#those in favor of continuing on to cybertron

[random-kido]

Ough I've been trying to figure out how to word this but I'm just gonna try to wing it if that's ok fgfgfh

I think that if the decepticons had won the war the scavs would more than likely still have been in the same predicament they were in when the war ended in the comics.

My minds kinda blanking right now on exact instances, but anytime the cons were at their strongest, megatron was never at his kindest. If he had won I think he'd send out a similar "war is over" message with the addition that thry had won it, and the simple "come home" attached at the end. I don't think he would have sent anyone out to go look for stragglers or for their dead, more than likely making people stick around to ensure his continued rule and to help rebuild cybertron how he saw fit.

The scavs would still be on a graveyard planet, only their post fulcrum awakening conversation would be a lot different I think. Probably more talk about how things are finally gonna get better for them only for a question (from fulcrum probably) of when someone was gonna be sent out to go get them followed by them having to explain no one was coming for them and they'd still have to find their way back home on their own.

I think their hijinks would still happen and they'd still be stuck wandering space facing obstacles to get back, but I feel the only main difference would be that flywheels would still be alive and grim probably wouldn't be there as I don't think the djd would have missed the opportunity to go see megatron claim cybertron as his own. Actually maybe they'd take grim with them anyway. Sign of loyalty to megs or whatever but thry befriend him on accident and are left with a conundrum.

Due to the cons winning though I think the djd would be a lot more hell bent on catching anyone on the list to ensure megstron's continued rule, so I do think that eventually thry would have to face off against them, one way or another. This would be their big stand off instead of skorponok I think.

But due to how much shit they faced trying to get back, seeing how their fellow cons are just becoming worse and worse, and how the closer they get to home, the bigger their opponents are (from their own team no less), I think they'd still ultimately come to the decision that maybe going back to cybertron isn't for them. Maybe they'll just decide to stay on the nearest con outpost where no one cares that grim is with them and settle there until they decide they want to keep wandering space.

Unfortunately the scavs are ultimately bottom of the barrel cons and even with the win being theirs, I do believe they'd stay down there even if their expectations were much more different

Saw a post on here not too long ago about certain IDW guys in a Decepticon-win scenario and one of the guys on there were the Scavengers and I'm just like... how WOULD that actually work like its intriguing but I genuinely have zero clue how that would go, they're like of those tf things that can only really be done properly in a post-war thing yknow?

[lord-squiggletits]

I think another thing that annoys me about how prevalent it is for people to read MTMTE/LL and nothing else, is the fact that JRO's depiction of Cybertronian-organic relationships is slanted so heavily in favor of Cybertronians portraying organic aliens as tyrannical racists killing colonies for no reason (Galactic Council, the Black Block Consortia) that love torturing Cybertronians because they hate them so much and don't see them as sentient (that dude who was selling Cybertronian torture dolls to alien races).

And like, something that happens as a result of people only reading MTMTE/LL is that they get this idea in their head that it's Cybertronians who are oppressed by the rest of the galaxy. And an unfortunate.... take that I see as a result of this ends up with stuff like Decepticon/Megatron apologists trying to frame technoist colonialism as basically Cybertronians trying to strike back against being unfairly persecuted and being seen as lesser by alien species? They don't always explicitly say it as such, but I've seen a lot of people try to downplay the whole technoism and colonialism thing by framing it in context to organic racism and how both sides are equally bad or something like that.

Which is not fucking true because if you actually were to read exRID and OP, you would know that there are multiple Cybertronian colonies throughout the galaxy that were created by razing previously occupied organics planets, that Nova Prime (one of the original 13 Primes and the first Prime to rule a united Cybertron) wanted to conquer the entire galaxy which led to the creation of cold construction in the first place, and that the reason organic species hate Cybertronians so much is because Cybertronians were the first ones to go out and start conquering other planets millions of years ago.

It's even more infuriating because you don't even need to read other comics besides JRO's to know this! Tailgate and Cyclonus were from Nova Prime's time and the whole "yeah during those times we liked going out on a fun journey to kill organics for fun hahaha" is brought up at least a couple times in the series.

[tf-cyberaligned]

What is the after life like in Cyberaligned?

The Afterlife

So, there will be some context added into this bit of lore.

Cybertronians did not have a structured religion for the majority of its history before the Quintessons invaded. Cybertronians knew of Primus, the Guiding Hands, and the Primes as their supernatural beings. Primus was their god, and the Primes and Guiding Hands were the demi-god/disciples of Primus.

Primus gave the planet life, both by creating life and by fueling life. He was the start and end of Cybertron.

The Guiding Hands played a role in Cybertron's afterlife, with Mortilus. She is essentially the Cybertronian Grim Reaper of my continuity. She keeps records of how each Cybertronian passes, which many fall under the same fate due to the war. When she is done recording, she passes her duties off to the Thirteenth.

The Thirteenth is the calmest of the 13 Primes. He holds no real physical body, and floats between the metaphysical realm and the real world. His job as a Prime is to guide the newly separated sparks into the afterlife. His presence radiates peace, easing the wary souls of the Cybertronians who passed. He leads them to the River to the All Spark, similar to Charon in Greek Mythology.

The River to the All Spark

It is a metaphysical space, not having a true physical realm in the real world. Here sparks of deceased Cybertronians travel through an Energon river, returning back to Primus' core.

The after life of Cybertron is meant to be one full of peace. Sparks can reunite with those who passed before, and former grudges and rivalry are forgotten in favor of quietness.

No one alive truly has seen this place before. It is said that if you see the river, you are marked for death by Primus.

However there are also scriptures saying that seeing the river, and being unable to cross, means that your spark will never be at peace. Primus has marked you unworthy of joining him, and you must atone for the sins you have committed against him.

[blueikeproductions]

So prior to the release tomorrow, a sneak peak of “S3” spotlighting Prowl who instantly chummy with the other Autobots, but instantly cruel to Megatron who looks hurt and embarrassed.

It’s both caused those who’ve seen it to be excited as “Racist IDW Prowl” returning, and harkens to many older cartoons like Teen Titans having the stock “racism episode”.

“It’s worse than we thought, Poindexter, we’re stuck in a cartoon with morals.”

-rubs temples-

Ok. So once again EarthSpark’s writers seem to misunderstand racism allegories. Or perhaps Transformers as a whole does.

It’s complicated.

So stuff in the 80’s cartoon would imply the Decepticons are a separate species in their own right, sort of like classic D&D when monsters like orcs were the defacto evil species.

The cartoon would further reveal the Decepticons being their own race was true, as they descended from “military hardware” built by the Quintessons. It’s a bit muddled how much the Decepticons contributed to the great revolt that saw the Quints chased off Cybertron, as the cartoon chooses to explore it in the POV of the Autobots’ ancestors.

The Marvel comics would flirt with this a bit, with the Furman penned Gene Key arc of the ReGen One continuation revealing the Autobots and Decepticons do possess genetic differences that Scorponok wishes to exploit.

So the racism allegory should fit in ES, right?

Well no.

Outside of the Beast era, which also implies the Maximals, Predacons, and (in a roundabout way) the Vehicons are all distinct species and TFA implying a similar concept, this idea of the Transformers’ factions also functioning as different biologically distinct species tends to be ignored most of the time. (…Except for the Mini-Cons and Terrans…)

Veteran fans in particular have expressed annoyance at this species concept, preferring the Autobots and Decepticons to instead be more politically driven.

And so that’s been the defining characteristic largely going forward, that the Autobots and Decepticons are more like aggressive political parties that can’t agree on anything, but still leaning towards the older concepts of the Autobots wanting peaceful protest and change, while the Decepticons want to blow it all up, the devil with anything in their way.

IDW2 in particular saw the Decepticons start off as a political movement called the “Ascenticons” who wanted to rise up from Nominus Prime’s Energon rationing that was put into place after the devastating War of the Threefold Spark that saw the kibosh put on the Spacebridge program. Megatron didn’t very much care for that, despite being a young soldier in that war, and wanted the Transformers to escape those shackles and run colonization unchecked throughout the galaxy, as it was their right.

The terrorist group, Rise, were also managed by Megatron in secret, trying to nudge things in his favor, with the Ascenticons and Rise formally coming together as the Decepticons to stage a coup d'état.

EarthSpark makes it clear the Transformers weren’t created by the Quints, so they’re not Goods or Hardware here. It’s not particularly clear if there even IS a generic difference here. It feels like the intention in ES was the more modern political-ideological differences, but then S2 implies there might be a racial difference with the “Cons will be Cons”. So not even the show can make up its mind on what exactly the Autobots and Decepticons are in-universe.

Prowl’s dismissal of Megatron kind of reminds me of Rattrap & Dinobot’s exchange of barbs in Beast Wars, and in a way, that should be more what this relationship is like for Prowl and Megs.

The difference so far is Megs seems more legitimately hurt by it, and isn’t fighting back verbally like Dinobot would. And after TFONE, it’s rather foreign that Megs would take Prowl’s skrud like that.

Depending on where this goes, it feels like the writers are trying to channel the alien that called Starfire a “trog” or Malfoy calling Hermione a “mud blood”, but it kinda comes off instead as Prowl going “Ew what’s that Republican jerk doing here?” Prowl is honestly justified at being disgusted at Megatron even being here, as let’s remember, Megatron still started the war that decimated Cybertron. It doesn’t really matter he suddenly feels bad about it, that’s countless lives lost on Cybertron alone because of his actions. So the Autobots and Maltos being so chummy with Gruncle Megatron is still kinda unnerving. Again it’s like they want him to be Vegeta, but without Vegeta’s abrasive Saiyan Pride dictating things.

The problem remains that EarthSpark’s staff are largely Decepticon sympathizers, and similar to IDW, the problem is magnified more by the Autobots rightfully annoyed at Megatron getting away… So much so that Getaway’s own coup in getting rid of Megatron and his sympathizers was technically justified…

Until Roberts realized Getaway was correct, that didn’t fly with the trajectory, and had to instead write him as a psychopath with delusions of being a Prime, among other things…

-sighs-

T’be honest this is one of those times I wish Roberts got his way early on and we got Blitzwing and Powerglide as the couple and Quickswitch in Megatron’s role because this would’ve saved us so many headaches in the long run.

[dynared]

I've been hammering on Transformers Earthspark a lot lately (partially because I think the Energon Universe has shown the fandom there's a better way to bring in new fans and excite older ones), but even beyond the superiority of the Energon Universe and the hope it gets animated one day, something I've discussed with people that annoys me about it is that while the show is not devoid of good ideas, it often pays mere lip-service to them, and is shockingly insistent on tackling concepts it does not have the ability to tackle. Case in point, an episode around Kali of all things.

Kali, for those of you who don't know (because it's not like Earthspark bothered to explain it!) AKA Arnis or Escrima, is a Filipino martial art based on both weapons and hand-to-hand combat, favoring sticks and knives. It actually became popular in the martial arts community when Dan Inosanto, a student (some would argue the most prolific student) of the late Bruce Lee, began teaching it alongside Jeet Kune Do as part of his "JKD Concepts", an attempt to expand Bruce's Jeet Kune Do with additional ideas from other martial arts. The old Fight Quest show on the Discovery Channel tackled Kali in its second episode, showing training methodologies and the philosophy behind the art with the two hosts, including an ending where the hosts have to engage in sparring with stick fighting, which is as rough as it sounds.

Now Kali gets bought up in Earthspark as part of Alex Malto's Filipino background, but the show does virtually nothing with it, other than Alex waxing poetic about his heritage in one episode and then hitting a few Arachnamecs. You'd think that the idea of training the Terrans in a native martial art would have a lot of potential, especially since Cybertron in certain continuities has martial arts, particularly Metallikato and Circuit-Su. But instead, the concept is dropped almost immediately, making it seem like mere window dressing to show that the show is "diverse" rather than actually having some substance with the main plot.

The idea seems pretty simple to integrate. Have the Terrans be put in a situation where they would deem learning a martial art necessary, either a poor performance on the field, their instructors telling them that their skills in close-range-combat are poor, or being forced to fight someone like Bludgeon or Drift, a Metallikato practitioner who the Terrans feel outmatched by and who Alex volunteers to train in kali so they can fight their opponent on an even footing. Hell, that could be directly linked to the whole issue of culture, with the Terrans finding kali far less flashy than Metallikato and kind of lame, only for its effectiveness to show itself in combat.

And while Kali isn't the only example of such, it's probably the biggest example of the issues with shows that are surface-level in their concepts, and why Earthspark seems to have utterly failed to capture the imagination of kids and casual audiences.

[sonicasura]

TFP x Knack, Ratchet would probably have a robot aneurysm trying to figure out Knack, Bumblebee would definitely become brother #2 (with the tfp kids probably adding to the sibling numbers), Optimus would be dading all over the place, and Miko is probably bombarding him with questions, but what about the Decepticons? I imagine they'd be appalled by his existence, or try to snatch him. They'd probably get their scrap rocked though.

They found out about Knack right after the kids joined as he became quite well known after the first game. Miko and Raf are fans to put it simply so a discussion about our hero was bound to happen in base. The bots were immediately perturbed considering Knack's chest looks a bit too much like a Spark Chamber. (Imagine seeing someone with their heart, a very vital organ, exposed if I have to describe it.)

Ratchet already had difficulty trying to use relics and sunstones since these power sources are a bit tricky to handle unlike others. So Knack is a bigger walking conundrum for him. Anyway, the bots decide to ask Fowler a favor as Optimus' believes the chest orb keeping our hero together might actually be Cybertronian in origin.

I figured the Doctor needed a bit of a break from dangerous first greetings for this one. He wasn't expecting a government agent to show up at his home so suddenly. Nor for Fowler to reveal the Autobots' existence to him, Lucas, Charlotte and Knack. However Optimus believed the group would be at risk of Decepticon due to his greatest creation.

One analysis by Ratchet later, Knack is officially the first youngest unconventional Sparkling in Cybertronian history after their eons absent. Bumblebee is officially no longer the baby of the group and takes it in stride whenever the golem's present. Knack gives him more opportunities to act like any normal young person than just a soldier.

Optimus is absolutely running on fatherly behavior however there's actual foundation to this. Knack's chest orb isn't just Cybertronian in origin but has a solid connection to the original Primes. This makes him kin to Optimus in a mystical way. It isn't uncommon for the gentle giant to teach Knack about Cybertron's history.

Miko fully believes our relic hero should be a wrecker. Knack is a gentle sweetheart but we can't forget how much damage he can cause even if accidental. She convinced him to play Cybertronian games with Bulkhead in her stead and hasn't regret it since.

The Decepticons definitely want to capture Knack upon discovering his existence. I don't think any of them see our hero as an abomination though. Megatron and Starscream do hate that he was made by a human. (Prime's organic xenophobia isn't as bad as Animated.)

