The Energon Pub

[This post has been edited slightly.]

Med Bay:

Rosanna woke up in a CR chamber like many others in the room. However unlike the others, she had waited a bit before her little nap for a chamber to open, so as a result, she remembered clearly what happened. She was not badly damaged before entering the medical bay so, she was not knocked out either.

She got up out of the chamber and stretched her arms before standing with obviously a bit better posture than many a bot who had woken up out of their CR chambers and were falling over out of dizziness.

Rose looked around after yawning, and then looked at a clock that she had just looked at before getting in the CR chamber, “Ehh been about 11 Kliks since I entered I’d say. Not bad at all.”

Rosanna stretched out her legs a bit and cracked a few of her knuckles that were feeling uncomfortable before a certain blue and orange car-bot spotted her with a surprised look on his face...

"Uh, are you... Rosanna???" asked Clocker in a loud tone that made it obvious that he was a fan.

"Uh... y-yes," said Rosanna hesitantly, "but, I'm not really who I used to b-"

"Oh my GOSH I remember your music!" shouted Clocker who was easily distracted.

Clocker turned back to Blurr, "Sorry, Rosanna was; or I should say IS the best Cybertronian musician EVER! I have all of her albums!"

If transformers could blush, Rosanna would be right now. However, her color already made her look like she was anyway.

"Uh, hi?" said Rosanna as she walked over to where Clocker, Blurr, Hardhead, Hot Rod, and Velocity; whom she assumed was one of the medical personnel; was.

Rosanna paused, and then said with a bit of a bitter look on her face, "I am no longer a pop star. I'm an Autobot now. In fact, I've been an Autobot for a long time now. It's been a rough time I can tell you."

Clocker then said after a brief pause, "Well, Blurr brought up the idea of us all going to the lounge. Want to come along?"

Rosanna crossed her arms and said, "Well, if there's nothing better to do. Alright."

Cliffjumper then came back over to the rest of the group.

"Hey Cliff, any luck?" asked Clocker.

"Nope, but even if Optimus is actually in there, I probably should let him rest anyway," said Cliffjumper simply.

Rosanna perked up, "Optimus?"

"Oh, hey Rose. You're part of Blaster's team right? How's it going with you and them?-" asked Cliffjumper.

Before Rosanna could answer though, Clocker piped in, "-AND she's like the best singer EVER."

Rosanna smirked and rolled her optics before then responding to Cliff, "Yes, Blaster and the team are a great bunch of Bots. We're all great friends. Eject taught me a few tips about signal infiltration. Though, Eject is a bit of a funny one," Rosanna chuckled.

Med Bay-–Private Room

Kup's concerns about the increasing number of visitors was clearly one that Ratchet, unsurprisingly, shared. He didn't exactly want to put Prime through some battery of tests and make sure he was absolutely pristine before reacquainting him with their forces, but he didn't want to overwhelm the Autobot Prime either. It was a delicate balancing act. If he was back, the troops needed to know and be able to see and touch and talk with the mech who had been the primary source of their inspiration for countless vorns. By the same token, they had to make sure Optimus was ready to do that...or discover what exactly Optimus was comfortable doing after having been put out of action the way he was.

“That sounds like a slaggin’ fantastic idea! How about you accompany him,” Ratchet said, agreeing with Kup's earlier statement, before moving in closer and adding a quieter afterthought. "Kup…Get him out of here but keep him away from Megatron. We don’t need him recording anything just yet.”

"Right, doc," Kup nodded before reaching down to reignite a fresh cy-gar, waving Rewind along to follow him as he turned to leave the private bay. Just outside, the imposing form of Ultra Magnus stood, along with Cliffjumper and the carefully observant optics of other mechs nearby.

"Ratchet's clearin' everybody out," he said to his superior officer. "I was just gettin' ready to dive in to yer next assignment on my list, heh."

He started to ease his way through the gathered mechs but stopped partway through and turned back to face Magnus.

"We can't keep him locked away for too long. The troops're gonna wanna know he's back. They need to know. I didn't know how much I needed it 'til I saw him just now."

Med Bay – Private Room

“Whoa! I didn’t say anything about you leaving just yet. So stay. You can have your little chat with Magnus later.”

Prime smiled at Ratchet wryly, making no further moves toward the exit. So Magnus was in this sector. Optimus wondered if the news had spread to outer sectors about his…supposed disappearance. It seemed like he had been gone for quite some time. He deferred to Ratchet’s judgement about who would stay and who would go. It was his area of expertise.

“Lie down so we can this started. Bee, Jazz I want you two to start feeding him some shared memories. Anything’ll do…memories of missions, before the war…whatever you have then spill it.”

Optimus complied, laying down upon the examination slab, looking at Ratchet, then Bumblebee and Jazz. Shared memories. It worrisome to think of how his accounts might differ from those of Jazz and Bee. His dear comrades. Friends. Well. He supposed there was no better time to test it than this moment.

“I am ready when you two are.”

Rewind cast one last look back at Optimus Prime, a bit of jubilation still present in his frame. He couldn’t wait to tell Domey. In fact, why wait? As Rewind followed Kup out of the private bay, he opened a comm line to Chromedome.

>>”You’re never going to believe who I just saw,”<< Rewind said, the excitement in his voice clear.

Rewind listened idly while he waited for a response from his conjunx endura to Kup telling Magnus about Prime. The others did need to know. Everyone did. It was so good to have him back. So many had thought he was gone for good this time.

Medical Bay: Outside Private Quarters

Ultra Magnus' expression remained neutral as his chin rested against his chest. The dim voices filtered through the bulkhead and bend offering only the faintest hints of jubilation. It was not unexpected, particularly given who had been granted access to the notable information regarding the return of the iconic hero. In fact there were moments only a handful of breems ago that he himself had toyed with the idea of abandoning duty to indulge in personal acquaintances with his long sundered kin. But that was not allowed, regardless of how he wished it otherwise. Ultra Magnus had assumed the role of Commander and Chief, a role that he was willing to surrender as soon as Optimus was capable of bearing it, and that position required sacrifices. Deploying the Dinobots and their strike team to take down the Decepticon Outpost and gather data regarding their new weapon in Devastator was priority... recovering the missiles before the humans unlocked secrets beyond their present level of technological development was another. There was also the matter of their other guests. The insufferable Megatron also required his attention, although the tyrant would soon be out of his proverbial processors for the foreseeable future. But most importantly was the artifact he had reclaimed and was now safely stowed away within a secured compartment within his armor.

