#best oolong

[acalatea0786]

Title: Best Teapot: A Vessel for Brewing Perfection

Brewing the perfect cup of tea begins with the Best Teapot. Explore our collection of teapots designed for both form and function. Whether you prefer glass, ceramic, or cast iron, these teapots elevate your tea experience.

[everythingisarabbithole]

[starwarsanthropology]

Get to know me tag game

Rules: answer + tag 9 people you want to get to know better and/or catch up with.

Thank you to @mamuzzy for the tag :) !

Favorite color : Green!! very fond of green

Last song : Some jazz song my girlfriend showed me. I dont remember the title but it had 40 monthly listeners on spotify

Currently reading : RepComm! waiting on True Colors rn

Currently watching: Delicious in Dungeon :)

Currently playing: I don't play video games much but the last thing I played was Chants of Senaar which I highly reccomend

Currently craving : tart fruit like a plum or something

Coffee or tea : I like both, but I collect tea! I have maybe 20 different kinds on hand at the moment?

A hobby you would like to try : I think felting could be fun! Or I want to start doing a martial art/fighting sport again

An AU/Alternate universe you've been plotting for : I've had a corrie guard fix-it with corries somehow ending up being supervision for delinquent children CPD shoves off on them percolating in my brain but im not sure if im going to publish/write extensively for it.

I'm not sure who is ok with people tagging them for tag games without existing friendships so I am going to refrain from tagging anyone specific but feel free if you would like, and feel free to tag me in other tag games!

[imblocking-you]

061 BEING SO THOUGHTFUL ARGHGHFJFHD I NEED TO CHOMP ON SOME WOOD

[bulmaappreciation]

[gaygollum]

made some BOMB grapefruit green tea <33 fresh fruit + tea literally unmatched combo

[backyardbrew1]

Tea Online: A Guide to Exploring and Enjoying Your Favorite Brews

In recent years, purchasing tea online has become a popular trend, transforming how enthusiasts and casual drinkers discover and enjoy this timeless beverage. With countless varieties available, from classic black and green teas to herbal infusions and exotic blends, online shopping provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the world of tea. In this blog, we will delve into the benefits of buying tea online, explore different types of tea, share tips for selecting the best products, and provide insights into how to brew the perfect cup at home.

The Advantages of Buying Tea Online

Purchasing tea online comes with several unique benefits that cater to tea lovers everywhere:

1. Extensive Selection

One of the most significant advantages of buying tea online is the sheer variety available. Unlike local stores, which may have limited options, online retailers often provide an extensive selection of teas from different regions and types. You can easily discover new flavors and blends that may not be available in your area.

2. Quality Assurance

Reputable online tea sellers usually prioritize quality, sourcing their products directly from farmers or trusted suppliers. Many provide detailed information about the origins, processing methods, and flavor profiles of their teas, allowing you to make informed choices and select high-quality options that suit your preferences.

3. Convenience

Shopping for tea online is incredibly convenient. You can browse and order your favorite blends from the comfort of your home, saving time and effort. Many retailers offer subscription services, ensuring you never run out of your favorite teas while often providing discounts for recurring orders.

4. Customer Reviews and Recommendations

Online shopping platforms allow you to read customer reviews, which can be invaluable when trying to decide which tea to purchase. You can learn about the experiences of other tea lovers, helping you find the best products based on their feedback.

Types of Tea Available Online

To fully appreciate the diversity of tea, it's essential to understand the different types available. Here’s a breakdown of the primary categories of tea you can find online:

1. Black Tea

Black tea is one of the most popular types of tea worldwide. It is fully oxidized, resulting in a bold flavor and dark color. Common varieties include Assam, Darjeeling, and Earl Grey. Black tea is often enjoyed with milk and sugar but can also be appreciated on its own.

2. Green Tea

Green tea is known for its delicate flavor and numerous health benefits. It is minimally processed and retains its natural green color. Popular varieties include Sencha, Matcha, and Dragon Well. Green tea is often enjoyed plain but can be enhanced with lemon or honey.

3. Oolong Tea

Oolong tea falls somewhere between black and green tea, as it is partially oxidized. This unique processing method gives it a complex flavor profile, ranging from floral to fruity. Well-known varieties include Tie Guan Yin and Da Hong Pao.

4. White Tea

White tea is the least processed of all tea types, made from young tea leaves and buds. It has a light, subtle flavor and is rich in antioxidants. Silver Needle and White Peony are popular varieties.

5. Herbal Tea

Technically not a tea since it doesn’t come from the Camellia sinensis plant, herbal tea is made from various herbs, spices, and flowers. Herbal teas come in countless varieties and can offer a range of flavors and health benefits. Popular options include chamomile, peppermint, and hibiscus.

Tips for Buying Tea Online

When purchasing tea online, consider the following tips to enhance your shopping experience:

1. Read Product Descriptions Carefully

Take the time to read the product descriptions on the retailer's website. Look for information about the tea's origin, flavor notes, and brewing instructions. This will help you choose the best tea for your taste preferences.

2. Check for Freshness

Quality tea should be fresh. Look for retailers that provide harvest dates or packaging dates to ensure you’re buying tea that hasn’t been sitting on the shelf for too long.

3. Explore Sample Packs

If you’re unsure which tea to choose, consider purchasing sample packs. Many online retailers offer curated selections that allow you to taste different teas without committing to a full-sized package.

4. Buy Premium Tea Online with Backyard Brew

If you’re looking for high-quality tea, buy premium tea online with Backyard Brew. Our selection features a variety of teas sourced from reputable suppliers, ensuring you receive the best quality for your tea-drinking experience.

Brewing the Perfect Cup of Tea

Once you’ve selected your tea, it’s time to brew the perfect cup! The brewing method can greatly influence the flavor and aroma of your tea. Here are some essential tips for brewing various types of tea:

1. Use Fresh Water

Always start with fresh, cold water. The quality of the water you use will affect the final taste of your tea. Avoid using water that has been previously boiled, as it can lose oxygen, resulting in flat-tasting tea.

2. Measure the Tea

Using the right amount of tea leaves is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor. Generally, one teaspoon of loose leaf tea per cup (8 oz) of water is a good guideline, but this can vary based on the type of tea and personal preference.

3. Monitor Water Temperature

Different types of tea require different brewing temperatures:

Black Tea: 200-212°F (93-100°C)

Green Tea: 160-180°F (70-82°C)

Oolong Tea: 180-200°F (82-93°C)

White Tea: 160-185°F (70-85°C)

Herbal Tea: 200-212°F (93-100°C)

Using the correct temperature will help you extract the best flavors from your tea leaves.

4. Brewing Time

Brewing time is essential for achieving the desired flavor:

Black Tea: 3-5 minutes

Green Tea: 2-3 minutes

Oolong Tea: 4-7 minutes

White Tea: 4-5 minutes

Herbal Tea: 5-7 minutes

Keep an eye on the clock to avoid over-steeping, which can lead to bitterness.

Conclusion

Buying tea online has revolutionized the way we discover and enjoy this beloved beverage. With access to an extensive selection, the ability to read reviews, and the convenience of delivery, tea enthusiasts can explore new flavors and blends with ease. By understanding the different types of tea, following our tips for purchasing, and mastering the brewing process, you can elevate your tea experience to new heights.

So, why wait? Dive into the world of online tea shopping and discover the delightful flavors that await you. With the right knowledge and resources, you’ll find the perfect cup of tea that suits your palate and enhances your daily routine.

FAQs

1. Is buying tea online safe?

Yes, purchasing tea online is safe if you buy from reputable retailers. Look for reviews and check the seller’s return policy.

2. How should I store my tea?

Store tea in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness and flavor.

3. Can I return tea if I don’t like it?

Many online retailers offer satisfaction guarantees, so check their return policy for specifics.

