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Howdy hey there friends, finally deleted the old chapters! Keeping this here mostly as a reminder for myself but things will change!! =w=
Once again, thank you for liking this and actually motivating me to start it once more with your hearts and bookmarks. =^= made me happy when I got an email saying someone enjoyed my goof idea.Here's what to look forward to:-Ratchet angst as well as a happy little bean SoundwaveWheeljack making things but also worriedOld sickness and painsMegatronus is a smart wittle mech and helps in ways he knows how but also spooked out of his sparkCybertronian terminology and better use for slag. (I notice I didn't do nor use them well)These are the basic things that would be improved on, I haven't mentioned Optimus because well I think it is spoiler territory but note because I fear, this is not a Op/Meg fic. Here they are brothers and I wanna keep this universe this way....to me it would be weird to ship them here. Outside of this universe, my brain is making is completely fine. See ya later!!
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Optimus groaned as he woke up, helm pounding and the world spinning making his tank bubble and turned with uneasiness. The Prime wasn’t sure what had happened, one minute they were scouting the mining this mine for energon cubes then everything just went black. An odd array of events took place to get from there to here but, to optimus’ discomfort, there was no memory of such. That made him overwhelming….frustrated….Pushing himself up to sit on his knees, confused at himself, everything felt off. He felt lighter…Looking around the mine, seeing the unconscious youngling that looked familiar to him. The important question was why, how were they here. Younglings were rare besides Bumblebee and smokescreen thanks to the war and the unfit environment on cybertron to even produce sparklings. So how- Bright blue optics looked back at him which belonged to a white and red mech. He was just as confused as Prime was, sitting beside the white and grey mech who was still out of it.“Prime?….” Optimus’ optics widen, speechless as he looked upon the youngling. It wasn’t surprising that he knew who Prime was, well at least questioning correctly, It was the voice, that voice was familiar…..too familiar. Sounded just like….Ratchet when they were younger. The idea of a youngling sharing the vocal range of his old friend’s past self was interesting. Sharing that voice crack and none interested range of speaking made prime snort.Laugh even. Something he hasn’t down in a long while. It felt as if a weight was lifted off of his spark right then and there. Relaxing his spark and flutter in his amusement, only continuing as the youngling looked at him in annoyance mixed with clear embarrassment.“Optimus I do not believe this is a good time for you to be laughing”“My apologise old friend, I couldn’t help-” He stopped speaking, servoes moved to his throat. Touching it in his own surprise at the sound of the voice that left him. His voice. “Guess I am not the only one who sounds different or, wel their younger self I suppose.” Ratchet smiled as he stood up after patting the resting, what Optimus could only assume was, Wheeljack.“What…..what hap-”“I am unsure, the last thing I remember is us mining down here before we spotted Megatron. After that “ The young medic shrugged before groaning and lightly stumbled back, somewhat struggling to keep his balance. “Helm hurts….”“Mine as well” Optimus mimicked him minus the stumbling, looking at the curled up Megatron. Smaller and lighter framed warlord recharging soundly with not a care in the world, back to being his brother before everything changed. Optimus couldn’t end him right here and now even if he wanted to, instead the prime picked him up with ease. Smiling at how Megatron used to be so ‘tiny’ compared to him. Of course the mechling was taller but his weight never matched that, not to optimus….Orion anyways. “OW!” A voice screamed out followed by a loud ‘CLANK!!’ startling Prime a little yet, surprisingly, the sleeping mech never woke up. “Ah right, Megatronus was a heavy recharger.’ He looked relieved, having the warlord awake right now would cause noise. He couldn’t do anything to any of them due to his frame free of weapons and it is far too light to hold any form of combat, it was just the fact the mechling would make a lot of noise and fuss for the three of them and probably run off. Knowing, more like assuming, his team….followers would end him when they spot him and Optimus….his spark wouldn’t be able to handle that.“What the frag ratchet?!” Wheeljack exclaimed. Looking back, Optimus sees the poor mech rub the right side of his faceplate as Ratchet was typing away on his arm.“You weren’t online and we can’t wait for you to be next cycle. “ the young medic responded bluntly before eyeing the mechling besides him. “So you are up to speed wheeljack, somehow we have been reverted back to younglings. I still have a communication line….just not one that automatically connections to the base or anyone in our team.” Without looking Ratchet holds up his other servo to stop wheeljack from talking.
“I have a line to Ultra Magnus. It is safe to say everything changed as well. No weapons, no autobots lines in the slightest not codes and maps of any sorts. I am not sure if Ultra Magnus has the same line either but it is best to try it.”“.......Alright” Wheeljack stood as well, picking up the swords he brands, amazed that they were still here. “These aren’t...weren’t a part of me, physically, so they are still here which is good so we aren’t completely defenseless.” The wrecker smiles proudly with a chuckle. “I also still have weapons in my code Ratchet. Nothing special but….” Optimus added, resting Megatron down so he could put him on his back instead. “It isn’t the quietest….at least not like our pistols and the axe is close range...”“Your armor plates also, or at least should be, too light for combat really” Ratchet mumbles as the look of realization and remembrance took over his faceplates while the soon-to-be wrecker looked confused.“ You had weapons as a youngling Prime?”“I....yes, my mother and I lived alone for a bit in a not so great side of Iacon when I was younger….” Optimus didn’t sound proud of that fact. “But it is more of a temporary stun….kinda..”Wheeljack squints at that but doesn’t question it anymore, not vocally anyways. “Why are you taking him with us?”“Because we can’t just leave him here….” Optimus didn’t realize he was glaring but the tone of his voice was cold and growl like that even shocked himself before clearing his throat.”Knowing him, he would head back to the Decepitcons….Right now he isn’t himself so it would be the same as sending an innocent to their death.”“Yes….Like all those innocent mechs and femmes that he murdered in this war.” Optimus had nothing to say about that, he simply shifted the warlord so he wouldn’t fall or slip. Wheeljack’s point was valid, there wasn’t anything Optimus could say against it….Doesn’t mean he was upset stil, that was clear when the face mask snapped into place. “Ratchet, did Ultra Magnus respond yet?”