Absently he tapped his finger against his left shoulder plate as his thoughts slowly drifted in and out of the now. He twisted his wrist once or twice to check a chronometer and the status gauge on the Guardian's final preparations for departure. The corrupted spark of the Fallen, sealed within a spark harvester canister... One more breem remained before he would be required to head to the bridge.

Ultra Magnus raised his head as he pushed himself off of the bulkhead. Yet another reason he needed to postpone his visit with the mending Prime. In his weakened condition, should the containment on the seal fail... the thought was too troubling to complete. Instead he lowered his arms to his side and pivoted towards the turbo lift. Before he could take a step, however, his old mentor and friend emerged from Optimus Prime's quarters. Magnus said nothing initially.

As the old timer turned, the General could read an unexpected calm over the veteran's features. Beneath him the small archivist, Rewind emerged from the chamber as well. He barely glanced into Prime's recovery room, noting that Ratchet was already shooing out visitors, save for one or two of Optimus Prime's favorite subordinates. "I trust you have already selected your operative, Kup?" He spoke carefully to guard his words so that they could not be easily read by the occupants of the Private Quarters.

He began to walk passed the security operative turned defacto Operations Commander for the city currently under construction. Ultra Magnus did not turn into the ward, instead pausing only briefly to allow his presence to be sensed before advancing a few steps passed the threshold. He stopped again and turned to face his long time friend. "As long as it takes Kup, let the rumors flow as they may... But until Optimus is truly ready, truly capable of assuming the greatest burden of our people, I intend to protect him the only way we can."

Med Bay – Secluded Area

Tracer finally let herself relax as Smokescreen drew her in close and wrapped his arms around her frame. Instinctively she slipped her arms around him and let her head rest in the crook of his neck.

“You don’t have to worry about me anymore, Trace. I’m fine. In fact, I’ve never felt better.”

She smiled at his words and pulled away slightly letting him caress the side of her face with his brand new hand.

“As long as I have you I’ll always be okay. I promise.”

After a moment she noticed his expression shift to that of concern. She was about to question it when he suddenly cut in.

"How about you, though? You didn't look so good the last time I saw you before my CR nap. Are you feeling all right?"

Tracer flashed the diversionary tactician a tender smile before she set her head back down on his shoulder.

“I’m….” she paused for a moment trying to find the right word and finally settled on, “better.” The blue and white scout squeezed Smokescreen just a little bit tighter as she spoke to again…this time she kept her voice low so only he could hear.

“I had to increase the dose. I’m having doubts…I don’t think weaning off Syk using a synthetic version is going to work.”

Medical Bay

Hot Rod held on tight as he pulled the larger Hardhead up to a standing position. The big green and yellow mech thanked him. “No problem,” the cavalier replied as he let go of the veteran’s hand. Clocker then came up and began conversing with Hardhead, who wanted to know what they were going to do now. Bashing ‘Cons was one option the green ‘bot seemed to like, but Clocker had other ideas, wanting to first rejoice in the return of Optimus Prime.

“Nothing wrong with rejoicing,” Hot Rod said as Blurr quickly arrived on scene and suggested that they all head down to the mess hall and get some much needed energon. The cavalier considered the blue speedster’s proposal for a moment. After everything Roddy had recently been through – the possession, the weird dreams, the visions, the voices that still rattled around in his head – what could it hurt to down a drink or two? “Count me in, Blurr, just as long as it’s high grade and you're buying. Heh.”

For the briefest of astroseconds, Hot Rod sounded like his old self again. It didn’t last long, though, as the slight smile that had escaped his faceplate vanished almost as quickly as it had appeared. Regardless, Clocker seemed up for a drink, as well, but before anyone else was able to respond to Blurr's suggestion, Velocity noticed them and called out to Hardhead. As she approached the ever growing group, she demanded to know what was going on and if anyone had examined either the green veteran or the cavalier, himself.

“Nice to see you again, Velocity,” Hot Rod responded plainly. “I just woke up a short time ago. And, no, neither one of us has had a post-CR exam if that’s what you’re asking. But, I feel fine or at least as fine as I’m going to. In fact, we were all just about to head down to grab a drink and relax for a bit...”

The flame-covered mech’s words trailed off at the sudden arrival of Hex, who stared at him for a tense moment before taking Hot Rod’s hand into his own. “It’s okay. Understand, you weren’t in control,” Hex said as he pulled the cavalier closer to him, whispering into his audio receptor. “And neither was he.” The former herald then moved back over to a nearby slab where he sat down.

The expression across Hot Rod’s visage was one of bewilderment. Was Hex trying to comfort him or was he trying to confuse him? Or was it a little of both? That last part of Hex's statement puzzled the cavalier the most, and he wasn’t exactly in the mood for riddles. “Hey wait an astrosecond, Hex!” Hot Rod called out to him as the red and orange mech moved past the gathered Autobots and over to the former herald’s med birth. “What exactly did you mean 'neither was he'? He who? Are you talking about Hardhead or one of the other heralds?”

The cavalier then paused for a moment as he considered the only other possibility. “The Fallen? Are you saying the Fallen wasn’t in control? Don’t sit there and smirk at me, Hex. This isn’t a joke. Just answer the fraggin’ question!”

Medical Bay – Secluded Area

Smokescreen kept his optics fixated on Tracer's visage as she seemed to hesitate slightly before flashing him a tender smile and laying her head back onto his shoulder plate. “I’m…. better,” she replied to him as the rallybot felt her grip around his frame tighten. She wasn’t hurting him, not by a long shot. In fact, her renewed embrace felt good, but Smokey also knew that there was something more behind that embrace that she was a bit reluctant to share. “I had to increase the dose. I’m having doubts…I don’t think weaning off Syk using a synthetic version is going to work.”

And there it was. Doubt. But, even more so, she had increased her dosage to a much more dangerous level in order to get the same relief that real Syk used to provide her. Unfortunately, the real stuff was no longer an option for her as Oil Slick would likely not want to deal with Tracer again after what had happened, at least, not without a very high price attached. Regardless, the diversion expert would never allow it. Never again would the blue and white scout be taken advantage of by that putrid Decepticon chemist. The ex-street racer would find another way.

Before saying anything, Smokescreen reached out and pulled the privacy curtain fully closed so the two of them were completely isolated from the rest of the med bay. Then, keeping his voice low so that only Tracer could hear him, the rallybot spoke softly to the troubled femme as her head remained on his shoulder plate. “I see. I’m a little surprised Wheeljack allowed you to take such a high dosage, but I guess with him being here to watch over you he felt that it was safe enough. Still, we can’t have you doing that too many more times. It’s going to take a toll on your systems. Eventually, it might cause severe brain damage or, worse, you might not wake up from that ‘coma‘ at all.” The diversion expert paused for a moment and let out a deep sigh. His mind raced to find a solution, but all he could come up with was more of the same.

