Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Cybertron. A metallic planet much like ours, but different in several ways. One such example is its main populace, the Cybertronians. Instead of the flesh and bones we are made from, they are made up of metal, levers, and gears. But it doesn’t mean that these robotic organisms can’t think and feel. They evolved to have several cultures, diverse cities, and even their own forms of government and religion. But what sets them apart from other life forms is their ability to transform their bodies into vehicles, wildlife, and all sorts of objects. To transform meant taking on the world around them as never before. But life is not always grand. Just like Earth, Cybertron is not exempt from tragedy. It, too, has a history including wars, chaos, and prejudice. Recently, it has been happening again. And it is thanks to two mechs who wanted to change Cybertron for the better, but had strikingly different ways of going about it. 

One wanted to achieve peace through tyranny. One wanted all of Cybertron’s inhabitants to be free. They are at war now. One shall stand. One shall fall.

It had been four vorns since the war started. Cybertron was now split between two factions. The Autobots and the Decepticons. Currently, the Decepticons control the greater part of Cybertron’s city-states, including their capital, Kaon. One of the cities left in Autobot control was the city of Iacon, which served as the Autobots’ main headquarters. It is the place where they were planning their next course of action. An action that Optimus Prime, leader of the Autobots, wished to take ahead of the Decepticons.

Since becoming a Prime, Optimus knew he had a lot of responsibilities. A war general wasn’t one he expected, but he took it seriously. Cybertron would not fall on his watch. Well, that is what he hoped. It was hard to determine if the Autobots would achieve victory in this war or not. If the destruction around them was anything to go by, it was only a matter of time before one side killed off the other. Optimus hoped it wouldn’t come to that. But with a growing lack of resources on their end, things weren’t looking good.

Optimus sighed as he looked out over Iacon from what remained of the old Council building they were using as a base. A massive spaceship was in view, its bright orange color as striking as Cybertron’s sun. It was known as the Ark, the Autobots’ last hope for this war. With Energon- their main life source- and other resources depleting quickly, looking for them off-world had become a priority. Using the Ark, the Autobots could find those resources and use them to gain an upper servo in this war. A servo that could help them win. One that Optimus hoped that Megatron, the leader of the Decepticons, would not gain.

He knew he shouldn’t be thinking about the warlord, but he couldn’t help himself. They were once friends before the war. Close enough to be brothers. But that all changed after they started to rebel against their old government, which had been controlling the masses through a cruel practice known as Functionism. Once a young Cybertronian was old enough to work, their alt mode--what they turned into--would determine their job, their function . Not following the rules set in place by the Functionists would have extreme consequences. Some are worse than others. Overall, it was a caste system. One that oppressed those of lower castes. For cycles, Cybertronians would turn a blind optic to these injustices. And that was mainly because their leaders had a knack for keeping the majority of their actions under wraps until they were exposed. And no one was more affected than Megatron, whose function was placed in a lower caste. Spiraling into a rage-induced rampage, he sought to eradicate the corrupt council and then claim Cybertron for himself, betraying Optimus in the process. It was the single most devastating event in Cybertron’s history to date. That event was also part of how Optimus became a Prime. Primus, the god of all Cybertronians and the planet itself, saw him as worthy of becoming one after making the ultimate sacrifice. After that, Optimus did everything he could to ensure Cybertron would be a free planet even if he had to face his former friend, leave his home behind, and lay down his own life. That he promised as long as his spark burned.

“Are you moping around again?” a feminine voice said, snapping him out of his daze. He turned around and it was his conjunx, Elita-1. The pink femme stood in the doorway, servos on her hips. She fought alongside him as a commander of the femmes in their army. A strong-willed warrior, even. Overall, she was the love of his life.

“Oh, uh, Elita,” Optimus stammered. “I didn’t hear you come in.”

“Given the way you were staring off into space, I don’t blame you,” Elita said, walking up to him. “You got something on your processor, don’t you?”

Optimus sighed. “You’re right,” he said solemnly. “So much has happened since the war started. I only hope that the Ark will help us find the resources we need to win this war.” He looked back out the window, the ship’s presence ever so obvious in the city skyline. 

“I’m sure it will,” Elita reassured him, cupping his helm and stroking her digit along his battle mask. “Our people are counting on you, Orion. They have been since you became a Prime.”

“Easy for you to say,” Optimus said, taking her servo in his. “They wouldn’t believe the pressure I felt when I was starting. To think that being an archivist and a law enforcer had been easier than this.”

“When is it ever easy?” Elita sighed, tapping her helm against her conjux’s. “But at least we’re fighting for a bright future we can all live in. Hopefully, without any Decepticons trying to kill us once every deca-cycle.”

“With how close to death I’ve been several times during this war, I don’t disagree with you,” Optimus chuckled half-heartedly.

“Don’t you go around saying that to the troops,” Elita warned teasingly. “If anyone’s going to kill you for almost dying, it’s me. Anyways, I think you should come back downstairs. People have been wondering where you’ve been.”

“Even Ratchet?” Optimus jokingly asked, fully aware of his medic friend’s wrath.

“Even Ratchet,” Elita snickered. “Now, come on. I heard that Kup wants you to watch the drills for the younglings.”

Down in the lower levels of the base, the Autobots had turned the old Council building from a center of politics into a military hotspot. Mechs and femmes went about creating weapons, doing science experiments to help the war effort, and training soldiers. In the center rotunda, the Younglings willing to take part in the war were being trained to one day enter the battlefield. They all ranged from the early teenage vorns to young adults. Kup, a grizzled old mech with a teal and silver paint job, was in charge of bringing out their potential. He was currently putting them through a series of warm-ups where they had to time transforming into their alt-modes for them to get used to doing so several times in a battle. Two red and yellow brothers in front, however, were not having fun.

“Ugh, when is this going to end?” said the red mech, his black helm condensed in coolant. “Please tell me I’m not alone in this, Sunstreaker.”

“You most definitely aren’t, Sideswipe,” the yellow mech told his brother. “If this ruins my finish, we’re done for.”

“Ugh, enough about your finish,” said an agitated femme beside them, her pink and white paint shining in the light. “There are better things to worry about, and this is not one of them.”

“Of course, it’s something to worry about!” Sunstreaker shot back at her. “Do you have a screw loose in your processor, Arcee?”

“We’re at war,” Arcee reminded him. “Nobody is going to care if they get a measly scratch on themselves.”

“Well, Sunny cares, and by extension, I do too,” Sideswipe put in. “Can you blame my brother for wanting to look good?”

“Whatever,” Arcee huffed, rolling her optics as she yet again went back to root mode. “Just don’t make a mecha-cow out of it.”

“You’re making a mecha-cow- OW!” Sideswipe was cut off as the back-servo of his commanding officer hit his head. He dropped to the floor, groaning, while Kup gave him a stern look.

“That’s enough, privates,” the old mech reprimanded. “The Prime is coming to watch your drills. If you behave, you might get a place on his crew for when the Ark embarks.”

Arcee perked up. “Wait, Prime? As in Optimus Prime?” she said, standing up immediately. “He’s coming here?”

“Oh, I am unprepared!” Sunstreaker mildly panicked. “Does my paint look okay?”

“You look fine, bro.” Sideswipe gave his brother a thumbs up, wincing as he rubbed the back of his helm. Kup hit him pretty hard. 

The rest of the young bots joined in upon hearing this news. A chance to be on Optimus Prime’s crew?! That was the dream of a lifetime! “Yes, he’s coming.” Kup rolled his eyes like this wasn’t new. “He’ll be down here in a few kliks, so I expect all of you to not cause problems in his presence or there will be Pit to pay.”

“Careful, Kup,” said the familiar baritone of the Prime himself. “You wouldn’t want to scare the younglings. They aren’t full-fledged soldiers yet.”

Everyone gasped in unison as they watched the Autobot leader approach. For many of them, this was their first time seeing him up close in person. The twins and Arcee, however, had known Optimus for quite some time. Arcee had first met him when her high-class parents hired him for security at one of their parties back when he worked in law enforcement. Sideswipe and Sunstreaker, on the other side, were refugees taken in by him and the early members of the resistance when they were still teenagers. This didn’t stop them from marveling at his presence, though. Primes were considered one of the most important people on Cybertron, after all. They just had that type of energy to them.

“So, how goes training the recruits, Kup?” Optimus asked the old mech. Elita-1 stood by him, nodding to Arcee and the twins.

“Besides a few complaints about drills, these youngsters have been up to par, Prime,” Kup told him. “They’ve even memorized their code names in just a deca-cycle. They even answer me when I immediately call for them.”

“Mind giving us an example?” Elita requested. She was eager to see how far they’ve come.

“I’ll do you one better,” Kup smirked. “I can make them answer roll calls just by calling their code names!” He cleared his vocalizer. “ATTENTION!”

All the younglings gathered in formation, standing at attention. “We’ll be doing a quick roll call!” Kup ordered. “When I call your number, give the Prime your designation! S-40!”

“Springer!”

“WB-80!”

“Windblade!”

“SW-9! SS-10!”

“Sideswipe!”

“Sunstreaker!”

“BL-6!”

“Blaster!”

“LB-16!”

“Little Blur!”

“B-264!”

“Blurr!Sir!ApartoftheintelligencedivisionItisanhonortobeinyourpresencesir!”

“RC-7!”

“Arcee!” 

“R-86! B-127!” There was no response. Kup coughed awkwardly and called them again. Still no response. He glanced at the two spots next to Windblade, seeing that they were empty. Oh, Primus. Don’t tell him… He facepalmed hard. He should’ve expected it. That turbo-revving young punk and his enthusiastic brother were in so much trouble.

“Kup, where are Bumblebee and Hot Rod?” Elita said in a worried tone.

“Your guess is as good as mine, Elita,” Kup groaned. “For all we know, they’re outside the base right now.”

“WHAT?!” Optimus and Elita shouted. 

“You two know how they are,” Kup pointed out. “Hot Rod can never sit still, and Bumblebee tends to go along with whatever his older brother plans out of boredom. Honestly, considering who their creators are, I am not surprised.”

The Prime sputtered. He got them there. In all the time those kids had been in their lives, they had a knack for getting in trouble, Hot Rod especially. That boy had a fiery spark and often used it for the most insane escapades imaginable. Bumblebee, on the other servo, was less inclined to do such a thing, but his constant curiosity got him into all sorts of shenanigans, most often by accident. This time, however, they were likely both in on it.

“Oh, my Primus,” Elita moaned into her servos. “Do you at least have an idea where they could be?”

“Oh, I think I heard them conversing about doing an Energon run a few cycles ago,” Sunstreaker decided to share. “Only I didn’t know when until now.”

“An Energon run,” Kup slouched over in annoyance. “They are really that eager, aren’t they? Did you hear where they could’ve gone?”

“Possibly the neutral area between Iacon and Kaon, I think,” the yellow mech shrugged. “Bumblebee would not stop talking about it.”

“Thank you for telling us, Sunstreaker,” Optimus nodded to him, some relief returning to his spark. “I will gather a team to look for them straight away. They can’t have gone far.”

“Optimus, you can’t be serious,” Elita interjected. “We don’t even know how far they’ve gone. Our enemies could still be out there. There’s a chance you could get hurt even if you do find the boys.”

“They are my responsibility as much as yours, Elita,” Optimus reminded her. “Only Primus knows whether or not they will run into Decepticons, so we must take drastic measures. You’ll be in charge while I’m gone. I promise Hot Rod and Bumblebee will be okay.”

Elita sighed. He was right. Hopefully, those two boys will be alright. If and when they got back, she was going to give them a stern talking-to. Cross her spark.

Meanwhile, a few kilo-cycles out of Iacon, two vehicles were driving their way around the long-dead roads of Cybertron. The one in front was magenta-red and orange with flames along its hood area, and a large yellow spoiler in the back. The one behind it was a bright yellow and slightly smaller in frame. They drove up a large portion of the surrounding debris, transforming in mid-air. They landed in root mode, smiling in unison. They turned to each other excitedly. This was the craziest plan they ever made, but they didn’t care. For all they knew, brothers Hot and Bumblebee were going to be the shining stars of the youngling recruits when they returned with the energy they were looking for.

“I can’t believe we’re doing this,” Bumblebee jumped up and down in excitement. “If this doesn’t get us in trouble, I don’t know what will.”

“It was pretty easy to escape the old mech’s optic,” Hot Rod said nonchalantly, stretching his limbs. “Once we find that energon, we’ll be the talk of the base.”

“I’m surprised we were even able to do it,” Bumblebee continued. “Do you think they’ve noticed we’re gone by now?”

“Heck if I know,” Hot Rod shrugged, bringing out a scanner from his subspace. “Right now, let’s focus on finding that energon. We have to be close to a stash of it by now.”

The two brothers began walking across what looked to be an abandoned battlefield. As long as they ignored the dead bodies, finding that energon was going to be a piece of oil cake. Bumblebee focused on his older brother as he grimaced and turned his gaze away from a cadaver close by. He looked up to Hot Rod just as much as the two of them looked up to their sire. He knew as long as they stuck together, everything would be fine.

They were both still sparklings when the war started. Hot Rod hadn’t even had his alt-mode that long in the orbital cycles leading up to it. After officially joining the Autobots, they made it their mission to protect the people of Cybertron. For Hot Rod, it was his chance to prove himself. To be a hero. When he heard that there were traces of Energon outside of Iacon, he just had to take the chance. With Bumblebee, he was eager to show that his status as the youngest and shortest recruit wasn’t limited to those aspects. He could do more than what others mecha think. When Hot Rod told him about the Energon run, he jumped at the opportunity. He was on his way to becoming a full-fledged Autobot.

A few kliks of walking had gone by when the scanner started beeping rapidly. They finally had a signal! They immediately began to follow it, sparks beating fast. An abandoned warehouse comes into view, a faint pink glow coming from one of its broken windows. Upon entering, a massive stack of energon could be seen in front of them. They had hit the motherlode!

“Jackpot!” Hot Rod exclaimed excitedly. He knew they would find some.

“Holy Primus,” Bee said in awe. That was a lot of Energon. How were they going to transport all of it back to base?

“This will last us for deca-cycles!” Hot Rod deduced, feeling his servo along one of the many cubes. “They might even help fuel the Ark!”

“Yeah, but how are we gonna carry all of this back?” Bumblebee asked. “I mean, it’s just the two of us.”

Hot Rod blinked. “Huh,” he exclaimed. “I didn’t think of that. I never thought we’d get this far.”

“Seriously?” Bumblebee deadpanned. Then again, he and his brother could get very excited really fast and never think ahead until it was too late. A lot of scoldings from their parents were a usual consequence during their sparklinghood.

“Okay, I admit that was poor planning on my part, but we can still work on this,” Hot Rod reassured. “We’ll just take as many as we can carry and hightail it back to base. Soon, everyone will be thanking us for putting forth our efforts to support the cause and help stop the war.”

“I hope so,” Bumblebee nodded. “It feels like forever since it started. Who’d think that we’d get involved?”

Hot Rod couldn’t help but agree. He was only 12 vorns old when the war started, and Bumblebee was 10. The day it all began… When Megatron came to be… It was a lot. Now, a war was going on, and it seemed like the Decepticons were winning. With the upcoming launch of the Ark, finding any resources necessary was crucial to the Autobots. It was one of the reasons they even went on this little expedition. They needed this energon. If not, then the war would be a losing game.

“Come on, let’s get this energon into our subspaces,” the magenta speedster urged. “We’ve got a long road ahead of us.”

Unbeknownst to the brothers as they loaded the energon, something had detected it as well. High above the barren wasteland, three jet-like aircraft were flying towards the position of the two Autobots. Bumblebee’s audio receptors caught the sound of their thrusters as they got closer. He looked out the window of the warehouse, noticing three familiar color schemes. Blue and white, black and purple, and a glaring crimson red surrounded by cyan and white. They belonged to mecha he knew all too well. The Elite Trine of Seekers. Decepticons!

“Uh, Rod?” the yellow mech said nervously.

“Yeah, Bee?” Hot Rod responded.

“We’ve got company.”

Hot Rod’s optics widened as he looked outside. He had not accounted for Decepticons, much less the Elite Trine. Stowing away the last bit of energon they could get their servos on, Hot Rod led his younger brother to a secluded warehouse area far from the entrance. They hid themselves as best they could behind a decrepit wall. Hot Rod even lowered his spoiler so as not to appear so obvious. The Seekers got closer to land, the sound of transformation filling the air. The three fliers hit the ground with small shockwaves, all of them with varying expressions: Thundercracker-doubtful, Skywarp-manic glee, Starscream-an egotistical smirk. The brothers gulped. Just their luck.

“Well, this is where the signal came from,” Thundercracker announced as the trine made its way inside. “This old energy storage warehouse still has multiple energon cubes in stock. How we missed this is a mystery to me. But are we even sure we should be taking these? Shockwave says we have more than enough fuel for the Nemesis.”

“Any fuel is a good fuel, TC,” Skywarp said nonchalantly, wrapping his arm around his trinemate’s shoulders. “If you ask me, the more energy we have, the less the Autobots can get. It’s our key to winning the war.”

Thundercracker sighed in annoyance. “The war is about taking Cybertron and establishing a new form of government, Skywarp,” he told the black and purple Seeker. “Fighting over resources is only one aspect of it. If you ask me , the only way we’re going to win this war is if Optimus Prime surrenders to Megatron.”

“Pfft, like Prime will ever do that?” Skywarp rolled his optics. “Even Megatron is too stubborn to hand Cybertron over to the enemy. For all we know, they’ll be killing each other before any side can talk things out.”

“Are you sure about that?” Thundercracker asked, giving his mischievous trinemate a look.

“Pit if I know,” Skywarp shrugged. “Hey, Screamer, what do you think?”

Starscream gave a scoff, turning to his trinemates with contempt on his faceplates. What a silly notion. “Megatron may have gained the greater parts of Cybertron, but he’s a fool,” he said with a hint of exasperation. “He may be a good leader in battle, but when Optimus gets involved, he loses all his competence. In my opinion, the war would have ended earlier had he taken out the Prime when he had the chance. And he’s had several. If I were the leader of the Decepticons, I would see that things get done faster.”

“Too bad you’re stuck as Second-in-Command,” Skywarp chuckled. “It would be a miracle if the big boss stepped down and had the gall to give it to you.”

“I’d hold your glossa if I were you, Skywarp,” Starscream growled. “I’ll get my chance. And when I do, the Decepticons will thank me, including you.”

“Okay, that’s enough,” Thundercracker came in, getting between them. “We still need to get this energon back to base. We can have this conversation later.”