4. How long does tea stay fresh?

Tea is best consumed within a year of purchase for optimal flavor, although some types may last longer if stored correctly.

5. What is the best way to brew tea?

It depends on the type of tea you’re using. Follow the brewing instructions for each variety to achieve the best results.

By exploring the world of online tea shopping, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect blends to enjoy!

[teajteausa]

Discover the Benefits of Oolong Tea | Tea J Tea

Enjoy the rich taste and health benefits of Oolong Tea. Boost metabolism, promote heart health, and enhance mental clarity with every sip. Experience the perfect balance of flavor and wellness in this antioxidant-rich tea, ideal for daily rejuvenation.

[makaibari]

Discover the Best Darjeeling Tea: A Journey with Makaibari

Darjeeling tea, often referred to as the “Champagne of Teas,” is renowned worldwide for its exquisite flavor and unique aroma. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, the Darjeeling region produces some of the finest teas in the world. Among the distinguished brands, Makaibari stands out, offering a rich legacy of exceptional tea. In this blog, we will explore what makes Makaibari’s Darjeeling tea special, the allure of first flush Darjeeling tea, and the unique qualities of oolong tea.

The Essence of Darjeeling Tea Darjeeling tea is celebrated for its delicate flavor, floral aroma, and light, golden liquor. The unique climatic conditions, high altitude, and rich soil of the Darjeeling region contribute to its distinctive character. Makaibari, one of the oldest and most esteemed estates in Darjeeling, has been producing top-quality tea since 1859. The estate’s commitment to organic and sustainable farming practices ensures that every cup of Makaibari Darjeeling tea is not only delicious but also environmentally friendly.

Why Makaibari Produces the Best Darjeeling Tea Makaibari’s dedication to quality and sustainability sets it apart in the crowded world of tea. The estate’s teas are handpicked and carefully processed to preserve their natural flavors. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that Makaibari offers some of the best Darjeeling tea available. Whether you are a seasoned tea connoisseur or a newcomer, Makaibari’s Darjeeling tea promises an unparalleled tasting experience.

The Magic of First Flush Darjeeling Tea The term “first flush” refers to the first harvest of the year, typically taking place from late February to April. First flush Darjeeling tea is highly prized for its fresh, vibrant flavor and light, floral notes. Makaibari’s first flush Darjeeling tea captures the essence of spring, offering a delicate and refreshing brew that tea lovers eagerly anticipate each year. The tender leaves and buds are carefully plucked and processed to maintain their unique characteristics, making first flush Darjeeling tea a must-try for any tea enthusiast.

Exploring Oolong Tea from Darjeeling While Darjeeling is best known for its black tea, the region also produces some exceptional oolong tea. Oolong tea from Darjeeling combines the best qualities of both black and green tea, resulting in a complex and satisfying flavor profile. Makaibari’s oolong tea is a testament to the versatility and richness of Darjeeling teas. With its unique blend of floral, fruity, and earthy notes, Makaibari oolong tea offers a delightful and refreshing alternative to traditional Darjeeling black tea.

Health Benefits of Darjeeling Tea In addition to its exquisite flavor, Darjeeling tea offers numerous health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, Darjeeling tea can help boost the immune system, improve digestion, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The natural compounds in Darjeeling tea, including catechins and theaflavins, contribute to its health-promoting properties. Whether you choose first flush Darjeeling tea, oolong tea, or another variety, you can enjoy both the taste and the health benefits of Makaibari’s exceptional teas.

Conclusion Darjeeling tea is a treasure trove of flavors and aromas, and Makaibari’s offerings are among the finest in the world. From the vibrant freshness of first flush Darjeeling tea to the complex notes of oolong tea, Makaibari provides a rich and diverse tea-drinking experience. By choosing Makaibari, you not only savor the best Darjeeling tea but also support sustainable and organic farming practices. Embark on a journey with Makaibari and discover the unparalleled pleasure of Darjeeling tea.

[greenthestral]

Discover the Exquisite Flavors of Handmade Tea and Herbs from Nilgiris

Exploring the Rich Tea Culture of Nilgiris

The picturesque region of Nilgiris, nestled in the Western Ghats of southern India, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and lush greenery. But there's more to Nilgiris than meets the eye. This region is also home to a vibrant tea culture that produces some of the finest handmade teas and herbs in the world. Join us on a journey as we delve into the world of Nilgiri's exquisite flavors, craftsmanship, and the age-old tradition of tea-making.

The Perfect Climate and Soil for Tea Cultivation

Nilgiris, with its idyllic climate and rich soil, is truly a tea lover's paradise. The region's unique geographical features and environmental conditions create the perfect setting for cultivating exceptional tea. From its high altitude to its cool temperatures and abundant rainfall, Nilgiris offers an unparalleled environment that nurtures tea plants and bestows them with distinct flavors.

The altitude of Nilgiris plays a significant role in the quality of tea produced in the region. The tea estates are situated at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 meters above sea level. This high altitude not only provides a picturesque landscape but also contributes to the unique taste and character of the tea leaves. The elevation exposes the plants to cool mountain breezes and mists, resulting in slow growth and concentrated flavors.

The cool temperatures of Nilgiris further enhance the tea-growing conditions. The region experiences a moderate and pleasant climate throughout the year, with temperatures rarely exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. The cool weather helps the tea leaves develop slowly, allowing them to accumulate complex flavors and aromas. It also prevents the tea plants from becoming stressed, resulting in a smoother and more delicate taste in the final product.

Abundant rainfall is another crucial factor that contributes to the tea's exceptional quality in Nilgiris. The region receives substantial precipitation due to the influence of the southwest and northeast monsoons. The well-distributed rainfall ensures that the tea plants have a constant supply of moisture, promoting healthy growth and preventing drought stress. The combination of rainfall and high altitude also contributes to the unique terroir of Nilgiris, influencing the mineral content and pH levels of the soil, which in turn affects the flavors imparted to the tea leaves.

It is this exceptional terroir of Nilgiris that truly sets its teas apart. The mineral-rich soil, combined with the high altitude and cool climate, infuses the tea leaves with distinctive characteristics that captivate the senses. The unique flavors range from floral and fruity notes to hints of earthiness and a natural sweetness. Tea enthusiasts worldwide seek out Nilgiri teas for their nuanced taste profiles and the sense of place they encapsulate.

The flavor profiles of Nilgiri teas vary depending on the specific tea estate and the altitude at which the tea is grown. For example, teas grown at higher altitudes tend to have a lighter and more delicate taste, while those from lower altitudes may exhibit bolder and more robust flavors. The specific processing techniques employed by the skilled tea artisans further refine the flavors and bring out the best in each tea variety.

The distinctiveness of Nilgiri teas has not gone unnoticed in the global tea market. These teas have garnered recognition and appreciation from tea experts and enthusiasts worldwide. They are valued for their quality, complexity, and the harmonious balance of flavors they offer. Whether it's a fragrant and aromatic black tea, a refreshing green tea, or an intriguing oolong, Nilgiri teas are celebrated for their ability to provide a truly exceptional tea-drinking experience.

Nilgiris, with its optimal climate, fertile soil, and unique terroir, is a haven for tea cultivation. The high altitude, cool temperatures, and abundant rainfall create the perfect conditions for tea plants to flourish and develop exceptional flavors. The teas of Nilgiris are a testament to the region's natural beauty and the skill and dedication of its tea artisans. So, the next time you sip a cup of Nilgiri tea, savor the essence of this enchanting region, and allow yourself to be transported to the mist-covered hills of Nilgiris, where every sip is a celebration of nature's bountiful gifts.

Artisanal Tea-Making Techniques

What sets Nilgiri teas apart is the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into their production. Unlike large-scale tea plantations that rely on machinery, the tea farmers of Nilgiris employ traditional, labor-intensive methods to handcraft their teas.

