#dadimus prime moment

[squidthesquidd]

do cliff, bee, or arcee (or any other younger autobots) ever use 'baby privilege' to get away with stuff? (Little stuff like extra snacks)

yeah i think so

[tinydefector]

IRON GIANT 2

Optimus prime x human

Warnings: none.

Word count: 2.3k

Is this becoming one of my favourite pieces? Yes, it is. So enjoy more of the dadimus agender.

Optimus prime Masterlist

1

111

__________

It's nearly a week later when the sound of little footsteps echo through the forest again. Optimus had taken to using the cave as a sanctuary, he was away from people, war and causing anymore harm; it was his peaceful spot to coexist with the life of earth. He had taken to watching his step a lot more. 

"Oppy!, Oppy!" The voice of the child calls out in the forest from different areas of the small meadow. Optimus onlined his optics slowly as familiar foot fall neared, accompanied by an eager call he had not expected to hear again so soon. Unfurling from his rest against the cave wall, he peered out into the dappled forest light just in time to see the youngling break into the clearing, they continued calling out. 

"Here, little spark," he rumbled gently, not wishing to startle. His chassis gave a rumble of quiet amusement as they raced over to grasp a digit in childish enthusiasm, peering up at him through delicate facial features wrought only for joy and new discovery. 

"Oppy! I knew I'd find you!" they declared proudly, patting his hand. Pars working, I come to play! You wanna see berris? I picked pretty colours for you!" Bright optics shone with innocent invitation, as if this massive metal being was not so different from the little one smiling up at him. 

Settling back with a faint creak, Optimus regarded them fondly. "I would be honoured to see your findings, little one." The child slowly rummages through their pockets pulling out crumpled flowers, berries, rocks and dirt, eagerly showing it to the Large bot who's hand they sit on. "Oh look, look! I drew this for you!" They exclaimed as they pulled out a drawing. It's a crude yet adorable child drawing of Optimus. "It's You!" They state proudly.

Optimus gingerly accepted the well-worn offering, optics crinkling with gentle humour and affection as he examined the unmistakably drawing of himself, however simplified.

"You have quite the artistic talent, little spark," he rumbled warmly, carefully stowing the drawing within his chassis to keep safe. "I shall treasure this." 

As they continued showing findings, however, his sensors pinged softly, noting the absence of their guardian. Brightening optics subtly scanned the trees, playing drones searching for any signs of the guardian... but none appeared. 

A faint thread of concern wove through his field. "Little one, where did you leave your carrier today?" he asked gently after a moment. "Oh, oh! Pars at home. Just the other side of the meadow!," another toothy grin spreads across their face. 

Optimus is more worried about the young child wandering off without their guardians knowledge, he slowly walks out into the sunlight with them in his hand. anxiety rising though his systems. They were too young yet to wander so freely alone in the forest unguided. 

Stepping carefully out into the dappled sunlight, he turned optics down to them and rumbled in his gentlest tones, "It is not safe for you to wander away from their carrier's care, little one. What if you stumbled upon dangers I was not near to help?." His voice is ever soft as he talks to them.  Shifting his hand, he lifted them up to optic level and tapped their tiny nose softly with a digit. "Let us return you home swiftly, less your guardian finds you missing." striding with utmost care and speed towards where he remembered the meadow lay. 

A set of eyes flicker up as they hear their loud steps, the crunching of branches and the loud voice of their child. They look up from working in a garden, planting vegetables. They look up worried for a second before seeing their child with the large red and blue robot. "Baby I told you, no going into the meadows without me!" They call out as they stand and begin walking towards Optimus. They are covered in a mix of soil, mulch and fertiliser. 

Optimus bowed his helm apologetically as the youngling's carrier approached with concern clear upon their features. Stopping a respectful distance away, he carefully lowered his hand and helped the little one slide to the ground between them. 

"Your child came to my shelter with gifts of drawings, yet when seeking their guardian’s presence I discovered them wandering alone and brought them swiftly back." He explains. 

They slowly check their child as they pull their cheek lightly. "No wandering without me baby, I mean it, what would have happened if Optimus wasn't there and you got hurt?" They ask the child. The little one just smiles at them without a care or worry. "Thank you Optimus, sorry they seem to have a skill with disappearing and finding trouble" they state with a sigh.

Optimus vented quietly, field radiating amusement. "No apology is needed," he rumbled gently. Turning down to the child now regarding him with less enthusiasm, he continued in a rumble barely louder than a murmur but meant only for young audials, "Your carrier speaks wisdom, little one. These forests hold wonders, but also perils for ones as small as you. Promise you'll not stray from home again, hmm?."

Rising once more to his full height, though still kneeling, he paused watching them together, there was something about this that made his spark ache. "Go have a bath bub" they state to their child giving them a quick kiss to the forehead. “ahhh par you are stinky!” They squeal and take off running into the house. "Bath!, bath!, bath!" They yell in excitement. It makes their parent sigh with a shake of their head. "Don't use all the Hot water!" They yell out.

Optimus' optics crinkled with gentle amusement as the child raced off squealing. his plating shifted in a subtle shrug. "Younglings possess a boundless energy and curiosity it appears," he rumbled. 

They slowly try wiping dirt off their face. "Can I get you anything, I'm not sure if you eat or drink but is there anything I can get you?"

"You know you don't have to stay in that cave, you're more than welcome to stay in the barn if you wish" they hum with a smile. For a moment Optimus was surprised by the thoughtful offer, not used to such easy generosity. His optics softened earnestly even as his sensors subtly noted details of the little homestead and its assorted life - taking in the moment watching the small farmhouse and barn, a small collection of many animals linger on the property.

"You are too kind," he rumbled gratefully. Although space within his plating felt... empty, lately, in ways repair and recharge did not mend. He lingers watching as They head inside, helping their child wash up. “ You know one of these days you're gonna get yourself in real trouble you know that kiddo” They huff as they scrub their back. Small giggles leave the child as they throw bubbles back. “But Oppy was out there I wanted to say hi!” They state. 

“and what would happen if he wasn't there, baby. You could have gotten hurt” they sigh. Slowly drying their kid off before letting them race around the house. Making dinner and getting them set for the night is a chore in itself. It's only when the phone rings do they let out a tired sigh, answering it. 

 "Yea, yea I can do that Murphy, I'll be in, in 30 just let me get dressed and put my kid to bed" they state. After the phone call they move around getting dressed quickly. "Baby I've gotta go to work, remember the rules about what to do if I'm not home?" They ask the child. "Mmhmm! I stay inside, lock the doors, don't answer for anyone but you, Par! Can Oppy stay and watch me please?" the little one asks with the biggest pleading eyes, still towelling off damp hair. "Please par? I promise to be good, and not wander, if Oppy watches till your home?" 

"I will ask him but you need to go to bed soon it's getting late" they state while pressing another kiss to their forehead. They are quickly out the door. "Sorry I've got to go to work, would you mind just watching them to make sure they don't wander" they ask softly to Optimus. As they head out to their car. 

"It is no trouble," he rumbled gently, bowing his massive helm in easy acceptance. Settling just outside where his pedes would not disturb soil, Optimus' optics dimmed in contentment as he slowly sank to sit beside the house. "Oppy, watch a movie?" They ask while moving the TV so Optimus can watch through the window. 

his optics flicker gently toward the tiny gaze regarding him through the transparent barrier. "As you wish, little one," he rumbled softly, dipping his chin in a nod. Adjusting his massive bulk carefully so as not to shake the dwelling's foundation, he folded his pedes aside and rested intake against powerful arms, 

 The starting of the movie, excitedly showing him the Iron Giant. “Look look its you!” they say excitedly while pointing to the metal man on screen. " He comes from space just like you!" They state excitedly. Orion's optics brightened keenly as the child excitedly guided his attention to images upon the screen, quickly parsing scenarios and recognizing similarities between fictional depiction and aspects of his own frame and past. 