As the Seekers went off to load the energon, Hot Rod and Bumblebee were planning on how to escape without getting caught. “What if we went out that window?” the speedster suggested, pointing to an extremely fragile-looking window.

“Are you crazy?!” Bumblebee whisper-shouted. “If that thing breaks, they’ll hear us!”

“Okay, good point,” Hot Rod relented. “Do you have any ideas?”

“I don’t know! I thought you had some,” Bee said in a slight panic. His fear of getting noticed was rising. They could not afford to go pede to pede with Decepticons when they had very little field experience.

Hot Rod huffed in frustration. He had to admit his thought process was muddled right now. While he and Bee had never faced Decepticons before, he knew what the Elite Trine could be like. And given the fact they had lethal weapons on their persons along with those unique personalities of theirs, they would be screwed. So, time was of the essence, and Hot Rod had no idea how they were getting out of this. Now that he thought about it, maybe doing this off-the-datapad energon run had been a bad idea. 

The speedster took a peek at the Seekers. They were still talking and loading the Energon that he and Bee didn’t take. He glanced at Starscream, the mech’s raised thrusters making clicking sounds as he walked. They reminded him of the high heels femmes and haughty and selfish high-class mechs would wear. He guessed Starscream became a bit of the latter over these past few vorns. It was… different from how he was as a kid. It wasn’t the time to think about that, though. There had to be some way to escape from here without getting noticed. To Hot Rod’s surprise, it finally came in an unexpected form.

There was a rock on the ground next to his foot. Immediately taking the opportunity, Hot Rod grabbed it and threw it to the other side of the warehouse. The sound it made caught Skywarp’s attention. The Seeker stopped what he was doing to check it out. As he made his way over to where he heard it, Hot Rod signaled Bumblebee to move as quickly and quietly as they could. They weren’t the stealthiest of bots with their bright-colored plating, but they should at least make the most of what skills they had. They made it to some old crates and hid behind them, hoping they would make it to the exit in time. 

Back with the Seekers, Skywarp was confused. He swore he heard something but couldn’t find where it came from. Whatever it was, he was gonna get to the bottom of it. That is, if Starscream wasn’t so rude as to interrupt.

“What in Primus’ name are you doing, Skywarp?” the tri-colored Seeker demanded.

“I thought I heard something,” Skywarp answered, still looking around.

“Well, whatever it is, it’s gone now. Now get your tailpipe over here and finish helping us with the energon.” Skywarp didn’t listen despite Starscream’s insistence. He kept investigating the warehouse, determined to find what caused the disturbance. Hot Rod and Bumblebee went stiff as he got close to the crates. Thankfully, he didn’t think to look behind them just yet. They quickened their pace, eager to get to the exit as soon as possible.

“I mean it, Skywarp!” Starscream insisted again, his impatience growing. 

“No, seriously, I definitely heard something,” the purple and black jet insisted. “It might still be in here with us.”

“It was probably just some debris settling,” Thundercracker tried to assess. “These buildings have been falling apart for a long time.”

“Then why hasn’t this one fallen on top of us yet?” Skywarp squinted, totally not convinced.

“Well, maybe not all at once,” Thundercracker shrugged. “Sometimes the structures take time to decay so-”

“Enough!” Starscream shrieked. He was at his last limit. Why is he even trined with these idiots?! “I don’t care who or what made that so-called noise. Right now, our job is to gather the fuel and take it back to headquarters! We have stalled long enough! So are you two going to shut up and help, or do I have to make you?”

Skywarp and Thundercracker glanced at each other, concern for their trinemate growing. When Starscream was angry, it showed. Those optic lids twitched like mad when he was on the verge of losing his temper. So, at this moment, it was probably better to listen to him before he threatened to shoot them just so they would comply.

“Sorry, Star,” they said in unison, immediately getting back to work. The trine leader gave a frustrated huff. Out of all things to deal with, it had to be this. Even if there was something else in here, it is no concern of theirs. Unless it’s Autobots, of course. He’d rather they attack some of them than deal with this idiocy. 

“I swear,” Starscream said to himself, pinching his olfactory sensor.“If my goal to become Decepticon leader wasn’t in the way, I might shoot myself with my null ray. Anything to rid myself of this stupidity. A “noise” made by something in the warehouse. As if there is anything else besides us in this dumb-”

CRASH!!!!!

The Seekers whirled around to the source of the sudden crashing sound. The stack of crates nearby had been knocked down. And right next to it were two bots they never thought they would see today. Hot Rod was in an awkward position on the ground, having just accidentally toppled the crates as he was making his way around them. Bumblebee was standing next to him, looking very frozen and scared after he ran into his brother by accident. Just his luck for not watching where he was going. They all stared at each other for a few klicks, processing what had happened. 

“Heh, heh,” Hot Rod chuckled awkwardly. “Long time, no see, guys. Um, we were just leaving, so we’ll get out of your helm plating and-”

“Autobots!” Starscream shouted. “Just what do you think you’re doing here?!”

“Going home!” Bumblebee nearly shrieked, getting Hot Rod up and pushing him towards the door.

“Hey, get back here!” Skywarp demands, aiming his null ray at the brothers and shooting right at them. The blast hit near their pedes, throwing them off their balance. Despite trying to avoid danger, they were now in the midst of it. No choice but to defend themselves now!

“Bee, get your blaster out!” Hot Rod urged the yellow mech, activating the built-in blasters in the exhaust pipes on his arms. He aimed at Skywarp, shooting to throw the mech off. Starscream and Thundercracker joined their trinemate, filling the warehouse with gunfire.

Bumblebee brought out his blaster, fumbling with it a bit before steadying it enough to shoot. Thank Primus, that Ironhide gave him those extra firearm lessons. He shot directly at Thundercracker, causing the blue seeker to duck down at the suddenness. For someone short for his age, he was an insane shot. He would’ve lost an optic had he not reacted in time.

Skywarp, on the other servo, wasn’t as lucky. Hot Rod got him directly in the cockpit, toppling him over. That didn’t mean he was down, though. A flash of purple light surrounded him, and he was gone. Hot Rod blanched when he saw this. He didn’t have a chance to react when the Seeker reappeared behind him and swung at his legs. He recovered just in time to transform and speed off, creating a cloud of dust that irritated Skywarp’s optics. Transforming back, Hot Rod parkoured up to the second floor of the warehouse, signaling Bee to take evasive action. Starscream, however, wasn’t having it.

Activating his thrusters, he shot up toward the second floor, landing a few feet away from the flame-decaled speedster. “You have a lot of faulty circuits to come here,” he spat, giving Hot Rod a murderous glare.

“Oh, as if you’re any better, Screamer,” Hot Rod teased. “Are the Decepticons that desperate for energon?”

“We might as well be if you Autobots don’t stop stealing it!” Starscream said back. “This war would be over much sooner without you creating problems at every opportunity.”

“Us? Creating problems?” Hot Rod gasped in a joking manner. “Oh, I am hurt. Have you no sense of decency? We’re just trying to survive.” That last part was true. Not that he was telling Starscream that.

“Stop joking! Why are you even here?!” the Seeker demanded, pointing his null ray directly at Hot Rod’s helm.

“Okay, okay! I’ll tell you!” Hot Rod rolled his optics. He quickly glanced downward to see if Bumblebee was okay before answering. He was currently in alt-mode, driving circles around Thundercracker and Skywarp, his small size making it hard to aim. He’ll be fine on his own.

“We were just here to get energon, that’s all,” Hot Rod explained, carefully backing away. “Just a small run. We didn’t even plan on you guys being here.”

“Neither did we!” Starscream yelled, the null ray powering up. “Now, who sent you? Prowl? Jazz? Ultra Magnus? Optimus Prime?!”

“No one did!” Hot Rod yelled back. “We came here by ourselves. We don’t have any reason to fight you!”

“Oh, let me guess, you defied orders so you could prove yourselves to be the heroes,” Starscream said mockingly. “Quite the mistake on your part. You’ve always been reckless, so I’m not surprised. All those times you stowed away on your father’s patrols when we were younger were more than enough evidence.” His faceplate darkened. “ You even had the gall to drag me along.”

“That was one time, Starscream,” Hot Rod reminded him, not wanting to dwell on it, given what happened back then. “Just let us go. We don’t have to fight.”

Starscream smirked. “Oh, I could let you go. But I won’t.” His null ray went off, knocking the red speedster down.

“Oh, scrap,” Hot Rod groaned in pain. This was gonna be harder than he thought. But he wasn’t going down. Neither was Starscream. Even if it meant sending out a distress signal... 

Wait a klick! Why didn’t he think of that earlier?! It would have saved so much time!

As Starscream loomed over him, he quickly sent out the signal to the one bot he trusted with his and his brother’s lives. Hopefully, he would get here in time to bail them out. They needed him more than ever right now.

A way from the warehouse, a lone bot watched the fight between the Seekers and the Autobot brothers. The brand of the Decepticons was prominent on his chest, and his red visored optics were in intense observation. Zooming in on the inside, he caught Thundercracker and Skywarp finally catching Bumblebee. The little yellow bot struggled in their grip while Starscream descended with a limp Hot Rod in tow. The red Seeker threw him to the ground with a satisfied sneer, proud of his work. From what the mysterious mech could tell, this altercation had not only ended in the Seeker’s favor but had also provided them with valuable hostages.

The mech pressed a button near his pauldron, opening his chest. “Laserbeak: eject.”

A cassette flew out, transforming into a cyber-vulture. It circled before landing on its master’s arm. “Assume Operation: Observation,” the mech ordered in a monotone voice. The mechanimal did as told, taking flight towards the warehouse. 

The mech watched as his beloved cassette did his duty. As for himself, it was time to do his. After all, Soundwave did nothing to disappoint his lord and master.

“Lord Megatron,” he said into his comm. “Elite Trine: located. Starscream: acquired hostages.”

“Hostages, you say?” the chilling voice of the warlord said in return. “And just who did Starscream capture? He better not be wasting my time with foolish frivolities.”

“Elite Trine’s prisoners: Autobots Hot Rod and Bumblebee.”

Megatron went silent for a moment. Then, Soundwave heard an amused chuckle. One with dark intentions. “Well, you’ve piqued my interest, Soundwave. I will arrive by Groundbridge shortly. Make sure Prime is there. If there is anything that will make him comply to surrender, it will be through those close to him.”

Hot Rod groaned as Starscream threw him to the ground. Surprisingly, he could hear Bumblebee shouting at Skywarp to frag off. If their carrier were here, she would be lecturing him for swearing. The clicking of Starscream’s thruster heels came next to his audials. Hot Rod lifted his head to glare at the Seeker, who was smirking down at him. Oh, if only he could smack that smug look off his faceplate. If only he had reacted to the null-ray shot faster. He had the training for it!

Starscream, meanwhile, was having an ego trip. He and his trine had just captured two Autobots they not only had history with, but quite possibly the most important members besides the Autobot High Command. Not only would this help elevate his status, but it would also get him closer to becoming the leader of the Decepticons. Now all he had to do was contact Megatron. There was no way he would resist having them as hostages.

“Hey, Screamer?! A little help here!”

Starscream’s mood was ruined by Skywarp’s whining. Turning his gaze away from Hot Rod, he saw Bumblebee swearing incessantly, thrashing around in his trinemate’s grip. Thundercracker tried to help keep him steady, but accidentally let go when the yellow bot kicked him in the pelvic region. From what Starscream could tell, Bumblebee had definitely grown a pair these last few vorns. It wasn’t enough, however. He only managed to stop when Skywarp used a taser built into his digit to make the Autobot go limp. Had he used it earlier, Thundercracker would not be on the ground in pain.

“You seem to have it under control,” Starscream teased.

“Yeah, yeah, whatever,” the purple Seeker rolled his optics. “You know what’s eating me, though? What are we going to do with them? I mean, why in Primus’ name did they even come out this far? Was it some kind of mission assigned to them by Optimus Prime?”

“H-he doesn’t know…,” Hot Rod groaned in response to this, wincing in pain. “We went out by ourselves. Just to… just to find the energon.”

“Wow. Hear that, T.C.?” Skywarp whistled. “They wanted to play hero. You’d have to be really stupid to do that.”

“As if we weren’t doing the same thing,” Thundercracker groaned, the pain of Bee’s kick still lingering as he got up. “The only difference is we were actually ordered to find it.”

“Regardless, they are under our mercy now,” Starscream told him, still smirking. “They’ll be our ticket to achieving an advantage over the Autobots.”

Hot Rod was very close to miraculously gaining his strength back so he could punch the Seeker. An advantage over the Autobots? That meant they were hostages and could be used to turn the war in the Decepticons’ favor. Hot Rod looked over to Bumblebee, who was recovering from the taser shock. He just had to bring him into this. It was his idea to do the energon run, and he let Bee come along out of his own volition when he should’ve said no. When his distress signal was hopefully answered, Hot Rod swore they would pay for hurting his little brother.

“So, we’re holding them for ransom?” Thundercracker questioned, a bit skeptical. The Decepticons had done hostage exchanges before, but how was this any different?

Skywarp scoffed. “What do they have that would give us an advantage? Megatron’s got more power than any Cybertronian combined.”

“So does Optimus Prime,” Starscream clarified. “Throughout this entire war, they have been at each other’s neck-cables, yet they are still equally matched. It doesn’t mean they don’t have weaknesses, though.”

“You don’t mean…” Thundercracker gaped.

“Hot Rod and Bumblebee are Prime’s weakness,” the trine leader nodded deviously. “By taking them hostage, he’ll have no choice but to give in to whatever we demand of the Autobots. We could take their energon, their weapons, we could even get them to surrender!”

“Optimus will never surrender to you, ‘Cons!” Bumblebee interjected, glaring up at them from the ground.

“Shut up, you yellow pipsqueak!” Skywarp yelled back, kicking the poor bot in the abdominal plates. “You’re lucky we’re even keeping you alive!”

“Hey, leave him alone!” Hot Rod shouted at the Seeker. 

“Or else what?” Skywarp sneered as he watched Bumblebee hold his stomach in pain. “You’ll go cry to your carry?”

“Leave my mom out of this!” The speedster was finally back on his pedes, the effects of the null ray overrun by his rage alone. He charged at Skywarp to teach him a lesson. The journey was cut short by Thundercracker, who apprehended him back onto the ground in the blink of an eye.

As Hot Rod writhed in the blue Seeker’s grip, Starscream knelt on one knee in front of him. He expected this out of the speedster. If there was anything that sent him over the edge, it was his younger brother in pain due to another’s cruel actions. It was of no matter, however. They had what they needed, and nothing was going to stop them.

“Very noble of you to protect your brother, Hot Rod,” Starscream said in mock praise. “That’s a part of yourself that didn’t change these past few vorns. It would do you some good to stop writhing around, though. We can’t have an unruly hostage, can we?”

“Go slag yourself!” Hot Rod spat in the Seeker’s faceplate.

“Touchy!” Skywarp snickered. “It’s no wonder you have the glyph hot in your designation. Get it? Because you’re a hothead!”

“Shut up already!” Hot Rod shot at him. “It’s your fault my brother is hurt right now, and I’m not letting it slide! Hostage or not!”

“Calm down, mech,” Thundercracker hissed a warning. “If you don’t cooperate with us, you’re going to make things worse for all of us.”

“That was thrown out the window when you decided to attack us!” Hot Rod countered back, struggling in the Seeker’s grip.

“That was Skywarp’s doing,” Thundercracker reminded him. “Starscream and I joined in when you started shooting back. Trust me, I didn’t want it to escalate either, especially after you caught us off guard.”

“WE DIDN’T EVEN MEAN TO! WE WERE TRYING TO GO HOME!!!!”

“That’s enough out of you,” Starscream growled, pointing his null ray in Hot Rod’s faceplate. “Now you better get yourself together before I shoot you a second time, so help me, Primus.”

“Like I said before, go slag yourself,” Hot Rod repeated. “Better yet, get fragged!”

Oh, that was the last straw! Aiming directly at Hot Rod’s spark, Starscream put his null ray at a setting high enough that he could knock him unconscious. As it charged, Bumblebee was able to lift his helm enough to catch Starscream in the act. Glancing at his brother, Bee could tell Hot Rod didn’t give a scrap about Starscream’s anger at him. At this moment, however, he wasn’t sure how much more they could take. If only there were something that would end this nightmare. Something to interrupt this stupid confrontation they never should have taken part in. Something-

“STARSCREAM!!!!”

The Seekers and brothers turned to the voice in surprise. At the entrance of the warehouse was a mech that held both intimidation and regality. A mech who didn’t take any slag from Megatron, no matter the circumstances. To Hot Rod and Bee, he is their rescuer. To the Seekers, he was who they wanted to see, but not like this! Why? Because it’s Optimus freaking Prime and he looked downright scary!

The Autobot leader didn’t come alone, either. The Seekers instantly became surrounded by his most trusted soldiers. Prowl, a former Iacon policebot of Praxian origin, his second-in-command, Jazz, saboteur and head of special ops, Ironhide, weapons specialist, and Ratchet, Autobot Chief Medical Officer. Four dangerous mechs alongside a chosen of Primus, armed to the dentae. Not a good combination for the most inexperienced of Decepticons. Not that the Elite Trine was inexperienced, but it sure felt like it. Hot Rod and Bumblebee, on the other servo, felt relieved to see them. If there was anyone who could help Optimus get them out of this, it was Autobot High Command.

“Put your weapon down,” the Prime said sternly, his optics glowing intensely as he walked toward the trineleader. “And no one gets hurt.”

“I’d do as Prime says, little Seeker,” Jazz advises Starscream nonchalantly. “We don’t want any trouble.”

“Trouble is what got us here in the first place, Jazz,” Prowl rolled his optics at the saboteur. “But, thank Primus, we got here in time.” Seeing the relieved but still slightly panicked younglings they came to retrieve was pulling at his spark chamber.

The Seekers were frozen in place as their optics cycled between each Autobot surrounding them. Starscream still had his null ray pointed at Hot Rod, but due to the current situation, he was debating whether or not he should remove it like Prime said. Either he refuses and threatens to blast it in the speedster’s spark to enact the hostage exchange, or he gives in to the request. Well, it was quite a predicament, if he was being honest with himself. Although he could find a way to turn this to his advantage. He just needed the perfect opportunity.

“Hey, Star, you got any ideas?” a frantic Skywarp whispered to him. Thundercracker gave an equal look of panic, even with Hot Rod still in his grip.

“Just follow my lead,” Starscream told them.

“Anytime now, mechlings,” Ironhide urged, his cannons already out despite the desire not to accidentally hurt the younglings.

