Quest for the AllSpark

This article is about the Transformers Animated multipath adventure book. For the 2007 movie tie-in book, see The Quest for the AllSpark. For other "Quests", see Quest (disambiguation).

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"Quest for the AllSpark"
Publisher	HarperCollins Publishers
Imprint	HarperCollins Children's Books
Published in	United Kingdom
First published	January 5, 2009
Written by	Colin Brake
Continuity	Transformers Animated cartoon
ISBN	0007298919 978-0007298914
Page count	128
Price	£4.99

When Megatron takes control of the machinery in the Autobot base, the Autobots hatch a plan to keep the AllSpark safe.

Synopsis

Page 1

Walking off the field after baseball practice, you notice Sari Sumdac, sitting looking upset.

Talk to Sari? page 16

Decide to not intrude? page 46

Page 16

(From page 1)

You talk to Sari.

You manage to startle her, as she is lost in her own thoughts before you get her attention. You ask her if her disposition has anything to do with the Autobots, and her reaction confirms your suspicions.

Does Sari nod and talk to you about her predicament? page 26

Does she instead run off crying? page 61

Page 26

(From page 16)

Sari explains why she is sad.

Sari tells you that the Autobots have gone missing without telling her, and decides to go check their secret factory base. She asks if you want to join in her search.

Go with Sari? page 74

Tell her you’re not sure you want to come? page 47

Page 74

(From page 26)

You accompany Sari to the Autobots’ base.

Sari makes you promise to never reveal the location of the Autobots’ secret base to anyone. The two of you then take the subway, and then continue on foot towards the abandoned auto plant. As you near the Autobots’ headquarters, you catch movement from the corner of your eye. You ask Sari if she has also seen something.

She has. page 87

She hasn’t. page 98

Page 87

(From page 47 or page 74)

Sari confirms she saw something move as well...

But simply points to a robot street cleaner as the culprit. You are unconvinced that it was the slow-moving street cleaner that you saw. Suddenly, Sari’s key begins to vibrate, indicating that either an Autobot or a Decepticon is nearby. You turn to see the street cleaner darting towards the both of you.

Get sucked up by the machine? page 15

Turn and run from the machine? page 37

Page 15

(From page 87 or page 98)

The street cleaner robot catches you.

As you are dragged into the machine’s hose, Sari stares at the spectacle, frozen with fear. You manage to grab a nearby lamppost, and hold on desperately. The robot’s suction power increases, and you feel your grip loosening. Then, in a blur of motion, a vehicle barrels down the street and begins to change shape...

Do you think it is an Autrobot? page 39

Do you think it is a Decepticon? page 62

Page 39

(From page 15 or page 31 or page 37 or page 41)

You assume the Transformer is an Autobot.

It turns out to be Bumblebee, who comes to the rescue and destroys the cleaning robot. Bumblebee then asks if you are alright, and you affirm that you are unharmed.

Were you attacked on the street? page 17

Were you attacked within the factory? page 69

Page 17

(From page 39 or page 62)

Bumblebee and Sari take you inside the Autobots’ headquarters.

‘Bee explains that Megatron has taken control of the city’s ‘bot workforce and attacked the Autobots. To keep the AllSpark safe, Optimus Prime and Ratchet came up with a plan — send the Autobots out with boxes containing the AllSpark and four convincing fakes to be hidden. The others have failed to return to the base.

Is Sari the first to come up with an idea? page 54

Are you the first to come up with an idea? page 21

Page 54

(From page 17)

Sari suggests that Bumblebee use the base’s communication equipment to reach the others.

He does so, though he needs to expend a little energy in order to boost the communication equipment’s power; Megatron is attempting to jam the Autobots’ signals. He manages to get through to another Autobot...

Is it Ratchet? page 80

Is it Prowl? page 30

Page 80

(From page 21 or page 54 or page 69)

Using the communications gear, you contact Ratchet.

Ratchet says he was attacked as soon as he set foot in Paris, and was unsuccessful in hiding his box from the Decepticons. He instructs you to go and find Bulkhead...

In New York? page 55

In Los Angeles? page 3

Page 55

(From page 30 or page 80)

You head to New York.

Bumblebee gets you there in no time. As Bumblebee drives over a bridge linking Manhattan island to the mainland, Sari ponders how you’ll find Bulkhead, as the city is enormous. After briefly looking around, Bumblebee points towards something in the distance...

Is it a plume of black smoke? page 32

Is it a huge fountain of flames? page 6

Page 32

(From page 3 or page 55)

Bumblebee points out the massive plume of smoke rising from a rapidly burning building.

Bumblebee deduces that Bulkhead has something to do with the burning building, and changes back into vehicle mode to take you and Sari to the scene. Sari asks a nearby policeman on what is happening, and the officer confirms that the fire is a result of a fight between robots. The officer then claims that the building could collapse at any time.

Does Bulkhead charge out of the building? page 53

Does Bumblebee head into the building to save his friend? page 25

Page 53

(From page 6 or page 32)

Bulkhead charges out of the burning building...

and attacks Bumblebee, claiming his teammate is a fake. Bumblebee gets battered around by Bulkhead, and Sari demands to know how Bulkhead got into his head that there would be a false Bumblebee running around. A voice claims responsibility for convincing Bulkhead of the idea...

Is the speaker a human? page 73

Is the speaker another robot? page 24

Page 73

(From page 25 or page 53)

A human claims responsibility for convincing Bulkhead that Bumblebee is a fake...

The human is Professor Heinz Von Furstwartz who has a machine that analyses the origin of machine components. He further claims that his machine confirms that Bumblebee is a fake.

Ask for a demonstration from the professor? page 36

Does Bulkhead attack Bumblebee again? page 79

Page 36

(From page 73)

You ask for a demonstration from the professor’s machine.

The professor reminds you that the Autobots were created off-world, on another planet. He explains that his device shows that Bumblebee was created from parts manufactured in the United States. Bulkhead chimes in that Bumblebee was probably created by Megatron. Sari insists that she knows that the Bumblebee before you is the genuine article, and pleads that you do not listen to the professor.

Do you believe what Sari is saying? page 66

Do you believe what the professor is saying? page 18

Page 66

(From page 3 or page 36 or page 79)

You decide to trust Sari’s judgement.