"Fascinating," he rumbled softly. Looking down with a gentle tilt of helm to meet shining eyes gazing up at him in awe, his field pulsed with warmth. "It would seem he and i are in similar situations." 

Turning audio receptors attentively back to the story unfolding, great hands carefully gathered tiny one closer within his palm, sheltering them in one massive digit as together they watched adventures of the unlikely bond between alien visitor and human child unfold. 

As the movie plays on they continue explaining things to Optimus. The large bot focuses in as the movie shows a little boy saving the large bot from a power plant and how their friendship slowly evolves. It makes him see the parallel with his own situation. As it gets to the scene with the Deer, it makes Optimus' spark ache, remembering what had happened only a week ago when he had stepped on a deer. “ Ah I see why you refer to me as the Iron Giant” he states ever so softly.  Within some time the child is asleep on the couch. Optimus can feel the rain clouds rolling in and decides it's time to retreat into the barn for the night. Transforming down into his alt mode, systems powered down into minimal low-energy mode as the rains began. The little one had drifted into recharge as intended, and his duty for now was fulfilled.

It's a peaceful night until the thunder starts. Cries break through the air. Setting Optimus fuel lines a blaze with true terror hearing the child crying out.

Optimus systems roared instantly back to full alert status at the first crack of thunder and subsequent crying, Transforming smoothly and silently into root mode once more, he began querying sensors for signs of harm - but quickly pinpointed the source as the small one rightfully frightened by nature's fury. The small patterns of foot fall along the wet ground echo's as they run into the barn, meeting his blue optics in fear. 

 "Little one, it is alright. Its only the sky." Holding out palm upturned, 

"It's scary, it's after me!" They cry out.A pang of sorrow shot through Optimus core at the terror in those tiny words, and he responded without pause - tiny arms had barely reached him before he folded massive digits as gently as his construction allowed around them, lifting and tucking them close to his broad chestplate in a cradling hold.

"Shh, little one," he murmured, the steadfast thrum of his own mighty spark resonating against their frame. "The thunder cannot harm you, I promise." he leaned carefully back against the barn walls, free hand coming up to form a shelter around them as the storm raged on outside. "Listen to my sparkbeat," he whispered through the noise, They pull their stuffy and blanket closer. Pressing themself into Optimus’ chest flinching every time the loud thunder echoes in the distance. Snuggling closer to him hoping he will chase away the monster in the storm.

Optimus core ached anew at each flinch of tiny form against his own, Curving lithe digits ever-so-carefully around the little one and their favoured possessions, he cradled them close as any carrier would. 

 "Listen to my pulse, little spark," he murmured softly between cracks above, voice a low, calm anchor in the chaos. "No monster dares face a Prime. I have you." Dipping his helm, Optimus brushed a tender kiss of metal against their head, They eventually fell back asleep snuggled against his form. He powers back down. Locking his systems so that no harm would come to them by him moving in recharge.

When dawn's light broke anew over gentle fields, his core pulsed gratitude for the reminder that life went ever on, even in darkness' wake. And as tiny optics fluttered open to his calm regard once more, he knew true purpose and solace would await wherever innocence required shelter and guardians stood watch.

It's very early morning when they finally arrive home, drained as the head towards the door keys in hand. When they go to open the door only to discover it's unlocked. Cold fear runs through their veins, they move towards the barn with speed. Optimus systems powered alertly at the barn door's opening, yet he remained as still as possible, not wishing to disturb the little one's recharge. Lifting weary optics, A digit raised gently to his intake. “shhhh” he calls out softly. 

_________

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@angelxcvxc

@saturnhas82moons

[nova--spark]

I bring more fluff!!!!

The first time the kids called Op and Lita Dad and Mom:

Raf took the least amount of time. He finally had a family that payed attention to him and he was going to milk it for all it was worth. Cutely enough Raf actually asked Elita and Optimus if he could call them Dad and Mom. They immediately teared up and hugged him close. Saying he could always call them his parents

Miko took a little longer. I mean she makes jokes about them being Dadimus Prime and Momlita-One (which they lovingly rolled their eyes at), but that was just her being a little shit (affectionate). But the first time she genuinely referred to Elita as mom was when she after she got injured. Elita was rewrapping Miko’s wing, being very careful not to wrap it too tight. Once Elita was done she placed a kiss on Miko’s temple. As she was leaving she heard a quiet “Thanks Mom”. Optimus was so confused when Elita came to him crying “Miko called me mom!”. She started calling Optimus Dad shortly after.

Jack as usual was the last after the runaway incident. After his and Arcee’s talk she brought him back home where Optimus and Elita were waiting (Arcee had told them earlier that she’d found Jack and was handling the situation). Jack braced himself for the scolding of a lifetime and a grounding that lasted a lifetime, but he was shocked when instead Optimus and Elita rushed over and embraced him tightly. Both saying how worried they had been for him and to never do something like this again. Jack began crying all over again as he hugged his parents tightly. “Mom, Dad, I am so sorry. I promise I’ll never scare you guys again”. It was a promise he couldn’t necessarily keep since but at the moment he never wanted to see his parents so distraught again

BONUS CHILDREN SMOKE AND BEE: Bee had been calling Elita and Op his parents since day one (he had been found as a very young sparkling so he really didn’t know anything else). But I imagine that when Bee joined the war effort he started making a point not to call his commanding officers Mom and Dad. Once Elita returned he started calling them Mom and Dad again, things were finally back to normal-ish.

When Smokescreen had been adopted by Optimus and Elita (wether it was more an honorary adoption or legal one) he made a point to, respectfully, tell them that he would not call them Mom and Dad. Smoke had been without a true father figure for so long and the last one he had (Alpha Trion) knocked him out cold to shove a key in his chest. He just didn’t want to get too attached again. Optimus and Elita understood and told him that he could call them whatever he wanted. But eventually Smokescreen started calling them Mom and Dad without even realizing it. Optimus and Elita didn’t comment on it but they were happy Smoke felt comfortable enough to call them that

I LOVE THIS CHERRI YOU SPOIL ME MY DEAR.

I love that Smoke wanted to be formal with his heroes

Then just 'congrats youre our baby now' 'Eh?" PEAK CONTENT HERE

[elfdragon12]

Transformers: Energon Universe is a pretty heavy story, however, it's pretty well balanced with exciting action scenes, somber quiet moments, significant character exchanges, Rule of Cool bits, and some little chuckles along the way.

Also, an incredible Dadimus Prime.

[sonicasura]

I had this idea for awhile now.

Everyone knows the Unbecoming episode from Trollhunters? Well, instead of it being an illusion casted by Merlin what if was the visage to a different universe? Jim experiencing the last moments from an alternate self. I'll go more in depth on a different post as it isn't the focus here.

For this, it's Bad End Jim ending up in a different universe after he dies. Where exactly? The Transformersverse but our boy won't be human. He wakes up as a half troll so extra trauma!

Jim is found by Optimus Prime and becomes the Autobot's ward. Yes, the good ol' Dadimus trope as I rarely see the boss bot in it. Both canon and FANON. Something that is very shocking since there's more Fierce Dadity (Fierce Deity from Legend of Zelda) than Dadimus.

Back on topic, Optimus looks over Jim as the boy only trusts him at the moment. A reasonable reaction since the Autobot Leader had been the first to find the traumatized half troll and reach out peacefully. The guy did essentially die at the beginning of a war so Optimus Prime would no doubt see the signs related to such trauma.