“Not yet and I do not care where he goes. Taking him as a prisoner seems to be the right choice for now. I and him should be defenseless right?” The Prime nods at the question asked of him making Ratchet continue with a small sense of ease. “Then he is safer with use. We are Autobots Wheeljack, not monsters.” He lightly glances at the ex-wrecker, in the soft cold tone making him sigh in defeat. Seems that he decided not to start an argument against the medic and Optimus relaxed at this, happy that someone understood his reasoning.The medic walked off, heading to the exit. “Let’s get going, the mines are too low under-ground for the bridge anyways. Best to head up.” The pedesteps of the young medic slowly drift out of their audial-sensors’ range. Wheeljack was soon to follow before Prime rested a servo on his shoulder. “I...I understand that this is uncomfortable. Getting rid of him now would seem like the right decision but…I need you to trust me, alright?” The expression on the shorter mech had softened, looking more like the adult version of himself with the clear sadness in his optics Wheeljack had picked up on eons ago. He shot a smile prime’s way. Widen,’toothy’ pearl whites filled with the familiar charm the wrecker was known for.“Always had sir and I don’t believe i would be stopping anytime soon.”The Prime smiled back in return, chuckling softly as it seemed the old habit of Wheeljack petted his helm returned in a similar fashion to what Jack does to Raphael. “Thank you friend.”“Now come on before Ratchy gets upset that we are taking too long down here and actually decides to leave us.” Wheeljack laughs as well, finally putting away the swords and pulls the wagons they brought with them as they exit. Meeting a somewhat grumpy medic, who seemed to be more tired then angry at the moment which was understandable since they all were.Luckily for the now younglings the ground bridge arrived, stepping through together and wanting nothing more than to recharge. Praying to Primus that this was all an odd dream more than reality. Most of them anyways.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Ratchet’s P.O.V
Arriving back at the autobot base felt like a Primus sent gift, my frame felt too tired and heavy to even walk anymore. I knew why that was, upset with this repeated fate that crused itself upon me like some kind of virus as if it was some twisted joke.Watching the Wheeljack pull those carts as if they were nothing was starting to make my energon boil. I was jealous…Watching the look that was upon Ultra Magnus’ face was delightful though. Always been nice to see that the ‘ well put together’ mech was still not able to mask his emotions as well as he thought. Confusion, concern and just utterly and completely lost suited him well, fun to tease…..if I was childish enough to ever do so, even now I would refuse. I might look like a youngling but I have no desire to act as one.Light pedesteps broke the otherwise silence the room had obtained in the few nono klicks that passed. I forgot that Arcee was still here and had allowed Smokescreen to go and collect Jack today. Something to do with ‘Giving the kid responsibility’, a lot of scrap to be honest. I knew what she was doing while we were out but it really wasn’t my place to say, As long as she didn’t get her aft killed for stupid reasons, I really didn’t care……That….I shaked my helm while rubbing the side of it, surprised at his own thoughts that formed in his processor. Of course i care, she was family now and emotionally she is a mess….“Yes and Optimus is the only one here. Thank you for the welcome Arcee.” I pretended to seem hurt at what I believe she said, I wasn’t really listening. More like looking into her direction, watching her mouth closely. A habit I kept due to hw useful it was . Space out yet focused to watch the words being formed rather than said. Saved the helm-ache from those I truly wished to block out completely.“What happened to you all and who…..is that?” Her face went from concerned to disbelief then displeasure, hands itching to enter into their gun mode. The only reason she didn’t was because the enemy was being carried on the back of Optimus Prime. Glad nothing has to be explained who we were. Guess they weren’t as stupid as they seem to be. There that was again. ‘ Ratchet stop that’ . They are smart and a unique group of individuals who saved your hide more than once. You have no right to talk about them this way. “We are unsure at this point in time…” Optimus started,watching him shift his brother around was also very assuming. Short person carrying someone so tall. Not very tall but to Orion, Megatronus was a tall mechling for his age. “I also beg you to not attack Megatron. in this state he is completely harmless...outside of hand to hand combat but he should not be difficult to restrain” Was that worry? Wonderful, he is normal. This might be easier to deal wi- I vented deeply, clearly that thought from my processor. Optimus Prime is our leader, hiding his emotion came with that package to help the team not feel afraid or lost….even if it felt like he didn’t trust you enough which you know was nor isn’t true.Taking my optics off of this interaction, I see WheelJack. Looking at me in his own worry or pity….In general I disliked that expression from anyone. Especially him…. I raised a hand to stop the conversation that was taking place, that too received an odd look from Arcee. “I would love to stay and chat but I really wish to go and lay down right now. My processor feels as if a scraplet is just nomming away in there, so it is best to recharge before the humans get here please and thank you” I didn’t wait for a response. She couldn’t stop me from going even if she wanted to. I was the medic and still am even in this cursed state. I can hear familiar pedesteps that almost felt comforting but we weren’t mechlings anymore despite how things may seem. “WheelJack, i did not ask for com-”“Are you okay?” I halted suddenly. I should have known he would ask that of all things. Not sure if he saw me limping or watched my movements closely as we waited to be picked up but it really wasn’t any of his concern now was it. “Why? I am obviously fine, I am just tired is all.” The expression on his face plates didn’t change...that was starting to drive me up the wall. I don’t need this nor want this, making me like some weak sparkling that can’t help themselves but. I also understand where it is coming from…. I sigh. “Hey listen, I...I am okay I promise. If this is...is all real and not a short time thing and Primus decides to be cruel to me then I will tell you.” There was a brief window of silence, uncomfortable silence as I watched him contemplate with that look of pity. Wheeljack’s deep thinking face, no matter how long it lasted, was somewhat relaxing in its own way despite what gears turned inside that helm of his. Watching him sigh and relax was also peaceful, the tense he held because of me melted off as much as he could possibly let go. Relaxing his shoulders and slumping forward just a little in the same manner as when we were younglings...this state we were in right now. “Fine but no secrets alright? This is earth...they probably...I don’t want anything bad happening to you because of this.” The sadness in his optics was still there. The emotion I couldn’t help but list as pity but a sad Wheeljack just...rubbed my spark the wrong way. Tingling it in a way that wanted me to ease this sense of worry and fear but we aren’t bonded anymore… I waved it off. “Yeah yeah, I won’t. Relax before your spark burns out from unnecessary stress” I softly grumble as I walked towards my hibernation-suite. Hearing the oft cracks and grinds of my own joints, hoping that it was only audible to me. It didn’t hurt...yet but I was glad he couldn’t see my face. The slightest shift would just make the wrecker worry more. “Rest well Ratchet” “Yeah..you too.” Never been so glad to see my berth as much as I did now. The pounding in my processor seems to return the moment I entered. Flopping onto what this planet could offer cybertronians our size, not minding the clink that was made from the impact. Offlining my optics finally as I wiggled into a position, doing so carefully. As carefully as I could with a frame I considered too heavy at times… I sigh. ‘ Let’s not start that before I don’t recharge..’