The professor does not relent in goading on Bulkhead to destroy Bumblebee, however. Both you and Sari notice that he is fiddling about with the controls of his so-called scanner. You and Sari nod in agreement that the device must be the key to what is really happening. The two of you manage to get it away from the professor. Sari then lifts up the device, and shouts at Bumblebee to destroy it.

Does Bumblebee manage to make the shot? page 40

Does Bulkhead get in the way? page 14

Page 40

(From page 18 or page 66)

Bumblebee fires at the device with his stingers.

The professor manages to grab it once more, however, and pulls it clear of the energy blast. The two of you manage to wrestle it away from his grip once again, and Bumblebee lands a shot that breaks it apart. As soon as the device is destroyed, Bulkhead holds his hands to his head in pain before returning to his normal self. The Professor attempts to flee, but is caught by Bumblebee. Bulkhead retrieves his box from the building he nearly destroy while under the control of the professor. As the professor is being cuffed by police bots, he admits that he built the device with the help of a woman he met online. A woman named Meg A. Tron.

Does Bulkhead’s box contain the real Allspark? page 10

Does Bulkhead’s box contain a fake Allspark? page 50

Page 10

(From page 4 or page 14 or page 40 or page 56)

Bulkhead checks his box and finds it contains the real Allspark.

Optimus, Ratchet and Prowl then arrive on-scene. Optimus congratulate his crew on uncovering what Megatron’s latest ploy was. Now that they know what the device is, they will be able to protect themselves against its effects. You ask Optimus what he will do with the Allspark, and he explains that the Autobots will keep it at their base. The Autobots thank you for your help in the adventure, and you are sent back home.

THE END

Page 50

(From page 4 or page 14 or page 40 or page 56)

Bulkhead checks his box and realises he’s been carrying a fake AllSpark.

Prowl rendezvous with you, having concealed his box. He admits that he does not know how Ratchet and Optimus fared.

Do you receive a communication from Ratchet?’‘ page 100

Do you receive a communication from Optimus?’‘ page 78

Page 100

(From page 42 or page 50 or page 85)

Sari is contacted by Ratchet.

Ratchet tells your group that you need to rendezvous with him and Optimus, but he cannot divulge his location, as the line is not secure. He gives you a riddle to solve in order to find the meeting point: “When is a door not a door?"

Do you know the answer to the riddle? page 76

Do you let Sari solve the riddle? page 91

Page 76

(From page 100)

You solve the riddle.

You explain to Bulkhead that a door is not a door when it’s “ajar.” From your answer, Sari extrapolates that the meeting place must be the Jam Jar, a music club.

Head to the Jam Jar together?’‘ page 84

Split up? page 35

Page 84

(From page 76 or page 91)

You head to the club together.

Although it is closed for refurbishment, the front door is unlocked. Anticipating trouble, Prowl suggests the group enters the club in two waves. Prowl and Bulkhead will seek out a rear entrance while Bumblebee goes through the front. As you follow Bumblebee into the building, you hear the sound of a battle nearby. A pair of doors suddenly burst open.

Have you met Crush-A earlier? page 77

Have you not encountered Crush-A yet? page 70

Page 77

(From page 35 or page 84)

Prowl emerges through the doors.

He tells Bumblebee to come over and help, and you and Sari follow after them. In the club’s main room, the Autobots are fighting a losing battle against Crush-A, the maintenance bot. Crush-A demands the Allspark while pinning Optimus to the ground with a massive hand.

Do you come up with an idea to help the Autobots? page 44

Does Sari come up with an idea to help the Autobots? page 63

Page 44

(From page 19 or page 27 or page 70 or page 77)

You come up with an idea to help the Autobots.

You note that the ‘bot is getting stronger as the fight continues, and realize that he is absorbing the energy of the blasts thrown at him. You point this out to Sari, and explain that it might be possible to overload the ‘bot. Bumblebee crashes near you two, and you explain your theory to the Autobot. Bumblebee agrees to give it a shock, and after warning you never to do what he is about to do, sticks his finger in an electrical socket, super-charging his weapons. He then blasts the ‘bot with his stingers, which overloads it, just as planned. As it lies defeated at the Autobots’ feet, Optimus explains that the Allspark was never in any danger; all of the boxes given to the Autobots contained fake Allsparks.

Are you in the library? page 105

Are you in the nightclub? page 103

Page 105

(From page 44 or page 63)

You step out of the library, into the night.

Optimus thanks both you and Sari for your help and bravery. He explains to you that the Autobots used the fake Allsparks to draw out their enemies, and their plan worked. But now both you and Sari should be heading home. Bumblebee takes both you and Sari home.

THE END

Page 103

(From page 44 or page 63)

You ask Optimus about the whereabouts of the real Allspark.

Optimus explains that it was never moved, and that the decoys were used to draw out their enemies. He then thanks both you and Sari for your invaluable help on the mission. Bumblebee then volunteers to bring both you and Sari back home.

THE END

Page 63

(From page 19 or page 27 or page 70 or page 77)

Sari comes up with an idea to help the Autobots.

She notes that there is something off in Crush-A’s movements. You both realize that Crush-A is not an independent ‘bot, but is being remote-controlled. As the controller would need to be nearby to control Crush-A, you and Sari start looking around for a suitable vantage point. You spot a glass-walled room overlooking the area. Bumblebee comes tumbling towards you, having been tossed by Crush-A. You tell him of what you’ve uncovered, and Bumblebee takes off towards the glass room. Crush-A soon ceases all motions, and Bumblebee returns with an angry man in hand. It is Doctor Cornelius Lighthouse, who claims to have nearly succeeded in unlocking the secrets to the Allspark. Optimus explains that there was never any real threat to the Allspark, however. All of the boxes the Autobots carried had fakes inside of them. The Police arrive and take Lighthouse away.

Are you in the library? page 105

Are you in the nightclub? page 103

Page 70

(From page 35 or page 84)

Optimus Prime emerges through the doors.

He tells Bumblebee to come over and help, and you and Sari follow after them. In the club’s main room, the Autobots are fighting a losing battle against a maintenance bot. It calls itself Crush-A, and gloats that it will claim the Allspark for Megatron and the Decepticons. Ratchet attempts an attack on Crush-A, but is upended by the maintenance bot. Sari exclaims that the two of you need to help the Autobot.