The process begins with plucking the tender tea leaves, usually done in the early morning when the leaves are at their freshest. These leaves are carefully selected to ensure only the finest ones make it into the final product. The skilled hands of the tea artisans then roll and shape the leaves, releasing their natural oils and flavors.

After the rolling process, the leaves undergo oxidation, a crucial step that determines the tea's characteristics. This is followed by withering, a process that removes excess moisture from the leaves, further intensifying their flavors. Finally, the leaves are fired or roasted to halt the oxidation process, preserving the tea's unique taste.

An Abundance of Varieties

Nilgiri teas offer a remarkable range of flavors and aromas, catering to diverse palates. The region produces a spectrum of teas, including black, green, oolong, and white teas. Each type has its own distinct characteristics that reflect the nuances of Nilgiri's terroir.

Black teas from Nilgiris are known for their bright liquor, brisk flavors, and floral notes. They are often described as being well-rounded and refreshing, making them an excellent choice for both hot and iced teas.

Green teas, on the other hand, have a delicate and grassy flavor profile. They are minimally processed to retain their vibrant green color and natural antioxidants, making them a healthy and refreshing beverage choice.

Oolong teas from Nilgiris exhibit a perfect balance between the floral notes of black teas and the freshness of green teas. They undergo a partial oxidation process, resulting in a nuanced flavor profile that is both complex and captivating.

White teas, the most delicate of all, are made from young and unopened tea buds. They have a subtle and nuanced taste, often accompanied by a sweet and floral aroma. White teas are highly prized for their minimal processing and high levels of antioxidants.

The Magic of Nilgiri Herbs

In addition to its remarkable tea production, Nilgiris is also a treasure trove of herbs and botanicals. The region's pristine forests and fertile lands nurture a wide array of medicinal and aromatic plants that are used in traditional remedies and herbal infusions.

Nilgiri herbs, like the teas, are carefully handpicked and processed to retain their natural flavors and therapeutic properties. From soothing chamomile to invigorating lemongrass, these herbs offer a myriad of health benefits and make for delightful herbal teas. The aromatic blends of Nilgiri herbs can be enjoyed on their own or combined with Nilgiri teas to create unique and flavorful infusions.

Embracing Sustainability and Fair Trade

Nilgiris' tea industry is not just about taste and craftsmanship; it also places a strong emphasis on sustainability and fair trade practices. Many tea estates in the region prioritize organic cultivation methods, eschewing the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. This ensures that the teas and herbs from Nilgiris are not only flavorsome but also free from harmful chemicals.

Furthermore, the tea industry in Nilgiris has a significant social impact on the local communities. By supporting fair trade practices, tea estates provide fair wages and improved living conditions for the tea workers. This commitment to social responsibility adds another layer of richness to the tea experience, allowing consumers to enjoy their cup of tea with a clear conscience.

Savor the Essence of Nilgiris in Every Sip

As you sip a cup of Nilgiri tea or indulge in an herbal infusion, you're not just experiencing the flavors; you're immersing yourself in a rich cultural heritage. Nilgiri's handmade teas and herbs are a testament to the region's age-old tradition of tea-making and the dedication of its skilled artisans.

Whether you're a tea connoisseur seeking new and exciting flavors or someone looking to explore the world of artisanal teas, Nilgiris offers a captivating journey of tastes and aromas. So, brew yourself a cup of Nilgiri tea, close your eyes, and let the enchanting flavors transport you to the verdant hills of Nilgiris, where every sip is a celebration of nature's bounty.

[teaboot]

Y'know, despite having tea in your name, I can't find it you've said what your favorite kind of tea is.

If you don't mind, what are your top 3 teas that you'd say people should try?

Oh, like if you enjoy tea and want to try new stuff?

First off, tea (broadly speaking, for readers who aren't familiar) is made of leaves from the tea plant, and the TYPES of tea- White, green, oolong*, and black- just refer to different levels of oxidization. The darker the tea, the more oxidized it is, the higher the tannins are, more bitter it gets, the higher caffeine is.

That said:

First pick, London fog. The kind I like is the customary earl grey tea prepped with milk, sugar, vanilla, and lavender. Feels soft and cozy and lightly floral, but not in a perfume way- best I can describe it is drinking a warm blanket fresh out of the dryer.

Earl grey tea, btw, is a black tea flavored with bergamot oils. Bergamot is a sour-bitter citrus fruit. Oversteeped or scalded, Earl Grey can taste super nasty and bitter-flat, but I like mine steeped for about 3-4 minutes for a milder taste.

Second pick, Gunpowder green tea, chilled. I like mine steeped for about 2-3 minutes in a medium boil, remove the leaves and place in the fridge until cold. Gunpowder tea has more caffeine than most green teas and is very refreshing when iced, in my opinion. Has more of a kick to it than plain ice water, especially after hard exercise. No idea if that's healthy or not, I just like the taste.

Third, Lemon black tea boba with tapioca pearls. Because I know what I fuckin like. Sassy dance

Honorable mentions include Russian Caravan (reminds me of my grandma), Market Spice Rooibos Blend (reminds me of my mom), Chai, Mint Tisane, and Black Tea iced with sugar and lemon.

Enjoy!!

*Edit: I was thinking "warm plant drink with 'oo' in name that steeps red" and wrote Rooibos instead of Oolong in the original. Oolong comes from tea plants, Rooibos does not

[ohdearlingwhathappened]

A Pair Made in The Pits

Falling Behind Pt. 3- TFP Megatron x Reader

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3.5

A/n: Thank you all, once again for your patience and understanding on the time it took for this chapter's release. It was hard to find time to write between multiple ER visits and the passing of my dog, but I was finally able to finish it up! I hope you all enjoy, and I would love to hear your thoughts. WC: 7099

And thank you to @callsign-relic for allowing me to commission her beautiful work for my story's cover art! You always make amazing pieces!

Warnings: Torture, cursing, Starscream and Megatron being a dick, and deprecation. If I've missed anything, please let me know

Y/n wasn’t sure as to how one of the Autobots- probably Optimus- had returned her car to her driveway, but she wasn’t complaining. She did, however, inwardly groan over the fact she forgot to turn off her 6am alarm after all of yesterday’s excitement, especially after the awful sleep she had. Y/n’s mind kept her up all night, the voices of anxiety now practically screaming that something was wrong- that something wrong was done. And it wasn’t until she had finally gotten to sleep did it feel that seconds later her alarm was blaring in her ear. 

Getting up, against the wants of her body, Y/n slowly makes her way to her kitchen, debating whether or not she wants coffee or tea to start her morning. Looking in her fridge and seeing a lack of milk, the decision is easily made and she fills her kettle with water and begins preparing the steeper and getting the oolong out of the cabinet. However, before being able to take the first sip, the sound of the rumbling and then resounding hiss of a semi coming to a stop. Taking a look outside her living room window, there sits Optimus, waiting for Y/n to come outside, presumably to go back to the base.

“Shit.” Y/n groans, rubbing the bridge of her nose, wondering if the kids are also being ushered out of the house this early. 

Pouring her tea into a travel tumbler, Y/n scurries around her house to take a quick shower and get changed into a black blouse tucked into a midi, and finishing it off with a pair of booties. She applies some makeup and practically runs out the door, grabbing a random book on the way. 

“... Good morning, Optimus.” The passenger side door pops open and Y/n quickly climbs in and makes herself comfortable. The woman gives an airy laugh while fiddling with her hair, “I didn’t expect you so soon, I had to rush around to get ready.”

“Good morning, Y/n. I apologize- I did not mean to rush you, though it may be best to get back to the base sooner than later.” The cab hums with his response- even if Y/n hadn’t been inside, she was sure she would have felt the baritone vibrations nonetheless. 