xXx
Optimus’ P.O.V
Listening to the soft grumbles and snores from Megatronus was comforting, holding my older brother like I did in our youth was nostalgic. Could almost hear those mumbles of what I would usually call nonsense as he tried to ignore whatever elements of nature that would plague him whenever the cybertron night deems it; but right now my concern was on the two autobot warriors I trained and fought beside for eons...just like Wheeljack, the instinct to end the innocent life of the one I carry on my back would be tempting. I stand by my claim. Right now as he is deep in recharge, this was Megatronus. My brother and I swore to protect him no matter what it takes.A promise I made to someone dear to us both….I will not fail a second time… “I also beg you to not attack Megatron. in this state he is completely harmless...outside of hand to hand combat but he should not be difficult to restrain” I could hear the worry and fear in my voice, the shock look of the femme before me as I looked down at her as I beg, asking what her faceplates deem as impossible and stupid...Glancing at Ultra Magnus for aid. Hoping he understood enough to listen while my only backup left to rest. “I...Of course sir.” I relaxed smiling up at the large mech- “What?” Before tensing up once more, gripping Megatronus’ legs tightly. Moments like these I was happy that he was a heavy sleeper back then. I straightened up, frowning once more as I looked at Arcee. Watching her backed down in a way that made me relax my face….I must have scared her with the unknown glare that was shown. I hope she understood it was not my intention. “We could end the war by ending him. This is our chance to do so while he is defenseless. I don’t know if you remember but he is the one who murdered countless people, younglings or not.He doesn’t deserve this right or mercy.” The sound of engines and fans fill this space between the three of us, it took me a moment to realize they were my own. Angry at what she said and claimed...The truth of what took place before this grace of Primus’ the god gifted me. I only relaxed when the loose grip on my shoulders tightened, calming the fans so he could recharge peacefully. “Arcee, I understand the displeasure of my request but he might not remember any of that. “ “You do so why wouldn’t he?” She snapped. That’s how i understood how she was feeling...why wouldn’t she be angry. “With all due respect sir i can’t rest easy with that monster just walking around the base as with he hasn’t cause everyone distress and pain in some way” Again, valid points. Though it didn’t stop my energon from boiling in the rage I have been suppressing for so long. Being this age again was not aiding me in this emotional struggle. It lso didn’t help that Ultra Magnus was silent….. “What if we watched him? He doesn’t have to be by himself if he doesn’t remember anything. If he does, keeping guard of him would be a smart choice...We aren’t monsters like Megatron or his followers. Despite who he wa-is he still takes the form of a youngling. For now, trust me..please. on this.” Arcee looked at me glaring but I knew it wasn’t for me but towards the mech I held closely. She sighed, or more of what the humans called a huff, as she folded her servos. “I trust you...but not him...if you allow it sir, I rather not be around him” ‘Arcee-” Ultra Magnus started in protest but I stopped him. Smiling at her. That was fair . ‘ I rather you not be alone with him in any way shape or form’ “Granted Arcee. Thank you” I raised Megatronus up a bit more as I felt him slipping out of my grasps. “I would like to take him to my suite so he could finish resting undisturbed” Watching Arcee grimace made me frown again, tensing as she was about to speak again but, luck for me, Ultra magnus beat her to it. “Wouldn’t the medbay be better, just in case he does remember he would attack you as you rest and would ease us all if we can at least see you both” I wouldn’t lie. That annoyed me but once more it was…. Fair… “Alright then...We will be in the medbay/ Please wake me when the children arrive. Explaining this with everyone would be wise.” The two nodded as I made my way over to the medbay, resting the taller mech down on the softest berth in the base. Maybe exploring out throughout the city for sheets big enough, would make Megatronus more comfortable. Lost in my own thoughts as I debate rather or not to actually do such a thing and asking Agent Fowler for such now would be ….uncomfortable or seem as greedy with how limited the resources were on this planet for my kind. Even as a youngling, I grew out of nesting rather quickly, it was always surprising to me when I first met Megatronus that he still did it. Karon was more than a dangerous place and it was interesting that they still had time for these simple luxuries. Once my brother was completely comfortable. I took a place out of the wall against the closest wall to the berth. Raising my pedes to my chest to rest my servos upon as I was drifted mre into my thoughts. I wasn’t sure what would happen next but all I could only hope that Megatronus was Megatronus mentally as he was physically…..I would have my brother back…..to start over mayhaps? Taking this as a sign from primus to redo whatever damage that changed him. Or at the very least fix something….
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Laughs was how the mechling woke up or aided him in getting up peacefully, tiredly worming his way out of a blanket that ‘trapped’ him, tangling up his pedes like they usually do if he slept in his nest.
Did he fall asleep in the sparkling primary programming again? No, that doesn’t make sense because he was….
The look of frustration covered his faceplates as he thought back. What was he doing before waking up...here? He looked around the medbay confused now as it didn’t look like any medbay he assisted in or seen before besides the so-called ‘clinic‘ in the arena that patched up his carrier….vowed never to use nor entered one of these offlining stations ever again. Yet here he was in one that was as, or more, primitive to that one. How this was even allowed to exist was beyond him. Shaking his helm as he stood up, optics finally landed on his brother as he was huddled up in the corner beside the makeshift cabinet deep in recharge. That made him smile.
It was alright to assume that they were somewhere safe then, seeing Orion rest so peacefully was a good sign of that, unlike him who slept anywhere and anyhow; but the question still stood.
‘Where am I?’
The laughter and the mix of a weird language, or what he would assume was a language, caught his attention again only easing the tension he was unknowingly starting to feel when he heard something familiar. Basic. That should help with his confusion...partly...sparklings were the only ones who spoke Basic and some protoforms but it was frowned upon for a youngling to do it and that didn’t sound like a sparkling or protoform…
It came from a youngling that seemed to be the same age as Orion, a yellow-black colour scheme surrounded by other strangers the youngling didn’t know besides Wheeljack.
