#the wastelands but its cybERTRON

[wifeguycyclonus]

legit tho, I’ve been thinking hard about what redeeming Megatron would look like and what parts of him actually need to change to count as redeemed, especially in series where the war starts because of class oppression and abuse and his initial reaction is correct

[1244950]

Bay! Optimus in the comics has a wildly different backstory then compared to other versions of Optimus (and had a better characterization then in the films). In the IDW! Bayverse continuity there was no Orion Pax. Optimus was literally always called Optimus just without the title of prime. He was hidden away from the Fallen because he was the last of the dynasty of the primes so he grew up knowing nothing about who he was.

Cybertron during this time was already a desolate wasteland with little to no life with cybertronians being separated into tribes. Sentinel Prime finds Optimus and recruits him into his "autobots" alongside Elita One, Megatron, and Shockwave (Ironhide joined way later). Their goal was to find the allspark and restore life to Cybertron. They succeeded and the planet was reborn.

It was here Sentinel revealed Optimus's true heritage and that he was destined to succeed him as leader of the Autobots. Optimus being the noble leader he is turned down this position and decided to uncover Cybertron's artifacts. Megatron however had overheard this conversation and of course history repeats itself. (You can read the wiki to learn more its super interesting!!)

[witchofthesouls]

I would love to see you write some more culture differences between the bots and humans. If you wouldn’t mind :0 I wish we saw some in TFP

Same here. I love seeing world-building and deep lore, especially with other fantasy/sci-fi civilizations.

TFP gave us so much and so little at the same time. It's like going to a restaurant, you have a drink and great appetizers, so you're constantly waiting for the entrée that isn't coming!

TFP is also really fascinating when looking at it with the lens of the caste system and its deep roots within and among the 'bots, even their reduced circumstances. I get the feeling that Optimus is way more casual in way with his team than what the decorum would demand, even with his barriers.

The Autobots would find human cityscapes as quaint. Even the dense sprawls of megacities with towering high rises are paltry reminder of what they're used to.

Cybertron was a planet where its wilds had been tamed. Either reshaped or completely stripped. The Wastelands is/was an apt name for the baren landscapes outside the established city-states.

It wasn't just a large difference in public transport and zoning and sheer scale. It was also the functional design and architecture.

City-states mimicked the layouts of Titans' ground alt-modes. They didn't sprawl outward. Those had set perimeters based on Titans' outer defenses. Instead, the cities expanded up or down.

It wasn't limited to just a parking structure or secretive bases. Whole levels housed entire communities of what castes resided there: occupations, hospitals, sewage, refineries, restaurants, entertainment, and so much. Some mecha go without ever seeing the sunlight or feel real wind, especially those at the lowest of the system. The lowest castes are set all the way at the bottom, among ancient tech and dilapidated buildings. Sorting and recycling what could be kept and what must be sent back to the upper levels.

The concept of "open to the public" would confuse the Autobots. The Golden Age operated its society under the strict overview of a caste system, which expanded to "where" and "what" individuals of a caste could access.

Monster truck rallies fall under bloodsport to them. Bulkhead once scavenged money to watch and do small bets at high-stakes drift racing and lower-tier gladiator matches below the ground. Mecha still had to pay entrance fees to it.

Parks were under the Artisanal caste. Blending murals of legends, careful tending to fauna that are functionally extinct that was tailored to the agreed aesthetic, live music from specific pupils of masters, playing on instruments that merged with the gardens, so it was difficult to tell what was a tool and a plant or animal. And entry to any of it was only allowed for certain castes.

Universities were thriving, self-contained communities, and major points of power. No one off the list would be allowed into its grounds. All visitors and short-term guests were deeply screened and monitored. There is no such thing as "dropping by." Everything is meticulously planned and prepared. Unless a faculty member personally vouches for a guest, they must heed the numerous rules or a risk permanent banning.

Academia had long since been territorial over its talents and quality of its programs and people. They refuse to allow anyone outside its jurisdiction to bully one of its own. No matter the rank or caste, it will close its inescapable jaws around an outsider.

The fact that someone could go to a private university and simply jog upon its grounds is mind-boggling to the 'bots.

As well as libraries and their courses and workshops. So anyone can go? Anyone?! Everyone has access to the knowledge!? Can anyone simply go join a seminar on local gardening? Anyone can just go to a playground and start swinging or playing basketball or flying a kite or dancing to music? Anyone?

Bulkhead had a lot of questions for Jack and Raf since they're locals compared to Miko.

"So anyone can go?"

"Yeah. I used to spend my recess looking up bird anatomy and Ancient Greece and Egypt."

"You had a thing for ancient civilizations?" Raf asked.

"Doesn't everyone?" Jack shrugged. "Pharoahs and gladiators and old gods? We ate that up with mystery books or Goosebumps."

"I read Sherlock Holmes and the Chronicles of Narnia."

"Those are classics. Hey, did you get into The Lo-"

"Hold up," Bulkhead cut in, crouched down and leaning more forward, as if sharing a secret and quietly ask, "So anyone?"

"Yes. Anyone." Jack repeated, rapidly firing off each point with a finger. "Their family. Their friends. Their classmates. Their coworkers. Their pe-"

"Even, let's say, a construction worker. He could just go inside and pick up, I don't know, quantum physics? Anatomy of any frames? Gardening?"

"Sure." Raf squinted and moved to wipe off his glasses with his sleeves. "Clubs and people like to donate more to expand the base. Some of the college professors even leave early editions of their textbooks." Raf readjusted his glasses and beamed. "It's for easier access people and for an industrial copier."

"Oh..." There was a wealth of meaning in that small noise.

"You..." Jack struggled on the concept. Perhaps giant metal aliens didn't need books and could download information from their own internet. "You don't have libraries or schools?"

"No. We did." Bulkhead sighed. "I just wasn't allowed into them."

Out of all of them, Miko would be the to come the closest to understanding them in some ways. 出る杭は打たれる. The nail that sticks out gets hammered in.

As a transfer student from Japan, Miko does have instances of culture clashes with her American classmates and host family.

She's loud. She knows that. But Americans are a different breed with no restraint. In some ways, admirable. In others, incredibly frustrating.

Miko is used to a far heavier workload with long hours after-school and a busy city life. Jasper qualifies between a small and large town that she can't walk around easily on her own with the blazing heat and bitter cold nights and the lack of a car or a bike.

Detention in the US is a joke to her. Stay in school after it's over? She's used to doing that back at home with clubs and cleaning it. On a Saturday? Same thing. Some clubs back home ran long hours over the weekend. Do homework? She already finished it during lunch or between classes because she wants all the other time to herself and the 'bots.

Because Bulkhead gets a realization just how free the kids' social mobility is, he tries to get on Miko over her scrapping at school and her assignments, especially after Ratchet's high jacking their science projects resulted in failure. And that was another strange blow since Ratchet is a medic and a scientist. She's smart and quick and can be rough around the edges and so everywhere, and, to him, Miko deserves everything she could want in her short life. (And wasn't that also a terrifying concept to grasp? To just live and die under a single vorn?)

At first, Miko was getting annoyed because it's similar to the well-meaning nagging her host family does, but she reads the worry he has, and they have to really sit down and speak and soothe over his misunderstandings.

It comes as a huge surprise to her that Bulkhead can just download a language into him. Context and colloquialisms would be missing, and he needs work because he's a mix between extreme formality and, much to her delight, yakuza. And it's all because of her own frustration that English is her second language.

[datcloudboi]

List of Video Games Turning 10 Years Old in 2024

Alien: Isolation

Assassin's Creed: Rogue (the one where you play as an Assassin turned Templar.)