“I’m not sure what the answer is, Trace. Perhaps, Wheeljack could simply adjust the formula so that it wouldn’t have such a bad affect on you,” Smokescreen suggested, not really believing that it would work. “If we can’t wean you off and we can’t get the synthetic version to work, the only other option would be to find the real thing. But going back to you-know-who isn’t an option anymore. We’d have to find another source, and I’m not aware of one anywhere near here. So....”

Smokey’s words trailed off as frustration began to set in. He wanted so much to help her, to cure her, it almost physically hurt him inside. There had to be some way to do it. After all, she couldn’t have been the only mech over the vorns with this kind of drug addiction or the mental health problems that had caused all of this in the first place. Someone had to have the answers even if those answers were buried somewhere within the medical archives. It just required a little research, or perhaps a lot of research. Regardless, the rallybot was willing to do whatever it took in order to heal her.

Pulling back from Tracer so that he could look her in the optics again, Smokescreen cast the femme a reassuring smile. “We’ll figure this out, Trace. I promise. The answers are out there. I just have to know where to look in order to find them. Until then, we’ll make whatever adjustments are necessary and to do that, we need to first get back to Wheeljack’s lab over on the Ark. That's where the replicator is. Sound good?”

Not waiting for a verbal response from the drug-addled femme, Smokescreen leaned in and gave her a gentle kiss on the cheek. “Let’s go,” the rallybot whispered as he took her hand into his own and lead Tracer out from behind the privacy curtain and into the main med bay.

Medical Bay Proper

As the duo walked across the room, Smokey noticed a small group of 'bots assembled near where Hot Rod was speaking to Hex. The former gambler then noticed another larger crowd gathered around the door to one of the private rooms. He could see Kup and a few others coming out before the door closed once more. His curiosity getting the better of him, the red and blue mech stopped and looked over to Blurr while still holding Tracer’s hand.

“Hey, Blurr, how you feeling, buddy? You’re looking much better than the last time I saw you,” Smokescreen said, his usual friendly self. “So, what’s going on over there by that door? Looks like a lot of important ‘bots going in and out. Someone special inside?”

Med Bay

“Hey wait an astrosecond, Hex!”

The young bot had already settled down onto his slab when he heard Hot Rod calling out to him. With his legs crossed he let his hands drape over his knees. He already knew the cavalier would seek him out in order to clarify.

“What exactly did you mean 'neither was he'? He who? Are you talking about Hardhead or one of the other heralds?”

Hex remained silent and still. After a tense moment Hex only offered Hot Rod a slight smirk.

“The Fallen? Are you saying the Fallen wasn’t in control? Don’t sit there and smirk at me, Hex. This isn’t a joke. Just answer the fraggin’ question!”

The smirk that had graced the young mech’s face slowly dropped…his optics darkened as he slipped from the surface of the slab. A shadow dulled Hex’s features as he stepped in front of the flamed colored mech. The grayed out shade made the normally youthful angles of his face seem much more sinister.

“The Fallen.” Hex stepped into Hot Rod’s personal space and glared into the other bot’s optics. “He didn’t have a means to an end.” He looked around the room at the injured and the medical staff before he looked back at Hot Rod. “He was a means to an end.” Hex nodded, “Oh, he had a hold of the others….he certainly had a hold of you; he was very adept at pulling the strings.”

Hex smiled; however, it quickly morphed into a quizzical look as he leaned in close. “But…didn’t you ever wonder who might have been pulling his strings?"

Medical Bay

Hex’s little smirk slowly disappeared as he got down from the medical birth and stepped in close to the Autobot cavalier. Hot Rod wasn’t in the mood for games. He wanted an answer and he wanted it now. Thankfully, the former herald in front of him was more than willing to provide one.

“The Fallen. He didn’t have a means to an end. He was a means to an end. Oh, he had a hold of the others….he certainly had a hold of you; he was very adept at pulling the strings. But…didn’t you ever wonder who might have been pulling his strings?"

So, it had been the Fallen that Hex was referring to. Interesting. Hot Rod already knew that the fiery demigod had a master whom he was trying to bring forth into this realm, a chaos bringer that would devour everything in its path. The entire universe would be consumed with only the Fallen and his heralds left in its destructive wake.

“It was Unicron,” Hot Rod whispered to Hex, keeping his optics fixated on the smaller mech. “I knew that the Fallen was trying to free him from whatever prison the chaos bringer was trapped in. He called himself the Harbinger of Unicron and that he was going to open a gateway for his master to enter. I didn’t realize that the Fallen was only a simple puppet, being directly controlled in a similar way we all were. I thought he was more than that, an individual who was just trying to help his master, hoping for a great reward. I...” Hot Rod trailed off for a moment, looking down as he tried to remember when he was trapped inside his own mind with the Fallen. It was becoming more of a blur as time passed, but the cavalier could still feel the demigod’s presence, but he couldn’t recall another presence being there.

Or could he?

“Come to think of it,” Hot Rod continued, returning his gaze to Hex. “There may have been something else there. It was difficult to sense as the Fallen was such an overwhelming presence in my mind, but I do think something else was waiting in the shadows, controlling him as he was controlling us. I just can’t....see it.” The cavalier shook his head. “No, I can’t, but I know there was something or someone else there, whispering to him, waiting to be freed.”

Hot Rod crossed his arms over his chest plate as he briefly glanced back at the small group of 'bots nearby before returning his attention to the former Herald. The cavalier's optics widened as he suddenly remembered what Hex’s true purpose was once the chaos bringer had finally been unleashed. “You were going to be his vessel," Hot Rod revealed as he took a single step back, lowering his arms. "The Fallen said you were ‘compatible’. You were to become Unicron!”

Med Bay

Hex listened but watched much more closely as Hot Rod tried to make sense of all he had said. His lips curled up into a small but distinct smile as Hot Rod drew closer to his own conclusion.

“You were going to be his vessel,"

Ahh, and there it was. Final realization.

"The Fallen said you were ‘compatible’. You were to become Unicron!”

That small smile curved up further into something much more devious. Hex let out a light chuckle and shook his head gently from side to side. “You catch on quick.” He quickly grew serious and caught the cavalier’s optics in his gaze.