Do you come up with an idea to help the Autobots? page 44

Does Sari come up with an idea to help the Autobots? page 63

Page 35

(From page 76 or page 91)

The Autobots split up

Prowl suggests that Bumblebee approach the club from the front, while he and Bulkhead approach it from the rear. When you, Sari and Bumblebee arrive at the club, you find it closed. Bumblebee nonetheless tries the front door, and finds it unlocked. As you enter the club’s foyer area, Sari notices a ruckus coming from beyond a couple of doors. Just then, the doors fly open.

Have you met Crush-A earlier? page 77

Have you not encountered Crush-A yet? page 70

Page 91

(From page 100)

Sari solves the riddle.

She explain to Bulkhead that a door is not a door when it’s “ajar.” Although the Autobots are confused by the play on words, you catch on to Sari’s meaning immediately. From her answer, you and Sari extrapolates that the meeting place must be the Jam Jar, a music club.

Head to the Jam Jar together? page 84

Split up? page 35

Page 78

(From page 42 or page 50 or page 85)

Sari is contacted by Optimus.

Optimus tells Sari that he and Ratchet are in need of back-up, but he cannot divulge his location on an open channel, as it is not secure. He gives her the riddle "what’s black and white and read all over?” to solve as a clue to their location.

Do you know the answer to the riddle? page 93

Do you let Sari solve the riddle? page 34

Page 93

(From page 78)

You solve Optimus’s riddle.

The answer is a book, as it is printed in black and white, and it is “read” all over. Sari is confused by the answer, as there are many book stores in the city. You point out that there is only one Central Library, however. Bumblebee is eager to speed off to the library, but Prowl advises caution. Your group is meant to be back up, and can;t be of much help if you run into trouble before reaching Optimus. Bulkhead points out that Crush-A is also still on the loose.

Does Prowl suggest a strategy? page 64

Go directly to the library? page 28

Page 64

(From page 34 or page 93)

Prowl splits the group into two teams.

Prowl and Bulkhead are to approach the library from the front while you, Sari and Bumblebee are to attempt to find a rear entrance to the building. Arriving at your destination, Sari spots an open window through which you and Sari manage to enter the library through with Bumblebee’s help. Bumblebee himself is unable to fit through it, and you promise to open a door for him as soon as possible. As you walk into the library, you happen upon a familiar figure.

Have you met Crush-A earlier? page 19

Have you not met Crush-A yet? page 27

Page 19

(From page 28 or page 64)

You and Sari come upon Crush-A, holding one of the Allspark boxes.

Then Bumblebee zooms in, and blasts the box out of Crush-A’s grip. Sari asks how Bumblebee got in, and the Autobot explains that Optimus, Prowl, Bulkhead and Ratchet let him in. The Autobots then begin their attack on the maintenance bot. Sari wants to help out her friends somehow.

Do you have an idea on how to help the Autobots? page 44

Does Sari come up with a way to help the Autobots? page 63

Page 27

(From page 28 or page 64)

You and Sari come upon Optimus Prime, holding one of the Allspark boxes.

Optimus is then knocked aside by a maintenance bot calling itself Crush-A, who grabs the Allspark box. Suddenly, the rest of the Autobots are on-scene, and they begin to battle the formidable robot. Crush-A only seems to become stronger as the fight progresses however. The Autobots need your help.

Do you have an idea on how to help the Autobots? page 44

Does Sari come up with a way to help the Autobots? page 63

Page 28

(From page 34 or page 93)

Your group arrive at the library.

The building is closed for the night, and there is no immediate sign of Optimus Prime being around. Prowl suggests that the group split up; Bumblebee Sari and yourself will attempt to find a way in through the back while he and Bulkhead attempt the front entrance. Behind the library, you and Sari manage to enter the building through an open window, though it is too small for Bumblebee. You promise to open a door for him as soon as you can. As you walk in the dark library, you hear a commotion up ahead.

Have you met Crush-A earlier? page 19

Have you not met Crush-A yet? page 27

Page 34

(From page 78)

Sari solves Optimus’s riddle.

The answer is a book or a newspaper, as they are printed in black and white, and are “read” all over. Bulkhead and Bumblebee are confused by the answer, as there are many places to get newspapers and books in the city. You point out that there is only one Central Library, however. Bumblebee is eager to speed off to the library, but Prowl advises caution. Your group is meant to be back up, and can;t be of much help if you run into trouble before reaching Optimus. Bulkhead points out that Crush-A is also still on the loose.

Does Prowl suggest a strategy? page 64

Go directly to the library? page 28

Page 14

(From page 18 or page 66)

Bulkhead gets between Bumblebee and the Professor’s device.

His first blast having been intercepted, Bumblebee manages to destroy the device by having his shot ricochet off a nearby wall. As soon as the device is destroyed, Bulkhead returns to his normal self. The Professor attempts to flee, but is caught by Bumblebee. Bulkhead retrieves his box from the building he nearly destroy while under the control of the professor. Held captive by Bumblebee, the Professor admits that he built the device with the help of a woman he met online. A scientist named Meg A. Tron. Bulkhead decides to check the content of his box just in case.

Does Bulkhead’s box contain the real Allspark? page 10

Does Bulkhead’s box contain a fake Allspark? page 50

Page 18

(From page 36 or page 79)

You tell Sari that you can’t argue with science.

But as the professor orders Bulkhead to destroy the “fake,” you notice that his fingers are busy at work on the controls of his device. Realizing that the device must be something other than a scanner, you snatch it away from the Professor, and hold it up in the air, telling Bumblebee to blast it.

Does Bumblebee manage to make the shot? page 40

Does Bulkhead get in the way? page 14

Page 79

(From page 73)

Bulkhead suddenly leaps forwards, ready for action.

But Sari stands between Bulkhead and Bumblebee, pleading them to stop fighting. Thankfully, Bulkhead stops dead in his tracks. Sari asks the Professor if there is any chance that his device has made a mistake, but the Professor insists that his scans confirm that Bumblebee was built in Detroit. Both are convinced that they are right, and you must make a decision.