Assassin's Creed: Unity (the one set during the French Revolution.)

Atelier Escha & Logy: Alchemists of the Dusk Sky

Azure Striker Gunvolt

The Banner Saga

Bayonetta 2

The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth

BioShock Infinite: Burial at Sea (the DLC where you go back to Rapture)

A Bird Story (a sort of spin-off of "To the Moon")

BlazBlue: Chrono Phantasma

Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel! (is this a sequel to 1 or a prequel to 1? I forgor)

Bravely Default (in North America)

Broken Sword 5: The Serpent's Curse

Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare (the one with K*vin Sp*cey)

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2 (to date, the last new Castlevania game to release)

Child of Light

The Crew (going offline at the end of March)

D4: Dark Dreams Don't Die (a wonderfully strange game from the guy that made Deadly Premonition)

Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc (in North America)

Danganronpa 2: Goodbye Despair (in North America)

Dark Souls II

Deception IV: Blood Ties

Demon Gaze

Diablo III: Reaper of Souls

Disney Infinity 2.0

Divinity: Original Sin (from the team that would go on to make Baldur's Gate 3)

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Dragon Age: Inquisition (the winner of GOTY at the very first TGAs)

Drakengard 3

Earth Defense Force 2025 (EDF! EDF! EDF!)

The Evil Within (from the creative director of Resident Evil)

Fable Anniversary

Fairy Fencer F

Far Cry 4

Freedom Planet

Guilty Gear Xrd Sign

Hyrule Warriors

Inazuma Eleven (in North America. And digital only.)

Infamous: Second Son (as well as its expansion, First Light)

Kirby: Triple Deluxe

The Last of Us Remastered (just one year after the original version came out...)

The Legend of Korra (the game from PlatinumGames that you can't buy anymore)

Lego Batman 3: Beyond Gotham

Lego The Hobbit

The Lego Movie Videogame

Lethal League (from the team that would go on to make Bomb Rush Cyberfunk)

Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII (the third and final chapter of the Final Fantasy XIII trilogy)

Lisa: The Painful (yes, really)

LittleBigPlanet 3

Lords of the Fallen (not to be confused with Lords of the Fallen, which came out in 2023)

Mario Golf: World Tour

Mario Kart 8 (the original version)

Metal Gear Solid: Ground Zeroes (the prologue to Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, which came out 18 months later)

Middle-Earth: Shadow of Mordor

Might & Magic X: Legacy

Murdered: Soul Suspect (it's like Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective, but not as good)

Natural Doctrine

Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty! (a from the ground up remake of the first Oddworld game from 1997)

Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures 2 (yes, it got a sequel. I don't know how or why.)

Persona 4 Arena Ultimax

Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth

Pokemon Omega Ruby & Pokemon Alpha Sapphire

Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy (the last time that Professor Layton himself was the protagonist. At least, until the New World of Steam comes out)

Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney

Pushmo World

Risen 3: Titan Lords

Sacred 3

Samurai Warriors 4

Shadowrun: Dragonfall

Shantae and the Pirate's Curse (the 3rd one)

Sherlock Holmes: Crimes and Punishments

Shovel Knight (yes, really)

Skylanders: Trap Team (the 4th one)

Sniper Elite III

Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric

Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal

South Park: The Stick of Truth

Steins;Gate (in North America)

Strider (the one from Double Helix)

Sunset Overdrive

Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and Nintendo 3DS (or Smash 4 for short)

Tales of Xillia 2

Tales of Hearts R

The Talos Principle

Theatrhythm Final Fantasy: Curtain Call

Thief (the reboot)

This War of Mine

Toukiden: The Age of Demons

Transformers: Rise of the Dark Spark (this game merged the storyline of the War for/Fall of Cybertron games with the storyline of the Michael Bay movies. I’m not joking)

Transistor

Valiant Hearts: The Great War

The Vanishing of Ethan Carter

The Walking Dead: Season Two

Wasteland 2

Watch Dogs

The Witch and the Hundred Knight

The Wolf Among Us (sequel this year!)

Wolfenstein: The New Order

Yaiba: Ninja Gaiden Z

Yoshi's New Island

[vihattu-thethoroughbredofsin]

Some thoughts about Cybertron in the Transformers One trailer (SPOILERS!)

I was most interested in the shown state of Cybertron in the trailer. Instead of the rather familiar image of a metallic futuristic and technologically advanced planet, the trailer shows a completely different state of the planet's surface. There is some kind of organic life here, and it looks interesting.

Many compare it to Cybertron from the endings of BeastsMachines and Cybertron (Galaxy Force) and the Cyberverse. But I won't agree. In the first case, the idea was that Cybertron, for the sake of balance, should combine its wild distant past and present, creating a techno-organic unity, in the second case it was a symbol of the rebirth of the planet and the return of power to Primus, and in the third it was a rather lazy and crooked way to show the world of Cybertron, which worked incomprehensibly and contradicted itself. At least that's how I understand it. Here, one gets the impression of a completely different idea.

The surface of Cybertron looks to be covered with organic plant life, not techno-organic, and this is interesting, given that most of the ground looks to be made up of metal and crystalline structures.

But most importantly, this vegetation looks somewhat wrong, but in a certain sense. It's like it doesn't belong here.

What I mean by that. Some of the plants look natural, while the rest looks out of line with the rest of the environment and even other vegetation. And this is not about the quality of the graphics, everything is just fine here, and therefore it seems to me that this impression is made intentionally.

Here is an example where plants look organic (first 3), and where they no longer combine with the place of growth (next 3).

And the appearance is strikingly different, as if these plants are not from the same biome, which leads to one thought, but more on that later.

On the other hand, animals, they are obviously completely metallic and mechanical. And, interestingly again, we see only these deer or antelopes, no flocks of birds or insects on the background, some small animals.

All this gives me the impression of a kind of post-apocalyptic world either at the stage of dying or at the initial stage of rebirth. Most of the territory is a wasteland of metal and ground, and the plants seem to be in separate oases. This may hint either that plants are gradually taking over the planet after a cataclysm, or that life is gradually dying on the surface.

We see the ruins of buildings covered with vegetation and the bodies, presumably of the Primes, also overgrown with some kind of plants. But all this does not look peaceful and whole.

At least there is an artificial danger for representatives of the fauna.

And since the Quintessons are definitely involved in the plot, I have two ideas about what's going on.

1. Techno-organic quintessons alter the planet for themselves and create suitable conditions and an ecosystem for themselves on the surface. This explains why the plants look so different, the Quintessons could have imported them from other planets or their native home. This would explain why antelopes resemble our animals so much, they could have been created under the impression of the fauna of other worlds. The ruins of the buildings could belong to transformers, who were enslaved and driven to live and work underground. Or transformers were also created in the image and likeness of someone as a workforce.

2. The planet was originally organic. Quintessons could fly here for resources or in search of a new home and begin to cyberform the planet, gradually killing organic life that remained only on small areas of the surface. At the same time, antelopes can be mutated or cyberformed animals that are gradually exterminated by the shown protection system. The buildings could belong to the alien race that originally lived here. At the same time, transformers can be a workforce created by quintessons.

This is definitely a very interesting and new look at Cybertron and the past of this planet, and it seems to me that the authors of the cartoon clearly decided to show Cybertron like this for a reason, there is an idea behind it.

Well, let's wait to see what happens.

[alduinprime]

My AU version of the great Optimus Prime, leader of the Autobot Coalition.