He didn’t know the engineer-in-training personally, only saw him with Orion on brief occasions and, nearly, always accompanied by Ratchet. The youngling couldn’t help but look around for the other nurse, normally he wasn’t too far from the chaotic mechling. Walking out of the med bay slowly, trying to be as careful as he does, so as he was still nervous to see new bots and….strange organic beings. He only stopped when a hand did. Looking up he saw an oddly familiar faceplate of a mech but that was weird, he had never seen this bot before…
-” Hello...can you tell me where I am, please?.... And who you are?”-
Bright blue optics looked up at the ‘giant’ before him as he spoke in basic to the large mech. The other youngling was doing it so why couldn’t he unless it was going to be some double standard again…
The mechanical aura that surrounded the mech felt empty, was it not safe here or was this mech a guard of sorts? The youngling chirps as his own aura were immediately overjoyed by the idea of meeting some bot from the Elite Guard, not being quiet anymore or at least making a lot more noise than intended as he bounced and stood on the tip of his pedes.
-” Are you an Elite Guard? Are we at a headquarters of some sorts? Is that why it looks so….weird?”- The questions just seem to be flowing out of the youngling as he looked around more, not noticing those who he saw earlier were now paying attention to them. The hand came up again, signalling to be quiet as the large mech got eye-level with him. The youngling covered his mouth with his sevors to try and stop making noise as requested.
:” Is your designation Megatronus?”:
The youngling chirps again, excited that the guard knew his designation but quickly froze briefly in fear. Was he in trouble? Did he do something wrong? Did Orion do something again and he was to take the blame for it?
Panic flooded the aura on the small youngling as he nodded. Megatronus enclosed on himself a bit, staying in place as he tried to make himself look smaller. Watching the large mech with more fear than excitement.
Ultra Magnus faceplate softened, feeling the panic melting off the youngling as the aura shifted, now struggling to stop himself from shaking. Resting a servo on Megatronus’ shoulder, surprised at how big it was on the youngling….This being, the youngling, that destroyed their home….and yet all he saw was the Mechling who taught him when he was a protoform.
:” It’s alright, you aren’t in trouble. I am just wondering if that was your designation or not.”: He spoke in a gentle tone, letting the mechling access his aura now, trying to ease this panic with his own calmness. He gestures over to the medbay.
:” The one in there. Is his name Orion then?”:
Megatronus nodded as he intakes softly.
:” Alright. He isn’t in trouble either, no need to worry about him.”: The large mech smiled down at Megatronus. :” Do you remember anything?”:
Megatronus scouted his processor once more for anything but stopped as the bulky green mech made his way over to them making the youngling look at him, stepping back causing the commander to look back to see most of the team making their way to them.
“Everything alright sir?” Bulkhead spoke up as he peered at their guest, somewhat surprised and unsure of the youngling who looked at him in complete confusion.
:” Why….what is he saying?”: Megatronus mumbles to himself, still loud enough to be heard, as he tensed up once more. Ultra Magnus looks back at him.
:” It’s alright, he is a friend. He is speaking what the humans call English.”: He puts a servo out to the youngling as he turns his attention back to Bulkhead. “This is Megatronus, no harm to anyone so there will be no need to worry. He was asleep for a while before you all returned.” :” Say hello Megatronus”:
:” H-hello sir”: The youngling carefully took the servo offered as he walked closer, hiding behind the giant mech he oddly felt comfortable and safe with. It could be that the mech had an aura around him unlike the group or it could be something else. Bulkhead just gave a small wave of his own as he was unsure of what to do
“Aww, he is cute,” Miko waves as she jumps to be seen. “Hi there”
Raf smiles and waves as well while Jack just smiles at him. The youngling was confused at the jumping little creatures that he assumed were humans...When were there humans on Cybertron?
-” Hey little guy!”- Smokescreen chimes in with an excited wave, surprising the human children as he speaks. -” I’m Smokescreen and this is Bumblebee”- the speeder gestures to the yellow and black bot who gave a small beep before pointing to the humans.
-” That’s Miko”-
“Hiya again”
-” Raf, he can understand Basic “-
The smallest human chuckles and waves once more. “But I, unfortunately, can’t speak it.”
-” And this Jack”-
The tallest of the three didn’t look so friendly, not to Megatronus anyways, but he waved nonetheless. He eyed wheelJack as he stayed ‘hidden’ while the one called Smokescreen continued to introduce the others to him.
-” The big green mech is Bulkhead, no need to be afraid of him he wouldn’t hurt you”- That also received a chuckling noise from the mech.
:” Scouts’ honour”:
-” See!”- Smokescreen chirps and looks back to Megatronus, already deeming the younger bot as a friend. -”And the one you are hiding behind is Ultra Magnus or Boss bot for short.”- He stood proudly with his servos crossed as his aura became accessible to all which radiate excitement and joy. A bit overwhelming but it made Megatronus relax more.
-” No idea where Prime, Arcee or Ratchet is but I think you know this bot,”- Smokescreen placed an arm on WheelJack’s helm. -” Spoke like he knew you but just in case his designation is WheelJack”-
-” I-I know, thank you”- Megatron smiles as Wheeljack looks annoyed. Finally moving out from behind the large mech he used as a shield. Ultra Magnus smiled as well when the youngling felt comfortable enough to move.
-” I’m Megatronus, a pleasure to meet you all”- Megatronus bows his helm slightly. -” My brother is still recharging in your medbay….though I have to ask if you don’t mind, why does it look like that?”-
There was a bit of silence, and confusion from the humans when Megatronus asked that, Wheeljack chimed in as he scratched the back of his helm.
:” Well...Megs we aren’t on Cybertron anymore….”:
Megatronus wasn’t sure how many klicks passed since he got that response….confusion and concern were written all over his face plates. Looking back to the humans before realization seems to hit him harder than it should have, making him stumble back from a small helm ache that seems to have come over him. Ultra Magnus quickly placed his servo behind him in case he fell over.
-” What?...”-
xXx
Optimus re-online his optics once more, looking around the familiar med bay from where was sitting only to be alarmed that the berth was empty. Was it all just his processors playing tricks on him or did the human concept of dreaming took over him? Did he really have his brother in his servos moments ago?