For awhile, things were fine as the Autobot Leader looked over the half troll. He kept his windows tinted so the boy could see the sun and not get hurt. It wasn't uncommon for everyone to find Jim perched on Optimus's shoulder or fast asleep in the cab of his alt mode.

Until subtle changes begin to crop up. 'Does Jim looks a bit bigger? Were his nails always that long? I think those horns were smaller.' It becomes clear Jim is slowly becoming a full troll and Energon exposure might be the reason why.

It only gets worse when Cybertronian artifacts like the Matrix of Leadership accelerates the process. Optimus becomes conflicted at this because no one else can handle Jim especially since the boy has yet to recover from his trauma. He still has violent nightmares when not near the Autobot.

Any chance of turning Jim back to human would become impossible if he's a full blown troll. Should Optimus allows his ward's physical condition get worse or his mental health? In the end changes are made if the transformation became complete and there is no turning back.

Optimus always carries a trailer of sorts so Jim can be comfortable whenever on the move. A nest in his habsuite(term for bedroom in Cybertronian if I remember correctly) sounds good as the troll recovers enough to sleep in his room. Maybe a cloak or tarp can provide Jim some cover if he wants to play outside.

A new beginning of sorts where Optimus Prime opens up to a tragic survivor and they both mend with each other's help. Cybertronian father with a trollish son. Sounds lovely, doesn't it?

[keef-a-corn]

Dat’s right, People, it’s time for ‘Keef watches TFP and you just get the notes!’

This is for season 1, episode 19: Rock Bottom.

Genuinely started crying when I realised. No. You cannot be serious. I can’t do this again…

I write down the timestamps, but I watch Transformers Prime on Stan (an Australian streaming service) so they may be slightly off.

ALSO! I try my best to note points for every character, but tend to get a little caught up by Bee (although I think I do a pretty good job with the notes regardless) so do be warned.