The drive back was long and quiet, much like last night. Taking a sip of her tea, Y/n finally looks down at the book, and it takes all of her restraint not to spit it out onto his dashboard. What looks back up at Y/n is a sweaty, shirtless cowboy and the title ‘Ride into My Heart Like a Stallion’. A gag gift given to them by their friend half-way across the country, of which Y/n never intended to touch, let alone read. Y/n couldn’t help but truly consider the pros and cons on whether or not she could just chuck the book, but she knew it would drag up more questions if she just threw the book out the window, so she simply crossed her arms over it and hoped that no one would ask her about it throughout the day. 

“Y/n?”

Snapped out of her thoughts, Y/n looks over to the head unit of the dash, not entirely sure where to look before responding, “Sorry, it seems I was lost in my own thoughts.”

“I was asking if you needed to stop anywhere before heading back to base? We do not have much for humans at this moment.”

“Oh um, no, I’m alright. I have my tea and a book, and I’m sure the children will be able to keep themselves occupied as well. I’m not completely familiar with the boys, but Miko will most assuredly be fine; give that girl a pencil, paper, and something of interest, she’ll be kept busy for a while.” Y/n laughs to herself for a moment, though a worried expression passes over her face, “She’s a creative girl, but I worry about her being lonely. Her host parents aren’t used to her, and she doesn’t really have any friends at the school. I think, despite the rather strange circumstances, that perhaps being with you all may be good for her.”

“You seem to care for them well. Do you have sparklings of your own?’

“Sparkl- oh, Children? No no no. I don’t have any- um- sparklings. Closest thing I hope to get to that is Miko. I haven’t figured out my own grievances in this world, and it wouldn’t feel right to bring life into a world where your own quotemate may be a cruel joke.”

“A quotemate?”

Y/n takes a deep breath through her nose and casts her eyes to the ceiling of Optimus’ cab, trying to come up with a succinct explanation to the complex system that not even humanity has completely figured out, “Well, a quotemate is someone you are connected to. In the simplest of terms, your quotemate is the person who is supposed to protect, love, and stand beside you. And the way you find them is a quote that appears on one of your wrists- hence, ‘quotemate’. There’s a few more details, but that’s the gist of it.”

“We had a similar- but not very common- phenomenon on Cybertron, however, we call our fated ones ‘sparkmates’.”

“It’s a much prettier word than our species’. Why sparkmates?”

“Your kind call them hearts; we call it a Spark. It contains our life force and our memories. And in the case of the ones in which we are destined, they are our other half and thus hold the other half of our spark. Those of our kind who have a sparkmate were encouraged and expected to cherish and hold them dear.” Optimus’ cab is silent for a moment for a moment, “Though, after the start of the war, people began dreading hearing the words engraved on their frame, fearing their other half would be on the other side of the battlefield.”

“...Do you have a sparkmate, Optimus?” Another hum runs through the cab, before turning into the slightest chuckle.

“I do. He’s not the easiest mech to get along with, but I would never have made it as long as I have without him.” The bot’s facial feature may not be present, but Y/n can easily imagine the fond, endearing smile that would have otherwise found itself on the large mech’s lips. “I will be forever grateful for Ratchet’s undying support.”

“Ratchet?!” Once the statement sets in, Y/n’s head whips from the ceiling of the cab to the center dashboard at the revelation.

“You sound surprised.”

“Well, I haven’t spent much time around Ratchet, but he’s not the most- how do I put this- welcoming?”

“I will admit Ratchet is wary about the involvement of you and the children, but he will not cause you harm.”

“OH! Oh no- I- I didn’t mean to- to imply that he- I know Ratchet wouldn’t hurt the children! He just visibly doesn’t seem to like us.” Waving her hands in denial, Y/n scrambles to fix the miswording of her statement, but it doesn’t seem Optimus was too worried about the misunderstanding.

“Give Ratchet time, he will adjust. I have no doubt you both will get along with time.”

“You’re right- after all, we all will be spending much more time with each other. I look forward to getting to know all of you.” She smiles, glad to know Optimus, and likely the rest of them will take good care of the kids and herself. Maybe she would be able to pick Ratchet’s mind at some point for information about the anatomy or history of the Cybertron people.

*       *       *       *       *       *

“WHAT WAS THAT?!” This is not what the young woman had hoped would be, quite literally, crawling around the base, but she couldn’t peel her eyes away from the thing that Ratchet had just squashed, “I hope to hell and back that is not what you people consider some kind of bug!”

“No, Y/n. I’m afraid this may be the effects of dark energon.” Though Optimus’ voice is normally quite dark, Y/n could easily pick up on the deep worry that whatever this ‘dark energon’ brings, means nothing good will come of its arrival in the base. “ Seeing as it has some of the residue Arcee found on Cliffjumper, it would stand to reason that it was what brought both your equipment to life and Cliffjumper back from the dead.”

“It would answer the question as to why Cliffjumper’s life signal came back online, but dark energon, Optimus? It’s such a scarce material- it’s virtually nonexistent. Why would it be on this rubbish planet?”

“May I interject?” Both bots turn their attention to the woman they had evidently forgotten was there- one much more open to the interruption than the other. “Um- may I ask what energon is? I thought you said your people’s Allspark was made of it, so why would it attack Ratchet? ”

At the question, Ratchet scoffs and begins running diagnostics on the squished piece of equipment that previously housed some of this energon stuff. His blatant display of annoyance was no less irritating than it was yesterday, but not only did Y/n not want to start some sort of argument with Optimus’ sparkmate, it also wouldn’t get them anywhere, so she would refrain from mouthing off to the condescending mech. At some point, she was going to have to have a one on one conversation with Ratchet about speech behavior and ways to go about explaining things without making the rest of the room feel as if they’re a massive inconvenience, but now was not the time- no matter how tempting it was to tell him to shove his opinions up his tailpipe. 

“Energon is the lifesource of our people. Dark energon is something that can give life-” Optimus gestures towards the mangled metal, “- but the cost is great. Not much is known about it, as Ratchet stated- dark energon is a rare commodity, but it is not something to underestimate, hence why I believe Megatron is the reason why it has found its way to this planet’s surface.”

Both Y/n and Ratchet look at Optimus, almost in synch, “But why?”

“To conquer this planet by raising an army of the undead.”

“Where would he find that many Cybertronian dead, Optimus? It’s not like Megatron is going to just stumble on a burial ground on this planet.” At least the sass Ratchet displays isn’t always just directed at any human- his leader isn’t even exempt from the proverbial lashings of the team’s medic, though Y/n supposes that may have something to do with them being connected.

Before Optimus could answer, his thoughts are interrupted by the sounds of the rest of the Autobots’ alt-modes. Upon stopping, each kid hops out of their respective guardian, having obviously come from some kind of fun. Looking at her phone, Y/n realizes that it's still a little early in the day, so she is a tad surprised they woke up this early on a Saturday, but she’s glad to see all of them having fun and maybe even bonding with their new companions. Seeing Bulkhead awkwardly handing Miko her electric guitar, she already has a feeling the girl will be putting on at least one show while they are at the base, knowing the acoustics are much too tempting for the girl to not play at least one song. 

“Autobots, remain here. Ratchet and I will be outside of communications range for some time, so I’m putting you in charge.” Optimus give his orders 

“Optimus, with all due respect, playing bodyguard is one thing, babysitting is another.” The sight of Jack scoffing and rolling his eyes at her wording is easy to see- any kid his age wouldn’t like the idea of being babysat, even if it was by an alien robot. The femme crosses her arms before gesturing towards the medic, “Besides, Ratchet hasn’t been in the field since the war.”