Starscream merely laughed. Adults could be so impatient. “Calm down, everyone,” he said nonchalantly. “Let’s be civil about this and talk this out.”

“There is nothing civil about aiming a weapon at a defenseless bot,” Ratchet pointed out. “At least tell us you haven’t used it on him once already.”

“Uh, about that, Ratchet…” Hot Rod said nervously.

“OH, FOR PRIMUS’ SAKE, YOU DID?!”

“Easy, Ratchet,” Optimus gestured for the medic to calm down. “Starscream, I want you to tell me why you’ve taken two Autobot cadets hostage. As far as I’m concerned, they’ve done nothing to you.”

“Done nothing?!” Skywarp shouted in disbelief. He forcefully grabbed Bumblebee by the hidden scruff bar and held him up. “This little pipsqueak nearly blasted TC’s helm off! That’s definitely something!”

“You blasted at us first!” Bumblebee retorted. “We were only trying to leave! So it’s your fault!”

“Good to know my lessons worked, but I’m with Little Bee on this one,” said Ironhide. “Autobots don’t start fights unless we need to. This is obviously on you and your team, Skywarp.”

“Skywarp may have shot first, but he probably wouldn’t have had to if they hadn’t trespassed,” said Starscream. “They are very near Decepticon territory, after all.”

“But this is neutral space,” Jazz said, confused. “It wouldn’t be considered trespassing as long as they didn’t cross borders. And believe me, I’ve had my share of border-crossing.”

“Not to mention it is illegal to start up fights in neutral areas,” Prowl backed up. “That would be breaking not only the Tyrest Accords but also several wartime laws in general.”

“War is war, “ Starscream countered. “No matter who is on what side. You’re all guilty of something even without the Accords. Last I checked, Tyrest left the planet when the war started picking up, so what’s the point in following them?”

“A lot of points, actually,” said Jazz. “If Ultra Magnus were here, he’d be lecturing ya for joors on how they really work. He is the Duly Appointed Enforcer, after all.”

“Ugh, don’t remind me,” Hot Rod shuddered, remembering the class cadets took to properly know how war works, should they ever go out in the field. Despite being a hostage, he pitied Starscream should the jet ever be subjected to Ultra Magnus’ lectures.

“Regardless, this is uncalled for, Starscream,” Optimus stepped forward, determined to get Hot Rod and Bee back to safety. “Now, I won’t repeat myself. Why have you taken them hostage?”

“Isn’t it obvious?” Starscream sneered. “We just want a simple exchange. Your Autobots for something I’m pretty sure Megatron wants from you. I could call him now if you’d like.”

“And what would he want from me?” Optimus asked, hoping the answer wouldn’t be what he thought it was.

“Your complete and utter surrender, of course.”

Heavy footsteps shook the ground as they entered the warehouse, and the voice belonged to them. Each mech’s gaze traveled toward the newcomer, all of them shocked by the sudden presence. A presence that would make the feistiest turbo fox cower in fear. Grey metal shone in the little light that came through, the Decepticon insignia in the center of his chassis. A large black fusion cannon was attached to his arm, and blood-red pools made up his optics. Megatron had made his entrance, and he was letting everyone know.

Starscream was surprised that he came so quickly. He didn’t have the chance to call him yet. Looking to the large mech’s left, though, Soundwave was seen dutifully following his master. That explained a lot, no surprise there. Nevertheless, it was the perfect opportunity he was looking for. The Autobots just had to surrender now.

“Ah, Lord Megatron,” he said, a little nervous because of the suddenness. “I was just about to call you. Looks like Soundwave beat me to it.”

“Had you been more observant, you would have noticed Soundwave surveying the situation,” Megatron said in a condescending tone. “But either way, I commend you on your efforts, Starscream. No matter how outlandish they seem.”

“Thank you, my Lord,” Starscream quickly bowed, feeling a small amount of relief that Megatron wasn’t berating him like usual.

“Mech, you are a suck up sometimes,” Hot Rod said, knowing that just a couple of breems ago, Starscream had been critizing the warlord for being a bad leader.

“Shut up,” the seeker shot back through his teeth. Why were Autobots so difficult?

“What are you doing here, Megatron?” Optimus demanded, even though he already knew why. Hot Rod and Bumblebee were hostages in this situation. Like the warlord said, surrendering to the Decepticons in exchange for them was what they wanted out of him. Even if Megatron followed through on it, there was a chance he would twist it more to his liking. Especially if it included destroying Optimus himself.

“I thought it was already obvious, Prime,” the Decepticon leader chuckled darkly. “We both know this war has gone on too long. Both Autobots and Decepticons are tired of fighting. So, in exchange for those precious sparklings of yours, we put it all behind us? I know it is what you desire for all of Cybertron.”

“You also know I won’t give in to such a thing,” Optimus retorted. “The only way the fighting can truly stop is if Autobots and Decepticons make peace with each other. Even if I do surrender, you will find another excuse to cause further bloodshed.”

“This bloodshed wouldn’t have happened had you not gone against me, Prime ,” Megatron spat.

“As far as we’re concerned, you started the bloodshed!” Ratchet interjected. “For Primus’ sake, it was like you had a temper tantrum that never stopped. Why else did you think Optimus went against you? If I were him, I’d have hit you on the helm for enacting terrorism like it was justice.”

“The Hatchet’s right, Megs,” said Jazz. “You went pretty crazy.”

“And you still are,” Ironhide said under his breath, but Megatron’s tightened fist indicated he heard it anyway.

“Regardless of how you started the war, you are responsible for the loss of many lives, including those in your own faction,” Prowl brought up. “All Optimus asks is that you stop the fighting without fighting !”

Optimus smiled softly under his mask, happy that his comrades backed him up. However, given how miffed Megatron looked for being called out like that, there was a chance this would get out of hand. He had better find a way to de-escalate the situation before Hot Rod and Bumblebee get caught in the crossfire.

“Please, Megatron,” he said, taking a step closer to the warlord. Everyone in the room stood in silence as he attempted to bridge the gap between them. Hot Rod, Bee, and the Seekers could only imagine what would happen if he finished. 

“This can end without the need for either of us to surrender to the other. All I ask is that you let the boys go free. They won’t bother the Decepticons until they are old enough for the battlefield. If possible, there would be no need for them to step onto one if we could just talk. We can end the war if we do. Cybertron can live on if we join forces to bring peace to not just our planet, but the universe itself. Please, Megatron. You know from the bottom of your spark it is what we wanted before all of this started. So, please, if not for me, do it for Cybertron. We can bring our people together, Dee. We can--”

“THAT’S ENOUGH OUT OF YOU, PRIME!!!!!”

Megatron was seething now, his cannon powered on and pointed at Optimus’s spark. Now that the Autobot leader thought about it, he must have gotten carried away. Enough that, without realizing it, he used Megatron’s old name. A name he left behind.

“Cybertron will only achieve peace under one rule and only one rule alone! My rule! Peace through tyranny!” the warlord bellowed. “As soft-sparked as you are, you are right about one thing. Surrender is futile. Starscream! Execute the hostages!”

“With pleasure,” Starscream sneered, eager to oblige. His null ray once again aligned with Hot Rod’s spark, the magenta speedster flinching as it powered on.

“Uh, guys,” he said frantically. “I think now might be a good time to get out of here.”

“I second that!” Bumblebee shouted, kicking Skywarp in the gut. The black and purple jetformer let him go due to the abrupt pain, leaving the yellow bot an opening to tackle Starscream’s arm and jerk it away from his brother, the null ray hitting the ceiling.

Meanwhile, Ironhide took the opportunity to grab Thundercracker. The blue Seeker yelped in surprise, letting go of Hot Rod. The speedster immediately transformed and took off, Bumblebee also transforming and following behind him. There were almost to the warehouse entrance when Soundwave decided to play a dirty trick.

“Ravage: eject,” the Decepticon TIC called out, releasing another cassette like Laserbeak, but this time, it was a savage black cyber-cat, growling aggressively.

“Oh, scrap!” Bumblebee screeched as he and Hot Rod braked upon seeing the metal feline. 

Ravage was almost to them when blaster fire hit him. It came from Prowl, successfully turning the cat’s attention to him. “Not today, Ravage,” he said before turning to Optimus, who was still in a staredown with Megatron. “Prime! What’s your call to get the boys out of here?!”

“Have Ratchet escort them out!” Optimus ordered. “You, Ironhide, and Jazz keep Soundwave, Ravage, and the Seekers busy. I’ll take care of Megatron.”

“Yes, sir,” the SIC nodded, immediately signalling everyone to carry out the orders before Ravage pounced on him, trying to bite his doorwing off. He threw him off, knowing that fighting the cassette wouldn’t be easy given how unpredictable they were, but that didn’t stop him. After all, who was he to question his Prime when it concerned the Autobots’ safety?

“Follow me, boys!” Ratchet transformed and turned on his sirens, leading the boys out of the warehouse as fast as they could.

“They’re getting away!” Starscream noticed, aiming at the medic.

“Oh, no, you don’t,” Jazz smirked, blasting the Seeker’s null ray off his arm.

“Hey! That’s not fair!” Skywarp growled. 

“You’re right, it isn’t fair,” Jazz shrugged nonchalantly before giving him a more serious expression. “When you’re threatening to shoot a cranky medic, that is.”

Thundercracker gulped, remembering all the stories he had heard about the Autobot CMO, along with some personal experiences of his. According to him, Jazz was right. It was a bad idea to shoot a medic when he was doing his job, especially when it was someone like Ratchet. His trinemates didn’t seem to care, though. So, reluctantly, he joined them in fighting Jazz just to get to Hot Rod and Bumblebee.

With Ironhide, he was evading Soundwave’s sound attacks. Speakers connected to Soundwave’s pauldrons blasted high-frequency sounds directly at the weapons specialist, aiming to knock him off his pedes. Despite his added bulk, Ironhide was experienced enough in dodging to know when they would land. When an opening came, he used one of his special cannons to blast the Decepticon. It was getting a little frustrating, though. Mainly because Soundwave was good at dodging himself. The fragger.

“Would you hold still, you overgrown music box?!” he yelled gruffly.

“Negative,” Soundwave deflected. “Ironhide: Needs to work on his aim.”

“I would have better aim if you stopped moving!” the red mech shouted back, only to get hit by one of Soundwave’s attacks.

“Advice: Ironhide should also work on his focus.” The red mech groaned. Hopefully, Optimus was faring better than him. It was the Decepticon leader he was clashing with after all.

Just as Megatron noticed that his hostages had escaped with Ratchet, he charged at the Prime with uncontained fury. Before Optimus could react, the warlord’s fist met the side of his face. Fortunately, it didn’t do much damage thanks to his battlemask, but it did hurt. Optimus countered the punch with one of his own, recovering quickly from the previous blow. They had done this song and dance before. Optimus knew that eventually the blows would become predictable. He just needed to hold him off long enough for Ratchet to get Hot Rod and Bumblebee far enough away from here.

Another punch came. This time, Optimus grabbed Megatron’s arm and tried to throw him over his shoulder. The gray-painted mech instead twisted himself around so he could helm-butt the Prime. Optimus narrowly avoided it, back-flipping to transform into his alt mode, an armoured transport truck. He used the flatbed to knock Megatron off his feet, only for the warlord to transform into his own alt mode, an armoured tank. He used the turret to blast at Optimus. He drove out the way, the fusion-powered round instead hitting the side of the warehouse, narrowly missing Starscream mid-flight. It caught the Seeker so off guard that Jazz was able to grab onto his wing and bring him down.

Transforming back, Optimus rushed forward and ripped the turret off of Megatron’s back, forcing him to transform back as well. Using the turret as a weapon, Optimus smacked it into Megatron’s side. It did some damage, but Megatron remagnitized it to his back and shot another round from it, throwing Optimus into a stack of empty crates. Prime barely got his bearings back when the warlord came upon him again, pounding his fists relentlessly into the Autobot’s face. To get him off, Optimus revved his engine and used the wheels on his stabilizing servos to push them both forward. In the process, Megatron was flipped over, but he managed to steady himself enough to transition into a three-point landing. Optimus went into one himself, staring Megatron down.

“Give it up, Megatron,” he said confidently. “There will be no hostage exchange today.”

“I was foolish to think that you’d go through with it, Prime,” Megatron growled, his servo transforming into a weapon. A morning star made of energy with a purple glow. “I won’t make that mistake again.”

“Given how long we’ve known each other, you sure have a hard time learning from them unless it benefits you,” Optimus countered, his servo also transforming into a weapon. His was an energy axe, glowing orange, edged with blue.

“Give me one good reason to not extinguish your spark!” Megatron roared as he yet again charged, flailing the morning star about.

Taking immediate action, Optimus swung his axe, blocking the morning star’s impact. Megatron countered this by wrapping the chain of the weapon around the axe’s shaft and pulling Prime towards him. Optimus shook it off by whirling the axe around, thrusting the weapon forward into Megatron’s shoulder. The warlord screamed in pain as the heat of the axe melted his outer armor, energon dripping from the wound. After Optimus took it out, he swung his morning star into the Prime’s side, the energy spikes shredding his armor. 

Optimus grunted in pain, holding his servo up to the slash marks to slow the gushing innermost energon. Ratchet was definitely going to have a few choice words with him when they regrouped with him and the boys. Many that he knew would be colorful. He glanced at Megatron. The warlord was on his knees, morning star deactivated so he could clutch at his burning wound. He probably had a few moments before he got back up to try killing him again. 

Taking the opportunity, Optimus checked on his team. By the looks of it, they were starting to struggle. Jazz could hold his own most of the time, but the Elite Trine had him outnumbered. Starscream seemed to have regained his composure and was now leading a series of maneuvers to undermine the saboteur. Even with his own tricks, Jazz couldn’t evade all of them for long. Ironhide and Prowl had to team up because Ravage reunited with Soundwave to team up against their adversaries. Their fights had turned into a shooting battle, Soundwave and Ravage on one side while Prowl and Ironhide hid behind some crates, shooting whenever they found an opening. Should this go on any longer, the Decepticons will overwhelm them. Even Optimus couldn’t hold his own against Megatron for that long. All he hoped for right now was the safety of the boys. Ratchet had to have led them far away enough by now. He just had to!

“Prime!” Optimus startled. Ratchet’s voice had come through the comms. Did he already get far enough to resume communication?

“Ratchet, what is it?” Optimus commed back, grunting again as a twinge of pain came from his wounds.

“Before I lecture you on the obvious fact you got yourself injured, I just wanted to inform you I got the boys to a safe location,” Ratchet told him. “They are a little rattled, but fine. So, if you would be so kind, GET YOUR AFT OUT OF THERE!!!!”

There was no arguing there. After getting the coordinates from Ratchet, Optimus gave one last look at Megatron. The warlord glared at him, grinding his dentae in rage. As much as Optimus wanted to find a peaceful solution, there was no talking him down. The time to retreat was now.

“Autobots!” the Prime shouted, catching the attention of his troops. “Ratchet has brought Hot Rod and Bumblebee to a secure location. It’s time for a tactical retreat. Transform and roll out!”

“NO!” Megatron yelled in anger. Not when he had been so close to winning this war.

Immediately, Optimus’s team transformed in response to their leader’s orders. Jazz even digit-gunned the Seekers before he transformed, leaving Starscream in a rage that Thundercracker had to hold him back from attacking again, since there was no use in doing so now. It certainly did not help that Skywarp laughed at the trine leader’s reaction to the retreating saboteur.

Said saboteur reunited with Ironhide and Prowl as they rushed past Soundwave and Ravage, avoiding the missiles and sound attacks. Optimus transformed and followed suit, trying his best to ignore Megatron’s guttural scream as he made his way to the exit. Ravage attempted to shoot another missile towards the Prime in a last attempt to stop them from escaping. Optimus narrowly avoided it, speeding up till he hit his limit. The missile ended up landing in the leftover energon, creating an explosion that destroyed half of the warehouse. The Decepticons got caught in it, all of them thrown back by the force of it. It left Megatron in a damaged state, with burns all over his frame. He lifted his helm, watching as Optimus drove away. It would not be the last time he watched him go. He promised he would win this war, no matter what it takes. That was a promise.

Ratchet believed he was a patient mech. As patient as he could be. As Chief Medical Officer, it was his job to ensure that all his patients got the care they needed. Even if that meant he had to yell at them to stay in their berths because he had not cleared them for duty. It was similar to his life as a doctor before the war. The only difference being the more frequent injuries and… deaths. If they hadn’t died on the battlefield, they would have permanently gone offline in his medbay. At the very least, they passed somewhere safe. That was good. It meant he was able to give them some safety and peace in their last moments.

On the occasion, he was called to be on the field, and death was more present; he would do anything he could to ensure the victims stayed alive until they could get proper care back at base. To his unfortunate chagrin, it happened with Optimus more times than he could count. Ratchet would often keep the self-sacrificial fool stable until they could get to a proper medbay. He almost died a few times, too. The poor doctor was afraid to lose him. But that wasn’t something he should dwell on right now. He had more important priorities to focus on. Said priorities being the teenage mechlings in front of him.

“Ouch!” Bumblebee flinched as Ratchet welded a small scrape on his arm.

“Hold still, Primus, darn it,” the doctor reprimanded, steadying his welder. “It’ll be over soon, so please stop moving.”

“Sorry,” Bumblebee apologized. As Ratchet continued welding, the yellow bot looked at his brother. Hot Rod had already gotten patched up before him. Ratchet prioritized him first due to his bout with Starscream’s null ray. It was diagnosed that he’d recover, but he was warned not to interact with anything electric until his frame could handle the voltage again. The young speedster was looking out the entrance to the tunnel they hid in, checking for Optimus and the rest of the team. He seemed pretty anxious for them to get here.

Ratchet noticed this and sighed. “Kid, you need to be patient. It hasn’t been that long since I told Optimus that we’re safe.”

“Easy for you to say, Ratchet,” Hot Rod huffed in frustration, facing the medic. “He was about to fight Megatron when we got out of there. Something could have happened to him.”

“Hot Rod, if there’s anyone who can face Megatron and survive the encounter, it’s Optimus,” Ratchet reminded him. “Given how many times he’s fought the fragger, I don’t doubt it.”

“Yeah, but still!” Hot Rod insisted, throwing his servos up.

“Maybe he’s fine, but got delayed?” Bee asked anxiously, hoping he wasn’t making it worse.

“That doesn’t help, Bee!” Okay, based on his brother’s reaction, it did make it worse.

