defeated in Central City while Optimus led the raid on the Decepticon base. Though Optimus knows the Decepticons are bound to brew more trouble, for the moment being he is happy to relax and recharge.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots’ lead team is sent to Center City.'' {{anchor|Page 36}}(>>PAGE_36>>)''' But they must be careful not to surpass the speed limit by too much, lest they bring attention to themselves. Accordingly, Cosmos hides in Optimus Prime’s trailer as they head down the highway. But Cosmos is displeased with this turn of events, and complains that if he can’t even be out in the open while the Autobots travel down a deserted road, for fear of instilling panic in the humans, how will he manage to be of any use once they reach Central City. Optimus considers Cosmos argument, and pulls over to…

:::::'''''Send Cosmos back to the Decepticon fortress to help the secondary team?'' (>>[[#Page 31|PAGE_31]]>>)'''

:::::'''''Assert that Cosmos better stay with the main group?'' (>>[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeCosmosspies.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]<<)''' '''''Cosmos is sent to help out the secondary team at the Decepticon fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 31}}(>>PAGE_31>>)''' Using his communicator to ask [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] for directions, he soon happens upon the cliff concealing the Decepticon base. The base’s doors are wide open and the smaller Autobot team is nowhere to be seen, so Cosmos decides to head into the gaping doorway. He pauses before doing so, attempting to reach Smokescreen once again over the communicator to no avail. Cautiously stepping inside, Cosmos hears a door creak open… {{anchor|Page 28}}'''(PAGE_28)''' Hearing voices coming from beyond the creaking door, he ventures within and hides behind a large machine. He beholds [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and Soundwave plotting together. Starscream tells Soundwave of how Megatron has become careless as of late, even forgetting to change the coded lock on his personal chambers. Now Starscream knows how to get in, and exposits how it would be a simple matter for him and Soundwave to lie in wait in their leader’s quarters, ready to ambush when he returns. Soundwave agrees, noting how he could stun their leader with his [[Gamma ray]] and they could usurp Megatron’s leadership of the Decepticons. Having heard enough, Cosmos begins to sneak out of the room, only to bump into Megatron himself. But before Megatron has a chance to attack, Cosmos tells him that he has information which might interest him. Does Megatron...

::::::'''''Hear Cosmos out?'' (>>[[#Page 4|PAGE_4]]>>)'''

::::::'''''Disregard what the Autobot has to say?'' (>>[[#Page 39|PAGE_39]]>>)'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 28|PAGE_28]]<<)''' '''''Megatron pauses to listen to what Cosmos has to say.'' {{anchor|Page 4}}(>>PAGE_4>>)''' Cosmos divulges what he has just heard Starscream and Soundwave say, being sure to put extra drama where it suits him. Megatron is infuriated at these revelations, and strides into the generator room to deal with the traitors. Cosmos hears the entire fortress tremble as Megatron fires his [[Fusion cannon]], and quickly hides when more Decepticons rush by him towards Megatron. Soon, two groups rally in the generator room where Megatron stands, one loyal to Megatron, the other loyal to Soundwave and Starscream. As Cosmos takes off to avoid being caught in the middle of the Decepticon mutiny, he bumps into Sunstreaker, who informs Cosmos that the rest of them have found the Decepticons’ lab. {{anchor|Page 33}}'''(PAGE_33)''' Joining Inferno before the Destruction Beam machine, Cosmos tells the others of what is taking place between Decepticon ranks, and is eager to finish the Decepticons off. But Inferno advises against the lot of them staying, and soon they are all fleeing away from the fortress. Suddenly, the fortress is caught in an enormous explosion, obliterating it. Inferno tells the others that they not only succeeded in halting the Destruction Beam's progress towards Center City, but they also redirected it to return to its source. The humans never need fear the Decepticons ever again!

:::::::'''THE END'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 28|PAGE_28]]<<)''' '''''Megatron ignores Cosmos’s pleas...'' {{anchor|Page 39}}(>>PAGE_39>>)''' and informs him nothing would dissuade him from blasting the little Autobot. Pressing an alarm on the wall, Megatron calls to him the rest of the Decepticons. Cosmos’s communicator remains silent as well. All seems lost when Cosmos spots [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] and half of the secondary team behind him, running down the hallway towards the Decepticons. The other half of the team is rushing down the corridor’s opposite end, surrounding the Decepticons. Though the Autobots want to end the battle quickly to deal with the Destruction Beam, they are forced to stay and fight until the last Decepticon falls. Just then, an ear-shattering roar is emanates down the fortress’s corridors… {{anchor|Page 67}}'''(PAGE_67)''' Rushing outdoors, the Autobots witness a cloud of dust rising from Center City’s remains. Though the Autobots on location fought bravely, once the Destruction Beam reached its target, there was nothing that could stop Rumble from making the city collapse underground. The rest of the Autobots surely perished during their mission. Cosmos and company return within the Decepticon base to destroy the lab therein, but bemoan their pyrrhic victory. At least several powerful enemies have been disposed of, and Megatron no longer has a lab to aid in his attempts at conquest. But the war isn’t over, it’s just beginning.

:::::::'''THE END'''

::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]<<)''' '''''Optimus assures Cosmos that he should stay with the Autobots’ main team.'' {{anchor|Page 37}}(>>PAGE_37>>)''' The Autobots continue towards Center City, only taking a short detour to pick up [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]], to act as medium between themselves and the humans. Optimus informs Sparkplug about what is going on, and before the Autobots enter Center City, asks Sparkplug which course of action would be wiser to take:

::::::'''''Enter Center City as robots, risking spooking the humans into a panic?'' (>>[[#Page 34|PAGE_34]]>>)'''

::::::'''''Enter Center City as vehicles, limiting the Autobots’ combat effectiveness?'' (>>[[#Page 51|PAGE_51]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeAutobotspanickingtownfolk.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]<<)''' '''''Sparkplug advises the Autobots to enter Central City in their robot modes.'' {{anchor|Page 34}}(>>PAGE_34>>)''' Optimus and his troops enter Center City ignoring the humans’ reactions to their appearance, as they concentrate on spotting any Decepticons in the area. When they fail to see any of their enemies, Optimus decides to speak to the city’s mayor and implore him to evacuate the city. But before they reach City Hall, policemen begin to announce that Center City is under siege by giant robots and that the citizens need to find shelter. {{anchor|Page 63}}'''(PAGE_63)''' Although at first Optimus assumes that the Decepticons are the robots are the ones causing the panic, Cosmos soon figures that the robots "attacking" the city are themselves. The humans panic and run uselessly around in the streets, instead of finding shelter as they were advised. It would be impossible to find the mayor in all of this confusion now. {{anchor|Page 42}}'''(PAGE_42)''' In an attempt to appease the humans, the Autobots transform back into vehicle mode. But they’ve run out of time. The Destruction Beam hits nearby, prompting Rumble to come out of hiding and begin using his seismic abilities in the middle of the street. The resulting fissures swallow up people, cars, streets and buildings. Five Autobots are swallowed up by a gaping chasm that appears suddenly. Then [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] appears overhead, signalling that the Autobots failed to deal with the rest of the Decepticons at the fortress. The earthquakes continue, as the rest of the city, and the last of the Autobots fall into the abyss. After the destruction comes to a halt, Megatron comes forth to inspect his handiwork. With the Autobots out of commission, the Earth is about to become a very unpleasant place for humans.

:::::::'''THE END'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]<<)''' '''''Sparkplug advises the Autobots to enter Center City in their vehicle modes.'' {{anchor|Page 51}}(>>PAGE_51>>)''' Though Beachcomber doubts they will be able to accomplish much in their vehicle modes, Sparkplug claims otherwise. Being an old friend of the Mayor’s he will seek audience with him, and convince him to evacuate the city. As for the means of the evacuation, it is the Autobots that will provide it. Though they will need to make several trips, the Autobots will ferry the humans out of the city in their vehicle modes. {{anchor|Page 43}}'''(PAGE_43)''' Once inside City Hall, Sparkplug speaks urgently with Mayor Todd. He convinces the mayor that Center City is right on a fault line, and due for an earthquake at any moment. Soon, every radio station in town is transmitting the evacuation plan to Center City’s residents, and everyone is evacuated in an orderly fashion. Meanwhile, Cosmos scouts high above, on the look-out for approaching Decepticons. As Optimus unloads his last batch at a nearby campsite, Cosmos radios him, letting him know that the Decepticons are approaching. {{anchor|Page 44}}'''(PAGE_44)''' Soon, the Destruction Beams courses down, causing a fault in the city’s foundation. Knowing that this means that the secondary team failed in their objective, the Autobots drive into the city in the hopes of stopping Rumble from completing his mission. {{anchor|Page 72}}'''(PAGE_72)''' The first Decepticons they encounter are Rumble and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]. They are quickly picked off by Optimus before more Decepticons arrive. One by one, the Decepticons are downed by the Autobots as they arrive in Center City. As the Decepticons are caught unawares, the battle is won with ease. Once the earthquake is avoided, the Autobots set out for the Decepticons’ fortress, passing by the campground where they dropped off the city’s residents. The humans see the Autobots in their robot modes, but are unafraid, having seen the Autobots’ heroic deeds. They cheer the Autobots on as they head towards the fortress to end the Decepticons once and for all!

:::::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber remains with Windcharger.'' {{anchor|Page 24}}(>>PAGE_24>>)''' Though Windcharger is eager to bust down the door with his magnetic powers, Beachcomber points out a string of numbers written out on a lighted panel above the door:
::::16/21/19/8–18/5/4/—2/21/20/20/15/14
::::Beachcomber surmises that it is a code, and by cracking it they’ll be able to make it through the door. Windcharger admits he’s not great a cracking codes, however. Can [[you]] help them crack it?

::::'''''Yes.'' (>>[[#Page 18|PAGE_18]]>>)'''

::::'''''No.'' (>>[[#Page 65|PAGE_65]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots crack the code.'' {{anchor|Page 18}}(>>PAGE_18>>)''' With the puzzle solved, the Autobots open the door {{anchor|Page 25}}'''(PAGE_25)''' and step forth into an elaborate spy station. But the monitors within the room display other rooms within the Decepticons’ fortress. Windcharger reasons that Megatron uses this room to spy on his own troops. Before they investigate further, they hear footstep approaching and hide a bank of computer screens. {{anchor|Page 12}}'''(PAGE_12)''' From their hiding spot, they hear [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] announce that the "Destruction Beam" has just left the lab. Megatron is pleased at the news, and gloats that the Autobots will be unable to stop his plan. Megatron then enters the room alone, shutting the door behind him. Immediately, Windcharger and Beachcomber jump the Decepticon leader, the former disarming him with his magnetic powers. Beachcomber bluffs that the entire fortress is surrounded. He warns Megatron that the entire fortress will be destroyed with them inside unless Megatron orders his troops to surrender. Believing he has no choice, Megatron does so and agrees to show the Autobots where his lab containing the Destruction Beam machine is located. While Windcharger keeps watch over Megatron, Beachcomber quietly sends a message to Optimus for him to send the Autobots over. Center City still stands, but the Decepticons have fallen.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots are unable to solve the code.'' {{anchor|Page 65}}(>>PAGE_65>>)''' Windcharger impatiently attempts to down the door with his magnetic powers instead, but only manages to make a racket. The two of them flee, but are spotted by Megatron who peers through the door just as they exit the passage. The Decepticon leader retreats back into his spy room, and takes a shortcut to the storage room, soon appearing before the two startled Autobots in his weapon form. {{anchor|Page 66}}'''(PAGE_66)''' The nuclear-charged fusion cannon blasts Windcharger and Beachcomber, leaving little remains in his shot’s wake. Powerglide does not fare much better, as he is soon captured while wandering around the fortress, and reprogrammed to lead the Decepticons back to the Autobots’ headquarters. The Autobots are caught off-guard by the attack, and though they fight well, soon only Optimus Prime remains. Megatron informs his foe that he has no plans to destroy him. Merely… alter him, so that he will become his newest weapon and ally. With his help, Megatron plans to destroy all of Earth’s cities. But Optimus would rather die than join the Decepticons, and with a last effort, initiates the self-destruct sequence for the Autobots’ base. The large explosion annihilates Optimus and all the Decepticons, bringing a sudden end to their war.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber sets out to explore the fortress on his own...'' {{anchor|Page 60}}(>>PAGE_60>>)''' as he watches Powerglide charge recklessly down the lit corridor and Windcharger head back for the rocky passage. He looks around to see nothing but closed doors and more empty corridors. Opening a door, he spots [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] on the other side, and quickly fires at the Decepticon. But Dirge dodges his shot with ease, and stuns Beachcomber with a [[Concussion weapon|concussion missile]].Dirge then proceeds to dismember Beachcomber, and extract the last fifteen minutes of footage from the Autobot’s memory tape. Learning that Powerglide and Windcharger are also in the vicinity, Dirge radios Megatron, who in turn orders the Decepticons to find the other intruders. {{anchor|Page 38}}'''(PAGE_38)''' Powerglide and Windcharger are soon captured and brought before Megatron. After taunting them, Megatron order [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] to dispose of them in whatever gruesome manner he chooses. Then, taking Beachcomber’s communicator, he disguises his voice and sends a request for back-up to Autobot headquarters. Optimus responds quickly, only for him and his troops to be mowed down by the Decepticons. With the Autobots destroyed, nothing can stop the Decepticons from subjugating the Earth.

:::'''THE END'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber decides to infiltrate the Decepticons’ fortress by himself...'' {{anchor|Page 62}}(>>PAGE_62>>)''' and cautiously steps towards the cliffside. At first he is unsure whether or not the doors will open for him. But as soon as he is in position, the automated doors slide open. Within the fortress, Beachcomber hears a humming sound and spots a dim light in the otherwise dark room. Just as he is enters, he hears humans talking nearby. He wonders if there could possibly be humans working in league with the Decepticons? As he wonders whether or not he should investigate the human voices, the doors to the fortress begin to close. They might not open for him again if he leaves. What to do?

:'''''Investigate the human voices?'' (>>[[#Page 21|PAGE_21]]>>)'''

:'''''Proceed within the Decepticon fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 14|PAGE_14]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber decides to investigate the human voices...'' {{anchor|Page 21}}(>>PAGE_21>>)''' figuring that if the doors opened for him once, they’ll do so again. Transforming into dune buggy mode, he drives towards the human voices, and encounters [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster]] and [[Jesse (G1)|Jessie]]! Buster recognizes Beachcomber despite the Autobot being in vehicle mode, and exclaims that he’s happy to see him. Jessie explains that they were exploring when they discovered the Decepticons’ fortress. Buster elaborates that they discovered a secret passage that lead within, and overheard Megatron explaining to his troops how he plans to take over the world. {{anchor|Page 22}}'''(PAGE_22)''' The Decepticons’ plan involves [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] firing the "Destruction Beam" from a lab hidden in the cliff. Afterwards, the Decepticons will employ Rumble’s seismic abilities to enlarge to fissure that the beam will create, causing a massive earthquake. Jessie further explains the beam will be tested on Center City in about an hour and a half. With this information, Beachcomber tells the two humans to hop in so he can drive them back to Autobot headquarters. But soon, Ramjet in vehicle mode appears overhead and starts attacking Beachcomber. Ramjet then transforms and quickly scoops up Jessie, flying off with her as a hostage. Beachcomber wants to proceed to Autobot headquarters to get help, but Buster pleads for him to go after Ramjet and rescue Jessie.

::'''''Should Beachcomber return to the Decepticon fortress and attempt to rescue Jessie?'' (>>[[#Page 26|PAGE_26]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber continue back to the Autobots’ base and ask for help?'' (>>[[#Page 32|PAGE_32]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''Buster convinces Beachcomber to go after Jessie.'' {{anchor|Page 26}}(>>PAGE_26>>)''' Beachcomber reasons that they wouldn’t be able to reach Autobot headquarters and return in an hour-and-a-half anyways. But he explains to Buster that he can’t take the fortress’s main entrance, as the Decepticons will now be expecting them. Buster reassures Beachcomber that he found the secret entrance to the Decepticons’ base once, and he’ll do so again. Once before the secret entrance, Beachcomber transforms. {{anchor|Page 27}}'''(PAGE_27)''' Venturing within, the two of them soon hear Decepticon voices, along with Jessie’s. Buster insists they follow the voices, but Beachcomber would rather hide.

:::'''''Follow the voices?'' (>>[[#Page 46|PAGE_46]]>>)'''

:::'''''Find a hiding place?'' (>>[[#Page 49|PAGE_49]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeJessieKidnapped.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 27|PAGE_27]]<<)''' '''''At Buster’s insistance, Beachcomber agrees to follow the Decepticon voices.'' {{anchor|Page 46}}(>>PAGE_46>>)''' They soon spot Soundwave and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] locking Jessie away in a dark cell. Once the Decepticons leave, Buster and Beachcomber come out of hiding. {{anchor|Page 70}}'''(PAGE_70)''' Beachcomber and Buster reassure Jessie that they will get her out, and use a miniature laser from Beachcomber’s armament to cut open a hole in the solid steel door to Jessie’s cell. Once freed, Jessie is pleased to announce she has learned that the controls for the Destruction Beam are nearby. She is keen on finding them and save Center City. But despite their best efforts, the three of them cannot find the lab in the maze-like corridors. Pulling the humans aside, Beachcomber explains that they’re better off getting help than running around fruitlessly. {{anchor|Page 48}}'''(PAGE_48)''' Soon they are back at Autobot headquarters, where Mirage devises a plan. Beachcomber and Mirage return to the fortress, and use the secret entrance to sneak inside once more. Once there, they use Mirage’s holographic abilities to trick a passing Buzzsaw into thinking that the fortress is overrun with Autobots. After pushing an alarm, Buzzsaw rushes to the lab to guard it, but is followed by the two Autobots. Now having reached their target, the Autobots overpower Buzzsaw and destroy the lab, along with the Destruction Beam machine. The deed accomplish, the two Autobots rush outside to safety while the Decepticons scramble to defend themselves an enemy army that isn’t there.

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 27|PAGE_27]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber convinces Buster that they should hide...'' {{anchor|Page 49}}(>>PAGE_49>>)''' …and the voices soon fade into the distance. But once they are alone, both Beachcomber and Buster come to realize that they have no plan to get themselves out of this situation. Nonetheless, Beachcomber tells Buster that if they work together, they will be able to figure something out. {{anchor|Page 56}}'''(PAGE_56)''' Creeping out of their hiding place, Buster opens a nearby door slowly, only to be met by Ramjet once again. Having the duo cornered, Ramjet advances menacingly onto them. But Beachcomber tricks the dim-witted Decepticon into looking away by telling Buster other Autobots are coming down the corridor now. Once Ramjet is distracted, Beachcomber shoves his way past the Decepticon, and races off with Buster. {{anchor|Page 40}}'''(PAGE_40)''' But neither Buster or Beachcomber can find their way in the Decepticons’ maze-like fortress, and soon Megatron, Dirge, Starscream and Ramjet are all bearing down upon them. Taking the Autobot and the human prisoners, Megatron escorts the pair at gun-point to his laboratory. {{anchor|Page 7}}'''(PAGE_7)''' Megatron forces the two of them to watch a monitor displaying the beam’s progress as it hits Center City, signalling its doom. Megatron gloats of his victory before he pulls his trigger, firing upon his helpless prisoners.

::::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber drives back to Autobot base, despite Buster’s protests.'' {{anchor|Page 32}}(>>PAGE_32>>)''' Beachcomber explains that the Decepticons are unlikely to harm Jessie, as she is far more useful to them alive than dead, though Buster is still sour towards Beachcomber for his decision. Once at their headquarters, Beachcomber explains what has taken place to the Autobots, provoking a particularly strong emotional response from Brawn. Optimus leads over two-dozen Autobots back to the hills where the Decepticons’ secret fortress is located. {{anchor|Page 45}}'''(PAGE_45)''' Before reaching their destination, Optimus explains two possible course of action; either storm the front entrance by force, or sneak into the base using the secret entrance Buster and Jessie found. [Choose a number between one and ten.]

:::'''''If you chose an even number, go to:'' (>>[[#Page 57|PAGE_57]]>>)'''

:::'''''If you chose an odd number, go to:'' (>>[[#Page 54|PAGE_54]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 45|PAGE_45]]<<)''' '''''[You chose an even number]'' {{anchor|Page 57}}(>>PAGE_57>>)''' The Autobots choose to storm the fortress through the front door. But just as Beachcomber steps before the cliffside and the doors slide open, he hesitates. Turning back, he whines to Optimus Prime that they shouldn’t fight, and that violence only begets more violence. Optimus groans at Beachcomber’s inopportune timing, but before he can issue another order, Megatron’s voice booms through the doorway. He claims that the Autobots are within the sights of an enormous Decepticon arsenal! {{anchor|Page 58}}'''(PAGE_58)''' But the Autobots have no intention of surrendering, and fight valiantly. Unfortunately, the Decepticons are on familiar turf, and soon either slay or take prisoner all of the Autobots. Basking in his victory, Megatron invites the rest of the Decepticons to come observe the destruction of Center City. He then explains to his troops that this is only the beginning. Soon, every city on Earth will fall the Destruction Beam!