Considering Knack can grow up to 32 ft in size(TFP Optimus is 30 ft while Megatron is 35), utilize sunstone/relic energy, and incorporate other material to bulk up... He absolutely beat the shit out of the cons. Look at the second and third giant bosses in Knack 1 then tell me otherwise.

Megatron/Soundwave/Predaking will fair better than the other Cons but our hero definitely give them a run for their money. Those three and Shockwave also want Knack alive instead of dead. Our hero is still Cybertronian in origin so he should be on their side, not helping organics.

Soundwave's claim on Knack has to do with his cassettes as Lazerbeak is the only one he has left. Predaking believes the golem could be Predacon in origin and thus kin to rule over. Shockwave is pretty obvious considering the mad emotionless scientist he is.

But yeah, Knack definitely added a lot more reason for both factions to continue fighting.

[theforestghost]

The Consort and The Warlord Ch12

Summary: Megatron uses the All Spark to gain access to Cybertron and demands a peace treaty. An Autobot Consort is offered and Optimus is chosen. A Bonding Ceremony takes place and now Optimus has three vorn to figure out exactly what Megatron wants to do with Cybertron.

Pairing: Optimus Prime x Megatron

Continuity: Animated

Status: Ongoing

The clang of metal against metal resounded across the training room as the two occupants sparred. Despite how they echoed, Optimus kept his focus on Megatron and nothing else. The slight shift of Megatron’s swords, the sudden loss of pressure that was meant to catch him off guard and lose his own stability, the smoldering look when Optimus didn’t fall for it and instead readjusted his position and pushed back. All of these took up every bit of processor power that Optimus could afford. He had to ignore the smirk and warm swell of his warlord’s field in favor of preparing himself for whatever move would be made next. But just as many times before, Optimus found himself facing harsher and harder attacks and that his attempts to turn around the situation he’d willing let himself get into were completely shattered when he felt the wall of the training hall against his back kibble.

“It would seem I’ve won again.” Megatron chuckled, amusement lacing every glyph.

Letting out a small swear, Optimus found himself thoroughly pinned with Megatron above him, adding enough force to keep Optimus from escaping, but not enough to hurt. Meeting the larger mech’s optics, Optimus couldn’t look away from him. Megatron was watching him intently, the confident smirk gone and replaced by an unreadable expression that caused Optimus’ vents to hitch. He was suddenly aware of just how close they were and despite having shared a berth for several vorns, the level of intimacy in this scenario was almost overwhelming. 

Optimus wasn’t a fool when it came to his own feelings. He knew he was attracted to Megatron, that his spark pulsed brightly every time the larger mech looked at him. That no one had ever made Optimus feel so incredibly safe and wanted compared to Megatron. That deep down, Optimus wanted Megatron to have all of his attention on him and him alone. For those ruby optics to watch every move he made, for taloned digits to trace every seam and wire along his frame. To be held flush to that broad chassis and fall into recharge to the sound of the other’s spark pulse. It was painfully selfish and straight out of a cheap romance story that Megatron would probably laugh at if Optimus told him.

But oh that laugh would be a dream to listen to. Deep and resonating from within the warlord’s chassis, vibrating everything around him and sending shivers through Optimus’ struts and wires. That deep voice against his audial fins, whispering sweet nothings and praises until Optimus’ professor was filled with fuzz and unable to create a coherent thought. And maybe, just maybe he could feel Megatron’s derma against his own, warm and careful, exuding every ounce of self-control Optimus wished Megatron didn’t have. 

But he couldn’t. Not without know how Megatron truly felt about him. Optimus knew his desires were incredibly selfish and inappropriate to have. Megatron has showed him so much kindness, so much respect and Optimus would not ruin it with his own desires for something more. He also had no expectations that Megatron truly liked him like that. Their bonding was political, despite the issues that were now presenting themselves with the Autobot faction, Optimus wouldn’t overstep that boundary. 

Unaware of his consort’s inner turmoil, Megatron leaned in closer, optics never leaving Optimus’ as he brought their helms to touch. He lowered his swords, giving Optimus the space to escape should he need to. Megatron has been interested in Optimus since the moment they met, but that interest had grown into attraction towards the young mech and recently Megatron had realized that those feelings were now affection. 

While Megatron thoroughly enjoyed their cycle by cycle routine, he wanted more. He wanted to hold Optimus as close as possible when they recharged at night, to feel him pressed against his plating and the warmth it promised. He desired to keep Optimus by his side at all times, fearing that if he let the little one out of his sight for more than a klik that he’d vanish. Or worse, return injured and broken as he had once before. Megatron wanted to see Optimus shine brightly, to succeed in his endeavors and to laugh like their were no problems in the universe. 

And it took every ounce of Megatron’s own self-control to not just capture Optimus’ derma with his own. To kiss the smaller mech until his entire faceplate flushed brightly and his finials flicked so quickly that Megatron couldn’t resist biting them. But he refrained and simply closed his optics as he kept their helms together and reveling in the closeness they currently shared. A closeness that Optimus didn’t seem to mind as Megatron noticed his position relax and his grip on his axe faltered. Megatron was barely holding onto his own swords as he took in the very existence of Optimus.

Megatron opened his optics and found Optimus had closed his own, a sign of trust that Megatron never thought he’d feel so relieved to see. With a deep invent, Megatron let his systems continue as he brought a servo to Optimus’ faceplate, covering the now healed cheek plate. He traced the spot gently with his thumb and when Optimus opened his optics at the touch, he smiled softly at the younger mech. Optimus returned the smile and leaned into his touch, nuzzling the palm of his servo gently, peaking at Megatron and it took every ounce of self-control for the warlord to not smother his consort there and then. Instead Megatron let his thumb trace those pouty derma that teased his sanity.

Megatron threw caution to the wind, leading down and ready to claim Optimus’ derma with his own when the door to the training hall opened loudly and a bellowing Lugnut interrupted them.

“MASTER! IT IS TIME FOR THE MEETIN-“ Lugnut stopped himself and stared at the two mechs in the room.

Megatron had Optimus pressed against the wall, weapons discarded and fields buzzing with warm and fluffy emotions that were suffocating the atmosphere of the training room. Even Lugnut could understand that he had interrupted something he shouldn’t have and promptly closed the door without another glyph. Which would have been nice if Starscream hadn’t barged in the next klik and began screeching at the warlord for his lateness to a meeting he’d scheduled.

“Why aren’t you in the meeting room! I finally arrived from Vos and you dare to be absent!?” Starscream screeched, completely ignoring the atmosphere around him. Honestly, if the twitch of his wings said anything, Starscream was perfectly aware and very irritated by it.

Megatron scowled, glaring at the seeker as Optimus took up hiding behind him in embarrassment. The warlord wanted nothing more than to throw the shrieking flyer out on his aft and continuing where they had left off, but the meeting today was important and the sooner he got it over with, the less he had to listen to Starscream.

“Enough.” Megatron said sharply, causing Starscream to close his intake, but if the crackling irritation of the seeker’s field said anything, he was far from done complaining. “Return to the meeting hall. Optimus and I will be there shortly.”

“Very well, Lord Megatron.” Starscream emphasizes the title with disdain. He was not happy at how easily he’d been dismissed but he did give Optimus a slither of his attention. “At least that’s Autobot consort of yours seems capable of warming your berth.”

Optimus flushed hard at the implication that those glyphs meant but Megatron let out a growl that was closer to a snarl as he stepped between Optimus and Starscream, keeping his smaller bonded out of sight. “Leave, now or I’ll have Lugnut escort you back.” Megatron threatened. This seemed to work since Starscream flinched and looked away slowly.

Without another glyph, Starscream left the training room, leaving Optimus and Megatron alone again but all of the tension in the room was long gone, replaced by Megatron’s annoyed field crackling and Optimus’ tightly wound field that pulsed warmly still. With his faceplate hidden behind his servos, Optimus tried to calm down his panicking spark as he recalled how Megatron nearly kissed him. And they got walked in on… twice!

“Optimus?” Megatron asked, his large servo placed gently on the smaller mech’s shoulder kibble. Optimus turned to him quickly, flushed to his audio finials as he realized that Megatron had called his designation more than once.

“S-sorry!” Optimus sputtered out. He stepped back, hitting the wall again and flinching as he’d forgotten that he’d been back against it just a klik ago. He gave an awkward laugh as he picked up his axe and managed to get a respectful distance from Megatron. 

Said warlord was currently broken between his amusement at how cute Optimus was acting and his own disdain at having been interrupted so clichely. He’d just been about to kiss Optimus and it was clear that the mech hadn’t had any objections about it either. Megatron left a note in his processor to punish Starscream later for this blunder, even if Lugnut had been the first one to interrupt them. That oaf at least had the decency to let Megatron continue in peace unlike a certain seeker. He’d been in Kaon for less than a cycle and Starscream was already testing Megatron’s patience.

The walk to the meeting hall was quiet and awkward, at least for Optimus. His processor was running a million things at a time and he swore Megatron could hear it. When they arrived, every bot was sitting in their spots, including Starscream and Blitzwing who had been residing in Vos during the rebuilding of the city. Most of the generals seemed neutral about their lateness, but Starscream was glaring at them both, wings twitching impatiently. They had barely sat down when Starscream stood to speak.

“Since we can finally begin, I want to speak first given the fact that I have come all the way from Vos!” The mech began, placing a servo to his chassis in a huff. Blitzwing began to say he too had come from Vos but was quickly silence when Starscream began. “Now that Vos is functional, I desire my title of Winglord returned to me! It was my rightful title before the city fell and now that it once again stands, albeit in a disgraceful state, I wish to be instated.”

Optimus glanced at Megatron and it was clear that the warlord had plenty of things to say to Starscream. And if the mech’s tightly bound field and irritated optic twitch anything to go by, they weren’t pleasant things. But instead, Megatron let out a deep ex-vent and addressed Starscream and a calmer demeanor than what was probably deserved. 

“Your Winglord title will be restored to you. Shockwave will need the appropriate paperwork-“

“I’ve already sent it to him.” Starscream interrupted.

This time Optimus heard something break but once again, Megatron answered with practiced patience. “Then in the next couple of cycles you will have your title and can promptly return to your duties in Vos.” The warlord stated, turning on his data pad to hopefully find something else to talk about.

“I believe a celebration would be appropriate given this.” Starscream continued. “Since I am not expecting any official ceremony given the state of the towers of Vos and many of my seekers still being scattered, I believe I at least deserve some form of party or celebration to congratulate me on regaining my rightful crown.”

“You cannot expect us to allocate our funds to host such a grand event.” Shockwave spoke up. “Vos is still unopen to the public at this time and outside of the seekers, most do not know that your title event exists.”

Shockwave was right there, Optimus had never heard the term Winglord before. It was apparently very important to Starscream since he seemed so adamant about regaining it. Glancing up at Megatron again, it was clear that the warlord intended to give the title and be done with it and not have to stroke his second on command’s ego.

“I do not expect anything fancy.” Starscream tried to defend his request.

“You shouldn’t expect anything at all.” Black Arachnia snapped. “We barely have enough funds to cover the coil replacements that are necessary to adapt my fuel formula into both of our cities.”

“That sounds like a science division problem.” Starscream mused, completely dismissing the small femme with a wave of his servo. Black arachnia stood up, servos slamming on the table and her back appendages raised high as she let out a hiss. 

“Enough!” Megatron slammed his fist on the table, silencing the eruption of arguing that had begun the moment Black Arachnia spoke. They all sat down, including Starscream and focused on their leader. “A celebration is not unreasonable but it will not be simply for yourself, Starscream. We have made good progress in Kaon in regards to new businesses and potential Autobot civilians moving here. I believe our mech deserve a reward for their hard work and a celebration will suit perfectly.”

Starscream grumbled something about how informal such a celebration would be but was silenced by a sharp glare from Megatron. “Since you are so intent on having this, Starscream,” Megatron continued. “You will be in charge of settling the details. I will give you access to the gathering hall and the bars located within the tower but your budget is at what I give you and you will not go beyond it. There will also be no personal speeches and you are not to act like the entire party is meant for you and you alone.”

Starscream crosses his servos over his chassis but grumbled out an “Of course my lord.” Before settling down. The remainder of the meeting went by much quicker with most issues being outside of Kaon, especially in Iacon and other parts of Cybertron. Unrest continued to build up in Autobot citizens and the council had been short in any briefing or contact that was had between the two factions. There was even less and less from Ultra Magnus these cycles and Optimus couldn’t help but feel relieved but overly anxious at wondering just what was going on outside of Kaon. Megatron’s occassional glances his way were not helping.

By the end, Optimus felt oddly exhausted and it wasn't until he and Megatron were left behind that the events of their training session came flooding back. Optimus attempted to cover his faceplate with his datapad, wishing he could put up his battlemask instead. His finials flicked as he glanced at Megatron who still sat beside him, leaned back with his chin on his servo, optics watching Optimus softly. Optimus quickly glanced away before stuttering out the first thing he could think of.

"Wh-what exactly is the party?" He silently chided himself for how awkward he sounded but rushing out without saying anything seemed worse.

A deep rumble rose in Megatron’s chassis as he spoke. "It is nothing fancy nor special, at least not the one we will be having. An excuse to drink high grade is what it boils down to." 

Optimus perked up at the answer. He did enjoy high grade in a casual setting. "Can I, I mean is it alright if I go?" He fumbled again.

Megatron chuckled as he stood up, placing his servos on the back of Optimus' kibble. "I believe there will be several mechs who will be upset if you do not attend." He stated. "Our accomplishments thus far have been thanks to you as well."

Optimus flushed brightly, letting himself be led away but refusing to look up at the warlord. "I didn't do much…" Optimus said quietly. 

This caused Mrgatron to stop and turn to Optimus, causing the smaller bot to finally look him in the optic. "Optimus it is thanks to you that we are even speaking with Autobot merchants. It hasn't been exactly smooth sailing but we have open communication with them. That happened because you had the idea of giving civilians tours of Kaon, something we would never have considered." Megatron spoke firmly. "You and your team being here has given many of my mechs hope that we can safely integrate with civilians again. Seeing how content your bots are working with us, is a dream come true for many of us."

"And for you?" Optimus asked hesitantly.

"I love Cybertron, it is my home and even though I could not forgive the Council for what it put my mechs through, I do not truly hate every Autobot. Many are simply ignorant, blinded by propaganda and a false history forced upon them at creation." The look Megatron gave Optimus was hard to read, but seemed full of truth and emotions that neither expected to see. "You were ignorant too, but you learned and accepted learning and in turn I learned that I too had become ignorant of what modern life on Cybertron had become. That even though the Autobots paraded around fighting against a common enemy, that deep down the greed of the caste systems still existed. That even a loyal soldier like yourself was treated so poorly to not even be allowed to enter a shop selling simple organic mesh. That you never had an energon treat because those around you lied about them being a luxury. 