I will say that compared to my last episode notes, I’m a bit more upbeat. I finished ep 18 then went straight onto this, so I have no explanation as to why I’m more calm.

~~~~Transition~~~~

00:08 - mm delicious quality. Look at those smexy rocks.

00:31 - After Operation: Breakdown, if I were to theorise that it was actually a Cybertronian body, no one could say otherwise.

00:46 - They need one of those backpacks with a leash attached.

00:51 - especially considering that the conversation had very heavy implications that the mine was a dead end. This show would be a lot shorter if they put Miko on a leash. Could’ve been longer if they gave bots the recovery arcs they deserve though-

00:57 - Bulkhead’s father skills. I love it… Okay been a bit deprived of Dadimus and Bee content, so there’s a part of me that’s wants to redraw this scene so it’s Optimus running after Bee.

01:01 - Kinda vibing with Jack in these past few episodes.

01:29 - *throws into the crowd of Megatron and Starscream fans* FEAST!

~intro~

02:23 - Please tell me someone has a hc that Megatron goes spelunking in his free time.

02:38 - Would it be wrong for me to say I’m kinda vibing with Megatron rn?

02:42 - Starscream has an outline for some reason. Probably lighting.

02:47 - indulge: To allow oneself to enjoy the pleasure of something.

So he d o e s like spelunking.

03:08 - it absolutely would not :D

03:31 - A lot of the time when a character uses a bunch of buzzwords, it’s just a bunch of gibberish. TFP writers really said ‘hold my beer’ because I’d be lying if I said that the explanation didn’t make sense.

04:17 - mmm beautiful camera angle. Really shows the power imbalance.

04:22 - *throws to the Megatron fans* FEAST!

04:24 - What’s going on? Why does Starscream look so cute??

04:43 - excuse me how the fu-

04:54 - … HC Megatron reads body language excruciatingly well. Use that for your fanfictions if you so desire.

04:57 - Why would be so that?! C’mon. Ya could’ve used that.

05:00 - I cannot b r e a t h e ! Can he even see Starscream at that point?!

05:08 - Mmmm walk cycle. Also heavily animated Megatron(?), he’s very expressive in this moment.

05:30 - I adore the contrast of Megatron being expressive, but also unapologetically confident, while Starscream’s stiff and moves like a pigeon that hasn’t quite worked out that it should be flying away.

05:35 - Megatron’s like a theatre kid. It’s so compelling. I feel like I should be bored, but there’s another part of me that cannot look away.

05:51 - He said the title! Wee Woo!

06:20 - how did Arcee not hear them? I get that Megatron wasn’t exactly loud, but they were making noises that was most likely amplified by the tunnels.

06:22 - Megatron’s looking up, not at them.

06:47 - Smart choice, Starscream.

06:51 - let us take a moment to question wtf Megatron thought was going to happen. He had every intention of killing Starscream, but once his attention was drawn away, did he really think Starscream was going to stay back? It’s not like Megatron would need any help anyway, it’s Arcee. As much as she’s a girl boss, she doesn’t really stand a chance against Megatron.

08:27 - that shot lasted too long. + Apart of me was kinda hoping that it would cut to Optimus being like ‘My Primey senses tell me Arcee and Bulkhead are in trouble.’ Then Ratchet there like ‘your what?.’

08:54 - Jack using an Autobot curse. Really getting into the lingo aren’t ya, Jackie boy?

09:05 - Is that a reference?

09:16 - cue Surface Pressure

09:26 - this is a Metaphor for his emotional maturity and how he’s able to carry himself without being emotionally charged nor emotionally constipated. It isn’t- but it totally could be.

09:45 - okay but like, what if he did let go? Slowly, of course.

10:16 - There’s something so enjoyable about a character reacting in a way that is so unbelievably in character for them.

10:39 - Damn. Using your head there, ain’t cha?

11:24 - okay but why has no one come looking for the bots yet?

12:36 - Maybe the rocks are a metaphor for emotions? Arcee let’s her emotions get the better of her, Jack’s learnt to roll with the punches, Miko need to work on it but finds herself getting tired and having to give in, Bulkhead ends up in over his head and needs to let out steam otherwise he will get hurt, Starscream will always be on the run, but will work on himself too and Megatron’s buried too deep.

12:44 - *cri* noooo Bulkhead

13:09 - Aside from that being Optimus’s line, good job, buddy ol’ Jack.

13:35 - I hope Miko’s learnt her lesson.

13:47 - aww sweet pea!

14:10 - world’s most beautiful visual. Megatron’s got some very strong lights in his eyes.

14:25 - Even Megatron knows when he should be defeated.

14:38 - I know he’s right but like… man how I wish he did kill Megatron, or at least try.

14:45 - Why not with Bee? You two have tea together after all (IYKYK)

14:56 - from the way he moves it’s safe to assume he wiggling. Is Megatron secretly a worm? Perhaps.

15:24 - Somewhere in some universe Bulkhead’s a parent.

15:47 - hit me baby one more time. + If Bulkhead’s arms locked would he be able to continue to hold it?

16:43 - this camera angle really puts into perspective how large Starscream is.

16:56 - Ayo 🤨

17:48 - but the way Starscream said Miko- damn

18:17 - Her tears look like they were made on ibisPaint X

18:40 - Power imbalance shown through the angle

19:23 - Bulkhead’s mouth guard is fraggin hollow? Excuse me??

19:43 - The nicknames *cri*

19:50 - Why is that such a ‘main character’s bully gets told off’ scene?

20:20 - depends what from.

———————

And that was Rock Bottom. Not nearly as bad as I thought it would be. Ain’t a favourite but that’s alright. It's a good episode, not my style, but certainly one that deserves love.

[goldemas1244]

Transformers: Age Of Extinction

Rating: 4/5 stars

-

Good things about it:

Amazing storyline.

Pog character growth and development.

Good conflict.

Good fight scenes.

Bumblebee being the most adorable baby bee.

Dadimus prime.

Lore is understandable so far.

Dinobots, especially Spike are EPIC.

Every frame involving the Autobots can be used for valveplug reference.

Almost everything.

Optimus has tatas now.

Pogchamp character design.

Baldy is probably bi/pan and he's cute for that.

-

Not-so-good things about it

Not enough Optimus tata.

Not enough Galvatron involvement.

Seriously though wtf is that guy's name? The main villain guy? I named him Quincy because Quintesson/sa vibes.

FRAGGING EYEBALL ROBOTS HOLY SCRAPHEAP PRIMUS CHRYSLER ME FOUR-TWELVE GET THAT THING BACK TO FNAF WHERE IT CAME FROM OR SO HELP ME

Not enough Dadimus Prime moments.

Why has Prime never used his shin-jets?

Alien tongue scene.

The dogs reminded me of Springtrap (robo-fleshies) which reminded me of Springrap Lemons/Smut on Wattpad which reminded me of Springtrap's schlong which made me wonder out loud, basically... well, I mentioned it somewhere.

Optimus doesn't get enough hugs.

[adabofblessings]

Aight, i came up with something interesting! What type of activities would Dadimus enjoy with the kids all together and individually with each?

Oooh awesome question!

Jack

I think him and dad Optimus would thoroughly enjoy long rides together. Jack enjoyed riding Arcee together and it was mentioned in Tv series that him and Arcee were out riding sometimes. Jack and Optimus are more reserved and quiet than the rest of them, so I would like to believe they would enjoy each other's presence. Silence can be such a powerful action at times. Prime and Jack sometimes make small conversation and then it would be quiet. Its not awkward silence but rather a comforting silence instead.

Miko

Miko is a bit rambunctious and can be loud at times, but Optimus wouldn't mind it much. Its her personality. Its what makes Miko...Miko! He knows many other kids think otherwise and that it's just for attention wise, but Optimus knows that looks can be deceiving and it really does aches his spark when shes so misunderstood. I would love to think that Miko would ask him if he could be her model and let her draw him. While very reluctant, he knows that Miko has a love for drawing and is naturally good at her hobby. So he lets her. He stands still in a pose in which Miko has asked him too. Listens to her chatter away while drawing him. Optimus just smiles and nods his helm at times. I'd like to think Optimus knows that all Miko needs is a listener and a person to guide her when she has problems. So whenever Miko wants to draw him again, he instantly acknowledges as a secret code that Miko needs to vent and talk about her problems.

Raf

This sweet little munchkin is hard for Optimus to really figure out. He's much more quieter than most of the rest of the children and he seems to enjoy Ratchet's or Bumblebee's presence than anyone else. But it doesn't mean Optimus cannot try. The Prime soon realizes that Raf loves learning. He is a computer whiz and has been in A.P. classes before. So, Optimus takes their activity as a learning one. He teaches Raf about Cybertronian language, culture and the history of it all! Raf is completely engrossed in Optimus' teaching. While Raf has learned their anatomy and biology from Ratchet, the boy has learned much more from Optimus. And he can't help but feel amazed on how this alien robot was so willing to share some information to him. Soon enough, Raf explains humans and cultures from around the world. Its like a mini Orion breaking through from Raf and Optimus sees that a lot sometimes.

When they're together, games and other activities are shared through their family. And it becomes a regular thing to just hang out with their robot dad, whether it's together or individually. Regardless, they all savor the little moments together ❤

[poptimus-prime]

sad boi hours anon here. I'm sorry for bothering you again but things really aren't going too well for me at the moment. remember that ask I sent before where Optimus adopts a trans son? can I have some more hcs for that scenario please? Dadimus prime to the rescue when things become overwhelming maybe? Ratchet helping with the kids T shot bc he's to scared to do it himself? bulkhead teaching him how to play lob? fowler teaching him how to shave?

