What up guys? LuisJM back with a little extra story from my version of Transformers Prime Season 3. As most of you know, I did the fifth episode of Transformers Prime in Double Trouble. It's where the Autobots try to stop the Decepticons from transferring volatile red energon to Darkmount to please Megatron's dreams of world domination while John and Elsa infiltrate a MECH facility to gain Intel of what they are constructing under the Director's orders. If you wish to know more of this story, you can go into the episode story to read for yourself. Remember, it's called 'Double Trouble'.

However, for those of you who read my previous story and went near the end, you would notice that there was a group of people that came in to rescue John and Elsa when their mission went south. They were of course called Noble Team. For those of you who don't know, Noble Team, who consisted in Carter, Kat, Barrick, Emile, Paduk, Thorne, and Sofia were from an old story I made for the Transformers Prime series as an extra called 'Invasion'. It's about when the Decepticons attack Jasper and the military was trying their damn best to protect the town, only to fail and retreat into the old fallout shelter underneath the city. Again, if you like to know more, you should not only check out the Invasion story, but the second episode of my season three version, 'Prime' as it discuss how they get out of the mess they got themselves into. I thought that it was perfect to bring them back at that episode in order to make some relevance, and hopefully have them involved in an epic final episode I'm planning in the future, if I get around to it.

But by the time I finished with the episode, something caught my attention. With Noble Team returning, I started to wonder if I could create an extra and short story about what got them into that battle from the episode. Seem to make sense as it did leave a few plot holes and would need to be ironed out. Plus I have to make a quick one-shot story before updating Transformers Infinite, and that too is a work in progress nightmare with the author I was working with not interested in helping me anymore. So it does lead to a lot of problems there as well. I mean I have a few ideas for one shots, but this question I have seems to make more sense. So here we are, looking into the short story of Transformers Prime episode extra that involves Noble Team and their antics. Here's the summary of this short story.

After the events of Double Trouble, Noble leader is at Unit E explaining the situation that happened in the MECH facility. How will he talk himself and his team out of it?

Chapter Notes

Now this extra story will be inspired by the Transformers Prime episode, 'Grilled'. It's the episode where Fowler was being grilled by General Bryce of the incident with Nemesis Prime. While it is interesting, it was pretty much a filler episode where they play back previous episodes to that point. Not much to work with and completely forgettable from what I saw. I was thinking that I should do a better job at it by playing back from the start of the mission to where episode five picked up. Also, most of the chapter will be in flashbacks so there will be a lot of Italic fonts in these chapters while recent will be normal. Maybe a bit much, but that's how I handle all my story fonts when it involves flashbacks. Still, it would seem fitting, considering the premise of the story. One more thing before we can continue, this story is going to be a crossover of Transformers Prime and various video games. The reason why is because Noble Team contains characters from video games, most likely Halo and the Gears of War franchise. I'm sure there will be more characters based on those games, if not others, but I need to think about that. Until then, I will keep these characters until I add more. Who knows, maybe I can give John his own unit when the time comes. But that would be for another time. Until then, let's enjoy this little story.

Disclaimer: I don't own Transformers Prime or any video game franchise.

Not sit back and enjoy this little story.

Double Trouble Extra: Noble Grilling

Chapter 1: How it Started

Deep in the Nevada desert, there is a large military facility that is in charge of extra terrestrial attacks called Unit E. Their mission was simple, to aid the Autobots in defending Earth against any possible Decepticon threat and keep them protected. Course, with the incident that happened in Jasper combined with the reveal of the Autobot/Decepticon war in front of the public, it was complicating far more problems then expected. Now they do mostly damage control in the base, trying to make sure that Atinger and Godfree don't push the law in removing the Autobots while in the field their military forces are on stand by around an energy barrier where the Decepticons have set up shop in Jasper after destroying it. However, there is one thing that was about to happen that doesn't involve this intergalactic war on their planet. Instead, it focuses on one human group that are in some serious hot water.

In the middle of facility, a jeep came down the road and stopped at a huge office building. Once it stopped at the front, the soldier turned to the passenger and told him to get off.

"This is your stop. Good luck with the general. I heard he's mad after the stunt you pulled."

By that time, someone stepped out of the jeep dressed in a military suit with medals of honor and a purple heart. Dusting himself off, he was a his late thirties with black military hair cut and sky blue eyes. This person is none other then Carter as he was sent to the main offices for an explanation of what happened. See, he and his group, Noble Team, headed to the MECH controlled Clinton-Sherman Airforce base in Burns Flat, Oklahoma to rescue two human members of the Autobots. Well one human member and one techno organic, but that's another story. Anyways, they went and rescue the two, but the problem is that they didn't have permission to go by their superior officer. Because of that, they are all in some serious trouble. Now here he is, at Bryce's office, wanting his side of the story. Sighing, he knew that he needed all the luck he gets.

Carter: "Trust me… Luck is the one thing I need."

He soon started to walk to the main entrance of the office complex while the jeep drove away. Once he opened the door, he was greeted by the receptionist that is occupied with paperwork and up to date reports on the Jasper front. Once he approached the receptionist, he explained who he is and why he's here.

Carter: "Um… Excuse me. I'm Captain Carter, leader of Noble Team. I'm here to see General Bryce."

The receptionist looks to the captain and waved him off.

"Okay… Have a seat here. Someone will come to take you to him."

