No Rhyme or Reason
Chapter 1
Disclaimer: I don't own Transformers. They belong to Hasbro and Takara. I am merely taking them for a short spin.
"Fractious" was an apt description for the new arrivals to Autobot City. Not all of them, but it applied in varying degrees to the three youngest members of Ultra Magnus' unit. However, Prowl thought, it perfectly described the triple changer, Springer, and his best friend Hot Rod and in certain situations, the femme, Arcee. Blurr was respectful but could carry on a one-sided conversation better than Bluestreak and Sandstorm kept his head down and did his job. Kup was in a class by himself (always had been) and Ultra Magnus. . .Prowl had yet to find evidence of his character flaws.
The Autobot second in command was certain he was going to become well acquainted in the coming days with Springer and Hot Rod. They'd already been in his office seven times for disciplinary action in the month since their arrival to Earth. No doubt they were capable warriors, but they still had a lot to learn. And he was going to have to get creative with his current round of discipline. The two fraggers were late for yet another discussion about their juvenile behavior, stemming from their mutual attraction to Arcee. Most of the base was falling at her feet, but Prowl was sure her affections were centered elsewhere. He'd calculated the odds, and knew he was right. The mech just wasn't aware of it yet.
His thoughts were interrupted by the door chime. He settled his gaze on the two mechs who entered. Well, entered wasn't the right word. Hot Rod dragged Springer inside.
"Glad you two finally showed up," Prowl said. "Do I need to remind you of what you've done this time, or can we just skip to the part where I try once again to correct your behavior?"
Springer frowned, bit back a retort, while Hot Rod fought a grin.
"I don't know why Ultra Magnus let you get away with such antics, but here on Earth, under the command of Optimus Prime, such behavior is not allowed," Prowl said.
"Wanna bet?" Springer said. "I saw the twins walking out of the armory this morning with grenades and paint markers. Just walking. Not sneaking. So yeah, I'd say the Autobots here are the epitome of law-abiding."
Prowl ignored the comment.
"I think more drastic measures are called for this time," he said. "As of right now, your current duty assignments are suspended until further notice. Since the two of you seem to accomplish nothing when you're together, I'm separating you. Starting tomorrow, Springer, you will be assigned to the night shift and Hot Rod, day shift. Report to me for your duty assignments. Dismissed."
Once outside, Springer couldn't hold back anymore.
"Crazy slagger. All rules and regulations and protocol. . .the humans have a word to describe someone like him--'prick.' He's probably got a stick jammed so far up his aft it'll never see the light of day again," Springer said.
"Yeah, but he's the second in command," Hot Rod said.
"If you say something about respect, I'll punch you," Springer said. "And what's with you lately, anyway, you've actually been trying to follow orders. That's a change. Any reason why?"
"No," Hot Rod said, suddenly nonchalant.
Springer's optics narrowed.
"C'mon Rodi, you holding out on me?"
"Holding out what? I'm just trying to do my job," Hot Rod said.
"Think that'll impress Arcee?" Springer said.
"Maybe," Hot Rod said. "But now that we're here, in the middle of the fighting again, there's more to think about than just ourselves."
Springer crossed his arms, annoyed now.
"I get it--you're buying into Prime's bullshit, right? Well if he's do damn great, why hasn't he ended the war yet? He's in charge. Maybe now that we're here, and Magnus holds some influence, things might get done for a change," Springer said.
"Whatever," Hot Rod said. "C'mon. Prowl didn't say anything about finishing our duty shifts today. Race you to the top of Lookout Mountain."
"You're on," Springer grinned, transforming, following his friend.