The Prime is renowned as the noble and courageous leader of the Autobot cause against the Decepticons in their war for the future of Cybretron. But personally, he’s just trying to be the person he aspires to be and focusing on doing the right things regardless of status. Carrying himself as a modest, compassionate, and optimistic individual who seeks the good in others. On the battlefield, he leads from the front, taking the fight to the enemy. Though, more out of a much deeper obligation than just being the leader.

He also commands his own team of his most trusted allies and closest friends, Team Prime. Optimus knows his limitations, so he constantly looks to them for their advice and individual skillsets.

Despite his beloved leadership, some questions arose around him; how did Cyberton’s first Prime in eons ascended from the shadows, who or what was he before, etc.  Zero record of him exists within all archives, nothing. Few claim to recognize him from the gladiator pits of Kaon, fighting alongside the arena’s nameless champions. Optimus never talks about his background with anyone, not even Elita.

In fact, he refuses to open up about anything. As Cybertron became a metallic wasteland and the losses worsened, he felt the most responsible, even in moments when circumstances were out of his control. This instance has taken a toll on him and whenever he is offered help, he replies by changing the subject and wearing a smile. And it’s only gotten worse as the war continues.

Now stranded on Earth with his current team, Optimus works non-stop in his quest to find the Ark and Alpha Trion, all while trying to maintain morale. He hardly gets a moment to appreciate the world he was led to, but when he does, its calm and peaceful nature inspires him for what Cybertron should be once the war ends. Bumblebee’s newfound passion definitely played a hand in that. But he's not blind to the planet’s vulnerability. To avoid any further involvement with more humans, he orders his team to stay discrete. His anxiety grows every day they don’t find the ark, and they can’t try to contact Elita until then, putting both Cybertron and Earth at risk.

Optimus knows Megatron is looking for him, and a reunion on this innocent world terrifies him.

[anony-man]

Chubformers drabble #60!

Character: Overlord (IDW)

Word count: 486

(TW: implied vore - NOT FATAL)

Painted blue lips curled into a cruel smile before opening wide for the next bite, and the poor soul unlucky enough to witness the feast quivered in fear. It was tradition, forcing his captives to sit and watch as he prepared his palette for the final course. On occasion, Overlord claimed their terror added to the flavor.

“Delicious,” the fat mech grounded, reaching down to the table to grab a napkin. He grinned at the way the mech before him cowered, expecting those cruel talons to close around their throat at any moment. “Mm… I’ve truly outdone myself tonight. Would you like a bite?”

There was no answer. Only the tremble of the mech as they hid their face behind shackled servos and curled into themselves, appearing small beside the grand display of foods laid out across Overlord’s table. Overlord waited patiently until the mech had gained the courage to glance up from the spaces between his fingers, their optics bright with fear.

The air stunk of their panic, and Overlord took in a deep breath and sighed. Oh, it was positively scrumptious.

“Please, have a little bit. Enjoy yourself,” Overlord pressed. “It would be selfish of me to eat all of this myself, don’t you agree?”

Just for the fun of it, Overlord slid an empty plate across the table to where the mech sat. A small, delicate pastry was plucked up from its display between sharp fingers and dropped onto the porcelain platter. Overlord watched as the mech’s gaze drifted to the offered treat, then to him, then back again. It was risky, accepting the kind morsel. Without fail, though, his captives always accepted.

“There you go,” Overlord said, clapping his servos together as the shivering mech finally took the bait. “Enjoy yourself, please. It’s not a proper feast without hungry guests.”

Beneath the rumbling purr in the background of Overlord’s throat, his belly roared with hunger. Even he, having achieved sizes unknown to Cybertron’s kind by feeding off of the less ideal scraps of mechs that littered the wastelands of cities left behind, was still feeling hungry. The spread of little treats and candies had been a good appetizer, but the day was almost over, and Overlord’s patience was running thin.

Having had enough of his newest plaything for one night, Overlord rose from his seat. A massive and imposing sight from the start, the tons of mesh that hung in rolls from his frame merely added to the terror. He was hungry, and there was only one solution to his ravenous appetite.

“It’s been a pleasure,” Overlord said, easily reaching across the table to drag the poor, scrambling mech into his lap. “But I’m afraid you’ve come up just a bit short.”

The squirming, screaming mech was in utter terror, but to no avail. Painted blue lips opened wide, revealing a gaping maw, pearly fangs, and the rumble of a needy gut.

[floofyfungi]

"...Megatron has already taken his life, his trine, his species, and his home..."

Does star mean this in a sense that megatron started the war witch because of witch Vos is destroyed, they can no longer have sparklings or does it talk about some future event?

That line references the past. Starscream is the reason his trine joined the Decepticons thousands of years ago. The reason they fell under Megatron's command. Every pain Thundercracker and Skywarp have suffered under Megatron is partly Starscream's fault. Starscream knows this, even if he will never admit it.

Modern Cybertron is a toxic, lifeless wasteland. Even a short journey across its surface is to court death. The Great war between the Autobots and the Decepticons resulted in the dimming of the All Spark, so no more sparklings. Seekers, and every other race of Cybertron, are doomed to extinction. Regardless whether the Autobots or Decepticons win.

Starscream doesn't blame Megatron for starting the war. But he does blame him for not ending it. For allowing the conflict to spiral so out of control it has cost him, and their species, everything. Four thousand years later, Starscream's entire life is the Decepticons, and Megatron. He has nothing left to give.

Except Alexis.

And Starscream will eat his own spark before he let's Megatron take her too.

[pigeonstuffxd]

My first TF oc!! AAAAAAAAAAAAAA

Next step: Make her a ref sheet!! X3

Character background: ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Origins of Gamma-01:

Gamma-01, better known simply as Gamma, is a Cybertronian Seeker who once served as the captain of the Air Force long before the war between the Autobots and Decepticons erupted. In those earlier days of peace and prosperity on Cybertron, Gamma commanded elite squadrons, ruling the skies with her alternate form as an jet. She was born to fly, known for her unshakable calm and deadly precision. Her cold charisma inspired both respect and fear. As a leader, she was ruthless and focused on perfection, treating every mission like an operation to be executed flawlessly, leaving no room for emotion or camaraderie.

Gamma kept herself distant from the political struggles that simmered beneath the surface of Cybertron. Her only concern was honing her skills and defending her home planet. But it was this emotional distance and icy demeanor that would eventually leave her vulnerable to an event that would change her life forever.

The Accident That Changed Everything:

During a routine mission long before the war, Gamma was leading a patrol to inspect ancient energy infrastructures in the Wastelands, a hazardous region filled with forgotten technology and unknown dangers. What was supposed to be a simple surveillance operation turned into a nightmare when a long-dormant device buried deep underground suddenly activated.

An invisible energy pulse struck Gamma directly, instantly disintegrating her wings. The blast destabilized her internal circuits, causing permanent damage to her transformation system. Her wings, vital to her ability to transform into an alt mode, were not only physically destroyed, but the neural circuits that controlled them were irreparably damaged.

Despite the efforts of Cybertron's top engineers, it became clear that her wings could not be restored or her symbiotic connection with her alt-mode repaired. The mysterious weapon had damaged her internal matrix at such a deep level that even the advanced technology of Cybertron was powerless to fix it. Her wings couldn’t simply be replaced or repaired—any attempt caused extreme pain and worsened her condition.

Descent into Anger:

Unable to accept this new reality, Gamma was soon relieved of her duties in the High Guard. For a Seeker, losing her wings was far more than a physical limitation; it was the loss of her very identity. Flying was her passion, her purpose. Being grounded devastated her mentally. Her once-respected reputation began to crumble, and those who once revered her now whispered behind her back, either pitying her or quietly relishing her downfall.