Carter heard her and figured that would be the case.

Carter: "Sure thing, thanks."

He soon took a seat near the lounge and waited for his turn to speak to Bryce. As he was waiting, a lot of questions were circling in his mind. With the incident that happened back at that rescue mission, he feared this day. Indeed, it was a risk in going down there and rescue those two spies. And yes, they all managed to escape that hellhole before it all blew up in front of their faces. But it was uncalled for and they didn't speak to Lasky of heading down there to rescue them. Now here he is, sitting in the lounge, waiting for whatever punishment Bryce it going to give him. He just hopes that it's not going to be just as worse as he thinks about. That he and his team won't get disbanded or worse, terminated. Whatever the case, he better be prepared at what punishment the general will give him and his unit. As he waited, a soldier started to come into the lounge and turned to Carter.

"Noble Leader Carter?"

Carter heard his name and looked up at the soldier.

Carter: "Yes. That's me."

The soldier looked to him and told him to come.

"Please follow me. The general is expecting you."

Carter heard that and sighed, knowing what it meant. Getting up, he headed to the soldier and responded.

Carter: "Sure… Why not…"

When he approached the soldier, he gestured him to follow and the two went through the door. Walking down the hallway, Carter asked about what the Bryce was going to talk to him about.

Carter: "So… What does the general want from me? I mean, I get the idea of him wanting to question me about the incident, but is there more I should know about to prepare for?"

The soldier remained silent, not wanting to let him know about what he has to face. Carter didn't get any answer and he rolled his eyes around.

Carter: "I see… So that silence is an answer, huh?"

The soldier looked at him and answered him calmly.

"Sorry, Noble Leader. What the general has to say to you would be classified."

Carter heard that and didn't like the sound of it.

Carter: "Right… Classified… That makes me feel really comfortable."

The two kept on walking down the hall, turning a corner before approaching Bryce's office. Once they reach the door, the soldier saluted and let him be.

"Here we are. Good luck, Noble Leader. The general's grilling is tough to get through with."

Carter turned to the door and took a breather, preparing himself for something bad in there.

Carter: "Yeah. So I heard."

The soldier soon left and returns to his post. Once he's gone, Carter turned to the door and took a deep breath.

Carter: "Okay… Here goes nothing."

He slowly opened the door as he entered the office. When he did, he was soon introduced to Bryce, as he sat on his desk and had a stern look on his face. There was also a soldier at the corner with a camcorder recording the grilling, a typical military protocol.

General Bryce: "Noble Leader Carter. So nice of you to come at such short notice. Please, have a seat."

He soon gestured to him to have a seat across the way. He turned and saw three separate seats, one of which was empty. But what shocked him as that the two that were occupied has two familiar faces. The first is Fowler as he knew that he was also responsible for what happened. On the other chair is a man in his forties with brown hair and eyes and was wearing a suit as well. That person was Captain Lasky as he was in charge of all the military work in the Pentagon. Looking at the two, he soon realized that this is bad, really bad.

Carter: "Agent Fowler. Captain Lasky. Surprised to see you both here."

Both of them got up and explained why they were there.

Agent Fowler: "Well, I didn't expect a three way grilling if that's what you mean. But it was under Bryce's orders due to the incident back in Burns Flat, a part of which I sort of dragged John in."

Captain Lasky: "And you disobeyed my order to remain in your posts. I'm only here to give my side of the story."

Carter heard that and figured it was the case.

Carter: "Makes sense. With what happened, Bryce would want your own personal opinion. Quite the problem I have."

Captain Lasky: "Yes… This is quite the problem."

The general soon cleared his throat and decided to get started with the interview.

General Bryce: "If you all are done with the introductions, I believe we should start."

The three turned to the general and understood that part. So they all took their seats and they began the grilling. But not before Carter looked to the recorder and asked about that.

Carter: "Before we begin, is it really necessary to film this? This is a private grilling, it's not like we're showing it to the public."

Bryce looked to him in confusion and explained about it.

General Bryce: "All known grilling need to be recorded for historical references, as a means to learn from ones mistakes. Such as the one you are currently in."

Carter heard that and get how deep the situation is.

Carter: "Yes, sir. I understand."

Clearing that out of the way, Bryce decided to start with the grilling.

General Bryce: "Now then, Noble Leader Carter of Noble Team, I looked into your resume and was impressed by your accomplishments since joining the military. You led your team through multiple missions throughout the globe, succeeded with expectations. You and your group were even part of the evacuation of Jasper, Nevada until the invasion started and through impossible odds, managed to survive for so long. But now I got this report from Lasky here that you disobeyed orders and went on your own suicide mission to rescue two people. Is that true?"

Noble Leader heard that and lowered his head in response.

Carter: "Yes, that's true. But that is just one side of the story Lasky presented. Perhaps if I give you my side of the story, then maybe it will clear the air a bit."

The General leaned back on his chair and sighed.

General Bryce: "That is why you and Fowler are here, Carter. To get your side of what happened. Now, Fowler, shall we start with you? I want to know how this mess began."

Fowler turned to him and figured that he would start with him, considering his experience with grills.

Agent Fowler: "Very well. As you know, not only we have to deal with Decepticons, but also a terror cell within our own soil that is MECH."

Bryce remembered about that.

General Bryce: "Yes, yes, I'm aware of MECH. Ever since that Nemesis Prime debacle and the Milton Airforce attack, I have you take charge in following any MECH activity. Go on, please."