The doubt quickly disappeared as a wave of panic reached him, forcing him to rush onto his pedes and out of the medbay. The source of the panic came from outside the small clinic, a wave so familiar that it cleared up Orion’s questions.
Megatronus.
The bright side was that the mechling was still in the base. Alive. Optimus felt no pain from the wave, just fear then….calm. Well, as calm as Megatronus could get when speaking with others. That was what the voices were.
The sudden panic of his own didn't allow him to pick up on that until now, putting a servo on his chest to feel the spark, and matrix, within him.
'Calm. Collective. Existing in this space. Here with Megatronus unharmed. Nothing to worry about'
Optimus inhaled through his vents and exhaled, an odd action to do but an action that mentally eased him. One he never took seriously at this age.
He exited the medbay, helm held high, back straight and the look of the leader that he was. Making his way toward his brother before standing beside him.
:"Earth...It is a…..rather long story but you do not need to worry yourself about it": Optimus shot Megatronus a smile, one cocky yet confident. The Orion charm.
"I am glad to see that most of everyone is here. I apologize for not greeting you sooner..It seemed that I was more drained than I thought I was. " The previous smile turned quickly to the one the prime rarely showed to his group, one soft and gentle.
Megatronus seemed to still be processing or waiting to ask questions quietly. Optics to the floor while the others looked at the new mechling that entered.
Confusing riddles their face plates, looking back and forth from him to Ultra Magnus, who seemed calm with the situation before them all as if waiting for an explanation.
The silence was deafening. Awkward. Almost enough to make Optimus tense even if it only lasted a few earth seconds.
"Optimus?"
Jack broke the silence that plagued the room and Optimus couldn’t be more grateful for it.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Explaining everything was a lot easier than I anticipated. As easy as any explanation about something you could not explain how it happened. But, nonetheless, it was
simple
. Questions answered to the best of Wheeljack and my ability, ignoring the ones …from Megatronus…for now. The hard ones of course….
“What about him?” The large green one, Bulkhead, asked as he gestures to my brother with concern, undertones of spite or disgust. I could feel my audials flick back into the building annoyance inside me. Rage boiling in spark as my optics gazed across all the faceplates, relaxing when they landed on Ultra Magnus and WheelJack, which was no better with its own uneasiness but it was….something. Better than nothing… The only thing that settled and reminded the rage was that the others had reasons for their ….feelings.
“Megatronus is staying with us. It would be safer for him to be here than with them.” I spoke with a forced cheer, it surprised even me. “Megatronus is harmless, so there is no need for concern."
Repeating this a third time was
DRAINING. Hopefully, it sticks this time around because if another one asks-
I in-vent deeply. There wasn’t a true reason to get all worked up. My team listened to me. They trusted me and my judgement. Megatronus was safe.
Smokescreen and Bumblebee had already flocked towards Megatronus, seeming to aid this new version of the warlord, Ex-warlord in this case, with this anxious situation. Some level of ease for my spark now.
What about Arcee?
Arcee…
“Does anyone know where Arcee and Ratchet are? I don’t see them here.”
“Ratchet has been in recharge for a while now Prime. Had been tired when we arrived so I don’t blame him for sleeping in larger than he wanted to.” Wheeljack answers, servo rubbing the back on his helm. “Though, I haven’t seen Acree for a while now. “
“I think she went out for a drive? Sir.” Ultra Magnus adds but he didn’t seem sure on that either.
Nowhere here so that’s good.
“If you can Ultra Magnus, can you comm her? Just to know where she is. Hearing from her would be nice.”
“Yes sir”
Do we really care? She isn’t here so the worry is less.
The worry is less…
“Thank you.” My gaze returned to the three mechlings. A new form of worry took over me as my optics fell onto Bumblebee. The three seem to be helping Megatronus set up his translator, helping him to be able to understand the youngest human amongst us.
How. How did he feel?
Being around the one who harmed you in such a way…
There was a possibility that the mechling wasn’t thinking about that, or he had such a good spark to separate the two.
Whatever it was, I was grateful. One less person to worry about for now.
Everyone else seems to have gone back to their usual afternoon activities. Miko was talking with Bulkhead and Wheeljack, seeming excited with the new development of her fellow wrecker with the added company of Jack since his guardian was out.
The tension melted from my frame. Now was a true moment of peace.
“Prime! We need to talk about the events of yesterday! There have been reports of weapon fire and -”
Well. A moment of peace while it lasted.
"Are you saying, through a series of unknown events, that you are now children?"
"Yes, that is correct" Optimus kept an even tone as he always does with the agent. Keeping things as they were before 'this whole situation'. "If I knew more, I would not keep that information from you, Agent Fowler but, unfortunately, I do not.."
The older human just stood there, not sure what to do with this information. Gripping the rail, he exhaled in a strong huff of sorts as eyes landed on Megatronus.
Optimus quickly blocked his view. "There is also no need to worry about Megatronus. He is as harmless as ever at this time." He didn't want any more questions about the mechling. It was getting, no, clawing at his last line of patience more than he would like it to. Getting more and more agitated the longer anyone spoke to him.
"Well if you say so," Agent Fowler sighed, relaxing against the rail that was now the main support of his weight. " I trust you on this but, please if it is possible, keep all of this on the down low. I don't think I can tell my boss what you told me without more information" Agent Fowler points at Optimus, a stern gaze as always. "Keep yourselves hidden and we will be good as rain"
"I never had an intention of stopping Agent Fowler"
"Good because we…I was giving concerned about a bright light down in Texas close to camping grounds for a few moments. A few moments to many, prime. Inks lake is far too active this time of year so y'all need to be much more careful than you usually are."
"How are you so certain it was us? " Optimus spoke without thinking, getting defensive at the allegation as if it wronged him personally. Which took agent Fowler back at the sudden tone shift. Behaviour more fitting of a teenager…not the calm and collected leader of the Autobots that the agent has grown to know.
"Because, there were videos popping left, right and centre about some glow along with a string of gunfire in the dead of night which almost made today's news."
"But that could have been just humans messing around. You all seem to enjoy any random amount of violence at any second you can get it." Optimus just sounded annoyed now, running his mouth faster than his processor could realise what he was saying. Fowler glared up at him, arms crossed.
"Were you, or were you, not at 30.743589, -98.3708145 around 04:00 am today?"