Gamma’s coldness turned into a smoldering anger. Iacon, the city that had once elevated her, now discarded her when she could no longer serve its purposes. Instead of remaining a shadow of her former self in a society that had moved on, Gamma left Iacon, severing all ties with her past.

Rebirth as a Mercenary:

Gamma wandered Cybertron’s most remote and desolate regions, searching for a new path. Stripped of her wings and former glory, she realized that she needed to reinvent herself. She found a new calling in the harsh, cutthroat world of the Mercenaries. Among others with no allegiance, Gamma honed her ground combat skills and developed new strategies. Although she could no longer transform into an jet or take to the skies, she became a feared warrior on the ground, combining her military discipline with an acute sense of tactics.

Her intelligence, ability to outmaneuver opponents, and ruthless efficiency quickly made her one of the most sought-after mercenaries for dangerous, high-stakes missions. She carries out her contracts with cold, clinical precision, often working alone, preferring to rely on her own skills rather than on others, whom she sees as unpredictable variables.

The Inability to Repair:

The mystery behind Gamma’s inability to repair her wings remains an enigma. Some believe the energy wave that struck Gamma was linked to pre-Cybertronian technology, something older than their known history, making any repair attempts futile. Others speculate that the damage was not just physical or technological—it altered something deeper within her, something intrinsic to her nature as a Seeker.

Whatever the cause, Gamma has accepted that her wings will never return. But rather than dwell on this loss, she has reinvented herself. She no longer needs flight to be a formidable force. The skies may be closed to her, but on the ground, she reigns as a feared and respected mercenary—a cold, relentless predator driven by an iron will and the desire never to be vulnerable again.

Gamma Today:

Now, Gamma is an enigmatic and solitary figure among the Mercenaries. She pledges loyalty to no faction, choosing missions on her own terms and answering only to herself. Her coldness and charisma still inspire respect, and few dare to ask her about her past.

While she occasionally longs for the freedom of flight, Gamma has found a new form of freedom in her independence and in her mastery over her own fate. Her enemies no longer fear her for her ability to fly, but for her ability to plan and execute strategies with ruthless precision. She has become a formidable force in the shadows—a ghost of the skies, grounded but more dangerous than ever.

Gamma may no longer have wings, but in her heart, she is still a Seeker. Now, instead of ruling the skies, she controls the ground with cold, calculated precision, determined to prove that even without her wings, she remains a force to be reckoned with.

.

.

[sparrowsworkshop]

"Optimus Prime & His Feisty Little Two-Wheeler" by OneWingedSparrow

🏍️ First Draft: 2021 ⤵️

🚛🏍️ Main Tags: TFP, Arcee & Optimus Prime, Pre-Canon, Canon-Typical Violence, Mild Hurt / Comfort, Found Family Summary: A tribute to Peter Cullen for striving to always keep Optimus Prime "strong enough to be gentle," told from the perspective of TFP Arcee towards her newfound leader, when she first comes to Earth and joins Team Prime. Made for the "To Be Gentle Zine," hosted by @allsparkzines ! Please check out everyone else's stories and artwork; they're all lovely! :D Read on AO3; paired artwork here Reblogs are appreciated! ~ Arcee refused to affiliate her name with anything. The Autobot faction was her lone exception. Her former leaders left her...and, after she lost Tailgate, the only teammate who respected her for who she was...she didn’t wish to be associated with any singular bot.

Her spark was broken, and no medic fixed sparks.

But over the years...Arcee realized there was one person she could stand to fight beside. One person she could fight for. One person she could depend on, and willingly link her name to.

His name was Optimus Prime.

~

The first time his name is affixed to hers, she is jolted with shock.

“It’s the Prime’s scouts! All units, fire!” The Prime’s—the Prime’s…? Arcee trips over her own feet.

Magnus had been the one she followed. Before that, Prowl. She is a stranger to this Prime.

Sure, the moment she forsook the wastelands of Cybertron, racing Cliffjumper through Shockwave’s space bridge, she rolled straight into the ranks of Optimus Prime, who sought refuge on this rugged rock called Earth.

...but is she already counted as one of his?

Their cover exposed, Bumblebee bounds towards a farther bunker, retreating from the Decepticons’ barrage, as Optimus directed.

As Optimus directed, as Optimus ordered, as Optimus would….

Hand flipping into a gun, Arcee shakes her head and follows.

Everything she does now will be in his name.

~

The first time he delivers a speech in her earshot, she cramps her neck looking up.

Arcee knew Optimus Prime was tall, but she never stood on level ground with him. Only now does she realize how truly massive he is; the tip of the pink tiara spike atop her helmet doesn’t even reach his hip.

This mission is futile. They’ll never see optic to optic.

No one ever does, with a two-wheeler like her.

So, she gives up, dropping her gaze to the Autobot insignia emblazoned on their new base’s floor.

The same symbol embossed onto her wings. The same symbol that gleams on the grill of the Earth truck form Optimus has chosen. A Western Star, she heard the human soldiers call it. Lumbering engine, muted paint job, lackluster tires...it’s surely a far cry from his regal Cybertronian form, but he steps into the disguise humbly.

Her thoughts are wandering. She’s lost track of the speech. She forces herself to focus on her surroundings. Bumblebee, Cliffjumper, Bulkhead and Ratchet stand beside her, listening intently as Optimus continues. I’m part of the circle, she thinks, suddenly. This is new.

Will it last? She doesn’t know.

Only time will tell.

As always.

~

The first time he rolls with her, she feels her systems stall.

“Arcee,” he says. Her name lolls in the air.

She straightens her frame, flashing an urgent salute. “Sir!” “At ease, soldier.” He gets down on one knee.

This only stiffens her further; Ultra Magnus never adopted such a lax posture.

What’s more, Arcee decides, looking directly into Optimus Prime’s face is mildly frightening. Here is a Warrior who has plowed through fire and acid, shrapnel and rust, energon and terror—and captured the weight of all to carry forever. In those piercing, blazing optics, she can see the glory and the pain, the fervor and the fury, of a leader blessed by Primus….

And she knows, while she beholds, that he will brake for nothing in bringing this war to its end.

Arcee trembles under his gaze.

“I am coming with you,” he says.

Statement. Declaration. Fact.

In shame, her spark plummets to her feet. The Prime must have higher priorities than her safety. No one ever makes the effort to care. Why would he waste his time on a two-wheeler most bots look down upon?

Are you sure I’m worth it? Arcee blurts out, unheard.

Aloud, she stammers the scrap substitute:

“Sir?”

“You are in need of backup, and there is no one else to accompany you at this time. Therefore, be mindful of my presence.” Arcee wants to protest.

However, one glance at his decisive expression deactivates all argument.

You just can’t argue with Optimus Prime.

~

The first time he saves her spark, she flinches, and not from her wounds.

Bulkhead fell back. Bumblebee paused to reload.

A quick scan of the battlefield revealed only a “few” Decepticons. Her arm blades clicked from their casings. The enemy seemed distracted.

She thought she could take them all on.

Arcee speeds into the open. An ever dutiful partner, Cliffjumper attempts to provide cover fire. Dust billows in her path.

She flies, wings spread wide with the thrill of the hunt. Leap and dodge, flip and kick. Swipe and cut, scratch and slice. The Decepticons falter, unprepared for the frontal assault.

Until they get smart to her timing, and they stab her through the gut.

Her frame screams with pain. Something else roars louder.

Optimus. Her enemies freeze.

He charges, blasters smoking. Optics blazing.

They’re dead in seconds. Arcee’s lifted up, leaking energon.

Wordlessly, Optimus carries her home.