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 45|PAGE_45]]<<)''' '''''[You chose an odd number]'' {{anchor|Page 54}}(>>PAGE_54>>)''' The Autobots choose a stealthier approach, and let Buster lead them to the secret entrance. Once inside, Optimus instructs to attack any Decepticons they see, save Megatron, who he wants captured alive. The Autobots break up into small groups and start storming the entire fortress. One of these groups, composed of Sunstreaker, Beachcomber, Brawn, Buster and lead by Optimus himself soon find themselves in a lighted hallway lined with locked doors on either side. {{anchor|Page 71}}'''(PAGE_71)''' Before they proceed, Optimus explains that they need to focus their efforts on finding the Decepticons’ lab first. They are then accosted by Buzzsaw, [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] and Ramjet. After a brief scuffle, the Decepticons are incapacitated, but so is Sunstreaker. Optimus sadly reasons that they need to leave him behind for now, and the squadron continues to search for the lab. They come to a branch in the hallway, and must choose to go either left or right. [You must flip a coin]

::::'''If the coin comes up heads, the Autobots take the right passageway.'' (>>[[#Page 55|PAGE_55]]>>)'''

::::'''If the coin comes up tails, the Autobots take the left passageway.'' (>>[[#Page 52|PAGE_52]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 71|PAGE_71]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots take the right passageway...'' {{anchor|Page 55}}(>>PAGE_55>>)''' and begin heading down a corridor that seems to lead nowhere. Though there are no doors for a long stretch of the corridor, the Autobots begin to hear a faint voice as they proceed down the hallway. It’s Jessie! Finally finding themselves before a large door, Optimus breaks it down freeing the human from Decepticon captivity. Jessie tumbles into Buster’s arms, and informs the Autobots that she knows where the lab is! She leads the squad to a small red door, and tells them the controls to the Destruction Beam are within. But when the Autobots bust down the door, they find themselves surrounded by Decepticons! Megatron congratulate on her work! {{anchor|Page 50}}'''(PAGE_50)''' Jessie has been brainwashed by the Decepticons, and lead them into a trap, all according to Megatron’s plan! Taking away the Autobots’ communicators, Megatron sends Jessie out again to lure more Autobots into his trap. All the while, Optimus observes through a monitor the Destruction Beam coming into contact with Center City. Megatron takes note of this, and proudly announces that Rumble will soon be on location to finish the city in an earthquake. Megatron then orders Starscream to lock-up the Autobots. At least they aren’t being deactivated. Maybe Optimus will be able to formulate a plan? If not, this is truly…

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 71|PAGE_71]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots take the left passageway...'' {{anchor|Page 52}}(>>PAGE_52>>)''' and soon come upon a huge door marked "LAB." A precocious Beachcomber uses his sensors to detect what awaits them behind the door. He discovers that beyond the doorway, there is nothing. A drop of at least 100 feet. A trap. Buster then spots another door hidden in the shadows, which Optimus surmises is probably the true laboratory. Calling for six more Autobots as back up first, then blasts open the hidden door. As Optimus had guessed, this is the real lab! Brawn quickly dispatches the three Decepticons within. Then, Megatron strides in, only to encounter the wrong end of Optimus Prime’s laser rifle. Optimus instructs Megatron not to move, lest the Decepticon leader wishes to be blown to bits. {{anchor|Page 59}}'''(PAGE_59)''' Optimus demands to know how to halt the Destruction Beam’s progress. Megatron points him to a red button, but Optimus catches Megatron smiling just as he is about to push it. Optimus guesses that the button would most likely activate a self-destruct sequence, and demands once more how to stop the Destruction Beam. Megatron in turn screams that he will never give Optimus that information. But Megatron betrays his intentions once more, as Optimus notices the Decepticon is staring towards a lever across the room. Optimus instructs to pull the lever, and the beam is finally disarmed. Hours later, the Decepticons have all been defeated and deactivated, and Jessie has been rescued. The Autobots later celebrate by guzzling a few quarts of fine-grade [[oil]]. Buster and Jessie enjoy super-fudge ice cream sundaes instead.

:::::'''THE END'''

[[File:EarthquakeBeachcomberdisassembled.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber proceeds within the Decepticon fortress...'' {{anchor|Page 14}}(>>PAGE_14>>)''' and makes it within just as the doors close behind him. But as he rushes into the fortress, he finds Buzzsaw waiting for him! In an instant, Beachcomber is torn to pieces by the Decepticon! Then [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] emerges from the shadows, and further dismantles the Autobot. He soon finds Beachcomber’s memory circuits, and then carries what is left of the Autobot to Megatron. After extracting all the useful information they can find from Beachcomber’s mind, the Decepticons hatch a new plan… {{anchor|Page 19}}'''(PAGE_19)''' Megatron calls for [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] and [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] and instructs them to rebuild Beachcomber, with one modification. He hands the Constructicon two nearly identical chips; one being the Autobot’s original mind, the other a "Destructicon" chip. Megatron explains that the alternate chip will render Beachcomber the perfect undercover agent. However, when the time comes to reinsert Beachcomber’s memory chip, the bungling Constructicons mistakenly put the original one back in! Later, Beachcomber returns to Autobot headquarters, and informs Optimus of all that has transpired. Beachcomber also tells Optimus of all the plans that Megatron shared with him! With Beachcomber as the perfect reverse-double-agent, the Autobots are sure to defeat the Decepticons quickly!

::'''THE END'''
{{-}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters|nonumbering=true
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]]
* [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]]
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]]
* [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]]
* [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]]
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]
* [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]
* [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]]
* [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]]

|c2=
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]]
* [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]]
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]]
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]]
* [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]

|c3=
* [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]]
* [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster]]
* [[Jesse (G1)|Jessie]]
* [[Mayor Todd]]
}}

==Notes==
* Ann Matthews is a pseudonym of Ann M. Martin, who is known for creating ''{{w|The Baby-Sitters Club}}'' series.
* One of the vanishingly few appearances of Jesse (here spelled "Jessie") outside of Marvel Comics.
* Beachcomber is armed with a gun that shoots bullets. It's not especially effective, at least against the [[conehead]]s.
**Though they're never depicted as coneheads here, thanks to being toy/box-art based.
* Beachcomber's brain functions involve "memory tape". That's apparently standard for this micro-continuity-nexus, since Dirge is able to replay it (exactly how isn't explained; Soundwave and the cassettes aren't around) to gather intel after disassembling him. Dirge specifically replays "the last 15 minutes", implying he considers that the equivalent of Transformer short-term memory. This also implies that a Transformer's brain is much larger here than in most major continuities.
* Ratchet and Laserbeak are mentioned by other characters, but don't appear in a story path proper.
* This book was available individually, or as part of a six-book box set with the other five "pre-Movie era" books in the series.
===Errors===
* On page 62, there is a typo; "Quick" is mispelt as "Ouick."

==External links==
*[http://www.gamebooks.org/show_item.php?id=1147 Earthquake on Demian's Gamebook Web Page]

*[https://toyhax.com/FYF/ Screenshot of Ann M. Martin confirming that she wrote this issue]
[[Category:Generation 1 multipath adventures]]

Earthquake (book)

2024-11-23T18:12:03Z

Bigmanhelperhouseman: /* Synopsis */

{{Disambig3|earthquake}}
{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[Find Your Fate Junior]] #4
|prev=Attack of the Insecticons
|next=Desert Flight
|title="Earthquake"
|image=Earthquake fyf.jpg
|caption=I AM NOT A SHARK! I AM A MAN!
|publisher=[[Ballantine Books]]
|imprint=[[Find Your Fate Junior]]
|date=1986
|writer=[[Ann Matthews]]
|illustrator=[[William Schmidt]] (interior pencils and cover painting)
|pagecount=73
|ISBN=ISBN 9780345330710 ISBN 0-345-33071-4
}}
[[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] discovers a hidden [[Decepticon]] [[Destruction Beam#hidden fortress|base]], from which they are planning to destroy the nearby [[Center City]], a dry run at destroying all the world's capitals.

==Synopsis==
{{anchor|Page 1}}'''(PAGE_1)''' The Autobots lounge around their secret headquarters near Center City, Oregon, enjoying a day with no sign of Decepticon activity. [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus]] strikes up a conversation with the rest of the Autobots to remark on their good fortune. [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] reads a book, [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] is busy polishing himself, and [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] uses "special circuitry-building equipment" to work out. [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]], [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] and [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] join in on the conversation to discuss the opposing faction. {{anchor|Page 2}}'''(PAGE_2)''' Beachcomber waxes on about wanting a day to enjoy the great outdoors, so Optimus grants him a leave of absence. The Autobot dune buggy drive peacefully into the countryside, until the earth begins to shudder beneath his wheels. {{anchor|Page 3}}'''(PAGE_3)''' Frantically searching for the disturbance’s source, Beachcomber soon spots the Decepticon [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] practicing his seismic abilities. After a few more small tremors, Rumble appears pleased with himself and saunters off towards a cliff face. Following from a safe distance, Beachcomber witnesses the cliff opening up to allow Rumble into a secret Decepticon base. Beachcomber wants to report his ridings back to Optimus, but is afraid he might not be able to find his way back here once he leaves.

'''''Should Beachcomber hurry back to Autobot headquarters anyways?'' (>>[[#Page 5|PAGE_5]]>>)'''

'''''Should Beachcomber attempt to infiltrate the Decepticon fortress by himself?'' (>>[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]>>)'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber reports back to Autobot headquarters...'' {{anchor|Page 5}}(>>PAGE_5>>)''' after attempting to memorize every feature on the cliffside so as to recognize it later. Once Optimus has been informed on Beachcomber’s discovery, he sends him back, along with Powerglide and [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] to investigate the secret Decepticon base. {{anchor|Page 6}}'''(PAGE_6)''' Once they have found their way back to the location in question, the three Autobots puzzle over how to infiltrate the Decepticon fortress.

:'''''Should they attempt to enter through the same door Rumble disappeared through, and risk being easily detected by their foes?'' (>>[[#Page 10|PAGE_10]]>>)'''

:'''''Should they attempt to find another entrance with Beachcomber’s sensors, despite that it might waste precious time?'' (>>[[#Page 8|PAGE_8]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6|PAGE_6]]<<)''' '''''Powerglide, Beachcomber and Windcharger attempt to enter the Decepticon base through the cliffside… ''{{anchor|Page 10}}(>>PAGE_10>>)''' ...with Windcharger tempting his luck first. As he walks up to the cliffside, the concealed door open up for him automatically… Only to slam shut on him, badly damaging the Autobot. The doors open up again, and the Decepticons spill out of their fortress. Thinking fast, Beachcomber shouts to Powerglide that he hopes that Rumble will not start another quake. His attempt at reverse psychology works, as Rumble laughs at the Autobots before doing just that. Rumble’s quake causes the Decepticon fortress to crumble, burying the Decepticons in a cave-in, while Beachcomber and Powerglide dash out of the quake’s range. The two of them plan to return to the ruins once the dust has settles, so to retrieve Windcharger. [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] will be able to fix him up, and the Autobots won’t have to worry about the Decepticons for a while longer.

::'''THE END'''

[[File:EarthquakePowerglideBeahccomberWindcharger.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6|PAGE_6]]<<)''' '''''Powerglide, Beachcomber and Windcharger search for another way into the Decepticon fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 8}}(>>PAGE_8>>)''' soon finding a narrow passageway in the cliff hidden by bushes and scrub brush. {{anchor|Page 64}}'''(PAGE_64)''' At the end of the rocky passageway the Autobots discover a storage room. At the far end of it are two exits. One leads to another rocky passage just like the one the Autobots have just emerged from. The other is blocked by a door with a complicated lock. The lock proves to be a small deterrent, as Beachcomber manages to quickly disable it. Opening the door reveals a brightly lit corridor, which Powerglide insists on investigating. Windcharger, however, insists on going into the rocky passage instead. It looks like the team is splitting up.

::'''''Should Beachcomber accompany Windcharger into the rocky passage?'' (>>[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber accompany Powerglide into the brightly-lit corridor?'' (>>[[#Page 20|PAGE_20]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber set off on his own to explore another region of the fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 60|PAGE_60]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber accompanies Windcharger down the rocky passage...'' {{anchor|Page 11}}(>>PAGE_11>>)''' …soon finding their path blocked by a heavy stone doorway. The two Autobots hear faint Decepticon voices from beyond the door, but cannot tell whether they are coming from directly behind the door, or from farther within the fortress. Windcharger is eager to burst through the door and take the Decepticons by surprise. The hesitant Beachcomber would prefer to return to the storage room and seek another more secretive way into the fortress.

:::'''''Should Beachcomber return to the storage room?'' (>>[[#Page 13|PAGE_13]]>>)'''

:::'''''Should Beachcomber remain with Windcharger?'' (>>[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber leaves Windcharger to return to the storage room.'' {{anchor|Page 13}}(>>PAGE_13>>)''' But Beachcomber is scared of exploring the fortress by himself. Hoping to catch up with Powerglide, he heads back towards the brightly lit corridor. The two Autobots reunite, and commence to explore the fortress carefully. '''(>>[[#Page 20|PAGE_20]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]] OR [[#Page 13|PAGE_13]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber and Powerglide explore the corridor...'' {{anchor|Page 20}}(>>PAGE_20>>)''' pausing at each doorway to listen. Finding everything strangely silent, Beachcomber begins to question wether the element of surprise is truly on their side. But Decepticons voices become audible as they duo reach the end of the corridor. Beachcomber and Powerglide pause to listen. {{anchor|Page 16}}'''(PAGE_16)''' They overhear [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] discussing his plan with [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]. The Decepticon leader plans to wipe humanity off the face of the Earth with the aid of the "[[Destruction Beam]]" and Rumble’s earthquake-inducing abilities; the beam will create a fault line in an area, which will allow Rumble to cause massive destruction within a disaster radius. Once humanity is eradicated, the entire planet with be transformed into a massive laboratory. Afterwards, the Decepticons will return to Cybertron to reclaim as their own. The two Autobots further learn that Center City, the testing ground for this plot, will be reached by the Destruction Beam in one hour, fifty-two minutes, and thirty-seven seconds. {{anchor|Page 17}}'''(PAGE_17)''' Shocked by this discovery, Powerglide and Beachcomber race back to the fortress’s secret entrance, finding Windcharger already there. All three transform and return to Autobot headquarters. Once Optimus is informed of Megatron’s plan, the Autobots decide to split up into two groups. One will be the lead group, formed of the more powerful Autobots, and the other a smaller secondary group. But which group should be sent at which location?

::::'''''Send the lead group be sent to the fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 68|PAGE_68]]>>)'''

::::'''''Should the lead group be sent to Center City?'' (>>[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots’ lead team is sent to the Decepticons’ fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 68}}(>>PAGE_68>>)''' Amongst them is Optimus, Cosmos, Beachcomber, Brawn and [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]. Beachcomber locates the front door to the Decepticons’ fortress, and Brawn prevents them from closing while the Autobots storm the base. Though the Decepticons attempt to counter-attack, the Autobots disable them one by one. Optimus manages to get a hold of Megatron, and forces the Decepticon leader to guide him towards the Decepticons’ lab at gun-point. Beachcomber and Inferno follow them, while the battle continues to rage on behind them. {{anchor|Page 30}}'''(PAGE_30)''' Once inside the lab, Megatron shows them a monitor displaying the Destruction beam’s path towards Central City. Though Megatron ceases to cooperate when Optimus orders him to stop the beam from reaching its target, Beachcomber spots a button that causes the laser to dispel. Optimus declares: "Central City is safe, and the Decepticons are going down in history as a bunch of losers!" before sending the Destruction Beam machine to "robot heaven." The Autobots leave the fortress with Megatron as their prisoner of war, and the remaining Decepticons permanently maimed. The Autobots are later forced to release Megatron, however, in exchange with the safe release of the Autobots that were defeated in Central City while Optimus led the raid on the Decepticon base. Though Optimus knows the Decepticons are bound to brew more trouble, for the moment being he is happy to relax and recharge.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots’ lead team is sent to Center City.'' {{anchor|Page 36}}(>>PAGE_36>>)''' But they must be careful not to surpass the speed limit by too much, lest they bring attention to themselves. Accordingly, Cosmos hides in Optimus Prime’s trailer as they head down the highway. But Cosmos is displeased with this turn of events, and complains that if he can’t even be out in the open while the Autobots travel down a deserted road, for fear of instilling panic in the humans, how will he manage to be of any use once they reach Central City. Optimus considers Cosmos argument, and pulls over to…

:::::'''''Send Cosmos back to the Decepticon fortress to help the secondary team?'' (>>[[#Page 31|PAGE_31]]>>)'''

:::::'''''Assert that Cosmos better stay with the main group?'' (>>[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeCosmosspies.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]<<)''' '''''Cosmos is sent to help out the secondary team at the Decepticon fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 31}}(>>PAGE_31>>)''' Using his communicator to ask [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] for directions, he soon happens upon the cliff concealing the Decepticon base. The base’s doors are wide open and the smaller Autobot team is nowhere to be seen, so Cosmos decides to head into the gaping doorway. He pauses before doing so, attempting to reach Smokescreen once again over the communicate to no avail. Cautiously stepping inside, Cosmos hears a door creak open… {{anchor|Page 28}}'''(PAGE_28)''' Hearing voices coming from beyond the creaking door, he ventures within and hides behind a large machine. He beholds [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and Soundwave plotting together. Starscream tells Soundwave of how Megatron has become careless as of late, even forgetting to change the coded lock on his personal chambers. Now Starscream knows how to get in, and exposits how it would be a simple matter for him and Soundwave to lie in wait in their leader’s quarters, ready to ambush when he returns. Soundwave agrees, noting how he could stun their leader with his [[Gamma ray]] and they could usurp Megatron’s leadership of the Decepticons. Having heard enough, Cosmos begins to sneak out of the room, only to bump into Megatron himself. But before Megatron has a chance to attack, Cosmos tells him that he has information which might interest him. Does Megatron...

::::::'''''Hear Cosmos out?'' (>>[[#Page 4|PAGE_4]]>>)'''

::::::'''''Disregard what the Autobot has to say?'' (>>[[#Page 39|PAGE_39]]>>)'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 28|PAGE_28]]<<)''' '''''Megatron pauses to listen to what Cosmos has to say.'' {{anchor|Page 4}}(>>PAGE_4>>)''' Cosmos divulges what he has just heard Starscream and Soundwave say, being sure to put extra drama where it suits him. Megatron is infuriated at these revelations, and strides into the generator room to deal with the traitors. Cosmos hears the entire fortress tremble as Megatron fires his [[Fusion cannon]], and quickly hides when more Decepticons rush by him towards Megatron. Soon, two groups rally in the generator room where Megatron stands, one loyal to Megatron, the other loyal to Soundwave and Starscream. As Cosmos takes off to avoid being caught in the middle of the Decepticon mutiny, he bumps into Sunstreaker, who informs Cosmos that the rest of them have found the Decepticons’ lab. {{anchor|Page 33}}'''(PAGE_33)''' Joining Inferno before the Destruction Beam machine, Cosmos tells the others of what is taking place between Decepticon ranks, and is eager to finish the Decepticons off. But Inferno advises against the lot of them staying, and soon they are all fleeing away from the fortress. Suddenly, the fortress is caught in an enormous explosion, obliterating it. Inferno tells the others that they not only succeeded in halting the Destruction Beam's progress towards Center City, but they also redirected it to return to its source. The humans never need fear the Decepticons ever again!

:::::::'''THE END'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 28|PAGE_28]]<<)''' '''''Megatron ignores Cosmos’s pleas...'' {{anchor|Page 39}}(>>PAGE_39>>)''' and informs him nothing would dissuade him from blasting the little Autobot. Pressing an alarm on the wall, Megatron calls to him the rest of the Decepticons. Cosmos’s communicator remains silent as well. All seems lost when Cosmos spots [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] and half of the secondary team behind him, running down the hallway towards the Decepticons. The other half of the team is rushing down the corridor’s opposite end, surrounding the Decepticons. Though the Autobots want to end the battle quickly to deal with the Destruction Beam, they are forced to stay and fight until the last Decepticon falls. Just then, an ear-shattering roar is emanates down the fortress’s corridors… {{anchor|Page 67}}'''(PAGE_67)''' Rushing outdoors, the Autobots witness a cloud of dust rising from Center City’s remains. Though the Autobots on location fought bravely, once the Destruction Beam reached its target, there was nothing that could stop Rumble from making the city collapse underground. The rest of the Autobots surely perished during their mission. Cosmos and company return within the Decepticon base to destroy the lab therein, but bemoan their pyrrhic victory. At least several powerful enemies have been disposed of, and Megatron no longer has a lab to aid in his attempts at conquest. But the war isn’t over, it’s just beginning.

:::::::'''THE END'''

::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]<<)''' '''''Optimus assures Cosmos that he should stay with the Autobots’ main team.'' {{anchor|Page 37}}(>>PAGE_37>>)''' The Autobots continue towards Center City, only taking a short detour to pick up [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]], to act as medium between themselves and the humans. Optimus informs Sparkplug about what is going on, and before the Autobots enter Center City, asks Sparkplug which course of action would be wiser to take:

::::::'''''Enter Center City as robots, risking spooking the humans into a panic?'' (>>[[#Page 34|PAGE_34]]>>)'''

::::::'''''Enter Center City as vehicles, limiting the Autobots’ combat effectiveness?'' (>>[[#Page 51|PAGE_51]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeAutobotspanickingtownfolk.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]<<)''' '''''Sparkplug advises the Autobots to enter Central City in their robot modes.'' {{anchor|Page 34}}(>>PAGE_34>>)''' Optimus and his troops enter Center City ignoring the humans’ reactions to their appearance, as they concentrate on spotting any Decepticons in the area. When they fail to see any of their enemies, Optimus decides to speak to the city’s mayor and implore him to evacuate the city. But before they reach City Hall, policemen begin to announce that Center City is under siege by giant robots and that the citizens need to find shelter. {{anchor|Page 63}}'''(PAGE_63)''' Although at first Optimus assumes that the Decepticons are the robots are the ones causing the panic, Cosmos soon figures that the robots "attacking" the city are themselves. The humans panic and run uselessly around in the streets, instead of finding shelter as they were advised. It would be impossible to find the mayor in all of this confusion now. {{anchor|Page 42}}'''(PAGE_42)''' In an attempt to appease the humans, the Autobots transform back into vehicle mode. But they’ve run out of time. The Destruction Beam hits nearby, prompting Rumble to come out of hiding and begin using his seismic abilities in the middle of the street. The resulting fissures swallow up people, cars, streets and buildings. Five Autobots are swallowed up by a gaping chasm that appears suddenly. Then [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] appears overhead, signalling that the Autobots failed to deal with the rest of the Decepticons at the fortress. The earthquakes continue, as the rest of the city, and the last of the Autobots fall into the abyss. After the destruction comes to a halt, Megatron comes forth to inspect his handiwork. With the Autobots out of commission, the Earth is about to become a very unpleasant place for humans.

