WARNING! THIS CHAPTER HAS REFERENCES TO PAST RAPE AND A LITTLE MECH ON MECH LOVE. DO NOT READ IF THIS OFFENDS YOU! YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!
Home Sweet Home
The trip to the planet Earth felt shorter than the trip back home but Ultra Magnus was relieved to see his precious home world at long last. Surrounded by the darkness of the universe it truly did look like a glowing gem of beauty and awe! The great jewel of their galaxy that drifted across the void of space and glittered like a deep sea of stars. A great planet where its sentient robot life forms dwelled peacefully and happily. Cybertron, home to the Autobots, the pride of the Cybertronian race.
He was thankful that they weren't attacked by drifting Decepticons on the way back and now that they were in Cybertronian Space, they were completely safe from their threat. They would be even safer when they landed but the elder mech knew that now there was nothing to fear. The sailed past the planetary defensive system and were already receiving Comms on their landing procedure. He also learnt that they would be expecting a reception, which the Magnus wasn't looking forward to. It was a tradition that every time he returned from a long trip, the Elite Guard would have to pay him a welcoming back tribute. It was a pain in the aft but it was a tradition he had to do. He just hoped it wouldn't faze Optimus.
Jazz guided the Steelhaven down onto the planet whilst Optimus Prime sat on a nearby chair, a small look of happiness on his fair face now that he saw he was home.
Ultra Magnus looked over at him, happy that he at least made the effort to come out of his dark cabin and sit down with them on the bridge, now able to watch as they landed the great Elite Guard ship back on their home world. The young Prime was still a little uneasy about being around the elder mech in fear he might do something stupid but he did want to watch as they landed back on their planet. It had felt like an eternity since he last saw it.
'You are to land at docking bay 081, at Docking Station Alpha! The probes will be up in a click to guide you down!'
'Acknowledge!' answered Jazz, listening to the Flight Coordinator's instructions.
The Cyber ninja looked up to the Commander with a confident expression.
'We'll be landing in about 2 clicks! Thanks for flying with Jazz Space Lines; we hope you enjoyed your flight!'
Ultra Magus rolled his optics in an amused way. It was nice to see that Jazz was acting like he usually did but he still sounded like he was trying to force the emotions on. He could only hope that the leave he would take after they dock would help him get back to normal.
As they got closer and closer, Optimus peered out the window. He could see the great cities of the great planet that was his home. It looked how Sari would describe it, like a toy city for everything looked so tiny. He could see ships flying above the surface, Cybertronians in their vehicle modes driving around and great lights of the cities glowing like stars. The towers of course still looked like giants, even where he was right now.
Cybertron was truly beautiful and Optimus did admit that he had missed it very much.
'Enjoying the view, Optimus?' asked Ultra Magnus.
'Oh, yes sir! I am,' replied the young mech, trying to be polite.
Well at least he was talking.
With the Docking bay in sight and Jazz listening to the instructions given to him, they made their way to Docking Bay Alpha, where already they could see the reception they were expecting. Elite Guard cadets lined up along red mesh flooring with their polished armour and weapons at the ready, a small media crowd gathered to get the latest buzz on the Magnus's journey and a few members of the High Council to greet them. Hopefully Optimus wouldn't mind this. He peered over at the young mech who did look a little anxious but said nothing.
'It won't take long Optimus. As soon as we've finished we'll head over to my estate where-...'
He was cut off when the ship suddenly engaged in its landing procedure. The sirens blared loudly and the Magnus began to input the codes and push the right buttons to make sure his beloved ship would land safe and well. The loud humming and the hissing as the ship's landing pads dropped down, the thrusters lowering them down safely and the engines powering down was music to his audios. Outside, landing 'bots signalled to them with landing lights, directing them where to land as the Steelhaven finally touched down.
The moment it did, the welcoming committee outside began to cheer, welcoming their Magnus home!
Ultra Magnus sighed as he rose, patting the arm of his chair, as if to thank his ship for getting them where they needed to go. Outside, the Docking 'bots were already plugging her with fuel lines and cables to update and repair her worn out systems. The Steelhaven powered down and Jazz stood up at long last, stretching his limbs.
'Home sweet home!' he cheered.
Optimus slowly rose from his seat, taking in a deep huff of air. He was nervous as slag to be home and to walk out into that welcoming reception, meant for the Magnus of course not for him. He hadn't been round this many Autobots in stellar cycles! Ultra Magnus gave him a pat on the shoulder as he walked past.