"Yes but that doesn't, exactly, prove anything"
Optimus didn't know when he folded his servos but the posture he deemed was one more defensive. A familiar tone that Fowler knew quite well.
"That wasn't a no, so we will not will out the possibility then"
There was a silence between the two. A tension that builds the longer the two standoffs with each other. If it was anyone else, the others wouldn't be as concerned but this was Optimus…..it was odd.
"Orion? "
Optimus jerked, swaying to completely face the mech now walking towards him.
Megatronus, now standing beside the grumbling 'prime', waved to the government office with a smile. One more on the side of an apology than a greeting.
"Sorry Agent Fowler…it has been a stressful set of hours…" Optimus settled, relaxing the tension between him and the human.
"Hmm…Understood" Fowler nods. " but my point still stands. Keep the light shows to a minimum or, call before going for an exploration close to where humans would be common."
"We had nothing-"
"We'll be careful sir, sorry for the trouble" Megatronus took Orion by the servo and pulled the mechling away before this got more out of hand than it already did, taking him towards Smokescreen and the others.
"Are you feeling okay?" Megattonus whispered as he led him. "Do you need fuel?"
Optimus shook his head.
"Hey, mini-boss bot. What's shaking?" Miko called out. The small group of teens, and young adults, were playing video games. A moment of peace while Wheeljack and Bulkhead were chatting with Ultra Mangus.
"Want to join us Op? This race is about to end and -"
The Prime shook his head once more, vents softly hissing at the sudden discomfort that was now upon him.
"You feeling alright, Optimus?"
Optimus looked at Jack. Maybe his discomfort was a bit too readable than he would like, seeing the now worried look on Jack's face before the others took notice. "Yes." He simply answers.
"Are we allowed to go for a walk or drive?" Megatronus asked, more on the lines of a suggestion before making a face close to a grimace. "Well, more of a drive actually." The mechling looked at the other two younglings with some amount of hope in his optics.
:- Well….-: Bumblebee started as his gaze looked at Optimus as if asking for permission.
"Sure! We can go for a drive if you like!" Smokescreen finished with the same level of enthusiasm as always.
"Late night road trip!!" Miko cheered loudly, making the audials of Optimus flinch back a little.
"Um….would it be alright? If it was just me and Ori-….Optimus for right now? You are all lovely, but I want to spend a little while with my brother if that is okay." Megatronus asked, nervousness thick as he lightly played with his digits.
He didn't expect there to be such a loud wave of silence.
"Well…huh…"
Optimus just started walking away from the small group before transforming and raving his engine. Resembling more of a hover vehicle than his infamous truck. Similar but much smaller, which made sense thanks to their reality at this moment.
"Cool!" The rocker girl squealed as the prime drove ahead and out of the base.
Megatronus took this as a sign to follow. Running after the primary coloured car. "We'll be back soon!"
Transforming and picking up the pace to catch up with his younger brother.
There was a sense of stillness between the two, one that was simply just quiet instead of awkward so to say. Megatronus knew very well the other was stressed out right now, who wouldn't be after finding out you are lightyears away from home, or suddenly becoming younger….
Megatronus honestly didn't know what he believed. Everything felt so-
"AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
Orion yelled out into the night, picking up pace. Shifting out of his alt mode and running. Surprised for a brief moment, Megatronus followed.
Driving after the younger bot wasn't hard to keep up with Orion. Watching him kick up rocks and earth plants which were in his way. They were, or what it looked like, far away enough from the head out of the bits under Optimus....Orion's command? One of the main reasons why Megatronus was, for the most part, confused.
"Orion…"
Orion just sat down on the dry ground; Megatronus wasn't sure what this matter was called but it covered the plane as far as his optics could see, he was done running or driving now. Falling onto his back to look up at the stars.
The sounds of Megatronus changing out of his alt-mode were heard, now sitting on his knees, looking down at Orion as he scanned the other's face plates. Watching the hand on his chassis, right over his spark.
"Orion." Megatronus waited for the other to respond. Didn't make sense to continue talking with the other and being unable to listen at the moment. They had time…maybe, Megatronus wasn't sure exactly.
A couple of klicks passed but Megatronus remained seated, smiling when optics actually focused on him now.
"Hmm?"
"You okay?"
"Mhm" Orion offline his optics, intaken to refresh his fans to a calmer mode.
"You don't look okay though.."
"Well, I am. N' reason t' worry." Orion mumbled as he online one of his optics as he raised a servo to pat the other's helm. "Just wanna rest here for a few nano-klicks and I'll be good as new."
"Hmm" Megatronus sat up, optics still on Orion while the other 'closed' his optic once more.
There was quiet between them once more but it didn't sit for long.
"Are you up to talk?"
Orion looked at his brother. "Do I have to get up?"
"No. You can stay as you are"
"Awesome" Orion chuckled. "Yea, I can talk"
Megatronus looked over Orion again as if contemplating his next words carefully.
"I…would like to know what is going on.." the mechling pauses. "I wasn't able to follow earlier. "
The air would have been drier now if the two of them needed to breathe. Maybe the sudden jolt in Orion's vents was a sign of this.
"Hah, nothin' important honestly. Just a lot of weird things right now. So" he finger-guns in Megatronus' direction. There wasn't a reason to keep a wall between him and the silver and purple mechling. "You can just vibe."
"Then." He spoke with a shaky yet even tone, relaxing into a w pose. "Who is Optimus Prime? Why is everyone treating you like you are in charge here"
He wanted Orion to be the one to fill him in, not him just overhearing things between him and the human. Talking to Smokescreen was helpful but he just explained where they were in better detail while helping him set up his translator but not why they were here on a mud planet in space in a galaxy far outside if home.
"Orion?"
It was quiet again. This time it was more tense and uneasy. More dry and suffocating for Orion. For Optimus.
"We…. I am Optimus prime" the 'younger' of the two sat up, shifting his posture so he was facing the mechling. "A general in the Autobot army. Commander of Cybertronian's earth team. Prime. Chosen by Primus out of necessity"
It didn't make sense to lie about this. The basics. Something Megatronus would at least need to know due to it being unavoidable.
"We are here because Cybertron is at war. A war that has been going on for orns now. A war that has Cybertron in a state that is unlivable." He continued. "Earth has the resources for us to survive as well as pieces to help fit our planet " Optimus looked at the mechling before him, scanning his confused grimace.