After only a moment Hex stepped forward and stopped mere inches away from Hot Rod. He crossed the final centimeters by leaning forward. “I wasn’t a servant of evil.” Hex lowered his voice, “I was upper management.”

No sooner had he made his claim Hex raised his hands and shoved the flame embossed mech backwards. “I said BACK OFF!” He hollered, and glared hard back at the other bot.

The commotion quickly caught the attention of Axle who had been looking after one of his patients. “What the…” He tossed his data pad onto the nearby berth and trotted over to where he saw Hex poised to lunge at Hot Rod.

“What’s going on over here?!” Axle looked from Hex to Hot Rod and back again.

Hex gestured with a jerk of his chin in the orange and red bot’s direction. “He came over here and started…interrogating me! Says I told him something before and he wants me to clarify what I’d said.”

He glanced at his guardian and swiftly went on. “I told him I didn’t say anything other than I knew he wasn’t in control. Now he claims I said more than that. Get him off my back, Ax! Or I swear…”

The medic shook his head and quickly held up his hand to shush his ward. “Enough!” He looked over to Hot Rod. “Is that true?”

As Axle addressed the cavalier Hex peered over the medic’s shoulder, that same dark, devious smirk on his faceplate. Then, with casual ease he brought one finger to his lips and smiled even wider.

Medical Bay

“You catch on quick,” Hex said as he stepped in even closer to the cavalier, lowering his vocals as his visage grew intensely serious. “I wasn’t a servant of evil. I was upper management.”

Hot Rod’s optics widened in shock at the former herald’s assertion that it was he who had really been in control of the Fallen. The cavalier couldn’t help but reveal a deep frown at the silver mech’s statement. What a load of slag. It was impossible for Hex to have been in control of anything, let alone the Fallen, himself. Only the chaos bringer had the power to do that and there was no way Unicron had already possessed Hex’s body. If that had been the case, a Unicron-possessed Hex would not have allowed himself to be sedated so easily, if the sedative would have worked at all. Hex was clearly living up to his reputation of being a real fragger with a very twisted, not to mention evil, sense of humor.

However, before Hot Rod could call him out on his lie, Hex raised both of his hands and shoved the cavalier back. ”I said BACK OFF!” The former herald hollered, looking as though he was about to lunge at Hot Rod. The commotion quickly caught the attention of Axle who immediately hurried over to the pair demanding to know what was going on. Again, before Hot Rod could respond, Hex delivered his “version” of events.

“He came over here and started…interrogating me! Says I told him something before and he wants me to clarify what I’d said. I told him I didn’t say anything other than I knew he wasn’t in control. Now he claims I said more than that. Get him off my back, Ax! Or I swear…”

Wow. That was all that came to mind as Hot Rod stood there dumbfounded at the stream of lies Hex was continuing to spew forth. He truly was a despicable mech and it was not surprising to the cavalier at all now why such a ‘bot was chosen to be the vessel of Unicron. They really were compatible.

”Is that true?” Axle asked Hot Rod, having quieted his young ward for the moment. The cavalier didn’t know what to say at first, noticing that Hex had put his one actuator up to his mouth that seemed to indicate he wanted Hot Rod to remain silent or at the very least not tell the truth. The flame-covered Autobot thought for an astrosecond longer before he locked optics with the former doctor. His decision was made. The truth would be told.

“It’s partially true, Axle,” Hot Rod said in a defeated tone, looking to Hex before returning his full attention to the field medic. “Hex did tell me that I wasn’t in control, but he DID say more. He claimed that the Fallen wasn’t in control, either, and I then asked him what exactly he meant. I wasn’t trying to interrogate him. I was just trying to understand. Your ward here then stated that he wasn’t just a servant of evil, he was upper management, implying that he was the one pulling the Fallen’s strings the whole time. Hex can deny it all he wants. He knows he said it.”

Hot Rod paused for a brief moment to let the truth sink in, becoming more irritated with each passing astrosecond. “Of course, I think he’s full of slag. If Hex was truly in control of the Fallen then that would mean he was already Unicron, himself. The Fallen was trying to open a portal so he could free the chaos bringer but that didn't happen. Hex never became the vessel he was meant to be.” The cavalier then shifted his gaze to the young mech. “But I see now that your ward was just trying to cause trouble and get under my metal skin. Here I thought he actually cared about what I’m going through and wanted to somehow help me. Instead, he was just being his usual nasty self. How stupid was I to think otherwise.”

The flame-covered Autobot let out a deep sigh as his optics settled on the medic once more. “I’m sorry, Axle. I should’ve known better.” A visibly upset Hot Rod then turned and walked towards the exit of the med bay. As he approached the doors, the cavalier stopped and glanced back over his shoulder at the former herald. “You know, Hex, you would’ve made an excellent vessel for Unicron. You two are a match made in the Pit. Oh, and stay away from me from now on. I want nothing more to do with you.”

With those words spoken, Hot Rod looked over at Blurr, Hardhead, Clocker, Rosanna, Cliffjumper, Velocity and the rest of the small group that had gathered around him previously. “I’ll be down in the mess hall if you guys still want to have those drinks.” Saying nothing further, the cavalier left the medical bay, hoping that his real friends would soon follow.

Medical Bay Proper

“Nice to see you again, Velocity,” Hot Rod responded plainly. “I just woke up a short time ago. And, no, neither one of us has had a post-CR exam if that’s what you’re asking. But, I feel fine or at least as fine as I’m going to. In fact, we were all just about to head down to grab a drink and relax for a bit...”

“Well, just to be sure, I really should-“ Velocity began before being shoved out of the way by Hex. The smaller mech whispered something to Hot Rod that she couldn’t make out, and then darted away back to his slab. Velocity frowned at him. Something about Hex…Velocity didn’t envy Axle’s position as the younger mech’s guardian. Just as she turned back around to insist on the exam, Hot Rod dashed off after Hex.

“Oh…great,” Velocity mumbled softly.

“Give him a bit, Lotty,” Blurr commented. “He’s been through a lot.”

“I suppose you’re right.”

Blurr flashed Velocity a smiled before looking over to Hex and Hot Rod. What could they be talking about he wondered…As he was about to walk over to find out, he heard a familiar voice call out to him.

“Hey, Blurr, how you feeling, buddy? You’re looking much better than the last time I saw you.”

“Smokescreen!” Blurr replied with slightly less than his usual cheer. “You look like you’re doing better yourself. Glad to seeit. Gladto seeit.”

“So, what’s going on over there by that door? Looks like a lot of important ‘bots going in and out. Someone special inside?”