:::::::'''THE END'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]<<)''' '''''Sparkplug advises the Autobots to enter Center City in their vehicle modes.'' {{anchor|Page 51}}(>>PAGE_51>>)''' Though Beachcomber doubts they will be able to accomplish much in their vehicle modes, Sparkplug claims otherwise. Being an old friend of the Mayor’s he will seek audience with him, and convince him to evacuate the city. As for the means of the evacuation, it is the Autobots that will provide it. Though they will need to make several trips, the Autobots will ferry the humans out of the city in their vehicle modes. {{anchor|Page 43}}'''(PAGE_43)''' Once inside City Hall, Sparkplug speaks urgently with Mayor Todd. He convinces the mayor that Center City is right on a fault line, and due for an earthquake at any moment. Soon, every radio station in town is transmitting the evacuation plan to Center City’s residents, and everyone is evacuated in an orderly fashion. Meanwhile, Cosmos scouts high above, on the look-out for approaching Decepticons. As Optimus unloads his last batch at a nearby campsite, Cosmos radios him, letting him know that the Decepticons are approaching. {{anchor|Page 44}}'''(PAGE_44)''' Soon, the Destruction Beams courses down, causing a fault in the city’s foundation. Knowing that this means that the secondary team failed in their objective, the Autobots drive into the city in the hopes of stopping Rumble from completing his mission. {{anchor|Page 72}}'''(PAGE_72)''' The first Decepticons they encounter are Rumble and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]. They are quickly picked off by Optimus before more Decepticons arrive. One by one, the Decepticons are downed by the Autobots as they arrive in Center City. As the Decepticons are caught unawares, the battle is won with ease. Once the earthquake is avoided, the Autobots set out for the Decepticons’ fortress, passing by the campground where they dropped off the city’s residents. The humans see the Autobots in their robot modes, but are unafraid, having seen the Autobots’ heroic deeds. They cheer the Autobots on as they head towards the fortress to end the Decepticons once and for all!

:::::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber remains with Windcharger.'' {{anchor|Page 24}}(>>PAGE_24>>)''' Though Windcharger is eager to bust down the door with his magnetic powers, Beachcomber points out a string of numbers written out on a lighted panel above the door:
::::16/21/19/8–18/5/4/—2/21/20/20/15/14
::::Beachcomber surmises that it is a code, and by cracking it they’ll be able to make it through the door. Windcharger admits he’s not great a cracking codes, however. Can [[you]] help them crack it?

::::'''''Yes.'' (>>[[#Page 18|PAGE_18]]>>)'''

::::'''''No.'' (>>[[#Page 65|PAGE_65]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots crack the code.'' {{anchor|Page 18}}(>>PAGE_18>>)''' With the puzzle solved, the Autobots open the door {{anchor|Page 25}}'''(PAGE_25)''' and step forth into an elaborate spy station. But the monitors within the room display other rooms within the Decepticons’ fortress. Windcharger reasons that Megatron uses this room to spy on his own troops. Before they investigate further, they hear footstep approaching and hide a bank of computer screens. {{anchor|Page 12}}'''(PAGE_12)''' From their hiding spot, they hear [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] announce that the "Destruction Beam" has just left the lab. Megatron is pleased at the news, and gloats that the Autobots will be unable to stop his plan. Megatron then enters the room alone, shutting the door behind him. Immediately, Windcharger and Beachcomber jump the Decepticon leader, the former disarming him with his magnetic powers. Beachcomber bluffs that the entire fortress is surrounded. He warns Megatron that the entire fortress will be destroyed with them inside unless Megatron orders his troops to surrender. Believing he has no choice, Megatron does so and agrees to show the Autobots where his lab containing the Destruction Beam machine is located. While Windcharger keeps watch over Megatron, Beachcomber quietly sends a message to Optimus for him to send the Autobots over. Center City still stands, but the Decepticons have fallen.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots are unable to solve the code.'' {{anchor|Page 65}}(>>PAGE_65>>)''' Windcharger impatiently attempts to down the door with his magnetic powers instead, but only manages to make a racket. The two of them flee, but are spotted by Megatron who peers through the door just as they exit the passage. The Decepticon leader retreats back into his spy room, and takes a shortcut to the storage room, soon appearing before the two startled Autobots in his weapon form. {{anchor|Page 66}}'''(PAGE_66)''' The nuclear-charged fusion cannon blasts Windcharger and Beachcomber, leaving little remains in his shot’s wake. Powerglide does not fare much better, as he is soon captured while wandering around the fortress, and reprogrammed to lead the Decepticons back to the Autobots’ headquarters. The Autobots are caught off-guard by the attack, and though they fight well, soon only Optimus Prime remains. Megatron informs his foe that he has no plans to destroy him. Merely… alter him, so that he will become his newest weapon and ally. With his help, Megatron plans to destroy all of Earth’s cities. But Optimus would rather die than join the Decepticons, and with a last effort, initiates the self-destruct sequence for the Autobots’ base. The large explosion annihilates Optimus and all the Decepticons, bringing a sudden end to their war.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber sets out to explore the fortress on his own...'' {{anchor|Page 60}}(>>PAGE_60>>)''' as he watches Powerglide charge recklessly down the lit corridor and Windcharger head back for the rocky passage. He looks around to see nothing but closed doors and more empty corridors. Opening a door, he spots [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] on the other side, and quickly fires at the Decepticon. But Dirge dodges his shot with ease, and stuns Beachcomber with a [[Concussion weapon|concussion missile]].Dirge then proceeds to dismember Beachcomber, and extract the last fifteen minutes of footage from the Autobot’s memory tape. Learning that Powerglide and Windcharger are also in the vicinity, Dirge radios Megatron, who in turn orders the Decepticons to find the other intruders. {{anchor|Page 38}}'''(PAGE_38)''' Powerglide and Windcharger are soon captured and brought before Megatron. After taunting them, Megatron order [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] to dispose of them in whatever gruesome manner he chooses. Then, taking Beachcomber’s communicator, he disguises his voice and sends a request for back-up to Autobot headquarters. Optimus responds quickly, only for him and his troops to be mowed down by the Decepticons. With the Autobots destroyed, nothing can stop the Decepticons from subjugating the Earth.

:::'''THE END'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber decides to infiltrate the Decepticons’ fortress by himself...'' {{anchor|Page 62}}(>>PAGE_62>>)''' and cautiously steps towards the cliffside. At first he is unsure whether or not the doors will open for him. But as soon as he is in position, the automated doors slide open. Within the fortress, Beachcomber hears a humming sound and spots a dim light in the otherwise dark room. Just as he is enters, he hears humans talking nearby. He wonders if there could possibly be humans working in league with the Decepticons? As he wonders whether or not he should investigate the human voices, the doors to the fortress begin to close. They might not open for him again if he leaves. What to do?

:'''''Investigate the human voices?'' (>>[[#Page 21|PAGE_21]]>>)'''

:'''''Proceed within the Decepticon fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 14|PAGE_14]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber decides to investigate the human voices...'' {{anchor|Page 21}}(>>PAGE_21>>)''' figuring that if the doors opened for him once, they’ll do so again. Transforming into dune buggy mode, he drives towards the human voices, and encounters [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster]] and [[Jesse (G1)|Jessie]]! Buster recognizes Beachcomber despite the Autobot being in vehicle mode, and exclaims that he’s happy to see him. Jessie explains that they were exploring when they discovered the Decepticons’ fortress. Buster elaborates that they discovered a secret passage that lead within, and overheard Megatron explaining to his troops how he plans to take over the world. {{anchor|Page 22}}'''(PAGE_22)''' The Decepticons’ plan involves [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] firing the "Destruction Beam" from a lab hidden in the cliff. Afterwards, the Decepticons will employ Rumble’s seismic abilities to enlarge to fissure that the beam will create, causing a massive earthquake. Jessie further explains the beam will be tested on Center City in about an hour and a half. With this information, Beachcomber tells the two humans to hop in so he can drive them back to Autobot headquarters. But soon, Ramjet in vehicle mode appears overhead and starts attacking Beachcomber. Ramjet then transforms and quickly scoops up Jessie, flying off with her as a hostage. Beachcomber wants to proceed to Autobot headquarters to get help, but Buster pleads for him to go after Ramjet and rescue Jessie.

::'''''Should Beachcomber return to the Decepticon fortress and attempt to rescue Jessie?'' (>>[[#Page 26|PAGE_26]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber continue back to the Autobots’ base and ask for help?'' (>>[[#Page 32|PAGE_32]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''Buster convinces Beachcomber to go after Jessie.'' {{anchor|Page 26}}(>>PAGE_26>>)''' Beachcomber reasons that they wouldn’t be able to reach Autobot headquarters and return in an hour-and-a-half anyways. But he explains to Buster that he can’t take the fortress’s main entrance, as the Decepticons will now be expecting them. Buster reassures Beachcomber that he found the secret entrance to the Decepticons’ base once, and he’ll do so again. Once before the secret entrance, Beachcomber transforms. {{anchor|Page 27}}'''(PAGE_27)''' Venturing within, the two of them soon hear Decepticon voices, along with Jessie’s. Buster insists they follow the voices, but Beachcomber would rather hide.

:::'''''Follow the voices?'' (>>[[#Page 46|PAGE_46]]>>)'''

:::'''''Find a hiding place?'' (>>[[#Page 49|PAGE_49]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeJessieKidnapped.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 27|PAGE_27]]<<)''' '''''At Buster’s insistance, Beachcomber agrees to follow the Decepticon voices.'' {{anchor|Page 46}}(>>PAGE_46>>)''' They soon spot Soundwave and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] locking Jessie away in a dark cell. Once the Decepticons leave, Buster and Beachcomber come out of hiding. {{anchor|Page 70}}'''(PAGE_70)''' Beachcomber and Buster reassure Jessie that they will get her out, and use a miniature laser from Beachcomber’s armament to cut open a hole in the solid steel door to Jessie’s cell. Once freed, Jessie is pleased to announce she has learned that the controls for the Destruction Beam are nearby. She is keen on finding them and save Center City. But despite their best efforts, the three of them cannot find the lab in the maze-like corridors. Pulling the humans aside, Beachcomber explains that they’re better off getting help than running around fruitlessly. {{anchor|Page 48}}'''(PAGE_48)''' Soon they are back at Autobot headquarters, where Mirage devises a plan. Beachcomber and Mirage return to the fortress, and use the secret entrance to sneak inside once more. Once there, they use Mirage’s holographic abilities to trick a passing Buzzsaw into thinking that the fortress is overrun with Autobots. After pushing an alarm, Buzzsaw rushes to the lab to guard it, but is followed by the two Autobots. Now having reached their target, the Autobots overpower Buzzsaw and destroy the lab, along with the Destruction Beam machine. The deed accomplish, the two Autobots rush outside to safety while the Decepticons scramble to defend themselves an enemy army that isn’t there.

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 27|PAGE_27]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber convinces Buster that they should hide...'' {{anchor|Page 49}}(>>PAGE_49>>)''' …and the voices soon fade into the distance. But once they are alone, both Beachcomber and Buster come to realize that they have no plan to get themselves out of this situation. Nonetheless, Beachcomber tells Buster that if they work together, they will be able to figure something out. {{anchor|Page 56}}'''(PAGE_56)''' Creeping out of their hiding place, Buster opens a nearby door slowly, only to be met by Ramjet once again. Having the duo cornered, Ramjet advances menacingly onto them. But Beachcomber tricks the dim-witted Decepticon into looking away by telling Buster other Autobots are coming down the corridor now. Once Ramjet is distracted, Beachcomber shoves his way past the Decepticon, and races off with Buster. {{anchor|Page 40}}'''(PAGE_40)''' But neither Buster or Beachcomber can find their way in the Decepticons’ maze-like fortress, and soon Megatron, Dirge, Starscream and Ramjet are all bearing down upon them. Taking the Autobot and the human prisoners, Megatron escorts the pair at gun-point to his laboratory. {{anchor|Page 7}}'''(PAGE_7)''' Megatron forces the two of them to watch a monitor displaying the beam’s progress as it hits Center City, signalling its doom. Megatron gloats of his victory before he pulls his trigger, firing upon his helpless prisoners.

::::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber drives back to Autobot base, despite Buster’s protests.'' {{anchor|Page 32}}(>>PAGE_32>>)''' Beachcomber explains that the Decepticons are unlikely to harm Jessie, as she is far more useful to them alive than dead, though Buster is still sour towards Beachcomber for his decision. Once at their headquarters, Beachcomber explains what has taken place to the Autobots, provoking a particularly strong emotional response from Brawn. Optimus leads over two-dozen Autobots back to the hills where the Decepticons’ secret fortress is located. {{anchor|Page 45}}'''(PAGE_45)''' Before reaching their destination, Optimus explains two possible course of action; either storm the front entrance by force, or sneak into the base using the secret entrance Buster and Jessie found. [Choose a number between one and ten.]

:::'''''If you chose an even number, go to:'' (>>[[#Page 57|PAGE_57]]>>)'''

:::'''''If you chose an odd number, go to:'' (>>[[#Page 54|PAGE_54]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 45|PAGE_45]]<<)''' '''''[You chose an even number]'' {{anchor|Page 57}}(>>PAGE_57>>)''' The Autobots choose to storm the fortress through the front door. But just as Beachcomber steps before the cliffside and the doors slide open, he hesitates. Turning back, he whines to Optimus Prime that they shouldn’t fight, and that violence only begets more violence. Optimus groans at Beachcomber’s inopportune timing, but before he can issue another order, Megatron’s voice booms through the doorway. He claims that the Autobots are within the sights of an enormous Decepticon arsenal! {{anchor|Page 58}}'''(PAGE_58)''' But the Autobots have no intention of surrendering, and fight valiantly. Unfortunately, the Decepticons are on familiar turf, and soon either slay or take prisoner all of the Autobots. Basking in his victory, Megatron invites the rest of the Decepticons to come observe the destruction of Center City. He then explains to his troops that this is only the beginning. Soon, every city on Earth will fall the Destruction Beam!

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 45|PAGE_45]]<<)''' '''''[You chose an odd number]'' {{anchor|Page 54}}(>>PAGE_54>>)''' The Autobots choose a stealthier approach, and let Buster lead them to the secret entrance. Once inside, Optimus instructs to attack any Decepticons they see, save Megatron, who he wants captured alive. The Autobots break up into small groups and start storming the entire fortress. One of these groups, composed of Sunstreaker, Beachcomber, Brawn, Buster and lead by Optimus himself soon find themselves in a lighted hallway lined with locked doors on either side. {{anchor|Page 71}}'''(PAGE_71)''' Before they proceed, Optimus explains that they need to focus their efforts on finding the Decepticons’ lab first. They are then accosted by Buzzsaw, [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] and Ramjet. After a brief scuffle, the Decepticons are incapacitated, but so is Sunstreaker. Optimus sadly reasons that they need to leave him behind for now, and the squadron continues to search for the lab. They come to a branch in the hallway, and must choose to go either left or right. [You must flip a coin]

::::'''If the coin comes up heads, the Autobots take the right passageway.'' (>>[[#Page 55|PAGE_55]]>>)'''

::::'''If the coin comes up tails, the Autobots take the left passageway.'' (>>[[#Page 52|PAGE_52]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 71|PAGE_71]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots take the right passageway...'' {{anchor|Page 55}}(>>PAGE_55>>)''' and begin heading down a corridor that seems to lead nowhere. Though there are no doors for a long stretch of the corridor, the Autobots begin to hear a faint voice as they proceed down the hallway. It’s Jessie! Finally finding themselves before a large door, Optimus breaks it down freeing the human from Decepticon captivity. Jessie tumbles into Buster’s arms, and informs the Autobots that she knows where the lab is! She leads the squad to a small red door, and tells them the controls to the Destruction Beam are within. But when the Autobots bust down the door, they find themselves surrounded by Decepticons! Megatron congratulate on her work! {{anchor|Page 50}}'''(PAGE_50)''' Jessie has been brainwashed by the Decepticons, and lead them into a trap, all according to Megatron’s plan! Taking away the Autobots’ communicators, Megatron sends Jessie out again to lure more Autobots into his trap. All the while, Optimus observes through a monitor the Destruction Beam coming into contact with Center City. Megatron takes note of this, and proudly announces that Rumble will soon be on location to finish the city in an earthquake. Megatron then orders Starscream to lock-up the Autobots. At least they aren’t being deactivated. Maybe Optimus will be able to formulate a plan? If not, this is truly…

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 71|PAGE_71]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots take the left passageway...'' {{anchor|Page 52}}(>>PAGE_52>>)''' and soon come upon a huge door marked "LAB." A precocious Beachcomber uses his sensors to detect what awaits them behind the door. He discovers that beyond the doorway, there is nothing. A drop of at least 100 feet. A trap. Buster then spots another door hidden in the shadows, which Optimus surmises is probably the true laboratory. Calling for six more Autobots as back up first, then blasts open the hidden door. As Optimus had guessed, this is the real lab! Brawn quickly dispatches the three Decepticons within. Then, Megatron strides in, only to encounter the wrong end of Optimus Prime’s laser rifle. Optimus instructs Megatron not to move, lest the Decepticon leader wishes to be blown to bits. {{anchor|Page 59}}'''(PAGE_59)''' Optimus demands to know how to halt the Destruction Beam’s progress. Megatron points him to a red button, but Optimus catches Megatron smiling just as he is about to push it. Optimus guesses that the button would most likely activate a self-destruct sequence, and demands once more how to stop the Destruction Beam. Megatron in turn screams that he will never give Optimus that information. But Megatron betrays his intentions once more, as Optimus notices the Decepticon is staring towards a lever across the room. Optimus instructs to pull the lever, and the beam is finally disarmed. Hours later, the Decepticons have all been defeated and deactivated, and Jessie has been rescued. The Autobots later celebrate by guzzling a few quarts of fine-grade [[oil]]. Buster and Jessie enjoy super-fudge ice cream sundaes instead.

:::::'''THE END'''

[[File:EarthquakeBeachcomberdisassembled.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber proceeds within the Decepticon fortress...'' {{anchor|Page 14}}(>>PAGE_14>>)''' and makes it within just as the doors close behind him. But as he rushes into the fortress, he finds Buzzsaw waiting for him! In an instant, Beachcomber is torn to pieces by the Decepticon! Then [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] emerges from the shadows, and further dismantles the Autobot. He soon finds Beachcomber’s memory circuits, and then carries what is left of the Autobot to Megatron. After extracting all the useful information they can find from Beachcomber’s mind, the Decepticons hatch a new plan… {{anchor|Page 19}}'''(PAGE_19)''' Megatron calls for [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] and [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] and instructs them to rebuild Beachcomber, with one modification. He hands the Constructicon two nearly identical chips; one being the Autobot’s original mind, the other a "Destructicon" chip. Megatron explains that the alternate chip will render Beachcomber the perfect undercover agent. However, when the time comes to reinsert Beachcomber’s memory chip, the bungling Constructicons mistakenly put the original one back in! Later, Beachcomber returns to Autobot headquarters, and informs Optimus of all that has transpired. Beachcomber also tells Optimus of all the plans that Megatron shared with him! With Beachcomber as the perfect reverse-double-agent, the Autobots are sure to defeat the Decepticons quickly!

::'''THE END'''
{{-}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters|nonumbering=true
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]]
* [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]]
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]]
* [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]]
* [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]]
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]
* [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]
* [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]]
* [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]]

|c2=
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]]
* [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]]
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]]
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]]
* [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]

|c3=
* [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]]
* [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster]]
* [[Jesse (G1)|Jessie]]
* [[Mayor Todd]]
}}

==Notes==
* Ann Matthews is a pseudonym of Ann M. Martin, who is known for creating ''{{w|The Baby-Sitters Club}}'' series.
* One of the vanishingly few appearances of Jesse (here spelled "Jessie") outside of Marvel Comics.
* Beachcomber is armed with a gun that shoots bullets. It's not especially effective, at least against the [[conehead]]s.
**Though they're never depicted as coneheads here, thanks to being toy/box-art based.
* Beachcomber's brain functions involve "memory tape". That's apparently standard for this micro-continuity-nexus, since Dirge is able to replay it (exactly how isn't explained; Soundwave and the cassettes aren't around) to gather intel after disassembling him. Dirge specifically replays "the last 15 minutes", implying he considers that the equivalent of Transformer short-term memory. This also implies that a Transformer's brain is much larger here than in most major continuities.
* Ratchet and Laserbeak are mentioned by other characters, but don't appear in a story path proper.
* This book was available individually, or as part of a six-book box set with the other five "pre-Movie era" books in the series.
===Errors===
* On page 62, there is a typo; "Quick" is mispelt as "Ouick."

==External links==
*[http://www.gamebooks.org/show_item.php?id=1147 Earthquake on Demian's Gamebook Web Page]

*[https://toyhax.com/FYF/ Screenshot of Ann M. Martin confirming that she wrote this issue]
[[Category:Generation 1 multipath adventures]]

Earthquake (book)

2024-11-23T18:09:22Z

Bigmanhelperhouseman: /* Synopsis */

{{Disambig3|earthquake}}
{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[Find Your Fate Junior]] #4
|prev=Attack of the Insecticons
|next=Desert Flight
|title="Earthquake"
|image=Earthquake fyf.jpg
|caption=I AM NOT A SHARK! I AM A MAN!
|publisher=[[Ballantine Books]]
|imprint=[[Find Your Fate Junior]]
|date=1986
|writer=[[Ann Matthews]]
|illustrator=[[William Schmidt]] (interior pencils and cover painting)
|pagecount=73
|ISBN=ISBN 9780345330710 ISBN 0-345-33071-4
}}
[[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] discovers a hidden [[Decepticon]] [[Destruction Beam#hidden fortress|base]], from which they are planning to destroy the nearby [[Center City]], a dry run at destroying all the world's capitals.

==Synopsis==
{{anchor|Page 1}}'''(PAGE_1)''' The Autobots lounge around their secret headquarters near Center City, Oregon, enjoying a day with no sign of Decepticon activity. [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus]] strikes up a conversation with the rest of the Autobots to remark on their good fortune. [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] reads a book, [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] is busy polishing himself, and [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] uses "special circuitry-building equipment" to work out. [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]], [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] and [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] join in on the conversation to discuss the opposing faction. {{anchor|Page 2}}'''(PAGE_2)''' Beachcomber waxes on about wanting a day to enjoy the great outdoors, so Optimus grants him a leave of absence. The Autobot dune buggy drive peacefully into the countryside, until the earth begins to shudder beneath his wheels. {{anchor|Page 3}}'''(PAGE_3)''' Frantically searching for the disturbance’s source, Beachcomber soon spots the Decepticon [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] practicing his seismic abilities. After a few more small tremors, Rumble appears pleased with himself and saunters off towards a cliff face. Following from a safe distance, Beachcomber witnesses the cliff opening up to allow Rumble into a secret Decepticon base. Beachcomber wants to report his ridings back to Optimus, but is afraid he might not be able to find his way back here once he leaves.