'Let's get this over with then,' said the Magnus in a somewhat amusing tone.
Truthfully he just wanted to go straight to his estate but they have to get through this bore fest first! The three of them followed the Autobot Commander, heading towards the ships exit. Already it was beginning to open and the cheering of the crowds was getting louder and louder. The Magnus peeped over his shoulder to see that Optimus was nervous and seemed to be dragging his pedes.
'It's alright Optimus, just stay behind me. It's me they're interested in!'
Optimus nodded and followed, Jazz not taking any interest just wanted to go on his leave and forget that the whole trip had ever happened! In fact he didn't even hear what they were saying for he was lost in his own world.
Walking out of the ship they were greeted by loud cheers and cries of joy from the citizens of Cybertron. The Elite Guard cadets raised the weapons to welcome their Commander home, the media 'bots reported everything they saw, the civilians cheered and celebrated to see their saviour come home and the members of the High Council approached them, wanting to welcome their defender home.
Ultra Magnus sighed and waved to them as he descended down from the ship, the two other 'bots following. They halted at the edge of the ramp as the council members walked up to them. The young Prime stood behind Ultra Magnus, not wanting to be noticed whilst the Autobot Commander greeted them. Thankfully his smaller frame went un-noticed since he stood behind the bigger frame of the Magnus. To be safe he stood to attention and tried to be respectably towards the members of the high council. Jazz saluted, as part of his job and the High Council members bowed their heads in respect.
'It is good to see you again, great Magnus! We hope that the journey to recover our ancient relic wasn't too troublesome?'
Ultra Magnus bowed his head in respect and ushered them to walk with him, back into the compound of the Docking station where no one would disturb them. They walked past the Elite Guard cadets who didn't say a word. The crowds continued to cheer and wave and some media drones flew above them, to get some good pictures and decent footage of the Magnus. Ultra Magnus tried to walk quicker. He didn't like the idea of Optimus being around this crowd. The young Prime kept his head down and followed silently as they spoke to one another and hoped he wouldn't draw attention to himself.
'Well if you had seen the report I sent a few sols ago, you would have a good idea what has happened. I am sorry to have disappoint you all but fear not. A group of fine Autobots have started to restore it to its former glory and bring it home where it will be safe.'
'Ah yes, we were upset to hear about that. Still if you say you have faith in that group of Autobots on that organic world than we have no real concern. Hopefully they will return with our most sacred relic!'
At least they didn't have anything against his Autobots back on Earth, which made Optimus a little pleased that the council didn't lack any faith in them nor speak ill of them.
'Speaking of those Autobots...'
Some of the council members peered over Ultra Magnus to get a look at the Autobot he brought back instead of Sentinel Prime. Optimus looked back, trying to remain calm and composed. They raised their optic brows at him and muttered among themselves.
'We take it that this was their leader?'
Optimus cringed when they mentioned him but tried to remain unfazed. Ultra Magnus followed their gaze, peering over at Optimus before returning his attention the council members.
'Yes, this is Optimus Prime. I'm sure you've read the report Medical Officer Ratchet had written?'
The council members nodded, none of them looking impressed.
'Yes, mental illness due to exposure on an Organic planet. Pity it seems that not only is he a disgrace to the Autobots but he can't even handle the atmosphere of an alien world?'
Optimus bit his lip as a wave of guilt and shame hit him like a tsunami. Ultra Magnus took a deep breath after hearing such an insult, restraining himself from snarling down at the council members. Instead he answered back with a firm and almost demanding tone.
'Believe me when I say this but Optimus Prime has proven himself to be a capable leader. Not only did he locate the AllSpark he also defended it from the very race we banished from our home world! Yes, he has made mistakes in the past and I'm sure once he recovers he will continue to lead his team against the Decepticon threat and redeem himself!'
The council members frowned upon hearing this. Most of them had been asking Ultra Magnus over the Comm where Sentinel was and why he was returning with an Academy Washout instead! The Magnus ignored their petty whines and continued on. As they approached the entrance of the compound, one of them spoke out to the Magnus.
'All well and said Ultra Magnus...but...'
They paused for a moment.
'We have heard that you have..."volunteered" to care for him during his treatment? Also that he will be staying with you? In your own estate?'
Ultra Magnus stared at them with a deep look as if he didn't really care what they were implying.
'And?'
The council members still looked a little upset.
'I'm sure we can accommodate him in the special ward of a medical centre of your choice! He will be looked after by proper experts on the matter! We wouldn't want him distracting you from your-..'