Do you believe what Sari is saying? page 66

Do you believe what the professor is saying? page 18

Page 24

(From page 25 or page 53)

The speaker is a sort of gardening bot.

As it comes into Bumblebee’s view, Bumblebee talks to it as though it is Optimus Prime. The gardening bot tells Bumblebee that something fried Bulkhead’s circuits, and that Bumblebee must help take him down. You and Sari look at one anything in confusion as you realize that Bumblebee and Bulkhead must be under some sort of illusion that only affects robots. You both agree that the Autobots must be stopped before they destroy one another. Sari tells you that the Autobots would never deliberately harm a human, and says she’ll deal with Bumblebee while you head for Bulkhead.

Do you agree to Sari’s plan? page 43

Do you disagree with Sari’s plan? page 9

Page 43

(From page 24)

You agree to play your part in Sari’s plan.

You run up to Bulkhead, and tell him that though he is seeing Prime before him, the real Optimus is not really here. Sari attempts to tell Bumblebee the same thing. Then you notice that the stranger bot is holding a strange device in its hands. You deduce that the device is what is causing the illusion, and call out to Sari to grab it. The stranger tells you to be silent.

Does Bulkhead hit the stranger? page 22

Does Bumblebee blast the stranger? page 49

Page 22

(From page 9 or page 43)

Bulkhead knocks the stranger off his feet with his wrecking ball.

Though he attempts to beat the stranger down, Bulkhead is unable to land another hit on him. Sari pleads with Bumblebee to help Bulkhead, but Bumblebee is still convinced that he is seeing Prime before him. Bulkhead insists that it couldn’t be Prime, as he would never speak to Sari or one of her friends with the tone he just used. Bumblebee is convinced just as Bulkhead manages to hit the rod device out of the stranger’s grip.

Does Bumblebee catch the rod? page 4

Does the rod fall to the floor? page 56

Page 4

(From page 22 or page 49)

Bumblebee catches the rod.

Bumblebee then snaps it in half and blasts each piece. As the rod melts into slag, the illusion is dispelled. No longer hesitating, Bulkhead manages to knock off the bot’s head, deactivating it completely. Bumblebee then inspects the downed robot, noticing Decepticon circuitry inside of it. As the current location is compromised, Bulkhead decides to fetch his Allspark box from its hiding place. When he returns you suggest to check if it’s the real Allspark or not. The others agree.

Does the box contain the real Allspark? page 10

Does the box contain a fake? page 50

Page 56

(From page 22 or page 49)

The rod falls to the ground.

Both Bumblebee and the stranger leap for the device, tumbling atop one another in a mad scramble. Out of the chaos, the rod rolls to your feet. You throw it to Bulkhead, who snaps it in half, much to the stranger’s dismay. The stranger makes an attempt for the two halves of the device, but Bumblebee shoots them, and melts them into slag. The stranger hesitates, not knowing quite what to do, only for Bulkhead to smash him with a massive fist. Bulkhead then inspects the downed robot, noticing Decepticon circuitry inside of it. As the current location is compromised, Bulkhead decides to fetch his Allspark box from its hiding place. When he returns Bumblebee suggests to check if it’s the real Allspark or not.

Does the box contain the real Allspark? page 10

Does the box contain a fake? page 50

Page 49

(From page 9 or page 43)

Bumblebee blasts at the stranger.

Though Bumblebee’s blast was aimed at the device in the stranger’s grip, the stranger manages to twist his body to avoid the shot. Bumblebee asks for Bulkhead’s help, who is still confused over the whole situation. Bumblebee argues that if it really was Optimus before them, he wouldn’t be fighting them. As Bulkhead puzzles out the situation, you leap forward and knock the rod from the strangers’ grip.

Does Bumblebee catch the rod? page 4

Does the rod fall to the floor? page 56

Page 9

(From page 24)

You disagree with Sari’s plan, and insist that you’ll deal with Bumblebee while she deals with Bulkhead.

You run up to Bumblebee as the gardening bot is helping him to his feet. Bumblebee is confused by “Optimus’s” order to help him stop Bulkhead, and you run up to the both of them, yelling to Bumblebee that he is being tricked. The gardening bot turns to you and growls in anger to keep out of the way. Bumblebee is taken aback by the exchange.

Does Bulkhead hit the stranger? page 22

Does Bumblebee blast the stranger? page 49

Page 25

(From page 6 or page 32)

Bumblebee rushes towards the burning building...

but finds himself unable to enter it due to the extreme heat. Bumblebee decides to attempt putting out the fire first. He asks the Fire Engine bots to move back, then races around the building at incredible speed, creating a vacuum that deprives the fire of oxygen, extinguishing it. Bumblebee then makes another attempt for the building, only to be knocked back by a wrecking ball. Bulkhead emerges from the building. Sari asks Bulkhead what he is doing to Bumblebee, only for Bulkhead to tell her that Bumblebee is an impostor. You ask how Bulkhead came to that conclusion, only for a new voice to tell you that he gave Bulkhead that information.

Is the speaker a human? page 73

Is the speaker another robot? page 24

Page 6

(From page 55)

Bumblebee points out a massive column of fire rising from a building.

Bumblebee drops you and Sari off nearby then Transforms and approaches the fire chief to ask him what caused the fire. The fire chief suggests Bumblebee take a look for himself.

Does Bulkhead charge out of the building? page 53

Does Bumblebee head into the building to save his friend? page 25

Page 3

(From page 30 or page 80)

You head for Los Angeles.

Bumblebee gets you there in no time. You then ask Bumblebee how he plans to find Bulkhead. Bumblebee points towards something in the distance...

Is it a plume of black smoke? page 32

Is it a huge fountain of flames? page 6

Page 30

(From page 21 or page 54 or page 69)

Using the communications gear, you contact Prowl.

As soon as the connection is established, Prowl demands to know who you are. Bumblebee and Sari assure Prowl that you are a friend. Prowl informs your group that he has not been able to establish contact with anyone else since the mission began, and that he is on his way back from Texas. Prowl suggests that they all meet up at Bulkhead’s destination. You ask where you are headed and Bumblebee answers that Bulkhead was sent...

To New York? page 55

To Los Angeles? page 3

Page 21

(From page 17)

You suggest that Bumblebee use the base’s communication equipment to reach the others.