"The Council had made new victims in the time that we have left. However they grew smarter, learned to lie better and kept their citizens in a complacent state where many are only a few rows from being treated no better than we once were. I intend to end that." Megatron looked Optimus in the optic as he continued. "So yes Optimus, I do dream of a day where warbuilds and civilians can walk the same streets as equals. But I am not so foolish to think that pretty glyphs and good behavior can do so. The Council must be taken down and every bit of rust they've attempted to bury brought to light. I will not start another war, I see no need to this time, but I will fight if I have to. My question is, will you stay by side if I do?"

Megatron offered his servos go Optimus, his optics smoldering as the smaller bot placed his own onto it with no hesitation.

 "I chose your side the moment I removed my Autobot mark." Optimus spoke, giving the larger mech a small smile. 

Megatron brought Optimus' servo to his derma abd kissed the back of it gently. He chuckled at the shocked and embarrassed field that erupted from the bot, soaking in every pop abd fizz that danced around him. Even when Optimus seemed to want his servo back, Megatron kept his grip, internaly debating if he should continue to tease his consort or have mercy. In the end, mercy came in the form of a com from Shockwave and so with another swift kiss to the back of Optimus' servos, Megatron released him. 

"Unfortunately I must leave for now. I will pick you up when it is time for the party." Megatron said. He was reluctant to leave Optimus behind, but the bot seemed like he might need some time alone to think straight.

Once Megatron was out of sight, Optimus swiftly made his way back to their habsuite. Lugnut of course trailed behind him, he hadn't gained his freedom from his guard quite yet, much to his disdain. However the large warbuild was oddly quiet as Optimus entered the habsuite and promptly shut the door behind him. Safely inside, Optimus let out a large ex-vent before immediately comming the only bot he felt would be able to help him.

"Optimus? Something wrong kid?" Ratchet asked, his voice a but tired. Optimus could make out the sound of other bots talking and shouting in the background. Suddenly Optimus remembered that it was the middle of the cycle and Ratchet was most likely busy and now he felt awful for interrupting. 

"Sorry I'll call ba-"

"Spill it before I come there and make you say it to my faceplate." Ratchet snapped.

Optimus hesitated for a few nano-kliks before finallly blurting out. "I think Megatron tried to kiss me!" 

Silence could be heard from the other end until finally Ratchet let out a deep ex-vent. "So he finally stepped up?" He said, more like a statement.

"Wait, what?" Optimus stuttered. 

"I've been wondering how long it would take him to make a move on ya. Gotta admit I thought he would take longer but that doesn't matter now, go ahead and let everything out. I know you won't be able to rest until you do." Ratchet stopped to give Optimus some time to reply.

Optimus felt embarrassment wash over him but this was exactly why he called Ratchet in the first place. "Uhm, well we were sparring and he pinned me to the wall and I think he tried to kiss me…" Optimus began.

"What stopped him?" Ratchet asked. 

"Lugnut came in." Optimus said, feeling a bit unhappy thay that had happened. 

"And you didn't want him to stop?" Ratchet asked for clarification.

"I-I do-... no? Is that wrong?" Optimus asked. He was pacing across the room now. "I know we're Bonded but it was supposed to be a political bonding and I know I'm no longer an Autobot but I feel like I'm taking advantage of this situation."

"Listen kid, I can't tell you how to feel but I don't think there is anything wrong with how you feel." Ratchet said. Optimus could hear him shooing somebot away. "Megatron treats you well and it's obvious he cares about you. I'd dismantle the slagger if I thought he was treating you like scrap."

"Ratchet…" Optimus frowned.

"I'm serious Optimus, you're happy here and that's what is important, nothing else. If being with Megatron makes you happier, I say go for it. Not like you're the only civillian who's ever fallen for a warframe." Ratchet said. "Tell the overgrown warlord how you feel and I'm certain he'll return your feelings."

"You make it sound easy." Optimus said light heartedly. Ratchets rough way of speaking always made the hardest things seem simple even when they weren't. "Are you going to the party they are hosting tonight?"

"Yeah, after my shift. Deadlock wouldn't stop fussing about it." Ratchet replied. "I'm guessing I'll see you there?"

"Megatron said he would pick me up." Optimus replied, sitting down in one of their oversized chairs. 

"Are you sure you two aren't already going out?" Ratchet retorted. 

"No Ratchet, we are only Bonded." Optimus retorted. 

"Could've fooled me." Ratchet scoffed. "I have to go, some idiot just came in with his servos caught on a coil." 

Optimus winced at the injury and said goodbye to Ratchet. As he sat in the silence of the room, he realized thay he didn't know when exactly the party would start nor when Megatron would pick him up. Pondering if he should message Megatron, Optimus decided against it and instead opted to prepare early and spend the rest of his time reading through some of the contracts the merchants wanted to make with them. A quick shower to remove any dirt and dust he'd cleaned during training was followed with a half glass of energon before he sat back down and picked up a datapad.

The merchants were kind enough to offer contracts with the warframes, but many of them were obviously prejudiced against them. The earliest contracts were riddled with so many problems that Megatron quite literally threw the datapad at them and demanded changes. Now it was much better but some passages were worded still to try and take advantage of the warframes and Optimus was tasked with sorting them out. He picked up a stylus and highlighted one such that would prevent warframes from receiving help from the company should a work related accident occur. It was written in a way that made this seem like it was in their favor when it truth it was not. Optimus highlighted this segment and added notes to the side about speaking to the guild master again about that particular part of the contract. 

Optimus continued this for each datapad and it wasn't until he felt a servo on his shoulder kibble that he finally stopped. Looking up, Optimus saw Megatron leaning over him. He quickly looked around and noticed that not only had the sky gotten darker, but that he had a couple of missed messages from the mech beside him. 

"Sorry!" Optimus said quickly, placing the datapad down. "I didn't realize you'd messaged me or the time!"

"It is alright." Megatron stated, moving beside Optimus to look at the datapads on the table. He let the tip of his digit trace down Optimus' plating and relished in how his field warmed at the touch. "Lugnut informed me that you hadn't left the habsuite so I assumed that you were occupied. Anything stand out?"

"A couple of merchants still want to discriminate against you but I pointed out all of the problems I found." Optimus said.

 Megatron put down the datapads he'd picked up and offered his servo to Optimus. Taking it, Optimus let Megatron help him to his stabilizers and placed his free servo on his hip plating. Optimus flushed and looked up at Megatron who simply smirked and turned him towards the door.

"We should leave now so we are not late." Megatron said, leaning down to speak in Optimus' audials. Optimus nodded swiftly and moved forward, enjoying the warmth of Megatron’s servo on his lower back struts. 

The walk to the hall where the party was held was swift and filled with mechs and femmes scurrying about. Some were still working while others were hurrying to the party just as they were. Inside, low lights and upbeat music was drowned by laughter, chatter and shouts of drinking and celebrating cheers. High grade was passed around as cubes clanked together and frames knocked into each other. It was loud and overwhelming and Optimus felt himself get sucked in by the high atmosphere that swelled around them. If it wasn't for Megatron grounding him and guiding him towards a bar, Optimus would've gotten lost in the crowd with ease. 

At the bar, several bartenders were handing out drinks quickly and clearly not caring about mixing anything fancy. An assortment of energon goodies were laid out on the bar before them as the femme from the nice bar Megatron had taken them to before approached. 

"Welcome Lord Megatron, Consort Optimus." She said just loud enough for them to hear. "What can I start you off with?"

"Two engex, one with rust shavings and one with mercury." Megatron stated. He handed a plate to Optimus. "Fill up with whatever treats you'd like."

Optimus took the plate and practically beamed at the idea. He didn't speak, fearing his voice wouldn't be heard above the crowd but he dutifully filled the plate with treats he knew both he and Megatron would like. Once done, their drinks were ready and Megatron led them to a side table just out of reach of the crowd. Setting everything down, Optimus thanked Megatron for his drink and took a large gulp. The burn was instant and Optimus felt his joints and wires loosen easily. It was stronger than anything he'd ever had on Cybertron. Or off Cybertron for that matter. 

"How can you add mercury to this?" Optimus asked Megatron, noting the silver glow in his purple drink. 

"Must I remind you that I have far more experience in drinking high grade than you and thus have a higher tolerance?" Megatron chuckled. He picked up a jelly treat and savored it before sipping his engex.

"So you're old?" Optimus asked, sipping his drink and reaching for something crunchy. 

Megatron scoffed at the remark. "Compared to you maybe, but there are plenty far older than I in this room." He almost seemed offended at Optimus' glyphs.

"You mean Ratchet?" Optimus asked, looking around to see if he could spot the old medic.

"Exactly." Megatron stated. He spotted Strika and waved in greeting. 

The femme began to make her way towards them, reaching just as Bumblebee and Bulkhead shot out of the crowd and to Optimus' side. The little yellow bot grabbed Optimus by his arm and pointed to the crowd he'd emerged from. 

"Bossbot! Let's drink!" Bumblebee shouted, clearly already having drunk quite a bit. Bulkhead seemed much more sober but from the way he swayed, Optimus was sure he'd had some to drink as well. 

Optimus glanced at Megatron but his bonded simply waved him off to go with his friends as he continued his conversation with Strika. So without a second thought, Optimus grabbed his cube and some energon goodies and followed the two younger bots. He was practically shoved to a smaller table where a group Optimus recognized from the construction site were passing around drinks. Optimus found his cube once again full and he downed it with ease, earning cheers that only encouraged him to drink more. The world suddenly became soft and he could hear someone calling his designation but the voice sounded so far away. 

Optimus woke up to the feeling of a warm feeling of a field around him. It was familiar and made him feel safe and happy and his engines were purring as he nuzzled into it. Megatron had wanted to stay silent at the feeling of his consort against him but he couldn't help the rev of his own engine when Optimus outright purred! Said bot looked up at him, optics still glazed from the copious amounts of high-grade he'd drunk but a loopey grin was on his faceplate.

"You're very handsome." Optimus managed to speak perfectly despite being thoroughly inhibited. He reached up and clumsily tried to pet Megatron’s cheekplate but failed and smacked his helm instead. "Stupidly handsome… where are we going?"

Megatron chuckled at this and with his free servo, since he was currently carrying Optimus with only one arm! Oh that was hot! Optimus closed his optics tight as Megatron took his servo and tucked it back to his chassis. "We are returning to our habsuite since you are too incapacitated to remain there." Megatron replied. Clearly Megatron was drunk as well since he was playing with Optimus' audial fins, though Optimus didn't mind this.

"Why?" Optimus asked.

"Why what?" Megatron asked patiently. 

"Why are you always so kind to me even when I'm being unreasonable?" Optimus asked. He sat up the best he could to look Megatron in the optics. 

Megatron hummed at the question, caught off guard but feeling thay Optimus deserved a truthful answer, even if he wouldn't remember this come morning. "Because I have come to care for you far more than I have ever thought I could." Megatron said softly. "Because I was ready to face a tension filled peace where war could break out at any time until you came along and made me desire more. Because you Optimus are the most stunning mech I have ever met and had me intrigued since the cycle we met and I found myself having to have so much restraint around you so that I did not scare you away."

Megatron smiled fondly at Optimus, pulling the small bot even closer and placing their helms together once more. "Because I desire to have you by my side for their rest of our creation and I will destroy anybot who gets in our way. I will bring world to their knees if that is what you desire."

Optimus smiled happily, he didn't know how to reply, he felt way too giddy and overjoyed so he threw his arms around Megatron’s helm and leaned in closer, hoping to continue what they had started that morning. He hadn't expected Megatron to put his digit up and block his attempt at a kiss. Optimus whined and looked up at his bonded with a pout. One so adorable that Megateon almost broke. 

"I do not mind kissing you, little one, but I would prefer to do so when you are sober and able to remember doing so." Megatron chuckled. Optimus crossed his arms with a huff but didn't try again. Instead, he let the sound of Megatron’s spark lull him into recharge once more.

[paragonrobits]

I've seen a lot of discussion lately about how a lot of fandom work that is transformative towards fanfic often tends to just flatten what makes those stories unique in flavor of playing out motifs that people happen to like (example, ignoring relationships in favor of fan-favored ones that lean more towards a common dynamic), and Transformers fandom does a fair amount of this, in a variant that is specifically about ignoring canonical team dynamics and the faction's actual character in favor of a found family dynamic

So apparently its popular, especially among Optimus/Megatron shippers, to depict the Decepticons as a found family that treat Optimus right when he joins them in this fics. That on its own is not too noteworthy; i personally find this off-putting, of course, and the fandom in general has this aspect of ignoring the Decepticons canonically being overly genocidal supremacists whose internal politics tend to shift between borderline worship of a Strong Man or extreme survival of the fittest mentality. That's PARTIALLY related to why I find this particular trope confusing, but that's not the main bit.

Rather, its that the Decepticons almost NEVER (and to my knowledge, I can't think of ANY incarnation of them that averts this) have a found family dynamic. They are not kind to each other. They do not generally love each other. Even at the best of times they barely tolerate one another.

Looking at Transformers Prime as an example, early episodes yield a realizaiton that the Decepticons we see don't really have much of a grasp on positive relationships, or really any kind of relationship that isn't founded in a strict heirarchy or hostility. Knock-Out and Starscream are pretty obviously friends but they don't seem to understand that, or grasp how to interact with each other at all in a way that isn't constant low-key insults that are secretly compliments since they're not overtly hostile.

Prime DOES have a found family that don't think purely in terms of military might, or varying between slavish obedience to their grand overlord or plots to overthrow him, or have an interest in befriending the alien races among which they live- ITS THE AUTOBOTS. THE AUTOBOTS DO THIS. THE DECEPTICONS DON'T.

But this illustrates the point; you see a lot of fandom work that broadly attempts to depict the Decepticons as a noble rabble of revolutionaries opposing a corrupt dictatorship that knows nothing of love. And this is very strange in light of the fact that the Decepticons are almost always depicted as strictly military conquerors that think purely in terms of chain of command, or they all hate each other and every single one of them is secretly plotting to take over, or they're just a miserable bunch of smugly hateful assholes who have no real concept of a positive relationship beyond a strict chain of command.

The IDW series saw a particularly eyebrow-raising version of this, when you had the fandom overwhelmingly convinced that the Decepticons were noble revolutionaries seeking refuge on Earth from Autobot oppression, when in canon not only did the Decepticons quickly assume increasingly larger control of Cybertron's political functions, but even the most benign and least malicious Decepticons in the Scavengers were still so bigoted and anti-organic that one of them went on an earnest rant about, and I quote, 'cleansing the galaxy of inferior life-forms too primitive to understand how inferior they were', with the tone of a frustrated idealist.

So in short, it begs the quesiton: what drives the fandom mentality to continually reinvent stories like this to the point of virtually being COMPLETELY divorced from the source material, when honestly you might as well just change the names and functionally make it your own thing?