“My pistons may be rusty, but my hearing is as sharp as ever!” Ratchet’s call from his computer forces a laugh barely covered by a cough from Y/n, which she quickly mouths a ‘sorry’ when he shoots her a look. 

“For the moment, it is only reconnaissance.” Optimus tries to assure the smaller bot, but both Arcee and Y/n could smell the bullshit from a mile away.

“Then why do I hear an edge in your voice?” 

At her continued questioning, Optimus pauses and furrows his brows, “Arcee, much has changed in the past 24 hours. We must all learn to adapt.” Before she could get another word out, he turns to Ratchet, “Ratchet, bridge us out.”

And with just a few steps, they were gone.

“Okay chief, so, uh, what’s on the activity list?” Jack looks up to his mechanical guardian only to be met with a scowl.

“If I’m not mistaken, Jack, you should have some schoolwork to do. Why don’t we give them a break from whatever activities they treated you to this morning?” Y/n smiles at the kids, trying to give the Autobots a needed time off from their newly appointed roles as guardians. “Miko, you can practice some of your guitar and then start on some of your work, and Raf, I’m not sure of your schoolwork load, but I suggest you start on any work you may have.”

“Yes ma’am.” All three kids say, some more begrudgingly than others, all while setting up for whatever they are to get done.

“Good, I’m going on Patrol. Bee, you’re with me.” Arcee makes her way to the tunnel, ready to go out.

“But Optimus told us to stay here.” Bulkhead brought up the leader’s orders before almost immediately being shot down. 

“When Optimus puts you in charge, you can call the shots.” With that, both Arcee and Bee transform and are down in the tunnel in seconds, leaving the kids, Y/n, and Bulkhead left.

“So, uh, what’s on the activities list?” Bulk turns, seeing Miko plugging in her guitar to the amp, the feedback forcing everyone to cover their ears.

“Band practice, anyone?” After a moment of silence, she turns to the younger boy, “Come on, Raf. You play anything?”

“Um… Keyboard?”

“Laptop and samples-”

Y/n smiles and shakes her head, glad to see the kids are getting along before opening her book and tea thermos, taking a seat near Ratchet’s computer stand so as to not get in the kids’ way. She never planned on reading this kookie book her friend sent her, but it was either the book or be subjected to joining Miko’s makeshift band after an already hectic week.

“Y/n, are you joining?”

“Nah, I’m good with just listening, Miko. You know I prefer listening to you play.” Shooting the girl a smile and thumbs up, she returns to the downright awful writing of this cowboy love story. Y/n has to go to the bookstore at some point to send an equally bad book. Maybe a silly alien romance book- forbidden love. They’ll be rolling on the floor at the concept. 

As the woman chuckles to herself, the familiar green lights from yesterday start blaring, letting them know Agent Fowler had returned. Bulkhead rushed the kids to hide behind his pedes and Y/n didn’t want to risk being seen running over, so she kept her spot under Ratchet’s computer and motioned to the kids to stay quiet just as the elevator door opened.

“Prime? Prime!” Y/n couldn’t see the man, but she could tell that he must still be on the platform, since she could no longer hear his footsteps. Just like yesterday, he did not sound happy.

“Agent Fowler, uh, he’s not here. Nobody’s here! … except me, of course.” The green bot chuckles awkwardly, and Y/n silently groans- this mech is going to get them all caught if his nerves take over. 

“Well, where is he? Wait, let me guess-” as Fowler rants and raves he must have started to move because Bulkhead begins taking steps to keep the kids out of sight. However, his movements and the cable to Miko’s guitar don’t seem to be mixing well, from the way Y/n sees Miko nearly fall, only for the boys to catch her. But the slight fall was enough for the guitar to send sound through the amp, she just hopes that it wasn’t enough to break the man from his tirade.

“Since when are you bots electric?” Fowler questions and Y/n is pleading for whatever deity that may be listening to grant Bulkhead the ability to come up with some kind of lie, but the kids beat him to it.

“Hi. We’re… interns! Earning extra credit in auto shop.” Jack awkwardly smiles, hoping his lie is bought.

“Alright. Let’s move. I’m taking all three of you into federal custody.” Hearing his footfalls on the metal stairs, Y/n makes her way over, picking up a piece of the squashed robot from earlier that Ratchet must have missed. 

“Over my dead body.” She holds up the metal piece like a makeshift bat, more than ready to take a swing.

“Woah there. By the stripes of Uncle Sam’s shorts, ma’am, put the weapon down. I’m just going to take you and these kids to-” Taking a step back, Agent Fowler puts his hands up to show he didn’t mean any harm, only to be cut off by the woman again.

“Nowhere. You are taking these kids nowhere. Optimus has promised protection for these kids and like hell will I allow some random ass man, trusted government agent or not, to touch a hair on these kids’ heads, let alone take them anywhere.” Y/n takes a look behind her, and in seeing the kids looking between Y/n and Fowler apprehensively, she drops the metal to her side, not letting go in case something goes awry, “… I will go with you, if it will get you to leave.”

“What?!” Miko shrieks, coming to hold onto the sleeve of Y/n’s blouse, making her briefly glance back before bringing her attention back to Agent Fowler, ”You can’t go with him! He-”

“Bulkhead, get Miko.”

“Uh I don’t-”

“Get her now, Bulkhead. She is your ward, act like it.” She shoots the metal giant a glare, watching as he finally picks the girl up, not that she went peacefully.

“No! Put me down, Bulk!” Miko thrashes in his hold as Y/n walks towards Fowler.

“Let’s go have a conversation with whomever your boss is, shall we? I’m sure I can convince them that leaving these children in Optimus’ care is the best course of action.” She grins at the man as she passes him on the way to the elevator, a grin that holds a level of malice that makes Fowler nearly let the woman just stay instead of getting in the confined space of his helicopter.

But only nearly.

“And I know that my superiors will have all of you in custody.” He grabs her elbow and finishes leading her up the steps and into the elevator. Both adults could hear Miko screeching in Bulk’s grasp, threats and complaints that turned to pleading the closer Y/n got to that elevator. Y/n didn’t say anything. She didn’t look back. But with every step she took, her heart squeezed with each scream from the girl. It isn’t until they get onto the elevator and the doors close that the tension from her shoulders ease and the breath escapes her. 

“Is that so? I’d say if your superiors are as weak-willed as you, I’ll be back before it’s time for the kids to be back home.” She doesn’t bother looking over at the man, not even as he mumbles something about respect and ‘women and alien robots being the problem with his blood pressure’. 

Before long, the elevator comes to a creaky stop and the doors open to reveal the orange hue of the rock the base is hidden under and a view that, under different circumstances, would be quite gorgeous, especially with the breeze taking away from the baking early fall sun. A few feet away lies the helicopter Agent Fowler presumably arrived in earlier. The reality of the past ten minutes was setting in with each step they took towards the vehicle and while Y/n absolutely would have stood up for those kids again in a heartbeat, maybe she wouldn’t have given herself as collateral quite as quickly. 

“Get comfortable, it’s gonna be a long 5 hour flight.” Tired of his hold on her arm, Y/n pulls herself away before scrambling up into the body of the helicopter, grimacing at her lack of grace. 

“I don’t suppose you’ll be providing in-flight snacks. After all, you seem to have such star spangled hosting skills.” She adjusts herself in the passenger seat, and never in her wildest days would she ever thought she would hope and pray for a vehicle to turn into a giant robot and prevent her from being sent to a government facility, but here she sits- hoping for just that.

“Are you going to be pushing my buttons this entire flight, or will I have an ounce of peace on the way to the Pentagon?” Fowler pulls himself up, lacking his own grace and nearly falling face first into his seat, forcing a snort to come from Y/n.