'Enough! I have taken the liberty to care for one of my own Autobots. He has served me well and I believe that I myself am to repay the debt! This is my choice and my choice alone!'
That seemed to have annoyed the council members and even anger them but they restrained themselves. They clearly didn't want this washout to be anywhere near their beloved Magnus! One however was still upset about the whole thing and didn't want to take no for an answer.
'But he isn't even an Elite Guard! We can't have him-...'
'Council mech Braxis, if the Magnus wishes to care for him, who are we to say he can't?'
Everyone looked up to see the wise Alpha Trion, waiting for them within the Compound with Wheeljack standing close by. Ultra Magnus silently thanked Primus, if there was one council member he could count on it was the old and wise Alpha Trion. This Autobot was even older than him and was full of wisdom and knowledge. Everyone respected him, others feared him. He may be ancient but he was a force to be reckoned with.
The other council members stilled their glossas, knowing it was unwise to go against Alpha Trion. Now that they were out of veiw from the prying optics of the media, they could relax a little but they still did not dare to question the great old Autobot. Optimus still felt a little awkward around these council mechs and stuck close to Ultra Magnus, in fear they might have him dragged away when the Commander wasn't looking.
Alpha Trion walked over, smiling a little as he approached the Magnus.
'It is good to see you again Ultra Magnus. I have heard many things from the reports you sent to us. Some was good...most was bad. But the important thing is that you are now home.'
Ultra Magnus shook his hand with a warm smile on his white face.
'I am pleased to see you again, old friend. Hopefully when I have settled in we will be able to catch up. For now I need some rest and I believe Jazz has some leave to apply for.'
That was his signal to the ninja 'bot to say he could now go. Jazz saluted.
'Thank you sir! I will send my report to your desk before I leave!'
And with that Jazz took off, without even looking back. He clearly wanted to get out of there with all that awkward tension in the air. Optimus felt a little uneasy now that it was just him, Ultra Magnus and a few mechs who didn't appear to like him too well. Ultra Magnus sensed it and wanted to get out of there quick until Wheeljack approached him.
'Forgive me Ultra Magnus, sir! I tried to contact you on your ship but you were already docking! Perceptor has received your request and wants to see you ASAP! He can only spare today as he is, regrettably, on a tight schedule.'
Frag! They had to go now. When it came to Perceptor, getting any personal time with him was like waiting for eternity!
'Excuse us now council members but I have an appointment with my personal medic. Optimus Prime, come along now please. Thank you for the welcoming reception and I will debrief with you all later!'
Grabbing Optimus by the arm, he gently tugged him, taking him along as they followed Wheeljack and away from the other mechs. It was rather awkward and brief but Ultra Magnus had no time and he knew that the council members (who also knew what Perceptor was like) would understand. Optimus glanced over his shoulder to see that the council members were practically glaring at him, their optics full of spite.
Did they hate him or something? Probably, what with his record. To have him return and not Sentinel must of angered them greatly.
Ultra Magnus pulled him along until they reached the shuttle that would take them directly to the Research Centre where Perceptor was waiting for them. The three 'bots climbed on board and as soon as the doors shut and the shuttle sped off, the elder mech sighed with relief and sat down.
'Primus above, if they weren't council members, they'd be rust piles!'
He slumped into his chair and huffed angrily. If there was one thing he hated aside from parties, Decepticons and fools, it was council mechs who think they knew what was best for him! Wheeljack chuckled, his head fins glowing with amusement.
'You know what they're like, sir. Always thinking for you, never with you!'
'They should mind their own business when it comes to my personal life! Of all the inappropriate things to say, they had to-...'
Ultra Magnus winced, forgetting Optimus was still there. The young Prime sat there across from him with his head down. It was painfully obvious that what had happened not too long ago upsetted him.
'Optimus, I'm sorry you had to go through that! Those dam council mechs only think for themselves! Don't believe a word they say, it's all toxic and slag!'
The young Prime said nothing but raised his head, looking a little embarrassed. His engines suddenly rumbled and he blushed.
'I...I'm hungry,' he squeaked.
The Autobot Commander blinked before chuckling.
'Wheeljack, is there any Energon dispensers on this shuttle?'
'Just one! I'll get you both some!'