Agent Fowler: "Anyways, after MECH stole all that Tusgten steel in from POSGO in California, I had to keep close watch on any strange activity. That's when I'm picking up some strange movement coming from the Clinton-Sherman Airforce base in Burns Flat, Oklahoma. Now that facility was abandoned a long time ago since the Cuban Missile Crisis was adverted. So all roads point to MECH from what I saw. I had to do something before they decided to vanish like many times before."

General Bryce: "So what did you do? Have to contact the Autobots to explain to them the situation and recruit them. They seem to have a personal grudge with them since their first encounter."

The agent slumped down and told him he did that, but with little success.

Agent Fowler: "That was my first thought. Sadly, they already left to stop some Cons in transporting volatile material to Darkmount. But someone decided to step in to handle this infiltration mission. I'm sure you heard him. Jonathan Darby?"

Bryce heard that name and rubbed the temples of his head, remember him.

General Bryce: "Yeah… I remember him. A noble soldier. Lost his brother because of that bombing in Baghdad. Wanting to get revenge after that, but I came to a decision to discharge him, for his own safety. Now I heard he came back from Italy and you appointed him the new Liaison for Team Prime, instead of some of the people I choose for you to be a potential replacement."

Fowler shrugged that off and explained about that.

Agent Fowler: "As I stated before, I didn't need someone to keep the Autobots in line. Just need someone to care for them and what matters the most. But aren't we getting off topic?"

General blinked and realized he does have a point.

General Bryce: "Right. Sorry about that. Guess I was a little miffed about that decision. Please, continue."

Fowler nodded and went on.

Agent Fowler: "Thank you. Anyways, John volunteered in infiltrating that MECH facility and gather Intel on what they are planning. I provided him with the equipment and disguise necessary to get into the facility and hope that he succeeded without incident."

Bryce soon points the attention to someone else that was with John.

General Bryce: "But he wasn't alone, was he? From what I gathered from your recent report that someone was with him. This Elsa de Sica. Strange name, I give you that. Even stranger that this is a little girl that assisted him."

Fowler nodded and reminded the general about that.

Agent Fowler: "Yes. That's true. Elsa de Sica was a member of the Social Welfare Agency. I assume you got my report on that facility in Italy."

The general nodded and knew what he meant.

General Bryce: "Indeed, I have. An anti terrorist facility in Italy and develops super soldier out of little girls. A little extreme, yes, but it's not as messed up as harboring alien robots."

Agent Fowler: "Of course. All governments do have some dark pasts here and there. Anyways, I sent John and Elsa to the decommissioned air force base and I haven't heard word from them since they head down there. I was getting so worried, that I contacted John's wife.

Flashback...

In the Autobot Base underneath Lake Eerie, Fowler contacted the base to explain to June of what happened.

Agent Fowler: "As you know, your husband and Elsa are still at MECH facility gathering Intel from MECH to see what they are planning. For some reason, I hadn't heard word from them since they left Unit E. All communications have been blacked out since and I cannot get a close contact with them in anyway."

June, also known as Altra, heard that news and was worried about it.

June/Altra: "You don't think that they're dead, are they?"

Fowler heard that and didn't think that's how it went down.

Agent Fowler: "I don't think that's the case. From what I can tell, John and Elsa had many missions together back in Italy, they can survive through anything. It's just that this is MECH we're talking about. They always keep their locations secret and any communication outside of MECH would be problematic. I'm sure they are all right."

June turned away and didn't like it.

June/Altra: "I don't know. As I know, I always worry about my husband since he left Jack and I and always scared about the day someone would come and said that he was gone. Just the thought of him in that place, really concerns me. I just hope he's all right."

Down at the lounge, Vince, Sam, and Sari looked on and could feel the same. With John and Elsa away on a mission, it could be troublesome of what will happen. That's when Sari remembered something and told the wife.

Sari: "Hey! I got an idea! Why not check the satellite image of the MECH facility. I mean, we now have full access of every satellite around to world to look into Decepticon activity, we can use it and look into MECH activity."

Sam heard that and remembered the location.

Sam Witwickity: "She's right! That base is located in Burns Flat, Oklahoma, right? So maybe we can keep tabs on that place as well. Raf? You hear that? Think you can pinpoint Burns Flat so we know what's going on with John and Elsa?"

He turned to the hacker, hoping that he can do that. But Raf, AKA Firewall, was busy with the Autobot mission to stop the Decepticons from delivering the Red Energon to Darkmount and can't work on both things at once.

Raf/Firewall: "Sorry guys, but I can't. I'm a little preoccupied at the moment, what with the Autobot mission and everything."

Ratchet heard that and agreed with him as well.

Ratchet: "He's right, you know. With the Decepticons taking all the Red Energon to Megatron, we cannot venture off a different path. We need to have all servos on deck on this. This includes you Altra. I need the med bay at the ready for any Autobots that could be injured when they return from the mission. Now!"

Altra heard him and sighed to herself. She really wants to make sure her husband is safe. But the same can be said with her son, as he's with the team stopping the Cons. Turning to him, she responded the best she can.

June/Altra: "Sure thing, Ratchet. I'll get on that right away."

She soon turned to Fowler and thanked him for the heads up.

June/Altra: "Thank you for filling me in on John's progress. Think you can keep me posted if anything comes up with him?"