“Well, you’re more than welcome to send me back to the base.” The suggestion brings out a laugh of Fowler’s own, no other answer needed nor given. Starting up the chopper, he glances over to ensure the straps were done properly before handing a set of headphones to Y/n, before the sound of the blades becomes too loud.

Finally, the vehicle lifts off the ground and the flight to Washington D.C. begins, making Y/n wonder if she could properly time being over one of the larger ‘islands’ of sandstone littering the Nevada desert to jump out of the copter, but deigns it too risky to attempt. While she’s turning over possible solutions in her head, Fowler rings his boss, “Sir, Agent Fowler. We have a situation. I’m en route from the autobot base. I’ll brief you in person.”

Choosing to save her breath, Y/n continues looking out the window of her side of the vehicle, noting the sun ebbing its way closer to being at its highest point. That was one thing she hated about this area, while she found the landscape to be gorgeous, it quickly became boring seeing the exact same hues of orange, yellow, brown, and the occasional reds. It couldn’t have been more than fifteen minutes after Fowler informed his boss of his location that the sonar built into the dashboard started beeping with an icon flashing on the screen, getting closer to the center of the sonar’s radius. 

“I am begging you to tell me that is either a big bird or a friend.”

“What in Uncle Sam’s beard-” Looking up from the dashboard, Y/n sees some kind of drone flying right at them and lets out a shout, pushing the steering gear to the side with her foot before the thing coming their way. Luckily, Fowler snaps out of his shock quickly enough to grab the steering before the both of you could go crashing into the canyon side. 

“Watch it!” 

“You watch the fucking drone!” And as if her luck wasn't bad enough, in the next moment, the helicopter jostles, claws of whatever had attacked them now sinking into the roof of the helicopter's cab. Moving in her seat, Y/n looks up to the ceiling and shrieks upon seeing the sharp talons that easily make up the length of her face stuck in the metal above her, forcing the agent to cover his ears. 

With a harsh yank from above, the copter jerks in response and the last thing Y/n remembers is the feeling of the cold, hard glass making a sharp impact with the back of her head, before everything went dark.

*       *       *       *       *       *

The feeling of weightlessness while simultaneously feeling as if something is pulling you down by your ankles is something Y/n can confidently say she's never felt before. That sensation accompanied by the frigid air around her and the pain of having her arms being held twisted uncomfortably in the air made her transition back to consciousness that much more unpleasant. Tension and pain racks her body every step closer she gets to being awake, drawing out a strained hiss from the woman.

“Ooh? Look who's finally decided to join the party.” A scratchy voice drawls from a few feet to her left. Opening her eyes, Y/n is met with two bright, red eyes made all the more piercing with the bot's white dots that must act as pupils. Despite the strain on her throat and body, she lets out an ear-shattering scream and kicks the new mech.

“Ach! Why you little-”

��Where am I?! Who the fuck are you?! Let me down!” Paying little mind to the irritated figure before her, she struggles in her chains, squirming and shaking.

“Awwww the little human wants to be let go?” A sharp talon pricks Y/n's chin and lifts it to bring her eyes back to his, the grin on his face a celebration of his premature victory.

“Yes! Please!”

“How polite. Such a rarity in humans.” He chuckles to himself, obviously thinking his little stab to be funny. “All you have to tell me, dear, is where the Autobot base is. Can you do that for me?”

“Don't tell him anything!” Finally, Fowler speaks up from Y/n's left, shocking her into whipping her head to face him, not having even noticed his presence prior to him yelling.

A silence fills the cold, dark room and Y/n looks back to the mech before her, a desperate look in her eyes, “I'm sorry, what's an autobot?”

The mech wrenches back, his grin twisting into an infuriated scowl. Standing to his full height, he wraps the chains that hold her around his hand and pulls them up and towards him, further twisting her arms until a sickening pop echoes in the room, forcing a scream to rip from her throat. Any kindness, faux or no, had vanished as the bot before her snarls, “What do you mean, you don’t know?!”

Y/n’s breathing is shallow and panicked, the burning sensation surging down her arm and through her shoulder causing her to squeeze shut her eyes. Luckily, it was only her right arm, but there was no time to appreciate that. After a moment, she opens her eyes to see the now-blurry mech leaned down in front of her through the tears building and streaming down her face, she hiccups, “I’m sorry! I don’t know what you’re talking about, I swear!”

“Fine. If you’re going to play like this, I have no choice but to escalate matters.” He brings himself back up to his full height and turns to another bot who presumably is standing guard at the door. “Bring the prod.”

Prod?! If struggling in her chains wouldn’t exasperate her dislocated shoulder, Y/n would be moving every which way in order to find some way to get out of this nightmarish shitshow.

“Please, sir. I don’t know anything about any Auto people! I was picked up by this man after getting lost in the desert.” Tears beginning to subside, Y/n glances at Fowler and then back to Starscream, “I’m sure you’re a reasonable… robot-”

“I am not one of your feeble human machines, I am Starscream! Current second-in-command and future leader of the Decepticons!” The door opens, letting more cold, stale air into the room, and the bot from earlier reenters the room, holding what can only be described as some futuristic bident. Starscream snatches the device from the other Decepticon, “Finally, what took you so long?!”

“I’ll be nice and give you one more opportunity, humans- where is the Autobot base?” Switching his tactics to address Fowler, he leans down to the man and holds the prod up to his chin.

“Sure thing,buddy, right after you eat my star-spangled shorts.” Fowler laughs but is quickly cut short as Starscream activates his prod, a pink electrical current running between the two prongs. Upon pressing it to Agent Fowler’s ribs, the man screams in pain, clutching his own chains in an attempt to ground himself.

“No!”

“As I imagined, energon and human nervous systems don’t mix.” As he keeps the energon-infused prod pressed to Fowler’s skin, his grin only grows. With each press of the instrument, the clothes begin to sear away, allowing the energon access to his bare skin, no doubt doing further damage, if the smell of burning skin is anything to go by.

“Starscream, leave him alone! Please!” Voices in her head plead with her to keep her mouth shut, to no avail. The man is suffering, and while Y/n wasn’t exactly Fowler’s biggest fan for taking her away from the Autobot base, she didn’t want to see the poor man suffer.

And he stops, but only for a moment. The humming of the torture device and the heavy gulps of air Fowler sucks into his lungs at the brief interlude fill the otherwise silent room. Starscream’s eyes flick back and forth, not really focusing on anything. After another moment, he gives a thoughtful hum of his own, “Perhaps you’re right. I may have been going about this all along.”

“Yes! I’m glad you-”

“If what you say is true, that means you’re an innocent human. And what a shame it would be if a, what do you humans call them- “protector of the people” was to allow a civilian to face such methods of… interrogation.” And without another moment’s pause, knives felt as if they were entering Y/n’s bloodstream from where Starscream jabs her, ripping yet another agonizing scream from her throat. 

“Stop it, con! She has nothing to do with any of this.” Fowler barks, jostling his chain to attempt to wriggle out of his constraints.

“Precisely. The faster you tell me where the Autobots are hiding, the sooner I stop hurting our friend here.” Driving the point home he jams the prod back into Y/n’s ribcage, releasing another scream from the woman. Similar to when Fowler was receiving the same “Decepticon hospitality” Y/n’s clothes began to singe away. Fighting the desire to keep her eyes closed, she struggles to look at Fowler and give him the briefest of shaking her head, before letting it hang down, the weight of her own head too much to keep up.

I am not doing this just for you to give it away, Fowler. Don’t fuck this up.