'''''Should Beachcomber hurry back to Autobot headquarters anyways?'' (>>[[#Page 5|PAGE_5]]>>)'''

'''''Should Beachcomber attempt to infiltrate the Decepticon fortress by himself?'' (>>[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]>>)'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber reports back to Autobot headquarters...'' {{anchor|Page 5}}(>>PAGE_5>>)''' after attempting to memorize every feature on the cliffside so as to recognize it later. Once Optimus has been informed on Beachcomber’s discovery, he sends him back, along with Powerglide and [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] to investigate the secret Decepticon base. {{anchor|Page 6}}'''(PAGE_6)''' Once they have found their way back to the location in question, the three Autobots puzzle over how to infiltrate the Decepticon fortress.

:'''''Should they attempt to enter through the same door Rumble disappeared through, and risk being easily detected by their foes?'' (>>[[#Page 10|PAGE_10]]>>)'''

:'''''Should they attempt to find another entrance with Beachcomber’s sensors, despite that it might waste precious time?'' (>>[[#Page 8|PAGE_8]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6|PAGE_6]]<<)''' '''''Powerglide, Beachcomber and Windcharger attempt to enter the Decepticon base through the cliffside… ''{{anchor|Page 10}}(>>PAGE_10>>)''' ...with Windcharger tempting his luck first. As he walks up to the cliffside, the concealed door open up for him automatically… Only to slam shut on him, badly damaging the Autobot. The doors open up again, and the Decepticons spill out of their fortress. Thinking fast, Beachcomber shouts to Powerglide that he hopes that Rumble will not start another quake. His attempt at reverse psychology works, as Rumble laughs at the Autobots before doing just that. Rumble’s quake causes the Decepticon fortress to crumble, burying the Decepticons in a cave-in, while Beachcomber and Powerglide dash out of the quake’s range. The two of them plan to return to the ruins once the dust has settles, so to retrieve Windcharger. [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] will be able to fix him up, and the Autobots won’t have to worry about the Decepticons for a while longer.

::'''THE END'''

[[File:EarthquakePowerglideBeahccomberWindcharger.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6|PAGE_6]]<<)''' '''''Powerglide, Beachcomber and Windcharger search for another way into the Decepticon fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 8}}(>>PAGE_8>>)''' soon finding a narrow passageway in the cliff hidden by bushes and scrub brush. {{anchor|Page 64}}'''(PAGE_64)''' At the end of the rocky passageway the Autobots discover a storage room. At the far end of it are two exits. One leads to another rocky passage just like the one the Autobots have just emerged from. The other is blocked by a door with a complicated lock. The lock proves to be a small deterrent, as Beachcomber manages to quickly disable it. Opening the door reveals a brightly lit corridor, which Powerglide insists on investigating. Windcharger, however, insists on going into the rocky passage instead. It looks like the team is splitting up.

::'''''Should Beachcomber accompany Windcharger into the rocky passage?'' (>>[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber accompany Powerglide into the brightly-lit corridor?'' (>>[[#Page 20|PAGE_20]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber set off on his own to explore another region of the fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 60|PAGE_60]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber accompanies Windcharger down the rocky passage...'' {{anchor|Page 11}}(>>PAGE_11>>)''' …soon finding their path blocked by a heavy stone doorway. The two Autobots hear faint Decepticon voices from beyond the door, but cannot tell whether they are coming from directly behind the door, or from farther within the fortress. Windcharger is eager to burst through the door and take the Decepticons by surprise. The hesitant Beachcomber would prefer to return to the storage room and seek another more secretive way into the fortress.

:::'''''Should Beachcomber return to the storage room?'' (>>[[#Page 13|PAGE_13]]>>)'''

:::'''''Should Beachcomber remain with Windcharger?'' (>>[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber leaves Windcharger to return to the storage room.'' {{anchor|Page 13}}(>>PAGE_13>>)''' But Beachcomber is scared of exploring the fortress by himself. Hoping to catch up with Powerglide, he heads back towards the brightly lit corridor. The two Autobots reunite, and commence to explore the fortress carefully. '''(>>[[#Page 20|PAGE_20]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]] OR [[#Page 13|PAGE_13]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber and Powerglide explore the corridor...'' {{anchor|Page 20}}(>>PAGE_20>>)''' pausing at each doorway to listen. Finding everything strangely silent, Beachcomber begins to question wether the element of surprise is truly on their side. But Decepticons voices become audible as they duo reach the end of the corridor. Beachcomber and Powerglide pause to listen. {{anchor|Page 16}}'''(PAGE_16)''' They overhear [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] discussing his plan with [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]. The Decepticon leader plans to wipe humanity off the face of the Earth with the aid of the "[[Destruction Beam]]" and Rumble’s earthquake-inducing abilities; the beam will create a fault line in an area, which will allow Rumble to cause massive destruction within a disaster radius. Once humanity is eradicated, the entire planet with be transformed into a massive laboratory. Afterwards, the Decepticons will return to Cybertron to reclaim as their own. The two Autobots further learn that Center City, the testing ground for this plot, will be reached by the Destruction Beam in one hour, fifty-two minutes, and thirty-seven seconds. {{anchor|Page 17}}'''(PAGE_17)''' Shocked by this discovery, Powerglide and Beachcomber race back to the fortress’s secret entrance, finding Windcharger already there. All three transform and return to Autobot headquarters. Once Optimus is informed of Megatron’s plan, the Autobots decide to split up into two groups. One will be the lead group, formed of the more powerful Autobots, and the other a smaller secondary group. But which group should be sent at which location?

::::'''''Send the lead group be sent to the fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 68|PAGE_68]]>>)'''

::::'''''Should the lead group be sent to Center City?'' (>>[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots’ lead team is sent to the Decepticons’ fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 68}}(>>PAGE_68>>)''' Amongst them is Optimus, Cosmos, Beachcomber, Brawn and [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]. Beachcomber locates the front door to the Decepticons’ fortress, and Brawn prevents them from closing while the Autobots storm the base. Though the Decepticons attempt to counter-attack, the Autobots disable them one by one. Optimus manages to get a hold of Megatron, and forces the Decepticon leader to guide him towards the Decepticons’ lab at gun-point. Beachcomber and Inferno follow them, while the battle continues to rage on behind them. {{anchor|Page 30}}'''(PAGE_30)''' Once inside the lab, Megatron shows them a monitor displaying the Destruction beam’s path towards Central City. Though Megatron ceases to cooperate when Optimus orders him to stop the beam from reaching its target, Beachcomber spots a button that causes the laser to dispel. Optimus declares: "Central City is safe, and the Decepticons are going down in history as a bunch of losers!" before sending the Destruction Beam machine to "robot heaven." The Autobots leave the fortress with Megatron as their prisoner of war, and the remaining Decepticons permanently maimed. The Autobots are later forced to release Megatron, however, in exchange with the safe release of the Autobots that were defeated in Central City while Optimus led the raid on the Decepticon base. Thoug Optimus knows the Decepticons are bound to brew more trouble, for the moment being he is happy to relax and recharge.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots’ lead team is sent to Center City.'' {{anchor|Page 36}}(>>PAGE_36>>)''' But they must be careful not to surpass the speed limit by too much, lest they bring attention to themselves. Accordingly, Cosmos hides in Optimus Prime’s trailer as they head down the highway. But Cosmos is displeased with this turn of events, and complains that if he can’t even be out in the open while the Autobots travel down a deserted road, for fear of instilling panic in the humans, how will he manage to be of any use once they reach Central City. Optimus considers Cosmos argument, and pulls over to…

:::::'''''Send Cosmos back to the Decepticon fortress to help the secondary team?'' (>>[[#Page 31|PAGE_31]]>>)'''

:::::'''''Assert that Cosmos better stay with the main group?'' (>>[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeCosmosspies.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]<<)''' '''''Cosmos is sent to help out the secondary team at the Decepticon fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 31}}(>>PAGE_31>>)''' Using his communicator to ask [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] for directions, he soon happens upon the cliff concealing the Decepticon base. The base’s doors are wide open and the smaller Autobot team is nowhere to be seen, so Cosmos decides to head into the gaping doorway. He pauses before doing so, attempting to reach Smokescreen once again over the communicate to no avail. Cautiously stepping inside, Cosmos hears a door creak open… {{anchor|Page 28}}'''(PAGE_28)''' Hearing voices coming from beyond the creaking door, he ventures within and hides behind a large machine. He beholds [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and Soundwave plotting together. Starscream tells Soundwave of how Megatron has become careless as of late, even forgetting to change the coded lock on his personal chambers. Now Starscream knows how to get in, and exposits how it would be a simple matter for him and Soundwave to lie in wait in their leader’s quarters, ready to ambush when he returns. Soundwave agrees, noting how he could stun their leader with his [[Gamma ray]] and they could usurp Megatron’s leadership of the Decepticons. Having heard enough, Cosmos begins to sneak out of the room, only to bump into Megatron himself. But before Megatron has a chance to attack, Cosmos tells him that he has information which might interest him. Does Megatron...

::::::'''''Hear Cosmos out?'' (>>[[#Page 4|PAGE_4]]>>)'''

::::::'''''Disregard what the Autobot has to say?'' (>>[[#Page 39|PAGE_39]]>>)'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 28|PAGE_28]]<<)''' '''''Megatron pauses to listen to what Cosmos has to say.'' {{anchor|Page 4}}(>>PAGE_4>>)''' Cosmos divulges what he has just heard Starscream and Soundwave say, being sure to put extra drama where it suits him. Megatron is infuriated at these revelations, and strides into the generator room to deal with the traitors. Cosmos hears the entire fortress tremble as Megatron fires his [[Fusion cannon]], and quickly hides when more Decepticons rush by him towards Megatron. Soon, two groups rally in the generator room where Megatron stands, one loyal to Megatron, the other loyal to Soundwave and Starscream. As Cosmos takes off to avoid being caught in the middle of the Decepticon mutiny, he bumps into Sunstreaker, who informs Cosmos that the rest of them have found the Decepticons’ lab. {{anchor|Page 33}}'''(PAGE_33)''' Joining Inferno before the Destruction Beam machine, Cosmos tells the others of what is taking place between Decepticon ranks, and is eager to finish the Decepticons off. But Inferno advises against the lot of them staying, and soon they are all fleeing away from the fortress. Suddenly, the fortress is caught in an enormous explosion, obliterating it. Inferno tells the others that they not only succeeded in halting the Destruction Beam's progress towards Center City, but they also redirected it to return to its source. The humans never need fear the Decepticons ever again!

:::::::'''THE END'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 28|PAGE_28]]<<)''' '''''Megatron ignores Cosmos’s pleas...'' {{anchor|Page 39}}(>>PAGE_39>>)''' and informs him nothing would dissuade him from blasting the little Autobot. Pressing an alarm on the wall, Megatron calls to him the rest of the Decepticons. Cosmos’s communicator remains silent as well. All seems lost when Cosmos spots [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] and half of the secondary team behind him, running down the hallway towards the Decepticons. The other half of the team is rushing down the corridor’s opposite end, surrounding the Decepticons. Though the Autobots want to end the battle quickly to deal with the Destruction Beam, they are forced to stay and fight until the last Decepticon falls. Just then, an ear-shattering roar is emanates down the fortress’s corridors… {{anchor|Page 67}}'''(PAGE_67)''' Rushing outdoors, the Autobots witness a cloud of dust rising from Center City’s remains. Though the Autobots on location fought bravely, once the Destruction Beam reached its target, there was nothing that could stop Rumble from making the city collapse underground. The rest of the Autobots surely perished during their mission. Cosmos and company return within the Decepticon base to destroy the lab therein, but bemoan their pyrrhic victory. At least several powerful enemies have been disposed of, and Megatron no longer has a lab to aid in his attempts at conquest. But the war isn’t over, it’s just beginning.

:::::::'''THE END'''

::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]<<)''' '''''Optimus assures Cosmos that he should stay with the Autobots’ main team.'' {{anchor|Page 37}}(>>PAGE_37>>)''' The Autobots continue towards Center City, only taking a short detour to pick up [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]], to act as medium between themselves and the humans. Optimus informs Sparkplug about what is going on, and before the Autobots enter Center City, asks Sparkplug which course of action would be wiser to take:

::::::'''''Enter Center City as robots, risking spooking the humans into a panic?'' (>>[[#Page 34|PAGE_34]]>>)'''

::::::'''''Enter Center City as vehicles, limiting the Autobots’ combat effectiveness?'' (>>[[#Page 51|PAGE_51]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeAutobotspanickingtownfolk.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]<<)''' '''''Sparkplug advises the Autobots to enter Central City in their robot modes.'' {{anchor|Page 34}}(>>PAGE_34>>)''' Optimus and his troops enter Center City ignoring the humans’ reactions to their appearance, as they concentrate on spotting any Decepticons in the area. When they fail to see any of their enemies, Optimus decides to speak to the city’s mayor and implore him to evacuate the city. But before they reach City Hall, policemen begin to announce that Center City is under siege by giant robots and that the citizens need to find shelter. {{anchor|Page 63}}'''(PAGE_63)''' Although at first Optimus assumes that the Decepticons are the robots are the ones causing the panic, Cosmos soon figures that the robots "attacking" the city are themselves. The humans panic and run uselessly around in the streets, instead of finding shelter as they were advised. It would be impossible to find the mayor in all of this confusion now. {{anchor|Page 42}}'''(PAGE_42)''' In an attempt to appease the humans, the Autobots transform back into vehicle mode. But they’ve run out of time. The Destruction Beam hits nearby, prompting Rumble to come out of hiding and begin using his seismic abilities in the middle of the street. The resulting fissures swallow up people, cars, streets and buildings. Five Autobots are swallowed up by a gaping chasm that appears suddenly. Then [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] appears overhead, signalling that the Autobots failed to deal with the rest of the Decepticons at the fortress. The earthquakes continue, as the rest of the city, and the last of the Autobots fall into the abyss. After the destruction comes to a halt, Megatron comes forth to inspect his handiwork. With the Autobots out of commission, the Earth is about to become a very unpleasant place for humans.

:::::::'''THE END'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]<<)''' '''''Sparkplug advises the Autobots to enter Center City in their vehicle modes.'' {{anchor|Page 51}}(>>PAGE_51>>)''' Though Beachcomber doubts they will be able to accomplish much in their vehicle modes, Sparkplug claims otherwise. Being an old friend of the Mayor’s he will seek audience with him, and convince him to evacuate the city. As for the means of the evacuation, it is the Autobots that will provide it. Though they will need to make several trips, the Autobots will ferry the humans out of the city in their vehicle modes. {{anchor|Page 43}}'''(PAGE_43)''' Once inside City Hall, Sparkplug speaks urgently with Mayor Todd. He convinces the mayor that Center City is right on a fault line, and due for an earthquake at any moment. Soon, every radio station in town is transmitting the evacuation plan to Center City’s residents, and everyone is evacuated in an orderly fashion. Meanwhile, Cosmos scouts high above, on the look-out for approaching Decepticons. As Optimus unloads his last batch at a nearby campsite, Cosmos radios him, letting him know that the Decepticons are approaching. {{anchor|Page 44}}'''(PAGE_44)''' Soon, the Destruction Beams courses down, causing a fault in the city’s foundation. Knowing that this means that the secondary team failed in their objective, the Autobots drive into the city in the hopes of stopping Rumble from completing his mission. {{anchor|Page 72}}'''(PAGE_72)''' The first Decepticons they encounter are Rumble and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]. They are quickly picked off by Optimus before more Decepticons arrive. One by one, the Decepticons are downed by the Autobots as they arrive in Center City. As the Decepticons are caught unawares, the battle is won with ease. Once the earthquake is avoided, the Autobots set out for the Decepticons’ fortress, passing by the campground where they dropped off the city’s residents. The humans see the Autobots in their robot modes, but are unafraid, having seen the Autobots’ heroic deeds. They cheer the Autobots on as they head towards the fortress to end the Decepticons once and for all!

:::::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber remains with Windcharger.'' {{anchor|Page 24}}(>>PAGE_24>>)''' Though Windcharger is eager to bust down the door with his magnetic powers, Beachcomber points out a string of numbers written out on a lighted panel above the door:
::::16/21/19/8–18/5/4/—2/21/20/20/15/14
::::Beachcomber surmises that it is a code, and by cracking it they’ll be able to make it through the door. Windcharger admits he’s not great a cracking codes, however. Can [[you]] help them crack it?

::::'''''Yes.'' (>>[[#Page 18|PAGE_18]]>>)'''

::::'''''No.'' (>>[[#Page 65|PAGE_65]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots crack the code.'' {{anchor|Page 18}}(>>PAGE_18>>)''' With the puzzle solved, the Autobots open the door {{anchor|Page 25}}'''(PAGE_25)''' and step forth into an elaborate spy station. But the monitors within the room display other rooms within the Decepticons’ fortress. Windcharger reasons that Megatron uses this room to spy on his own troops. Before they investigate further, they hear footstep approaching and hide a bank of computer screens. {{anchor|Page 12}}'''(PAGE_12)''' From their hiding spot, they hear [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] announce that the "Destruction Beam" has just left the lab. Megatron is pleased at the news, and gloats that the Autobots will be unable to stop his plan. Megatron then enters the room alone, shutting the door behind him. Immediately, Windcharger and Beachcomber jump the Decepticon leader, the former disarming him with his magnetic powers. Beachcomber bluffs that the entire fortress is surrounded. He warns Megatron that the entire fortress will be destroyed with them inside unless Megatron orders his troops to surrender. Believing he has no choice, Megatron does so and agrees to show the Autobots where his lab containing the Destruction Beam machine is located. While Windcharger keeps watch over Megatron, Beachcomber quietly sends a message to Optimus for him to send the Autobots over. Center City still stands, but the Decepticons have fallen.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots are unable to solve the code.'' {{anchor|Page 65}}(>>PAGE_65>>)''' Windcharger impatiently attempts to down the door with his magnetic powers instead, but only manages to make a racket. The two of them flee, but are spotted by Megatron who peers through the door just as they exit the passage. The Decepticon leader retreats back into his spy room, and takes a shortcut to the storage room, soon appearing before the two startled Autobots in his weapon form. {{anchor|Page 66}}'''(PAGE_66)''' The nuclear-charged fusion cannon blasts Windcharger and Beachcomber, leaving little remains in his shot’s wake. Powerglide does not fare much better, as he is soon captured while wandering around the fortress, and reprogrammed to lead the Decepticons back to the Autobots’ headquarters. The Autobots are caught off-guard by the attack, and though they fight well, soon only Optimus Prime remains. Megatron informs his foe that he has no plans to destroy him. Merely… alter him, so that he will become his newest weapon and ally. With his help, Megatron plans to destroy all of Earth’s cities. But Optimus would rather die than join the Decepticons, and with a last effort, initiates the self-destruct sequence for the Autobots’ base. The large explosion annihilates Optimus and all the Decepticons, bringing a sudden end to their war.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber sets out to explore the fortress on his own...'' {{anchor|Page 60}}(>>PAGE_60>>)''' as he watches Powerglide charge recklessly down the lit corridor and Windcharger head back for the rocky passage. He looks around to see nothing but closed doors and more empty corridors. Opening a door, he spots [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] on the other side, and quickly fires at the Decepticon. But Dirge dodges his shot with ease, and stuns Beachcomber with a [[Concussion weapon|concussion missile]].Dirge then proceeds to dismember Beachcomber, and extract the last fifteen minutes of footage from the Autobot’s memory tape. Learning that Powerglide and Windcharger are also in the vicinity, Dirge radios Megatron, who in turn orders the Decepticons to find the other intruders. {{anchor|Page 38}}'''(PAGE_38)''' Powerglide and Windcharger are soon captured and brought before Megatron. After taunting them, Megatron order [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] to dispose of them in whatever gruesome manner he chooses. Then, taking Beachcomber’s communicator, he disguises his voice and sends a request for back-up to Autobot headquarters. Optimus responds quickly, only for him and his troops to be mowed down by the Decepticons. With the Autobots destroyed, nothing can stop the Decepticons from subjugating the Earth.

:::'''THE END'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber decides to infiltrate the Decepticons’ fortress by himself...'' {{anchor|Page 62}}(>>PAGE_62>>)''' and cautiously steps towards the cliffside. At first he is unsure whether or not the doors will open for him. But as soon as he is in position, the automated doors slide open. Within the fortress, Beachcomber hears a humming sound and spots a dim light in the otherwise dark room. Just as he is enters, he hears humans talking nearby. He wonders if there could possibly be humans working in league with the Decepticons? As he wonders whether or not he should investigate the human voices, the doors to the fortress begin to close. They might not open for him again if he leaves. What to do?

:'''''Investigate the human voices?'' (>>[[#Page 21|PAGE_21]]>>)'''

:'''''Proceed within the Decepticon fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 14|PAGE_14]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber decides to investigate the human voices...'' {{anchor|Page 21}}(>>PAGE_21>>)''' figuring that if the doors opened for him once, they’ll do so again. Transforming into dune buggy mode, he drives towards the human voices, and encounters [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster]] and [[Jesse (G1)|Jessie]]! Buster recognizes Beachcomber despite the Autobot being in vehicle mode, and exclaims that he’s happy to see him. Jessie explains that they were exploring when they discovered the Decepticons’ fortress. Buster elaborates that they discovered a secret passage that lead within, and overheard Megatron explaining to his troops how he plans to take over the world. {{anchor|Page 22}}'''(PAGE_22)''' The Decepticons’ plan involves [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] firing the "Destruction Beam" from a lab hidden in the cliff. Afterwards, the Decepticons will employ Rumble’s seismic abilities to enlarge to fissure that the beam will create, causing a massive earthquake. Jessie further explains the beam will be tested on Center City in about an hour and a half. With this information, Beachcomber tells the two humans to hop in so he can drive them back to Autobot headquarters. But soon, Ramjet in vehicle mode appears overhead and starts attacking Beachcomber. Ramjet then transforms and quickly scoops up Jessie, flying off with her as a hostage. Beachcomber wants to proceed to Autobot headquarters to get help, but Buster pleads for him to go after Ramjet and rescue Jessie.