Fowler looked away and didn't know how to respond. Turning back, he told her that he would try.

Agent Fowler: "I'll do my best. But with John and Elsa under radio silence, it would be difficult to see what's been going on. Still, I'll let you know."

Altra smiled and was glad that he'll work hard.

June/Altra: "Thanks, Fowler. I'm sure you'll find him soon."

She soon heard Ratchet telling her to get to the ward.

Ratchet: "Altra! What are you doing? Double time it!"

June groaned and responded as calming as possible.

June/Altra: "All right, I'm going."

She soon left the command center and headed to the medical ward to get everything ready incase any Autobot was injured. The moment she left, Vince decided to handle this and got up to get to the screen Fowler is on before he could sign off. He soon spoke to him of what he heard.

Vince: "Agent Fowler, I get that Jack's dad can handle himself, even with that cybernetic girl by his side. But giving the situation, he might need some form of backup to get out of this predicament. If things have gotten worse then expected, he would need an extraction point, otherwise both of them will be killed. Trust me, I've lost my entire family from the Decepticons back in Jasper. I don't want Jack to loose his pops over what would be a suicide mission."

Fowler heard him and get where he's going. Considering the loss of casualties in Jasper, it did leave scars to those who have survived and escaped that Hellhole. Rubbing the temples of his head, he get where he's going with this.

Agent Fowler: "Look, Vince. I know that you wanted to help out, considering what happened to you months ago, but my hands are tied here. Unless I get word from John or Elsa, I can't send an extraction team. Even so, I need permission from General Bryce and file a lot of paperwork to set a team up to bring those two back. This is beyond my control. I'm sorry."

He soon hit the button and the screen went off. Vince heard that and thought it was a fruitless endeavor. But he knows some people that can help with that extraction.

Vince: "Maybe it's beyond your control, but I think I know some people who can help. I just need to make a quick phone call."

He soon got out his cell phone to dial a certain number. Sari and Sam looked to each other and was a little worried of what he is up to. So much so that they asked him of what he's planning.

Sari: "Uh… Vince? What exactly are you doing?"

He finished dialing the number and responded to her.

Vince: "Isn't it obvious? There's only one team that can help get Jack's dad and Elsa de Sica out of there. And they are some good friends of mine."

End Flashback…

General Bryce: "So this kid, Vince was the cause of the mess?"

Fowler heard that and shrugged it off.

Agent Fowler: "Not really… Vince had his concerns with one John Darby considering he knows of his son. And considering that he lost his entire family during the Invasion of Jasper, he just didn't want the son to loose a father."

The general listened to his side of the story, not realizing the whole truth of Jack is one of the Cybertronians that was created by MECH. He soon looked into the survivor profiles that was added after the invasion and looked into Vince's profile.

General Bryce: "Yes… I'm aware of this Vince fella. Former student of Jasper Memorial High, had a family with a father who once worked as a mechanic. His entire family was killed in an EVAC point in Jasper when Decepticons destroyed the entire mall. Now he currently lives with his grandmother and works in a mechanic shop as a part timer after school. Part of that relocation program when he and many other survivors that were trapped in Jasper were rescued. I already got the full report, Fowler. You don't have to explain everything to me. However, I do wish to explain on why a young teenager contacted one of our best strike force groups? Carter, perhaps you would shed some light into that part, giving Fowler wasn't there at the time."

Carter turned to him and knew that it was his turn to explain that side of the story. Taking a deep breath, he started his side of the story.

Carter: "But of course sir. I didn't know much of what happened between Fowler and the Autobots. However, I know of how and when the call was made. It started back in one of the Unit E's bunkers my team was residing in. We were pretty much on break and had nothing to do until the next training exercise commence. Everyone was doing their regular thing when Vince contacted us.

Flashback…

In the barracks of Unit E, everyone was under constant watch as jeeps patrolled the streets in the event of a Decepticon attack was about to take place. Thankfully, there was none, but they still need to keep their guards up. Inside one of the bunkers, a group of soldiers were just sitting around, doing absolutely nothing to pass the time. That team was Noble as they were trying to keep themselves preoccupied. The first one is Barrick as he was pacing back and forth, looking at his watch waiting for his ride to pick him up for a vacation he so wanted after nearly surviving Hell itself in Jasper. Paduk was modifying his Markza to help improve his marksmen skills if another Con attack happens. And Emile was on his barrack bed sleeping with a Playboy magazine covering his face as his skull imprinted helmet was on the nightstand. But at the shooting range of the bunker, Throne was teaching Sofia the means to shooting.

Thorne: "Now, Sofia, if you are willing to the Noble cause, you need to understand that it's all about picking your target then wasting your bullets. When Jasper was invaded, the military needs to use tactics against Decepticons. One of those tactics includes using their sights against them. One bullet shot to the visor and they would be permanently blind.

Sofia heard that and remembered about the situation.

Sofia: "I know how to take them down. I was there, remember?"

Thorne sighed and knew what she was talking about.

Thorne: "That is true… But there will be a time when we don't have Paduk with us. If that happens, there comes a time when we all have to fend for ourselves. Which is why we're doing these practice lessons. Now, hand on the trigger, eyes steady, and whatever you do, take your time. You got enough in the world to take that shot."