She knew she couldn’t say anything that may give her away, so the hope is that her fellow prisoner could understand to keep his mouth shut, even if she is to suffer for it. The next jolt was to her right arm, as if that arm hadn’t already been pulled from its socket, just at the crook of her elbow. To drive home the fact that he didn’t plan on letting up, Starscream dug the prod in harder against her skin, drawing blood to the surface. He finally retracts the weapon and holds Y/n’s head up with a dagger-like finger on each cheek, turning her to fully face Fowler, not that she could see him very clearly, “Come now, Agent Fowler. I don’t think our friend has much more in her. Haven’t you realized the Autobots have abandoned you? I am the only one you can rely upon now. So, tell me what I want to know, or we’ll see how many more she can take.”

“Please… no more. I’ll tell you,” Fowler breaks eye contact with Y/n, ashamed to give up after she’s done so much to keep quiet. He couldn’t keep sitting back, letting her take the brunt of Starscream’s sadism anymore. It takes so much strength for him to muster the words, “They’re in… secret government base.”

“Fowler… no.”

“Go on.”

Shots being fired were audible from beyond the door across the room. And unless Decepticons practiced their aim in the empty hallways Y/n briefly saw, that means the opposition was aboard. 

That means the Autobots had come to save them. 

“You were saying?” Having also heard the commotion outside, Starscream becomes more antsy, and it shows.

“In the old steel mill… or was it under that carnival funhouse?”

Finally fed up with the disrespect and sass, Starscream frustratedly yells and stabs the prod back into Y/n, the intensity of the voltage much higher than it had been earlier. The shots were louder now, being heard even over Y/n’s screeches. If Fowler wasn’t halfway into unconsciousness, he would have tried to distract the mech as much as he could, but he couldn’t think past staying awake and alive. 

“I’ve had enough of this.” Starscream begins unraveling Y/n from her chains, not trusting the others to keep the Autobots at bay, let alone defeating them. He may not leave this moment the victor, but like hell is he going to lose both hostages. Y/n doesn’t have the strength to fight back after all that had been done, barely even registering that not only is she free from her chains, but she’s also haphazardly being shoved into a cockpit and losing consciousness for the second time that day.

The door to the room opens a moment later, a silent Vehicon just stands in the entryway.

“Well?” He asks, patience draining with every passing second, quickly turning to shock when the Vehicon’s frame drops and both Bulkhead and Bumblebee are poised for blasting whatever stands in the room, immediately shooting the other Vehicon with Starscream. Aiming his arm towards Fowler, Starscream glowers at the interrupting bots, “Not so fast-”

“I wouldn’t.” Arcee taps him from above, having snuck her way in through the ventilation shaft. 

“Oh, but I might.” 

“Where’s Y/n?” Bulkhead keeps his blaster aimed towards Starscream, but with a brief glance around it’s easy to see there is no other organic life, other than Fowler- only chains that now hang empty.

“The other human? She said she didn’t know you, so we… parted ways.”

“NO!” Bulkhead shouts and immediately begins shooting, prompting the other to take fire as well. Starscream can only jump from side to side in order to avoid their gunfire. 

“Apologies, Autobots, but I’m sure you can find her body down below somewhere.” He cackles as he transforms into his alt-mode, and races out of the room, knocking Arcee from the vent and Bulk and Bee into the ground. 

* * * * * *

Y/n wakes up in another dark space- only this time it’s much smaller and warmer; there’s a sway to the room, if you can call it that, but she isn’t sure if the sway is from the nausea overcoming her or if wherever she is is actually moving. The last thing she remembers is a final shock to her body before passing out. Eyes adjusting to the light, it’s easy to determine the surrounding space is the inside of some kind of jet, but instead of the cockpit being parallel to the ground, it’s upturned, like the aircraft would be facing the sky. She was in a Cybertronian- likely Starscream, if the color scheme is anything to go by.

Pressing her hands to the ground, Y/n is quickly reminded of the fact that Starscream had ripped her right arm out of its socket. Looking down, she notices her clothes are burnt and ripped beyond repair- her blouse now adorned with asymmetrical, distressed sleeves that barely go past her elbows and the skirt being a shredded mess, likely from rough handling of Starscream’s razor sharp talons; Taking her foot and stepping on the pathetic scraps of fabric of her skirt, Y/n uses her functional hand and rips a handful of the fabric strips away. Y/n balls the cloths up and puts it in between her teeth as a makeshift mouth guard. The limb now felt numb, but she knows that popping it back in is going to burn; her left hand grasps the right arm’s bicep.

Deep breaths. Deep Breaths, Y/n.

And with an upwards jerk, she feels a brief click in her shoulder, but the limb doesn’t doesn’t stay in place, forcing a deep inhale through her gag.

Relax. You’re not going to be able to reset it if you don’t fucking relax. You just survive until Optimus gets you.

After another few deep breaths, Y/n tries it again and feels a more solid click as she screams, muffled by the burnt fabric in her mouth; letting go, her arm stays in place, though a reignited burn returns to the site of the wound. With her arm taken care of, getting out of this wretched place is next on the to do list. Banging a hand on the glass enclosing her in this dreadful mech’s cockpit, the needles in her throat become even more pronounced as she groans, ”Let me out.”

Nothing changes. His steps are still steady.

“Let me out!”

Again, nothing.

“STAR-”

“STARSCREAM, YOU INCOMPETENT FOOL! I ORDERED YOU TO AWAIT MY COMMAND!”

Upon hearing such a loud fury, Y/n immediately seeks out the most stable part of Starscream’s cockpit and hunkers down. If she has learned anything, it’s that these Decepticons generally deal with disputes through violence, and she doesn’t believe that stops within their own ranks.

“Please, Lord Megatron, I meant no- AGH!” and just like that, Starscream, and Y/n transitively, fly across the room at Megatron’s hand. And though Y/n can’t see him, it did not sound like it took much physical exertion for him to do so. 

“Instead, your mindless agenda resulted in the disabling of my ship and the delay of MY PLANS!” Megatron raises his hand again, more than ready to strike Starscream again.

“My intentions were pure, master. I only wanted you to be rid of Optimus.” Y/n’s world tilts as Megatron brings his foot against Starscream’s head, smashing it into the ground and allowing sparks to fly; she grunts at being thrown from her “safe space” and rolls onto the glass under her that begins cracking under the pressure of Megatron’s foot. She hates crying, but after the third time death threatens to barrel down your door, the stress begins to cap off, and so the weeping begins.

“NO ONE RIDS ME OF OPTIMUS PRIME BUT ME! DO YOU UNDERSTAND? DO-” The sound of Y/n’s wailing, though faint to Megatron’s audials, catches his attention. Lifting Starscream above himself by his throat and turning him enough to get a glimpse into his cockpit, making perfect eye contact with Y/n. Slowly turning Starscream back to face him, Megatron tightens his grasp around his throat and hisses, “Starscream… explain yourself.”

“My lord, She is a friend of the Autobots! I took her as a hostage so we can extract information!” His voice comes out staticy, a sign Megatron may be doing more damage than he should as he continues constricting his grip. 

“You are as stupid as you are a disgrace to the Decepticons. Bring the human out.” Megatron growls his command and releases his throat, sending his second-in-command scrambling to retrieve Y/n, who in turn dodges each grab at her body, thanking the fates for making his cockpit on his back while bi-pedal.

“Stop moving, you-”

“Keep the fuck away from me! I already told you, I don’t know what the fuck you’re talking about, you walking scrapyard, and me speaking to your troglodyte of a boss isn’t going to change that!” Unfortunately, there’s only so many places for Y/n to run to, and her Yakety sax impression comes to a close when he manages to snag a part of her skirt. Bringing her out on the palm of his hand whilst using his thumb to press her to lie flat on her stomach, he presents her to his master while scowling down at her.

“Why you insolent little-”

“You are wasting my time, Starscream! Is she telling the truth- have you really learned nothing from your own hostage?! Not only have you wasted our resources with your stunt, but you have given the Autobots a reason to storm this ship!”