~

The first time he rebukes her, she wishes she could hide in vehicle mode.

Not hide as in “cower.” More like hide as in “transform, to then zoom away.” The best kind of hiding: speeding so no one can catch you. She’s already transformed. Engine’s running. Kickstand’s up. She’s already halfway gone.

But her wheels don’t roll.

Deep down, she knows barricading in vehicle mode while he has words to deliver would be incredibly rude, and she’s not sure she wants to disrespect him so, after he saved her tailpipe. With that, she mentally punches herself in the T-Cog, and stands up to face him.

“Arcee,” he says, so far above her, voice stern and edged. “Your judgment today was far from exemplary.”

She swallows.

“Make no further attempts to engage the enemy alone.”

“Yes, sir,” she whispers.

Those optics meet hers, once again.

“We will fight on,” Optimus says quietly. “That is a promise…

“Stay with me.”

Arcee blinks something from her vision.

If he notices, he says nothing.

~

Now, whenever he summons her, she’s alert and prepared.

“Arcee, with me.”

She nods, and falls into step beside him.

Though one step for him is many for her, they march in the same time.

His massive, towering form no longer feels as looming or daunting as it did. She’s learned to rest in his shadow, to trust he will shield her. She’s not sure why she grew so comfortable with his presence so fast, but perhaps his mannerisms influenced this transformation.

He stands tall to intimidate, but not to belittle. He bends down to her level more than anyone else. In battle, he never abandons her. He even looks back for her, when his extensive strides travel farther than her shorter limbs can reach. And when he sends her ahead to scout, hidden well in lofty places, she always finds him watching for her when she returns with a report.

Quiet things. Subtle things.

Little things a great, big Prime needn’t trouble himself with.

But he wants to.

He cares.

So, when he says “With me,” she follows...

Because the little things have shown her that he is someone worth following.

~

[timetravelersdoctor]

What would tfa autobots reaction into seeing TFP decepticon's?(Starscream, Soundwave, Knockout, Breakdown, Shockwave and Arachnid) And what are their reactions into finding out that TFP megatron turn TFP Cybertron into a wasteland?)

Hi Thank you for the Ask!

TFA Optimus: Optimus's first thought after meeting Starscream is "why are you still alive? How are you alive?" He immediately pegs Soundwave as the sanest person in the Tfp Decepticons team. Optimus doesn't interact with Knockout all that much because Knockout likes to playfully flirt with him. Breakdown is his favorite Tfp Decepticon because he doesn't talk down to Optimus. He's weirded out by Shockwave so he wouldn't talk to him if given the chance. he's never met Arachnid but the Tfp Autobots told him how dangerous she is so he's a little afraid of her. When he learned about what Tfp Megatron did to Cybertron he was shocked and disgusted at his actions it makes him glad that Tfa Megatron is smarter than That.

TFA Bumblebee: He thinks Tfp Starscream is more annoying than him. Tfa Bumblebee once witnessed Knockout flirt with Optimus and decided to make his life a living hell. (he's not good enough for Tfa Prime in Bees optics) Bumblebee is jealous at how tall Breakdown is and often tries to climb him when given the chance. He avoids Shockwave as much as he can, he refuses to interact with him. He had a run in with Arachnid and had to be saved by his Tfp counterpart, the others don't know and now he's terrified of her. Bumblebee thinks soundwave is creepy. After hearing about what Tfp Megs did he kinda freaked out. he doesn't understand why anyone would do that to their home.

TFA Bulkhead: He see's Starscream as a larger version of Tfa Starscream. Bulkhead sees knockout as someone who takes their physical appearance very serious (not vain but close enough) he does try to curb some of Tfa Bumblebees antics though. He would like to have a conversation with Breakdown to understand why he joined the Decepticons just out of curiosity. Shockwave confuses him. He doesn't know how to feel about someone with no emotions. Bulkhead saw Arachnid once and he thinks she's insane. he finds soundwave to be a quiet individual that is dangerous if you make him mad. He got angry when he learned that Tfp Megatron caused the death of Tfp Cybertron, he can't understand what would push a person to make such a stupid decision.

TFA Ratchet: Tfp Starscream is another annoyance in his optics and if he had to choose which Starscream to deal with he'd pick Tfa Starscream. Like Optimus, Ratchet thinks Soundwave in the sanest of the bunch. Ratchet helps Bumblebee annoy Knockout (not that anyone besides Bumblebee knows that. No one flirts with his kid and gets away with it especially if they don't mean it.) Ratchet thinks Breakdown is a little dense. He sees Shockwave as a huge threat to the safety of the Tfa Autobots. Ratchet plans on making sure Arachnid can't hurt anyone the second he gets a chance. Tfp Megatron is on his slag list I think that's enough said.

TFA Prowl: Prowl enjoys messing with Starscream using his holograms, Its his favorite activity. He feels Soundwave could probably take down the Autobots on his own if only his loyalty to Tfp Megatron wasn't holding him back. Knockout is very vain in his optics and Prowl takes advantage of that... a lot. He finds that Breakdown seems to want to fight him one on one and he doesn't know why. (Hmm... I wonder <- sarcasm). Prowl thinks Shockwave is an idiot for his experiments. he plans to help Ratchet with Arachnid if only to make sure the rest of the team has less things to fear. Prowl had to be physically held back from going after Tfp Megs and getting himself killed after learning about what happened to Tfp Cybertron.

[drill-teeth-art]

Since you think about cassetticons, and Frenzy and Rumble specifically, a lot; do you also consider their relations with Soundwave, not just between the two? Related, are there any Soundwave ideas and headcanons you'd like to share, perhaps? = 3

I don't post that much of my writing very often other than summaries of my plot ideas and headcanons, but I actually have been writing about a cassettes and Soundwave origin story just in my spare time for fun! I'll put an excerpt from that under the cut with some other headcanons! But in summary, my headcanon is that Soundwave met the cassettes it carries over time on Cybertron before the war.

First it met Ratbat, who is older than it and an appraiser of spare parts and vintage gadgets. Ratbat took a liking to it and decided to stick with it on its personal quest to find some other cassettes to work with too. Then they met Rumble and Frenzy in a stretch of wasteland separating the duo's old work site from large Cybertronian cities. The two had been crossing the wastes in search of a Cybertronian legend of a cassette home city that would be safe and welcoming to them. During their journey, they had the displeasure of working with a handful of scummy carriers who screwed them over, so they were extremely skeptical of Soundwave at first. But it was the first carrier they met to already have a cassette, so they decided to give it a chance. Soundwave was very surprised when they first leapt into battle to protect it as Ratbat kept it out of the way for emergency repairs. But it had been patient and compassionate as they grew to trust it, so they protected it. Down the road, it met Ravage and Laserbeak and Buzzsaw. I'm still ironing out headcanon details on Soundwave meeting those three, but they also boil down to Soundwave just being an all-star carrier who is sweet to its cassettes.