Sofia groaned and listened to his advice. She soon positioned herself and took aim at a helmet with a visor that spray painted in purple, to symbolize the color of the Decepticons. Getting her eyes on the scope of her DMR and made sure that she has her crosshair in her sights. After a few moments, she got her target and pulled the trigger. The bullet soon came out and it his right at the visor of the helmet, piecing the hole and knocking it off the podium. Thorne looked to this and was impressed by it.

Thorne: "Huh… Not bad. Not bad at all. I say with a bit more practice, you can blind a Decepticon at a high rise 50 miles at the top of the Empire State Building."

Sofia turned to him and was pleased with that.

Sofia: "Thanks, Thorne. You're pretty good for a teacher."

Thorne smirked, knowing that he taught her well. Since loosing her SWATT team in Jasper at the start of the invasion, Noble decided to recruit Sofia into their ranks. Since then, they have trained her to be a part of the fight. All that is left is to train her in fighting with Noble. Though it would've been smoother if a certain members would help her in training. That was because of Barrick yelling in frustration as he hit the punching back with his fist. The two turned to him and could tell that he's not in a good mood.

Thorne: "I'm a good teacher, no doubt about that. But I wish the others would help out. Barrick! If you're bored, maybe you should help out on Sofia's training. It would be easier if I had an extra set of hands around here."

Barrick heard him and turned to see the scornful look on his face. The Demolition expert rubbed the back of his balding head and apologized with his temper.

Barrick: "Sorry about that, Thorne. Didn't mean to snap like that. It's just that I've been waiting for my ride to arrive. Been thirty minutes now and I haven't heard word from them yet. Thirty God Damn minutes! That's thirty minutes of beach time wasted. Do you have any idea how hard it was to book a reservation to Miami beach, reserve a room, and set up all the activities to do down there? Do you?"

Both Throne and Sofia turned to each other and figured why he was upset. Barrick was planning a one-week vacation to Miami after surviving the Decepticon onslaught. Now it seems to be delayed due to the whole security concerns. Emile and Paduk were unfazed by his rant as the scout reminded him of what they're doing.

Emile: "Man, Barrick, chill and Hell out, will you? We're all on vacation here. You just need to relax and enjoy it while you still can."

Barrick turned to him and groaned on his demeanor attitude.

Barrick: "Yeah, easy for you to say. You just spend your vacation lying around when there's no fights for you to take. Me, on the other hand, I need some serious R & R out of this cooped up facility. And what better way to relax then in a beach with some hot babes around your shoulder. Hell, maybe I get some bonus points if I tell them I survived an Decepticon onslaught. They might go head over heels for me. Unlike a certain someone who thinks that the closest thing to seeing babes then in some cheap magazine, looking at boobs on a paper."

Emile heard this and was a little irritated by that.

Emile: "At least it's my way in calming my nerves after nearly dying from a Con attack. You should try it sometimes."

Barrick crossed his arms and chuckled a little.

Barrick: "Oh please. Like jacking off to magazine girls would make me feel better. C'mon Paduk, back me up."

Paduk was still working on his weapon, trying to ignore the argument over the two. Peering his eyes up to them, he shrugged it off and decided to share his own two cents.

Paduk: "I think you are all disgusting pigs."

Both of them heard that and were shocked by what he said. Both Thorne and Sofia heard that as well and couldn't help but to chuckle over it.

Sofia: "Spoken like a true man."

Thorne: "Amen to that."

Barrick groaned and never thought he was betrayed that easily. He turned to Paduk and uttered the one word to him.

Barrick: "Traitor!"

Paduk shrugged it off and was being honest.

Paduk: "Hey! I was only giving out my honest opinion."

Barrick was fuming as he was about to handle it his own way. But before he could actually do something about it, he and the rest of the team heard a familiar voice.

Carter: "What is going on down there?"

The group heard that and looked up to see who was speaking to them. That's when they saw Carter and Kat standing on the catwalk near the entrance to their barracks. Carter looked to the demo expert and demanded what he's doing.

Carter: "Well…?"

Barrick looked around and realized that he was in hot water. Turning back, he cleared his throat and explained himself as much as he could.

Barrick: "Carter, sir. Sorry about the whole tirade, I was just a little impatient is all. My ride was supposed to be here half an hour ago for my Miami vacation for a week. I swear, the military tends to stop any civilian vehicle it comes to pass."

Kat placed her hands on her hips and reminded him of what transpired.

Kat: "Can you blame them? With the Decepticon attack in Jasper, they have to take the extra precautions in civilian vehicles, considering how the Cons disguise themselves. They can't be too cautious on suspecting vehicles coming into a combat field operations.

Carter soon passed his second in command and let them in on the problem.

Carter: "Kat is right. With the invasion of Jasper, the entire US military is on their toes in preventing another tragic disaster as that. We all need to be at the ready if something occurs. Speaking of which…"

He look down at Barrick's attire and was appalled by it. Turns out, he was all decked out for his Miami vacation. He was wearing a buttoned Hawaiian shirt with white leather pants and a pair of white alligator shoes. Looking at his attire, he demanded what he has on.

Carter: "What exactly are you wearing?"

Barrick look to himself and explained about that as well.

Barrick: "What? This? Just a little something to enjoy my vacation. What do you think? Heard floral shirts are all the rage for the ladies."

They all look to him and had all those weird looks. That was when Sofia broke the silence.

Sofia: "Um… I hate to say it, Barrick, but what you're wearing isn't turning me on."