[heliopauseentertainments]

Dance Lessons

For MegaStar Week 2022

Day 3 Prompt: Music / Dance

Continuity: General

Rating: General

Relationship: Megatron/Starscream

Characters: Megatron & Starscream

AU: Some canon divergence, canon blending

Warnings: N/A. Please see AO3 entry for full applicable tags.

Summary: In which Starscream gets frustrated while teaching Megatron how to dance correctly.

Crossposting: AO3 | DreamWidth | Pillowfort

Fic under cut

“Stop! Stop it!”

Starscream waved his arms in offense, prying them free of clinging hands in the process. His wings flapped frantically to provide more leverage. Unnecessary since Megatron had let go, but a little show of defiance could go a long way down the road.

All the while, the upbeat music continued to play in the background. Soundwave paid them no mind as he sat with his datapad in the far corner of the throne-room, reading Primus knew what.

“You graceless oaf!”

Over these past few years, he had come to absolutely despise Kaon’s ancient “keep what you kill” laws, left over from when the province had been a mostly uninhabited part of the Darklands, before the “Golden Age.”

“I’m sick of your two left feet and your death-grip!”

He furiously pointed down at Megatron’s feet, which had mercilessly trodden on his own no less than five times in as many minutes.

Starscream hollered over his shoulder to Soundwave.

“Cut the music!”

The music stopped long enough for Soundwave to play a recorded “record scratch” noise, but resumed immediately after at a lower volume.

Whatever.

At first, those ridiculous laws had provided a legitimate foothold when their band of revolutionaries had toppled the local council and aristocrats. Slaying the province’s duke had earned Megatron the pompous bastard’s title and the right to control the walled city of Kaon and its surrounding territories. What a strange way to become a viable heir to the local dignity, but it had been convenient at the time.

Theoretically, the Cybertronian Senate still had authority here for planetary laws, but no way to enforce. They couldn’t get their goons across the borders or through the checkpoints, which the Decepticons, with Starscream’s wise counsel, had wasted no time in securing and fortifying.

Back then, Starscream’s largest complaint had been how downright ugly their fortress, Kolkular, was. An utter eyesore of imposing brutalist architecture, but it served its purpose.

A fair price to pay for a favorable legal situation. At the time.

Now, however, it was that keeping up appearances with the other, more “traditional” polities on Cybertron was an absolute nightmare.

Starscream continued scolding, wings canted high to underscore his agitation with Megatron’s lack of social—and physical—graces.

“It’s like you’ve never held anything that wasn’t a pick or a weapon in your entire life!”

They had to at least play nice with their “peers,” while their forces were still comparatively weak. The alternative was their cause being pulled out by the root… all because Megatron had taken to aristocracy with all its demands and trappings like a muddy turbofox to bath time.

Starscream could understand that Megatron didn’t like the aristocracy as an institution. Sure, it was full of vapid wastrels and sapped vital resources, but for now… they had to play the game.

Unfortunately, next week they were invited to another social event, this one in Helex. As the newly minted duke was a bachelor, that meant Starscream, as the highest ranking official after him, had to attend in the stead of a consort. Nominally, this was fine.

He even got a courtesy title out of it and got to playact at belonging in high society, hanging off a high-ranking noble’s arm like a beautiful yet deadly accessory. A shame, he sometimes thought, that it was just pretend and would one day have to end. Starscream certainly played the part of socialite better than Megatron did.

If their roles were reversed, the situation might have actually worked out better, with Starscream as a mannered noble and Megatron his crude but loyal guard. A powerful, loyal protector who would do whatever Starscream asked of him.

Oh well, a mech could dream.

However, the present danger was that dancing was not a natural outgrowth of Megatron’s skills in combat. In combat, stepping on an enemy’s feet was a valid tactic to gain an advantage and not a surefire way to upset a dancing partner that might very well enact vengeance.

“I am not going to be embarrassed by you in public again!”

He stamped his foot in frustration, a threat to do to Megatron what he’d been doing to Starscream for the last half an hour. They both knew it wasn’t a toothless threat either. Whether or not Megatron actually cared about being injured was still up for debate.

“You need to hold gently!” He mimed carefully closing his hand on his opposite wrist. “Like this, nicely, like you actually like me, like you think I’m fragile and precious and you don’t want to break me.”

Then Starscream clamped down to illustrate the principle, waving his captured arm in Megatron’s face.

“Not like you’re trying to choke the life out of me through my wrists!”

All the while, Megatron just stood there with his arms crossed, scowling impassively with his optical ridges furrowed. Of course, he thought dance practice was just a was—

“This is a waste of time.”

Starscream sighed, rubbing the tips of his fingers down the sides of his nose in exasperation.

“Yes, normally, I would agree with you—“ When Megatron had a good idea anyway. He wasn’t stupid, just married to his Cause, which sometimes had the same outward effect no matter how much processing power the lummox actually had to work with. “—But we can’t afford ideological purity right now! We need to make a proper appearance. Unlike last time.”

Defenestrating that Iaconian minister the last time, however hilarious, had not been their most shining moment.

Megatron let one optic go wide, silently disagreeing with Starscream’s assessment of his behavior. He probably thought he’d behaved entirely appropriately, because, of course, he did.

Honestly, the minister shouldn’t have made an off-color comment about manual class mechs, especially not when Megatron had been standing a few paces away. That minister had had it coming, but it had still looked bad… and reinforced the Decepticons’ reputation as a band of “no good, uncivilized brutes.”

The fact that Starscream hadn’t even for a moment attempted to stop his boss from launching the moron through a window had not helped either, nor had his immediate disclaimer that they would, in no uncertain terms, not be paying for that window. Not with the inflation in Iacon being so astronomically high.

Still, Megatron had been the bulk of the problem there. It wasn’t as though Starscream could un-toss that guy out of the window to make everything all “peachy keen” again. Megatron had dropped the minister into the gardens several floors below, but honestly it was easier to get him into an ambulance from there anyway, rather than the secure-access ballroom.

“I think at this point, they only invite us because they’re afraid of us.” Starscream leaned his palm against his forehead. “Just… not the way they ought to be.”

Social etiquette decreed that, as a noble, not inviting Megatron would have been a great insult that could result in either devastating bodily or property damage. Unfortunately, they seemed to not grasp that Megatron had no desire to go to their “asinine” events in the first place. Those that invited him were more likely to end up with a higher priority on a future hit list for being nuisances.

“Their little soirées are pointless, Starscream. We shouldn’t bother. We’d be much better served by—”

“Where does the eloquent mech who says words like ‘soirées’ go when we go to these parties? Where does he go, Megatron? Do you eat him?” His voice reached a screeching pitch as it echoed off the walls in the cavernous room. “It’s like you replace him with a barbarian specifically when I—when we need a presentable, well-mannered gentlemech the most!”

The music stopped. Soundwave must have finally taken notice of their bickering, a near constant background noise in Kolkular’s vast, cavernous halls.

This time it was Megatron’s turn to sigh, probably in preparation of saying something dismissive.

Like he usually did.

It didn’t help that his facial expressions where generally limited to various shades of scowling and its occasional friend: cruel amusement. That left Starscream little by way of different outcomes to assume.

He braced for a shout or a barked order.

“Very well.”

The words that came out were oddly… calm. Starscream tilted his head to the side, wings dropping low in confusion. A brief flash of worry crossed his processor that perhaps Megatron was ill, had come down with some sort of infection from his habit of recharging on the floor in the corner of his office.

“What?”

“We’ll try again.”

Megatron reached out to take the seeker in his grasp again. Starscream cringed away from the hands, as though they were somehow contaminated, protectively pulling his own arms in towards his chest.

He had already had more than enough of being crushed by a clumsy oaf for the last twenty minutes.

“You’re not stepping on my foot again—“

“No, I’m not.” Megatron paused. “Not intentionally. A dance partner with broken feet won’t be much help as a teacher or social companion now, would they?”

Cautiously, Starscream surrendered one of his hands… only for it to be held gingerly, like he was a delicate aristocrat and not a seasoned assassin with several dead senators in his curriculum vitae.

Upbeat bars of music began to play again, filling the room with invigorating sound once more.

Maybe this wasn’t such a waste of time after all. Provided Megatron didn’t screw it up.

“Good, because if you do, it’ll cost you your entire foot.”

“I’d like to see you collect that debt.”

[praxcrown5]

Hooo!  Boy!  It's good to be working on War and Wings stuff, again.   I'm celebrating the 10 year anniversary of my Transformers Prime fanfic: War and Wings.  As part of the celebration, I'm planning to edit each of the chapters, as well as release new artwork for each chapter.  Don't worry; I'm not going to change anything major.  I just want to edit for readability and to close up some plot holes that were missed during the initial release. So, to kick things off, I think it's high time that Io gets her own reference sheet.

 I'm also including an extended biography, since we really don't get to delve much into her backstory in WAW.

Here’s a link to chapter one of the fic (unedited as of right now...but that’ll change once I finish another character ref).

https://www.deviantart.com/praxcrown5/art/War-and-Wings-Chapter-1-part-1-Truth-or-Dare-304027044

Enjoy

Name: Io of Nova Cronum Age: Approximately 250, 000 earth years (by the time WaW starts) Profession: Medic and CaranologistStatus: Offline Eons before the Decepticon/Autobot war, Io studied caranology--a mathematically intensive subdicipline of enerology--under the tutelage of Flash Point and Olefin, two prominent researchers in Nova Cronum.   The two scientists used their power and influence to collect Io as a raw protoform from the Well of Allsparks.  They took the protoform back to their lab and used Olefin's knowledge of protoform matter to shape her body, giving her her first altmode (hovercraft).  She would begin studying caranology as soon as she finished her general education courses at the Iacon Academy.  Within a few dozen vorns, she had advanced so much in the field that 'bots, including her formers, began calling her a "prodigy," and she was sent to the Nova Cronum Research Institution to hone her studies.   She would continue on there until just before the Rust Plague forced Cybertron to destroy it's expansive space bridge network.  With energon supplies dwindling due to rampant use in the ages prior, Io would rejoin her formers and together with a cabal of other scientists, would begin the seemingly impossible task of trying to create synthetic energon.   During the age of Rust, Io would be introduced to the world of underground gladiatorial combat by one of her research partners.  She never participated in any matches, as her body wasn't designed for combat.   However, she would become sympathetic to calls for social equality that were being expounded by bots like councilor Soundwave, Orion Pax and Megatron.  As time went on, the functionism of old began to regain steam, and many bots in the research caste began to draw ever more arbitrary lines between themselves and those whom they considered socially inferior.  When Io's own research cabal began to drift in this direction, Io left in protest.  Her formers didn't want her to go, as they felt that her viewpoints may help influence the rest of the cabal, but ultimately left the decision up to her.  She flew to Kaon where she became a vocal supporter of Megatron and his more radical ideas of social reform. After Halogen's assassination, she would side with Megatron and his "decepticons", hoping that her knowledge of caranology could be put to good use.  However, she soon found out that the 'Cons cared little for what they considered "intellectual pursuits," and after being dismissed by Shockwave, was sent to the Kaon slums to serve as a medic and prostitute.  She was reformatted into a jet to make her more appealing to Decepticon soldiers.   Despite hating her new life, her talents in "medicine" earned her some sympathy from her y'vst, and she was allowed to leave the slums from time to time to practice flying and marksmanship in the nearby Sonic Canyons.  Eventually, her favorable reputation in the slums (combined with a bribe of several thousand shanix) earned her a place in an aerial gladitorial match called the toib'ai'lov Tournament.  She earned high enough marks that she was recruited to the 4th tactical bombing division under Commander Dreadwing, where she would partake in numerous, aerial offensives against Autobot ground forces.  Between battles, her medical skills were still used to "boost morale," and as time went on, she began to wonder if joining the Decepticons was really worth all of the pain. Eventually, the Decepticon front reached Praxis, and the ensuing stalemate saw a pause in the war.  Megatron, furious over the outcome, ordered Bruticus Maxiumus, and a legion of loyal gladiators, to invade Nova Cronum.  The citizens of the city were given an ultimatum:  Join Megatron or die.   The citizens, including Io's formers, held fast to their position of neutrality, and were slaughtered.  The city was shelled until nothing was left in the aftermath but pools of molten slag.   When news of Nova Cronum reached Kaon, Io deflected.  If Megatron was willing to inflict such horrors upon unarmed scientists, what was to stop him from doing the same to his own followers.?  She flew to the ruins of Praxis, ripped out her decepticon insignia in front of the startled Autobots allowed herself to be shackled and carted off to Iacon where she was interrogated by Prowl for nearly three orns.  Once it was discovered that she was a very qualified medic and caranologist, she was sent to the Iacon Academy and assigned to an old scientist named Drive System.  Drive System, suffering from Decepticon prejudice and jealous that Io was more talented of a scientist than him, attempted to blackmail her for her research.  Io, in a blind rage, tries to kill him, but is apprehended quickly and sent to the decagon.  After ten orns of confinement, her probation begins and she is sent to the Iacon Clinic and Triage Facility to serve as Ratchet's shield and assistant.   https://www.deviantart.com/praxcrown5/art/War-and-Wings-Chapter-1-part-1-Truth-or-Dare-304027044

[colorfuluniversalprotectors]

“It’s a place on earth where the French live.” The people who had claimed it as their own, like any place for worldwide territory. something she hoped was not asked more upon since her knowledge, while vast and unending, was dull to her personally. Still she never minded hearing her fellow Super and operators talk about it.

She thought about the information given to her. Finding it odd yet cool, if not a bit eerie to consider something far larger than Phantasma. Than again she had Sentinel who towered over her hugely. “Well, they are cute! You sort of remind me of Mic sounders. If he held more sharper edges or could eat.” She paused and thought a bit more on what was said. “Vacations? You have places for resorts and vacation destinations? Have you been on any?” She asked as she offered her hand to the crab to inspect playfully, hopefully.

“It may have.” Sentinel replied with a hint of acceptance. While he did it mind that idea of being suck here, he did hope to have a chance of regaining what he once held. What he had kept for so long and earned. Rightfully earned. Make amends and even the odds with a few bots. He would have time to plan for that during this period at least.

“Gladiators? It must have been…sometime. There hasn’t been any territory or colony under the name kaon, unless it’s locked behind the archives or sipped completely, another name.” He thought about that, he swore Megatrounus… “Vos is one of the locations for the areialbots to claim. Bugs Iacon…now that is where I reside.” He seemed proud when speaking, recalling various memories from his banks and favorable faceplates that did remind him…the aerialbots—he forgot to aid them with that shortage of energon…they would be fine. “It’s our most populous location on cybertron, rich in energon and action. Treat the people well and it shows.” He cared for them all.

And in the end it was all lost. Two cogless miners. Those high-guards. The incompetent body-guard gifted to him, old model and worn down, everything could have remained the same.

