Ep 17. Conspiracy

As the seventeenth episode of Transformers Armada season 1, Conspiracy follows the ongoing saga of the Autobots and Decepticons' race to collect the various Mini-Cons scattered across Earth. Tensions continue to build as the two factions confront each other, but things take a surprising turn when a previously unknown force enters the fray.

The episode begins with the Autobots regrouping in their base after narrowly escaping a confrontation with the Decepticons. As the team strategizes their next move, a mysterious Mini-Con suddenly appears before them. The tiny robot claims to have valuable information about the Decepticons' plans, and offers to lead the Autobots to a secret location where they can gather more powerful weapons.

Intrigued by the Mini-Con's offer, the Autobots set out on their mission, with Hot Shot, Red Alert, and Sideswipe taking point. However, as they travel deeper into the wilderness, they begin to suspect that something isn't quite right. The Mini-Con's directions seem to be leading them in circles, and they soon realize that they may have fallen into a trap.

As the Autobots struggle to escape, they discover the true identity of their mysterious guide: a rogue Decepticon named Sideways. Sideways reveals that he has been manipulating both factions from behind the scenes, using his shapeshifting abilities to infiltrate both sides and stir up conflict. With the Autobots trapped and outnumbered, it seems that Sideways has finally succeeded in his plan to destroy them once and for all.

But a surprising ally comes to the rescue in the form of Starscream, a former Decepticon who has grown disillusioned with Megatron's leadership. Starscream reveals that he too has been working to undermine the Decepticons' plans, and offers to help the Autobots escape and regroup.

With Starscream's help, the Autobots are able to turn the tables on Sideways and his minions. A fierce battle ensues, with both factions using all their power to gain the upper hand. In the end, it is the Autobots who emerge victorious, with Sideways narrowly escaping with his life.

As the dust settles, the Autobots are left to contemplate the true nature of their struggle. With so many hidden forces at work, it seems that the race to collect the Mini-Cons may be just the tip of the iceberg. And with traitors and conspirators lurking around every corner, it's clear that the battle for Earth is far from over.