“Ha! Youcouldsaythat,” Blurr grinned, unable to keep the excitement from his voice. “In there’s none other than the illustrious Optimus Prime himself! Hot Rod saw him with his own optics. I didn’t manage to get a look though.” Blurr glanced over to the door to see that Kup and Rewind had exited. Hm. Interesting. Magnus was there too! Seemed to point to the fact that Optimus was in fact inside. Blurr was happy and so relieved.

“I’ll be down in the mess hall if you guys still want to have those drinks.”

Blurr glanced in Hot Rod’s direction as the cavalier left the medical bay looking actually visibly distressed. Oh no. Blurr glanced at Smokescreen and gave the tactician a little wave. “You two are more than welcome to come withandgetsome drinks in the messhall.”

With that, Blurr darted out of the medical bay with urgency, trying to catch up to Hot Rod. It was more difficult than it would have been if the speedster wasn’t so lightheaded, but somehow he managed it without crashing and burning. “Hey,” Blurr said as he caught up, resting a hand on Hot Rod’s shoulder both to comfort the cavalier and steady himself.

“Don’t listen to that brat, okay? Whatever he said or did. He’s not worth it,” Blurr said, offering Hot Rod a reassuring smile.

As Blurr darted out of the medical bay, Velocity let out a sigh. She’d like to go for drinks with the others, but there was so much work to be done here. The worst of it had been handled. But…Veneer was in critical condition. Yet…Hot Rod seemed pretty worse for wear. She wanted to make sure he was alright. Oh scrap it all.

Velocity moved over to Axle, tapping the medic on the shoulder lightly. “I’m going to go check on Hot Rod. Call me if you need anything, Axle,” she said before leaving the medical bay herself and making her way toward the mess hall.

Medical Bay:

Hex is a blastard. Everyone knows that. However, for him to say whatever he said to Hot Rod to make him act the way he is, that is just cruel. Hex is just as much of a spawn-of-a-glitch, if not more, than we all think. I sense it.

"Cliff?"

Cliffjumper looked back at Clocker after the orange and blue bot just asked for the red minibot's attention.

"Oh, sorry Clocker. I was just... thinking about something," said Cliffjumper simply.

"Are you coming with us to the mess hall?" asked Clocker.

Cliff replied, "Ah, yeah. Sorry. I see Blurr and Hot Rod have already made themselves vacate this room. I am concerned about Roddy."

Velocity then walked past them and left the room as well. Rosanna took notice. Odd. In a time like this, you'd think all medics would be on duty. Oh well, better not disturb myself with trivial tripe.

"I'll follow all of you," said Rosanna simply.

Funny, Hot Rod draws a lot of attention. He leaves the room, then half of the other bots in the room follow. He's almost got a Prime's touch.

Rosanna knew something was important about Hot Rod. She could just sense it. It wasn't the type of thing to where she thought he would become the next Prime or something silly, but she just knew that he was more than just a punching-bag for bots to blame for happening to be the Fallen's puppet for a day. She almost felt a connection. Like as if they dealt with something very similar. Something about trying to do the right thing but then being forced into doing something you don't want to do. She felt their situations were just as extreme, but happened in different ways.

Medical Bay--Private Quarters Exterior

"I trust you have already selected your operative, Kup?" Magnus asked. Kup scratched his cranial unit. He actually hadn't given that part of the whole deal a lot of thought yet.

"I, er, had a few ideas--Impactor. Springer. Whirl. Rack 'n Ruin. Guys like that. Too bad for me they're all elsewhere," Kup grumbled. "Actually, I was thinking of bringing the lad here along with me. Figure everything that goes on in that room should be recorded for posterity n' all that. Ratchet seems to think it wouldn't be a good idea, but I'm not sure who else I'd pick right now unless you got someone in mind, chief."

As Magnus mulled over that question, he waited a few moments before speaking and addressing Kup's earlier words.

"As long as it takes Kup, let the rumors flow as they may... But until Optimus is truly ready, truly capable of assuming the greatest burden of our people, I intend to protect him the only way we can."

Kup nodded.

"I'm not sayin' prop him up in your job and let him lead the charge against whatever whackjob 'Cons are left in this sector. I'm just sayin' they need to know he's back. We all just want what's best for him, just like he'd want what's best fer us."

Medical Bay

“Ha! Youcouldsaythat. In there’s none other than the illustrious Optimus Prime himself! Hot Rod saw him with his own optics. I didn’t manage to get a look though.”

Smokescreen’s optics widened in shock at what Blurr had just revealed. “You’re kidding?! Optimus Prime is here!? He's alive!?” The diversion expert could hardly believe what he was hearing, but it would certainly explain all of the commotion from the mechs gathered around that private room’s door, including the presence of higher-ups like Kup and even Ultra Magnus. Plus, Hot Rod had actually seen Prime and confirmed it was him. This was the best news the rallybot had heard all cycle.

“I’m speechless,” an ecstatic Smokescreen continued, glancing over at the door behind which Optimus Prime currently resided. He then turned to look at Tracer. “Can you believe it, Trace? They’ve found Optimus and he’s alive! This couldn’t have happened at a better time.”

“You two are more than welcome to come withandgetsome drinks in the messhall.”

The red and blue racer’s attention was drawn away from the troubled femme by the sound of Blurr’s vocals. “Thanks for the invite but Tracer and I need to head back over to the Ark,” Smokescreen responded with a wave of his own as the speedster quickly followed Hot Rod out of the med bay. It was kind for Blurr to invite them along, but even a mere sip of high-grade energon would likely interact with the synthetic Syk already in Tracer’s systems. Who knew what kind of adverse reaction that would have on her. It could be detrimental.

The rallybot then returned his gaze to the private room’s door. Smokey wanted to go over there and knock. He wanted to see Prime for himself. It had been a very long time since the diversion expert and the Autobot leader had spoken to each other whether it be in private or with others around. They had a history, the two of them, one that most ‘bots did not know about.

In the old days long before Smokescreen had been assigned to the Earth infiltration unit, the rallybot served as a sort of internal spy for Optimus Prime. Smokey’s friendly personality allowed for him to become close to many of his fellow Autobots. As a result, Prime saw an opportunity and requested that Smokescreen use that camaraderie to root out their deepest concerns and then report back to him in order to give Optimus an inside perspective on what his troops were actually feeling and thinking. Prime had always felt that his role as leader created a personal barrier between himself and the others which he could not overcome alone. The diversionary tactician had no problem fulfilling Prime’s request. He saw it as a way to help bring Optimus closer to the other ‘bots. Not to mention, it brought Smokescreen closer to the Autobot leader, as well.