Barrick heard her and was a little annoyed by her answer. The rest of the group chuckled a little and figured that would be one woman's reaction. Carter though decided to handle this and told Barrick that this is no vacation.

Carter: "Look Barrick, I know that you need rest after going through that hell in Jasper. But remember this is not a vacation, this is military leave. This isn't some spring break that we would forget about the battle we went through, about the lives that were lost from it. Once this break is done, we have to report back for duty. With the Decepticons setting shop in Jasper, and the barrier protecting them from our forces, we need to have all hands on deck That includes us when we disembark to ground zero."

The others heard that and knew what he was referring to. They are only taking a break after surviving the Con onslaught. When the break is over, they can return to the battle and join the forces surrounding the Decepticon barrier that was covering Jasper and Darkmount. Paduk heard it and sighed, placing his tools down to remember.

Paduk: "Carter is right, Barrick. We can't just go on vacation and pretend what happened didn't exist. You remember what happened to Carmine, right? You want to forget what they Cyclops freak did to him? I sure as hell don't. Hell, I don't want to forget on the scar that was left on my face."

He soon rubbed the burnt mark on the side of his face and could never forget about that. Barrick listened to Carter's and Paduk's advice and got the message.

Barrick: "Yeah, yeah… I get the message. War is Hell, nothing changes, yada yada yada. I get the idea that we need to get back fighting when this break is over. But please, let me have a little fun why don't ya."

Carter heard that and gave a quick stern to the demo expert. Almost immediately, Barrick assured him that he would be back to fight again.

Barrick: "Seesh, don't have an aneurysm will you? I was only playing with you. I promise that in a week, I will be back and reporting for duty again. I promise…"

Carter sighed and figured that he would be trying to be sympathetic.

Carter: "As long as you don't excuse yourself in getting out of the army for leisure, I suppose that's fine with me."

Barrick smirked a little and was glad he got the idea.

Barrick: "Good of you to see things my way sir. Though I would be happy if my boys come here and pick me up already!"

As he said that, he heard his phone ringing and believes to be who it is.

Barrick: "Finally! Some form of contact. And for a second there, I was about to get a taxi."

He took out his cell phone and hit send, demanding his friends what just happened.

Barrick: "Hey! What's taking you guys too long? I know the facility is under heavy security lockdown, but it couldn't be too much of a pain. Where are you?"

He waited for a response from the other end. But what he heard is a familiar voice he didn't expect.

Vince: "Uh… Hi, Barrick… Been a while…"

Barrick heard that and realized whom that voice belonged to.

Barrick: "Vince? Is that you?"

That got everyone's attention as they heard that name. Indeed, that was Vince. The same Vince they met back in Jasper when they were looking for survivors. The same one that they escorted through the town. Where they have to look after him after his entire family was killed by the Decepticons. Keeping him safe throughout their journey in the small town. All the way up to Vince joining the battle and teaming with Noble to defend the remaining survivors against the Cons after the death of Carmine. They were so impressed by Vince's bravery, that they decided to make him an honorary member of Noble and would train him when he leaves high school. But they never expect to hear from him this soon, especially on Barrick's cell. Vince chuckled and responded to Barrick's confusion.

Vince: "Yeah, it's me. Am I interrupting something? You sounded a little annoyed there."

The demolition expert was sweating a little and never thought he call him."

Barrick: "No! Of course not! I was just waiting for some friends to come and pick me up from the base. Captain Lasky is giving Noble a week off after surviving Jasper and was expecting some friends taking me to Miami for the week. Though I wasn't expecting you calling me. What's seems to be the problem?"

Vince was hesitant on the other end and wanted to know if the Noble Leader was there.

Vince: "Yeah… Well, if your leader there? Carter? I need to speak with him. It's urgent."

Barrick listened to the concern of his voice and realized something must've gone wrong. So he decided to give him to Carter about the situation at hand.

Barrick: "Sure thing kid. Give me a second."

He soon approached the Noble Leader as he looked on in confusion.

Carter: "Is that Vince? Barrick, care to explain to me why he has your phone number?"

Barrick looked to all of Noble Team and knew that they want an answer. So rubbing his neck, he explained his actions.

Barrick: "Yeah… That… See, remember after escaping Jasper and leaving when all the survivors have been taken to the relocation program? Well, when Vince was about to leave, I secretly decided to give him my cell number. Thought it would be nice to get in contact with him, since he lost everything in Jasper."

The group heard that with a few of them face palming themselves. So much so that Carter was irate about it.

Carter: "Have you lost your mind!? You give your number, your military number, to a civilian! You know that's against their policies."

Barrick shrugged it off and explained about that.

Barrick: "Hey! Why are you getting annoyed by that. Vince did help us survive throughout Jasper during the invasion. If we didn't find him, we wouldn't last so long then our companions. He deserves to be a part of our group since Carmine died."

Some of them heard that and realized he has a point.

Emile: "You know… Barrick is right. Vince did aid us around the town since we're not familiar with it. We wouldn't have survived without his help."

Sofia: "Yeah… Plus he did help us hold the line while all the civilians were taken underground when Carmine moved on. So he was brave enough to withstand the Decepticon onslaught."

Carter listened to their thoughts on this and they made some good points. Vince did save them many times and helped them through the invasion in many ways. Still, it was against protocol for soldiers giving their phone numbers to civilians. But this is Vince they're talking about. And he was just as reliable as any other soldier. So he would let it slide, but only if what Vince has to say is important.