idk I just think it would be cool. it's OK if you don't want to do it.

Ahhh hi again Anon.

I hope you’re safe. :( I’m sorry that you aren’t doing very well.

Here you go, sorry it took a couple of days. I needed to decompress after finals and ADHD kept yoinking my attention span Warning for razors and needles and injections--

Sometimes, the base got loud. It was a fact of life, and one this kid was somewhat content with. It was better than his old home.

However, there is such a thing as too loud. Especially when Bulkhead broke something. That was the start of a yelling match, almost guaranteed. Even though Ratchet and Bulkhead could eventually calm down and mediate themselves, they still could cause quite a racket.

And Optimus knew his new kid wasn’t too keen on that. He had to find him.

“...Optimus, please?” He heard the tiny voice of the human--the boy had found the Prime first. Optimus turned to meet his son’s gaze with a small smile, instantly offering a servo. The child hopped on, still covering his ears with his hands as he was carefully walked out.

“Are you alright?” Optimus asked once they were far from the explosiveness of the main silo, gently rubbing the human’s back with a finger to soothe him.

“Everything’s still too loud...” The boy curled up more, continuing to press his hands into his ears.

“Do you want to go for a drive? And get you out of the base while Bulkhead and Ratchet to calm down?”

“...Yes please, Dadimus.”

“Alright, sounds--wait, Dadimus?” Optimus asked as he transformed and let the kid in.

“I’ll explain later.”

——

“Where does this shot go?”

“In the arm this time please?”

“Alright.” Ratchet’s holoform swiped the alcohol pad on the boy’s upper arm, handing the wrapper for said pad to him. “On the count of three.”

“I’m ready.” The boy nodded, holding the wrapper on his flat palm and taking a deep breath. 

“One...two...three.”

The boy blew the wrapper across the platform as Ratchet administered the T, just as June had told him how to. He put the syringe in the sharps container and put a bandage on the injection.

“Did I win the race?” He asked with a grin. Ratchet couldn’t help but chuckle a bit.

“You always do.”

The kid turned to hug Ratchet’s holoform tightly. “Thank you for doing my shot. It was scary to try to jab myself.”

“Of course.” Ratchet patted his back a bit and took a deep breath, the alarm beeping. “I hate to break up the moment, but I need to deactivate my holoform.”

“Alright...” The boy hesitantly let go.

——

Bulkhead widened his stance a bit, glancing over to his little friend. “You want to keep your stance wide and strong, make yourself sturdy.”

“Incoming!”

Wheeljack lobbed the ball to Bulkhead with a force that the Wrecker responded to by taking a few steps back. “But don’t be too sturdy. Move with the ball.”

“Exactly how sturdy do I have to be?” The boy asked, tilting his head.

“There is no exact in Lobbing. You have to feel it.” The ball flies back to Wheeljack, nearly knocking him over. “He was too sturdy. Instead of moving with the ball, he held still.”

“Alright!” The careful scribble of notes. “Um...how do you win the game?”

“First person to fall or not catch the ball loses.”

“Think fast!”

The ball flew past Bulkhead and right through the wall, finally landing with a thud in the hallway.

“...Like that. I just lost.” Bulkhead scooped the boy up. “And now let’s bail before Ratchet finds his throwing wrench.”

——

Optimus tried his best to father his charge-turned-son. However, there was so much about the human experience that he may never quite understand. And if he does understand, teaching it to his human son was next to impossible.

This is where Fowler picks up.

“Ideally, you want to shave right after you shower, but this will do...” The boy wrinkled his nose up as Fowler rubbed shaving cream to cover his cheeks. “The moisture makes it a lot easier.”

“This stuff stinks.” The boy barely held back a sneeze.

“I know, I buy cheap shit.” Fowler laughed as he turned the kid so he faced the mirror, grabbing the razor. “We can get you something nicer when we get your own bottle, though.”

Fowler carefully demonstrated how to hold the razor, what directions to go in, and how often to rinse the blade.

“Fowler?” The boy asked as he applied the moisturizer as Fowler instructed.

“Yeah, kid?”

“...Thanks for helping Dad teach me stuff. I know you don’t have to, and you probably don’t want to—.”

“Oh no, I do want to.” Fowler joked a bit. “Your father is a giant walking disaster.”

“You don’t mean that.” The boy snorted.

“...For the most part, I don’t. But regardless, sometimes he needs a human touch to his parenting.”

“...Yeah, I guess it’d be weird for Dad to try to teach me how to shave my face.”

[recherche-raptor]

Cyberverse liveblog, S1S3: AllSpark, part 2

Time to get caught up on what Cartoon Network has available!

EDIT: hey website why did you mislabel parts 1 and 2 so I started with the second half of the episode instead of the first, wth

Well, we’re off to a pretty action-packed start. Loving the Dadimus Prime moment where Optimus pushes Bumblebee out of harm’s way, more of that, please.

Who are these Genericons? They remind me of screenshots I’ve seen of the G1 storm trio (Rainmakers or something???) but Nova Storm and Acid Storm have confirmed designs with very different color schemes. Also, is that the SpaceBridge in the background? :0

Why would you not have Grimlock turning into a dinosaur in his first appearance? D: please let him be a dinosaur sometime in the near future, Hasbro! Also, props to Optimus’s voice actor, he’s doing an excellent Peter Cullen impression.

Megatron’s shading looks kinda... off, to me. Especially the eyes. And is it just me or does he sound vaguely pirate-y the way he says “Prime?”

Yeah I’m not liking Megatron’s animation or voicing. At least Optimus is pretty good. :/

The way Megatron just went flying when Optimus just straight-up shot him was funny enough, but when he sat up and just... stared at the camera like this I fricking burst out laughing.

Please. Animators. I’m begging you. Give Megatron’s eyes some more detail. His eyes are just so blank and his eyebrows weirdly immobile so his every expression is just dull surprise. I’m pretty sure Megatron isn’t meant to be comedic.

Now that is how you do a major villain intro. Also, anyone else laugh when the plating on his torso folded up to reveal like a hundred guns?

I’m loving how expressive the Seekers have been. Also, the stylized fight scenes are pretty cool, and the color-coded backgrounds are a nice touch, but it’s also sort of... detached? One character swings a sword on a colorful background, the other reacts on their colorful background, it feels less intense. I wish these episodes were given more than 11 minutes ;;-;;

So this definitely has much more in common with Animated than Prime in terms of tone; that is not a complaint, Starscream’s shrieking was hilarious, but I was expecting a bit more Prime-ish-ness so it’s at least good to have that decisively settled so I can appreciate this for what it is instead of trying to figure out how it adds up to what I was guessing it might be. Also, nice to see that at least one of the Seekers remembers how to fly when thrown off a cliff.

Whoa wait what how?

...wh... why does Shadow Striker hate Bumblebee? What is going on with that??? And with her voice???

At least Soundwave’s voice acting is top-notch!

LET MEGATRON’S EYES MOVE & EMOTE 2K18

More Seeker cameos :0

This AllSpark empty! YEET! Dangit, Optimus, now how will Cybertronians play dnd?!

Are those yellow Seekers all fembots?

Aww, Bumblebee misses his dad ;;

[tinydefector]

IRON GIANT

Optimus x human

Word count: 1.9k

Warnings: death of an animal.

Saw some of the skybound comics and had to write this because the parallel between optimus and the Iron Giant is too good not to use. So this is based on this comic panel. This may become a series if people enjoy it alot.

Enjoy the Dadimus agender

Also I use Par as a gender neutral term for Parent, but pronounced as Pa.

Optimus prime Masterlist

11

111

___________________

Optimus sighed as he finished digging the small grave, optics dimming as he gently picked up the delicate creature and nestled it into the soft earth. He had never wished harm, had faltered in these alien woods, ending a life that had merely sought to flee his unfamiliar form.

Kneeling, he carefully began restoring the soil, patting it smooth as if to apologise with each motion for the accident his bulk had caused. They hadn't suffered small blessings, at least. When at last the mound was shaped, he sat back on powerful haunches, gazing at it pensively. How many graves, both great and small, had he been forced to dig through eons defending his kind - and yet each still marked loss, whether of one or many. 

After a moment, massive fingers reached to dig up several wildflowers, arranging them with utmost care atop the fresh earth. A simple marker for one whose brief journey had crossed paths with a warrior never meant for such quiet spaces. But perhaps their essence would nourish new growth, 

Venting softly, Optimus sat beside the grave, he felt guilty, it was a chance accident, one which had hurt his spark. The sound of the forest doesn't ease his aching spark even in the bright sunlight. The birds sing and the wind rushes the leaves as if to make a song. Earth was much more lively than Cybertron ever was. Birds flutter around picking at the ground and even landing on his form as if to inspect the metal. Optimus stilled as small avians flitted unafraid about his massive frame, their delicate peeps and chirps surrounding him in a melody utterly alien yet soothing in its liveliness. optics dimming partially as if to seem less a looming threat to these curious creatures. 

After a moment, one landed upon an outstretched digit, tilting its feathered head as it studied the bright red and blue plating so unlike any perches it knew. Another joined, then more, exploring seams and transformation seem as if puzzling over this odd visitor to their domain. His spark, heavy with ages of loss, eased slightly at their curiosity. On Cybertron, all life had long fled the ravages of war - these woods teemed with it at every turn, in every trill and rustle. Their sounds wove a music this weary warrior had never known, helping him glimpse what peace might one orn bless his ancient world again.