::'''''Should Beachcomber return to the Decepticon fortress and attempt to rescue Jessie?'' (>>[[#Page 26|PAGE_26]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber continue back to the Autobots’ base and ask for help?'' (>>[[#Page 32|PAGE_32]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''Buster convinces Beachcomber to go after Jessie.'' {{anchor|Page 26}}(>>PAGE_26>>)''' Beachcomber reasons that they wouldn’t be able to reach Autobot headquarters and return in an hour-and-a-half anyways. But he explains to Buster that he can’t take the fortress’s main entrance, as the Decepticons will now be expecting them. Buster reassures Beachcomber that he found the secret entrance to the Decepticons’ base once, and he’ll do so again. Once before the secret entrance, Beachcomber transforms. {{anchor|Page 27}}'''(PAGE_27)''' Venturing within, the two of them soon hear Decepticon voices, along with Jessie’s. Buster insists they follow the voices, but Beachcomber would rather hide.

:::'''''Follow the voices?'' (>>[[#Page 46|PAGE_46]]>>)'''

:::'''''Find a hiding place?'' (>>[[#Page 49|PAGE_49]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeJessieKidnapped.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 27|PAGE_27]]<<)''' '''''At Buster’s insistance, Beachcomber agrees to follow the Decepticon voices.'' {{anchor|Page 46}}(>>PAGE_46>>)''' They soon spot Soundwave and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] locking Jessie away in a dark cell. Once the Decepticons leave, Buster and Beachcomber come out of hiding. {{anchor|Page 70}}'''(PAGE_70)''' Beachcomber and Buster reassure Jessie that they will get her out, and use a miniature laser from Beachcomber’s armament to cut open a hole in the solid steel door to Jessie’s cell. Once freed, Jessie is pleased to announce she has learned that the controls for the Destruction Beam are nearby. She is keen on finding them and save Center City. But despite their best efforts, the three of them cannot find the lab in the maze-like corridors. Pulling the humans aside, Beachcomber explains that they’re better off getting help than running around fruitlessly. {{anchor|Page 48}}'''(PAGE_48)''' Soon they are back at Autobot headquarters, where Mirage devises a plan. Beachcomber and Mirage return to the fortress, and use the secret entrance to sneak inside once more. Once there, they use Mirage’s holographic abilities to trick a passing Buzzsaw into thinking that the fortress is overrun with Autobots. After pushing an alarm, Buzzsaw rushes to the lab to guard it, but is followed by the two Autobots. Now having reached their target, the Autobots overpower Buzzsaw and destroy the lab, along with the Destruction Beam machine. The deed accomplish, the two Autobots rush outside to safety while the Decepticons scramble to defend themselves an enemy army that isn’t there.

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 27|PAGE_27]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber convinces Buster that they should hide...'' {{anchor|Page 49}}(>>PAGE_49>>)''' …and the voices soon fade into the distance. But once they are alone, both Beachcomber and Buster come to realize that they have no plan to get themselves out of this situation. Nonetheless, Beachcomber tells Buster that if they work together, they will be able to figure something out. {{anchor|Page 56}}'''(PAGE_56)''' Creeping out of their hiding place, Buster opens a nearby door slowly, only to be met by Ramjet once again. Having the duo cornered, Ramjet advances menacingly onto them. But Beachcomber tricks the dim-witted Decepticon into looking away by telling Buster other Autobots are coming down the corridor now. Once Ramjet is distracted, Beachcomber shoves his way past the Decepticon, and races off with Buster. {{anchor|Page 40}}'''(PAGE_40)''' But neither Buster or Beachcomber can find their way in the Decepticons’ maze-like fortress, and soon Megatron, Dirge, Starscream and Ramjet are all bearing down upon them. Taking the Autobot and the human prisoners, Megatron escorts the pair at gun-point to his laboratory. {{anchor|Page 7}}'''(PAGE_7)''' Megatron forces the two of them to watch a monitor displaying the beam’s progress as it hits Center City, signalling its doom. Megatron gloats of his victory before he pulls his trigger, firing upon his helpless prisoners.

::::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber drives back to Autobot base, despite Buster’s protests.'' {{anchor|Page 32}}(>>PAGE_32>>)''' Beachcomber explains that the Decepticons are unlikely to harm Jessie, as she is far more useful to them alive than dead, though Buster is still sour towards Beachcomber for his decision. Once at their headquarters, Beachcomber explains what has taken place to the Autobots, provoking a particularly strong emotional response from Brawn. Optimus leads over two-dozen Autobots back to the hills where the Decepticons’ secret fortress is located. {{anchor|Page 45}}'''(PAGE_45)''' Before reaching their destination, Optimus explains two possible course of action; either storm the front entrance by force, or sneak into the base using the secret entrance Buster and Jessie found. [Choose a number between one and ten.]

:::'''''If you chose an even number, go to:'' (>>[[#Page 57|PAGE_57]]>>)'''

:::'''''If you chose an odd number, go to:'' (>>[[#Page 54|PAGE_54]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 45|PAGE_45]]<<)''' '''''[You chose an even number]'' {{anchor|Page 57}}(>>PAGE_57>>)''' The Autobots choose to storm the fortress through the front door. But just as Beachcomber steps before the cliffside and the doors slide open, he hesitates. Turning back, he whines to Optimus Prime that they shouldn’t fight, and that violence only begets more violence. Optimus groans at Beachcomber’s inopportune timing, but before he can issue another order, Megatron’s voice booms through the doorway. He claims that the Autobots are within the sights of an enormous Decepticon arsenal! {{anchor|Page 58}}'''(PAGE_58)''' But the Autobots have no intention of surrendering, and fight valiantly. Unfortunately, the Decepticons are on familiar turf, and soon either slay or take prisoner all of the Autobots. Basking in his victory, Megatron invites the rest of the Decepticons to come observe the destruction of Center City. He then explains to his troops that this is only the beginning. Soon, every city on Earth will fall the Destruction Beam!

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 45|PAGE_45]]<<)''' '''''[You chose an odd number]'' {{anchor|Page 54}}(>>PAGE_54>>)''' The Autobots choose a stealthier approach, and let Buster lead them to the secret entrance. Once inside, Optimus instructs to attack any Decepticons they see, save Megatron, who he wants captured alive. The Autobots break up into small groups and start storming the entire fortress. One of these groups, composed of Sunstreaker, Beachcomber, Brawn, Buster and lead by Optimus himself soon find themselves in a lighted hallway lined with locked doors on either side. {{anchor|Page 71}}'''(PAGE_71)''' Before they proceed, Optimus explains that they need to focus their efforts on finding the Decepticons’ lab first. They are then accosted by Buzzsaw, [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] and Ramjet. After a brief scuffle, the Decepticons are incapacitated, but so is Sunstreaker. Optimus sadly reasons that they need to leave him behind for now, and the squadron continues to search for the lab. They come to a branch in the hallway, and must choose to go either left or right. [You must flip a coin]

::::'''If the coin comes up heads, the Autobots take the right passageway.'' (>>[[#Page 55|PAGE_55]]>>)'''

::::'''If the coin comes up tails, the Autobots take the left passageway.'' (>>[[#Page 52|PAGE_52]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 71|PAGE_71]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots take the right passageway...'' {{anchor|Page 55}}(>>PAGE_55>>)''' and begin heading down a corridor that seems to lead nowhere. Though there are no doors for a long stretch of the corridor, the Autobots begin to hear a faint voice as they proceed down the hallway. It’s Jessie! Finally finding themselves before a large door, Optimus breaks it down freeing the human from Decepticon captivity. Jessie tumbles into Buster’s arms, and informs the Autobots that she knows where the lab is! She leads the squad to a small red door, and tells them the controls to the Destruction Beam are within. But when the Autobots bust down the door, they find themselves surrounded by Decepticons! Megatron congratulate on her work! {{anchor|Page 50}}'''(PAGE_50)''' Jessie has been brainwashed by the Decepticons, and lead them into a trap, all according to Megatron’s plan! Taking away the Autobots’ communicators, Megatron sends Jessie out again to lure more Autobots into his trap. All the while, Optimus observes through a monitor the Destruction Beam coming into contact with Center City. Megatron takes note of this, and proudly announces that Rumble will soon be on location to finish the city in an earthquake. Megatron then orders Starscream to lock-up the Autobots. At least they aren’t being deactivated. Maybe Optimus will be able to formulate a plan? If not, this is truly…

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 71|PAGE_71]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots take the left passageway...'' {{anchor|Page 52}}(>>PAGE_52>>)''' and soon come upon a huge door marked "LAB." A precocious Beachcomber uses his sensors to detect what awaits them behind the door. He discovers that beyond the doorway, there is nothing. A drop of at least 100 feet. A trap. Buster then spots another door hidden in the shadows, which Optimus surmises is probably the true laboratory. Calling for six more Autobots as back up first, then blasts open the hidden door. As Optimus had guessed, this is the real lab! Brawn quickly dispatches the three Decepticons within. Then, Megatron strides in, only to encounter the wrong end of Optimus Prime’s laser rifle. Optimus instructs Megatron not to move, lest the Decepticon leader wishes to be blown to bits. {{anchor|Page 59}}'''(PAGE_59)''' Optimus demands to know how to halt the Destruction Beam’s progress. Megatron points him to a red button, but Optimus catches Megatron smiling just as he is about to push it. Optimus guesses that the button would most likely activate a self-destruct sequence, and demands once more how to stop the Destruction Beam. Megatron in turn screams that he will never give Optimus that information. But Megatron betrays his intentions once more, as Optimus notices the Decepticon is staring towards a lever across the room. Optimus instructs to pull the lever, and the beam is finally disarmed. Hours later, the Decepticons have all been defeated and deactivated, and Jessie has been rescued. The Autobots later celebrate by guzzling a few quarts of fine-grade [[oil]]. Buster and Jessie enjoy super-fudge ice cream sundaes instead.

:::::'''THE END'''

[[File:EarthquakeBeachcomberdisassembled.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber proceeds within the Decepticon fortress...'' {{anchor|Page 14}}(>>PAGE_14>>)''' and makes it within just as the doors close behind him. But as he rushes into the fortress, he finds Buzzsaw waiting for him! In an instant, Beachcomber is torn to pieces by the Decepticon! Then [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] emerges from the shadows, and further dismantles the Autobot. He soon finds Beachcomber’s memory circuits, and then carries what is left of the Autobot to Megatron. After extracting all the useful information they can find from Beachcomber’s mind, the Decepticons hatch a new plan… {{anchor|Page 19}}'''(PAGE_19)''' Megatron calls for [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] and [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] and instructs them to rebuild Beachcomber, with one modification. He hands the Constructicon two nearly identical chips; one being the Autobot’s original mind, the other a "Destructicon" chip. Megatron explains that the alternate chip will render Beachcomber the perfect undercover agent. However, when the time comes to reinsert Beachcomber’s memory chip, the bungling Constructicons mistakenly put the original one back in! Later, Beachcomber returns to Autobot headquarters, and informs Optimus of all that has transpired. Beachcomber also tells Optimus of all the plans that Megatron shared with him! With Beachcomber as the perfect reverse-double-agent, the Autobots are sure to defeat the Decepticons quickly!

::'''THE END'''
{{-}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters|nonumbering=true
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]]
* [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]]
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]]
* [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]]
* [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]]
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]
* [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]
* [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]]
* [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]]

|c2=
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]]
* [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]]
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]]
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]]
* [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]

|c3=
* [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]]
* [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster]]
* [[Jesse (G1)|Jessie]]
* [[Mayor Todd]]
}}

==Notes==
* Ann Matthews is a pseudonym of Ann M. Martin, who is known for creating ''{{w|The Baby-Sitters Club}}'' series.
* One of the vanishingly few appearances of Jesse (here spelled "Jessie") outside of Marvel Comics.
* Beachcomber is armed with a gun that shoots bullets. It's not especially effective, at least against the [[conehead]]s.
**Though they're never depicted as coneheads here, thanks to being toy/box-art based.
* Beachcomber's brain functions involve "memory tape". That's apparently standard for this micro-continuity-nexus, since Dirge is able to replay it (exactly how isn't explained; Soundwave and the cassettes aren't around) to gather intel after disassembling him. Dirge specifically replays "the last 15 minutes", implying he considers that the equivalent of Transformer short-term memory. This also implies that a Transformer's brain is much larger here than in most major continuities.
* Ratchet and Laserbeak are mentioned by other characters, but don't appear in a story path proper.
* This book was available individually, or as part of a six-book box set with the other five "pre-Movie era" books in the series.
===Errors===
* On page 62, there is a typo; "Quick" is mispelt as "Ouick."

==External links==
*[http://www.gamebooks.org/show_item.php?id=1147 Earthquake on Demian's Gamebook Web Page]

*[https://toyhax.com/FYF/ Screenshot of Ann M. Martin confirming that she wrote this issue]
[[Category:Generation 1 multipath adventures]]

Earthquake (book)

2024-11-23T17:38:10Z

Bigmanhelperhouseman: /* Synopsis */

{{Disambig3|earthquake}}
{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[Find Your Fate Junior]] #4
|prev=Attack of the Insecticons
|next=Desert Flight
|title="Earthquake"
|image=Earthquake fyf.jpg
|caption=I AM NOT A SHARK! I AM A MAN!
|publisher=[[Ballantine Books]]
|imprint=[[Find Your Fate Junior]]
|date=1986
|writer=[[Ann Matthews]]
|illustrator=[[William Schmidt]] (interior pencils and cover painting)
|pagecount=73
|ISBN=ISBN 9780345330710 ISBN 0-345-33071-4
}}
[[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] discovers a hidden [[Decepticon]] [[Destruction Beam#hidden fortress|base]], from which they are planning to destroy the nearby [[Center City]], a dry run at destroying all the world's capitals.

==Synopsis==
{{anchor|Page 1}}'''(PAGE_1)''' The Autobots lounge around their secret headquarters near Center City, Oregon, enjoying a day with no sign of Decepticon activity. [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus]] strikes up a conversation with the rest of the Autobots to remark on their good fortune. [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] reads a book, [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] is busy polishing himself, and [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] uses "special circuitry-building equipment" to work out. [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]], [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] and [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] join in on the conversation to discuss the opposing faction. {{anchor|Page 2}}'''(PAGE_2)''' Beachcomber waxes on about wanting a day to enjoy the great outdoors, so Optimus grants him a leave of absence. The Autobot dune buggy drive peacefully into the countryside, until the earth begins to shudder beneath his wheels. {{anchor|Page 3}}'''(PAGE_3)''' Frantically searching for the disturbance’s source, Beachcomber soon spots the Decepticon [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] practicing his seismic abilities. After a few more small tremors, Rumble appears pleased with himself and saunters off towards a cliff face. Following from a safe distance, Beachcomber witnesses the cliff opening up to allow Rumble into a secret Decepticon base. Beachcomber wants to report his ridings back to Optimus, but is afraid he might not be able to find his way back here once he leaves.

'''''Should Beachcomber hurry back to Autobot headquarters anyways?'' (>>[[#Page 5|PAGE_5]]>>)'''

'''''Should Beachcomber attempt to infiltrate the Decepticon fortress by himself?'' (>>[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]>>)'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber reports back to Autobot headquarters...'' {{anchor|Page 5}}(>>PAGE_5>>)''' after attempting to memorize every feature on the cliffside so as to recognize it later. Once Optimus has been informed on Beachcomber’s discovery, he sends him back, along with Powerglide and [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] to investigate the secret Decepticon base. {{anchor|Page 6}}'''(PAGE_6)''' Once they have found their way back to the location in question, the three Autobots puzzle over how to infiltrate the Decepticon fortress.

:'''''Should they attempt to enter through the same door Rumble disappeared through, and risk being easily detected by their foes?'' (>>[[#Page 10|PAGE_10]]>>)'''

:'''''Should they attempt to find another entrance with Beachcomber’s sensors, despite that it might waste precious time?'' (>>[[#Page 8|PAGE_8]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6|PAGE_6]]<<)''' '''''Powerglide, Beachcomber and Windcharger attempt to enter the Decepticon base through the cliffside… ''{{anchor|Page 10}}(>>PAGE_10>>)''' ...with Windcharger tempting his luck first. As he walks up to the cliffside, the concealed door open up for him automatically… Only to slam shut on him, badly damaging the Autobot. The doors open up again, and the Decepticons spill out of their fortress. Thinking fast, Beachcomber shouts to Powerglide that he hopes that Rumble will not start another quake. His attempt at reverse psychology works, as Rumble laughs at the Autobots before doing just that. Rumble’s quake causes the Decepticon fortress to crumble, burying the Decepticons in a cave-in, while Beachcomber and Powerglide dash out of the quake’s range. The two of them plan to return to the ruins once the dust has settles, so to retrieve Windcharger. [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] will be able to fix him up, and the Autobots won’t have to worry about the Decepticons for a while longer.

::'''THE END'''

[[File:EarthquakePowerglideBeahccomberWindcharger.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6|PAGE_6]]<<)''' '''''Powerglide, Beachcomber and Windcharger search for another way into the Decepticon fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 8}}(>>PAGE_8>>)''' soon finding a narrow passageway in the cliff hidden by bushes and scrub brush. {{anchor|Page 64}}'''(PAGE_64)''' At the end of the rocky passageway the Autobots discover a storage room. At the far end of it are two exits. One leads to another rocky passage just like the one the Autobots have just emerged from. The other is blocked by a door with a complicated lock. The lock proves to be a small deterrent, as Beachcomber manages to quickly disable it. Opening the door reveals a brightly lit corridor, which Powerglide insists on investigating. Windcharger, however, insists on going into the rocky passage instead. It looks like the team is splitting up.

::'''''Should Beachcomber accompany Windcharger into the rocky passage?'' (>>[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber accompany Powerglide into the brightly-lit corridor?'' (>>[[#Page 20|PAGE_20]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber set off on his own to explore another region of the fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 60|PAGE_60]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber accompanies Windcharger down the rocky passage...'' {{anchor|Page 11}}(>>PAGE_11>>)''' …soon finding their path blocked by a heavy stone doorway. The two Autobots hear faint Decepticon voices from beyond the door, but cannot tell whether they are coming from directly behind the door, or from farther within the fortress. Windcharger is eager to burst through the door and take the Decepticons by surprise. The hesitant Beachcomber would prefer to return to the storage room and seek another more secretive way into the fortress.

:::'''''Should Beachcomber return to the storage room?'' (>>[[#Page 13|PAGE_13]]>>)'''

:::'''''Should Beachcomber remain with Windcharger?'' (>>[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber leaves Windcharger to return to the storage room.'' {{anchor|Page 13}}(>>PAGE_13>>)''' But Beachcomber is scared of exploring the fortress by himself. Hoping to catch up with Powerglide, he heads back towards the brightly lit corridor. The two Autobots reunite, and commence to explore the fortress carefully. '''(>>[[#Page 20|PAGE_20]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]] OR [[#Page 13|PAGE_13]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber and Powerglide explore the corridor...'' {{anchor|Page 20}}(>>PAGE_20>>)''' pausing at each doorway to listen. Finding everything strangely silent, Beachcomber begins to question wether the element of surprise is truly on their side. But Decepticons voices become audible as they duo reach the end of the corridor. Beachcomber and Powerglide pause to listen. {{anchor|Page 16}}'''(PAGE_16)''' They overhear [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] discussing his plan with [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]. The Decepticon leader plans to wipe humanity off the face of the Earth with the aid of the "[[Destruction Beam]]" and Rumble’s earthquake-inducing abilities; the beam will create a fault line in an area, which will allow Rumble to cause massive destruction within a disaster radius. Once humanity is eradicated, the entire planet with be transformed into a massive laboratory. Afterwards, the Decepticons will return to Cybertron to reclaim as their own. The two Autobots further learn that Center City, the testing ground for this plot, will be reached by the Destruction Beam in one hour, fifty-two minutes, and thirty-seven seconds. {{anchor|Page 17}}'''(PAGE_17)''' Shocked by this discovery, Powerglide and Beachcomber race back to the fortress’s secret entrance, finding Windcharger already there. All three transform and return to Autobot headquarters. Once Optimus is informed of Megatron’s plan, the Autobots decide to split up into two groups. One will be the lead group, formed of the more powerful Autobots, and the other a smaller secondary group. But which group should be sent at which location?