Carter: "Give me the phone. Let's see what Vince wants."

Hearing that, Barrick decided to hand the phone over to the leader. Once he did that, he started to talk with the young teen.

Carter: "Hello? Vince? This is Carter."

Vince: "Carter! Oh, think goodness I got to you. I didn't know how to reach you through the military lines, so I had to get to Barrick's phone to contact you."

Carter heard that and was a little miffed about it.

Carter: "Yeah… That… To be fair, me or my men didn't realize that Barrick gave you his phone number. Might want to give him the talk when all this blows over. But before that, I want to know why you want to contact me. Better be a good reason."

Vince heard that and was a little hesitant about it, but had to explain everything to him.

Vince: "In fact, it is. And I need your help with this."

A few minutes later…

Carter: "I see… So you want us to handle that? Very well, since you helped us with our predicament back in Jasper, we'll help you with yours. I'll go speak with the others about this."

He soon hung up and the group looked on to see what was going on with the conversation. So Thorne asked him about it.

Thorne: "Well… What did Vince said? Is it bad?"

Carter looked to his comrades and responded the best he could.

Carter: "Bad for him? From what he told me, a father of his friend is held captive and there was no word from him or his partner that's with him."

Sofia placed her hands on her hips and was confused about that.

Sofia: "Seriously? That's why he called us? A simple kidnapping? We're soldiers, not the police."

Carter soon explained to them what he got from Vince.

Carter: "That's what I thought too. But Vince gave me the details about the people behind the capture. Don't know much, but from what he said, it is some kind of domestic terrorist organization in the US who called themselves, MECH."

Emile immediately heard that name and was surprised by it.

Emile: "MECH? You mean those guys?"

Everyone turned to him and was surprised he knew them.

Kat: "You knew MECH, Emile?"

Emile turned to the commander and nodded.

Emile: "Only in rumors and news from some units. They are somewhat of rouge terrorist group that wish for world domination. Almost something out of an overblown villain organization in those cartoons. Think of Nazi's but in a modern era, taking technology and using it to their advantage. I knew a few friends who were part of the Dingus operation. Got electrocuted and knocked out on that train that contain that weapon. From what I heard from them, MECH was on the verge of taking the weapon. But they fallback and nearly caused the train to crash. While they didn't obtain the weapon, they were on the verge of global conquest."

Thorne heard that and remembered about an incident that happened a few months ago.

Thorne: "Now that you think about it, I believe I heard of MECH when we got back from Jasper. Some of my classmates when we were at the academy were stationed in the Milton Airforce Base when it was under attack. They thought it was the work of Decepticons considering what they've done in Nevada. But there were some who believes that it was the work of MECH as they send some knew type of transforming soldiers in disguise as vehicles. I thought it was just a joke to talk about around the water cooler. But after hearing this, I believe that they could be the real deal."

Carter heard the two and started to think that this could be a situation.

Carter: "And by the sound of it, this MECH could be a serious risk. And if Vince said that this father of his friend and his partner hasn't come back, it could mean trouble. Our best option is to head down there and stage a rescue."

Kat then turned to him and told him of the set back.

Kat: "With all due respect sir, but if we are going to rescue some people, we need permission of Lasky and Palmer. We can't go off the book without a word from them."

Carter turned to her and got the message. They can't go anywhere without speaking to them first.

Carter: "You're right. Going in head first without their approval could be a problem. Best speak to them of the situation."

He soon looked to the others and told them to wait.

Carter: "All of you prep for a rescue. Kat and I will head to the Captain's quarters and explain the situation. C'mon Kat, let's go."

With that the two turned around and left their bunker while the rest of the team stood there and was in silent. That's when Paduk decided to come in and spoke to Barrick about the vacation.

Paduk: "So… There goes your vacation plans, huh?"

Barrick glared to him and told him to be quiet.

Barrick: "Shut it! My week break is as worse as it is."

End Flashback…

General Bryce: "So let me get this straight. You're saying to me that this Vince, a civilian, contacted one of your men and asked for your help? Even if there would be no outside contact with civilians?"

Carter heard that and slouched down fearing this was going to go down like that."

Carter: "To be fair, Vince was the one who helped us survive Jasper during the Decepticon invasion. If it hadn't been for him, we wouldn't have survived for this long. We even made him an honorary member and are planning to recruit him when he graduates. I didn't know that Barrick would give him his number to call until that day. But it was fortunate that he called us about this MECH situation, especially if two people went missing. Though my team and I rarely heard of MECH until just now. Care to explain to us about that?"

The General sighed and figured he wants answers. So much so that he would talk to him about it with a straight face.

General Bryce: "It is something we've been tied with for a while, since the Dingus extraction. They have been a credible threat as the Decepticons, even more so with the their recent attacks and weapons. This was supposed to be a secret from the lower branches, but with the MECH's recent attacks combined with the Decepticons has us all on watch. You weren't involved in this because you were busy surviving the Con attack."

Carter shrugged it off and figured it was the case.

Carter: "A little heads up would've been nice."

Bryce decided to not back track and talked to him of this action of his.

General Bryce: "Back to the subject. You all decided to handle a rescue mission to extract both John Darby and his partner. Something you need permission from your higher up."