A faint, sad smile touched Optimus 's stoic face as small wings took flight once more. Perhaps in these forests, he might find solace for his burdened spark and among these trees, he began to comprehend Earth's beauty and fragility anew.

noise in the distance spooks the birds. But Optimus doesn't move from The grave of the Doe, the noises become louder, it's small laughter echoing just off in the trees. "Baby please don't run off!" A voice calls out. Optimus froze as small steps neared the clearing, optics widening fractionally at the curious sight of tiny organics emerging where wildlife had fled moments before.

 A little child walks out into the field where Optimus sits. "Look, look Robot!" The small child calls out to their parent. Their parent is quick to grab them, hauling them up into their arms as they stare at Optimus. The child with excitement and wonder and the parent with fear. Both the older human and Optimus have a stare off neither willing to move less they spook the other. He realised, judging by similarities of form and mannerism in how they clung and shielded one another, that the larger one was the smaller creator. 

Slowly, carefully, he lowered a hand beside him upon the grass, Emitting a low, soothing rumble, cogs and gears slowly creaking as he ventilated slowly, His thoughts reached to memories of younglings in Iacon.

The younger one smiles widely and waves "hiya Robot!" They call out which makes their parent stiffen in worry. "Baby shh" they try to move backwards slowly only for their child to call out again. " But Par, robot!, like Iron Giant! From the movie, big robot! " Their child state excited. It makes Optimus chuckle lightly. "Hiya Iron Giant!" The child calls out without fear. Wrangling themself out of their parents arms. "Baby stop" they state to their child. 

Optimus himself is still quiet as he watches the child walk up to him fearlessly

Optimus could not help but vent a soft laugh at the comparison from the sparkling, a gentle puff of air that set grass and leaves dancing around them. The naive curiosity and wonder from their tiny frame spoke of no fear.

Slowly, carefully he extended a digit for the young one to grasp, wishing to show only gentleness as small hands patted over plating smooth and cool rather than textured flesh. His field pulsed calming waves as he met their bold gaze, watching tiny mouth spread in a fearless grin. At last, he rumbled in the softest volume, "hello little one." 

Optics flicked respectfully to the elder, The older human watches in worry as they freeze on the spot watching their child. The little human looks up at Optimus as they hold up their plushy. "This is Mimi! My stuffy, par made her for me, they make me a lot of things. Oh you talk too! I really like your red and blue is really pretty! Do you like rocks? I like rocks" They state as they start talking away to Optimus without a care in the world. Their parent slowly move to the ground, eyes darting and watching the large bot.

Optimus listened intently, optics softened in pleasure at the youngling's chatter and display of their favoured toy. 

"Mimi is most charming indeed," he rumbled gently in response, spark warming though his frame showed no smile. Lifting his optics once more, he dipped his head respectfully to the elder still keeping close watch. 

"You have raised a marvellous spark," he said softly to them, processors mindful of putting alien species at ease through tone, hoping honesty and calm might quell reasonable fear. "I mean your offspring no harm I swear it on my spark." he focused once more on the babbling child, granting gentle puffs of air in response to questions too swift for speech.

The older human's eyes linger on their child before flickering to bright blue optics of the large bot. " They give me a scare often when they wander off." They state as they sit and watch the large bot gently interact with their child.  "What... what are you?" They asked, they know that if it wanted to hurt them it would have done so by now but they are still cautious of the large robot. "Par He's a robot, silly!" The little human calls out with giggles.

"Indeed I am a robot," rumbled Optimus gently with a faint vibration of amusement. His optics crinkled slightly at the young one's matter-of-fact pronouncement. Turning back to their elder, his field radiated openness and trust as he answered their question with utmost care. "My name is Optimus. I was created on the planet Cybertron.” Plating shifted in a subconscious shrug. "My only wish is peaceful coexistence. I mean you and yours no harm."

The little human giggles and spins around. "Told you Par! Space Robot!" They state proudly.

optics softened as he regarded them both. "I am glad this young one remains unafraid to explore life's wonders." His tone held enduring patience. Their parent's eyes linger on the disturbed ground which had a patch of flowered grass on it. "What happened?" They ask cautiously. Optimus followed their gaze and intake a soft vent, optics dimming slightly at the memory. "Earlier I came upon this clearing, and in my haste took an innocent life by accident. A young forest dweller, unaware of my heaviness, that fled at my approach." 

Placing a gentle digit beside the flowers, he said evenly, "As all life is sacred, I took care in giving it rest, and sought to memorialise its short journey through this place.” Turning optics pained with regret, he met their gaze steadily and continued in a low rumble. 

The older ones' eyes soften lightly. They stand up and move closer. " Baby, do you mind playing over there for a second par needs to look at something," they call to their child who nods and skips off a little. The older human looks over the grave to Make sure it was deep enough to hide the deer. 

They look up at Optimus. They stand just a few steps away from him watching his expressions. "You really are like the Iron Giant, I'm sorry, it's never easy hurting an animal, it didn't suffer?" They ask softly. Optimus  blinked slowly at the question, then dipped his head in gentle affirmation and thanks for understanding shown.  he rumbled softly in response. "And no, the creature did not suffer - its journey was swift. Still I regret hastiness that cut a natural span abruptly short. But I accept also my strengths and flaws, as all beings must."

They sit down beside the large bot as their eyes watch their child play in the flowers with the butterflies. "Par, Look look Butterflies!" The little one shouts in excitement as one lands on their nose. "I'm sorry you stepped on the deer, it's horrible when you accidentally kill an animal. Thank you for burying it, it may not mean much but thank you, I don't think I would have been able to handle it if they had seen the deer like that" they state softly.

Optimus 's optics softened as he watched the youngling's innocent delight, spark warming within his frame. He pulsed a gentle field of gratitude to their elder beside him. 

"You need not apologise," he rumbled gently. "All beings strive as best they can, and errors do not diminish intent." Turning down to meet their gaze, he continued solemnly, "I am glad sparing them that sight has helped ease another incident, however slightly. Protecting innocence is important."

A faint smile warmed his stoic face as small pedes danced among blooms. "They are a joyful little spark." His field swirled sincerity. They slowly look up at him. "Are you alright?" They ask, it was the first time in a very long time that he had been asked how he felt. It makes him realise that he wasn't alright. 

He hadn't been alright for a long time. It felt strange for such a small creature to be asking him that. Optimus blinked, caught off guard by the simple question and sincere concern shining in organic eyes gazing at him. When was the last time anyone had inquired after his wellbeing? Long forgotten were those orn...

He shifted slightly, optics dimming as memory files flooded his processor - friends fallen, a world dissolved to cinders while he could only watch. His people scattered to the stars if lucky; slain without mercy if not. For so long his every function had been duty - to lead, guard, rebuild against impossible odds. But what remained of Optimus beneath it all? 

Slowly releasing a long vent, he admitted softly, "No, not truly. The burdens of many vorns sit heavy. But watching life thrive here gives solace," he gestured to the playing sparkling with a faint flicker of affection. His gaze met theirs openly. His field pulsed gratitude too deep for mere words. In such simple moments, perhaps broken things long shattered might slowly, carefully be glued back together.

_________

Taglist: @angelxcvxc

@saturnhas82moons

[adabofblessings]

How does Dadimus comfort each of the kids after a particularly bad day and how would they repay the favour after he has a bad day himself?

Oof! My heart!

All three of them have different ways of showing when they need comfort. Optimus is good at reading people and knows when one of his comrades is in the dumps. However, he isn't considered a comforter, per say. Millions of war has kind of taken away the basic emotions of Optimus or Orion used to have.

He still has those gentle tones and understanding empathy, but he is in no way of a physical or emotional comforter, but damn does he try when it comes to his family.

Lets start, shall we? :)

Miko

I wanna think Miko knows what she needs. Shes firm if she wants to be alone and I think Optimus knows it. However, being firm can be a huge misunderstanding sometimes. Shes firm about hanging out or doing something together, not because shes being forceful, but because she needs someone to talk to. She wants someone to listen to her and hear her. But she also knows that her friends can't always do that. And her parents are miles away from her. So where does she go?

To Optimus.

And after awhile of Miko practically pleading to him to hang out and do whatever, he starts to see how Miko expresses her needs through activities. It takes a moment and he wasn't sure why she was asking him to draw him or paint on his frame, but he realizes that she talks a lot about things team Prime don't know except him and Jack and Raf.