As the Scientist left to get some beverages, Optimus peered out the window to watch the great cities rush by. Already the Docking station was long gone and they were zooming past airfields and giant Comm towers. Autobots rushing about and ships taking off into orbit. Mechs and femmes rushing about with equipment and supplies. All of Cybertron seemed to be functioning well, not even noticing that the young Prime had returned at long last.
'I guess Cybertron didn't miss me at all,' he sighed heavily.
Ultra Magnus frowned. He leaned forward and gently patted the young Prime on the helm.
'Cybertron may not have but I did.'
It was nice, comforting a little to know that at least someone did care, but Optimus still felt like an outcast on the very world he was born on.
Standing outside the Science and Research HQ of Cybertron made the young Prime stare up in awe and wonder. He knew he was here for a serious reason but he could not help but look at this amazing place! It was a gigantic building that one could easily see from orbit, housing possibly thousands of scientists, engineers and medics, all of them working on new cures, new technology and just about anything their creative minds could come up with! It wasn't open to the public so Optimus had never been inside but he had heard wonderful stories about the place!
It had so many levels that some believed it went straight down to the core of the planet and was practically home to the greatest mind of all Cybertron and the universe even, Perceptor. The Autobot who created the ultimate weapon to end the Great War with the Decepticons, the one who created a cure for the dreaded Cosmic Rust and had a processor filled endless knowledge and information. He was also the personal medic of the Magnus since he contained quite a bit of medical knowledge!
Although he wouldn't mind standing outside and marvel at the spectacular building, he had to hurry and follow Ultra Magnus and Wheeljack into the building for this Perceptor wouldn't wait for anyone, not even the Magnus. Getting past the security went fine though they did give the young Prime questioning looks surprised that a lower rank Prime was walking alongside the great Autobot Commander. Ignoring them Optimus tried to keep up with the other two mechs who rushed through the lobby and into a long corridor.
'You'll have to forgive Perceptor, sir! He's been working on a new formula to create an Energon beverage that would be cheap to produce yet also provide our bodies with the fuel we need to get through the sol!'
'That doesn't surprise me, he loves his work more than...well...he doesn't really love anything else!'
'Sad but true!'
Upon reaching the end of the corridor Optimus's optics widened as they entered a chamber so large that the Steelhaven and the Ark could fly through it without fear of crashing into something! It was huge, so huge he thought that he was in the very core of Cybertron and within the centre; the young Prime was able to look down and see all the other floors of the great building! Peering down at the lower levels, Optimus almost got dizzy as the many floors of the Science and Research centre reached down for mega-miles!
He could see other scientists and engineers walking about on every level, carrying tools or chemicals, talking to each other about their theories and some even sleeping at their desks out of sheer exhaustion from all their hard work. It was an amazing site that Optimus had almost forgotten why he was there.
Ultra Magnus called out to him and the young Prime looked up to see the elder mech waiting by what looked like a viewing platform or some sort of waiting area with mesh chairs and decorations. Optimus walked over and sat down, peering over the edge as he did. Wheeljack stood back and, even though his face wasn't fully visible, he seemed to be grinning.
'Tell Perceptor I said hello! And enjoy the ride!'
Optimus sat up upon hearing that.
'Ride?'
Before he could even get an answer, railings suddenly popped up right in front of the Engineer. A sudden vibration made the young Prime yelp and before he could even realize what was going on, he found that they were now moving down, the floor they were originally on was now gone and soon they were passing by other levels.
It didn't take him long to realize that what he thought was a viewing platform was actually an elevator of sorts, designed to look like it was part of the floor and was furnished with comfy mesh chairs. It was lowering them down to the floor they needed to get to. Ultra Magnus smirked as he took a seat next to Optimus.
'Wheeljack sure does love it when someone gets surprised by one of his inventions,' he chuckled.
Optimus looked up at the elder mech with his amused expression and smiled a little, finding it a little funny. Ultra Magnus was pleased; he couldn't even remember when Optimus last smiled. However what was to come was going to be difficult for both him and the Autobot Commander.
Now that they were going to see Perceptor at long last...Optimus was going to have to 'explain' to the Scientist what exactly happened. In order for Perceptor to understand what they might be in for, he might request every gruelling detail about the horrid event. Something that was going to be very hard for the young Prime, who was already anxious that two Autobots knew about his horrific ordeal.
He did explain to Optimus on the voyage back that he might need to do this with Perceptor and the poor young mech began to freak out, not wanting anyone else to know what had happened to him. Ultra Magnus allowed him to calm down before he calmly convinced Optimus that he had to do this, for his own health along with the little one growing inside of him. He promised he would be there during the whole thing and that seemed to make the young mech feel a tad bit better.