His wings twitched at that thought. “Many territories and cities fell. Iacon was their hope.” He added, recalling how Kaon seemed more dire and miner like. “Gladiators were not common when my time came around. We had to make changes to ensure as many bots could survive and continue our journey and work for Cybertrons return to glory.” Well he had to, the gladiators time seemed more boring and barbaric to him, he never got into it as certain primes or colleagues had.

||_abnormal normal___||

@cyberghost-scout summoning first steps

||………………………………………|||

The walls were so, so very odd. The sounds surrounding the room and that were oddly foreign to his audio receptors echoed dully on the stroll he took. A stroll he had taken the past few, whatever they were, by now. It didn’t matter much to him now opposed to the one he had seemingly taken under his wing. For her sake he liked to think he could care, but he couldn’t. To him it was just a matter of how long it would to regain what he had lost. And if he could even return and leave this fascinating place.

So far it seemed he’d been able to keep his frame clean and out of the liquid that seemed to be ever so popular for the room. The odd infinite source of liquid and its items of small stature was somewhat interesting to observe, but nothing to keep him fully entertained or fully satisfied in processor work. The tubes and other smaller decorations that could barely handle a cog less bot..he did wonder where they did originate from…

He paused his walking and flexed his wings, he heard something different, not similar to the sounds of usual ambiance. It placed him in a stage of unrest, and hope for engagement. And with little hesitation— he walked towards it. To inspect and ensure it wasn’t something that could harm the smaller company he had.

[pastelpaperplanes]

You mostly draw Megatron with Crusade in his Cybertronian look but in your canons it was said that while carrying the spark Megs wore his Marauder look. Did Megatron changed bodies or is the Canon changed?

yes! haha so hmm let’s see. So far up until A Little Too Familiar I have tossed Crusade into my Crackship AU—because with the Cybertron’s future AU with a whole lot of my other sparklings, ones that have considered backstories, they wouldn’t exist because of Shamus and Envoy!—and yes in the Crack AU, Megan does sport his Marauder Upgrade.

I’m still 1000% open to keeping Crusade as like,,a cameo for the Crack AU but I will say I’m getting far too attached to their character to better NOT explore them more in a more intricate backstory kind of sense! Many of the asks I’ve answered previously about Crusade’s personality and future are still canon—with the exemption that Crusade has a far more present/loving relationship with their Carrier, who as a literal helicopter parent is near suffocating in his protectiveness and efforts to keep his sparkling away from the hands and influence of the Autobots, even if that means locking them away on the Nemesis far too much to be healthy, and lying straight to their face, and others, about their origins.

Since the TFN 2021 S4 kickoff script reading I’ve been leaning towards guess what—a whole other AU that continues RIGHT after that point, much like where the CF AU would—only certain rescission within the timeline have been changed leading to, in some relationships, a vastly different setting for a next generation! (No, I don’t think I’d create a whole ton of other sparklings in place, for example a planned Strika/Lugnut kiddo wouldn’t happen for obvious reasons, nor would Shmaus or Envoy exist!! Who would remain, THAT I will figure out later down the line.) So Megatron is not in his Marauder form, Optimus is named Magnus, Jazz is with team Prime/Ninja Corps, Sentinel is still a dick figures, Prowl is still dead and so forth.

What I have planned is sort of like where the Deceptions sport a retreat after their bust on Earth when attempting to take over the central line of techno organic energon. The Cons faced losses, high command was scrambled and still very much injured from their cruel, and unusual keeping within Trypticon, heavy sacrifices turned out to NOT reap greater rewards, and the troops are still starving—and starving, scared mecha are far more dangerous than angry ones.

Optimus is still coming to terms that he is due to lead Cybertron, under the title of Optimus Magnus as soon as he’s back, whether he likes it or not as the front lines are still very much on edge with the evermore increasingly violent rouge Con raids.

I made some commentary on the reading as a whole which was PHENOMENAL and I’m still riding the high that is the fanTASTIC work that was put into is, like god. There was a brief but hilarious moment from Rattletrap where he attempted to sell off a crudely photoshopped Megop photograph as dirt—a part of me thought it would be even MORE hilarious if said photo was actually, used and Op was left sputtering after a double take going like how did they find that. HOW.

My poor, poor fanfic loving heart got going on of course the What if the Enemies Were Fraternizing Throughout the Whole of The Show, Morals be Damned in Those Stolen Moments Because I Like YOU For Some Reason trope. Wow is me, be still my beating HEART. It did not stop—so I made another AU :D yayyyyy

Basically the creation of Crusade follows along in this timeline in that sense. They were a product of one too many lonely nights in some far off abandoned cave that never could quite seem to end with a civil conversation, let alone spark apprehension from the other when it came to going toe to toe of the battlefield for the sake of their Causes. A Comfort without Strings relationship, even if they did come to grow fond of each other, not that they’d ever admit it—a confession, in a sense, would only hurt both parties knowing that the two would never give up their motivations in the ‘impossible ‘case that said feelings were mutual.

From the looks of it, the Autobots did not once tend to the Deceptions during their stay at Trypticon. Megs still sported bare struts and tattered armor up to his escape—it would be believable that medics never once ran scans, let alone were ordered to get anywhere near the high command. With already being in such poor shape, battered, humiliated, starved, violated (those minicons?? homage to Trepan??? yikessssss) and sedated—it would be believable that Megatron wouldn’t pay notice to a small flutter in his spark amongst all the pain and anxiety, at least until he finally could gather his bearings under the lockdown of his temporary fortress stuck on Earth.

Megatron, knowing he was alone, now extremely vulnerable, heavily outnumbered and out favored by his remaining struggling troops, called upon his definitely not most favorite sub team to cower behind—the DJD, to meet his blaring distress beacon.

Tarn and his crew, with the help of the rest of high command’s signal dampeners, are able to as covertly as possible—minus the world sweeper size of the Peaceful Tyranny and the paralyzing droning on of the Empyrean Suite that Tarn just loves so dearly—made it off planet save for a few bumps and bruises from the small force of Team Prime. The High & Mighty Megatron was no where to be seen in the action. Probably off in a hurry to lick his wounds in retreat after getting his ass handed to him, many assumed, but Nickel knew better. Tarn knew better. Something was terribly wrong in order to resort to a ‘cowardly’ extraction and evasion mission.

You can see where I’m going w this—so anyways YES that is the general gist of where this AU kicks off!!! Megs and Op, particularly Megs, got unlucky on their last night together—eventually all leading to the introduction of the previously secretive back up weapon that was the DJD. Coming to the rescue of their Fearless, All Powerful, and Resilient Leader?? A strange, but instantly understandable measure to resort to once Megatron reveals himself as a carrying mech, the beholder of a true heir and a testament to the resilience that is the Deceptions though the terrible reign the Autobots have held against them through the eons.

I’ll go into why he keeps Crusade on a tight leash and Op out of the loop entirely for as long as he possibly could—and how the rest of Megaton’s troops behaved around this clearly, half blooded Con sparkling their leader doted on— later!

Needless to say, Crusade’s reputation from the moment they were born was tottering on a fine line between that of pitiable condolences for their leader, and that of true Decepticon pride knowing that the one to lead them to glory some day is none other than one of the Autobots’ very own descendants.

Hope that kinda better explains things! I like Meg’s Cybertronian design, it’s sleek, it’s sexy, it’s easier to draw, and since S4 gave us a fresher design to admire of Optimus, why not have the same for his other half!

YEAHH. so new AU :D AYOOOO I’ll tag this timeline/future mentionings of Crusade and their journey as Cybertron’s Legacy AU

extremely stupid doodle under the cut! I can’t get over the duality of Old Written vs New Written Crusade ahhh 💀💀

I found a horrifically perfect tik tok audio for these two oml

Swapping Megatron stories!

[blackgirlfandomwriter]

Pregnant (Bayverse Optimus x Oc Reader)

Ok, so this is an old one-shot that I wrote starring my friends and me. This was back when I first starting writing on Wattpad and I thought it would be funny to share it with yall so enjoy!!

Lori's POV:

"People are so dumb in horror movies," Savannah said tossing popcorn in her mouth. "I know right," I said laughing as we continued to watch the film in front of us. Tonight me and the girls decided to have a movie night until the guys got back from their mission in Tokyo. "I just got a text from Ratchet, they should be here tomorrow morning," Nina said smiling at us as we all grinned. The movie had gone off so we just started talking about randomness. Kaitlyn started to crack jokes making me laugh uncontrollably. "How about a game of truth or dare," Savannah said with a huge grin that said she was up to no good.

"Uh-uh Savannah's up to something," Nina said shaking her head. "What? No, I'm not I just have a question" Savannah said still smirking evilly. "And what may that be," I asked raising my eyebrow questioningly. "Have any of yall....... you know.......... done it yet?" Savannah said as we all looked around at each other waiting for answers. "Duhhhh," Kaitlyn said sticking her tongue in a playful way. "I know that's right," Savannah said as she and Nina high-fived while laughing. I on the other hand sat there in silence

"I know Lori be getting it in with Optimus all the time," Nina said looking at me giggling. I slapped her on the arm and laughed. "No, we haven't done it," I said trying to hide my embarrassment. "Not yet at least," Savannah raised her eyebrows at me in a joking way. "Bruhh shut up," I said hitting her with a pillow. She looked stunned for a moment before she hit me back. "PILLOW FIGHT" Kaitlyn yelled as we all started to hit each other with pillows.

~Time Skip To Morning~

"Ow stop kicking me" I muttered moving around to get comfortable on whatever I was laying on. I opened my eyes to see me and the girls all spread across the living room floor. I laughed as I stood up from my position on the floor and stretched. I yawned as I headed upstairs to get cleaned up and changed. I washed my face, brushed my teeth, and threw on leggings and a crop top as I picked up my phone to text Optimus.

~~Messages~~

Lori: Hey, I thought you would be home by now 😥

Optimus: Sadly we are at the military base with Lennox discussing going back to Cybertron...... the government is starting to get a bit angsty

Lori: Oh is everything ok

Optimus: Nothing that needs to concern you. Everything will be fine

Lori: Um ok. I love you 💙

Optimus: Love you too. I'll be home soon❤

~~End~~

I looked down at my phone with a smile as I sighed. "I wonder how going back to Cybertron is going to work," I said to myself before shrugging my shoulders. I slipped my phone into my pocket and headed back downstairs. "Breakfast sounds good," I said while pulling out eggs, bacon, and pancake mix as I got to work. Once I was done with breakfast the girls were already awake and sleepily walking to the table. "Thanks for breakfast Lori," Nina said as Savannah and Kaitlyn grumbled through stuffed mouths of food. I laughed hearing a knock at the front door. "Who could that be," I said aloud as I jogged to the door. I slowly opened the door to find a few of the Autobots standing there in their bipedal forms.

"Oh my god! You're back" I yelled hugging them as they all chuckled. "What are you yelling about," Savannah said walking up behind me and freezing. "BEE" she yelled tackling him to the ground. We all laughed as Kaitlyn and Nina came to see all the commotion. They were so happy to see Ratchet and Crosshairs it was unbelievable. "Aww yall are so cute," I said taking out my phone and snapping many pictures. "Whatever girl your just jealous," Nina said sticking out her tongue playfully. "Girl you wish," I said with a playful eye roll. Before I could close the door I saw some more cars pull up. They all looked pretty familiar. They soon transformed revealing Jazz and the Lambo Twins (Sideswipe and Sunstreaker). "It's been a while, Lori," Jazz said walking up to me with a smile. "Nice to see you too," I said punching Jazz in the arm.

Before I could say anything to the twins I was engulfed in a tight hug. "We've missed you," they both said as I sighed. "I missed you guys too," I said as I kissed both of their foreheads as they went inside. Finally, the last three Autobots showed up, Drift, Hound, and Optimus. As soon as they transformed I ran over to Optimus and jumped into his arms. He caught me and spun me around causing me to squeal. When he set me back on the ground I smashed my lips into his as to which he returned the favor. "Eww guys get a room," Hound said in fake disgust. I only laughed as Optimus threw me over his shoulder and carried me into the house. "Optimus what are you doing" I yelled as he started to carry me upstairs. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Savannah making these symbols with her hands towards me.

I gave Savannah a death glare as I mouthed the words Fuck you. Savannah looked at me in disbelief and burst into laughter as me and Optimus made it upstairs. When we made it to my bedroom Optimus lightly threw me on the bed causing me to giggle as he crawled on top of me. "Optimus what are you doing" I wined playfully trying to push him off of me. He didn't say anything as he let his metal lips find mine in a passionate kiss. I kissed back as he let his hands wander down to my hips. He pulled away and nibbled on my neck leaving little love bites as I moaned lightly. After a few minutes, he pulled away and kissed my forehead. "You sure you wanna do this" He whispered as I smirked kissing him roughly. "Does that answer your question?" I said with a smirk as he proceeded with a low growl.

~Time Skip To The Morning After (Cuz I've never written a lemon sooooo..... Yea)~

I woke up to the sun beaming through my curtains as I groaned snuggling into the warm figure next to me. 'Wait' I thought as my eyes popped open. 'Did me and Optimus ..... noooo did we?' I thought while slowly looking under the covers and quickly putting them back down. 'Oh, shit' I thought looking up at the ceiling. I let out a deep sigh as I turned to face a still sleeping Optimus. 'He's so handsome when he sleeps. Ugh, but why do I feel sick all of the sudden'. For some reason, something didn't feel right as I rushed to the bathroom. I shut the door and hunched over the toilet immediately spilling my guts. "What the hell" I groaned as I grabbed my phone off the counter and texted Savannah

~Messages~

Lori: Savannahhhhh😫😥

Savannah: Yes big head

Lori: I need help 😥 Somethings wrong like fr fr

Savannah: Where are you???

Lori: The bathroom in my room 😭

Savannah: Ight hold on

~End~

I took a deep breath as I waited on Savannah's arrival. Soon I heard the doorknob jiggle and in came Savanah shutting the door behind her. "Did you wake Optimus?" I asked nervously. "No, but what's your problem? You look uglier than usual" Savannah stated smiling as I weekly kicked her. "Looookkkk," I said pointing at the toilet. Savannah looked in and quickly backed away in disgust. "What the hell! Are you sick?" she yelled as I shushed her sternly. "I don't know I woke up feeling weird then I threw up," I said laying my head on the bathtub.

"Wait did you and Optimus......" Savannah asked not finishing her sentence. "Not important right now," I said pointing a finger at her as her eyes went wide. "I'll be right back," Savannah said as she ran out of the bathroom leaving me confused. As I waited for her to come back I slowly got up from my position on the floor trying to steady myself. I wobbly walked over to the counter and looked at myself in the mirror. 'Ugh I look horrible' I thought as I rinsed my mouth to get rid of the smell of puke.