The Arrival: Soundwave + Cassettes Fan Origin Story (excerpt) content warnings: mentioned betrayal by unnamed carrier, mention of injury and repair, (if there are other content warnings I should add for this excerpt, feel free to let me know)

Ratbat descended towards a small, makeshift camp a ways outside of town and set them down gently before touching down on the ground beside them. They both wobbled a bit on their treads, so Ratbat took them each by a hand. “Come on. Soundwave will get you each a generous portion of energon and look you over for repair,” Ratbat said and approached the tent. Rumble wrenched his hand free and grumbled a bit. “Repair?!” “Yes,” Ratbat turned his head to face Rumble and looked at him quizzically. “You both look battered. You should at least let Soundwave check your vital systems.” Frenzy whined a bit. “Can’t you do it?” “Yeah. I don’t want any carrier’s, good for nothing, articulated servos poking around my hardware, got it?” Rumble hissed. Ratbat understood their anxiety. He knew it wasn’t about Soundwave. They hadn’t even met Soundwave yet. They seemed to have been brutally betrayed by their last carrier, so he figured they wouldn’t be too keen on a new one. But they did need repairs. “I can only do so much as I’m not a repair specialist. Soundwave is excellent at cassette repair, so I think you should let it give you a look. I promise, if you say to stop something, it will. And I’ll stay there with you the whole time.” The two cassettes still looked skeptical. “It repaired my reels recently,” Ratbat told them. Reel repair was a very delicate process. The cassettes knew that very well. They only had their reels repaired once or twice at their old job site, and they hadn’t let a single carrier do it for them. Ratbat nodded when they looked at him with surprise. “Yes. One of my tape reels slipped out of place when I was blasted out of the sky by some trigger happy jerk,” he explained and the two cringed at the thought, knowing how much that hurt. “But Soundwave put it right back in place. Not a bit of damage to my other hardwave. See?” He opened up a panel on his chest plate for them to see. They leaned in a bit. His reels were neatly in place, and Frenzy pointed a bit where a few small parts had been replaced since the replacement parts were a lighter color than the rest. Ratbat nodded again and closed up his chest panel. “That must’ve taken a few cycles…” Rumble said, surprised at the skilled repair job. “Indeed,” Ratbat replied, smiling softly. “But Soundwave cares very much. And as you can tell, it took the time and effort to do the repair just right. So I assure you, if you allow it to do your repairs, it will not harm you.” The two cassettes looked at each other and nodded a bit. “Where’s this Soundwave bot? We wanna meet it,” Rumble asked. “Just through here. In the tent,” Ratbat gently took Rumble’s hand and led both cassettes inside the large tent. Rumble and Frenzy were surprised to see Soundwave right inside. It probably was close enough to have heard the whole conversation, and the cassettes weren’t sure if it had tuned it out or not. When they entered, it turned its head some to face them. They flinched a bit. It was the biggest carrier they’d ever seen. “As I told you over our frequency, these are the bots who were at the auction house. They need some energon and probably repair as well,” Ratbat nodded at Soundwave. Rumble was about to protest that they didn’t need anything from any bot, but he felt his fuel tank grumble and kept his mouth shut. Soundwave nodded at Ratbat and then took out and offered Frenzy and Rumble each a full, big cube of rich energon, something they’d never even seen before. Rumble accepted the offered energon excitedly. He figured he should be more skeptical of the fuel, but he was too low on energy and tired to care. Frenzy grabbed his arm to make him wait for a second, holding their cube in their other arm. He paused as they dipped their finger into their cube to test for hazardous materials. They waited for a few seconds and pulled their finger out. They nodded at Rumble, signaling that it was clear to drink, and they both started to eagerly drink the energon.

End Excerpt

I realized I hardly got into my Soundwave specific headcanons. Mostly focused on the relationships in this answer, but I hope you enjoy :D Thank you for the ask!

[shychangling]

One wish I have as a transformers fan is to get Combatron in depth. If it is a blasted wasteland I am thinking Mad Max meets Transformers, if not a blasted wasteland than a world with cultural beliefs very similar to Beast Wars Dinobot’s.

OH MAN SERIOUSLY I really need to get my hands on the book that apparently has a short story about it. I wanna know about King Atlas more and his abduction by Unicron.

I wanna know more about UT Whirl and his loyalties. I wanna know about the war there were things that went to shit the moment they lost their king.

I wanna reaaaad it.

Its such a shame it never made it to the Cybertron cartoon.

Honestly Dinobot would be perfect to place in either Jungle Planet (which I am calling Animatron) or Combatron if he was a UT character.

[witchofthesouls]

The look on Megatronus/Megatron's face if and when Orion/Optimus snaps and goes full wilder in front of him. Claws and fangs extend and he fucking mauls someone or something. Better yet if the big if occurs on cybertron feral mode Orion/Optimus ends up with the Fragging Escaped Mountian Lion from all those vorns ago headbutting Orion and purring up a storm while Megs watches slacked jawed as Oppy talks to it in fragging mountain lion.

I'm sad to say that Orion Pax doesn't have the features that allowed him to thrive in the Wastelands.

Alpha Trion had firmly coaxed the newly named Orion Pax to modify parts of his frame to 'fit in better' with the rest of them. The extra bulk was taken away, the sharpened denta filed down with added suppression codes to ensure nanites wouldn't try to reconfigure it, claws pulled to make sure he only had access to blunted digits, took away the extra audials, and applied more cosmetic biolights to give off a more rounded, softer appearance that belonged to a mecha that developed inside the walls of Iacon. Alpha Trion knew exactly what would happen and proceeded to take the steps to ensure the ascension of Optimus Prime would come to pass. Orion Pax can not be too associated with his Wasteland roots. The current Council wouldn't tolerate a new Prime with pride as a Wilder.

I have a lot of thoughts about Alpha Trion. He's exhausted, depressed, and is a very dutiful, loyal spark. He will enact what the Covenant had shown him because surely Primus and Vector wouldn't lead him astray? Orion Pax may have reminded him of simpler days before his siblings had scattered, but the mech has a massive role to play in the rebirth of their planet, and he refuses to jeopardize it.

Umbra Pumas are able to travel short distances with shadows and communicate via telepathically in pictures via direct eye contact. That one in particular was an old companion to a Ranger that almost taken him. Unfortunately, they were separated by a flash flood, but Orion knows that pattern on its hide. Rangers use specific concoctions to permanently mark their companions for affiliation. This Umbra Puma has subtle dark blue and crimson striations over its torso as well as patterned scars around its optics to match the ones on its Ranger. This one personally would carry him by the scruff and nuzzle him into submission. A sparkling's claws and fangs are no match to its dense hide.

Umbras are silent group hunters but can be very vocal with their close cohorts. Their screaming vocalizations are absolutely terrifying if you're not used to them.

Orion Pax was near the dugouts -space reserved for the next troupe of performers as well as their invited support for wishes or goodbyes- when it Tamers had to drag it back to its cage. The moment it came across him, it lurched forward and howled-

The gladiators and performers were ribbing (both good-natured and ill-tempered) that it could smell the uppercaste mech among them. Meanwhile, Orion is reeling from the mental assault because poachers managed to catch it in its desperate attempt to lead them away from its wounded Ranger and other young sparks.

Orion basically made quite a few deals to ensure that Umbra's escape.

[shi-daisy]

Detour

Late to the party but it was my largest fic so I plead innocent! Lol sorry, anyway I was but stuck on this entry cuz I had zero ideas until it hit me that the Ulquihime/Wavewave AU could work for this. Having both otps interacting its so fun I might do it yearly like the Reunion AU. Hope you all like!

*Fic is set after A Different Reality & A Blissfull Vacation both from the same AU.

@ulquihimeweek

Ulquihime Week Day 3- Wasteland

Detour

They'd done the process so many times Ulquiorra knew something was wrong when he woke.

This time the universe hopping felt heavy as if their entire body struggled to function. Whereas other times felt as if they blinked and were suddenly reunited with their friends.

"Aw, My head. This trip was rough."

Ulquiorra took a step back when he heard his wife's voice come out of someone else's body.

Orihime no longer looked human, but rather she was an orange Cybertronian. Her eyes were still silver and her hairpins had become pieces attached to her new head.

"Ulquiorra?! What happened to you?!"