“Calm down, Hot Rod,” Ratchet said calmly but firmly as he finished up the last of Bumblebee’s welds. “Optimus will be fine. He won’t be unscathed, but he’ll be fine. You can count on that.”

Hot Rod sighed, shoulders sagging. The doctor was right. Optimus would be fine. He has come from worse, after all. Still, he couldn’t help but feel a little worried. It was always that way whenever the Autobot leader fought Megatron.

The sounds of driving reached their audials. Looking out the tunnel entrance, the trio could see four vehicles in the distance. It was Optimus and the rest of the team! They made it out! Once they got inside, they all de-transformed. Optimus had a bit more difficulty due to his injuries. Ratchet immediately ran over to him, keeping him steady as he checked over the wounds.

“Easy there, Prime,” he said. “Come on and sit down. Don’t need you losing any more energon than you already have.”

“Thank you, old friend,” Optimus nodded to the medic. “How are the boys?”

“I think they can tell you themselves,” Ratchet said, setting him down. “They’re your sons, after all.”

“DAD!” Hot Rod and Bumblebee rushed over, nearly toppling Optimus over as they hugged him.

“We’re so glad you’re okay!” said Hot Rod in relief.

“How did you get out of there?” Bumblebee asked frantically.

“I’m okay, don’t worry,” Optimus chuckled. He grunted in pain again. “Although it would be kind of you to back up a bit. I’m currently bleeding out.”

“Oh, sorry, Dad,” Bumblebee apologized quickly. 

“Oh, yeah, sorry,” Hot Rod said as he and Bee backed off so Ratchet could do his work.

“Thank you,” Optimus thanked them, tired from the day’s events. It was a successful mission, though. His sons were safe and sound, and that’s what mattered. He still had to get a full report, though. Elita would need to know what happened in full when they got back to the base.

“Mission report, Jazz?”

“On it, OP.” The Autobot TIC brought up a holographic analytics chart that showed the details of the mission. “Everyone, including your kids, is all accounted for. A few scuffs here and there, but according to Ratchet’s nifty health scanner, we’re all alive and healthy.”

“Of course, you are,” Ratchet snorted. “I had it programmed to make sure you boltheads weren’t injured from doing anything stupid.”

“Stupid is quite the word, Ratchet,” said Prowl. “The only reason we had this mission sanctioned was because of the misguided attempts of a couple of younglings who weren’t aware of the consequences until the last klick.”

“Oh, cut us some slack, Prowl,” Hot Rod snapped at the SIC. “Sure, Bee and I ran into Starscream and his friends, but we got what we came for. Energon for the Autobots.” He confirmed it by showing Prowl one of the energon cubes still in his subspace.

“Energon is nice and all, but you and Bee were nearly killed, Roddy,” Ironhide reminded the speedster. “Had Optimus and the rest of us not gotten there in time, you both wouldn’t be here right now.”

“He’s right, Rod,” said Bumblebee. “We could’ve died, or worse. I don’t want that to happen to either of us.”

“Your brother has a point, Hot Rod,” Optimus told his son. “I almost lost you two today. Neither me or your mother would want you boys to go offline this soon. Not on our watch. When we get back to base, we are going to talk. I’m sure your carrier will have some words to share with you when she hears about what happened.”

The boys gulped. Getting lectured by their mom was never fun, but it was one of the consequences they would have to inevitably face. That and the possible cleaning duty they would be subjected to by Kup as punishment for doing this energon run in the first place.

“Are we gonna be punished?” Bumblebee asked after that thought.

“In any other circumstance, yes,” Optimus nodded. “But, considering the danger you were put in, I might lessen the punishment. But only after you and your mother talk about it. Okay?”

“Okay,” the boys repeated, resigned to their fate. 

“Continuing with the report, there’s a chance the Decepticons got away with some of the energon that didn’t get caught in the explosion when we left,” Jazz continued as he looked through the charts more. “There’s no saying on how much, but it is slim.”

“Great, just what we need,” Ironhide rolled his optics. “‘Cons with more energon while we’re left with the scraps.”

“Which is why our off-world mission to find energon off-world is important,” Optimus emphasized. His optics filled with righteous fury and somberness. “And if I know Megatron, he’ll do anything to stop us from doing so. Anything to make sure Cybertron is under his rule and his rule alone.”

Unknown to the Autobots, as Optimus was talking, something was listening in on the conversation. Up above them, unseen but close to the entrance, was Laserbeak. The mechanimal spy was recording the conversation, waiting for information the Decepticons could use against the Autobots.

“The Ark won’t be leaving for another two decacycles, sir,” Prowl reminded the Prime. “The search is imperative, but shouldn’t we be thinking about what the Decepticons could be using their energon for? If they are this determined to hoard all the energon, then they must realize that we need it, especially for something this important.”

“I am not oblivious to it, Prowl,” Optimus confirmed. “I don’t know what they are planning, but I’m sure that we’ll know when the time is right.” 

He looked towards the outside, hope swelling in his spark. “As long as we have Primus to guide us, I know in my spark it will help turn the tide of this war.”

In the distance, a cyber-vulture was flying over the horizon. Due to this distance, the Autobots did not know it was Laserbeak. He had the information he needed. It was only a matter of time before Megatron would use it to his advantage.

“AAAAAAARRRRRRRGGGGGHHHHHH!!!!!!!!”

The screams of rage had been going on for over a groon now. Starscream winced as he watched a patched-up Megatron destroy multiple training dummies in the training room. To think that he had no control over his anger after all this time. And of course, it was because of Optimus Prime. The Seeker shook his helm. This was why Megatron needed to step down as leader. This obsession didn’t serve them well, and it was only a matter of time before it would destroy them. Once he became the leader of the Decepticons, Starscream would make some necessary changes.

“Is he ever gonna stop?” Skywarp asked, sitting behind Starscream, servos over his audials. Thundercracker was next to him, reading a datapad. His audio receptors were purposely turned off.

“Heck if I know!” Starscream shrugged. “Ever since the war started, he’s always been like this. It won’t be until he’s absolutely exhausted or gets something to distract him.”

“Well, why can’t you tell him to?” Skywarp asked.

“I could, but that would mean going up to him directly and risking another trip to the medbay,” Starscream said matter-of-factly. “Knockout would have my helm if it comes to that.”

“Uuuuugggghhhh,” the purple and black Seeker groaned. “At this point, I don’t even care. If you ask me, it’s the Autobots’ fault. My left wing wouldn’t be burned and aching if it wasn’t for them.”

“Maybe we wouldn’t be hurt if it weren’t for you shooting at them before we could settle things diplomatically,” said Thundercracker, who had now chosen to turn his audials back on, catching Skywarp’s remark.

“They were in our territory,” Skywarp shot at him. “Why else could I not shoot at them?”

“Oh, my Primus. Why did I even say anything?” The blue Seeker facepalmed. Why was Skywarp so hard to get through to?

The sliding of the automatic door caught their attention. Looking away from Megatron’s temper tantrum, the Elite Trine saw two mechs enter. First was Soundwave, Laserbeak on his shoulder, and Ravage walking beside him. Behind him was a dark purple mech with surgically-fitted fusion cannon in place of his left servo and an abnormal helm with one glowing yellow optic in its center. This was Shockwave, the lead scientist of the Decepticons. Known to be an emotionless psychopath who didn’t care how he experimented on his test subjects as long as his curiosity was satiated. 

“Starscream,” Shockwave greeted in an emotionless monotone. “How fares Lord Megatron?”

“He’s still going at it,” Starscream told him, exasperation on his faceplate. “Let me guess, you and Soundwave are finally here to calm him down?”

“Please let it be true,” Skywarp whined, earning him a glare from Thundercracker.

“Laserbeak: Returned from reconnaissance mission,” said Soundwave. “Information: important.”

Given the seriousness in Soundwave’s vocoded voice, Starscream could only imagine what this information could be. Of course, this meant getting Megatron’s attention while he was still seething with rage. He looked back through the observation window and saw that the warlord had paused in his destruction of the training room, exventing heavily. He used this time to activate the intercom. Here’s hoping he has calmed down enough.

“Lord Megatron,” he said, trying his best to keep his resolve should the warlord turn his anger to him.

“What is it, Starscream?” Megatron snapped, glaring in the direction of the Seeker.

“Laserbeak has returned from the mission Soundwave sent him on,” Starscream told him. “He says it is important and requires your presence.”

Megatron’s brow ridges raised, his interest piqued. Whatever this information was, he would not let it go to waste. “Gather all of High Command in the throne room,” he said. “I wish to see these findings myself.”

A few breems later, Megatron was sitting on his throne, listening to Laserbeak’s recording of the conversation the Autobots had in the tunnel. Megatron was amused. Either the Autobots have lost their touch, or they have forgotten how imperative it is to do a perimeter check. Laserbeak had slipped under the olfactory sensors, and they didn’t know it. But the real cherry-bomb on top was the time frame for when the Ark would be leaving to go on a fool’s crusade for energon off-planet. It was perfect. It was plenty of time to stock and refuel the Nemesis so they could follow them to the best possible energon source. Looks like this war was looking up for the Decepticons.

“Excellent,” Megatron smiled widely, his fangs glinting in the dim light. “Give my regards to Laserbeak, Soundwave. Shockwave, can you deduce which planet has the largest amount of energon in Cybertronian space?”

“I’m afraid there is none, my lord,” Shockwave admitted. “Many of the colonies affected by the war don’t have the proper energon reserves. Neither do any of the uninhabited organic planets in our galaxy. The Autobots will likely use space bridges to go to other reaches of the universe to find their energon.”

“But where would they even find it?” Starscream butted in. “If there aren’t any suitable planets, it makes their search fruitless, especially for us. If you ask me, it’s a fool’s errand.” He wasn’t in the best mood right now. His trinemates weren’t allowed to come to this meeting, so it fell to him to question the insanity of this Autobot charade.

“Autobots: Likely to use the database of planets still being explored before the war,” Soundwave brought up. “Possible candidate: organic planet, four million light-cycles away.”

Starscream stiffened. He knew that planet. He went on a field trip there as a sparkling once. It didn’t end well. “Are you sure?” he asked nervously.

“Should the Autobots choose this planet, we shall follow them,” Megatron said, his processor made up. “Soundwave, Shockwave, you are dismissed. Start preparations for the Nemesis right away. As for you, Starscream, I need to speak with you.” His faceplate became stern. “Privately.”

“At once, my liege,” Shockwave nodded, bowing with Soundwave.

 Once they had left the throne room, Megatron turned to Starscream, the Seeker visibly shaking. It was expected. Given how unruly he was, Megatron would do his job to discipline him. After all, fathers were expected to do so, especially to their adopted children.

“Um, this wouldn’t happen to be about the botched hostage exchange, right?” Starscream asked, fear crawling up his spinal strut.

“Starscream, remind me why I promoted you to second-in-command,” Megatron began, stepping closer to his son.

“I think it was because you saw my potential, Lord Megatron,” the Seeker guessed. “I mean, I may be only 16 vorns old, but I do have the skill for it.”

“That is one way of putting it,” Megatron continued. “But the real reason was so I could keep an optic on you should you become overconfident in your abilities. We wouldn’t want you to get ideas and plan to usurp me. As my heir, you can only earn that position should I go offline in battle or step down as the Decepticon leader. You are lucky no one but your trine and the High Command knows you are my son, or else there will be consequences.”

“And you are telling me this because…?” Starscream gulped.

“Since you lost the hostages, I will not be so kind to give you a second chance should it happen again,” Megatron cemented. “A true Decepticon leader must be swift and diligent. Nothing goes under their radar. When the time comes for you to take the mantle, I expect you to spread our cause throughout Cybertron. Peace through tyranny, remember?”

“Y-yes, Lord Megatron,” Starscream stuttered. At least on the outside. On the inside, he was seething. How dare his own father belittle him and tell him he’ll only be worthy of the title of Decepticon leader if he lives up to impossible expectations? He was more than just an heir. He was Starscream! If anyone deserved the title more than Megatron, it was him.

“Good,” Megatron nodded. As long as Starscream stayed in line, things would run smoothly. But that didn’t mean he wasn’t suspicious. Seekers can be unpredictable, whether they are your child or not. Megatron had plenty of experience with that since he adopted Starscream. Should the youngling try anything, he will be ready.

“You are free to go,” he said, dismissing the Seeker. “Tell your trine to prepare all capable fliers for the upcoming pursuit. We’ll need to use every advantage we have.”

“As you command,” Starscream bowed. Once his back was turned to the warlord, his faceplate scrunched in anger. He would get his chance. And if he ever ran into Hot Rod and Bumblebee again, he would make them pay.

"-out of all the insane things! Not only did you go out without any supervision, but you also ran into your cousin and his trine and nearly got killed! Even worse, Megatron was there! If it wasn’t for your father, the worst could have happened!”

Hot Rod and Bumblebee winced as they listened to Elita-1, their mother, lecture them on their mistake. Dad had been right, she was giving them quite the lecture. They were resigned to it, though. When they got back, she was extremely worried, but glad they were okay. It didn’t spare them from getting their audials pulled as she dragged them to the habsuite they were sharing, though.

“I am happy that you two want to do your part for the Autobots, but you need to think hard about the consequences,” Elita continued, giving them a stern look. “War isn’t kind to anyone, especially sparklings and younglings. There’s a reason we don’t let you onto the battlefield until you are ready, however long that may be. We don’t want to lose you.”

“Your mother is right,” said a nearby Optimus. “We’ve had so many close calls since the war began. Today is one of them. Every life is precious, including yours.”

“Does this mean you’re done telling us off?” Hot Rod smiled sheepishly, Bumblebee following suit.

Elita gave a deep sigh. “For now,” she said. “But we need you to promise us that you won’t go out again unless you have express permission and an escort. In the meantime, your sire and I need to discuss something important with you before we give you your punishment.”

“About what?” asked Bumblebee.

“It is about… the effects of the war,” Optimus said, a forlorn look in his optics. “You both remember the energon shortage, right?”

“Yeah, it’s kinda part of why we went on that run,” Hot Rod nodded.

“We are running out faster than anticipated,” Optimus told them. “To heal the surface of his body, Primus has purposely stopped the flow of liquid energon. The mines were the first to run out, and now this. Megatron’s obsession with control has forced his hand.”

“Aw, mech,” Hot Rod groaned. “I hate when your Prime powers give you bad news.”

“Is this why we have to find it off planet?” Bumblebee said, optics wide.

“Yes,” Elita nodded. “Natural resources from other planets can be refined into synthetic energon. It’s why organic planets are so valuable. Our colonies have also been affected by the war, so we have to look elsewhere.”

“Going off of what happened today, Megatron will do whatever he can to turn the war in his favor,” Optimus continued. “Whether it be a hostage exchange or for energon.”

“You’re telling me,” Hot Rod groaned. “I hated being a hostage.”

“Agreed,” Bumblebee frowned. “I never want to go through that again.”

“Since we need to take desperate measures, we want you to promise that should you ever find yourself on the battlefield again, be cautious and be vigilant. War is not for glory. It is for survival, and most importantly, fighting for what’s right. Do you understand?”

The boys nodded. Despite only having a taste of it, they knew that war was not something to be glossed over. It was filled with horror and death. Even being held prisoner without any regard for your well-being was terrifying, as they learned today.

“Thank you, boys,” Elita smiled, proud of her sons for understanding the seriousness of the war. Then she turned back to parenting mode. “Now, it’s time we get to your punishment.”

The boys tensed up. Here it comes.

“Actually, Elita…,” Optimus said, bringing her attention to him. “I think I have the perfect one in mind. How about teaching them responsibility by letting them continue their energon runs, but this time, as real scouts?”

“Wait, what?” the boys said simultaneously. Was this really gonna be their punishment?

“Orion, what are you talking about?” Elita asked, skeptical.

“Think about it,” her conjunx continued. “By letting them join me on the Ark, I can not only keep an optic on them, but also give them the chance to participate in the energon search with less of a chance to run into danger unless it comes to it.”

“But, Optimus, they’ll be off planet with you for who knows how long,” Elita tried to reason. “Shouldn’t they have a chance to enjoy the rest of their adolescence on Cybertron?”

“Elita, Cybertron is dying,” Optimus reminded her. “They’ve been exposed to too much already. I don’t wish for them to spend whatever time they have left on a war-torn planet.”

Elita sighed. Her conjunx had a point. Hot Rod and Bumblebee didn’t deserve any of this. They were so young when the war started. They had lost so much. If this was their chance to still be her little bitlets, then so be it.

“Okay,” she relented. “Let that be their punishment. Who knows? They might grow like they always should.”

“We’re gonna be energon scouts?” Bumblebee said slowly, a smile appearing.

“We’re moving up, Bee.” Hot Rod starts to smile as well. He grabs his brother’s shoulders and turns the yellow bot towards him, laughing excitedly. “WE’RE MOVING UP!!!”

The boys begin to chat enthusiastically. This was an amazing opportunity for them. How could they not be happy about this? Elita chuckles in amusement before reminding them that it was still part of an act of discipline. They shouldn’t take this lightly. Optimus watched as they conversed, happy that his sons were up for the task. They had held their own with Seekers, so maybe this wouldn’t be for naught.

The Prime looked out the window of the habsuite, the Ark yet again in his sights. If all went well, the war would end, and Cybertron would heal. Optimus knew deep down in his spark that it would all be okay. Meanwhile, in the Decepticon stronghold, a certain warlord had other ideas. Megatron looked over the horizon through the windows of his throne room. The Nemesis could be seen outside being prepared for its long voyage to follow the Ark. Should it all go according to plan, the Autobots will fall, and Cybertron will be his for the taking. That was a promise he made with all his spark. Both leaders, their opposite views clashing evermore, were determined to achieve their goals. May Primus be with them all.

Across the universe, on a planet millions of light-years away, music could be heard in a room filled with posters of music artists, movies, and TV shows. Michael Jackson’s song, P.Y.T.(Pretty Young Thing), played on a boombox placed on a dirty desk filled with various comic books. One comic on top looked fairly new. It featured a red and blue robot locked in a battle stance on the cover. A petite hand picked it up, its owner flipping it open.

A young teenage girl with dirty blonde hair cascading down her back looked through the comic, reading the panels intently. She had bought this comic at the local drugstore. It looked interesting, so she felt compelled to pick it up and peruse its pages. She had already read it once, but the story was so interesting, she couldn’t put it down. Robots in disguise? And they’re from a planet of metal? Could such a thing really exist?

The girl adjusted her glasses as she looked out her bedroom window, up to the stars. If alien life did exist, would it be welcoming? Hopefully, it wouldn’t be anything like those dumb sci-fi movies with the confusing plots. She preferred Star Wars and Star Trek over those.