He does so, though he needs to expend a little energy in order to boost the communication equipment’s power; Megatron is attempting to jam the Autobots’ signals. He manages to get through to another Autobot...

Is it Ratchet? page 80

Is it Prowl? page 30

Page 69

(From page 39 or page 62)

Bumblebee makes sure that the robot has been deactivated.

He then explains the situation to you and Sari: Megatron had found a way to install override control circuits in many City Authority Bots, and was planning to use them to launch a major attack on the Autobots. The Autobots took the Allspark and four fake duplicates, and hid them in boxes, which were then randomly distributed to the Autobots to be hidden in different locations. Bumblebee successfully hid his box, but the other Autobots have yet to return to base as they were supposed to. Suddenly, the nearby view screen crackles to life, and an Autobot appears on it...

Is it Ratchet? page 80

Is it Prowl? page 30

Page 62

(From page 15 or page 31 or page 37 or page 41)

You assume the Transformer is a Decepticon.

But you soon realize your mistake as it turns out to be Bumblebee. With a quick blast and a few quips, he disables the cleaning robot and rescues you. Bumblebee then asks if you are alright.

Were you attacked on the street? page 17

Were you attacked within the factory? page 69

Page 37

(From page 87 or page 98)

You run from the street cleaning bot.

As you and Sari try to escape it, you turn to see that it is catching up with you. The bot’s vacuum hose looms over you, and you make a desperate grab at a nearby fire hydrant to prevent yourself from being sucked up. As you struggle, another vehicle skids to a halt nearby and begins to change...

Do you think it is an Autrobot? page 39

Do you think it is a Decepticon? page 62

Page 98

(From page 47 or page 74)

Sari tells you she didn’t see anything.

Then, the key around her neck begins to glow. She explains that it signifies that either an Autobot or a Decepticon is nearby. You look about, and see a street cleaning robot slowly moving in your direction. As it passes by you, the robot arm controlling the vacuum pipe suddenly swings towards you.

Get sucked up by the machine? page 15

Turn and run from the machine? page 37

Page 47

(From page 26)

You tell Sari you’re not sure you want to come.

As soon as she tells you that you’ll get to meet the Autobot, you change your mind. Although you are definitely more excited to meet some Autobots then others (Ratchet seems really moody to you). After you promise to keep the Autobots’ base’s location a secret, she takes you to old downtown Detroit. As you follow Sari, you sense something moving behind you, and whirl around to catch a glimpse of it. But the street behind you is empty. You ask Sari if she saw something move.

She has. page 87

She hasn’t. page 98

Page 61

(From page 16)

Sari runs off crying.

You run after her and apologize for making her cry. She admits its not your fault, and that she is simply worried since she hasn’t seen the Autobots for days. You suggest Sari look around at the Autobot base to see if they left her a note. Sari’s mood improves upon hearing your idea, and she invites you to come with her. You ask her if she is sure she wants to bring you along.

Does Sari insist? page 11

Does Sari hesitate? page 95

Page 11

(From page 61)

Sari insists you come along.

After all, the district she is headed to isn’t the nicest in town, and it’d be nice to have some company, she explains. After a half-hour Subway ride, you see what she meant. The area is filled with disused and crumbling factories. She heads for one building, unlocks a door, and gestures for you to get in.

Do you go in first? page 59

Do you let Sari go in first? page 75

Page 59

(From page 11 or page 95)

You enter the factory first.

Sari pushes you along a dark passage way, until you reach a door that opens up into a wider area. Sari then starts walking by your side. er key begins to glow, but she finds it odd, as the lights would be on if the Autobots were at home. Then, you hear the sound of a motor engine nearby.

Does Sari run towards the sound? page 29

Do you take more caution? page 97

Page 29

(From page 59 or page 75)

Sari runs towards the sound.

She is excited as she believes the Autobots have returned, but you are not sure yourself. Moving with more caution, you walk in the same direction Sari took. You walk about in the darkness silently when something comes hurtling towards you.

Is it Sari? page 41

Is it a robot? page 31

Page 41

(From page 29 or page 97)

Sari bumps into you.

She exclaims that the source of the sound is not an Autobot after all. Then, you are both bathed in the light from a massive headlights. An industrial-scale cleaning robot rumbles towards you. The bot’s suction tube stretches towards you and begins to suck you up, and you grab something nearby to prevent yourself from being taken. Then, you hear the roar of another engine entering the room.

Do you think it’s an Autobot? page 39

Do you think it’s a Decepticon? page 62

Page 31

(From page 29 or page 97)

A robot emerges from the darkness.

Its headlights blind you, and you hear Sari telling you to run. The machine before you is an industrial-sized cleaning robot, and its vacuum-tube looms in your direction, threatening to suck you up. Then, another vehicle screeches to a halt nearby and begins to change shape...

Do you think it’s an Autobot? page 39

Do you think it’s a Decepticon? page 62

Page 97

(From page 59 or page 75)

You remind Sari that the engine could either be an Autobot or a Decepticon.

Sari recalls Ratchet’s advice to not to jump to conclusions too quickly, and agrees that you both need to be stealthy. As you enter the base’s main living area, you split up to encircle the source of the noise. Then, something begins to hurtle towards you from the darkness.

Is it Sari? page 41

Is it a robot? page 31

Page 75

(From page 11 or page 95)

You let Sari enter the factory first.

She tells you to be careful, as the lights are out. As you both make your way towards the main living area, Sari points out how strange it is that the lights are off. Then, you both hear an engine nearby.

Does Sari run towards the sound? page 29

Do you take more caution? page 97

Page 95

(From page 61)

Sari hesitates.

She says that there might be danger ahead, and so you suggest that maybe she should have company after all. Sari agrees, and leads you to an abandoned factory in Detroit’s old industrial area. Opening the door, Sari tells you to enter the building.

Do you go in first? page 59

Do you let Sari go in first? page 75

Page 46

(From page 1)

You decide not to bother Sari.

As you make your way to the bus stop, you hear Sari sobbing and decide that you simply can’t ignore her. You find out that Sari is upset because she received a note from the Autobots telling her to keep away from them, but can’t make sense of why they don’t want her around.