"I'm back," Savannah said while holding something behind her back. "What's that," I asked pointing behind her with a raised eyebrow. Without saying a word she pulled out a pregnancy test and my jaw dropped in shock. "Take it," Savannah said sternly. "Are you serious?" I said crossing my arms in disbelief. "Yes, now take it," Savannah said shoving it into my hands and walking out of the bathroom. I sighed as went through the process of taking the pregnancy test. I set it on the counter and waited. 'There's no way I'm pregnant...... am I? I mean it was only once and it was my first time! Oh god, why am I so anxious'. I started to get more nervous as I paced around the bathroom. 'What will Optimus think? Does he even want kids? Do I want kids? WHY DIDN'T WE USE A-'. My thoughts were soon interrupted by my phone ringing signaling that the five-minute wait was over.

I slowly picked up the test with shaky hands. I looked down at the test and immediately lost my breath. "I'm pregnant" I whispered while covering my mouth with my hand. Tears started to fall but I couldn't tell if I was happy or scared. I sobbed quietly as I slid onto the floor. 'What am I gonna do?' I thought to myself as I cried a bit harder. There was a knock at the door causing me to jump but I didn't say a word. "Lori are you ok," A rough voice said from the other side of the door. 'Shit' I scurried to my feet while wiping my eyes clean. "Yea I'm fine," I said fixing myself up. "You don't sound fine. Can you please open the door" Optimus said as my heart stopped. 'Here comes the moment of truth I guess'

I opened the door letting him in as he kissed my forehead. "I have something to tell you" I spoke as my voice quivered. "Are you ok, you look sick?" Optimus said looking at me with concern. "Yea I'm fine just a little morning sickness," I said putting on a fake smile. As soon as I said those words Optimus's eyes went wide. "Are you?" Optimus asked questioningly as he stared at my stomach. "Yea...... I'm sorry" I said bursting into tears as I felt a strange pain in my chest. "Sorry? For what" Optimus said trying to calm me down. "I didn't even ask if you wanted kids, it just happened! And I-" Before I could continue my ranting his lips gently smashed onto mine.

I calmed down as he wiped away my stray tears. "Hey, look at me," Optimus said while raising my head my his index finger, "I've always thought about starting a family with you. It just happened faster than I expected, but I still love you and our unborn child," Optimus said causing my eyes to water up again. "I love you so much," I said kissing him passionately. I felt him smirk in the kiss causing me to giggle. "You kiss me like that again and we might be making twins," Optimus said kissing my neck. "You horny hunk of metal," I said shoving him playfully and trying to walk away. But I couldn't get far enough before he scooped me up into his arms bridal style and carried me downstairs.

When we walked into the living room everyone was sitting there as if they were awaiting our arrival. "Soooooo," Savannah said with a huge grin. "You told them," I said looking at her with a shocked expression. "That's not important right now. What does the test say" Nina said jumping up and down eagerly. Optimus and I exchanged a look as we both smiled. "WE'RE HAVING A BABY!!" I yelled in excitement as everyone laughed and clapped. "It's about damn time," Crosshairs said with a smirk while I playfully glared at him. "Aww I'm going to be an auntie," Savannah said wiping away a fake tear. I laughed while hugging her tightly as everyone else started talking about baby showers and planning causing me to roll my eyes. "Wow can't believe I'm gonna be a mom," I said rubbing my still flat stomach. "I can't believe I'm gonna be a father," Optimus said kissing my forehead as everyone 'Awwed'. I took a good look around at the people around me, the Autobots, my friends, my best friend, the love of my life, and soon to be born child.

This is my family now and I love them

[seehowsupplethespineis]

When the Wind Roars

(I can’t believe I finally finished this!!! This story was originally intended to be much shorter, but...obviously I got a bit carried away. Expect lots of angst. There’s some fluff, too, but mostly ANGST.)

(Plot Summary: In the past, Starscream and Skyfire made quite the team, but even then, that partnership was put to the test. In the present, Starscream and Skyfire do battle, as Starscream tries to rid himself of their shared memories once and for all.)

(Warnings: violence, guns, injury, a bit of disturbing imagery, death mention, lots of vengeful thoughts)

Present

The wind roared deafeningly at the peak of the mountain. It had only picked up in intensity in the few cycles they’d been stationed here, bringing with it a relentless rain that blanketed the world in hues of grey. Starscream scowled as he hastened to catch a stray bit of metal before it went tumbling off the mountainside, his feet nearly slipping out from under him in the sea of mud. He hated this weather. It was cold and wet and impossible to work in.

Of course, Starscream had faced far worse weather than this, but that was of little comfort.

Rumble was also fed up. After face planting in the mud for the fourth time, the minicon threw down his supply of metal beams with a cry of outrage.

“This is stupid!” he exclaimed, “How does Megatron expect us to build anything up here?!”

Starscream scowled at him, “I did not say you could stop working!”

Rumble’s small fists balled up at his sides, “What are you gonna do about it?”

Starscream didn’t like to be challenged. Without hesitation, he chucked the piece of metal he’d been holding at Rumble, who toppled over once more.

“I said work!” The other Decepticons hastened to comply as Rumble crawled out from under the metal, studiously avoiding Starscream’s withering glare.

In all honesty, Starscream was just as furious as Rumble, though his frustration was more because he was forced to work up here on this Primusforsaken mountain; he should be leading an attack on the Autobots, not laboring in the mud. This was far beneath him.

Despite his demand that everyone keep working, Starscream paused to look up at the sky. It was grey and murky but a ray of light shone through, reaching only so far as to give a hint of warmth.

He was reminded of another planet he’d visited millions of years ago. It was just as wet and windy as this one; just as meddlesome. He hadn’t been alone then, either, nor was he alone when he’d first visited this accursed planet.

A few rain drops splattered on his optics and Starscream violently wiped them away, an irritated snarl escaping him.

“Starscream!” It was Thundercracker.

“What now?!”

“Autobots!”

At first, Starscream didn’t believe him. There was no road up to this mountain. The wheel-bound Autobots would be unable to make it up here; even by foot, the journey was too perilous. The only way up was through flight.

Starscream’s optics widened. He lowered his servos from his face to find the mountainside cast in shadow. His gaze flicked upward.

Above him, in a halo of light, hovered a large, white jet.

Starscream felt sudden heat swell within him despite the cold.

“Shoot him out of the sky!!!”

A distant planet, millions of years ago...

“This is very likely a bad idea.”

“You say that about everything.”

“No, I only say that when a situation seems hazardous...this situation seems hazardous.”

“Honestly, Skyfire, you can be so cowardly sometimes,” Starscream transformed back to root mode as he touched down on a muddy precipice. He scowled as his feet sank into the muck but kept a chipper tone as he addressed his partner, “I can barely feel the wind!”

Skyfire set down beside him. The sudden weight of the two jets shook the cliffside, sending a few boulders tumbling over the edge. Skyfire watched their descent and frowned.

“You’ve seen the weather report, Starscream,” he said quietly, “The storm could pick up any moment now.

Starscream waved a flippant servo. Raindrops spiraled off his digits, “If it does, we can handle it! We’ve suffered through far worse, you and I.”

“Perhaps,” said Skyfire, “But nothing which hampered our ability to fly away.”

Starscream shook his head; he loved Skyfire, but sometimes he was a real pain in the afterburner. They’d been on countless exploration missions before and faced plenty of unsavory weather conditions; floods, earthquakes, they’d survived them all. What was a little storm to them?

“If you want to go, fine!” Starscream started walking, “I’ll complete this mission myself.”

He’d barely taken two steps before Skyfire was at his side, as Starscream knew he’d be. The smaller jet grinned up at him and Skyfire sighed.

“Let’s just get a lay of the land and go. We can come back for those crystal samples we’re supposed to investigate when the storm lets up.”

Starscream heaved a dramatic sigh, “That could take ages, Skyfire, and we’re on a tight schedule! We’re meant to be returning to Cybertron soon.”

Skyfire glanced away at that. Starscream narrowed his optics.

“What is it?”

Fiddling with his portable scanner, Skyfire shook his head, “It’s just...Cybertron has been so...contentious of late. Part of the reason I volunteered for this expedition was because I wanted to get away for a while.”

“I thought you volunteered because I volunteered,” Starscream said with a slight smirk.

Skyfire glanced at him and smiled, “I do have a mind of my own, you know.”

“Yes,” Starscream agreed, “And it’s smart enough to follow me.”

A laugh escaped the larger jet, “Or dumb enough.”

“Nonsense! We’re highly intelligent bots, Skyfire,” Starscream ruined the sentiment by tripping over a boulder, but Skyfire righted him before his face hit the mud. Coughing slightly to hide his embarrassment, Starscream continued,  “That’s why we work so perfectly together.”

Skyfire still kept a hold of Starscream’s arm as he considered his partner’s words. At last, he let his servo drift down to clutch Starscream’s hand.

“Interesting hypothesis.”

Starscream’s processor seemed to momentarily short out, but it came back online as Skyfire regarded him fondly with those brilliant blue eyes of his. Flustered, Starscream only stared, until eventually he managed to connect his processor back to his voice.

“Interesting fact,” he corrected, squeezing Skyfire’s hand, “That we shall prove now!”

He pointed up the mountain with his free servo. High above, the faintest gleam, as of polished metal, twinkled in the faint light.

“Those are the crystals.”

Skyfire squinted up at them and raised his scanner, “Hmm...they definitely have a high energy output. Akin to energon.”

“We need a sample,” Starscream broke away from Skyfire so he could take flight. Skyfire laid a hand on his shoulder before he could.

“Starscream, look at those clouds,” Skyfire gestured up at the - admittedly - ominous sky above them, “I would not advise flying.”

“So what, we climb?” Starscream had to shout to be heard over a sudden gust of wind.

“No, we wait until the weather becomes more favorable.”

A burst of lightning and a rumble of thunder punctuated Skyfire’s words. Starscream couldn’t deny the sudden thrill of apprehension that shot through his system, but he wasn’t about to be bested by a mere storm.

“I’m going for it!”

“Don’t!” Skyfire’s grip on his shoulder was more insistent, “The wind is picking up. You could get blown into the mountain side or crash to the ground. And those crystals are brimming with unstable energy! We shouldn’t get too-!”

“I am a scientist, Skyfire!” Starscream shook free of the other jet, “I know how to handle dangerous substances. And I know how to handle myself, thank you very much!”

Skyfire opened his mouth but whatever he said was lost to the wind.

“What?!” Starscream shouted.

“I said, we must seek shelter!”

“We’re on a cliff! Where-” Starscream’s response was cut short as a large rock tumbled down from above, forcing the smaller jet to leap out of the way. Scowling, he glanced up to where the rock had come from, and his optics widened as he saw still more crashing down.

“Move!” Skyfire yelled. As one, he and Starscream dove off the cliff and transformed back to jet mode. Instantly, Starscream felt the wind buffet his wings, threatening to splatter him against the cliff side. Okay, he conceded to himself, Maybe the weather is too much.

The rain poured down in earnest, now, blanketing Starscream’s windshield to the point where the world became a hazy, grey blur. A bolt of lightning arced down. It was far, far too close for his liking, and Starscream instinctively swerved away.

Extending his long range sensors, he sought a safe place to land below. Skyfire would be doing the same, he knew. His sensors probed the sky around him, trying to pinpoint the white jet so they could touch down together.

Something within him froze. He extended his sensors further, as far as he could. His engines faltered. The wind pressed in around him, rattling him to his very core, but he paid no heed.

In a moment’s frantic decision, Starscream transformed back to root mode and scanned the landscape with his optics.

Even as he plummeted to the ground, he called out desperately.

“SKYFIRE!”

Present

Energy bolts lit up the gloomy mountain as the Decepticons opened fire. As if sensing the sudden hostility, lightning split open the sky and a deep, resounding rumble followed soon after. Starscream’s optics were momentarily dazzled by the stunning displays surrounding him, and when they adjusted, three Autobots had leaped down from the sky to stand before him.

He recognized their leader, of course. Optimus Prime leveled a weapon at Starscream, though the jet paid little mind. Even as the Prime spoke, his voice deep and commanding, Starscream didn’t heed. Instead, he watched as the large, white jet above transformed and fell to the mountain top just behind Prime.

Something within Starscream burned as he locked gazes with Skyfire. Blazing red optics met piercing blue. They sliced through Starscream, as cold as the ice Skyfire had rested in for millions of years. Starscream didn’t recognize those eyes. He couldn’t even recall what they’d used to look like, though he remembered how they’d made him burn with a fire entirely different from the one raging within him now.

Prime shouted something. The Autobots charged. Two of them - Ironhide and Prowl - rushed to meet Thundercracker and Rumble. Prime defended himself against an emboldened Skywarp. And Skyfire, stance steady despite the shifting mud, raised his gun at Starscream.

The seething rage within him ignited and Starscream opened fire. Despite his immense size, Skyfire dodged, nearly trampling a terrified Rumble. Starscream didn’t let up, even as Skyfire took aim and forced him to launch off the ground to avoid the blast. Transforming into jet mode, he streaked through the air, null rays zeroed in on Skyfire’s bulky frame.

Skyfire fired off a few more shots, forcing Starscream to alter his course. His flight took him close to the other battling Autobots and Decepticons. Ironhide fired a few bolts at him and Starscream hurried to avoid the crossfire of his and Skyfire’s weapons. The distraction infuriated him and Starscream took a moment to fire on the red Autobot. Suitably cowed, Ironhide returned to his tussle with Rumble, leaving Starscream to focus every bit of his ire on the white mech firing on him from afar.

Their battle grew removed from that of the others. With each attack, they drew further away, further toward the edge. Starscream didn’t care. He refused to be beaten by this mountain or the wind and rain that assaulted him. He wanted Skyfire dead. That was all that mattered.

He streaked through the air. He was close now. Skyfire stood no chance. Sudden giddiness grabbed hold of Starscream as he imagined Skyfire offline at his feet. The traitor would die a traitor’s death; there would be no mercy.

But Starscream’s perceived victory was short-lived. Before he could even slow down, Skyfire dove forward, managing to come up under him. A servo closed around his wing and Starscream shrieked as Skyfire swung him into the ground. He landed painfully and it took a moment for him to recover enough to shift back to root mode. When he did, Skyfire stood over him, gun leveled at his face.

All was quiet, as if the increasing downpour had muted the world. The wind that howled so relentlessly before had petered out. The battle raging behind them was a distant nuisance, almost inconsequential. For all Starscream cared, the world consisted of only him, Skyfire, and the gun between them. The shaking gun.

Starscream’s gaze flicked to meet Skyfire’s. Those blue eyes stared back with a wavering resolve. For a moment that seemed to stretch across millions of years, neither made a move.

The wind sprang back to life, the distant battle drew nearer, and Skyfire still hadn’t fired. What are you waiting for? Starscream wanted to shout, Finish it!

But Skyfire didn’t, and this, more than anything, sent a surge of loathing through Starscream’s system. It fueled his null ray as he raised it in one deft movement.