She sighed, going back to the comic. She looked at one particular panel that featured the red and blue robot on the cover. His dialogue was inspiring. From what she could tell, he was a good leader. Reminded her of her late mom in a way. If there were a leader like Optimus Prime in real life, she’d take his actions to heart. As far as Carla Witwicky knew, it was surely more than meets the eye.

Chapter Text

The universe is a vast place. From what is observable, there are many galaxies with billions of stars and thousands of planets to behold. It held so many possibilities to explore. For example, was there other life out there? For the citizens of the planet Cybertron, this was true. They had been a space-faring race for some time now. Longer than anything else in the known universe. They have the colonies on other planets and alliances with various alien races to prove it. They had not made contact with the latter for a long time, however. War didn’t make it possible for them.

In the city of Iacon, the last preparations for a space voyage were underway. The Autobots, a faction fighting for freedom and equality, were out and about, making sure the ship was in tiptop shape. The Ark, as it was called, towered over the launch pad. Its fiery orange paint job, complete with the red Autobot insignia, gleamed in the light of the twin moons. Mecha went to and fro from station to station, some pulling supplies in with their alt modes. It was nearly time for launch, and the crew was getting ready.

Prowl, the Autobot’s second-in-command, stood alongside his leader, Optimus Prime, as they went through the list of crew members. Nearby at a console was Ultra Magnus, a stern red, white, and blue mech with amazing stature. 

“We have a good number of cadets joining this expedition,” Prowl said, analyzing every file. “Blaster for communications, Sideswipe and Sunstreaker to act as frontliners, your sons as energon scouts, and surprisingly, Arcee is the only femme to have signed up. Wonder why that is.”

“A lot of femmes preferred to stay and fight with my conjunx,” Optimus told him, not surprised Elita-1 had a following. “My guess is Arcee wanted to prove that she can do her part in a mech-dominated environment and get away from the more uptight femmes her age.”

“To think that she’s from a former high-class family unit and is so unlike her peers at the same time.” Prowl reset his voice box. “Anyway, that should be everyone. Unless anyone has some grievances, we’re good to go.”

“I believe I have some,” Ultra Magnus volunteered.

“Oh, what is it, Magnus?” Optimus asked curiously.

“It’s the fact that you are allowing Hot Rod and Bumblebee on this,” Ultra Magnus said, turning to the Prime. “I know it’s to make up for their recent escapade, but did you not consider the possible ramifications of such a decision. First of all, Hot Rod is a known troublemaker. He never thinks about his actions until the last nano-klick. As for Bumblebee, he is by far the youngest cadet we’ve ever had. If he had waited another vorn to start his training, it wouldn’t be so worrisome.”

“I see where you’re coming from, Ultra Magnus, but I give you my word that this voyage will be a safe learning experience for them,” Optimus cemented. “And yes, they are young and they are reckless. But it doesn’t mean they will be actively fighting for the majority of the voyage. Should it happen, let me remind you, they were trained in self-defense.”

“Knowing self-defense is one thing, being aware is another,” Ultra Magnus rebutted. “If they don’t learn to take caution, they will end up as playthings for the Decepticons.”

“And as their sire, I take full responsibility for them should something go out of our control,” Optimus cemented sternly. “As for the Decepticons, we took extreme measures to keep today’s launch as secret from them. Once they notice we’re gone, we’ll already be halfway across the universe.”

Ultra Magnus sighed and pinched his nasal ridge. Optimus had a way with words, and now that he said it, his leader had a point. Hot Rod and Bumblebee would be fine. It didn’t settle his worries, however. Thank Primus, they weren’t adults yet, or he would be disciplining them as the Duly Appointed Enforcer of the Tyrest Accord should.

“You’re right,” he said. “They are your responsibility. If you wish them to go, then so be it.”

“I’m glad you understand, old friend,” Optimus smiled under his mask. “Now, Prowl and I must be off. The Ark can’t launch until all crew members are on board, including me.”

“Do what you must,” Ultra Magnus nodded. “I’m sure your conjunx will be eager to see you off.”

“Oh, she is,” Optimus chuckled mischievously. “She made it pretty apparent last lunar cycle.” 

Prowl and Magnus gaped at the mention of this. Did the Prime just--? Oh, he did.

“Prime, as happy as I am for your bond with Elita, never imply about your berth-room habits in front of me, Magnus, or anyone else in that manner,” Prowl reprimanded his superior. “It is very unprofessional.”

Optimus broke into a giggle. “Okay, I’m sorry,” he said between them. The look on Ultra’s face was priceless!

Across the launch pad, several family units were saying goodbye to the relatives leaving on the Ark.. After parting ways with Prowl and Ultra Magnus, Optimus made his way to his family, observing the tender moments between these bots. Who knew when they would see each other again? After all, so many Autobots stayed behind to help with the war effort on Cybertron, and they depended on his small crew to gather the resources they needed. If the Prime was being honest, he was going to miss Cybertron. After fighting alongside and even losing so many mecha, especially a number of those he calls or has called friends, Optimus did not doubt it.

War was never kind. It always left scars, no matter what it did. Many of Optimus’ predecessors, the Primes of the past, had been through something like it. Even the Thirteen Primes, the first creations of Primus, had experienced it in several different forms. And even with all the experience and wisdom he gained from them, Optimus knew a hard truth. Sometimes, you never know when it will start. You will never know who is lost until it is too late. In response to all this loss, Optimus made a solemn promise. He would protect those he could. He knew he couldn’t save everyone. Still, he would make sure to save as many as he could. Including his family.

Elita could be seen fretting over their sons, Hot Rod and Bumblebee. Like all mothers, she was making sure they were okay and seeing to whatever they needed in her own special way. Even if it annoyed her sons.

“Mom, will you please stop?” said an impatient Hot Rod. He wanted to board the Ark already so he and Bumblebee could start their jobs as energon scouts.

“I will stop when I stop, Hot Rod,” Elita said sternly, checking both boys’ faceplates for any leftover grime she missed as she cleaned them up. “This mission is important, so you and Bumblebee need to be prepared to the fullest. And yes, that means checking over your hygiene.”

“But Ratchet already gave us check-ups,” Bumblebee protested, trying to push away her servo, which held a cleaning cloth.

“And we all thank him for that,” Elita continued, thwarting his attempts and rubbing the cloth on his cheek. “But it’s my job as your carrier to make sure you are happy and healthy enough. Not just physically, but also emotionally. There’s only so much time left to spend with you before you join your sire on this mission.”

“We know, Mom,” Hot Rod sighed. “But it’s a little embarrassing.”

“Then let yourselves be embarrassed,” Elita told him, cupping his cheek. “I know you don’t want to show it, but I know for a fact that you’re going to miss me. Just like your father.”

“Yeah, you two were pretty loud last lunar cycle,” Bumblebee brought up, shuddering at the memory of overhearing his parents having private time. He was then given a motherly glare.

“Watch what you say, Bumblebee,” Elita reprimanded. “I’m sorry if we were, but we’re in public. Even if implied, don’t go around sharing what Optimus and I do behind closed doors. On accident or purpose.”

“Sorry,” the yellow bot blushed. Hot Rod couldn’t help but agree with their mom. He’ll take being embarrassed by loving parents over talking about their private life, despite having the unfortunate experience of accidentally hearing them last lunar cycle. He internally shuddered. Primus saves his poor teenage audio receptors.

“Your mother is right,” Optimus said, having overheard the conversation. “We wouldn’t want mecha getting the wrong idea. It would be, as Prowl told me earlier, very unprofessional.”

“Not you too,” Elita groaned.

“I did it in jest,” Optimus chuckled before changing the topic. “So, are the boys ready?”

“Yes, but I think Mom wanted to spend more time with us before we have to go,” said Hot Rod.

“She was trying to clean our faces,” Bumblebee put in.

“Well, at least you two are clean now,” Elita nodded to them. “And yes, I guess I was trying to prolong the time we left together. I… I just can’t believe it is already happening.”

“I know how you feel, Elita,” Optimus said softly, bringing her close to him. “But, rest assured, we will do what we can to return as soon as possible. You have my word.”

Elita leaned into his touch. “You’ve said that so much these past two decacycles. How are you sure you will return that soon?”

“As long as the space bridges are operational and in Autobot control, we should be back in a few deca-cycles at most,” Optimus considered.

“Plus, the Decepticons have no idea what we’re doing,” Hot Rod decided to add. “They will be so surprised when we get more energon than they.”

“Yeah, they’ll never see it coming,” Bumblebee reiterated, nodding excitedly.

Elita laughed in amusement at her sons’ confidence. “They definitely won’t,” she said between them. She gazed lovingly at them all. “Please, promise me you will be safe.”

“With all my spark, Ariel,” Optimus said, his mask going back, revealing his scarred faceplate. A jagged line going up and down through his derma. He closed the gap between them with a tender kiss. She returned it, savoring the passion it gave. It would be their last one for a long while. At least they could make this one count.

After they parted, Jazz’s voice was heard across the launch pad.

“Prime! It’s time to board! Time for you and your boys to tell your lady farewell!”

“Guess it’s time,” Hot Rod said when he heard it.

“We’ll miss you, Mom,” said Bumblebee.

“I’ll miss you too,” Elita smiled. “I love you all.”

“We love you, too,” said Hot Rod. He and Bumblebee hugged her, Optimus doing so as well. It was a cherished family hug, one that would be their last until Primus knew when.

At the same time as the Ark’s launch preparation, the Decepticon base in Kaon was also under preparations to launch their main command, the Nemesis. It was only a matter of time before the Autobots would begin their foolish crusade to locate more resources. Resources that would come in handy for the Decepticon cause. Since the bulk of their soldiers were elsewhere, mindless drones known as Vehicons did most of the heavy work. They had no sparks. They were programmed to do nothing but obey. But Megatron was satisfied with it. As long as the work was done to his liking, he would pay no mind to their presence unless he needed to.

Up in the warlord’s throne room, Shockwave, the Head Scientist, was going over the plans for their pursuit. 

“Once you have intercepted the Ark, it is logical you board the ship and commandeer it, cutting off the Autobots long enough to ensure you will have access to all the resources of the planet they plan to travel to,” he explained. “Resistance will be futile for them. The only logical options for them are to surrender or immediately go offline.”

“I see,” Megatron nodded. “But I wouldn’t underestimate them, Shockwave. Optimus will fight back. Even with an entire squadron of Vehicons, the Autobots will not go down without one.”

“Most logical, my Lord,” Shockwave agreed, having already known of that factor, but wanted to see if Megatron was aware.

“Has Laserbeak returned from scouting?” Megatron turned to his Third-in-Command, and most trusted, loyal soldier, Soundwave.

“Affirmative,” Soundwave answered. “Last deca-cycle of spying on Autobots: successful.”

He brought the cassette bird out, the loyal cyber-vulture landing on his shoulder. Through a holographic projector from his optics, Laserbeak showed a holo-capture of a recent meeting the Autobot High Command had. One that featured a very interesting planet. The planet that the Decepticons had theorized the Autobots would go after. An organic planet, light-cycles away from Cybertron.

Megatron smiled darkly as he took in the image. This planet, while organic and primitive, was filled to the brim with resources. The Autobots had done their research, looking into possible planets for resources. The Decepticons were more than happy to take it for themselves, especially when it was rumored to be rich in energon.

“Good work, Laserbeak,” Megatron praised the cassette. “Once the Autobots have been dealt with, this planet will be ours for the taking.”

“That is if this planet is worth it in the first place,” said the shrill voice of Starscream, Megatron’s adopted son and Second-in-Command. He was having doubts about this endeavor he called a foolish crusade.

“Using it for resources is one thing, but we could be using their eventual absence to our advantage. While they are gone, we could be storming Iacon. The Autobots would be in shambles without their leader for guidance, so it’ll be easy to take them off guard.”

“That is illogical, Starscream,” said Shockwave. “Cybertron is already lacking in resources. With the flow of energon depleting, there is not enough to push a full-scale assault on the Autobot capital.”

“Well, if I were leading the Decepticons, we would have already taken it!” Starscream shot back. “We have more supplies than the Autobots. How are we going to win this war if we don’t act accordingly?!”

“Starscream!!!!!!” Megatron yelled at the Seeker. “Shut your intake or I’ll do it for you! An invasion will come, but it will do you good to have some blasted patience.”

“You know I’m right!” Starscream yelled back at him. “The time we spend following the Ark is a waste. There are other planets with more than enough resources. If you weren’t so obsessed with Optimus Prime, we wouldn’t be here arguing about it! Which is another reason I should be leading-“

“The day you lead will be the day you realize your stupidity!” the warlord snapped, his fusion cannon starting to warm up. “You will never lead the Decepticons. Not until you learn what it truly takes. Your chance will not come if you don’t listen to reason, especially when it comes from me.”

Starscream bristled angrily at those words. He hated it when the warlord would put him down. So what if he speaks his mind? As far as he could tell, reasoning was something Megatron did not have a good relationship with. Despite his feelings on the matter, though, he shut up. Provoking the warlord any further was out of the question.

Seeing that Starscream obeyed, Megatron turned back to Shockwave. 

“Shockwave, I will entrust Cybertron to you in my absence,” he told the scientist. “Make sure nothing happens to the Decepticon empire until I return.”

“It shall be done, my liege,” Shockwave accepted. “I will be sure that your troops on Cybertron follow the logic that best suits our cause.”

“I am counting on it,” Megatron nodded to him. He got up from his throne, turning to the window that displayed the Nemsis in all its awesome size. It was only a matter of time.

“Starscream, Soundwave, prepare the troops for boarding. Once the Ark has launched, we will not be far behind.”

Bumblebee’s optics were wide as he looked out the windows of the command center. He knew the Ark was huge, but now that he was inside it, the mecha below looked like cyber-ants. When his dad ordered everyone up here after boarding, he had no idea he’d be able to see this. Who knew what it would be like once they were in space?

“Enjoying the view?” 

Bumblebee turned around to see Sunstreaker talking to him. “Yeah, it’s unbelievable,” he told the yellow speedster.

“I know how you feel,” Sunstreaker said. “This ship is so huge, you can get lost in it. Sideswipe and I are planning on exploring the whole place after we blast off.”

“Do you think Hot Rod will be eager to do it with me?” Bumblebee asked, hoping to spend time with his older brother soon.

“Oh, I bet he will,” Sunstreaker smirked, knowing full well that turbo-revving punk wouldn’t leave his brother in the dust. Just like him and his split-spark twin. Speaking of whom, Sideswipe was calling for him.

“Hey, Sunny!” he shouted from the other side of the command center. “You have to check out the communications console. Blaster won’t admit it, but there’s a sound effect library! And you’ll never guess the best part.”

“That ‘best part’ is the very reason I don’t want you looking at it!” said the aforementioned Blaster, a red mech with a yellow chassis. He also had speakers on his lower legs, indicating he was similar to a certain Decepticon. Only he was someone who didn’t like being compared to the guy.

“Oh, come, Blaster,” Sideswipe brushed him off. “It’s harmless and super fun.”

“And embarrassing,” Blaster said through gritted dentae, obviously annoyed.

“Wait, what’s this about again?” asked a nearby Arcee. A certain magenta speedster behind her was also interested.

“Prepare to be amazed,” the red mech smiled widely, his pointer digit nearing the button.

“Wait, don’t--!” But it was too late. Once Sideswipe pressed the button, the sound of what Cybertronians called backfiring was heard throughout the entire room. It was loud and long enough to catch the attention of every crew member here. When it finally ended, there was silence for a few moments. And then it was broken by Hot Rod as he let out a huge laugh. The rest of the cadets, sans Arcee and Blaster, joined in. Even a few senior officers like Ironhide, Jazz, and Head Engineer Wheeljack could be heard.

“Oh, my Primus, Sideswipe,” Arcee cringed while Blaster let out a groan, burying his faceplate in his servos. “That was so immature. Who even included that on the console?”

“Guilty as charged,” Wheeljack admitted with glee. “I thought you kids would get a kick out of it.”

“Well, not all of us did,” the pink femme pointed out, her disgust very apparent.

“Well, not everyone is part of the intended audience,” Wheeljack shrugged. “Still, it was pretty funny.”

“Funny or not, that was very unprofessional, Wheeljack,” Prowl reprimanded from his spot below the captain’s chair, where Optimus was sitting. “We have no time for distractions, especially for ones caused by recordings of rude noises.”

“Aw, lay off of him, Prowler,” Jazz chimed in. “There’s no harm in having a little fun every once in a while.”

“I agree with Jazz, Prowl,” said Optimus. “If you ask me, moments like this one help with morale.”

“In other words, let loose for once in your boring life,” added Hot Rod, still snickering.

Prowl rolled his optics. He couldn’t argue with his commanding officer. He couldn’t control what the younglings thought of as humor either. Still, it would be courteous to have a warning next time.

“Now that we’ve had our fill of laughter, let’s start the launch,” Optimus said next, determination in his optics. “Everyone, to your stations.”

The Autobots got to work at their leader’s orders. Blaster, after shoving Sideswipe away from the console, contacted the launch control. “Autobot Ark to launch control, do you copy?”

“We hear you loud and clear, Ark,” came the voice of Ultra Magnus, who was manning the communications console at launch control. Elita-1 and Kup were at his side, ready to take initiative should it come to it.

“Has the launch pad been cleared for our ascent?” Blaster asked on the radio.

“Affirmative,” Ultra Magnus confirmed. “The dome of Iacon has been lowered as well. You are clear for launch.”

Upon hearing this, Blaster gave the high command a thumbs up, confirming to them that everything was ready. “All systems go, Prime,” Jazz passed on to Optimus.

“Ignition,” Optimus said, pressing the button that activated the Ark’s rockets. They immediately started, giving enough force for the ship to ascend into Cybertron’s atmosphere.  The cadets watched through the windows, Iacon growing smaller and smaller as they went higher and higher. Hot Rod and Bumblebee looked at each other as it dawned on them that this was really happening. They were going to space and wouldn’t be back for Primus knows how long. And yet, it was also the start of a new adventure. One that they were glad to take part in.

Back on the surface, Ultra Magnus, Kup, and Elita watched as the Ark became nothing more than a speck in the upper atmosphere. The Ark was off-world, but it didn’t mean the fight on Cybertron was over. Should the Decepticons make another move, they would be ready.

“There they go,” Kup said softly, turning to his comrades. “Hopefully, they find what they’re looking for.”

“Yes, I hope,” Elita said, sadness in her voice. Her conjunx and boys were off on a mission. She prayed deep down in her spark they would be okay. The memory of their last hug together, her last kiss with Optimus, will keep her going. She just hoped it would do so for them as well.