"You were neutral," He lies. "Someone not part of this besides the little aid you gave to us. Ratchet was our medic. Wheeljack was a wrecker of the elite guard." He pauses again, making sure he wasn't overwhelming Megatronus with the information.
"I. Do not know how this happened. Us being youngling again but I remember who I was unlike you because of the matrix in my chassis…Setting my status as prime even now…My team has no one else but understand this. You do not need to help us if you do not wish to. Do not feel obligated to put yourself in danger."
There was worry. A pain haunts Prime's words. Shaky and dry as if trying not to break under whatever weight he has just set up for himself. For Megatronus if any truth leaks out.
The silence returned….
And it was screaming.
Loud buzzing as the information given was being digested.
Optimus just hoped it was enough. For now. Megatronus wasn't stupid. Megatronus wasn't someone who would take something at face value even if it seems that he does. A kind spark at this age. Trusting right now.
Optimus could only hope that he was trusting now.
"Who…who are we fighting?" The almost timid words cracked Optimus' running processor's thoughts. The silence's weight over the two.
"The Decepticons."
"...Decepticons…" There was a choke excuse of a laugh that left Megatronus making Optimus tensed up.
"Yes."
"So, we finally said enough was enough, huh?" Megatronus jokes. Not a good time for it but Optimus knew and understood why he did so.
"Yes."
"What happened, Orion? Why are you even here if we had good reason to?" The mechling tensed up. Knowing the history of Autobots and Decepticons. Hard not to when you are from kaon and you look from kaon. You are born a Decepticon….
"Why is that even the fragging name of the factions? Who stupid idea was that, to begin with? " Megatronus was upset, not yelling but speaking low and cold. Grumbling under himself.
"It…from what I understood, it is a symbol of pride. For freedom. What they were fighting for started out honourable but…"
".....But?"
"He lost his way. " He avoided Megatronus' gaze. "The dark energon pushed him downwards."
"The fuel of Unicron? I thought that was just a drug…"
Optimus nodded. "It is. It is just…the effects were much stronger than anyone thought ."
Megatronus just let everything sink in. Processing it all the best he could. It was a lot….more than what he expected….even if he didn't know what to expect.
"Is he…"
"Dead." He lied once more. "He was defeated but the war still continues. His own teachings in his intoxicated state led those under his command to see weakness as a mistake in itself and-"
"Did they kill their leader?" Megatronus looked horrified.
"That is a theory, yes."
Gears were turning in Megatronus’ head. Optimus wasn’t sure if this was the time to relax or not. Maybe he said too much. Maybe it would have been best to try and change the subject instead of telling the mechling anything at all. Would possibly stop him from asking questions.
If this was anyone else but Megatronus.
This choice to inform him felt safer.
It was the beginning of a safer path than keeping him in the dark.
Optimus just needed to make sure nothing derails the mechling from getting too close to the truth. Keep what he said the only correct history retelling Megartonus knew.
Keep him safe.
Keep him here.
Keep him from knowing what his future was.
And start something new.
Together.
“So…what is the plan now?”
“I am not too sure...” Optimus answered honestly. What was the next step in all of this? Did he want them to return to normal?
…No….
“For right now, we can just take this one step at a time.” He smiles, relaxing again. “Ease into this until we understand what happened and how. Shouldn’t panic yet….not too much anyways.”
“But aren’t we at war?”
Optimus nodded. “On earth, it is oddly more peaceful than how we started. Scotting for relics and energon is everyone’s main focus.”
Orion flops back onto his back. “Plus the faction we are dealing with here on earth is rather small. Nothing to be worried about. They still need to figure out what they need to do without their leader. They were dependant on him after all it would seem.”
Megatronus’ optics narrowed. “...Alright…”
“Wanna just hang around ‘ere for a klick or two?” He looks over at his brother. “Just stare at the stars for a while? I don’t know if my processor can deal with the noise right now…and the lighten honestly.”
Megatronus relaxed, chuckling as he flopped forward to rest on Orion’s structure, which received an ‘oof’ from the younger mechling, before rolling over to watch the stars with him.
For right now…..It was peaceful.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
They left faster than I expected, not that anyone else noticed since so many optics returned to the screen once they left. Raf cheered at his victory while I handed the controller to Smokescreen."Do you think something is wrong with Optimus? " Jack asked, optics still in the direction of the exit. Guess someone else did. "Hmm?" I raised an optic ridge at the older human. "What do you mean?" Miko voiced my question more clearly as she rolled onto her stomach, resting on my shoulder plates. "Something feels off…different but I can't exactly put my finger on it," Jack muttered, looking back at us, holding onto the railing of the rafters. "Making my gut feel anxious." "Could be him just suddenly overwhelmed" Raf chimed in. "This could be alot for him too""I guess but-" "Can keep a close optic on him, if that would ease you. " I lifted Miko up and onto the rafters so I could stand. "Could just be…this whole situation." I chuckled, gesturing to myself. "Him acting 'odd' could just be old habit codes showing up." "Maybe.." The low grumble in Jack's voice made me tense. Uncomfortable in a better term. "Well. I am off to rechange, systems getting a bit sluggish. So, I'll see you all in a few breems"I made my way to my hibernation suite, leaving the temporary goodbyes with a wave.The discomfort in my tank was replaced with worry as I passed Ratchet's suite. ' He has been in recharge for three breems now. ' That wasn't unusual. It is late and a mecha would be in recharge for that long and more; but it was unusual for Ratchet.' Maybe recharge finally caught up with him?' I let this be for now. Walking away from his door and towards my own once more. ' I'll check on him tomorrow' The next day was tense. A tension in the thick silence in the base.Optimus and Megatronus returned when the sun came up. Megatron was apologising to Ultra Mangus and a grumpy Ratchet when I returned to the main hub while the Prime walked past me without a word. " 'Morning starshines" "Good morning Wheeljack" It was strange to hear such a chipper tone coming from the - future?