Does Sari show you the message? page 58

Does she relate to you what the Autobot said in her own words? page 89

Page 58

(From page 46)

Sari shows you the Autobots’ message.

She passes her personal computer to you, and on it a wonky picture of Bumblebee tells Sari to stay away from the Autobots. The video seems off to you, and after you point it out to her, Sari agrees. You suggest that the message might be a trick to keep her away.

Does Sari agree? page 52

Does Sari disagree? page 20

Page 52

(From page 58 or page 89)

Sari agrees that the message might be a trick.

The two of you puzzle out that whoever sent the fake message probably wanted to keep Sari’s key away from the Autobots. Sari figures that since whoever sent the message doesn’t want the Autobots to be able to repair themselves, they must be trouble.

Does Sari take you to the Autobots’ base? page 94

Does Sari hesitate to bring you with her? page 81

Page 94

(From page 52)

Sari agrees to take you to the Autobots’ base.

After a ride on the subway, you find yourself in the old industrial area of Detroit. You look around and ask Sari why the Autobots would want to live in this decrepit neighbourhood, only to find that she isn’t next to you anymore.

Call out Sari’s name? page 7

Turn around? page 68

Page 7

(From page 81 or page 94)

You call out for Sari.

Sari rattles a nearby chain-link fence, and you realize she is on the other side. She directs you to a gap in the fence. The two of you then quietly make your way to the Autobots’ base. Sari warns you that there might be Decepticons nearby, and you look about for any movement.

Do you think you can see a vehicle parked in the street? page 48

Do you think you can see a man? page 12

Page 48

(From page 7 or page 33 or page 38 or page 51 or page 68)

You think you see a vehicle parked nearby.

Which is odd, since you thought the street was empty a moment ago. You call over to Sari, but find that the vehicle is gone when you look again. Then, a bright yellow car skids to a halt before you, and pops open its doors. Sari tells you to get in. She introduces you to Bumblebee, who explains that Megatron has taken control of the Autobot base, and the Autobots have headed out to protect the Allspark. Each Autobot took a box containing a replica of the Allspark to hid in a different location. Only one of the boxes contained the genuine article. Bumblebee hid his box, but none of the others have made it back to their meeting spot.

Do you have an idea on what to do next? page 83

Does Sari suggest what to do next? page 92

Page 83

(From page 12 or page 48)

You suggest Bumblebee go looking for the other Autobots at the locations they were sent to.

Bumblebee agrees with your plan, and decides to look at Bulkhead’s favourite places in the city.

Do you decide to go to the Art Gallery? page 102

Do you decide to the Sculpture Park? page 45

Page 102

(From page 83 or page 92)

You head for the Art Gallery.

As you pull up to the building, an alarm begins to sound.

Are the main doors knocked out? page 99

Does something smash through a window? page 72

Page 99

(From page 83)

The Art Gallery’s doors come flying off their hinges and fly towards you.

Bumblebee whisks both you and Sari off your feet and out of harm’s way. From the smoke billowing out of the Art Gallery, a figure emerges. Though Sari mistakes it for Bulkhead at first, it is a different robot entirely. In one of its massive hands, the bot is holding a box.

Does the strange robot speak to you? page 67

Does Bulkhead appear behind the robot? page 60

Page 67

(From page 72 or page 99)

The robot begin to speak to you.

It introduces itself as “Crush-A” a begins to threaten you. Sari points out that Crush-A is holding an Allspark box. Bumblebee leaves you and Sari at a safe distance and moves in towards Crush-A. As Crush-A begins to taunt the little Autobot, Bulkhead appears behind him.

Does Bumblebee reply to Crush-A’s taunts? page 42

Does Bulkhead reply to Crush-A’s taunts? page 85

Page 42

(From page 60 or page 67)

Bumblebee tells Crush-A that he’ll take him down.

Bumblebee manages to snatch the box from Crush-As grip, and throws it to Bulkhead. Using some nearby rope, Bumblebee and Bulkhead tie up Crush-A an send him crashing to the floor. In the meantime, Sari checks the box, and discovers that it contains a fake Allspark. In a flash of light, Crush-A disappears, leaving the rope coils to fall to the ground. Then, Prowl arrives on the scene.

Do you get a message from Ratchet? page 100

Do you get a message from Prime? page 78

Page 85

(From page 60 or page 67)

Bulkhead tells Crush-A that he’ll stop him.

Though Bulkhead attempts to knock Crush-A to the ground, Crush-A manages to stay upright, and knocks Bulkhead down. Bumblebee joins the fight and together, he and Bulkhead manage to defeat Crush-A. Bulkhead checks his box, and finds out that it contains a fake Allspark. Crush-A then disappears in a flash of blue light. Prowl then appears.

Do you get a message from Ratchet? page 100

Do you get a message from Prime? page 78

Page 60

(From page 72 or page 99)

Bulkhead appears behind the robot.

Bumblebee puts you and Sari down at a safe distance before joining Bulkhead in the fight. The robot introduces itself as “Crush-A” and manages to knock Bumblebee away from itself. Crush-A then announces that it will “clear” his opponents.

Does Bumblebee reply to Crush-A’s taunts? page 42

Does Bulkhead reply to Crush-A’s taunts? page 85

Page 72

(From page 83)

A robot bursts out of the Gallery’s window.

Bumblebee whisks both you and Sari off your feet and out of harm’s way. At first, you mistake the robot for Bulkhead, but it soon becomes apparent that is not the case. You see that the robot is holding a box.

Does the strange robot speak to you? page 67

Does Bulkhead appear behind the robot? page 60

Page 45

(From page 83 or page 92)

You head for the Sculpture Garden.

Though a welcoming place during the day, you find the Sculpture Garden to be somewhat spooky at night. Bumblebee notices that the iron gates to the garden are wide open and the lock is broken.

Does Bumblebee lead the way into the park? page 86

Do you hear something inside the park? page 8

Page 86

(From page 45)

Bumblebee leads the way into the Sculpture park.

You make your way into the park, until Bumblebee stretches out an arm to prevent you from going further. He then heads up ahead with uncharacteristic caution. Bumblebee disappears into the dark, and for a moment all is quiet. Then something moves through the air, crashing through tree branches, and crashes at your feet.