However, those days were now long over. The rallybot missed their private conversations and never really understood why Optimus had stopped asking for those reports on his troops. Perhaps he no longer required them, having become a more confident leader over time. Or perhaps Smokescreen’s special talents were simply needed elsewhere as the war continued to escalate. The diversion expert wanted to ask what the reason was, but decided against it. Optimus did not have to explain himself and there was no need to press the issue anyway. Whatever the case, Smokey would always be there in case the Prime ever needed his assistance again.

“I wish I could talk to him even for a moment,” Smokescreen said quietly as his optics returned to Tracer’s visage. “It’s been so long since Prime and I last spoke. I just want him to know that I’m still here if he needs anything. But I doubt they’ll let me see him right now.” The rallybot cracked a smile as he continued to hold the troubled femme’s hand. “Besides, we have other things to do. Come on. Let’s get back over to the Ark.”

Leaning in, Smokescreen gave the blue scout another kiss on the cheek before then guiding her out of the med bay and into the corridor beyond.

>>Ultra Magnus, this is Hot Spot. I'm afraid this mission is going to get compromised under Prowl's command. The ranger, Nova Strike, majorly updated the wiring of the old building we are using instead of going with what was available. My concern is we are going to leave more traces of ourselves after the mission. I will continue to monitor the illogical activities but do not be surprised I will ask for Prowl to be removed and be questioned for his lack of judgment or for myself to be sent back to the Guardian to assist with whatever Jetfire has in mind.<<

Med Bay - Private Room

Jazz tossed his arms up when the good, albeit grumpy, doctor began to lay down the law in the room. Most of the mechs he pushed out with his voice alone, whereas Jazz and 'Bee were told to just sit down and stay out of his way. Worked for Jazz, the red and white medical officer always knew what was best in situations like these.

"Shared memories, eh?" The intelligence officer spoke out as he calmly say himself along one of the nearby benches bordering the room, his blue optical-visor looking up towards the lights as his processor tried to collect something a little less war-oriented. "Hmm... Oh!" The black and white Porsche snapped as he leaned a little more forward in his seat.

"Remember way back on Cybertron, cycles before the war got kicked into high gear we were investigating a report Prowl sent us of some tainted engex being distributed in the lower areas of Iacon?" He paused for a moment to see if the recollection would come to Prime. "Yeah, it was coming through the spaceport there! Everyone was jumping to conclusions, thinking Mixmaster or Oil Slick were behind the whole shebang. Ah, the name escapes me... Who was it?..." Jazz then started snapping the actuators on his left hand rapidly. "Oh this gun' bug me now..."

Med Bay Proper

Soon Hex started talking with Hot Rod, but that lead to something else the warrior must have missed entirely because now Axle came barging in to break things up. This was a lot to wake back up to...

When Hot Rod then made the notion to move the group to the mess hall, Hardhead stayed back by the berths and CR Chambers while everyone else back to step towards the door. The green and yellow warrior didn't need time to relax right now, he had to get back into the fight! No doubt that whatever truce was called before the Fallen situation was still standing. Taking note of Ultra Magnus standing outside the doorway by Kup and a few others that were pushed out from the room nearby.

"Ultra Magnus, sir." The tank-former began as he took a few steps closer and saluted the bulky Commander and Kup respectfully, "CR processes are over and I'm feeling camped up in this ship again. Need somewhere I can stretch the treads out and blast some metal. Where do you want me?"

Private Comm line form Chromedome to Rewind

>>"It better have been Prowl flipping another table. We should almost have enough footage to compile a 'Greatest Hits' mix."<<

Med Bay Proper

"Actually, I was thinking of bringing the lad here along with me. Figure everything that goes on in that room should be recorded for posterity n' all that. Ratchet seems to think it wouldn't be a good idea, but I'm not sure who else I'd pick right now unless you got someone in mind, chief."

The lad? Rewind had been listening idly to Kup and Ultra Magnus have their chat. Recording it too – it could have consequences! But his mind was more on sharing the news of Chromedome than anything else. It was only when Kup referenced him – supposedly, who else was ‘the lad’ going to be referring to – that Rewind perked up and glanced toward the old timer, listening with some more interest.

It seemed to Rewind that he might just be getting a rare opportunity at recording something. But…He had just visited Optimus. What else could there even be? Optimus was pretty big news. Hm. Rewind was mulling it over as Chromedome responded to his earlier comm.

>>"It better have been Prowl flipping another table. We should almost have enough footage to compile a 'Greatest Hits' mix."<<

>>”Well…you know how when Optimus disappeared…I was…rather upset both because, you know, he was gone, but also because I’d never get to record his war memoirs?”<< Rewind paused, intent on sort of beating around the bush, >>”That’s…not a problem anymore. He’s back, Domey! Optimus is alive!”<<

Eagerly awaiting the response from his conjunx endura, Rewind turned his attention back to Kup and Ultra Magnus, still more than a little curious about this assignment that Kup had in mind.

Med Bay – Private Room

"Shared memories, eh?"

Optimus’s blue optics followed the specialist as he moved to sit over on one of the benches bordering the room. Something seemed to strike Jazz.

"Remember way back on Cybertron, cycles before the war got kicked into high gear we were investigating a report Prowl sent us of some tainted engex being distributed in the lower areas of Iacon?"

Prime’s optics narrowed momentarily as he tried to think back that far. He hadn’t expected a memory from so long ago. Much to his relief, however, it came to him rather swiftly, his optics widening a little in recognition.

“Yes…it had been coming through a-“

"Yeah, it was coming through the spaceport there! Everyone was jumping to conclusions, thinking Mixmaster or Oil Slick were behind the whole shebang. Ah, the name escapes me... Who was it?..."

“Swindle,” Prime supplied, “It was Swindle. He was selling the tainted engex for more than full price to the vendors in lower Iacon if I recall correctly…” Optimus watched Jazz to ensure that he was, in fact, correct. “I also remember Maccadam’s being involved in that case as well…”

Medical Bay--Private Quarters Exterior

Silence spanned an ever growing gulf between the two aged friends as Magnus contemplated the advice of his long time mentor. "That is true Kup," he finally broke the pained glass with a soft tone of voice. How many times had he had this debate with himself over the last breem since learning of Prime's recovery? Twenty, thirty, a hundred times? The answers were never quite as simple as black and white absolutes might make them to be. In theory, making the grand announcement that Optimus was alive would have an immediate boosting impact to the Autobot cause. Not just through a massive jolt to morale but perhaps in productivity. But there was the downside, if Optimus failed to live up to that iconic image... Magnus shook the thought from his mind and pushed it to the furthest recesses. Optimus had garnered enough love from his troops that even if he was tarnished by injury, Magnus doubted that would affect them so adversely. Still it was a chance that he was not entirely comfortable with taking at present.