It really does sadden him when he sees this precious teenager go through life and have a different approach on how she expresses her challenges. Most people can't see that and it destroys them immensely. But he tries to be there every step of the way.

He always notices that Miko's hands are always doing something whenever hes with her and theres a revelation to that little hint. Its some thing that distracts her while she's pouring out her life. But Optimus knows it to keep her grounded while she's talking.

They seem to know a secret code of some sort. There's always a day where Miko will walk up to Optimus and ask him to do something, and it clicks to his processor that she needs a hearing ear. And hes always on point of that. He'll drop everything to help her. Be a ear or just someone to near her. He'll let her hang around his shoulder plate or let her hug his digit whenever she needs physical affection.

Jack

Jack is a lot like Optimus in many ways. He suffers through silence and wont talk about his difficulties. Hes never mentioned about his life problems, but everyone has breaking points and Jack is no different.

There's a moment where Jack comes to the base with tiredness etching his pale face. Arcee notices, Ratchet and then everyone does, but he flat out refuses to say anything. Stubborn boy.

Optimus is the only one that hasn't asked about what was wrong with him, because he can practically see what the boy is doing. He's no stranger to this type of suffering. It kills him inside because this suffering silence is a slow kind of painful type. It destroys from the inside and out.

He notices that Jack takes it slow and prefers it that way. It takes a lot of time but he finally cracks a little part of Jack. The fruits of his labor is finally here and he wouldn't want it any other way.

It starts out small but Optimus knows how wary Jack is with this personal information. He just nods and listens. The thing is that Jack isn't venting, he just seems lost and confused and thats what makes Optimus understand him more.

Jack is that kind of person who is always seeking for advice. Its difficult because he doesn't have a father to teach him those advices. His mom has always been his steady rock but things become unsteady when it becomes the world growing men.

And while Optimus is no where near Jack's species, he does try his best to give fatherly advice. Though it comes out natural than what Optimus think it sounds like. Jack feels a lot better after the talk between him and Optimus and rather enjoys there time together. However he isn't really the one to verbally ask for help, so Optimus always have to keep an Optic out when Jack is one of thise predicaments. They're not very affectionate but Jack does pat Optimus' pede. And though it's not much, Optimus knows that it's Jack way of affection and he cherishes it greatly.

Raf

Raf is those kids whose teachers and his parents have to go to him when hes troubled. Even though Raf will say hes fine every time someone asks him if he's okay, hes not really. It frustrates the crap out of Ratchet and it concerns Bumblebee. Eventually they'll give up and let the kid come to them, but the Prime knows;he sees it. And he doesn't like it.

The more they try to pry it out of him the more he seals his problems. He doesn't want to cause more trouble from what he's experiencing. At first, Optimus is light and soft. But then after awhile of not being able to get Raf to open up, he has to be firm. Why.

Raf is shrugging at the question and simply gives him a very vague answer. Like "just school" or "just tired" but Optimus knows that its more than that. Hes patient as ever and let's Raf play that game. Soon enough, there's a snap in Raf and it completely unfolds. He's tired, he's frustrated, he wants someone to hug him and just comfort him.

It breaks Optimus' spark but he knows that letting go will help him. He sits through the tears and frustrated talks and just listens. Soon, Optimus finds himself expressing more physical affection towards the youngest team member. He's scooping up the poor and tired boy and letting Raf rest of his tired head against his warm chassis, allowing his spark to beat soothingly against Raf's ear. It takes a lot out of the boy but he relaxes and finds himself at peace. Whenever Raf is need of attention, Optimus understand and learns that Raf is a boy and needs the affection that he lacks of. Unfortunately, Raf isn't the person to ask, so whenever he and Raf are alone, he'll scoop him up and allow the boy hang around or nap on him if he's tired.

Optimus

After hes all done dealing with lovable children, hes all alone and ready to greet the inescapable sound of silence. Hes willing to sit by himself and contemplate life and the consequences he's experienced during his long years. Unfortunately (fortunately) all three children see him alone and that will just not do! Sure, hes older than millions of lives combined but that doesn't mean that their dad won't suffer alone.

Optimus very surprised when he sees Jack, Miko and Raf climbing him and perch themselves on his shoulder. Miko and Raf wraps their arms around Optimus' face while Jack is placing a hand on the side of his faceplate. It's simple but Optimus finds himself closing his optics and leaning to their small hugs.

He feels at peace, enjoying the comforting presence of his human children. His children is all it takes for his demons to flee and it takes just a minute to feel determine to defeat this war and bring peace to his world, just as the human children gave him.

[poptimus-prime]

Here is what the kids call my highly disorganized, half-baked list of stuff that could have been done with Jack to make him a better character.

@yeetmetothehell I am sorry if you are disappointed by my ideas.

“Optimus was more like...Jack.” OK…so show us that.

In my opinion...Jack seems like he was intended to be written to be almost a parallel to Orion’s journey to becoming Optimus Prime, at least how he is used in the plot. Jack is described as “smart and responsible”, which can also be read as “hardworking and responsible” and really this can be achieved in narratively using a few points, IMO:

Long hours in his room/the library studying outside of work and school. 

Filling out the background of the garage more with sketches/print outs of motorcycle blueprints (to keep the idea that Jack really wants a motorcycle and show hints of extreme dedication, but they’re kept in the garage rather than his room to metaphorically show that distance he’s put between himself and what he wants)

“Man of the House”/”Grew up too fast” (This will be discussed more later but TL;DR “I’ll handle the electric bill this month, Mom”)

Somewhat fragile work/school/life balance that Jack somehow perfectly maintained before meeting the team

Orion was very physically passive. Jack seems to be intended to be written as passive but it comes off as an apathetic reluctance that Orion doesn’t possess (Orion may not believe in violence but he clearly wasn’t unwilling to communicate his thoughts; it’s how he got the title of Prime in the first place.) However, Orion had to learn to become more outspoken over time probably, so we can keep him as being aloof/reluctant at the start of the series.

“Man of the House”/”Grew up too Fast”

It’s no secret Jack came from a nonconventional home; June is very explicitly portrayed as a single mother with a dad nowhere in the picture. However the situation surrounding Mr. Darby is unknown. The way June talks about it makes me personally feel like Jack’s dad either ran out or divorced June and doesn’t bother with his kid. Dysfunction in the family really just goddamn changes you TBH. (can confirm bc hi, I come from a dysfunctional home) Sometimes you just grow up super fast. Jack probably spent his childhood missing his mom as she worked shifts at the hospital and seeing how lonely and hurt she was. He maybe went out and got a job the first day he could and helps with smaller bills (“I’ll handle the electric bill this month.”), or maybe other expenses like groceries and his own phone bill. June probably makes enough to comfortably support her and her son, especially given her job and the cost of living in rural ass desert Nevada. But Jack still does this anyways--it’s how he copes with his issues after what happened with his dad. Doubling down and trying to be what he thinks is the bigger man because his dad couldn’t be fucked. 

This would make the disruption him letting the bots into his life creates more staggering; June doesn’t expect her son to pay bills, but the sudden change in behavior (skipping out on work) would be a cause for concern because sudden shifts like that are Usually Signs that Something is Very Wrong. Especially because Jack is usually responsible and open with his mom; he would have told her if he was gonna cut hours at work, theoretically.

Jack feels like he has to constantly put his own wants aside to contribute to his household. Even if June doesn’t force this expectation upon him, it’s a feeling that he will have, especially if he watched his dad just abandon him and June. Maybe he has resentment towards his dad for this and that is causing some anger he’s keeping tightly under wraps? And maybe the bots give him an excuse to do something he actually wants to do for once or some excitement in his life and that’s why he goes along with it? Lots of options, people!

Clothing Choices: The Hoodie™

You are going to have to deal with me being a whore for costuming choices and what they can mean. The show has a problem with the humans wearing the same shit every time they’re on screen and I’d love to rant about all of them (yeah yeah I get it saving money) but I’m focusing on Jack right now. Give Jack a hoodie 2020. A grey one or some other dull and drab color. And make him actually always wear the hood (except like in scenes where he is working bc workplace dress codes obviously) As time progresses, the drab hoodie is changed to a more vibrant color, but he still always has the hood over his head. And then, at a pivotal moment, the boy takes the hood off. (You could even throw in Miko cracking a joke about Jack actually having hair if you really wanted TBH.) Why this? The narrative is that Jack is constantly holding himself under wraps because of his self-imposed responsibilities. As he starts to become more into his own, he decides to express himself more with brighter colors, but still has some reservations. When he takes the hoodie off, that’s when he’s fully realized himself in this process and thus completes the parallel.