::::'''''Send the lead group be sent to the fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 68|PAGE_68]]>>)'''

::::'''''Should the lead group be sent to Center City?'' (>>[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots’ lead team is sent to the Decepticons’ fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 68}}(>>PAGE_68>>)''' Amongst them is Optimus, Cosmos, Beachcomber, Brawn and [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]. Beachcomber locates the front door to the Decepticons’ fortress, and Brawn prevents them from closing while the Autobots storm the base. Though the Decepticons attempt to counter-attack, the Autobots disable them one by one. Optimus manages to get a hold of Megatron, and forces the Decepticon leader to guide him towards the Decepticons’ lab at gun-point. Beachcomber and Inferno follow them, while the battle continues to rage on behind them. {{anchor|Page 30}}'''(PAGE_30)''' Once inside the lab, Megatron shows them a monitor displaying the Destruction beam’s path towards Central City. Though Megatron ceases to cooperate when Optimus orders him to stop the beam from reaching its target, Beachcomber spots a button that causes the laser to dispel. Optimus declares: "Central City is safe, and the Decepticons are going down in history as a bunch of losers!" before sending the Destruction Beam machine to "robot heaven." The Autobots leave the fortress with Megatron as their prisoner of war, and the remaining Decepticons permanently maimed. The Autobots are later forced to release Megatron, however, in exchange with the safe release of the Autobots that were defeated in Central City while Optimus led the raid on the Decepticon base. Thoug Optimus knows the Decepticons are bound to brew more trouble, for the moment being he is happy to relax and recharge.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots’ lead team is sent to Central City.'' {{anchor|Page 36}}(>>PAGE_36>>)''' But they must be careful not to surpass the speed limit by too much, lest they bring attention to themselves. Accordingly, Cosmos hides in Optimus Prime’s trailer as they head down the highway. But Cosmos is displeased with this turn of events, and complains that if he can’t even be out in the open while the Autobots travel down a deserted road, for fear of instilling panic in the humans, how will he manage to be of any use once they reach Central City. Optimus considers Cosmos argument, and pulls over to…

:::::'''''Send Cosmos back to the Decepticon fortress to help the secondary team?'' (>>[[#Page 31|PAGE_31]]>>)'''

:::::'''''Assert that Cosmos better stay with the main group?'' (>>[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeCosmosspies.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]<<)''' '''''Cosmos is sent to help out the secondary team at the Decepticon fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 31}}(>>PAGE_31>>)''' Using his communicator to ask [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] for directions, he soon happens upon the cliff concealing the Decepticon base. The base’s doors are wide open and the smaller Autobot team is nowhere to be seen, so Cosmos decides to head into the gaping doorway. He pauses before doing so, attempting to reach Smokescreen once again over the communicate to no avail. Cautiously stepping inside, Cosmos hears a door creak open… {{anchor|Page 28}}'''(PAGE_28)''' Hearing voices coming from beyond the creaking door, he ventures within and hides behind a large machine. He beholds [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and Soundwave plotting together. Starscream tells Soundwave of how Megatron has become careless as of late, even forgetting to change the coded lock on his personal chambers. Now Starscream knows how to get in, and exposits how it would be a simple matter for him and Soundwave to lie in wait in their leader’s quarters, ready to ambush when he returns. Soundwave agrees, noting how he could stun their leader with his [[Gamma ray]] and they could usurp Megatron’s leadership of the Decepticons. Having heard enough, Cosmos begins to sneak out of the room, only to bump into Megatron himself. But before Megatron has a chance to attack, Cosmos tells him that he has information which might interest him. Does Megatron...

::::::'''''Hear Cosmos out?'' (>>[[#Page 4|PAGE_4]]>>)'''

::::::'''''Disregard what the Autobot has to say?'' (>>[[#Page 39|PAGE_39]]>>)'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 28|PAGE_28]]<<)''' '''''Megatron pauses to listen to what Cosmos has to say.'' {{anchor|Page 4}}(>>PAGE_4>>)''' Cosmos divulges what he has just heard Starscream and Soundwave say, being sure to put extra drama where it suits him. Megatron is infuriated at these revelations, and strides into the generator room to deal with the traitors. Cosmos hears the entire fortress tremble as Megatron fires his [[Fusion cannon]], and quickly hides when more Decepticons rush by him towards Megatron. Soon, two groups rally in the generator room where Megatron stands, one loyal to Megatron, the other loyal to Soundwave and Starscream. As Cosmos takes off to avoid being caught in the middle of the Decepticon mutiny, he bumps into Sunstreaker, who informs Cosmos that the rest of them have found the Decepticons’ lab. {{anchor|Page 33}}'''(PAGE_33)''' Joining Inferno before the Destruction Beam machine, Cosmos tells the others of what is taking place between Decepticon ranks, and is eager to finish the Decepticons off. But Inferno advises against the lot of them staying, and soon they are all fleeing away from the fortress. Suddenly, the fortress is caught in an enormous explosion, obliterating it. Inferno tells the others that not only they succeeded in halting the Destruction Beam's progress towards Central City, but they also redirected it to return to its source. The humans never need fear the Decepticons ever again!

:::::::'''THE END'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 28|PAGE_28]]<<)''' '''''Megatron ignores Cosmos’s pleas...'' {{anchor|Page 39}}(>>PAGE_39>>)''' and informs him nothing would dissuade him from blasting the little Autobot. Pressing an alarm on the wall, Megatron calls to him the rest of the Decepticons. Cosmos’s communicator remains silent as well. All seems lost when Cosmos spots [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] and half of the secondary team behind him, running down the hallway towards the Decepticons. The other half of the team is rushing down the corridor’s opposite end, surrounding the Decepticons. Though the Autobots want to end the battle quickly to deal with the Destruction Beam, they are forced to stay and fight until the last Decepticon falls. Just then, an ear-shattering roar is emanates down the fortress’s corridors… {{anchor|Page 67}}'''(PAGE_67)''' Rushing outdoors, the Autobots witness a cloud of dust rising from Central City’s remains. Though the Autobots on location fought bravely, once the Destruction Beam reached its target, there was nothing that could stop Rumble from making the city collapse underground. The rest of the Autobots surely perished during their mission. Cosmos and company return within the Decepticon base to destroy the lab therein, but bemoan their pyrrhic victory. At least several powerful enemies have been disposed of, and Megatron no longer has a lab to aid in his attempts at conquest. But the war isn’t over, it’s just beginning.

:::::::'''THE END'''

::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]<<)''' '''''Optimus assures Cosmos that he should stay with the Autobots’ main team.'' {{anchor|Page 37}}(>>PAGE_37>>)''' The Autobots continue towards Central City, only taking a short detour to pick up [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]], to act as medium between themselves and the humans. Optimus informs Sparkplug about what is going on, and before the Autobots enter Central City, asks Sparkplug which course of action would be wiser to take:

::::::'''''Enter Central City as robots, risking spooking the humans into a panic?'' (>>[[#Page 34|PAGE_34]]>>)'''

::::::'''''Enter Central City as vehicles, limiting the Autobots’ combat effectiveness?'' (>>[[#Page 51|PAGE_51]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeAutobotspanickingtownfolk.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]<<)''' '''''Sparkplug advises the Autobots to enter Central City in their robot modes.'' {{anchor|Page 34}}(>>PAGE_34>>)''' Optimus and his troops enter Central City ignoring the humans’ reactions to their appearance, as they concentrate on spotting any Decepticons in the area. When they fail to see any of their enemies, Optimus decides to speak to the city’s mayor and implore him to evacuate the city. But before they reach City Hall, policemen begin to announce that Central City is under siege by giant robots and that the citizens need to find shelter. {{anchor|Page 63}}'''(PAGE_63)''' Although at first Optimus assumes that the Decepticons are the robots are the ones causing the panic, Cosmos soon figures that the robots "attacking" the city are themselves. The humans panic and run uselessly around in the streets, instead of finding shelter as they were advised. It would be impossible to find the mayor in all of this confusion now. {{anchor|Page 42}}'''(PAGE_42)''' In an attempt to appease the humans, the Autobots transform back into vehicle mode. But they’ve run out of time. The Destruction Beam hits nearby, prompting Rumble to come out of hiding and begin using his seismic abilities in the middle of the street. The resulting fissures swallow up people, cars, streets and buildings. Five Autobots are swallowed up by a gaping chasm that appears suddenly. Then [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] appears overhead, signalling that the Autobots failed to deal with the rest of the Decepticons at the fortress. The earthquakes continue, as the rest of the city, and the last of the Autobots fall into the abyss. After the destruction comes to a halt, Megatron comes forth to inspect his handiwork. With the Autobots out of commission, the Earth is about to become a very unpleasant place for humans.

:::::::'''THE END'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]<<)''' '''''Sparkplug advises the Autobots to enter Central City in their vehicle modes.'' {{anchor|Page 51}}(>>PAGE_51>>)''' Though Beachcomber doubts they will be able to accomplish much in their vehicle modes, Sparkplug claims otherwise. Being an old friend of the Mayor’s he will seek audience with him, and convince him to evacuate the city. As for the means of the evacuation, it is the Autobots that will provide it. Though they will need to make several trips, the Autobots will ferry the humans out of the city in their vehicle modes. {{anchor|Page 43}}'''(PAGE_43)''' Once inside City Hall, Sparkplug speaks urgently with Mayor Todd. He convinces the mayor that Central City is right on a fault line, and due for an Earthquake at any moment. Soon, every radio station in town is transmitting the evacuation plan to Central City’s residents, and everyone is evacuated in an orderly fashion. Meanwhile, Cosmos scouts high above, on the look-out for approaching Decepticons. As Optimus unloads his last batch at a nearby campsite, Cosmos radios him, letting him know that the Decepticons are approaching. {{anchor|Page 44}}'''(PAGE_44)''' Soon, the Destruction Beams courses down, causing a fault in the city’s foundation. Knowing that this means that the secondary team failed in their objective, the Autobots drive into the city in the hopes of stopping Rumble from completing his mission. {{anchor|Page 72}}'''(PAGE_72)''' The first Decepticons they encounter are Rumble and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]. They are quickly picked off by Optimus before more Decepticons arrive. One by one, the Decepticons are downed by the Autobots as they arrive in Central City. As the Decepticons are caught unawares, the battle is won with ease. Once the earthquake is avoided, the Autobots set out for the Decepticons’ fortress, passing by the campground where they dropped off the city’s residents. The humans see the Autobots in their robot modes, but are unafraid, having seen the Autobots’ heroic deeds. They cheer the Autobots on as they head towards the fortress to end the Decepticons once and for all!

:::::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber remains with Windcharger.'' {{anchor|Page 24}}(>>PAGE_24>>)''' Though Windcharger is eager to bust down the door with his magnetic powers, Beachcomber points out a string of numbers written out on a lighted panel above the door:
::::16/21/19/8–18/5/4/—2/21/20/20/15/14
::::Beachcomber surmises that it is a code, and by cracking it they’ll be able to make it through the door. Windcharger admits he’s not great a cracking codes, however. Can [[you]] help them crack it?

::::'''''Yes.'' (>>[[#Page 18|PAGE_18]]>>)'''

::::'''''No.'' (>>[[#Page 65|PAGE_65]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots crack the code.'' {{anchor|Page 18}}(>>PAGE_18>>)''' With the puzzle solved, the Autobots open the door {{anchor|Page 25}}'''(PAGE_25)''' and step forth into an elaborate spy station. But the monitors within the room display other rooms within the Decepticons’ fortress. Windcharger reasons that Megatron uses this room to spy on his own troops. Before they investigate further, they hear footstep approaching and hide a bank of computer screens. {{anchor|Page 12}}'''(PAGE_12)''' From their hiding spot, they hear [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] announce that the "Destruction Beam" has just left the lab. Megatron is pleased at the news, and gloats that the Autobots will be unable to stop his plan. Megatron then enters the room alone, shutting the door behind him. Immediately, Windcharger and Beachcomber jump the Decepticon leader, the former disarming him with his magnetic powers. Beachcomber bluffs that the entire fortress is surrounded. He warns Megatron that the entire fortress will be destroyed with them inside unless Megatron orders his troops to surrender. Believing he has no choice, Megatron does so and agrees to show the Autobots where his lab containing the Destruction Beam machine is located. While Windcharger keeps watch over Megatron, Beachcomber quietly sends a message to Optimus for him to send the Autobots over. Central City still stands, but the Decepticons have fallen.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots are unable to solve the code.'' {{anchor|Page 65}}(>>PAGE_65>>)''' Windcharger impatiently attempts to down the door with his magnetic powers instead, but only manages to make a racket. The two of them flee, but are spotted by Megatron who peers through the door just as they exit the passage. The Decepticon leader retreats back into his spy room, and takes a shortcut to the storage room, soon appearing before the two startled Autobots in his weapon form. {{anchor|Page 66}}'''(PAGE_66)''' The nuclear-charged fusion cannon blasts Windcharger and Beachcomber, leaving little remains in his shot’s wake. Powerglide does not fare much better, as he is soon captured while wandering around the fortress, and reprogrammed to lead the Decepticons back to the Autobots’ headquarters. The Autobots are caught off-guard by the attack, and though they fight well, soon only Optimus Prime remains. Megatron informs his foe that he has no plans to destroy him. Merely… alter him, so that he will become his newest weapon and ally. With his help, Megatron plans to destroy all of Earth’s cities. But Optimus would rather die than join the Decepticons, and with a last effort, initiates the self-destruct sequence for the Autobots’ base. The large explosion annihilates Optimus and all the Decepticons, bringing a sudden end to their war.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber sets out to explore the fortress on his own...'' {{anchor|Page 60}}(>>PAGE_60>>)''' as he watches Powerglide charge recklessly down the lit corridor and Windcharger head back for the rocky passage. He looks around to see nothing but closed doors and more empty corridors. Opening a door, he spots [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] on the other side, and quickly fires at the Decepticon. But Dirge dodges his shot with ease, and stuns Beachcomber with a [[Concussion weapon|concussion missile]].Dirge then proceeds to dismember Beachcomber, and extract the last fifteen minutes of footage from the Autobot’s memory tape. Learning that Powerglide and Windcharger are also in the vicinity, Dirge radios Megatron, who in turn orders the Decepticons to find the other intruders. {{anchor|Page 38}}'''(PAGE_38)''' Powerglide and Windcharger are soon captured and brought before Megatron. After taunting them, Megatron order [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] to dispose of them in whatever gruesome manner he chooses. Then, taking Beachcomber’s communicator, he disguises his voice and sends a request for back-up to Autobot headquarters. Optimus responds quickly, only for him and his troops to be mowed down by the Decepticons. With the Autobots destroyed, nothing can stop the Decepticons from subjugating the Earth.

:::'''THE END'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber decides to infiltrate the Decepticons’ fortress by himself...'' {{anchor|Page 62}}(>>PAGE_62>>)''' and cautiously steps towards the cliffside. At first he is unsure whether or not the doors will open for him. But as soon as he is in position, the automated doors slide open. Within the fortress, Beachcomber hears a humming sound and spots a dim light in the otherwise dark room. Just as he is enters, he hears humans talking nearby. He wonders if there could possibly be humans working in league with the Decepticons? As he wonders whether or not he should investigate the human voices, the doors to the fortress begin to close. They might not open for him again if he leaves. What to do?

:'''''Investigate the human voices?'' (>>[[#Page 21|PAGE_21]]>>)'''

:'''''Proceed within the Decepticon fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 14|PAGE_14]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber decides to investigate the human voices...'' {{anchor|Page 21}}(>>PAGE_21>>)''' figuring that if the doors opened for him once, they’ll do so again. Transforming into dune buggy mode, he drives towards the human voices, and encounters [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster]] and [[Jesse (G1)|Jessie]]! Buster recognizes Beachcomber despite the Autobot being in vehicle mode, and exclaims that he’s happy to see him. Jessie explains that they were exploring when they discovered the Decepticons’ fortress. Buster elaborates that they discovered a secret passage that lead within, and overheard Megatron explaining to his troops how he plans to take over the world. {{anchor|Page 22}}'''(PAGE_22)''' The Decepticons’ plan involves [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] firing the "Destruction Beam" from a lab hidden in the cliff. Afterwards, the Decepticons will employ Rumble’s seismic abilities to enlarge to fissure that the beam will create, causing a massive earthquake. Jessie further explains the beam will be tested on Central City in about an hour and a half. With this information, Beachcomber tells the two humans to hop in so he can drive them back to Autobot headquarters. But soon, Ramjet in vehicle mode appears overhead and starts attacking Beachcomber. Ramjet then transforms and quickly scoops up Jessie, flying off with her as a hostage. Beachcomber wants to proceed to Autobot headquarters to get help, but Buster pleads for him to go after Ramjet and rescue Jessie.

::'''''Should Beachcomber return to the Decepticon fortress and attempt to rescue Jessie?'' (>>[[#Page 26|PAGE_26]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber continue back to the Autobots’ base and ask for help?'' (>>[[#Page 32|PAGE_32]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''Buster convinces Beachcomber to go after Jessie.'' {{anchor|Page 26}}(>>PAGE_26>>)''' Beachcomber reasons that they wouldn’t be able to reach Autobot headquarters and return in an hour-and-a-half anyways. But he explains to Buster that he can’t take the fortress’s main entrance, as the Decepticons will now be expecting them. Buster reassures Beachcomber that he found the secret entrance to the Decepticons’ base once, and he’ll do so again. Once before the secret entrance, Beachcomber transforms. {{anchor|Page 27}}'''(PAGE_27)''' Venturing within, the two of them soon hear Decepticon voices, along with Jessie’s. Buster insists they follow the voices, but Beachcomber would rather hide.

:::'''''Follow the voices?'' (>>[[#Page 46|PAGE_46]]>>)'''

:::'''''Find a hiding place?'' (>>[[#Page 49|PAGE_49]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeJessieKidnapped.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 27|PAGE_27]]<<)''' '''''At Buster’s insistance, Beachcomber agrees to follow the Decepticon voices.'' {{anchor|Page 46}}(>>PAGE_46>>)''' They soon spot Soundwave and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] locking Jessie away in a dark cell. Once the Decepticons leave, Buster and Beachcomber come out of hiding. {{anchor|Page 70}}'''(PAGE_70)''' Beachcomber and Buster reassure Jessie that they will get her out, and use a miniature laser from Beachcomber’s armament to cut open a hole in the solid steel door to Jessie’s cell. Once freed, Jessie is pleased to announce she has learned that the controls for the Destruction Beam are nearby. She is keen on finding them and save Central City. But despite their best efforts, the three of them cannot find the lab in the maze-like corridors. Pulling the humans aside, Beachcomber explains that they’re better off getting help than running around fruitlessly. {{anchor|Page 48}}'''(PAGE_48)''' Soon they are back at Autobot headquarters, where Mirage devises a plan. Beachcomber and Mirage return to the fortress, and use the secret entrance to sneak inside once more. Once there, they use Mirage’s holographic abilities to trick a passing Buzzsaw into thinking that the fortress is overrun with Autobots. After pushing an alarm, Buzzsaw rushes to the lab to guard it, but is followed by the two Autobots. Now having reached their target, the Autobots overpower Buzzsaw and destroy the lab, along with the Destruction Beam machine. The deed accomplish, the two Autobots rush outside to safety while the Decepticons scramble to defend themselves an enemy army that isn’t there.

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 27|PAGE_27]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber convinces Buster that they should hide...'' {{anchor|Page 49}}(>>PAGE_49>>)''' …and the voices soon fade into the distance. But once they are alone, both Beachcomber and Buster come to realize that they have no plan to get themselves out of this situation. Nonetheless, Beachcomber tells Buster that if they work together, they will be able to figure something out. {{anchor|Page 56}}'''(PAGE_56)''' Creeping out of their hiding place, Buster opens a nearby door slowly, only to be met by Ramjet once again. Having the duo cornered, Ramjet advances menacingly onto them. But Beachcomber tricks the dim-witted Decepticon into looking away by telling Buster other Autobots are coming down the corridor now. Once Ramjet is distracted, Beachcomber shoves his way past the Decepticon, and races off with Buster. {{anchor|Page 40}}'''(PAGE_40)''' But neither Buster or Beachcomber can find their way in the Decepticons’ maze-like fortress, and soon Megatron, Dirge, Starscream and Ramjet are all bearing down upon them. Taking the Autobot and the human prisoners, Megatron escorts the pair at gun-point to his laboratory. {{anchor|Page 7}}'''(PAGE_7)''' Megatron forces the two of them to watch a monitor displaying the beam’s progress as it hits Central City, signalling its doom. Megatron gloats of his victory before he pulls his trigger, firing upon his helpless prisoners.

::::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber drives back to Autobot base, despite Buster’s protests.'' {{anchor|Page 32}}(>>PAGE_32>>)''' Beachcomber explains that the Decepticons are unlikely to harm Jessie, as she is far more useful to them alive than dead, though Buster is still sour towards Beachcomber for his decision. Once at their headquarters, Beachcomber explains what has taken place to the Autobots, provoking a particularly strong emotional response from Brawn. Optimus leads over two-dozen Autobots back to the hills where the Decepticons’ secret fortress is located. {{anchor|Page 45}}'''(PAGE_45)''' Before reaching their destination, Optimus explains two possible course of action; either storm the front entrance by force, or sneak into the base using the secret entrance Buster and Jessie found. [Choose a number between one and ten.]

:::'''''If you chose an even number, go to:'' (>>[[#Page 57|PAGE_57]]>>)'''

:::'''''If you chose an odd number, go to:'' (>>[[#Page 54|PAGE_54]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 45|PAGE_45]]<<)''' '''''[You chose an even number]'' {{anchor|Page 57}}(>>PAGE_57>>)''' The Autobots choose to storm the fortress through the front door. But just as Beachcomber steps before the cliffside and the doors slide open, he hesitates. Turning back, he whines to Optimus Prime that they shouldn’t fight, and that violence only begets more violence. Optimus groans at Beachcomber’s inopportune timing, but before he can issue another order, Megatron’s voice booms through the doorway. He claims that the Autobots are within the sights of an enormous Decepticon arsenal! {{anchor|Page 58}}'''(PAGE_58)''' But the Autobots have no intention of surrendering, and fight valiantly. Unfortunately, the Decepticons are on familiar turf, and soon either slay or take prisoner all of the Autobots. Basking in his victory, Megatron invites the rest of the Decepticons to come observe the destruction of Central City. He then explains to his troops that this is only the beginning. Soon, every city on Earth will fall the Destruction Beam!