He touched his own face to feel it was also now made of metal. His body too was green and black and made of metal, he felt as if he had wings again but they were different from those of his resurrection.

"This can't be...We...We've become Cybertronian."

Orihime looked to the side and her silver eyes turned wide. "Maybe that's for the best. Otherwise we wouldn't survive here."

He looked back to see a glimmering glowing gigantic city. It looked exactly like what Soundwave described.

"We're on Cybertron..." Ulquiorra whispered.

"But how?! Does this mean the war is over? Is that why we're here?!"

"I don't know. Either the war ended or it has yet to start. Otherwise the planet would be the wasteland Shockwave studied back on Earth..."

A beeping sound startled them both. It seemed that even in this new form, Urahara could still contact them.

"Ah, hello hello! I see the machine has changed you. That wasn't supposed to happen."

"Kisuke-San! Not only do we look like this, but I think we jumped in time! What are we going to do?"

"No need to panic Inoue-San, You just need to find Shockwave. He'll be able to bring you back in no time. I shall take care of the twins until you return."

"Then we must go to the city. Hopefully we shall see you soon." Ulquiorra told him.

Orihime held our her hand and he took it. Be it metal or skin, he would always feel bliss upon being touched by his dear wife.

***

Despite her worries, Orihime couldn't deny she was utterly fascinated by technically being in an alien planet.

The mechanical sounds that could've been deafening otherwise, the ungodly amount of flying machines that she now knew were literally alive flying through the sky instead of walking, and the absence of humans, flora and fauna were so different from Earth that she couldn't help but want to take it all in.

"I see Astronout Inoue is enjoying this." Ulquiorra smiled when he saw her giddy expression.

"Yes! I never thought I would ever explore an alien planet or that it would look like this. I'm wondering if you and I could transform too! Do we even know how?"

"Considering you have wheels on your back I'm guessing you'd have vehicle mode."

"You bave wings, then that means you're a flyer."

"From my physique alone I suppose I'm a seeker."

"Like Starscream?"

"Don't ruin it, dear."

She laughed at her husband's comment. Though she knew he was fascinated by all of this too.

They finally managed to find a city map, but sadly it was in Cybertonian. Orihime remembered a few words, courtesy of Soundwave's lessons. She identified the word Prime in one of the info squares, but given she couldn't read the name before it they were still unsure as to what time period this was.

"If Optimus is the Prime this is either during the war or after our friends lost it. If it's Sentinel is before and if it's neither the war might be over and won by out friends."

"I can't say for sure, but I think the first letter of the name would be an 'S'"

Their suspicions were confirmed as they saw a familiar purple vehicle speed by them, while being pursued by a police car.

"Prowl and Biteback?" He asked.

Orihime nodded. "That means this is before the war began. We should look for Shockwave in his academy."

"Despite not sharing the keen interest you both have in science I've always wanted to see the Jhiaxian Academy of Advance Technology."

"I think we're influencing you then."

He chuckled and kissed her forehead. "Indeed you have."

She thought the walk there would be easy, after all things, were supposedly peaceful. But just as Soundwave often said that peace masked some ill intentions, they were just tucked away well for a while.

"We've only been walking for two blocks yet I've seen sentinels all over."

"Yes. I'll admit I didn't expect so much hyper vigilance."

Ulquiorra pulled her close by wrapping an arm around her waist. Orihime leaned into his touch as they finally arrived at their destination.

"Think this is the right place?" She asked.

"You won't get away with this you glitch!"

She recognized that voice, although now it sounded far more playful even young. 'Stormsurge?!'

Her old bot friend looked the same, save for the heaviness he and all of the others carried during the war. She almost didn't recognize who he chased out of the Academy until she glanced at his red eyes and purple paint. 'Is that...Tarn?! Stormy was right he did look nerdy.' She stiffled a laugh as she saw the old rivals fighting in their youth.

Even more familiar faces were there for her to see when she glanced at the academy door. Thundercracker and Skywarp were there making bets on who would win this match.

"My money's on Stormy."

"Nah Damus is getting this one."

"My guess it's all of you will go back inside and cease the nonsense!"

Another bot arrived and while Orihime didn't recognize his face she knew that shade of violet all too well.

"Now come on, away with you! If you keep fighting like that I'll have you clean Weeljack's lab."

All of the other bots scurried back inside but the purple stranger noticed them. "Hello, may I help you?"

"We're looking for Senator Shockwave." Orihime tried to keep her tone calm, still she felt herself grow tense as she hoped she'd be given a different answer from the one she expected.

"Ah well you just found him. What can I do for you?"

She froze. This wasn't the Shockwave she knew. He still had his face and both pretty golden eyes. His smile was bright and sweet just as Soundwave had described him before he was tortured. Orihime wanted to warn him, but before she could Ulquiorra spoke.

"We have a request, but I think we have to explain ourselves first. This might take a while."

***

When it came to their robotic friends he usually got along best with Shockwave and Orihime with Soundwave. This version of Shockwave however, he was so similar to her that he could've sworn they were siblings.

Knowing this made it all the more difficult to process that the bot would end up just like he was during his centuries at Hueco Mundo.

"Organics traveling from a future alternate universe to our own, it's simply brilliant! Oh I would love to see how you look in your original form but anything organic would simply perish under this planet's atmosphere."

"It would be due to the radiation or simply the size diffrence?"

"Both could be factors...Oh sorry you were here for assistance and I've been talking non-stop, I'm just very excited."

"No problem. It's good to see you like this..."

He heard the sadness in Orihime's voice as she commented. Thankfully their purple friend was too prepcupied with finding the tools he needed to assist them.

"There. I think I can send ya back home swiftly. We'd have to go to my house however, as that lab more equipped to deal with high magnitude projects."

"Then if you allow us we'll be happy to accompany you home. Truth to be told were both enjoying this visit. Seeing things it's not the same as experiencing them."

"Is that so? Well then, I'll give you a tour as we reach the mansion!"

That seemed to lift their spirits in a small way. The walk back to the house seemed short but they stopped often to gaze at whatever place Soundwave had told them about on their previous meetings.

The library, the hospital and even the plaza were all there exactly as described by Soundwave on earth. Their friend really knew how to set ambiance.

Upon arriving at the mansion, Orihime be seen gasping at the look of it all. "It's so pretty! Ulqui, dosent it look like Las Noches?"

"The arquitecture is different but yes the color and feel are similar. Shockwave I say you and my old boss have the same taste in decor."

"Well thank you, glad to hear you find it familiar."

"Shocky? Is that you?"

Again they both froze upon hearing the younger softer voice of another dear friend. Unlike Shockwave, Soundwave was completely unchanged. His paint, look and optics were all the same, save for the fact he wasn't wearing a Decepticon insignia.

'Because it hadn't happened yet.' He thought.

"Yes Soundy it's me! I brought some friends over who require my help. Are Sunny and Cade around?"

"Unfortunately no, they're out with the cassettes, but I'll lend you a hand."

"Well you two, let's work to get you back."

***

"Those two really like to chat no matter the circumstances. " Orihime mused out loud.

Ulquiorra and Soundwave were chatting away while she and Shockwave kept on organizing the machinery. She managed to hear a little bit of their conversation.

"You're the one who pushed me to confess. It's thanks to you we're conjuxed in the future so please do remember to encourage me when I'm back in my squishy form." Ulquiorra told him.

Soundwave laughed and gave a thumbs up. "I'll do my best."

"I take it we're all close once we meet again?" Shockwave asked, noticing her smile as she stared at them.

"Yeah, we are close."