Actually make him interact with Optimus in a meaningful manner.

Arcee can still be his guardian in the field and I think working on strengthening their relationship is vital. But also, if you’re gonna make Jack the confidante holding the key to Vector Sigma, there actually has to be...meaningful interaction. Optimus asking Jack what he’s so engrossed in reading and Jack explaining the book he’s got with passion before shutting himself up and saying “it’s kinda dumb though” or something. And Optimus just responds “I don’t think it’s dumb, tell me more.” Coaxing him towards more self-discovery and expression. Optimus maybe sees more of his old self in Jack and starts attempting to be a quasi-paternal figure without really thinking about it because he is, after all, Dadimus. Jack maybe lashes out about how he doesn’t need Optimus to be his dad and that makes the space between them tense for a while. Eventually Jack comes to apologize and maybe there’s an important Talk.. Just a few ideas I will expand on later. I feel like forgiveness and lack thereof is a good theme--I know I was held back for a long time because of how convoluted the concept of forgiveness is with family.

The Character Arc

 So, what would Jack’s character development throughout the events of season 1 be? My basic idea for a Jack arc that mirrors Orion’s self-realization and coming into Prime-hood without being a carbon copy is essentially: 

Jack is portrayed as a responsible, hardworking, studious teenager who constantly turns down chances for fun and excitement to handle his responsibilities. Has clear dreams for after high school and for his own personal life; but he’s constantly contemplating and changing his mind about whether he will or not because he’s extremely dedicated to helping his mom and all that. However, he still gets super curious about Arcee and gets swept up by her in the Vehicon chase, and he still has whispers of courage and protects Raf during the altercation. He first tries to ditch Team Prime because he’s concerned about his responsibilities, but eventually returns because he’s drawn to the opportunity to finally go buck wild for once in his life (even if he spends his time being hesitant about everything.) His hesitancy and dedication to severe self-imposed responsibility is a result of his inability to move on from what his dad did to him and his mom; he’s under the impression that he 1) Has to forgive someone to move on, and thus 2) He cannot move on because his dad isn’t there to bother to say sorry and take on his position as Dad. In essence, he becomes less the character telling Miko to stop and more the character being pushed by Miko to be more adventurous. In lulls in action, Optimus starts to take interest in him when he notices his constant hesitance to express himself and is just being dragged along rather than going willingly. Has a conversation with him about a book Jack’s reading, which Jack attempts to shut down because it’s “dumb and childish,” but Optimus urges him to continue. The idea that June knows about Arcee as a bike and Jack explaining that he bought a motorcycle as a fixer-upper for dirt cheap can stay. (He probably still is saving up for his motorcycle.)

The longest portion, after Optimus starts interacting with Jack on a level of bonding and gently coaxing him to be himself— Jack becomes more outspoken and he’s shown as curious, analytical, quick witted, and has a deep sense of justice. Being young and craving a childhood lost to his trauma and self-imposed obligations to help his mom with running the household, he suddenly starts spending more time at the base pursuing hobbies and going on missions rather than studying and work, which concerns June. She tries to press Jack, and is met with what can be described as typical teenage headbutting that gets progressively worse. She grounds Jack after the fight, MECH takes her, the rescue happens. (That makes sense to stay in this narrative IMO.) Around this time, Optimus has effectively started becoming Jack’s own Alpha Trion—teaching him things that he’s picked up that he may feel apply to Jack. Jack interprets one of these lessons as Optimus trying to be “dad” and he’s not having it. Makes it VERY clear that he does not need a dad (“didn’t need one before and sure as fuck don’t need one now”) and definitely snaps at Optimus, which then pushes his progress in the arc closer to the end. He eventually comes back to apologize, and Optimus forgives him. He and Optimus have a heart-to-heart about one of the hardest lessons Optimus has had to learn—how to let go of the past without forgiving those who have hurt you and refuse to make amends, so that you may determine your own future. It’s very clear he’s talking about Megatron, even though he never says his name. Jack takes this lesson to heart.

His final bit of development before the hood removal thing probably happens during the events of “Rock Bottom” and reinforces that hard lesson, right when he’s faced with the option to off Megatron. Maybe there’s some taunting about how Optimus preaches softness and forgiveness too much when Jack refuses to kill him. Jack gets angry, and he’s about to fucking do it. But then he stops, takes a breath, and says “Optimus doesn’t preach forgiveness, he preaches moving on from those who refuse to move on themselves. He will never forgive you, but he’s learned to live on despite what you’ve done.” Soon after this, when Megatron comes to the base, Jack takes off his hood, stares Megatron right in the face, and says “This is not forgiveness, Megatron. Don’t you forget that.” Later, when Optimus gives him the key, he tells him something along the lines of “you have grown since we’ve met, Jack, and even though there is still a long way for you to go...” he hands Jack the key. “...Remember that even I am a work in progress.”

Anyways this is again, half-baked. And needs lots of polishing. But it’s something.

[adabofblessings]

I'm just curious. especially after the last chapter of The Little Things in Life where Optimus has pretty much become Dadimus at this point and since it's just been Father's Day, how would Miko, Jack and Raf spend Father's Day with Optimus?

Good-no- amazing question! Given the fact that Jack has no father to celebrate with, Miko's father is on the other side of the world and I can only assume that Raf's dad is doing work-its a sore day for the children.

However, just because they don't have fathers to celebrate this special day, doesn't mean there isn't a father-figure they can commemorate: Optimus Prime!

Think of it, Optimus is legitimately the dad of Team Prime. He cares greatly for his comrades and allies. He's protective of them and respects their different personalities and anatomy. What they lack outside, they definitely don't lack inside.

When Fathers day rolls around, it's a sensitive moment to realize the fact the children don't have any father's to celebrate....that is until Miko mentions it about Optimus being their dad of the day for this specific occasion.

It wasn't like Raf, Jack nor Miko had thought of Optimus being like a father figure-no, he was literally the figure of what fathers should be, and Jack bitterly wished he had one like Optimus, but he didn't know if Optimus returned the sentiments with being paternal with them.

When Jack denies of doing that to Optimus, it ends up in a big argument with Miko, and Raf is trying to be the peacemaker, but to no avail.

Eventually, the argument is so loud, it catches the attention of non other, Optimus Prime. The Autobot leader is confused as to why the older teenagers were telling a it each other about him.

"What's this about fathers day?" He questions innocently.

Miko is quick to explain about it while Jack and Raf is embarrassed, clearly nervous on how the Leader was going to react.

When Miko finishes her explanation, the trio becomes melancholy, reminded once again that they have no father to celebrate it with, which began the argument in the first place.

The three were expecting Optimus to brush past them and go back to work, but instead, it aches Optimus' spark and he can't bear seeing the children sad and depressed. So what does he do? He allows them to celebrate it with him! And then he adopts them! :)

They were Shocked and surprisingly excited that the Autobot Leader would be willing to spend this depressing day with them. Fathers day was usually all about honoring fatherhood and paternal bonds, so they mostly ask about the good old days on Cybertron.

It was neither extravagant nor boring, but it was all that Optimus or the children asked for. Someone to listen and someone to look up to.

Gladly, Optimus told them stories and the happy moments on his home planet. It stretches all day and the children couldn't help but feel content and happy. Optimus was able to fill up a fatherly hole in their hearts and they were glad that Optimus became a dad just for them. Even if it was just one day.

Eventually, the end of the day has come and Fathers day was just hours away from being another, boring day. Miko decides that they havent done the traditional 'making breakfast for fathers' in the morning, so they make a quick dinner for Optimus.

Though Optimus can't eat any organic food, he watches them fondly as the three create a 'nice' dinner for him...even if they do set the base kitchen on fire and burn the food, but its the thought that counts!

From then on, Optimus is more attentive in the children's lives and tries to fill in the father role they need and the trio look up to Optimus when they need fatherly advice.

Despite they were worlds apart, both physically and mentally, they were family and thats what mattered the most.

Happy Father's day!