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 45|PAGE_45]]<<)''' '''''[You chose an odd number]'' {{anchor|Page 54}}(>>PAGE_54>>)''' The Autobots choose a stealthier approach, and let Buster lead them to the secret entrance. Once inside, Optimus instructs to attack any Decepticons they see, save Megatron, who he wants captured alive. The Autobots break up into small groups and start storming the entire fortress. One of these groups, composed of Sunstreaker, Beachcomber, Brawn, Buster and lead by Optimus himself soon find themselves in a lighted hallway lined with locked doors on either side. {{anchor|Page 71}}'''(PAGE_71)''' Before they proceed, Optimus explains that they need to focus their efforts on finding the Decepticons’ lab first. They are then accosted by Buzzsaw, [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] and Ramjet. After a brief scuffle, the Decepticons are incapacitated, but so is Sunstreaker. Optimus sadly reasons that they need to leave him behind for now, and the squadron continues to search for the lab. They come to a branch in the hallway, and must choose to go either left or right. [You must flip a coin]

::::'''If the coin comes up heads, the Autobots take the right passageway.'' (>>[[#Page 55|PAGE_55]]>>)'''

::::'''If the coin comes up tails, the Autobots take the left passageway.'' (>>[[#Page 52|PAGE_52]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 71|PAGE_71]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots take the right passageway...'' {{anchor|Page 55}}(>>PAGE_55>>)''' and begin heading down a corridor that seems to lead nowhere. Though there are no doors for a long stretch of the corridor, the Autobots begin to hear a faint voice as they proceed down the hallway. It’s Jessie! Finally finding themselves before a large door, Optimus breaks it down freeing the human from Decepticon captivity. Jessie tumbles into Buster’s arms, and informs the Autobots that she knows where the lab is! She leads the squad to a small red door, and tells them the controls to the Destruction Beam are within. But when the Autobots bust down the door, they find themselves surrounded by Decepticons! Megatron congratulate on her work! {{anchor|Page 50}}'''(PAGE_50)''' Jessie has been brainwashed by the Decepticons, and lead them into a trap, all according to Megatron’s plan! Taking away the Autobots’ communicators, Megatron sends Jessie out again to lure more Autobots into his trap. All the while, Optimus observes through a monitor the Destruction Beam coming into contact with Central City. Megatron takes note of this, and proudly announces that Rumble will soon be on location to finish the city in an earthquake. Megatron then orders Starscream to lock-up the Autobots. At least they aren’t being deactivated. Maybe Optimus will be able to formulate a plan? If not, this is truly…

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 71|PAGE_71]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots take the left passageway...'' {{anchor|Page 52}}(>>PAGE_52>>)''' and soon come upon a huge door marked "LAB." A precocious Beachcomber uses his sensors to detect what awaits them behind the door. He discovers that beyond the doorway, there is nothing. A drop of at least 100 feet. A trap. Buster then spots another door hidden in the shadows, which Optimus surmises is probably the true laboratory. Calling for six more Autobots as back up first, then blasts open the hidden door. As Optimus had guessed, this is the real lab! Brawn quickly dispatches the three Decepticons within. Then, Megatron strides in, only to encounter the wrong end of Optimus Prime’s laser rifle. Optimus instructs Megatron not to move, lest the Decepticon leader wishes to be blown to bits. {{anchor|Page 59}}'''(PAGE_59)''' Optimus demands to know how to halt the Destruction Beam’s progress. Megatron points him to a red button, but Optimus catches Megatron smiling just as he is about to push it. Optimus guesses that the button would most likely activate a self-destruct sequence, and demands once more how to stop the Destruction Beam. Megatron in turn screams that he will never give Optimus that information. But Megatron betrays his intentions once more, as Optimus notices the Decepticon is staring towards a lever across the room. Optimus instructs to pull the lever, and the beam is finally disarmed. Hours later, the Decepticons have all been defeated and deactivated, and Jessie has been rescued. The Autobots later celebrate by guzzling a few quarts of fine-grade [[oil]]. Buster and Jessie enjoy super-fudge ice cream sundaes instead.

:::::'''THE END'''

[[File:EarthquakeBeachcomberdisassembled.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber proceeds within the Decepticon fortress...'' {{anchor|Page 14}}(>>PAGE_14>>)''' and makes it within just as the doors close behind him. But as he rushes into the fortress, he finds Buzzsaw waiting for him! In an instant, Beachcomber is torn to pieces by the Decepticon! Then [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] emerges from the shadows, and further dismantles the Autobot. He soon finds Beachcomber’s memory circuits, and then carries what is left of the Autobot to Megatron. After extracting all the useful information they can find from Beachcomber’s mind, the Decepticons hatch a new plan… {{anchor|Page 19}}'''(PAGE_19)''' Megatron calls for [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] and [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] and instructs them to rebuild Beachcomber, with one modification. He hands the Constructicon two nearly identical chips; one being the Autobot’s original mind, the other a "Destructicon" chip. Megatron explains that the alternate chip will render Beachcomber the perfect undercover agent. However, when the time comes to reinsert Beachcomber’s memory chip, the bungling Constructicons mistakenly put the original one back in! Later, Beachcomber returns to Autobot headquarters, and informs Optimus of all that has transpired. Beachcomber also tells Optimus of all the plans that Megatron shared with him! With Beachcomber as the perfect reverse-double-agent, the Autobots are sure to defeat the Decepticons quickly!

::'''THE END'''
{{-}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters|nonumbering=true
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]]
* [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]]
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]]
* [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]]
* [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]]
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]
* [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]
* [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]]
* [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]]

|c2=
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]]
* [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]]
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]]
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]]
* [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]

|c3=
* [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]]
* [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster]]
* [[Jesse (G1)|Jessie]]
* [[Mayor Todd]]
}}

==Notes==
* Ann Matthews is a pseudonym of Ann M. Martin, who is known for creating ''{{w|The Baby-Sitters Club}}'' series.
* One of the vanishingly few appearances of Jesse (here spelled "Jessie") outside of Marvel Comics.
* Beachcomber is armed with a gun that shoots bullets. It's not especially effective, at least against the [[conehead]]s.
**Though they're never depicted as coneheads here, thanks to being toy/box-art based.
* Beachcomber's brain functions involve "memory tape". That's apparently standard for this micro-continuity-nexus, since Dirge is able to replay it (exactly how isn't explained; Soundwave and the cassettes aren't around) to gather intel after disassembling him. Dirge specifically replays "the last 15 minutes", implying he considers that the equivalent of Transformer short-term memory. This also implies that a Transformer's brain is much larger here than in most major continuities.
* Ratchet and Laserbeak are mentioned by other characters, but don't appear in a story path proper.
* This book was available individually, or as part of a six-book box set with the other five "pre-Movie era" books in the series.
===Errors===
* On page 62, there is a typo; "Quick" is mispelt as "Ouick."

==External links==
*[http://www.gamebooks.org/show_item.php?id=1147 Earthquake on Demian's Gamebook Web Page]

*[https://toyhax.com/FYF/ Screenshot of Ann M. Martin confirming that she wrote this issue]
[[Category:Generation 1 multipath adventures]]

Earthquake (book)

2024-11-23T17:11:13Z

Bigmanhelperhouseman: /* Synopsis */

{{Disambig3|earthquake}}
{{comicstory|seriesissue=[[Find Your Fate Junior]] #4
|prev=Attack of the Insecticons
|next=Desert Flight
|title="Earthquake"
|image=Earthquake fyf.jpg
|caption=I AM NOT A SHARK! I AM A MAN!
|publisher=[[Ballantine Books]]
|imprint=[[Find Your Fate Junior]]
|date=1986
|writer=[[Ann Matthews]]
|illustrator=[[William Schmidt]] (interior pencils and cover painting)
|pagecount=73
|ISBN=ISBN 9780345330710 ISBN 0-345-33071-4
}}
[[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] discovers a hidden [[Decepticon]] [[Destruction Beam#hidden fortress|base]], from which they are planning to destroy the nearby [[Center City]], a dry run at destroying all the world's capitals.

==Synopsis==
{{anchor|Page 1}}'''(PAGE_1)''' The Autobots lounge around their secret headquarters near Central City, Oregon, enjoying a day with no sign of Decepticon activity. [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus]] strikes up a conversation with the rest of the Autobots to remark on their good fortune. [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]] reads a book, [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]] is busy polishing himself, and [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]] uses "special circuitry-building equipment" to work out. [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]], [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]] and [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]] join in on the conversation to discuss the opposing faction. {{anchor|Page 2}}'''(PAGE_2)''' Beachcomber waxes on about wanting a day to enjoy the great outdoors, so Optimus grants him a leave of absence. The Autobot dune buggy drive peacefully into the countryside, until the earth begins to shudder beneath his wheels. {{anchor|Page 3}}'''(PAGE_3)''' Frantically searching for the disturbance’s source, Beachcomber soon spots the Decepticon [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] practicing his seismic abilities. After a few more small tremors, Rumble appears pleased with himself and saunters off towards a cliff face. Following from a safe distance, Beachcomber witnesses the cliff opening up to allow Rumble into a secret Decepticon base. Beachcomber wants to report his ridings back to Optimus, but is afraid he might not be able to find his way back here once he leaves.

'''''Should Beachcomber hurry back to Autobot headquarters anyways?'' (>>[[#Page 5|PAGE_5]]>>)'''

'''''Should Beachcomber attempt to infiltrate the Decepticon fortress by himself?'' (>>[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]>>)'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber reports back to Autobot headquarters...'' {{anchor|Page 5}}(>>PAGE_5>>)''' after attempting to memorize every feature on the cliffside so as to recognize it later. Once Optimus has been informed on Beachcomber’s discovery, he sends him back, along with Powerglide and [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]] to investigate the secret Decepticon base. {{anchor|Page 6}}'''(PAGE_6)''' Once they have found their way back to the location in question, the three Autobots puzzle over how to infiltrate the Decepticon fortress.

:'''''Should they attempt to enter through the same door Rumble disappeared through, and risk being easily detected by their foes?'' (>>[[#Page 10|PAGE_10]]>>)'''

:'''''Should they attempt to find another entrance with Beachcomber’s sensors, despite that it might waste precious time?'' (>>[[#Page 8|PAGE_8]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6|PAGE_6]]<<)''' '''''Powerglide, Beachcomber and Windcharger attempt to enter the Decepticon base through the cliffside… ''{{anchor|Page 10}}(>>PAGE_10>>)''' ...with Windcharger tempting his luck first. As he walks up to the cliffside, the concealed door open up for him automatically… Only to slam shut on him, badly damaging the Autobot. The doors open up again, and the Decepticons spill out of their fortress. Thinking fast, Beachcomber shouts to Powerglide that he hopes that Rumble will not start another quake. His attempt at reverse psychology works, as Rumble laughs at the Autobots before doing just that. Rumble’s quake causes the Decepticon fortress to crumble, burying the Decepticons in a cave-in, while Beachcomber and Powerglide dash out of the quake’s range. The two of them plan to return to the ruins once the dust has settles, so to retrieve Windcharger. [[Ratchet (G1)|Ratchet]] will be able to fix him up, and the Autobots won’t have to worry about the Decepticons for a while longer.

::'''THE END'''

[[File:EarthquakePowerglideBeahccomberWindcharger.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 6|PAGE_6]]<<)''' '''''Powerglide, Beachcomber and Windcharger search for another way into the Decepticon fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 8}}(>>PAGE_8>>)''' soon finding a narrow passageway in the cliff hidden by bushes and scrub brush. {{anchor|Page 64}}'''(PAGE_64)''' At the end of the rocky passageway the Autobots discover a storage room. At the far end of it are two exits. One leads to another rocky passage just like the one the Autobots have just emerged from. The other is blocked by a door with a complicated lock. The lock proves to be a small deterrent, as Beachcomber manages to quickly disable it. Opening the door reveals a brightly lit corridor, which Powerglide insists on investigating. Windcharger, however, insists on going into the rocky passage instead. It looks like the team is splitting up.

::'''''Should Beachcomber accompany Windcharger into the rocky passage?'' (>>[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber accompany Powerglide into the brightly-lit corridor?'' (>>[[#Page 20|PAGE_20]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber set off on his own to explore another region of the fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 60|PAGE_60]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber accompanies Windcharger down the rocky passage...'' {{anchor|Page 11}}(>>PAGE_11>>)''' …soon finding their path blocked by a heavy stone doorway. The two Autobots hear faint Decepticon voices from beyond the door, but cannot tell whether they are coming from directly behind the door, or from farther within the fortress. Windcharger is eager to burst through the door and take the Decepticons by surprise. The hesitant Beachcomber would prefer to return to the storage room and seek another more secretive way into the fortress.

:::'''''Should Beachcomber return to the storage room?'' (>>[[#Page 13|PAGE_13]]>>)'''

:::'''''Should Beachcomber remain with Windcharger?'' (>>[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber leaves Windcharger to return to the storage room.'' {{anchor|Page 13}}(>>PAGE_13>>)''' But Beachcomber is scared of exploring the fortress by himself. Hoping to catch up with Powerglide, he heads back towards the brightly lit corridor. The two Autobots reunite, and commence to explore the fortress carefully. '''(>>[[#Page 20|PAGE_20]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]] OR [[#Page 13|PAGE_13]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber and Powerglide explore the corridor...'' {{anchor|Page 20}}(>>PAGE_20>>)''' pausing at each doorway to listen. Finding everything strangely silent, Beachcomber begins to question wether the element of surprise is truly on their side. But Decepticons voices become audible as they duo reach the end of the corridor. Beachcomber and Powerglide pause to listen. {{anchor|Page 16}}'''(PAGE_16)''' They overhear [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] discussing his plan with [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]. The Decepticon leader plans to wipe humanity off the face of the Earth with the aid of the "[[Destruction Beam]]" and Rumble’s earthquake-inducing abilities; the beam will create a fault line in an area, which will allow Rumble to cause massive destruction within a disaster radius. Once humanity is eradicated, the entire planet with be transformed into a massive laboratory. Afterwards, the Decepticons will return to Cybertron to reclaim as their own. The two Autobots further learn that Center City, the testing ground for this plot, will be reached by the Destruction Beam in one hour, fifty-two minutes, and thirty-seven seconds. {{anchor|Page 17}}'''(PAGE_17)''' Shocked by this discovery, Powerglide and Beachcomber race back to the fortress’s secret entrance, finding Windcharger already there. All three transform and return to Autobot headquarters. Once Optimus is informed of Megatron’s plan, the Autobots decide to split up into two groups. One will be the lead group, formed of the more powerful Autobots, and the other a smaller secondary group. But which group should be sent at which location?

::::'''''Send the lead group be sent to the fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 68|PAGE_68]]>>)'''

::::'''''Should the lead group be sent to Center City?'' (>>[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots’ lead team is sent to the Decepticons’ fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 68}}(>>PAGE_68>>)''' Amongst them is Optimus, Cosmos, Beachcomber, Brawn and [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]. Beachcomber locates the front door to the Decepticons’ fortress, and Brawn prevents them from closing while the Autobots storm the base. Though the Decepticons attempt to counter-attack, the Autobots disable them one by one. Optimus manages to get a hold of Megatron, and forces the Decepticon leader to guide him towards the Decepticons’ lab at gun-point. Beachcomber and Inferno follow them, while the battle continues to rage on behind them. {{anchor|Page 30}}'''(PAGE_30)''' Once inside the lab, Megatron shows them a monitor displaying the Destruction beam’s path towards Central City. Though Megatron ceases to cooperate when Optimus orders him to stop the beam from reaching its target, Beachcomber spots a button that causes the laser to dispel. Optimus declares: "Central City is safe, and the Decepticons are going down in history as a bunch of losers!" before sending the Destruction Beam machine to "robot heaven." The Autobots leave the fortress with Megatron as their prisoner of war, and the remaining Decepticons permanently maimed. The Autobots are later forced to release Megatron, however, in exchange with the safe release of the Autobots that were defeated in Central City while Optimus led the raid on the Decepticon base. Thoug Optimus knows the Decepticons are bound to brew more trouble, for the moment being he is happy to relax and recharge.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 17|PAGE_17]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots’ lead team is sent to Central City.'' {{anchor|Page 36}}(>>PAGE_36>>)''' But they must be careful not to surpass the speed limit by too much, lest they bring attention to themselves. Accordingly, Cosmos hides in Optimus Prime’s trailer as they head down the highway. But Cosmos is displeased with this turn of events, and complains that if he can’t even be out in the open while the Autobots travel down a deserted road, for fear of instilling panic in the humans, how will he manage to be of any use once they reach Central City. Optimus considers Cosmos argument, and pulls over to…

:::::'''''Send Cosmos back to the Decepticon fortress to help the secondary team?'' (>>[[#Page 31|PAGE_31]]>>)'''

:::::'''''Assert that Cosmos better stay with the main group?'' (>>[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeCosmosspies.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]<<)''' '''''Cosmos is sent to help out the secondary team at the Decepticon fortress.'' {{anchor|Page 31}}(>>PAGE_31>>)''' Using his communicator to ask [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] for directions, he soon happens upon the cliff concealing the Decepticon base. The base’s doors are wide open and the smaller Autobot team is nowhere to be seen, so Cosmos decides to head into the gaping doorway. He pauses before doing so, attempting to reach Smokescreen once again over the communicate to no avail. Cautiously stepping inside, Cosmos hears a door creak open… {{anchor|Page 28}}'''(PAGE_28)''' Hearing voices coming from beyond the creaking door, he ventures within and hides behind a large machine. He beholds [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and Soundwave plotting together. Starscream tells Soundwave of how Megatron has become careless as of late, even forgetting to change the coded lock on his personal chambers. Now Starscream knows how to get in, and exposits how it would be a simple matter for him and Soundwave to lie in wait in their leader’s quarters, ready to ambush when he returns. Soundwave agrees, noting how he could stun their leader with his [[Gamma ray]] and they could usurp Megatron’s leadership of the Decepticons. Having heard enough, Cosmos begins to sneak out of the room, only to bump into Megatron himself. But before Megatron has a chance to attack, Cosmos tells him that he has information which might interest him. Does Megatron...

::::::'''''Hear Cosmos out?'' (>>[[#Page 4|PAGE_4]]>>)'''

::::::'''''Disregard what the Autobot has to say?'' (>>[[#Page 39|PAGE_39]]>>)'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 28|PAGE_28]]<<)''' '''''Megatron pauses to listen to what Cosmos has to say.'' {{anchor|Page 4}}(>>PAGE_4>>)''' Cosmos divulges what he has just heard Starscream and Soundwave say, being sure to put extra drama where it suits him. Megatron is infuriated at these revelations, and strides into the generator room to deal with the traitors. Cosmos hears the entire fortress tremble as Megatron fires his [[Fusion cannon]], and quickly hides when more Decepticons rush by him towards Megatron. Soon, two groups rally in the generator room where Megatron stands, one loyal to Megatron, the other loyal to Soundwave and Starscream. As Cosmos takes off to avoid being caught in the middle of the Decepticon mutiny, he bumps into Sunstreaker, who informs Cosmos that the rest of them have found the Decepticons’ lab. {{anchor|Page 33}}'''(PAGE_33)''' Joining Inferno before the Destruction Beam machine, Cosmos tells the others of what is taking place between Decepticon ranks, and is eager to finish the Decepticons off. But Inferno advises against the lot of them staying, and soon they are all fleeing away from the fortress. Suddenly, the fortress is caught in an enormous explosion, obliterating it. Inferno tells the others that not only they succeeded in halting the Destruction Beam's progress towards Central City, but they also redirected it to return to its source. The humans never need fear the Decepticons ever again!

:::::::'''THE END'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 28|PAGE_28]]<<)''' '''''Megatron ignores Cosmos’s pleas...'' {{anchor|Page 39}}(>>PAGE_39>>)''' and informs him nothing would dissuade him from blasting the little Autobot. Pressing an alarm on the wall, Megatron calls to him the rest of the Decepticons. Cosmos’s communicator remains silent as well. All seems lost when Cosmos spots [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] and half of the secondary team behind him, running down the hallway towards the Decepticons. The other half of the team is rushing down the corridor’s opposite end, surrounding the Decepticons. Though the Autobots want to end the battle quickly to deal with the Destruction Beam, they are forced to stay and fight until the last Decepticon falls. Just then, an ear-shattering roar is emanates down the fortress’s corridors… {{anchor|Page 67}}'''(PAGE_67)''' Rushing outdoors, the Autobots witness a cloud of dust rising from Central City’s remains. Though the Autobots on location fought bravely, once the Destruction Beam reached its target, there was nothing that could stop Rumble from making the city collapse underground. The rest of the Autobots surely perished during their mission. Cosmos and company return within the Decepticon base to destroy the lab therein, but bemoan their pyrrhic victory. At least several powerful enemies have been disposed of, and Megatron no longer has a lab to aid in his attempts at conquest. But the war isn’t over, it’s just beginning.

:::::::'''THE END'''

::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 36|PAGE_36]]<<)''' '''''Optimus assures Cosmos that he should stay with the Autobots’ main team.'' {{anchor|Page 37}}(>>PAGE_37>>)''' The Autobots continue towards Central City, only taking a short detour to pick up [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]], to act as medium between themselves and the humans. Optimus informs Sparkplug about what is going on, and before the Autobots enter Central City, asks Sparkplug which course of action would be wiser to take:

::::::'''''Enter Central City as robots, risking spooking the humans into a panic?'' (>>[[#Page 34|PAGE_34]]>>)'''

::::::'''''Enter Central City as vehicles, limiting the Autobots’ combat effectiveness?'' (>>[[#Page 51|PAGE_51]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeAutobotspanickingtownfolk.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]<<)''' '''''Sparkplug advises the Autobots to enter Central City in their robot modes.'' {{anchor|Page 34}}(>>PAGE_34>>)''' Optimus and his troops enter Central City ignoring the humans’ reactions to their appearance, as they concentrate on spotting any Decepticons in the area. When they fail to see any of their enemies, Optimus decides to speak to the city’s mayor and implore him to evacuate the city. But before they reach City Hall, policemen begin to announce that Central City is under siege by giant robots and that the citizens need to find shelter. {{anchor|Page 63}}'''(PAGE_63)''' Although at first Optimus assumes that the Decepticons are the robots are the ones causing the panic, Cosmos soon figures that the robots "attacking" the city are themselves. The humans panic and run uselessly around in the streets, instead of finding shelter as they were advised. It would be impossible to find the mayor in all of this confusion now. {{anchor|Page 42}}'''(PAGE_42)''' In an attempt to appease the humans, the Autobots transform back into vehicle mode. But they’ve run out of time. The Destruction Beam hits nearby, prompting Rumble to come out of hiding and begin using his seismic abilities in the middle of the street. The resulting fissures swallow up people, cars, streets and buildings. Five Autobots are swallowed up by a gaping chasm that appears suddenly. Then [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]] appears overhead, signalling that the Autobots failed to deal with the rest of the Decepticons at the fortress. The earthquakes continue, as the rest of the city, and the last of the Autobots fall into the abyss. After the destruction comes to a halt, Megatron comes forth to inspect his handiwork. With the Autobots out of commission, the Earth is about to become a very unpleasant place for humans.