Skyfire had no time to react. The force of the blast sent him careening back, his feet slipping in the mud, gun falling from his slack hand. There was no time for him to regain his balance.

Starscream watched him fall over the edge. He didn’t react for a few long moments after. All he could do was stare at the space Skyfire had occupied.

He’s gone, Something within Starscream’s spark shrank in on itself, I can’t see him.

His processor fixated on that one thought. I can’t see him. I can’t see him!

He stumbled forward, a desperate cry escaping him.

“SKYFIRE!!!”

Past

Not even the relentless gale could slow Starscream’s descent. He tore through the air, the wind shrieking as if in protest, his limbs flailing uselessly. He knew he needed to transform; if he didn’t, he’d be nothing but a mound of smashed metal and circuitry. As the image flashed in his mind, he couldn’t help but envision a similar corpse, this one much larger and a stark white against the dark landscape.

Starscream quashed the thought as soon as it arose. Skyfire wasn’t dead. He couldn’t be. Those were two differing thoughts, Starscream knew, but his processor couldn’t help but bounce between them. He’s not dead, because if he is then...There was no conclusion that Starscream dared consider, so he focused his processor, attempting to ignore the threat of his imminent demise.

He felt his transformation cog whir to life, though the transformation was made clumsy by the unconventional circumstances. The mess of green below drew nearer, serving as an unnecessary reminder that he needed to pull up fast.

Acting purely on instinct, his engines rocketed him forward. He felt leaves skim his wings as he struggled to pull upward, making for the murky grey of the clouds above. The wind was a constant assailant that threatened to dash him into the trees or the mountainside. Lightning split open the sky over and over, closer and closer.

Was that what happened? Had Skyfire been hit by a stray lightning bolt? The concept forced Starscream to tax his engines harder than he ever had. With a burst of speed, he shot upward, letting the trees be swallowed by the mist once more. Again, he extended his sensors and cursed his lack of visibility.

“SKYFIRE!!!”

No response. Starscream knew he wasn’t thinking straight as he veered closer to the mountain, seeking any hint that Skyfire may have crashed. His wing clipped a jutting boulder and he nearly smashed into the cliff face himself as he went careening off course. He was forced to climb higher in a desperate attempt not to meet with the rocks below.

Where is he? He couldn’t think. Couldn’t see, Where is he?!

Something glittered nearby, almost like…

Metal. Starscream threw himself forward, heedless of the risk, “Skyfire!!!”

The wind pulled at his wings, trying to drag him down. The noise was cacophonous, forcing his engines to roar all the louder. He would not be bested. He was so close…

The glittering material suddenly sharpened into focus. The hope glittering just as brightly within him dimmed.

In the faint light shimmered the very reason for this accursed mission. The energy crystals. No sign of Skyfire.

Starscream’s spark sank. He was sure it would drop right out of his fuselage and shatter on the jagged rocks far below. Maybe another spark was already waiting for it.

Thunder continued to growl overhead. Lightning tore through the darkness and illuminated the entire cliff side in brilliant white. An instinctive part of Starscream knew what was coming, but there was no time to react. He could only stare as the lightning zigzagged down and struck the shimmering rocks.

The crystals exploded. Shards smashed open Starscream’s cockpit and embedded themselves in his battered frame. He may have screamed, but he couldn’t hear it. Stabbing pain coursed through his entire being. It overwhelmed him, so much so that he didn’t realize he was falling until he smashed into a jutting, sloped cliff. The impact jarred loose a faint recollection.

Those crystals are brimming with unstable energy! We shouldn’t get too-

Skyfire had warned him. He’d warned him about everything, and what had Starscream said? Honestly, Skyfire, you can be so cowardly sometimes.

He felt himself sliding slowly toward the edge. Desperately, he forced himself to transform. His cockpit grated over the rocky terrain and another dizzying bout of agony washed over him. He could hear his scream this time.

Legs dangling into nothingness, Starscream sought for something to grab onto. His servos dug into the mud, clutching at nothing but loose pebbles. The cliff was too unstable and his body too heavy. The inevitable outcome to his struggles became alarmingly clear.

I’m going to fall, he stilled and felt himself slip further, I’m going to die.

There would be no saving himself this time; he’d smash to pieces on the rocks below before his taxed transformation cog could even come online. His vision flickered as his cockpit continued to grind over the rocks, bringing him ever closer to his doom. All Starscream could manage now was a faint whimper, his screams spent.

He knew he deserved this; it was his fault that he and Skyfire had been caught up in this Primusforsaken storm on this Primusforsaken planet. His fault that Skyfire was likely a shattered corpse on the mountain side. Still, as he began his final descent, a voice - a shameful voice that refused to be quieted no matter how much he tried - shrieked in his head, clamoring to be heard above all else.

I don’t want to die!

Terror seized his spark, shocking his limbs into one last, frantic attempt at salvation. It was futile.

I DON’T WANT TO DIE!

He fell. Opening his mouth, he let out a final, broken scream.

“Skyfire!!!”

“I’ve got you!”

As suddenly as the fall had begun, it stopped. His arm pulled taught and lances of pain pierced through it and his cockpit. The world disappeared, sapped of everything but a cold blackness. After countless moments, warmth and color seeped back in, as a familiar voice, the one that had called to him, spoke again. It was insistent, desperate, as were the arms clasping his limp form. Starscream’s optics fritzed a bit before coming back online. He was in some kind of cave. He could see the deep grey of the sky just beyond and feel the wind and rain graze his wing. It was all remote though. He was more aware of the arms wrapped protectively about him, the feel of someone large and sturdy holding him close. Above all else, he saw brilliant blue optics staring down at him. He watched them soften as a quiet sigh reached his auditory sensors. It was the most beautiful sound he’d ever heard.

“Thank Primus,” Skyfire breathed, “Starscream, can you hear me?”

Starscream wanted to respond but he couldn’t. All he could do was stare, drinking in the sight of the bot before him. Skyfire was alive. Somehow his mind couldn’t yet process it. He was here. They were together again.

Skyfire’s anxious voice broke in on his thoughts, “It’s okay, Starscream, it’s okay,” It was only then that the smaller jet realized he’d started babbling.

“I’m sorry! I’m sorry! I’m sorry!” he gasped, “I’m sorry!”

“It’s okay,” Skyfire repeated, “We’re okay.”

Starscream couldn’t stop, “We almost died! I-I almost killed us!”

“But we’re okay now,” Skyfire replied gently, “I’ve got you.”

He rested a servo on the back of Starscream’s head. The touch snapped Starscream back to his senses and he shoved him away. The movement sent shards of pain through him and he clutched a servo to the mangled cockpit situated over his chest.

“Don’t,” he hissed as Skyfire reached for him. He was still shielded by the cave, but he could feel the wind lap hungrily at his wings as he moved backward.

He stopped -  afraid to move any further - and met Skyfire’s worried gaze.

“How...” he began, pausing for a moment to gather his strength, “How can you...This is all my fault! I should have listened to you! Skyfire, I...You could have died because of me.”

“I didn’t.”

“Stop saying that!”

Skyfire regarded him helplessly. Starscream hated it.

“Why aren’t you mad?” he prompted angrily, “You should be furious! You should be...Stop looking at me like that!!!”

He didn’t. “Do you want me to be mad?” Skyfire asked quietly.

Yes...No. “I don’t know!!! Just-” he had to pause before the pain overwhelmed him.

Skyfire moved closer. Starscream told himself not to, but his whole frame ached and trembled and he yearned to be back in Skyfire’s arms, so when Skyfire reached again, the smaller jet could do nothing but melt into him. He cursed his weakness.

“Starscream,” Skyfire’s voice pierced through the turmoil within him. Defeated, Starscream could only listen.

“I’m not angry with you. I don’t think I could ever be angry with you. Don’t ask me why; I don’t know either. What I do know is that I lost you in the storm and assumed the worst, so even though you’re upset, I’d like to just hold you for a while, if that’s okay.”

It was far too easy to comply. Already relaxed against Skyfire, Starscream let himself be pulled closer. The larger jet took special care not to aggravate his injury. It would need to be dealt with, but not now. Right this moment, all Starscream needed was the surety of Skyfire’s arms around him. All his guilt and shame still burned within him, but he couldn’t focus on it if he tried.

They were safe. They were together. That was all that mattered.

“I’ve got you,” Skyfire murmured again, “I’ve always got you.”

Present

The edge of the mountain was shrouded in rain and mist. Even as Starscream dove toward it, he couldn’t be certain he hadn’t flung himself off. His arm extended into nothing. His feet dug into the mud as he felt himself fall forward, just barely managing to snag a jutting rock.

As his entire frame came to a jarring halt, Starscream’s processor seemed to rattle with it. What was he doing? He couldn’t think. The image of Skyfire’s frightened face as he tumbled over the edge was seared into his mind. It was all he could focus on.

I’ve got you. I’ve always got you.

“Skyfire!!!” The call reverberated through Starscream’s spark, splitting it open as forgotten feelings and buried dreams clawed their way out. He couldn’t halt the flood; it washed over him, drowning him in memories.

“Starscream!”

That voice - as it always had - snapped him from the mire of his mind. He peered downward. Just below him, hanging by a crumbling ledge, was Skyfire.

For a moment, it was Starscream hanging for dear life, crying out for rescue. He blinked and the roles reversed again. 

As his precarious handhold collapsed beneath his digits, Skyfire desperately tried to bring another servo up to help. He was forced to stop as the movement only made him slip faster. Rain hissed over the place where Starscream had shot him and he grimaced as smoke blended with the mist. He looked up, blue optics shining in the gloom. Starscream nearly lost his grip when they focused on him.

He recognized those optics. They were the very same that used to look at him as if he were the most lovely thing in the universe. Even when they’d explored new, vibrant planets, he’d felt those optics gazing at him with a fondness that made him want to both laugh and scream. He wasn’t sure which he did now, but from the way the blue of Skyfire’s eyes widened with recognition of his own, he figured it was laughter.

“Skyfire…” he reached for him.

Eyes shining, Skyfire’s servo lifted to meet his, “...Starscream?”

His handhold crumbled even more but neither paid any heed. The storm and the clash of Autobots and Decepticons became remote. This time, though, the world didn’t seem to shrink until it was just the two of them. It seemed to grow. Starscream felt a heavy weight in his spark start to lift. His servo reached past millions of years to seek out that familiar yet forgotten touch. He wanted it more than anything, just a hint at what they once were and could be again.

In the faltering light, the insignia affixed to Skyfire’s chest gleamed.

The world shrank. The weight in Starscream’s spark settled back down until he almost felt it would drag him over the edge.

He snatched his hand away just as Skyfire’s digits grazed his own. The touch was like electricity arcing through him. It was tantalizingly, achingly familiar. It promised love and security and everything that had been denied him for millions of years.

It was a convincing lie, but Starscream couldn’t be fooled that easily. 

As he stood up slowly, Skyfire’s round, wide, and impossibly blue optics followed him. Starscream wanted to plunge his digits into them until the Autobot started screaming. The flicker of horror he felt at the thought died instantly as Skyfire spoke again.

“Starscream?” he repeated, his voice wavering.

It was his voice, and for the first time in his long, painful life, Starscream was not consoled by it.

“You…” His voice should have been lost to the wind but somehow Skyfire heard and grew deathly silent.

Memories collided within Starscream’s mind. Skyfire holding him, speaking softly to him, laughing with him, exploring with him, rescuing him...

They were all lies. Skyfire betrayed him. Starscream had circled half the globe searching for him, carried the weight of guilt for so long that it had become as familiar as flight, suffered in silence for cycles upon cycles, all for what?

“Starscream,” the Autobot begged, “Please.”

The plea was music to Starscream’s auditory sensors. He let it play, let Skyfire try to sway him again, enjoying every moment of the Autobot’s agony.

Skyfire’s voice grew quiet, “Don’t you remember?”

Starscream hesitated. He did remember. All of it. His fists clenched as his foot stomped downward.

“TRAITOR!!!”

Helpless, Skyfire could only give a strangled cry as Starscream’s foot crunched into his upturned face. The Decepticon watched his enemy fall, his own face lighting up with a terrible grin.

Skyfire barely managed to slow his descent by digging his servos into the muddy cliffside just enough to crash into a protruding ledge. He lay there motionless for countless moments, his recent fall marked by dents in his fuselage and muddy stains dimming his crisp white. He looked broken. Starscream couldn’t remember the last time he’d been this happy.

When Skyfire at last came to, his gaze was unfocused. The clear blue of his eyes were crusted with dirt and likely cracked by the impact of Starscream’s foot. The steady rain did a poor job of washing all the muck from his frame, only succeeding in making it bleed into the remaining white. His optics turned upward and somehow found Starscream in the hazy mist. He almost seemed to know where the other jet was without needing to see.

It was there, atop that war torn peak, that Skyfire first looked upon Starscream with fury. No, not fury. Hate.

“Skyfire!” Optimus Prime’s booming voice echoed across the mountain, “Where are you?”

Starscream turned. The Autobots stood on a field of victory, the remains of the Decepticons’ machine scattered amongst its fallen creators. He scowled and turned to confront his foes, when he felt a sudden whoosh of air blast past him. Looking up, he watched as Skyfire sailed over his head to land heavily on the mountaintop.

Without hesitation, Starscream opened fire, only to hit the dirt when the other Autobots returned it. By the time he tentatively lifted his head, all three Autobots had retreated into Skyfire’s fuselage. NO! Starscream rushed forward, his guns vainly attempting to bring the cargo plane down even though he knew he was out of range.

“NO!” he shrieked into the mist, “COME BACK, YOU COWARD!”

But Skyfire had already been lost to the grey sky, leaving Starscream alone. Again.

He continued to stare at the space where he’d last seen Skyfire, unable to look away. He felt as if he’d been awoken from a cruel dream. It took every bit of his willpower not to scream his agony into the sky above. All he wanted in that moment was to hunt Skyfire down and make him suffer. He wanted to hear his screams of terror as he at last cornered him and slammed him into the dirt, gun pointed right between those too blue optics.

How could you do this? He’d scream, Did any of it matter? Did I matter?

Starscream knew the answer already. He turned to face his forces, who all looked to him for guidance.

“Decepticons, take flight!” Without waiting to see if they followed, Starscream transformed and took to the air. To his dismay, there was no trace of the Autobots. They’d be back, though; they never stayed down.

One of them will, Starscream vowed, That traitor will die by my hand.

The rain continued to pour as three jets - and one passenger cassette - returned to their base, leaving the mountain top to be shrouded in mist once more. All they left of their battle were the remnants of an evil machine and a singular gun that had slipped from a foolish Autobot’s hand.

Epilogue- Past

The flight back to Cybertron felt like it lasted millions of cycles. Crouched in Skyfire’s fuselage, Starscream lamented as much to his partner. Skyfire’s only response was an exasperated yet fond sigh; Starscream could tell he was just glad to hear him speak without wheezing.