The feeling of closeness was not diminished by the change in circumstances. If anything she was overjoyed to finally see Shockwave like this. So calm and happy, and with his body and face unmarred by scars that would last milenia.

The pretty technological planet had been a delight to visit, but she differed with their blue mech friend when he said it turned into a wasteland during the war. 'Any planet that does something so callous to a bot like Shockwave is a wasteland regardless of beauty. I'm just glad things didn't come to that in the Soul Society.'

"Hime?"

"Sorry I was just...thinking. Shockwave there's something I should warn you about your future."

The purple bot raised his hand to stop her.

"Don't. Anything you tell us might affect the future and put you and Ulquiorra in danger. I won't allow that.

Whatever has to happen. Let it happen. I know well what we're all getting into with this conflict."

She hugged him tightly. "Just let me say, that you'll be okay reagerdless. He'll never stop loving you, and the same goes for you to him."

"Then that's all I needed to know."

***

Hugs were exchanged as Shockwave quickly sent them back home. In the blink of an eye they were back in Karakura.

"Good to see you both. Had to ask some babysitters for help with the twins."

Ulquiorra smiled upon seeing Shockwave and Soundwave in their human forms, carrying Kokoro and Sora.

"Took you five million years to get back. I used to wonder when we first found you why you looked like those cute bots we met back home. Now I know why." Soundwave laughed. "Should've stayed a seeker and replaced Starscream."

Ulquiorra smiled and took his daughters back. He then glaced at his smiling wife. "I appreciate it, but I think I'm much happier here as an organic."

"Good choice. This seems prefera-" Shockwave was cut off by Orihime tackling him into a hug. Even in human form he did have his trademark blank expression. "Inoue, you'll hurt yourself if you keep glomping people like that."

"It's just good to see you again...I'm glad you're still here."

"I told you. I would be fine as long I had him with me. You feel the same, don't you?"

"Always."

[themovieblogonline]

Transformers One Review: A Thrilling Return to Cybertron’s Origins

Josh Cooley’s Transformers One reignites the spark of the Transformers franchise by returning to its roots—literally and figuratively—with a highly engaging animated film that explores the early days of Optimus Prime and Megatron. The film is an ambitious origin story, shedding light on the birth of two of the most iconic characters in science fiction while providing fans with a detailed history of Cybertron, the home planet of the Transformers. With dazzling animation, an all-star voice cast, and a plot that dives deep into the lore of the franchise, Transformers One balances nostalgia and innovation, making it a thrilling watch for both long-time fans and newcomers alike. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jaVcDaozGgc Story: The core of Transformers One is the relationship between Orion Pax (voiced by Chris Hemsworth) and D-16 (voiced by Brian Tyree Henry), who would eventually become Optimus Prime and Megatron, respectively. The film excels in establishing this dynamic, presenting Orion and D-16 as friends who are drawn to the mysteries of Cybertron and the legacy of the Primes. Their bond, built on mutual respect and shared hardships, forms the emotional backbone of the story, making the eventual fracture between them all the more heartbreaking. Without spoiling specifics, the transformation of their relationship from allies to bitter rivals is handled with nuance, giving depth to Megatron's descent into villainy and Orion’s rise as a symbol of hope for Cybertron. Writing: Cooley and the writing team, consisting of Eric Pearson, Andrew Barrer, and Gabriel Ferrari, craft a compelling narrative that feels more personal and introspective compared to previous entries in the franchise. By focusing on Cybertron’s political corruption and a deepening civil war, the film sets itself apart from the typical Earth-bound action seen in most of the live-action films. The inclusion of lesser-known lore elements, such as the role of the Quintessons and the Primes, adds richness to the world-building, creating an engaging backdrop for the more intimate story of betrayal and ambition. A visual feast: Transformers One is visually stunning, and the animation style perfectly complements the epic scale of Cybertron. The vibrant yet industrialized design of the planet is both beautiful and harsh, reflecting the decaying state of Cybertron as it struggles to survive without the Matrix of Leadership. The film’s art direction is superb, as it captures the grand architecture of Iacon, the depths of the mines, and the desolate wastelands with meticulous detail. Each environment is distinct and immersive, allowing viewers to feel fully transported to this alien world. The character designs deserve special mention as well. Optimus Prime, Megatron, and the other bots are given a fresh, sleek look while staying true to their classic forms. The animators clearly took great care in crafting the transformation sequences, which are fluid and dynamic, showcasing the versatility of the Transformers without feeling repetitive or mechanical. Each transformation feels earned, a culmination of tension in the action sequences, especially when the Autobots and Decepticons first come into being. Chris Hemsworth nails it: The voice acting in Transformers One is top-tier, with Chris Hemsworth and Brian Tyree Henry leading the charge as Orion Pax and D-16. Hemsworth delivers a grounded and thoughtful performance as Orion, portraying him as a character full of idealism and a desire for justice but burdened by the weight of leadership. His transformation into Optimus Prime is emotionally resonant, making his eventual rise to heroism feel all the more rewarding. Henry, on the other hand, brings a complex layer of gravitas to Megatron’s character, making him both sympathetic and terrifying. His portrayal of D-16’s gradual descent into tyranny feels believable, driven by a mixture of frustration and ambition, giving us a villain whose motivations we can understand, even if we don’t agree with them. Scarlett Johansson and co-stars: Scarlett Johansson shines as Elita-1, lending both strength and vulnerability to the role, while Keegan-Michael Key provides much-needed comic relief as B-127, who would eventually be known as Bumblebee. Steve Buscemi’s Starscream is the perfect blend of scheming and cowardly, making him an entertaining presence whenever he’s on screen. The supporting cast, including Laurence Fishburne as Alpha Trion and Jon Hamm as Sentinel Prime, round out the ensemble with performances that heighten the sense of grandeur and stakes. Themes: At its core, Transformers One is about the duality of leadership and the choices that define heroes and villains. The film explores how power can corrupt, as seen in the downfall of Sentinel Prime and D-16, while also emphasizing the importance of hope and unity, embodied by Orion Pax’s rise as Optimus Prime. Thematically, the film delves into the consequences of ambition, the fragility of friendships, and the struggle to maintain one’s ideals in the face of overwhelming adversity. The decision to focus on the internal politics of Cybertron and the conflict between Autobots and Decepticons gives Transformers One a layer of complexity that elevates it beyond a simple good-versus-evil narrative. The moral ambiguity surrounding Sentinel Prime’s betrayal and D-16’s rise as Megatron injects the story with tension and makes the climactic moments more impactful. By the time the final battle unfolds, the stakes feel real, and the emotional payoff is satisfying, even as it sets the stage for future conflicts. Action and pacing: As an action film, Transformers One delivers the fast-paced, high-energy sequences fans expect. The battles are well-choreographed, utilizing the transforming abilities of the characters in creative ways. From underground skirmishes in the mines to full-scale battles in the heart of Iacon, the film keeps the adrenaline pumping without sacrificing character development. The final showdown between Optimus Prime and Megatron is especially noteworthy for its emotional weight and spectacle, underscoring the personal stakes of their conflict. The pacing of the film is well-balanced, with moments of introspection and character development interspersed between the action scenes. The film never feels rushed, giving viewers enough time to absorb the intricacies of the plot while maintaining momentum. Overall: Transformers One is a triumphant return to form for the franchise, offering an exciting and emotionally resonant origin story that fans have long been waiting for. With stunning animation, a strong voice cast, and a plot that dives deep into the lore of Cybertron, the film is both a love letter to long-time fans and a fresh entry point for newcomers. While the film may lean heavily on exposition at times, it more than makes up for it with its rich world-building and character-driven storytelling. Read the full article