Is it Bumblebee? page 104

Is it not Bumblebee? page 23

Page 104

(From page 8 or page 86)

Bumblebee crashes at your feet.

Bumblebee picks himself back up, and tells you that he ran into a sort of invisible forcefield. You wonder what an invisible forcefield is doing in a place like this. Prowl appears, and confirms that it is a strange thing indeed.

Try to find out how big the forcefield is? page 13

Decide to go looking for Bulkhead? page 5

Page 13

(From page 23 or page 104)

You suggest to find out how big the forcefield is.

Bumblebee points out that the wall became visible for a split second when he bounced off of it. He suggests throwing sticks at it to get a better view of it. As you see the wall light up, Sari plunges her key into it in an attempt to open it up.

Does the wall become visible? page 90

Does Sari drop the key? page 96

Page 90

(From page 5 or page 13)

The wall becomes visible.

As it comes into view, you see it is a dirty grey dome about the size of a small house. It disappears from view once more, and Sari is disappointed that her key did not grant access to the dome’s inside. Prowl listens close to the dome, and announces that he thinks that Bulkhead is inside. Bumblebee tells everyone to stand back, and fires at the dome.

Does the blast just bounce off the dome? page 82

Does the dome absorb the blast? page 65

Page 82

(From page 90 or page 96)

Bumblebee’s blast bounces off the dome.

The ricochet nearly hit you and Sari, but Prowl pulls you both out of danger’s way. Bumblebee apologizes for his brash action, but something good does come from it; the dome is now permanently visible. Prowl closely inspects the dome, and concludes that Bumblebee’s blast weakened it. He then delivers a kick to finish the job.

Does the dome shatter? page 88

Does a small crack appear in the dome? page 57

Page 88

(From page 65 or page 82)

The dome shatters...

revealing Bulkhead inside. He is holding his Allspark box, which is glowing with the same light as Sari’s key. Then, the shattered pieces of the dome float up into the air before disappearing into the Allspark. The light then turns itself off. Then you hear the sound of engines approaching, prompting Bulkhead and Bumblebee to take up a defensive position. As the vehicles approach, you are relieved to see they are Optimus Prime and Ratchet.

Does Optimus speak? page 71

Does Ratchet speak? page 101

Page 71

(From page 57 or page 88)

Optimus addresses the group.

He tells the group that the danger is passed. Ratchet confirms that the Autobots’ base have been deadlocked to keep out Megatron’s agents. Optimus is also relieved to find out that the Allspark is also capable of defending itself, as it did when it encased Bulkhead inside a forcefield. Sari introduces you to Optimus and Ratchet, who thanks you before sending you on your way home.

THE END

Page 101

(From page 57 or page 88)

'Ratchet addresses the group.

He tells everyone to stand down. Sari introduces you to the new arrivals, and explains how you helped in the adventure. Ratchet assures you that he’s fixed up the Autobots’ base’s security, and that Megatron will not be able to get to the Allspark. Besides, the Autobots now know that the Allspark is capable of protecting itself, as it did when it encased Bulkhead in the forcefield. The adventure over, Bulkhead gives you and Sari a ride home.

THE END

Page 57

(From page 65 or page 82)

A small crack appears in the dome.

Then, the cracks continue to expand across the dome, and with a gentle touch, you cause the whole thing to collapse. Within is Bulkhead, who is glad to see his friends. Bulkhead is not sure exactly what happened, but he figures that he must be holding the real Allspark. Then, Ratchet and Optimus pull up next to your group.

Does Optimus speak? page 71

Does Ratchet speak? page 101

Page 65

(From page 90 or page 96)

The dome absorbs Bumblebee’s blast.

The forcefield then glows before turning visible. You tap the dome and find it making a hollow sound. Prowl then inspects the dome for a weak spot, and upon finding one, delivers a swift karate chop.

Does the dome shatter? page 88

Does a small crack appear in the dome? page 57

Page 96

(From page 5 or page 13)

Sari drops her key.

She explains that it got too hot for her to hold on to it. Prowl and Bumblebee continue to ponder ways to get into the dome, and you suggest that Bulkhead may in fact be inside of it. Bumblebee calls out to Bulkhead, but there is no answer. Prowl reasons that the forcefield must be sound proof as well. Losing patience, Bumblebee hurls an energy blast at the forcefield.

Does the blast just bounce off the dome? page 82

Does the dome absorb the blast? page 65

Page 5

(From page 23 or page 104)

You decide to look around for Bulkhead.

Sari suggests that Bulkhead might be inside the forcefield, but Bumblebee replies that Bulkhead cannot generate a forcefield. Sari counters that though Bulkhead is incapable of such a feat, the Allspark isn’t. Sari explains that if the forcefield was created by the Allspark, it stands to reason that her key will be able to disable it. She plunges her key into the forcefield.

Does the wall become visible? page 90

Does Sari drop the key? page 96

Page 23

(From page 8 or page 86)

Prowl crashes at your feet.

Prowl collects himself, and informs you that he has discovered a forcefield nearby. When he attempted to traverse it, it rejected him. Bumblebee tells him that it most likely happened because Prowl wasn’t fast enough, and charges headlong into the forcefield. He is likewise thrown back by the shield.

Try to find out how big the forcefield is? page 13

Decide to go looking for Bulkhead? page 5

Page 8

(From page 45)

You hear something coming from the Sculpture Park.

Bumblebee instructs both you and Sari to stay behind while he investigates the sound. As soon as Bumblebee has left, however, Sari insist that you both head into the park anyways to help him. You make your way silently through the park when a bot crashes into the ground at your feet.

Is it Bumblebee? page 104

Is it not Bumblebee? page 23

Page 92

(From page 12 pr page 48)

Sari suggest Bumblebee go looking for the other Autobots at the locations they were sent to.

Bumblebee agrees with her plan, and decides to look at Bulkhead’s favourite places in the city.

Do you decide to go to the Art Gallery? page 102

Do you decide to the Sculpture Park? page 45

Page 12

(From page 7 or page 33 or page 38 or page 51 or page 68)

You think you see a man nearby.