The damage to his cockpit was extensive but not life-threatening. After a thorough inspection, Skyfire had determined as much. He’d carefully removed some of the smaller bits of crystal from Starscream’s frame and left the larger ones to be handled by a medic. Starscream had wanted to appear brave, but he hadn’t been able to stifle the quiet whimper that escaped him. Luckily, Skyfire responded by wrapping him up in another hug, which had instantly soothed the smaller jet.

When they at last returned to Cybertron, Skyfire was quick to usher him to a medic. In fact, Starscream’s feet barely touched the ground before Skyfire scooped him up and rushed into the medical facility. The hospital was just one branch of the science center that had been built there. For the most part, the civil unrest that had broken out over Cybertron had not affected the science community. It was only a matter of time, though.

Starscream and Skyfire were meant to report to their superiors in the Scientific Exploration department. After much convincing from Starscream, Skyfire had at last agreed to leave his side and speak with the higher-ups, taking a few samples of crystal with him, also at Starscream’s urging. It was what they’d been sent for, after all; it shouldn’t matter that they’d ended up having to gather it from Starscream’s mangled cockpit.

The procedure to repair his cockpit was fairly long but luckily Starscream was in stasis for most of it. When he awakened and examined himself, he was pleased by the results. He didn’t think he’d ever seen his windows shine quite so brightly. He couldn’t help but hope Skyfire would notice, too.

Skyfire was pacing in the waiting room when he emerged. The moment Skyfire spotted him, he almost seemed to teleport to his side.

“Are you okay? I was worried something had gone wrong.”

“Don’t worry, Skyfire,” Starscream said with a slight smile, “I am the picture of health.”

Skyfire looked him up and down, “You’re certainly...shinier,” he said with a bit of awe.

Starscream beamed internally, “Thank you for noticing.”

The two walked out side by side, arms brushing. Starscream wanted to savor the moment, but his curiosity got the better of him.

“So, what did our bosses have to say?” he asked, barely hiding his disdain. He didn’t like having to report to superiors; he’d rather make his own decisions than comply with someone else’s. Maybe one day…

“The crystals seem promising, though they’ll have to perform further tests,” Skyfire replied, “In the meantime, there’s another planet they want us to investigate right away. It’s uncharted, as of yet. There might not even be intelligent life on the surface, though long distance scans hint to a great energy source.”

Ordinarily, Starscream would have leaped for joy at an assignment such as this, but as he watched Skyfire speak, he couldn’t help but recall how close he’d been to losing him. They were lucky to stand here together at all.

Sensing his hesitation, Skyfire favored Starscream with a concerned frown, “What’s the matter?”

“You know what’s the matter,” Starscream huffed. He didn’t mean to take his anger out on his partner - especially since he was really mad at himself - but it was difficult. Skyfire didn’t respond in kind, though. He never did.

“It’ll be okay, Starscream,” Skyfire reached down to grasp his servo firmly, “So long as we’re together, we’ll be okay.”

And because Skyfire’s voice never failed to console him, Starscream believed what he said. He squeezed his servo back and smiled up into Skyfire’s brilliant blue eyes.

“Together, then.”

[needs-to-stop-looking-at-valves]

Oh damn that Dreadwing request! Hoo boy, that was a fun read. If requests weren’t closed I might’ve asked for what Skyquake and Maxima were doing, but that’s alright. If I remember/someone doesn’t ask for it before me, I might come back when you’re ready for more.

You know what? You’re the last ask I have in here, and I honestly LOVE doing stuff of Skyquake and Dreadwing. So fuck it, you get what you want, dot (it helps that you honestly acknowledge that my inbox gets closed, and that you have an odd talent of requesting people I ACTUALLY wanna write for).

*also there’s NOTHING in terms of content for this bitch, so I can write her however the fuck I want-

“If I didn’t trust them, we wouldn’t be here.”

With those parting words, Skyquake let Dreadwing be taken away. It was his first time in a place like this, so he understood the hesitation, but he’d be dammed if his brother’s nerves got in between him having a good time with Maxima. Primus, what a fem. One from Caminus, she was not only a fine looking thing, but she was quite rebellious; refusing to partake in the traditional standards, and opted to moving to Cybertron instead. Combine that with the fact that she had a smart mouth, and it was no wonder why he became one of her regulars. He plucked a flower from a vase in the hallway, before entering the room he was told to go in. She wasn’t here just yet. Not that he minded waiting. He looked himself over in the vanity mirror. He was glad his brother didn’t notice, but he DID get himself a bit of a touch up, just for tonight. Nothing major, just a fresh coat of paint. Something to make him look less...dusty, you could say.

“To think, you did something so shameful, just for a pretty fem.”

Skyquake couldn’t help it. She really proved to be someone he thought of often. Not that he’d ever tell Dreadwing. You kidding? His brother even suspecting just a HINT of romance between him and another bot? It’d be nothing but questions for weeks. He supposed he couldn’t really blame him. Afterall, he was-

“Is that your brother down the hallway? The blue one?”

He turned to the voice. Maxima. Lovely as ever. Stunning purple paint, hips for days, and the most stunning set of wings you’d ever see on a jet. He chuckled as she walked in.

“Yes. My big brother, actually. If only by a few kliks.”

He presented her the flower, and she accepted it, chuckling.

“Ah, nothing like a good hallway flower to pluck at the spark strings.”

“W-I’ll have you know I’m offended!”

He made a fake face of offense, which only brought another chuckle from her. He loved making her laugh. Her optics would shine brighter than the stars, and even though he had never seen her without her face mask, he knew she was smiling. She patted his chest, as if they were old friends.

“Oh, boo hoo, the creation day boy has his feelings hurt.”

She walked past him to put the flower in a proper vase, before Skyquake put his hands on her shoulders.

“Is that anyway to talk to a mech who actually DID get you something?”

“If it’s from the hallway, I think I’ll pass.”

“No no, I’m quite serious.”

He dug into his sub space, and presented her with a little box. She scanned it over curiously, before taking it from his hands. They had fragged quite a few times, but he STILL felt nervous whenever their hands touched. She looked it over, before taking off the box. Her wings perked up in attention, and her optics glimmered. She liked anything that glistened and gleamed, even just bits of shiny metal, but Skyquake really outdid himself this time.

“You...got me pearls?”

“Not JUST pearls. Pearls right from Aquatron.”

“Huh. Can’t afford extra time with me, yet you can afford pearls?”

He deserved that, honestly. He gave a soft chuckle, carefully taking the little earrings from their casing.

“I have friends in many places, many of whom owe me favors. I expected a thank you, honestly.”

He carefully clipped them onto her audial fins, and she gazed at herself in the vanity.

“Alright, alright, I’ll give you that much. I love them. I’ve ALWAYS wanted pearls.”

She caught him looking at her, and she chuckled, lightly tapping his cheek.

“Quit looking at me like that.”

“I paid to spend time with you, didn’t I?”

There was a moment of comfortable silence between them, before he suddenly got up, sweeping her off her seat and walking over to the berth.

“Hey, easy there tiger, I JUST got waxed.”

He plopped her onto the berth, propping himself up by his elbows. She looked so precious underneath him, but looks were deceiving. Quick witted, ever unimpressed by his actions or his words. She was a constant challenge for him, and he adored her for that. He dug his face into the crook of her neck, trailing his kisses along her neck cables. Her servos brushed against his chest, slowly and softly dipping into the nooks and cracks of his armor. He always loved how nicely she treated him. At the beginning at least.

“So, what are we looking at today? Thigh jobs? Valve stuff? Or are you feeling frisky enough for a wing job?”

She was a bit of a pervert. Just like he was. Especially since he was going to ask for something just awful. He lightly tapped his claw against her face mask.

“I...I want to kiss you.”

Her brow furrowed at him, and her hands tore away from his chest.

“You know my rule. No mouth stuff.”

“Maxima, I haven't stopped thinking about what they might look like. I’d do anything to see that smile of yours. I swear, I won’t tell a single spark.”

She was always so against seeing her actual face. It was some secret about her that he desperately wanted to know. She groaned, before conceding under his gaze. 

“I have rules.”

“Name them.”

“I’m charging you triple my rate.”

“Fair.”

“I am NOT sucking you off.”

“Disappointing, but fair.”

“If you tell anyone about this, I’ll have your helm on my wall.”

“Primus you’re beautiful.”

She groaned, as if he was a pain to deal with. Then she did it. She pulled her face mask apart, and Skyquake swore he had never seen anything more beautiful. Not a single sunset, not a single full moon. Full, purple lips that looked softer than clouds.

“Why...do you hide your face so often?”

“Bots stare at me. Like how you are.”

“Because you’re gorgeous. You’re just…”

His voice trailed off as he got lost in her features. He leaned down towards her, and finally, FINALLY, pressed his lips onto hers. He was careful with her, not wanting her to regret showing her such a huge part of herself. She held onto the back of his helm, only making him cherish her touch more. He pulled away from her, lightly panting. Some mechs were aroused by fems opening their panels or putting on pretty clothes. He was interested in smart, pretty mouths, just like hers.

“Anyone at home, big guy?”

He realized he had caught himself staring at her, like some fool. Could she really blame him? His breath was short, his frame was hot.

“I’m VERY sorry for what I’m about to do.”

Whatever she was going to say was silenced as he forced his lips upon hers again. His servos felt along her wings, and she knew him well enough to take the hint. She opened her valve panel, and was sweet enough to open his spike panel. She stroked his spike, and he rubbed her valve in firm, rather aggressive circles. He loved how soft and wet she was, loved that little tiny piercing that was just under her node. Fems couldn’t get piercings back on Caminus, and that small act of rebellion only furthered his lust for her. He yanked her up from her back, right into his lap to face him. He sat on the edge of the berth, grabbed a handful of her aft, and slammed her down right onto his spike. He was usually so much more careful with her, but not tonight. Not with her mouth open like that, not when her wings stood up so perky for him. He kept a hold of her aft, using it as means of slamming her down onto him over and over. He had no idea if her moans were real, but Primus they SOUNDED real. Drool dripping from her smudged, plump lips. Primus he liked her lips.

“P-Primus I thought you were going to be easy on-”

“Rub your node for me.”

Skyquake couldn't help himself. When he really wanted her, really craved her overload, he tended to be a bit demanding. She obeyed, rubbing her little node in time to his constant, rough pounding of her valve. 

“If I didn’t know any better, I’d t-think you’re close already. Didn’t know you were into being treated rough.”

“I’ll snap your spike right off.”

Primus, he could swoon for that look. The makeup under her optics made her look even scarier, like some feral tiger. 

“I’m going to overload in you.”

“Don’t you FUCKING dare.”

They knew each other well. If she honestly had a problem with it, his aft would be thrown right out the damn window. She was playing a silly, sexy little game with him. His claws dug into her aft, really clawing at the paint, and he continued to use her for his spike. He was so close, so eagerly throbbing. That was when he slammed his spike right up against that perfect spot, and overloaded. He knew he shouldn’t have, but he also leaned in, biting her bottom lip. That seemed to be so sudden, so surprising for her, her wings fanned out, and she overloaded right after him. It helped force more overload from his spike, only pouring more into her and dripping onto the berth beneath them. They say there, panting and basking in their afterglow. She went to rub the drool off of her lip, before looking at her hand.

“You...bit me! I’m bleeding!”

“I-I’m so sorry! I just-”

“You son of a GLITCH.”

He thought he was about to get just murdered then and there, only to have her fling herself at him, knocking them both off the berth, and onto the floor. She was going to regret that. Even if it meant making him beg for mercy.

----------------------------------

“So he doesn’t know you smoke?”

“Oh Primus no. He’d kill me.”

They sat on the floor, nothing but a messy sheet over their wet, sore frames. He had no idea how much extra fees he was tacking onto the bill, but he didn’t care. She was here, kissing and licking at his servos, just how he asked. With his free hand, he took another inhale of his cygar, blowing smoke back out into the room. She chuckled against his hand, only smearing more purple lipstick against his green paint.

“Maybe he should. You’re a beast of a mech.”

“Pfft, you say that to all your clients.”

“No actually. They treat me like a lady. You treat me like a chew toy.”

He was going to argue against that, but seeing the plentiful bite and scratch marks across her frame, made any words there useless. He shrugged, taking another inhale of smoke.

“I...like you. I’ve been with almost everyone else here, but I like you the most. You and I...are a lot alike. Happy to be out of Caminus. Happy to be here, with you.”

She leaned up, kissing at his chin.

“I can tell. This is the most amount of time you’ve bought since...ever, really. Too bad you can’t get anymore, I have an appointment in a few minutes.”

His spark felt pained. He had to leave her so soon? He sighed, putting out his Cygar, and rolling to his side to face her. He felt some odd sense of pride, knowing he left that little scar at her lips.

“Alright. I suppose I need to check on my brother anyway. But just...one more question.”

“You really wanna stretch out the clock, huh? Alright, shoot, big blue.”

“Can you...wear those earrings whenever I come see you? Call me selfish, but I like the idea of being special to you.”

She chuckled. She pushed down his chin, and slowly, sensually, dragged her glossa against his. She got off the floor, slamming her face mask back over her features.

“You’re special. You’re the only one that knows how to piss me off. Now get off the floor, less you be swept up with the rest of the garbage in here.”

She slipped out of the room, and he chuckled, watching her leave. What a fem. He was going to make his move. Someday. Nothing was going to keep him from that. 

Even if it killed him.

[autoacafiles]

📂

In every elementary school, a tale is told. The Primordials who emerged from the depths of Cybertron and laid siege to the peoples of the surface, driven by a strange madness and declaring themselves the true heirs to Cybertron. Brave knights, armed with swords given power through photonic crystals, drove them back.

Eventually, their underground lairs were located, and it was found that not every Primordial was affected by this madness. To make sure the sane Primordials would not be sought out by the kin of those slain by their maddened breatheren, they were taken to a new world far from Cybertron.

Every elementary school lesson ends with this final note - The Cybertronians and Primordials parted ways, and peace through separation was made eternal.

The truth is different after this point.

The Primordials that migrated to their new homeworld of Teroinga, named after the ancestral name of their race, lost neither their minds nor their history. They recognized that the Cybertronians chose to grant them a new world of their own and that they now owed a lot of great debts to their changeable breather en. And they were dedicated to repaying it.

Every effort to even that favor has been recorded. Datatrack by datatrack. Page after page.

Strange clues leading to massive energon deposits that were seemingly dug open overnight.

Alien warlords finding their outposts' defenses sabotaged by the hands of unknown parties.

The continuing success of the Alien Hunt tv show in finding rarely sighted alien species.

The Karack 8 Expedition.

The sudden completion of the Gunnison Spacebridge.

Bugout's continuing success as an Engex Distributor in spite of being in a remote region.

Another hour of another day, another favor repaid. But the Book of the Great Debt, even now...

...Remains full...