- warlords amongst . the few grumbles besides Bulkhead. "Hey." Giving a warm, practice, smile after the sudden glitch that gave me. Maybe it wasn't too inviting due to the sudden uncomfortable and confused look Megatron gave me ... .what Megatronus gave me. "You two just got back?" I asked as if making a quick recovery"Should have gotten back here within the breem. Not seven" Hear Ratchet grumble as he stands at the control hub made me smile with a bit more ease."Sorry, we got distracted by this planet's stars and transmission stations. " Megatron…us explain. "Ori- Optimus found one that played podcast stories. It is funny that human stories and writing are very close to our own" He gave a sheepish smile. "Then Orion fell under recharge first'Speaking of the Unicron spawn, Optimus returned with two cubes, offering one to Megatronus while taking a hearty bite out of his. A raw cube of energon, instead of a processed one that was far more manageable. "Woah! Sure you wanna keep munching, Boos-bot. Aren’t those too thick to chew through?" Smokescreen finally made his presence known as he walked closer. "Oh, no. He's fine" Megatronus reassured. "Basically made to bite at this point." He chuckled in an almost nervous tone. "Also….he isn’t listening right now. " That’s where I tune out of their small conversation, making my way to Ratchet. Seemingly standing a little too close maybe since Ratchet moved away. ' Right… ' It hurt my pride just a little…maybe a bit more than a little but I understood why. "So, what are you doing over here all alone, Ratchy" "Looking over the area. ""The campsite?"Ratchet nodded. "Figuring out what happened would be the first step in fixing….” He waved a servo around as the grimace on his faceplates deepened. “This whole situation. " I chuckle at that little dramatic display. "Looking for anything in particular?""Anything out of the ordinary….or familiar for a better word." I hummed. Ratchet being quick on this made sense, considering how much we changed back to our younger selves. Memory cores do not remember anything outside our youngling years if Megatorn was anything to go off from. "Scouting in person could be helpful. Closer to the readings than here" Ratchet paused, looking at his servos for a moment - lighting bits of worry in my spark. "Will need to give it a few cycles due to the humans lurking in the area." He looked back at the screen. "Talking to Agent Fowler could cut those cycles down but we cannot bet on that" Ratchet already sounded drained…And for good reason, this was an 'in the pits' type of problem. "Should-""Comming him now. We'll see what happens, if not. We'll just go there anyways. I'll run this by Optimus…if he is still with us. " Ratchet partly mumbled at the back of his intake. I couldn't help but look at the Prime when Ratchet said that. The - now- mechling was half way through the cube, spaced out -or focused on his own processor pings- enough to not pay attention to anything else happening around him. Not even Orion either from what I could remember. But Megatron behaves as if this was the norm for him."Yeah…does Prime feel off to you?"Ratchet just shrugged. "Should do a scan on everyone soon. '' The medic walked away from the communication hub, I followed behind a good few pedespaces away. "Can lend a hand if you'll allow" "It is simple enough. "I smiled at the somewhat cheeky yet don't care ish front the other put up. "But I rather you do something else" Ratchet continued, optics remaining on the screen before him while he typed up some sort of reminder. I frowned once that 'front' shifted into feeling more like a wall instead. "Like?""I don't know." His tone became grumpy, cold almost.. "Anything useful would work, just not this. I'll do this. " I was taken aback by the sudden anger in Ratchet's words. Only calming down once I saw the realisation in his faceplates. "I just want space, okay?" He mumbles lowly. "Don't pity me" I let him leave for the medbay. "Alright.." I gave a small sigh.Should have expected that outcome honestly. "Jackie""Yeah?.." I turned to Bulkhead, hearing the mech making his way to me. "Wanna come with me to drop Miko to school? " he points over his rotator. " 'Bee already left for early patrol. So wonderin' if you just wanna, ya know, come 'long for the drive?"That put a smile on my faceplate again. Nodding at the suggestion with a servo on my hip as I looked back to the medbay. "Yeah. A drive would be good.""We'll be heading out too! Wanna just show Megs around the city" Smokescreen chimed in with a wave, the idea caught Bulkhead and I off guard, but before any of the two of us could say anything.."We are just informing you. We will return at a reasonable breem this time. " Optimus spoke up, activating the ground bridge. Voice cold. Low that it was almost not heard… "Your feedback is unnecessary" "Well…um, okay" I gave a surprised shrug while Bulkhead rubbed the back of his helm. "Alright!! Let's go!" Smokescreen cheered. "Going to show you some awesome auto modes you two can get. They are the coolest but we can switch 'em up throughout the drive around town." The three left without much else. The drive was a smooth one for the most part. A little sight seeing around the town close by where the humans lived. It was different yet familiar to Megatronus. Jasper felt similar to Koan in a way. Streets were active but not overcrowded. Humans go about their lives in the mundane, in the most respectful way possible. Peaceful. Peaceful was what this was compared to Iacon. The streets were crammed with auto modes and bots. No loud noise from such. This was nice. Nice in both a sad and a genuine good way but-Thinking of home with what he knew now. What he was told. He was still taking that in. Letting that sit in his processors and cook alongside how the other member’s of his brother’s team reacted to him. Fear and discomfort under this willingness…this tolerance they were showing him. The sparklings and smokescreen seem genuine enough that there was room to not feel alert 100% of the time. From the few hours he has been ‘here’ anyways. Reading bots was a skill one needed for the line of work he would like to do. Hasn’t failed him yet so, trusting the signs of today Megatronus ex-vented. //:....”Smokescreen?”....:////:....”Yeah Bud?”....// The cheerful tone of the mechling grace Megatronus’ comms. Relaxing him a bit more than he was seconds before. //:.....”How long have you all have you all been on earth now?”.....//Something to break up the silence. Even if it was nice. He needed something else to focus on right now. //:.....”I think almost a year now?”.....:////:.....”A year?”.....:////:.....”A Kilocycle. A lot has happened over the course of such but hey! You’ll see. It’ll be a lot easier soon enough. Like now.”......://That was oddly comforting.As well as oddly concerning for some….reason. Megatronus couldn’t put his finger on it on why there was this level of unease but -//:...”Oh, Acree!”...://Smokescreen sped up a little, by passing Megatronus now properly to be in front while Orion did the same suddenly as if putting space between the…..Megatronus slowed his pacing. To him, that confirmed his worries, making them feel more clearer in the fact that he wasn’t just misreading the room. Orion was being protective. That was too much of an extreme reaction for seeing a member of your team mates. A supposed friend of his. Or at least an acquaintance.Something to ask Orion when given the chance. For now, he will continue to follow at a safe distance.