:::::::'''THE END'''

:::::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 37|PAGE_37]]<<)''' '''''Sparkplug advises the Autobots to enter Central City in their vehicle modes.'' {{anchor|Page 51}}(>>PAGE_51>>)''' Though Beachcomber doubts they will be able to accomplish much in their vehicle modes, Sparkplug claims otherwise. Being an old friend of the Mayor’s he will seek audience with him, and convince him to evacuate the city. As for the means of the evacuation, it is the Autobots that will provide it. Though they will need to make several trips, the Autobots will ferry the humans out of the city in their vehicle modes. {{anchor|Page 43}}'''(PAGE_43)''' Once inside City Hall, Sparkplug speaks urgently with Mayor Todd. He convinces the mayor that Central City is right on a fault line, and due for an Earthquake at any moment. Soon, every radio station in town is transmitting the evacuation plan to Central City’s residents, and everyone is evacuated in an orderly fashion. Meanwhile, Cosmos scouts high above, on the look-out for approaching Decepticons. As Optimus unloads his last batch at a nearby campsite, Cosmos radios him, letting him know that the Decepticons are approaching. {{anchor|Page 44}}'''(PAGE_44)''' Soon, the Destruction Beams courses down, causing a fault in the city’s foundation. Knowing that this means that the secondary team failed in their objective, the Autobots drive into the city in the hopes of stopping Rumble from completing his mission. {{anchor|Page 72}}'''(PAGE_72)''' The first Decepticons they encounter are Rumble and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]. They are quickly picked off by Optimus before more Decepticons arrive. One by one, the Decepticons are downed by the Autobots as they arrive in Central City. As the Decepticons are caught unawares, the battle is won with ease. Once the earthquake is avoided, the Autobots set out for the Decepticons’ fortress, passing by the campground where they dropped off the city’s residents. The humans see the Autobots in their robot modes, but are unafraid, having seen the Autobots’ heroic deeds. They cheer the Autobots on as they head towards the fortress to end the Decepticons once and for all!

:::::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 11|PAGE_11]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber remains with Windcharger.'' {{anchor|Page 24}}(>>PAGE_24>>)''' Though Windcharger is eager to bust down the door with his magnetic powers, Beachcomber points out a string of numbers written out on a lighted panel above the door:
::::16/21/19/8–18/5/4/—2/21/20/20/15/14
::::Beachcomber surmises that it is a code, and by cracking it they’ll be able to make it through the door. Windcharger admits he’s not great a cracking codes, however. Can [[you]] help them crack it?

::::'''''Yes.'' (>>[[#Page 18|PAGE_18]]>>)'''

::::'''''No.'' (>>[[#Page 65|PAGE_65]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots crack the code.'' {{anchor|Page 18}}(>>PAGE_18>>)''' With the puzzle solved, the Autobots open the door {{anchor|Page 25}}'''(PAGE_25)''' and step forth into an elaborate spy station. But the monitors within the room display other rooms within the Decepticons’ fortress. Windcharger reasons that Megatron uses this room to spy on his own troops. Before they investigate further, they hear footstep approaching and hide a bank of computer screens. {{anchor|Page 12}}'''(PAGE_12)''' From their hiding spot, they hear [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] announce that the "Destruction Beam" has just left the lab. Megatron is pleased at the news, and gloats that the Autobots will be unable to stop his plan. Megatron then enters the room alone, shutting the door behind him. Immediately, Windcharger and Beachcomber jump the Decepticon leader, the former disarming him with his magnetic powers. Beachcomber bluffs that the entire fortress is surrounded. He warns Megatron that the entire fortress will be destroyed with them inside unless Megatron orders his troops to surrender. Believing he has no choice, Megatron does so and agrees to show the Autobots where his lab containing the Destruction Beam machine is located. While Windcharger keeps watch over Megatron, Beachcomber quietly sends a message to Optimus for him to send the Autobots over. Central City still stands, but the Decepticons have fallen.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 24|PAGE_24]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots are unable to solve the code.'' {{anchor|Page 65}}(>>PAGE_65>>)''' Windcharger impatiently attempts to down the door with his magnetic powers instead, but only manages to make a racket. The two of them flee, but are spotted by Megatron who peers through the door just as they exit the passage. The Decepticon leader retreats back into his spy room, and takes a shortcut to the storage room, soon appearing before the two startled Autobots in his weapon form. {{anchor|Page 66}}'''(PAGE_66)''' The nuclear-charged fusion cannon blasts Windcharger and Beachcomber, leaving little remains in his shot’s wake. Powerglide does not fare much better, as he is soon captured while wandering around the fortress, and reprogrammed to lead the Decepticons back to the Autobots’ headquarters. The Autobots are caught off-guard by the attack, and though they fight well, soon only Optimus Prime remains. Megatron informs his foe that he has no plans to destroy him. Merely… alter him, so that he will become his newest weapon and ally. With his help, Megatron plans to destroy all of Earth’s cities. But Optimus would rather die than join the Decepticons, and with a last effort, initiates the self-destruct sequence for the Autobots’ base. The large explosion annihilates Optimus and all the Decepticons, bringing a sudden end to their war.

:::::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 64|PAGE_64]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber sets out to explore the fortress on his own...'' {{anchor|Page 60}}(>>PAGE_60>>)''' as he watches Powerglide charge recklessly down the lit corridor and Windcharger head back for the rocky passage. He looks around to see nothing but closed doors and more empty corridors. Opening a door, he spots [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] on the other side, and quickly fires at the Decepticon. But Dirge dodges his shot with ease, and stuns Beachcomber with a [[Concussion weapon|concussion missile]].Dirge then proceeds to dismember Beachcomber, and extract the last fifteen minutes of footage from the Autobot’s memory tape. Learning that Powerglide and Windcharger are also in the vicinity, Dirge radios Megatron, who in turn orders the Decepticons to find the other intruders. {{anchor|Page 38}}'''(PAGE_38)''' Powerglide and Windcharger are soon captured and brought before Megatron. After taunting them, Megatron order [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] to dispose of them in whatever gruesome manner he chooses. Then, taking Beachcomber’s communicator, he disguises his voice and sends a request for back-up to Autobot headquarters. Optimus responds quickly, only for him and his troops to be mowed down by the Decepticons. With the Autobots destroyed, nothing can stop the Decepticons from subjugating the Earth.

:::'''THE END'''

:'''(<<From_[[#Page 3|PAGE_3]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber decides to infiltrate the Decepticons’ fortress by himself...'' {{anchor|Page 62}}(>>PAGE_62>>)''' and cautiously steps towards the cliffside. At first he is unsure whether or not the doors will open for him. But as soon as he is in position, the automated doors slide open. Within the fortress, Beachcomber hears a humming sound and spots a dim light in the otherwise dark room. Just as he is enters, he hears humans talking nearby. He wonders if there could possibly be humans working in league with the Decepticons? As he wonders whether or not he should investigate the human voices, the doors to the fortress begin to close. They might not open for him again if he leaves. What to do?

:'''''Investigate the human voices?'' (>>[[#Page 21|PAGE_21]]>>)'''

:'''''Proceed within the Decepticon fortress?'' (>>[[#Page 14|PAGE_14]]>>)'''

::'''(<<From_[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber decides to investigate the human voices...'' {{anchor|Page 21}}(>>PAGE_21>>)''' figuring that if the doors opened for him once, they’ll do so again. Transforming into dune buggy mode, he drives towards the human voices, and encounters [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster]] and [[Jesse (G1)|Jessie]]! Buster recognizes Beachcomber despite the Autobot being in vehicle mode, and exclaims that he’s happy to see him. Jessie explains that they were exploring when they discovered the Decepticons’ fortress. Buster elaborates that they discovered a secret passage that lead within, and overheard Megatron explaining to his troops how he plans to take over the world. {{anchor|Page 22}}'''(PAGE_22)''' The Decepticons’ plan involves [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] firing the "Destruction Beam" from a lab hidden in the cliff. Afterwards, the Decepticons will employ Rumble’s seismic abilities to enlarge to fissure that the beam will create, causing a massive earthquake. Jessie further explains the beam will be tested on Central City in about an hour and a half. With this information, Beachcomber tells the two humans to hop in so he can drive them back to Autobot headquarters. But soon, Ramjet in vehicle mode appears overhead and starts attacking Beachcomber. Ramjet then transforms and quickly scoops up Jessie, flying off with her as a hostage. Beachcomber wants to proceed to Autobot headquarters to get help, but Buster pleads for him to go after Ramjet and rescue Jessie.

::'''''Should Beachcomber return to the Decepticon fortress and attempt to rescue Jessie?'' (>>[[#Page 26|PAGE_26]]>>)'''

::'''''Should Beachcomber continue back to the Autobots’ base and ask for help?'' (>>[[#Page 32|PAGE_32]]>>)'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''Buster convinces Beachcomber to go after Jessie.'' {{anchor|Page 26}}(>>PAGE_26>>)''' Beachcomber reasons that they wouldn’t be able to reach Autobot headquarters and return in an hour-and-a-half anyways. But he explains to Buster that he can’t take the fortress’s main entrance, as the Decepticons will now be expecting them. Buster reassures Beachcomber that he found the secret entrance to the Decepticons’ base once, and he’ll do so again. Once before the secret entrance, Beachcomber transforms. {{anchor|Page 27}}'''(PAGE_27)''' Venturing within, the two of them soon hear Decepticon voices, along with Jessie’s. Buster insists they follow the voices, but Beachcomber would rather hide.

:::'''''Follow the voices?'' (>>[[#Page 46|PAGE_46]]>>)'''

:::'''''Find a hiding place?'' (>>[[#Page 49|PAGE_49]]>>)'''

[[File:EarthquakeJessieKidnapped.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 27|PAGE_27]]<<)''' '''''At Buster’s insistance, Beachcomber agrees to follow the Decepticon voices.'' {{anchor|Page 46}}(>>PAGE_46>>)''' They soon spot Soundwave and [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]] locking Jessie away in a dark cell. Once the Decepticons leave, Buster and Beachcomber come out of hiding. {{anchor|Page 70}}'''(PAGE_70)''' Beachcomber and Buster reassure Jessie that they will get her out, and use a miniature laser from Beachcomber’s armament to cut open a hole in the solid steel door to Jessie’s cell. Once freed, Jessie is pleased to announce she has learned that the controls for the Destruction Beam are nearby. She is keen on finding them and save Central City. But despite their best efforts, the three of them cannot find the lab in the maze-like corridors. Pulling the humans aside, Beachcomber explains that they’re better off getting help than running around fruitlessly. {{anchor|Page 48}}'''(PAGE_48)''' Soon they are back at Autobot headquarters, where Mirage devises a plan. Beachcomber and Mirage return to the fortress, and use the secret entrance to sneak inside once more. Once there, they use Mirage’s holographic abilities to trick a passing Buzzsaw into thinking that the fortress is overrun with Autobots. After pushing an alarm, Buzzsaw rushes to the lab to guard it, but is followed by the two Autobots. Now having reached their target, the Autobots overpower Buzzsaw and destroy the lab, along with the Destruction Beam machine. The deed accomplish, the two Autobots rush outside to safety while the Decepticons scramble to defend themselves an enemy army that isn’t there.

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 27|PAGE_27]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber convinces Buster that they should hide...'' {{anchor|Page 49}}(>>PAGE_49>>)''' …and the voices soon fade into the distance. But once they are alone, both Beachcomber and Buster come to realize that they have no plan to get themselves out of this situation. Nonetheless, Beachcomber tells Buster that if they work together, they will be able to figure something out. {{anchor|Page 56}}'''(PAGE_56)''' Creeping out of their hiding place, Buster opens a nearby door slowly, only to be met by Ramjet once again. Having the duo cornered, Ramjet advances menacingly onto them. But Beachcomber tricks the dim-witted Decepticon into looking away by telling Buster other Autobots are coming down the corridor now. Once Ramjet is distracted, Beachcomber shoves his way past the Decepticon, and races off with Buster. {{anchor|Page 40}}'''(PAGE_40)''' But neither Buster or Beachcomber can find their way in the Decepticons’ maze-like fortress, and soon Megatron, Dirge, Starscream and Ramjet are all bearing down upon them. Taking the Autobot and the human prisoners, Megatron escorts the pair at gun-point to his laboratory. {{anchor|Page 7}}'''(PAGE_7)''' Megatron forces the two of them to watch a monitor displaying the beam’s progress as it hits Central City, signalling its doom. Megatron gloats of his victory before he pulls his trigger, firing upon his helpless prisoners.

::::'''THE END'''

:::'''(<<From_[[#Page 22|PAGE_22]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber drives back to Autobot base, despite Buster’s protests.'' {{anchor|Page 32}}(>>PAGE_32>>)''' Beachcomber explains that the Decepticons are unlikely to harm Jessie, as she is far more useful to them alive than dead, though Buster is still sour towards Beachcomber for his decision. Once at their headquarters, Beachcomber explains what has taken place to the Autobots, provoking a particularly strong emotional response from Brawn. Optimus leads over two-dozen Autobots back to the hills where the Decepticons’ secret fortress is located. {{anchor|Page 45}}'''(PAGE_45)''' Before reaching their destination, Optimus explains two possible course of action; either storm the front entrance by force, or sneak into the base using the secret entrance Buster and Jessie found. [Choose a number between one and ten.]

:::'''''If you chose an even number, go to:'' (>>[[#Page 57|PAGE_57]]>>)'''

:::'''''If you chose an odd number, go to:'' (>>[[#Page 54|PAGE_54]]>>)'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 45|PAGE_45]]<<)''' '''''[You chose an even number]'' {{anchor|Page 57}}(>>PAGE_57>>)''' The Autobots choose to storm the fortress through the front door. But just as Beachcomber steps before the cliffside and the doors slide open, he hesitates. Turning back, he whines to Optimus Prime that they shouldn’t fight, and that violence only begets more violence. Optimus groans at Beachcomber’s inopportune timing, but before he can issue another order, Megatron’s voice booms through the doorway. He claims that the Autobots are within the sights of an enormous Decepticon arsenal! {{anchor|Page 58}}'''(PAGE_58)''' But the Autobots have no intention of surrendering, and fight valiantly. Unfortunately, the Decepticons are on familiar turf, and soon either slay or take prisoner all of the Autobots. Basking in his victory, Megatron invites the rest of the Decepticons to come observe the destruction of Central City. He then explains to his troops that this is only the beginning. Soon, every city on Earth will fall the Destruction Beam!

::::'''THE END'''

::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 45|PAGE_45]]<<)''' '''''[You chose an odd number]'' {{anchor|Page 54}}(>>PAGE_54>>)''' The Autobots choose a stealthier approach, and let Buster lead them to the secret entrance. Once inside, Optimus instructs to attack any Decepticons they see, save Megatron, who he wants captured alive. The Autobots break up into small groups and start storming the entire fortress. One of these groups, composed of Sunstreaker, Beachcomber, Brawn, Buster and lead by Optimus himself soon find themselves in a lighted hallway lined with locked doors on either side. {{anchor|Page 71}}'''(PAGE_71)''' Before they proceed, Optimus explains that they need to focus their efforts on finding the Decepticons’ lab first. They are then accosted by Buzzsaw, [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]] and Ramjet. After a brief scuffle, the Decepticons are incapacitated, but so is Sunstreaker. Optimus sadly reasons that they need to leave him behind for now, and the squadron continues to search for the lab. They come to a branch in the hallway, and must choose to go either left or right. [You must flip a coin]

::::'''If the coin comes up heads, the Autobots take the right passageway.'' (>>[[#Page 55|PAGE_55]]>>)'''

::::'''If the coin comes up tails, the Autobots take the left passageway.'' (>>[[#Page 52|PAGE_52]]>>)'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 71|PAGE_71]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots take the right passageway...'' {{anchor|Page 55}}(>>PAGE_55>>)''' and begin heading down a corridor that seems to lead nowhere. Though there are no doors for a long stretch of the corridor, the Autobots begin to hear a faint voice as they proceed down the hallway. It’s Jessie! Finally finding themselves before a large door, Optimus breaks it down freeing the human from Decepticon captivity. Jessie tumbles into Buster’s arms, and informs the Autobots that she knows where the lab is! She leads the squad to a small red door, and tells them the controls to the Destruction Beam are within. But when the Autobots bust down the door, they find themselves surrounded by Decepticons! Megatron congratulate on her work! {{anchor|Page 50}}'''(PAGE_50)''' Jessie has been brainwashed by the Decepticons, and lead them into a trap, all according to Megatron’s plan! Taking away the Autobots’ communicators, Megatron sends Jessie out again to lure more Autobots into his trap. All the while, Optimus observes through a monitor the Destruction Beam coming into contact with Central City. Megatron takes note of this, and proudly announces that Rumble will soon be on location to finish the city in an earthquake. Megatron then orders Starscream to lock-up the Autobots. At least they aren’t being deactivated. Maybe Optimus will be able to formulate a plan? If not, this is truly…

:::::'''THE END'''

:::::'''(<<From_[[#Page 71|PAGE_71]]<<)''' '''''The Autobots take the left passageway...'' {{anchor|Page 52}}(>>PAGE_52>>)''' and soon come upon a huge door marked "LAB." A precocious Beachcomber uses his sensors to detect what awaits them behind the door. He discovers that beyond the doorway, there is nothing. A drop of at least 100 feet. A trap. Buster then spots another door hidden in the shadows, which Optimus surmises is probably the true laboratory. Calling for six more Autobots as back up first, then blasts open the hidden door. As Optimus had guessed, this is the real lab! Brawn quickly dispatches the three Decepticons within. Then, Megatron strides in, only to encounter the wrong end of Optimus Prime’s laser rifle. Optimus instructs Megatron not to move, lest the Decepticon leader wishes to be blown to bits. {{anchor|Page 59}}'''(PAGE_59)''' Optimus demands to know how to halt the Destruction Beam’s progress. Megatron points him to a red button, but Optimus catches Megatron smiling just as he is about to push it. Optimus guesses that the button would most likely activate a self-destruct sequence, and demands once more how to stop the Destruction Beam. Megatron in turn screams that he will never give Optimus that information. But Megatron betrays his intentions once more, as Optimus notices the Decepticon is staring towards a lever across the room. Optimus instructs to pull the lever, and the beam is finally disarmed. Hours later, the Decepticons have all been defeated and deactivated, and Jessie has been rescued. The Autobots later celebrate by guzzling a few quarts of fine-grade [[oil]]. Buster and Jessie enjoy super-fudge ice cream sundaes instead.

:::::'''THE END'''

[[File:EarthquakeBeachcomberdisassembled.jpg|thumb|upright=1.4]]
::'''(<<From_[[#Page 62|PAGE_62]]<<)''' '''''Beachcomber proceeds within the Decepticon fortress...'' {{anchor|Page 14}}(>>PAGE_14>>)''' and makes it within just as the doors close behind him. But as he rushes into the fortress, he finds Buzzsaw waiting for him! In an instant, Beachcomber is torn to pieces by the Decepticon! Then [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]] emerges from the shadows, and further dismantles the Autobot. He soon finds Beachcomber’s memory circuits, and then carries what is left of the Autobot to Megatron. After extracting all the useful information they can find from Beachcomber’s mind, the Decepticons hatch a new plan… {{anchor|Page 19}}'''(PAGE_19)''' Megatron calls for [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]] and [[Hook (G1)|Hook]] and instructs them to rebuild Beachcomber, with one modification. He hands the Constructicon two nearly identical chips; one being the Autobot’s original mind, the other a "Destructicon" chip. Megatron explains that the alternate chip will render Beachcomber the perfect undercover agent. However, when the time comes to reinsert Beachcomber’s memory chip, the bungling Constructicons mistakenly put the original one back in! Later, Beachcomber returns to Autobot headquarters, and informs Optimus of all that has transpired. Beachcomber also tells Optimus of all the plans that Megatron shared with him! With Beachcomber as the perfect reverse-double-agent, the Autobots are sure to defeat the Decepticons quickly!

::'''THE END'''
{{-}}

==Featured characters==
{{featuredcharacters|nonumbering=true
|c1=
* [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]
* [[Beachcomber (G1)|Beachcomber]]
* [[Sunstreaker (G1)|Sunstreaker]]
* [[Brawn (G1)|Brawn]]
* [[Mirage (G1)|Mirage]]
* [[Powerglide (G1)|Powerglide]]
* [[Cosmos (G1)|Cosmos]]
* [[Windcharger (G1)|Windcharger]]
* [[Inferno (G1)|Inferno]]
* [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]]
* [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]]

|c2=
* [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]
* [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]
* [[Soundwave (G1)|Soundwave]]
* [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]]
* [[Thundercracker (G1)|Thundercracker]]
* [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]]
* [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]]
* [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]]
* [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]]
* [[Skywarp (G1)|Skywarp]]
* [[Scrapper (G1)|Scrapper]]
* [[Mixmaster (G1)|Mixmaster]]
* [[Hook (G1)|Hook]]
* [[Thrust (G1)|Thrust]]

|c3=
* [[Sparkplug Witwicky|Sparkplug]]
* [[Buster Witwicky (G1)|Buster]]
* [[Jesse (G1)|Jessie]]
* [[Mayor Todd]]
}}

==Notes==
* Ann Matthews is a pseudonym of Ann M. Martin, who is known for creating ''{{w|The Baby-Sitters Club}}'' series.
* One of the vanishingly few appearances of Jesse (here spelled "Jessie") outside of Marvel Comics.
* Beachcomber is armed with a gun that shoots bullets. It's not especially effective, at least against the [[conehead]]s.
**Though they're never depicted as coneheads here, thanks to being toy/box-art based.
* Beachcomber's brain functions involve "memory tape". That's apparently standard for this micro-continuity-nexus, since Dirge is able to replay it (exactly how isn't explained; Soundwave and the cassettes aren't around) to gather intel after disassembling him. Dirge specifically replays "the last 15 minutes", implying he considers that the equivalent of Transformer short-term memory. This also implies that a Transformer's brain is much larger here than in most major continuities.
* Ratchet and Laserbeak are mentioned by other characters, but don't appear in a story path proper.
* This book was available individually, or as part of a six-book box set with the other five "pre-Movie era" books in the series.
===Errors===
* On page 62, there is a typo; "Quick" is mispelt as "Ouick."

==External links==
*[http://www.gamebooks.org/show_item.php?id=1147 Earthquake on Demian's Gamebook Web Page]

*[https://toyhax.com/FYF/ Screenshot of Ann M. Martin confirming that she wrote this issue]
[[Category:Generation 1 multipath adventures]]