Carter nodded and got the message.

Carter: "That's correct. All assignments need to be approved by a higher-ranking officer. And considering Lasky is the highest within the Military's combat division, I had to go see him for that assignment."

The general listened to this and turned to Lasky for his own personal opinion.

General Bryce: "Captain Lasky, is it all true."

Lasky heard that and knew that it was his turn. So sitting properly, he answered his question.

Captain Lasky: "Yes… It's all true. Noble Leader Carter came to me and told me about the situation with MECH and the missing Darby and partner. Indeed the situation is bleak and they wish to help out in anyway. So I decided to give him a certain answer."

Flashback…

Captain Lasky: "I'm sorry, but I can't let you do that."

Half an hour later, both Carter and Kat were at Lasky's office as they explained to him about the MECH situation Vince talked about. Captain Lasky was at his desk with Commander Palmer by his side, listening to every word he said. But even if it means saving someone, the answer is still no. Carter heard the answer and didn't like it at all.

Carter: "Seriously? Even after what I said, you still won't allow my team in a rescue op? Why's that?"

Lasky slanted his chair back and explained to him the reason why he made that decision.

Captain Lasky: "Carter, I respect your idea of rescuing someone from a MECH controlled facility. However, I'm afraid I can't let you go there when we have bigger problems to deal with. See, the Decepticons have full control of Jasper, Nevada and have placed that dome around them to keep us from getting in. Because of this, it would be a matter of time before they decided to make a move and attack more towns along the way. Which is why we need to have all hands on station, that includes Noble Team."

The Commander soon approached the map behind them and pointed to the location of Jasper.

Commander Palmer: "With the Cons having full control of the town and the barrier keeping us out, they would attack at any part of the desert when the shield lowers. They can strike anywhere, including Vegas. We already have a heavy defense around the dome incase a full on assault would happen. But we need more boots on the group to keep most of the equipment operational. You and your Noble squad would be deployed to Defense Zone 10 to keep it operational when you return from your break."

Cater listened to all of this and was shocked by what he was hearing. From what he gathered, he and his team were going to be in a stationary position because of rising concern with the Cons and their global conquest in the near future. Even after nearly dying in the town they were in long time ago. But what's worse, is that the mission of rescuing John and his partner is officially in the afterburner. He looked to him and told him that this was ridiculous.

Carter: "Captain, I understand that we all need all hands on station for the incoming Decepticon attack. But with all due respect, this MECH is just as a dangerous group as the Decepticons. If this John and the partner of his are in danger, it's up to us to rescue them. Surely you heard of this terrorist group, do you?"

Lasky heard that and turned away, thinking of what he said. MECH… This terrorist group that resides in the US… This is a complex spot he is in.

Captain Lasky: "I'm aware of MECH."

He soon got up from his chair and approached the window close to him. Looking out at the military doing their work, he explained to Carter about them.

Captain Lasky: "I heard of the rumors and MECH and how they operate. Just a bunch of punks that wish to rule the world with the most advance of weaponry, most of which they take from others. The thought of that sickens me to the core when they come from the very country I grew up in. Even so, if MECH has something involved we cannot get involved because it's not related to the Decepticons. Hence the reason why I decided not to grant you permission on heading down there to stage a rescue."

Carter heard this and didn't like it at all.

Carter: "Sir, with all due respect, we got two people in enemy territory that could be in danger. We cannot stand idly by and wait around when innocent people are in danger. And you said it yourself, MECH is home grown terror and you know them well. We need to do something."

Lasky heard his plea and knew that he was right, but they have to focus on what matters to most, protecting the planet from the incoming Decepticon threat. So lowering his head, he told him that they have no option.

Captain Lasky: "I'm sorry, Carter. I wish I could let you and your team handle the rescue, but my hands are tied. The Pentagon wants all of us to be ready if another Con assault happens just like Jasper. You're dismissed."

Carter still wouldn't take no for an answer and tried to reason with him.

Carter: "But sir!"

However, Lasky stopped him there and repeat what he said before.

Captain Lasky: "I said, you are dismissed."

Carter was silent and still had to speak to him about it. But stopped and thought of something. Maybe he doesn't need to get permission from the higher ups, when he and his team can handle themselves. With a smirk he decided to make his leave.

Carter: "Of course, sir. I understand. Thank you for your time."

So he gave a quick salute and Kat following suit. When the two turned and left the office, Kat was a little worried about it."

Kat: "Sir, I don't get you. You want to go and rescue this John Darby and now you decided not to. Care to explain to me why?"

Carter turned to her with a bit of a smirk and reminded him of his plan.

Carter: "Oh, I'm still concerned about the father of Vince's friend."

Now it's a little confusing as the commander asked what he's planning.

Kat: "Sir…? What exactly are you planning?"

That's when Carter turned to her and told her what he's thinking about.

Carter: "I say, to hell with permissions. We're going off the books. We're going to rescue those people."

End Flashback...

So that will be the first part of the Double Trouble extra. So as promised it will be a three parter of this story. Don't really want to outstretch it too long. But it will be a connection within the actual episode. I mean, it seems like a way to stretch the other characters of my own version of Transformers Prime Season 3. So stay tune for the next chapter where Noble Team make their way to the MECH facility and rescue John and Elsa. And trust me, this will be a quick one as I already got the resources for from the previous story. Please Review. #WherearetheGoodCartoons?