“No, my liege! They won’t come here to find her- they believe her to be dead.” Starscream allows a shaky smile to creep its way onto his lips, hoping to at least somewhat appease the brute in front of him. Processing what he’s just said, Y/n stops trying to move her way from under the mech’s thumb.

They think I’m dead.

“And what does that leave us with? A soft, useless human who can’t even escape the confines of your servos, let alone provide any kind of productivity for our cause.

No one is coming to save me.

The image of Megatron’s face moving to be right in front of her entire body snaps Y/n out of her spiraling thoughts of lost hope, the heat and humidity coming from his mouth breezes against her, forcing goosebumps to crawl along her arms. The mechanical giant looks her person up and down, then scoffs,

“Worthless scrap.”

The woman bristles as he begins to make his way towards one of the room’s doors. Having noticed Starscream loosening his hold on her back, Y/n stands and snarls at the back of Megatron, “I’m sure you know all about being worthless, wouldn’t you.”

His heavy foot slams to the floor midstep, once relaxed stature stiffened as he slowly turns back towards Y/n and Starscream, in which the latter panickedly looks between the girl in his hand and the mech who has killed other Cybertronians for less. Megatron turns his attention to another mech Y/n had not previously noticed who is practically hidden in the lack of light on this ship- of whom looks back to Megatron. The two stare at one another, as if speaking with each other telepathically.

“Starscream, take that… thing to Knockout for examination.”

Taglist: @the-unhinged-raccoon @hystericalanarchy @mythicallystupid @darkfangx399 @nixblizzard16 @crowleysthings @delectableworm

Let me know if you would like to be added to the list!

[cumikering]

Masterlist

Oi, it’s Cin. My heart is mostly filled with Brian Bloom and boba.

☁️ fluff | ♠️ angst | 🩷 smut | 🌈 doodle

Alex Keller

Cherry Lollipop

Your date was interrupted ☁️ Alex was a morning person 🩷 How you met Alex ☁️ You could get used to this ☁️🩷🌈

Comforting his plus-sized partner ☁️

Rescuing a mermaid ☁️

David 'Hesh' Walker

Loaded hashbrowns ☁️

Johnny ‘Soap’ Mactavish

Possessive best friend Soap:

Operation sabotage ♠️ Prequel ☁️🌈 Beyond friends ☁️🌈 Sorry ♠️ Be kind ♠️☁️🌈

A Year after MW3 ♠️

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Line art CK

John Price

Ex boyfriend Price:

Back in Liverpool ♠️ Your closure ☁️🩷🌈

Formula One Price

John raced for McLaren ☁️ Three weeks apart ☁️🌈 Are you a bear? ☁️🌈 Blueberry pancakes ☁️🌈 JP's usual order ♠️ From each city ♠️ Champagne-soaked ☁️

If you're looking for a sign ♠️

Keegan P. Russ

Meeting childhood friend Keegan on Tinder ☁️

Fake dating neighbour Keegan on Christmas ☁️

Werewolf Keegan:

The stiffest neck known to man ☁️ The dogsitter ☁️🌈 The fighter ☁️🌈 The industrial-sized lint roller ☁️🌈 The glorified yoga mat ☁️🌈 The terrible secret ♠️ The common denominator ♠️ The scar we share ♠️ The two wolves (and a half) ☁️🌈

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Kyle ‘Gaz’ Garrick

Comforting you after a breakup ☁️

Stuck in a lift with uni student Gaz ☁️

In a 90s college band ☁️

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König

Meeting ex bf König after three years ♠️

Nick Reyes

How Infinite Warfare should have ended ♠️☁️🌈

Phillip Graves

He wanted one thing, but told you another ♠️

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Rodolfo ‘Rudy’ Parra

Meeting your BFF’s older brother ☁️🌈

Simon 'Ghost' Riley

Neighbour Simon:

English Breakfast ☁️ Oolong ☁️ Earl Grey ☁️ Jasmine ☁️ Ceylon ♠️ Pu Erh ♠️ Darjeeling ♠️ Camomile ☁️ Line art

Ghost gave you a piggyback ride ☁️

Ghost's online fantasies came true ☁️

Underground fighter Ghost 🩷

Memes

[koisuko]

Could you do one with MK1 Kuai Liang and female reader going skinny dipping together?

Tw: fem reader, mdni, nudity, somewhat established relationship, no use of y/n, only nudity nothing else really

Time and time again, dates with Kuai Liang consisted of more traditional ideas. Walks on the trails of the forest, watching the sunset above the horizon, or having tea in the floral gardens. It was all very sweet, but you desperately craved adventure - something often overlooked by a traditional man such as him. You thought about the idea of a hike, or maybe a horse ride, but even those sounded too bland. Then the idea of skinny dipping came to your mind. It was perfect, you thought, both out of your comfort zone and intimate. You remember seeing hot springs on one of your strolls through the woods, perfect this time of year.

Was it a good idea? Sure, in your mind it was, the problem was getting Kuai on board with it. “Can he even swim?” You muttered, your hands busying themselves with bags of oolong tea. Your plan was to soothe his mood with the hot beverage, then bring up the date one way or another. The worst that could happen is a no, in which there’s always other things to bring up, yet you still felt nervous about his potential reaction.

Right on cue, Kuai glides through the doorway of the temple’s kitchen, his skin glistening with the sweat of training with new students. He makes his way straight to you, gingerly wrapping his arms around your waist from behind and resting his head on your shoulder. With a sigh, he nuzzles his head further into the crook of your neck. “I missed you today, my flame,” he whispered, his voice muffled by his lips on your skin. “Me too, love,” just as he released you, you turned around with the tray of tea, “I thought we could have some tea together.”

The steaming liquid seared your lips, hissing in response and giggling at your mistake. Kuai knows you, maybe too well. He knows when there is something on your mind. You seemed away, your eyes vacant and deep in thought. A hand on yours broke you away from your gaze with the tea cup, “is something troubling you?” Concern was written on his features, with a hint of curiosity in his eyes. It’s now or never, you thought. “I’m fine, I just..” you paused for a moment, contemplating how to word it the best way without completely embarrassing yourself. A blush began forming on your cheeks before you finally spoke, “would you like to um..go swimming tonight at the hot springs?” You may have left out the nude part, but that’s not a big detail..right? “Sounds relaxing, I would love to.”

It was beautiful, the moonlight bouncing off the ripples on the surface of the hot springs. A blanket of condensation settled just over the surrounding area, creating a warm atmosphere to contrast the chill of the night air. Crickets chirped, and distant owls sang their songs, a backdrop to a romantic night. The two of you settled on a nearby rock, overlooking the scene just as you both arrived. Kuai Liang seemed to busy himself with admiring the view of the stars above. With that, you took the opportunity to undress - completely, and slink into the warmth of the water. You tentatively reached out a hand towards him, praying he didn’t see the slight shiver of nervousness in your gesture.

To your surprise, he obliged rather quickly. Within a few minutes, he was beside you, his muscle relaxing under the heat. You had a clear view of his entire body beneath the water. It was a glorious sight, so much so you could see stars already. The droplets trickled down his perfectly sculpted arms, cascading down the contours of his biceps and broad shoulders. The pristine beads seemed to trace the carvings of his scars, and hug the lines of the tattoo you adore. Eventually, your eyes trailed up to meet his deep brown pools already looking at you. His gaze mirrored your own, admiring the way the water cupped your breasts, and watching the droplets with jealousy as they kiss places he wishes his lips were.

Beneath the canvas of stars, the two of you sat in silence for only moments, yet it felt like an eternity, taking in every detail of one another. Before finally, you two inch closer. He placed a gentle hand on your cheek, caressing the soft skin before dipping down to capture your lips in his. Passion in the beauty of nature, the time and place all but forgotten.

[backyardbrew1]

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