Meanwhile, in Kaon, the Nemesis was set to launch. Megatron was seated on another throne in the control room. His soldiers were at their stations, preparing for the journey at hand. Through the command center’s windows, the Ark could be seen lifting off in the distance. The time has come to make their move. In just a few groons, the Autobots would be at their mercy. Not that they would be giving it.

“Systems: operational,” said the vocoded voice of Soundwave, sitting at a console. “Nemesis: ready for launch.”

Megatron nodded, a smirk growing on his faceplate. “My fellow Decepticons, the time has come,” he addressed his troops. “Blast off!”

At the behest of their leader, many Vehicons diverted the power to the engines, leaving it to Starscream to press the ignition button. The warship lifted into the air, it too on its way to the far reaches of space. Starscream looked back at the warlord as they climbed higher. He still thought it was a foolish endeavor, but he had to give Megatron some credit. Despite his obsession with Optimus Prime, he was an experienced leader. But if there was something that resulted in his downfall, whether it be by the Autobots, his own ambitions, or maybe, an “accident”, there was the likely chance the Decepticons would need a new leader. A position he was eager to fill, should it come to it. He just needed to bide his time until then.

As for Megatron, this was it. A chance to finally deal with Prime and the Autobots once and for all. Once they raided their ship and dealt with the crew, the planet the Autobots were planning on going to would be ripe for the taking. All the resources and energon they could imagine, all in Decepticon hands. But it was only possible if he managed to deal with Prime. As much as he hated to admit it, neither of them would be going down without a fight. Still, he had to win. No matter how much self-righteous preaching the Prime spoke to him. The war would be won by him and him alone. That was a promise Megatron intended to keep.

“This is so cool!”

The Ark was now traveling through the galaxy to the nearest space bridge. Hot Rod was looking through the window, marveling at how small Cybertron looked off in the distance. He had never been to space before. The same went for his brother and the other cadets. He was calling it now. This mission is gonna be the most amazing part of his entire functioning.

“Cybertron looks so tiny this far away,” Bumblebee added, joining his brother. “Is space really this big?”

“No one really knows,” says Perceptor, the Autobot Head Scientist. The microscope attachment on his shoulder moved in on them slightly, as if observing their awe. “As far as our current studies go, we have only seen as far as what can be observed through our telescopes. It is thanks to the space bridges created by the Thirteen Primes that we can visit other galaxies and see what is out there.”

Like the one with the planet we’re going to?” asked Bumblebee.

“Why, yes,” Preceptor nodded. “This one is estimated to be about four million light-cycles away from ours. The planet that dwells there happens to be an organic one with plenty of resources, including possible energon.”

“And we’ll only get there through the dang space bridge that for some reason is not showing up on the radar!”

Ironhide was banging on the console that contained the radar. For some reason, it was on the fritz. 

“Ironhide, stop hitting the controls,” Optimus shouted from his station. “Just allow Wheeljack to fix it.”

“What do you think I’ve been trying to do?!” Wheeljack yelled from inside the console, working with the machinery. “Ah, here we are. A wire had gotten loose. Must’ve shifted during the launch.”

Once he got it reconnected, the radar started working again. The Ark’s AI, Teletraan-1, brought up a holo of their current position in response. From the looks of it, the space bridge was only a few klicks away. 

Space bridges were an ancient technology dating back to the Thirteen Primes, the first Cybertronians created by Primus. Demi-gods with amazing abilities representing various concepts of life. They used the space bridges to provide easier access to the many worlds they explored, even passing them on to future generations to continue the endeavor. They had also had their fair share of misuse when someone decided to use them for conquests rather than the Primes’ original intention. 

Many space bridges were shut down to prevent the war from spreading to areas that shouldn’t be involved. But the one nearest to Cybertron would be turned on once again to provide passage for the Autobots’ mission. To a planet untouched by war, but would also bring hope. Hope to win this war.

The space bridge came into view, its circular form being of an untold majesty. With a swift nod from Optimus, Teletraan was prompted to beam the coordinates to the massive gateway. The space bridge turned on, a swirling vortex appearing in the middle of it. It was intense, bright. And it would lead them to their destination. However, as the Ark made its way through the bridge, another ship followed behind them.

The Nemesis had kept itself discreet since it launched, but now it was time for the Decepticons to make their move. Megatron couldn’t help but smile to himself as he watched the space bridge open. It was a sight to behold. As much as he hated Optimus, the warlord had to hand it to the Autobot leaders’ predecessors. The Thirteen had been ahead of their time during the era when they explored the universe together.

“Ark: has entered space bridge,” Soundwave confirmed. “Permission to commence pursuit?”

“Permission granted,” Megatron nodded. “Once we have reached the Ark, there will be no mercy.”

“Acknowledged,” Soundwave responded. “Commencing operation.”

“About time,” Starscream said in a bored tone. The sooner they got this over with, the sooner he could put Megatron in his place.

The Nemesis started its pursuit, entering the space bridge. Once both ships made it to the other side, it was evident that they weren’t in their galaxy anymore. The space bridge on the other side was placed next to a massive gas giant with a swirling red storm on its side. Only a breem had passed when the Autobots were already near the asteroid belt in the middle of the solar system when Teletraan started to blare out an alarm.

“What the slag? We haven’t even entered the field yet,” Wheeljack said in confusion. “Why is the alarm blaring now?”

“Teletraan-1, give us a visual,” Prowl ordrerd the AI.

“Decepticon command ship, Nemesis, has been detected five mega-klicks behind the Ark,” Teletraan said through the ship's speakers, bringing up the visual of the enemy ship. “Shall I bring up the shields?”

“WHAT?????” the cadets shouted in shock.

“But I thought the mission information wasn’t leaked,” said Blaster, wondering how this happened.

“They were gonna find out eventually,” said Jazz. “I didn’t think it would be this soon.”

“Then how did the ‘Cons find out?” asked Sideswipe. “It’s not like any of their spies had the nerve circuits to break into the base back on Cybertron.”

“One of Soundwave’s cassettes definitely has them,” Sunstreaker deduced. “I heard that they’re small enough to avoid detection. Maybe one of them caught onto it when nobody was looking.”

Hot Rod and Bumblebee’s optics widened upon hearing that. If the Decepticons had the time to prepare to follow them, then that meant they got the information sometime before the Ark launched. They looked at each other, both of them coming to the same conclusion.

“Our energon run!” they exclaimed in unison. Soundwave had been there. Looking back, it was likely the Decepticons TIC had sent out Laserbeak to follow them while they escaped. There was no doubt the cyber-vulture listened in when they talked about when the Ark was leaving, and brought it back to Megatron.

“Dear Primus,” Optimus said in worry, knowing that his boys were right. Immediately, he took matters into his own servos. Even with the Decepticons on their tail, he wasn’t taking any chances. “Autobots! Man your battle stations! Teletraan, bring up the shields and take us through the asteroid belt. We will not let the Decepticons have their way!”

“But, Prime,” said Ironhide. “Going through the belt would mean suicide. Even with the Decepticons close behind us, we won’t make it through that easily.”

“Then we’ll use the laser,” Optimus insisted. “Now go, go!”

The command center went into action. As they got close to the belt, Prowl ordered Teletraan to activate the mega-laser at the front of the ship. It immediately shot through, clearing enough of the asteroids so the Ark could pass through as it went. It was also big enough for the Nemesis, which was now shooting the Autobot ship. One of the blasts hit close enough that the ship rattled, toppling over several mecha. Arcee, who had taken the opportunity to man a battle station, fell out of her seat. She got back up with a huff, frustration building in her frame.

“They certainly aren’t making this easy,” she said, taking back control of the blasters.

“We just have to hold out as long as we can,” said Prowl before turning his attention to Optimus. “Sir, if you have any ideas on how to shake them, now is the time.”

Optimus looked back at the visual from Teletraan. The Decepticons were gaining on them. It wouldn’t be long until they reached them and possibly boarded the Ark. Even when they had just exited the asteroid belt, they were still gaining. Jazz was barking orders to speed up, and they did, but it wasn’t enough. Passing by a red planet with two moons, Optimus made his decision.

“We let them come,” he said. Shocked gasps were heard throughout the command center. He couldn’t be serious. Optimus had made a few risky decisions throughout the war, but this was borderline insane!

“I take back what I said about the asteroids,” Ironhide groaned. “This is real suicide!”

“Optimus, are you sure about this?” Jazz questioned, confusion in his voice. 

“Yes, I am sure,” Optimus cemented. “The Decepticons will get to us either way. So, if this ship goes down, we go down fighting! Do I make myself clear?”

Despite their protests, the Autobots were loyal to their leader no matter the circumstances. If he said they should engage the enemy, they would. In response to these recent orders, Prowl had only one thing to say. “Crystal.”

As they prepared to be boarded, Hot Rod and Bumblebee couldn’t help but marvel at their father. He had proven yet again why he was a Prime. That aura of leadership, that willingness to protect his fellow Autobots, he held with pride. So, if the Decepticons were coming, they would fight the good fight, just like him.

“Uh, what are you doing?” Sunstreaker asked as the brothers got out their weapons.

“Preparing for the Decepticons, duh,” Hot Rod said nonchalantly. 

“What else would we be doing?” said Bumblbee.

“But, they-” the gold mech started saying.

“-are going to come in blasters blazing,” Sideswipe cut him off. “C’mon, bro. You don’t wanna die, do you?”

“Well, yes, but we’re just cadets. Besides Hot Rod and Bumblebee, we haven’t seen war.”

“All the more reason we fight now!” shouted Arcee from her station. “It’s time we show those Decepticreeps what we’re made of!”

“You heard the femme!” Blaster urged from his. “Get your afts in gear and grab a weapon already!” 

That got Sunstreaker going. The target planet was now coming into view. If it weren’t for the chaos, the Autobots would have noticed that it was a beautiful blue and green with white polar ice caps. Its single moon hung above it, the star of this solar system casting its light against it. A planet like this meant that there were more than enough resources to sustain both factions. It was a matter of who got to them first that became part of the current conflict.

On the Nemesis, the Decepticons had gotten close enough to the Ark to board it. Megatron’s smile had grown significantly as they got closer to their goal. This was it. Soon, the Ark and this planet would be theirs!

“Soundwave, activate the connector bridge,” he ordered.

“Connecter: activated,” Soundwave confirmed once the bridge started moving towards the Ark.. It hit the Autobot ship with a bang, securing itself just near the command center. The Autobots noticed this, tension running through their frames. No beating around the metallo-bush. This was happening now.

“Autobots, prepare for battle!” Optimus announced, powering on his signature weapon, the ion cannon.

After what felt like an eternity of intense waiting, the Decepticons burst into the command center. Vehicons and active Decepticons soldiers came in with blasters in hand, intent on destroying any Autobot in their path. All capable Autobots defended themselves, attacking only when necessary. The Vehicons were easier to take down since they were sparkless. The Decepticons who sentient and aware, however, they were a struggle. Skywarp and Thundercracker of the Elite Trine even found their way to the cadets.

“I’m going to enjoy this,” Skywarp cheered with sick intent. He lunged at the twins, toppling Sunstreaker onto the floor, clawed digits ready to sink into his neck cables.

“Hey, watch the paint job!” Sunstreaker complained, pushing the Seeker off of him with a right hook punch.

“Ha, you’ve got the wrong idea if you think you can mess my bro,” Sideswipe smirked.

“Wanna bet?” said Thundercracker, knocking into the overconfident bot.

“Sideswipe, focus!” Arcee urged, shooting a Vehicon with her blaster before turning to the communications bot with a similar name. “Blaster, how are you doing?”

“How do you think I’m doing?!” Blaster answered in panic as he was placed in the middle of an altercation with Soundwave.

“Autobot: Will give up communication console,” the Decepticon TIC demanded.

“As if I’d let you commandeer it!” Blaster refused. Only for Ravage to jump on him. “AGGGHHH!!! Nice kitty!”

Meanwhile, Hot and Bumblebee were locked in combat with Starscream. Given the outrage in the Seeker’s optics, it was clear he was not forgiving them for the incident in the energon warehouse. Since they had learned from the experience, the brothers were intent on this being a fairer fight. Now, if only Starscream would stop being so darn predictable.

“Geez, Starscream, would it kill you to chill out?” Bumblebee asked riskily.

“NO! I will not chill out!” Starscream screeched. “It’s time I give you what you rightfully deserve!”

“It’s too bad your moves right now are easy to predict,” Hot Rod pointed out. “You must be really mad at us if you’re doing this badly right now.”

“SHUT UP!!!!”

As the Seeker kept going at it with them, another personal fight was about to begin. Optimus was holding his own against the Vehicons and a few Decepticons that decided to get close. His ion cannon blasted through the chests of many Vehicons, leaving them motionless on the floor. A thud came from behind, catching his attention. Turning around, he saw that it was Megatron. The warlord was giving him a look of satisfaction. It was enough for the innermost energon flowing in Optimus’ fuel cables to run cold. But he stood his ground. If Megatron was coming for a fight, he would give him one.

“Megatron,” he said, staring him down.

“Prime,” Megatron responded with a sneer. “I see that you won’t be giving your ship to me. I will admit, however, you are easy to predict.”

“So are you, Megatron,” Optimus countered. “And yet, you’ve caught me by surprise. Just know, it will take more than attacking my ship to bring me and my Autobots down.”

“An unlikely outcome if you ask me,” Megatron sneered before lunging at the Prime. “NOW MEET YOUR FATE!”

Metallic fists collided with their opponents, both leaders determined to take the other down. One for destruction, one for freedom. Unbeknownst to them, their fight would only bring something unexpected to both factions. As Megatron continued to punch Optimus, the Prime was thrown back into a control panel. The steering mechanism, to be precise. The sudden movement that came from it shifted the Ark with the Nemesis still connected to it closer to the planet below. The fighting occupants all felt it, pausing in their altercation to further observe what was going on. The alarms blared as the pull of the planet’s orbit became stronger. Teletraan came up with another visual, showing the trajectory they were headed in.

“Warning: planet’s gravitational pull has sent the Ark into reentry,” it announced. “Impact imminent in four klicks.”

“What have you done?” Megatron demanded after he heard this.

Optimus didn’t answer. He just helmbutted Megatron away from him, getting and steadying himself near the controls so he could address his Autobots.

“Autobots, prepare for crash landing!” he shouted to them. 

The planet's surface got closer. Nemesis broke off, headed in a different direction. To ensure everyone was safe, Optimus took the controls and tried his best to straighten out the ship. It turned out to be harder than he thought as the planet’s gravity became greater. Seeing their father’s trouble, Hot Rod and Bumblebee ran over to help him, ignoring Starscream’s demand to take him on again. They grabbed the steering controls on both sides and pulled with Optimus to straighten the Ark.. It worked, but it wasn’t over yet. A mountain was in their way, and without warning, they crashed right into it. Alarms blared as everyone was knocked off their feet, falling down and against the floor and various consoles. The Vehicons ceased to work, falling as well. 

The crash was devastating. So many were injured. Autobots and Decepticons. Teletraan was still active. Based on its findings, there was not much it could do at that moment. So, it decided to use a failsafe. In the case that the Ark’s passengers were out of commission, it would induce status until further notice. How long that would be was undetermined.

A foggy mist was sprayed throughout the Ark, and both factions quickly succumbed to it. When it reached Optimus and his boys, Bumblebee was the first to fall into stasis. Hot Rod saw it, wondering what was happening. He watched as Optimus’ helm sagged as he sluggishly fell into the captain’s chair, the reality slowly coming to him. The last person the young mech saw fall into stasis was Megatron. The warlord looked like he wanted to resist, but couldn’t. After the warlord collapsed, stasis came to Hot Rod, his systems telling him that it had started. Darkness came, the eldest son of a Prime falling into what felt like a dreamless recharge. How long it would be until he woke up was unknown.

Four million years later….

Earth date - June 1984

The alarm blared, announcing that it was 8 a.m., and yet the occupant of the bed nearby didn’t seem to want to get up today. A hand came out from under the covers and smacked the clock to turn it off. The owner of the hand curled up back under the sheets, content with just going back to sleep. Only it didn’t last long.

“Carla! It’s time to get up! You’ve got a big day ahead of you!”

Carla groaned. Leave it to her dad to get her moving when she wasn’t up to it. There was no point in arguing, though. Better start getting ready for the day. Pushing off the covers, she sat up to rub the sleep out of her eyes and get her dirty blonde hair out of her face. She reached over to her bedside table to grab her glasses. After putting them on, she stretched with a loud yawn. She got up to go to the bathroom, but not before gently touching a framed picture with a solemn expression.

The picture displayed Carla when she turned thirteen years old alongside a blonde woman who was smiling at the camera with her. Her mother, Martha Witwicky. An amazing woman who was no longer living on the earth, but was Carla’s biggest inspiration.

“Love you, Mom,” Carla said to the picture, wishing they could still spend time together.

Carla’s morning routine was pretty mundane, but it certainly had its moments. Her younger siblings, Reggie and Maggie, were also awake, running down the hall with their G.I. Joe and My Little Pony toys in hand. Carla didn’t play with toys very much since she was fourteen now, but did look forward to seeing what stories they came up with as they played with them. Which reminded her, commercials were playing for a new toyline lately. Turns out the comic she bought a couple of weeks ago, The Transformers, was made to promote it. Transforming robots from space, locked in an ongoing war. It was likely that the next issue would come out with a cartoon in a few months. Maybe she could get one of those toys and see what the fuss was all about.

After brushing her teeth, Carla got dressed and headed downstairs for breakfast. Her father, a mechanic named Sparkplug, was in the middle of making some bacon and eggs while Reggie and Maggie were having cereal at the kitchen table. Grabbing some bread, Carla put two pieces in the toaster to make toast. She was gonna be out in town to do some errands today, so she wanted to hurry.

“Good morning, Carla,” Sparkplug greeted her. “How’d you sleep?”

“Maybe better if I were sleeping in,” Carla answered with a bored tone. She adjusted the maroon beanie on her head, clearly not up for small talk.

“It may be summer, but it would do you some good to get up on time,” Sparkplug reminded her, taking the pan off the stove. “Have you been up late listening to Michael Jackson on your Walkman again?”

“Maybe she was reading that cool Transformers comic,” said Reggie, rolling a Cobra HISS tank across the table.

“Isn’t that the one with giant alien robots?” asked Maggie, giving her stuffed rabbit, Mr. Bun, a hug.