There was also the undoubted throng of well wishers that could impede his brother's convalescence. It had taken only a mere mention of his survival to a handful of trusted circle members and Prime's recovery quarters were practically inundated. It took Ratchet's every ounce of reserve not to order each of them out the nearest airlock... which was still a likely possibility. Again, perhaps too many visitors now would do far more harm than good for Optimus' recovery.

Then there was the Megatron issue. If the enemy knew outright that Optimus was alive, how long before they would come to the conclusion that their own master was still functional? Again the argument was pitted against possibilities that had equal chances of taking place. The cons were as loyal to their tyrant king as the Autobots were to Optimus Prime, and they would stop at nothing to reclaim what was theirs. Even Razorclaw's tenuous hold on power would be for not under that overwhelming pressure from the minions under him. "Be that as it may," he resumed. "We cannot overburden Optimus just yet. Rumors are beginning to spread, some in part to Swerve's loose vocorder. And as long as they remain unsubstantiated, we can allow Optimus time to recover and time for us to secure our... guest."

"Speaking of which, I would have thought Bumblebee would be up for the task... however," He glanced around the bend to catch the golden shoulder brace of the small horned spy. "I think I am inclined to agree with the good doctor. His place is better served in aiding Optimus' recovery. Unfortunately, I have lost contact with Ironhide as well. Personally he would have been my next option with regards to this particular project."

Ultra Magnus rubbed his chin absently. The thought of Rewind being used to debrief Megatron had not been at the forefront of his list of potential options... in fact it was probably far from the top as one could possibly get. Still there were benefits to having one along who was, for lack of a better description, unassuming. "Alright Kup, I trust your judgement in this regard. But make sure you explain and help enforce the appropriate security measures and regulations for this project. Meaning no one beyond the ring that already knows, is to be included without my expressed consent." He glanced down at the archivist and remained almost expressionless. The stern nature of his vestige was apparent as well as how critical secrecy would be in the times to come. Without wasting another word he looked back to Kup. "Good luck with your assignments. The Ark will be decoupling within the breem and I expect everything to be properly secured on board. And I expect an excruciatingly detailed series of reports from you Rewind."

"Dismissed Kup, Rewind... and good luck." Magnus pivoted towards the lift again only to look back. "Also, deliver my sympathies to Grapple. I've been informed of the recent reassignment. Being paired with Huffer and Bluestreak may very well test the patience of our most skilled architect." Magnus walked away leaving Kup and Rewind to prepare for their most trying operation in nearly a vorn.

As he turned the corner away from Optimus Prime's quarters and made his way towards the lift that would take him directly to the bridge of the Guardian, where he would assume command for the duration of transport of the corrupted spark to the heart of Sol's fiery embrace, the lift doors opened to reveal a familiar military green form. "Hardhead?" He spoke the name with equal parts surprise, sympathy and relief. The last time he had stolen a chance to look in on the warrior was while he was on his way to check in on the currently senile Megatron. "It is good to see you are up and about... and that your previous experiences have left you only a little worse for ware."

The Autobot Commander stepped forward and placed both hands on the green tank former's shoulders and gave firm squeezes as signs of support and respect. It was almost impossible for anyone to truly understand what sort of personal hell he, Hex or Hot Rod had gone through during their ordeal. In fact, Magnus was willing to say that it was very much impossible.

"I've heard from the recent medical reports that you've been cleared, but I am surprised you are up and about so soon after such a traumatic..." His voice paused in his vocorder as he stepped back from the warrior. He released his grip and established a respectful distance. While he had never been truly close to the tank former, he had served with him on a few occasions. The memories on the absolute toughness and grit that defined Hardhead immediately came to the fore. "You want an assignment already don't you, in order to take your mind off of what has transpired?"

Ultra Magnus paused and thought for a moment. "The best therapy for the battle hardened veteran? Very well, as so happens, irregardless of my personal opinions... There is currently an operation underway." Quietly he jotted down the transport coordinates and a brief summary of the operation under the Dinobot Commander's direct command. "I am sure they are already underway, rearm yourself appropriately for underwater combat and head to North Korea. Its time to purge that area of con influence... good luck Hardhead, good luck and good hunting."

With that he allowed the energized warrior to continue along his path to the armory, Magnus stepped onto the lift car. The door barely secured behind him when a communique prompted his attention. "Bridge," he called out to the overhead receiver as he spun around to face the doors to the lift car.

Gravity shifted almost imperceptibly as the car lifted towards its destination. As it traveled, Magnus opened the communique from Hot Spot. Immediately he had to still his hand from raising up and slapping the top of his forehead. The mission had not been underway for more than three breems and already there was more friction than he needed. Magnus was tempted to send a response illustrating his disapproval of the situation that was unfolding on Earth.

Still, he required himself to maintain proper distance and see the situation objectively. Thus his response was short and to the point. He opened a channel to both Prowl and Hot Spot, ensuring that both received his words of wisdom. "Hot Spot, Prowl, I appreciate the current situation and differences in command styles... hence why you two were selected as the leadership team for this operation. Your team has been assembled based on the best chances to achieve optimal success. In that vein, I recommend you learn to adapt to each other's strengths and complement them while mitigating weaknesses if you are to succeed in obtaining the required items. Keep me posted on actual events pertaining to the operation at hand, Guardian will be out of transport and communications range in the interim... Magnus Out."

Once the transmission was constructed and submitted for transmission, Magnus deactivated his communications link as the door to the lift settled at the bridge. He stepped out of the car and stopped at the edge of the elevated dais that lead to the command chair. "Helm, prepare final navigational checks... course is outside of this solar system's stellar corona. Engineering begin final release of docking clamps of the Trion on my command." The bridge crew acknowledged his commands as Magnus made his way to the command deck and took a seat in the captain's chair. Now was the time to get this hell underway and finally close this dark chapter in Cybertronian Mythology forever more.

Medical Bay--Private Quarters Exterior

"Be that as it may, we cannot overburden Optimus just yet. Rumors are beginning to spread, some in part to Swerve's loose vocorder. And as long as they remain unsubstantiated, we can allow Optimus time to recover and time for us to secure our... guest."