But then the figure changes its shape into a vehicle and roars towards you. You call to Sari, but she ha already recognized the vehicle; Bumblebee. Bumblebee opens his doors, and Sari pushes you inside before hopping in herself. Sari introduces you to Bumblebee, who explains that the Autobots’ base is no longer safe. Megatron has somehow gained control over all of the electrics at the plant. Ratchet is currently working on a device to disrupt Megatron’s control of the building, but it will take some time. Bumblebee then explains that Optimus came up with a scheme to protect the Allspark in the meantime; each Autobot was given a box containing a replica of the Allspark to hide in a different location. Though Bumblebee was successful in hiding his box, none of the others have returned to meet with him.

Do you have an idea on what to do next? page 83

Does Sari suggest what to do next? page 92

Page 68

(From page 81 or page 94)

You turn around, only to discover that you are totally lost.

As you begin to feel frightened, Sari grabs you by the shoulder. She warns you not to get lost and resumes her brisk pace forward. You follow her, but can’t help but feel as though you are being watched. You glance over your shoulder.

Do you think you can see a vehicle parked in the street? page 48

Do you think you can see a man? page 12

Page 81

(From page 52)

Sari hesitates to take you to the Autobots’ base.

She tells you that it might be dangerous to bring you along, but you point out that it would;t be a good idea for her to head off on her own either. After a ride on the subway, you find yourself in the old industrial area of Detroit. You look around and comment that the neighbourhood looks like a ghost town, only to find that she isn’t next to you anymore.

Call out Sari’s name? page 7

Turn around? page 68

Page 20

(From page 58 or page 89)

Sari is certain that the message is genuine.

You point out that nowadays anyone can fake anything with a computer given they have enough processing power, and Sari relents. You continue to say that the only way to find out if the Autobots are safe is to find them yourself. Sari agrees, and decides to head to their base for a start. You are unsure at first to join Sari on her adventure.

Do you agree to go with Sari? page 38

Do you hesitate to join Sari? page 2

Page 38

(From page 20)

You agree to join Sari.

She explains to you that the Autobots have a secret base in the old part of the city. A short subway ride later, you both find yourselves in the derelict industrial area of Detroit. As you walk the dark streets, you think you see something moving and look again.

Do you think you see a vehicle parked in the street? page 48

Do you think you see a man? page 12

Page 2

(From page 20)

You hesitate to join Sari.

You explain that it might be dangerous, but Sari retorts that the Autobots need your help regardless. You finally agree to join her. She explains to you that the Autobots have a secret base in the old part of the city. A short subway ride later, you both find yourselves in the derelict industrial area of Detroit.

Does Sari disappear? page 33

Do you think you see something following you? page 51

Page 33

(From page 2)

Sari is suddenly nowhere to be seen.

You call out anxiously for her, and for a long time receive no answer. Then suddenly she pops out of a concealed entrance to a nearby alley. You follow her into the alley, but as you turn around for a quick glance, you think you see movement behind you.

Do you see a vehicle parked in the street? page 48

Do you think you see a man? page 12

Page 51

(From page 2)

You think you spot something following you.

You have been thinking about the ghosts of cars and the men and women who designed them in this part of the city, and as you catch motion in the corner of your eye, your imagination runs wild with the thought. You think about telling Sari about it, but she is striding ahead. You catch some movement again, and spin around, determined to spot the culprit.

Do you see a vehicle parked in the street? page 48

Do you think you see a man? page 12

Page 89

(From page 46)

Sari explains what the message from the Autobots told her.

You ask whether or not the Autobots gave her a reason for her to keep away, and she admits that they did not. You think back, and realize that there has been no news on the Autobots for the past week or so. You ask whether something might have happened to the Autobots, and speculate that the message that Sari received was fake.

Does Sari agree? page 52

Does Sari disagree? page 20

Featured characters

Autobots	Humans	Others
Bumblebee Bulkhead Optimus Prime Prowl Ratchet	You Sari Sumdac Professor Heinz Von Furstwartz Doctor Cornelius Lighthouse Police officer Fire Chief	Crush-A Cleaning 'bot Gardening 'bot Fire engine 'bots

Quotes

"Wheee! This is fun!" [hits tree] "Apart from that bit."

—Bumblebee

"I knew all those hours playing pool would pay off!"

—Bumblebee

"Some woman named Tron. Meg A. Tron."

—Professor Heinz Von Furstwartz explains the identity of the woman he met online.

Notes

Multipath

• In this book, you have recently moved to Detroit, and joined a baseball club. You've been meaning to make friends with Sari on the off chance you'll get to meet the Autobots. Wow, you should be ashamed of yourself!
• Alternate paths:
  • Rather than Professor Von Furstwartz, Bulkhead is duped by a gardening 'bot with a special rod which makes it appear to be Prime.
  • Bulkhead's box has the real AllSpark in it, in which case your adventure ends then and there with the arrival of Optimus and Ratchet, who reveal they've upgraded the base's defences.
  • Prime and Ratchet are at the Jam Jar Club in downtown Detroit. The riddle you get is "When is a door not a door?"
  • Crush-A isn't being remote controlled and is genuinely in Megatron's thrall. Bumblebee overloads him when you realise he's absorbing the Autobots' firepower.
  • Bumblebee catches you before you enter the Autobot factory base. He's hidden his box at the Race Track and is looking for Bulkhead, who is either at the City Art Gallery or the Detroit Sculpture Park.
    • In the art gallery, you encounter Crush-A, who's defeated after a brief battle with Bumblebee and Bulkhead, and disappears in a flash of light. After Prowl arrives, the path leads you to eihter the Jam Jar Club or library.
    • In the Sculpture Park, you find Prowl and a massive forcefield. When you break through, you find Bulkhead, who has the real AllSpark.

Continuity notes

• Bulkhead likes to hang out at the City Art Gallery or Detroit Sculpture Park, as per his interest in artwork, established in "Headmaster".
• Megatron previously attacked the Autobots using controlled devices in "Home Is Where the Spark Is".

Trivia

• Sari's AllSpark Key vibrates and/or glows when a Cybertronian is near.
• The AllSpark can protect itself by creating a large dome-shaped force field.
• AllSpark is spelled with a lower-case S throughout.
• Ratchet says he has "deadlocked the bases systems", a reference to Doctor Who, in which, if something is "deadlocked", the title character's sonic screwdriver won't work on it.