  “Robots that can turn into cars and planes,” Sparkplug chuckled, setting his breakfast down on the table. “As a mechanic, I’m interested in seeing how that works.”

         “They have a toyline for it, Dad,” Carla informed him, spreading some jam on her toast. “The commercials for it have been going on for a while now. The action figures basically convert to and from robot and vehicle mode in a variety of ways, depending on what they turn into. For example, the character Bumblebee turns into a yellow Volkswagen Beetle.”

         “A beetle, you say?” Sparkplug said in wonder. “Now that’s got to be an interesting toy.”

         “There’s also a guy who turns into a semitruck,” Carla explained further. “His name is Optimus Prime.”

         “Optimus Prime,” Sparkplug repeated. “Now that’s quite the name.”

         “He’s the leader like Duke is in G.I. Joe,” Reggie said excitedly, holding up the character's figure. “I read some of Carla’s comic, and he seems to know his stuff. He never backs down while fighting the bad guys.”

         “He must be really brave to stand up to them,” said Maggie. “I wonder how he’d do against a dragon.”

         “A good question,” Sparkplug nodded to his youngest daughter. “Now, how about you kids finish up your breakfast. You two get to spend the day with me at the auto body shop while Carla runs some errands for our family.”

         “Remind me why I have to do them again?” Carla deadpanned, absentmindedly munching on her toast.

         “Because you need some time for yourself,” Sparkplug told her. “Ever since your mom passed away, things have been hard for us, especially for you. Things have been chaotic, so I thought spending some alone time focusing on yourself would help. I’ll even let you spend your allowance on something, and you can take it to your special spot outside of town. You’ve always liked going there when the world seemed too much for you and your mom.”

         Carla was surprised. She hadn’t thought about it, but her dad was right. She did need some alone time. Things have been hectic for the past year, and it certainly didn’t help with the depression she had been experiencing since her mother died. Who knows? Maybe she could get something out of it. It was worth a shot.

         “Thanks, Dad,” Carla smiled.

If there was anything you could say about Carla’s hometown, it was that it was small but active. With a population of just over a thousand, Mesa Heights, California, was like a mini Los Angeles. Named for the large mesa just outside of the city limits, this town was home to many small businesses, a few successful restaurants, and a surplus of unique individuals. It wasn’t glamorous like Hollywood, but it had its perks. Some of which Carla would rather avoid. She parked her moped on the side of the road, next to an impressive-looking motorcycle. She had a feeling her dad would be overjoyed to work on a model like this one.

Taking out a notebook, Carla went over the errands she had already completed. Buy groceries and put them away at home. Check. Drop some paid bills at the post office. Check. Return books from the library. Check. Only one more to go. Pick up some order forms at the music shop in the mall.

This whole thing had distracted her from her worries all day. Carla just hoped they wouldn’t come back to bite her. As she entered the Mesa Heights, she became overwhelmed by the sheer number of teenagers who had decided to spend their day here. Hopefully, she didn’t run into anyone who had the nerve to bother her. To make herself scarce, she pulled her cardigan over her head. It didn’t do much, but it helped her feel less obvious. If only she knew that someone would recognize her right away.

“Hey, Witwicky!”

Someone knocked into her, leaving her sprawled on the ground. She adjusted her glasses to see who did it and gave an annoyed groan when she saw who it was.

“What the heck, Trent?!” she told off the blonde boy above her. “Do you have brain damage or something?”

“If anyone’s got brain damage, it’s you, you weirdo,” Trent shot back. “You’ve been acting like that since last school year, and it’s peeving me off.”

“That doesn’t give you the right to attack me for no reason!” Carla shouted. “I was minding my own business!”

“Oh, are you mad?” Trent mocked. “Well, come at me, then. Show me how mad you are.”

“I am not dealing with this,” Carla groaned, picking up her things that had fallen out of her bag when Trent pushed her. Her hand was just about to grab a comic book when Trent took it out of her reach. To his surprise and Carla’s horror, it was her Transformers comic.

“You seriously like a little boy's toy comic?!” he said in disbelief. “You really are a weirdo.”

“Give it back, Trent,” Carla demanded. “I mean it.”

“Nah, I think I’ll keep it,” Trent smirked, keeping it out of her reach. “Maybe I’ll get some enjoyment out of never letting you read it again.”

“Trent, please, give it back,” Carla repeated, her efforts in vain as Trent pushed her back.

“Make me,” he goaded, intent on prolonging this for his amusement.

“Trent, I swear I’ll-”

“Are you making fun of my best friend again, Trent?”

Carla and Trent turned to the voice, fear and relief coming over them. Standing just to the side was a red-headed girl wearing a purple cardigan and a jean skirt, her face staring at Trent like a hawk. It was Izzy Lumberg, Carla’s best friend since diapers, and someone Trent knew not to mess with.

“Izzy, thank goodness,” Carla sighed in relief.

“Oh, uh, Isabel,” Trent muttered. “I was just, uh,-”

“Give her the comic book, Trent,” Izzy ordered, eyes narrowing. “Don’t make me report you to security for making a scene.”

Trent did as he was told, immediately pushing the comic onto Carla’s chest. He quickly made himself scarce without another word, leaving the girls alone. Carla breathed another sigh of relief as she watched him leave. Thank goodness that was over with.

“Thanks, Izzy,” she told her best friend. “Trent was being a total nuisance.”

“Yeah, I saw,” Izzy said in sympathy. “He can be a real jerk sometimes.”

“He even called me a weirdo,” Carla pinched the bridge of her nose. “So what if I’m weird? I mean, there’s nothing wrong with that. Heck, even my little sister is her own brand of weird, and she’s autistic.”

“Don’t let it get to ya,” Izzy encouraged. “In the meantime, mind telling me what brings you to the mall today? Normally, you don’t come unless it’s with your family or with me.”

“I’ve been running some errands for my dad today,” Carla explained. “Said it would keep my mind off of family matters. I was on my way to the music shop to pick up some order forms when Trent jumped on me.”

“Oh, hey, I was just there,” Izzy smiled. “I had saved enough money to buy a record I’ve been wanting to get my hands on for, like, forever.” She took it out of her bag and showed it off. Carla’s eyes lit up upon seeing it. It was a record for the Thriller album by Michael Jackson, the greatest pop star to ever live on the face of the earth. In Carla and Izzy’s opinion, at least.

“I thought those were sold out a long time ago,” Carla said in amazement. “How did they get it in stock?”

“I saw it last week and just had to get it,” Izzy explained. “I even did some extra chores to earn enough money to buy it. My mom recently dusted off the old record player. I might use it to give this a spin.”

“That is awesome, Izzy,” Carla beamed. “I hope you have fun with it.”

“Speaking of fun, what are you gonna do after you finish your errands?” Izzy asked curiously.

“I’m gonna go down to my special spot and rest for a bit,” Carla answered. “Dad said I could even use my allowance to buy something. I’m just not sure what.”

“Well, what about one of those new Transformers toys that just hit the shelves at the toy store?” Izzy suggested. “Based on how determined you were to get back that comic from Trent, I think you have some type of admiration for this story.”

“I guess,” Carla shrugged. “But there are so many characters to choose from, and not all of them are out yet. The next issue won’t even land until the cartoon that usually comes alongside a toyline like this releases.”

“That’s on you,” Izzy said with a smile. “I’m sure that whatever you pick, it will bring some much-needed joy you never knew you needed.”

Carla giggled. Izzy knew how to cheer her up. It’s one of the reasons why they’ve stayed friends this long. After taking care of the errand at the music store, the two girls went over to the toy store to check out the Transformers toys. There were a ton of options to choose from, but in the end, Carla was able to make a decision. A Bumblebee toy had caught her eye, and it was cheap enough that it didn’t take a lot from her allowance. It was perfect.

Carla said goodbye to Izzy after finishing up in the mall and made her way to her special spot. It wasn’t a long trip since it was just a few miles out near the mesa. It stood as a separation between the California desert and a forest area, with a river flowing nearby. Carla’s special spot was at the base of a sparsely used hiking trail right next to the river in the forest area. It was the perfect place to get away from all the stress. It was why her mom liked it so much.

After parking her moped and walking the trail, Carla sat on a rock next to the river, the rushing water filling her ears. She took the Bumblebee toy out of her bag and removed it from its packaging. She couldn’t wait to transform it. The instructions seemed easy enough, so she got started right away. Move the arms there, the feet over here, bring up the back, move down the head… And voila! He was now a tiny car!

Carla could see why this toy line might gain eventual popularity. This was fun! It reminded her of the transformation Bumblebee did in the comic. The little yellow bot was an important character in the story and he even encountered a human named Buster who was likely to become friends with him. Coincidentally, Buster had the same last name as her. Witwicky. Even his father’s name was Sparkplug like her dad. 

Still, it was a compelling story, and she looked forward to the next issue. In all honesty, she was kind of jealous of Buster. Who wouldn’t want the chance to hang out with a giant robot from space? It wasn’t possible in real life, though. Whether or not aliens existed was still a debated topic, and yet sci-fi shows and movies made the fantasy all the more desirable. Carla was a fan of Star Wars and Star Trek, so even she could admit she wanted to get off the planet and get away from everything. It was a selfish desire, but she’ll digress.

After transforming Bumblebee back to bot mode, Carla brought out her journal and started to write. After everything that happened so far today, she felt the need to get her emotions out privately. It worked in the past, so it will work now.

“Hey, it’s me, again. I didn’t have much to share the last time I wrote in this, but today has been filled with so much activity, I need to share it.

I was at first frustrated with Dad when he asked me to run some errands, but they did a good job distracting me. For most of the day. 

Trent caught me in the mall and decided to mess with me. If it wasn’t for Izzy intervening, who knows what he could have gotten away with? To think that his fear of my childhood friend’s wrath during grade school would carry on this long.

Anyways, he nearly stole my Transformers comic. Said it was dumb of me to like such a thing. But I don’t think it’s dumb at all. Transformers has such a unique story that I can’t help but wait for more. I even bought a figure of Bumblebee today. 

I’m still not sure what to expect this year, but hopefully, I can live it to the fullest. My mom would’ve wanted me to if she were still alive.

I miss her. So much. But I’ll be fine. As my mom would always say, “Keep your chin up.”

Yours truly,

Carla Witwicky

Some drops landed on the page next to her name. Carla saw them and felt the tears streaking down her face. She sniffed, clearing them away with her hand. She hadn’t noticed she was crying until now. Guess she'd better pack up and go home. She put the journal back in her bag along with the Bumblebee toy and got up from the ground. After one last look at the river, she made her way back to the trail.

The trail was close to the mesa’s walls. When she was a kid, she loved to run her hand along the stone face. So, for nostalgia’s sake, she decided to do it again. She had only been doing it for a few minutes when she felt something unusual. The mesa had been around for a long time, like a lot of rock formations. According to a few town scientists, it likely used to be a mountain that slowly eroded into the shape it's in now. So, why did it feel like metal?!

Carla was confused. Why was there a piece of metal in the mesa? Feeling it down further, she could see more of the metal going down the side of it. It disappeared into the trees just off the trail. Carla knew going off a trail would get you lost, but her curiosity was getting the best of her. Maybe as long as she marked where she was going, she could get back the same way. Yeah, that sounded like a good decision. Running her hand along the metal, she followed it where it could lead.

In half an hour, the metal became more and more obvious, taking up more space than the rock. While remaining vigilant to mark her trail, Carla’s confusion only grew. Where did this even come from, and how long has it been inside the mesa? Why was it here? How did it get here? An answer came quickly when the metal started to lead to something unexpected. Carla almost stumbled when she saw it. She even tried cleaning her glasses to determine whether or not she was seeing things. She most definitely was not because right above her was a rocket thruster. A giant-and thankfully inactive-rocket thruster.

“What the heck?” she whispered to herself, her awe and confusion increasing. She had to get to the bottom of this.

The trees were starting to get few and far between, leading to the desert just beyond the mesa. Carla had to be careful not to go too far. So, she decided to stay by the strange rocket thing and see if there was anything else unusual about it. She was surprised no one knew about it. Maybe they thought it was part of the rock and left it alone. Carla, on the other hand, decided to see what it was connected to. It could be some type of abandoned government missile base, or maybe an alien spaceship? The latter was unlikely, but it was worth a try to find out.

She climbed further down, feeling around the metal. Was there a door anywhere? Given the size of the thruster, it was probably really big. And closed. Or maybe it wasn’t as closed as she thought. Out of the corner of her eye, there was a small hole in the corner of the massive metal form. Large enough for her to crawl through with her bag still on her back. She ducked down near it and entered through the hole. It looked to be pretty dark when she got inside. Aside from the light coming from the hole, she couldn’t see a thing. Good thing she packed a flashlight in the case, she was late getting home tonight.

Bringing out the flashlight and turning it on, Carla started to explore the cavernous metal behemoth. Whoever worked on this thing seemed to think big because the further she went in, the larger it looked. And she meant that in a literal sense. Some of the stuff in here was strewn about, and Carla had to climb over a few because of how big they were. Eventually, she made it to a tall doorway. A series of buttons was next to it, too high for her to reach. Great. Now, how was I going to discover what was up with this place?

She leaned against the wall in frustration. To her surprise, though, this triggered something. As if moving on ice, the buttons went down to her height, lighting up with strange symbols. Carla blinked. How did it do that? Did this keypad have some type of code you needed to put in? She couldn’t exactly read the symbols, but they were aligned like elevator buttons. Wonder what would happen if she pressed one. Seeing the topmost button, she jumped up and pressed it, a beeping sound coming from the door. It slid apart, revealing a smaller room, but still pretty big to Carla. So it was an elevator.

Taking the chance, she ran inside. Once the doors closed, it started moving, shuddering a bit. It made Carla stumble. From what she felt, this elevator must not have been used in a while. The likelihood of this being an ancient spaceship growing.

When the elevator stopped and the doors opened, Carla stepped into the room she had chosen. Her flashlight could only show so much in the darkness, but it was evident that this room may have been important. As she walked in further, massive metal formations began to take shape. There were so many of them, looking like they’d seen better days. One such metal giant was seated in a large chair, blue legs on the ground, and in a position that told her it had collapsed into it. The way the legs looked was also kind of familiar, but she couldn’t put her finger on it. Beyond the legs were more metal giants. Having watched Japanese animated shows, Carla guessed that they were part of some military mecha project that got abandoned. If it was what they were, she was glad it never saw the light of day. You couldn’t exactly trust the government with such a thing.

One giant was propped up against another large piece of metal. Through the light of her flashlight, Carla could see that it had some magenta coloring. An interesting choice of color. Since it caught her interest, she decided to climb its arm and see if there was anything else to study about it. She struggled a bit with how smooth and rough the metal was in different areas. When she got to the shoulder, she saw that she could lift herself to what it was leaning against. She did so, but didn’t seem to notice when her flashlight was put in the direction of the metal giant’s face. One young-looking and in the throes of sleep, a crest of silver in the center of its forehead framed by a double crown of yellow and dark magenta.

Carla wiped some sweat off her forehead after pulling herself up. She is giving herself quite the workout today. Using her flashlight again, she could see that there were more buttons with strange symbols like the ones from the elevator. If she was correct about the aliens, they must have a pretty advanced language. None of it made sense to her. She walked around the buttons, trying to memorize what the symbols looked like. She was so caught up in it that she didn’t notice that she stepped down on a big one. One that seemed to activate the entire place.

The brightness of some holographic screens appeared, startling Carla. She yelped in surprise. She was so caught off guard that she nearly fell again. In a foreign language, an autotuned voice began to speak, saying things Carla couldn’t understand. Not that she wanted to. Whatever was happening, she didn’t want to find out.

The escape from the spaceship, which Carla was hoping wasn’t hostile, was a blur. Carla was intent on getting out of there, so she didn’t care what was happening around her. She went back down the elevator, ran through the large room she came into, darted out the hole, and back to the outside world. The light outside was bright and disoriented her for a bit. When she finally got her bearings back, she started back to the trail, not caring to look back. When she finally got back to her moped, she immediately collapsed beside it, breathing heavily. What… What on earth was that? How was the ship thingy still active?! Was there a failed alien invasion she didn’t know about? What was going on?!

No. Now wasn’t the time to panic. Taking some deep breaths, Carla calmed herself down. There we go. Now that she could think again, she could assess her situation. Starting with what she was going to tell her family if they asked about what happened. She couldn’t possibly tell them, could she? Sparkplug was understanding, but he would think it was too far-fetched to be true. Reggie might get a kick out of it, but he probably wouldn’t get it and come up with some scenarios she never experienced to make it sound cooler. Maggie would also marvel at it, but her anxiety could potentially flare up from the worry. Her autism didn’t make it easy for her to process certain social cues and emotional responses. Even if she did believe her, there was a likelihood she’d have a meltdown trying to process what exactly her sister was going through. Then there was Izzy. Her best friend would probably think she was crazy.

Well, whatever she would tell them, she would make sure they didn’t worry too much. It was her problem to deal with, and she promised she would get to the bottom of it. If she could. Now with her mind made up, Carla decided to take a quick rest before she went back into town. She still had plenty of time till curfew. Which also meant she had time to process this. Everything would be okay. At least she hoped so.

Unbeknownst to the teenager, she set off a chain of events that would change her life forever. One that was more than meets the eye. And it was finally waking up.

“Attention: Ark systems activated. Commencing internal scans.”

Teletraan-1 was operational again. An organic foreign entity had turned its systems back on. It scanned the inside of the Ark, gathering information. The organic was leaving. Its heightened heart rate indicated it was panicked. Before long, it had left the vicinity. It wasn’t of importance, however. Its passengers were of priority.

The AI immediately sent out Sky-spy, a special satellite made for studying planets. It launched into the atmosphere and started gathering information from the planet’s surface. A series of signals came through, telling Teletraan that the planet had evolved past the date they had intended to land. They had a dominant native species known as humans that were spread all across the planet, which they called Earth. The organic that activated it was also a human, specifically an adolescant female. 

As Sky-spy studied further, it became apparent that humans have their own vehicles, many of them the size of their passengers’ alt modes. Since many of the passengers required repair, using the schematics of these vehicles to reformat their frames would help in their restoration. To do this, the Sky-spy sent out various drones to scan the vehicles. One drone traveled to a military base, scanning a fighter plane. Once the schematics were scanned and downloaded, Teletraan brought out a special laser to focus on a frame that would take the reformat. In this case, it was a purple and black flight frame. Some robot arms came out to properly align the frame as the laser initiated the reformat. Once it was done, the mech was brought out of stasis. Creating a very confused Skywarp.