Kup nodded and took a reflective drag from his cygar. He'd said his piece about the matter and he wasn't going go any further with the matter. Optimus Prime was a big boy and if he felt like he was being coddled too much, he'd eventually lay down the law and put everyone in their place. Such was the burden of the role he'd taken on when he'd accepted the responsibility of the Matrix.

"Speaking of which, I would have thought Bumblebee would be up for the task... however, I think I am inclined to agree with the good doctor. His place is better served in aiding Optimus' recovery. Unfortunately, I have lost contact with Ironhide as well. Personally he would have been my next option with regards to this particular project."

Ironhide. Yeah. Truth be told, ol' Hide would've been his number one pick to be at his side during Megatron's little interrogation session. The fact that Ultra Magnus had lost contact with the hardened old warrior was unsurprising. He and Ironhide both had a tendency to do what they thought was best, regardless of what Autobot Command thought about it, from time to time. He was sure the red mech would check in when he was good and ready.

"Alright Kup, I trust your judgement in this regard. But make sure you explain and help enforce the appropriate security measures and regulations for this project. Meaning no one beyond the ring that already knows, is to be included without my expressed consent. Good luck with your assignments. The Ark will be decoupling within the breem and I expect everything to be properly secured on board. And I expect an excruciatingly detailed series of reports from you Rewind. Dismissed Kup, Rewind... and good luck."

"Roger that. Not a word," Kup said, offering his superior officer a good-natured salute as Magnus went off to tend to other business.

"Also, deliver my sympathies to Grapple. I've been informed of the recent reassignment. Being paired with Huffer and Bluestreak may very well test the patience of our most skilled architect," Magnus added as he was leaving.

"And Swerve, heh," Kup joked. "Don't worry about it. If anyone can focus on the task at hand in the midst of all that yap, it's Grapple."

With another drag from the cygar, Kup let the positive and negative ions filter through his systems. They definitely felt good right about now. Fortunately, their next assignment was not very far away from this one. One secured bay over, in fact.

"Alright lad," Kup began, bringing up the necessary information regarding Megatron's current incarceration and the notes regarding what had been observed of his behavior thus far. He handed the datapad down to Rewind. "This is our other 'guest', and you can see why Magnus is intent on keeping it quiet. Come with me."

Kup entered the security code for the adjacent set of doors where they could talk in private before going through the last set of secured doors that would ultimately grant them access to the Decepticon tyrant.

Medical Bay – Private Quarters Exterior

After a few more exchanges between Kup and Ultra Magnus that didn’t glean anything particularly new, Rewind tilted his head quizzically at the pair. Magnus eventually left, wishing Rewind and Kup luck. Rewind narrowed his visor slightly and glanced up to Kup as the old timer turned his attention back onto the diminutive archivist.

He took the datapad when it was handled to him, skimming the information therein with increasingly widening optics. Oh. Yes, Rewind could suddenly understand the need for secrecy. And suddenly felt a good deal more apprehensive. What had he just been signed on for? Trotting after Kup with a certain unease in his step, he hastily looked through the rest of the data. It seemed like Megatron had been acting…rather strangely.

Rewind stopped beside Kup as the old timer opened a set of doors, behind which, to Rewind’s immediate relief, Megatron was not. He stepped through, looking up at Kup with a worried expression as the doors closed behind him. “Ah, Kup…” Rewind glanced around searching for the words. “Not that…Well…What…exactly do you want me to do here?”

Medical Bay--Secure Medical Bay Exterior

The current medical bay looked almost like an armory. Every security protocol in the book had been unloaded, with multiple weapons trained upon the locked doors that now stood in front of Kup and Rewind, and even more waiting once they bypassed them. Before they did that, though, Kup wanted to make sure his choice of company was up for the task at hand. He wouldn't blame him in the least if he wasn't.

“Ah, Kup…Not that…Well…What…exactly do you want me to do here?”

Another drag of the cygar. Another moment to think and choose his words carefully.

"Well lad...we don't get opportunities like this very often. Magnus wants me to go in there and try to make some kinda sense of the garble that Megatron's spewin' out. Maybe I can, maybe not. Either way, I figure it's probably a good idea t'have a definitive record of everything that goes on in there. Moreover, he ain't gonna look at either one of us as a threat, quite frankly, so who knows, maybe that'll give us somethin' that it wouldn't give Prime or Grimlock or Ultra Magnus."

Medical Bay – Secure Medical Bay Exterior

"Well lad...we don't get opportunities like this very often. Magnus wants me to go in there and try to make some kinda sense of the garble that Megatron's spewin' out. Maybe I can, maybe not. Either way, I figure it's probably a good idea t'have a definitive record of everything that goes on in there. Moreover, he ain't gonna look at either one of us as a threat, quite frankly, so who knows, maybe that'll give us somethin' that it wouldn't give Prime or Grimlock or Ultra Magnus."

Rewind considered it for a moment. They certainly did not get opportunities like this often. Megatron? In their custody? This was a once in a lifetime opportunity. Rewind very likely wouldn’t get another like it. And what archivist worth his oil would pass up an opportunity like this? Really. Oh, Domey would kill him if he found out later.

“Alright,” he said, nodding his head with newfound determination. “Let’s do this.”

Medical Bay-–Secure Medical Bay Exterior

Kup waited for a few astroseconds for Rewind to absorb the significance of what he'd said, all the while sizing up his body language as well as his words. Rewind wasn't exactly a frontline mech. It would be different for him to deal firsthand with a mech that had slaughtered so many of your compatriots over the vorns than it would be for, say, Springer or Ironhide.

“Alright. Let’s do this,” Rewind said. Kup nodded and approached the security console, entering the codes that had been provided on the datapad that Magnus had given him before. In short order, the codes were accepted and the door slid open. Kup motioned for Rewind to let him take the lead and proceeded to walk into the room, immediately sizing up everything he was dealing with: for all the security that was present outside the room, inside it was effectively doubled. Turrets had been deployed. They clearly had no intention of making the Slagmaker feel "comfortable". Good.

When Kup entered, he expected Megatron's infamously steely gaze to be focused directly on him. It wasn't. Instead the silvery mech was staring absently at the ceiling, seemingly paying attention to nothing at all. He wasn't alone, either. No surprise at all, Ratchet was obviously dealing with Prime. But clearly Magnus was going to cover some protocol or another and offer Megatron a minimum of care while being a prisoner. Pharma was the one given that fragtastic task. Kup didn't envy him.

"Well, doc, seems we got orders to transfer our 'guest' here to the Ark-22. He ready?" he said, before turning his attention to Megatron directly. "Never thought I'd see the day. A pile of slag on the battlefield, sure. But captured? Nah. I can't believe it."