“Huh?! What?! Who?!” he yelled out, freaking out a bit. How long was he in recharge? He didn’t even remember when he’d gone into it. Looking around, though, the memories came back very quickly.

He was still on the Ark, but both Autobots and Decepticons were beaten up and in stasis. Which meant he had been in stasis just as long as them. He looked over at the laser the ship had brought up. It was likely looking for something out there, and judging by how different his frame was, it was probably scanning for possible alt modes. Alt modes that the Decepticons needed. So, rushing over the central command area, he decided that the best one to reformat next was his leader.

After sticking his glossa out at the limp Optimus in the captain’s chair, he lifted Megatron under the shoulders, struggling slightly with his weight. Once he got him in position, the laser focused on the warlord. Outside, another drone had found what looked to be a suitable alt mode for a warframe, located in another base but shadier-looking. Megatron’s frame took it with minimal changes to his kibble. He jerked out of stasis, panicking like Skywarp did, but more intensely.

“Whoah! Lord Megatron, calm down! It’s me!” Skywarp shouted at the warlord, shoving his fusion cannon away from his faceplate.

“Skywarp?” Megatron said in surprise. “What has happened to your frame?”

“Got an upgrade from the Ark’s computer,” Skywarp told him. “I dragged you over here so it could do the same for you.”

Megatron could see that he wasn’t wrong. There wasn’t much that changed, but his frame did have some slight differences to it. If the Ark’s systems were repairing every single mecha in here, then they had to make sure the Decepticons got them first. 

“I see,” he said, nodding to the Seeker. “Then we must do the same for the others. Quickly, help me get them into position.”

The two of them set to work. The Vehicons were all but useless, so they discarded them in a pile. Skywarp brought over his trinemates to the reforming laser, and they ended up with the same frame as him. Starscream wasn’t too happy about going into stasis for so long, but after he and Thundercracker were brought up to speed, they joined in reviving the rest of the Decepticons. When Megatron brought back Soundwave, he ordered the communications officer to take a record of all the Decepticons who had taken part in the boarding. 

The list had quite a variety. Megatron. The Elite Trine. Soundwave and his cassettes: Ravage, Laserbeak, Buzzsaw, Ratbat, and the twins, Rumble and Frenzy. A combiner gestalt known as the Constructicons. The rest of them were Vehicons, all of them deactivated and past repair. Megatron paid it no mind. The Nemesis had likely landed on this planet as well, so they would get more troops from there. And with that, they left the Ark., but not before Skywarp kicked Ironhide over for the heck of it.

The door to the Ark was blasted down by Megatron’s fusion cannon, revealing the planet’s flora and blue sky. They marched into the outside world, taking in the scenery. It was extremely organic. Even the new smells were too much for their olfactory sensors. But it also meant that it was filled with resources. Resources they could exploit.

Megatron turned to address his troops, his brow ridge furrowed. “My fellow Decepticons. We now stand in a world vastly different from ours. Right now, our main objective is to find our ship and learn what we can about this planet to achieve the ultimate victory when we return to Cybertron. Now, transform and rise up!”

The warlord transformed into his new tank mode, and the others followed suit. The Elite Trine sans Starscream turned into the native aircraft and lifted off. They were about to follow Megatron’s lead into this new world when they noticed him looking back at the Ark.

“Starscream, what’s the holdup?” Thundercracker asked.

“Just going to send the Autobots a little parting gift,” Starscream answered with a smirk. Aiming his null-ray at the cliffside, he shot at the rockface, creating a small avalanche that shook the ship, intended to further damage the Autobots inside. He laughed with glee as he transformed and lifted off to join his trine. As far as he knew, the Autobots got what they deserved. 

It most certainly was not the case.

Back inside, the shaking that came from the rocks had shifted the reformatting laser. Aimed straight at Optimus Prime. Outside in the town nearby, a drone scanned a large semitruck pulling a trailer behind it. The laser repaired and reformatted the Prime, bringing him out of stasis. He sharply gasped, nearly falling off the captain’s chair. He took in his surroundings, everything coming back to him. The Decepticons had boarded their ship and attacked them. He fought with Megatron, and their brawl had sent the Ark crashing into the planet below. They had gone into stasis, and-- Where were the Decepticons?!

The Prime frantically looked around. Besides the dead Vehicons, the Decepticons were nowhere to be found. Teletraan must have brought them back online first.

“Scrap!” Optimus shouted in frustration. They could be anywhere. He couldn’t go after now, though. His Autobots needed him.

Hot Rod and Bumblebee were next to the command console and not looking too good. Putting some commands into the computer, Optimus had Teletraan redirect the reformatter to their positions. The drones outside scanned two cars, one more sports-like, the other small and compact but rounded. After the reformat was done, they both came out of stasis in a startled manner.

“Wh-what happened?!” Bumblebee asked in panic.

“I think we survived the crash landing,” said Hot Rod, still in shock from his wakeup call.

“Easy, boys,” Optimus said in a low voice, lowering himself to touch their shoulders. “I know you just came out of stasis, but I need you to remain calm. The Decepticons have left the Ark, and we need to bring the Autobots online if we are to protect this planet from their onslaught.”

“Okay, that I get, but how long have we been in stasis?” Hot Rod asked.

“Our frames are different, so probably really long,” Bumblebee guessed, observing how strange his alt mode kibble was now. The large light things on his chassis were way too obvious on him. At least Hot Rod got to keep his spoiler.

“Once everyone is back on their pedes, we can look into it,” Optimus promised. “Now, come on. Help me with Jazz and Prowl.”

One by one, the Autobots were reformatted and out of stasis. Everyone gathered together once the procedure was done so Optimus could make an announcement. There were some disoriented bots, but they held out for this. With his sons and officers next to him, Optimus cleared his voice box to address his troops.

“Everyone, I know this is sudden, but we need to take precautions,” he told them. “The Decepticons are at large and are likely to exploit the resources of this planet. But before we can go after them, we need to see how long we were in stasis. Teletraan-1, can you bring up a timeline?”

“Oh, c’mon, it can’t be that long,” said Sideswipe, thinking that this would be nothing.

“Autobot Ark has been on the planet known as Earth for an estimated 48,192 vorns. In this planet’s measurements, 4 million years.”

The Autobots gasped. They had been in stasis for that long?

“I take it back. It’s been really long,” Sideswipe said nervously.

“Interesting,” said Perceptor. “Our time on this planet has exceeded what can be observed through Cybertron’s telescopes. It’s likely that over time, it evolved to a point where they had the technology to create their own vehicles and other mechanical objects, judging by our new forms.”

“New forms, you say?” Jazz said nonchalantly. “That means new alt modes. Let’s say we head outside and test them out. We could even start studying what this planet has to offer. What did Teletraan call it again?”

“Earth,” Optimus said in wonder. “Yes, we should see what it has to offer. Jazz, take us outside.”

Outside the Ark was brighter than the Autobots thought, but it did have some space nearby to test out the new alt modes. According to Teletraan, they were based on the schematics of the various vehicles the main populace, an organic race called humans, had made for their daily travels. Even the plants and animals were organic. However, this also meant their search for resources would be harder than previously thought. Since they had meant to gather them during the planet’s prehistoric era, the risk of running into any of the inhabitants was not on the agenda. They were likely to panic whether or not it was one of the Autobots or a Decepticon. So, to make sure they knew what to do around them, Prowl and a younger officer, designated Bluestreak, patrolled the area to see if any human settlements were nearby.

Optimus watched as his sons tested their alt modes with the rest of the cadets. Hot Rod and Bumblebee were racing against Sideswipe and Sunstreaker, who looked to have matching alt modes. Arcee, meanwhile, was a two-wheeler, mass displacement making it possible for her to maintain the size of the vehicle. Blaster, on the other hand, was not a vehicle, but a radio device. Even he had mass displacement to maintain the original size of the object. Currently, he was scanning the airwaves, gathering whatever information he could that Teletraan couldn’t.

“I win again!” Hot Rod said, transforming back after another race.

“No fair!” “Your new engine gives you an advantage!” The twins were not happy to lose so fast.

“Maybe you should just give up and admit defeat,” Hot Rod smirked egotistically. “I’m just that good.”

“Good enough to leave us in the dust!” Bumblebee shot at him, miffed that he fell behind again. His alt mode wasn’t built for speed, but it irritated him that Hot Rod and the others didn’t consider letting him catch up.

“Geez, Hot Rod. Way to leave Bumblebee behind again,” Arcee rolled her optics at the speedster sarcastically. 

“Oops.” Hot Rod had a guilty look on his faceplate. Usually, he’d have Bee close to him, but sometimes he would get so caught up in a race, he forgot who he was racing against until it was over. To make sure he got the message, Bumblebee kicked him in the shinplate.

“If you do that again, I’m telling Dad,” he said, giving his older brother a warning look.

“What are you, five?” Hot Rod questioned. As far as he was concerned, tattle-telling was for sparklings.

“That’s enough, you two,” Ironhide called from across the clearing. “Prowl and Bluestreak are back from patrol.”

“Let’s hope what they got has something to do with the information I was just presented,” said a disoriented Blaster, who had been in alt mode for a while.

“What did you find?” Optimus asked once the two officers had transformed back.

“I’m afraid keeping a low profile is going to be harder than we thought,” said Prowl. “An organic settlement with at least a few thousand in its population is located nearby.”

“They placed it right in front of the other side of this rock we crashed into,” Bluestreak added. “The locals didn’t bat an optic when they saw us in our alt modes, though. Prowl even looks like one of the vehicles they use for law enforcement.”

“Just what we needed,” said an irritated Ratchet, who was checking everyone over to see if there were any side effects from the long stasis and reformat. “Unwanted guests. I bet 20 shanix one of them’s gonna wander on over here and see our mangled up ship.”

“We don’t know that, Ratchet,” Optimus said sternly. “The best we can do for now is hide in plain sight and protect this planet from the Decepticons, wherever they may be.”

“That doesn’t mean they won’t be curious,” Ratchet insisted. “For all we know, they have their own governments if they’re this developed. There’s a guaranteed chance they’ll discover us before we know it. They might’ve done it before we came out of stasis.”

“Actually, I think one already did,” Blaster decided to share.

The Autobot High Command, sans Optimus, immediately went into panic mode.

“What! Why didn’t you say this earlier?”

“How did you find out?”

“You mean to tell us one of those ‘humans’ got into the Ark?”

“See, what’d I tell ya?”

“Everyone, calm down!” Optimus ordered. “Blaster, can you share how you came upon this information?”

“Teletraan is using Sky-spy to gather a lot of info on this mudball,” Blaster told him. “So, I decided to help it and see what it couldn’t get. The location of this organic was one of them. I was surprised, but curiosity got the best of me. Turns out, it was responsible for waking us up by accident. If it hadn’t, we wouldn’t be here.”

It made sense. This organic-this human-was the key to their awakening on this planet. Wherever they went, it was unknown. Surely they lived in the town nearby, but exactly where was up for debate. Still, Optimus has to thank them. The Decepticons had also woken up, but so had they. The Autobots would protect this planet even if it meant putting their sparks on the line.

“Teletraan lost its whereabouts after it left, so the trail is cold,” Blaster continued. “None of the signals I intercepted had anything to do with it. They do have good music, though.”

“Dad, do you think we’ll ever find this human?” Bumblebee asked.

“I don’t know, Bumblebee,” Optimus nodded to him. “But they have my thanks. All of us should give our thanks. While it may have been an accident, they set the course for our journey on this planet. This planet called Earth. In return, we will protect it with all our spark. Till all are one!”

“Till all are one!” the Autobots repeated, their leader inspiring them once again.

“The ‘Cons won’t know what hit ‘em, Dad!” Hot Rod said with confidence. They may be on a planet they knew little about, but he was determined to protect it like his dad said they would.

“Autobots! Transform and roll out.” Optimus said with pride. He transformed into a semitruck, ready to see what this world had in store. Hot Rod and Bumblebee were close behind, ready to take on what comes at them. 

In the suburbs of Mesa Heights, a moped ran through the streets, its driver determined to get home. Carla was still reeling from the close encounter with the alien spaceship. She had so many questions. Where did such a UFO come from? When did it land? How long has it been under the freaking mesa?! Who the heck was she gonna tell?

She had considered her family earlier, but she still wasn’t sure how they’d react. She had no time to dwell on it, though. Her house was close by. After parking her moped in the driveway, she frantically got off and ran to the door. She got inside and slammed it behind her, breathing heavily. The noise it made caught her dad’s attention. He saw her in the entryway, wondering what had gotten her so frazzled.

“Carla, are you okay?” he asked, coming up to her and gently holding her shoulders. “What happened to make you so stressed out? Wasn’t this outing supposed to help you?”

Carla looked up at him, wondering what she was supposed to say. It wasn’t like she could just say, “Oh, hey, Dad. I just got back from exploring an alien spaceship that’s stuck in the mesa. I accidentally turned on the computer and probably started an alien invasion. But it's okay. I’m totally not freaking out about it.’ Yeah. Even she thought it was crazy. So instead, she just gave a nervous laugh and brushed it off.

“Don’t worry, Dad, I’m fine,” she said with a strained smile. “I’m probably just winded from being out all day. I’ll just go to bed early and sleep it off.”

“Carla,” Sparkplug said sternly. “I know when something’s bothering you. You don’t have to tell me if you’re not up to it yet, but I can’t help you if you keep it to yourself.”

Carla sighed. Her dad could read her like a book. “I’m sorry, its just… Something happened when I was coming back from my special spot and… It scared me. And I have no idea what it means. All I know is that it’s by the mesa and that it has something that I’m not sure how to explain.”

“I’m sorry that happened to you, sweetie,” Sparkplug said softly, giving his daughter a much-needed hug. “When you feel ready, you can tell me all about it. Now get yourself to bed. We’ll talk in the morning.”

“Thanks, Dad. Love you.”

“Love you too, Carla.”

As Carla made her way upstairs, Reggie and Maggie came out into the hallway, already in their pajamas. 

“Carla, you’re back!” Reggie said excitedly, holding a Snake Eyes figure.

“Did you have a good day?” Maggie asked, with Mr. Bun and her Firefly pony in her arms.

“Yeah, it was good,” Carla told them. “Well, most of it was.”

“What do you mean, most of it?” Maggie asked in confusion. As far as she was concerned, a good day was a good day.

“I found something weird at the mesa,” Carla continued. “You don’t have to worry about it.”

“Well, what was it?” Reggie pushed, eager to know.

“I’ll tell you guys in the morning,” Carla assured. “Right now, I want to go to bed.”

“Okay, good night, Carla,” Maggie smiled, leaving her sister be. Reggie, however, was still curious.

“Are you sure you don’t want to tell us?” he said, squinting at Carla as she unloaded her backpack in her room.

“Yeah, I’m sure,” Carla told him. “It’s just-it was a lot. I’m still trying to process it.” She brought out her Bumblebee and Transformers comics. Her brother’s eyes widened when he saw the toy.

“Since when did you get a Bumblebee toy?” he said, coming over to look at it.

“Bought it with my allowance,” Carla shared. “Got it at the mall after running into Izzy today.”

“He looks way different from the one in your comic,” Reggie said, playing with the toy’s arm a little.

“Designs for toys don’t always look like the comic or the cartoon,” Carla said as she got out her pajamas. “I guess Bumblebee is one of them.”

“I guess so,” Reggie shrugged, flipping through the comic. “Spending so long in a mountain probably did something to his face.”

Carla froze in place, remembering a specific part of the comic. “Did you say mountain?” she asked Reggie, surprised he read that part.

“Yeah, the mountain the Autobots crashed into,” Reggie told her, showing the specific panel of the mountain where with Autobot ship, the Ark, was.

Carla looked at it, the similarities becoming obvious. The ship she came upon was lodged in the mesa, but it used to be a mountain. But could it really be…? She shook her head. No, it wasn’t possible. Or was it? Ugh, it was confusing.

“Are you okay?” Reggie asked in concern.

“I’ll be fine,” Carla reassured him. “I just need to rest my brain. I’ll see you in the morning. Good night, Reggie.”

“Okay. Good night, Carla,” Reggie nodded. After he left the room, Carla finished getting ready for bed, wondering how the heck something in a comic book would be so similar to something she found in real life.

She collapsed on her bed, taking out her headphones and Walkman. She put in an album cassette for Journey to fall asleep to. Don’t Stop Believin’ filled her ears, giving her a sense of calm. She’d deal with the spaceship thing tomorrow. Besides, the thing was ancient as heck. Those computers probably stopped working by now. Little did she know that by next week, she would be totally proven wrong.

Out on the mesa, Optimus Prime and his sons were overlooking the town built around it. It was such a stark contrast from Cybertron. As they sat down together, the Prime couldn’t help but look up into the sky. This side of the planet was now in its dark cycle, its moon shining down on them. It was peaceful. And after the longest time, Optimus felt it. Although the Decepticons were still out there, he welcomed it.

Bumblebee fell into recharge at his side. He let the young bot lean on him, servo rubbing his back. His other arm was around Hot Rod’s shoulders, a fondness in the speedster’s gaze as he looked down into the town below. “Hey, Dad?”

“Yes, Hot Rod?” Optimus turned to him, his attention turned away from the sky.

“Do you still feel Mom?” his son asked. “We’ve been on this planet a long time, so…”

“She’s still there, Hot Rod,” Optimus reassured him, placing a servo on his spark. “Time has progressed on this planet, but it hasn’t severed our connection. When we gain back the means to travel back to Cybertron, I’m sure she will be overjoyed to see us return. For now, we should honor that promise we made to her by protecting this planet.”

“Does that mean we can visit the town?” Hot Rod beamed, excitement building up.

“As long as you don’t attract attention,” Optimus reminded him. “We still aren’t sure if the humans will trust us.”

“I’m sure I can make friends with a human,” Hot Rod said confidently. “Besides, organic life seems cool.”

“I’m sure it is,” Optimus chuckled. “You know, your great-grandsire and his brothers and sister-in-law admired all the life they came across as they traveled the universe together.”

“Yeah, me and Bee always loved listening to his stories about their adventures,” Hot Rod smiled, looking at his brother fondly as the yellow bot snored.

“And now, we can have some of our own,” Optimus said, bringing down his battle mask to show his son his smile. “After all, there is more to this universe than meets the eye.”

“Don’t you mean optic?” Hot Rod asked, puzzled at the word change. He was still trying to get a grasp on Earth’s languages.

“You know what I mean,” Optimus smirked jokingly. It got a laugh out of the speedster.

This planet was different, but it had a lot in store. As far as this small family was concerned, they would be taking it head-on. And they couldn’t wait to make the most of it.