Looking down at him he could see he was nervous. Scared even. He gently placed a hand onto on his blue helm and patted him.
'You'll be alright, Optimus. Perceptor will know what to do.'
Optimus said nothing but nodded. His Sparked pulsed even faster the lower they went. He wasn't sure if he would be able to tell the Scientist...everything...but he knew he had to. As far as Ultra Magnus and anyone else knew, there had never been a report of an Autobot bearing a Decepticon Sparkling and vice versa, technically making him the first Autobot, ever, to bear one! They had no idea how it would affect him or if it might offline him. This was why he had to be brave and tell Perceptor what he could.
'Do you think...he can help?' asked Optimus, his nerves on edge.
'I believe that he will! Perceptor has the greatest mind in all of Cybertron! I know he will be able to take care of you!'
Hopefully...he will.
They continued to fall until at last the platform stopped and the railings vanished. The two 'bots stood up and walked onto a floor that seemed to be quiet compared to the others they passed. A few scientists walked about or sat at terminals, quietly talking about chemicals and formulas or whatever research they were working on. Ultra Magnus walked further in until at last he spotted the 'bot he was looking for!
He was sitting at a desk, looking down his microscope with another Scientist beside him. Possibly looking at how his new Energon formula was coming along and, since the Magnus had known him for a while; he appeared somewhat pleased with what he was looking at. Calm, stoic and not even looking up as the Magnus approached him. The other Scientist nearby uttered a quiet gasp and stepped back to give them room yet still Perceptor did not look up.
Optimus looked at him surprised optics. He had never seen the great Perceptor up close before. Tall red, black and light green armour. Yellow specs over his calm blue optics and a very large helm that must of contained giga bytes of room for information! He had heard that he even removed his emotional circuitry just to make more room for knowledge! Something that not even Optimus could dream of doing! Did he truly love Science that much that he would give up the feelings of happiness and sadness?
The Magnus coughed loudly to get the Scientists attention.
'Perceptor? Sorry I'm late but-...'
'You are 13.7 clicks late and I have no time to speak with you unless it is urgent! Come back in an orbital cycle, I'll send another medic to attend to your check up!'
Primus, most 'bots would face severe charges after speaking to the Magnus like that! Then again this was the great Perceptor and he was Ultra Magnus's personal medic. Well he didn't really sound angry nor annoyed. He sounded very...computer like and it was a tad bit creepy.
'It is urgent Perceptor! It's very important! It cannot wait! I need to talk to you about a...sensitive matter,' begged the Magnus.
Perceptor uttered a strange groan before he sat up at long last and looked up at him with emotionless optics, almost as if he wasn't interested in what the Autobot Commander had to say! He then looked over at Optimus, seemly confused that there was a low ranked Autobot behind the Magnus.
'Who is that?' he asked.
Ultra Magnus sighed and leaned down, whispering into Perceptor's audios.
'The reason we're here!'
The Scientist frowned...or as close he could to a frown and looked back at Optimus. Optimus looked back and stood still, feeling a little nervous with the way the emotionless mech was looking at him. Almost as if he saw him as a test subject.
'What is wrong with him? He appears to be functioning at normal levels to me! If he is sick send him to a local medic.'
'We cannot discuss this in the open!'
'I do not have time for this. I'm in a crucial point in my research!'
Perceptor then looked back down into his microscope, ignoring the Magnus and the Prime, as if they were never there to begin with. The young Prime sighed in disappointment whilst Ultra Magnus sighed but then opened his sub-space, pulling out a little box. Optimus looked at it, wondering what is what as the elder mech waved it around Perceptor's head.
'That's a shame...and I brought you new organic samples from that new alien world we-...'
He barely had enough time to finish his sentence when Perceptor suddenly and almost instantly whirled round in his chair and locked his optics onto the box, a very small hint of curiosity in his optics.
'New samples?' he asked, his fingers slowly moving about in a cool excitement.
Ultra Magnus nodded. Back on Earth he and Jazz picked up anything he could find that would interest Perceptor. There were small plants, data on the human creatures, some oil that the Autobots had been drinking on Earth, air samples and even dirt samples. Whatever it was in the little tubes he knew that the Scientist would be very interested in it! Any knowledge of any kind was pure joy for the Scientist; to him it was like a box of Cyber-Bytes. He was going to give it to him as a gift but now he was a little ashamed to use it as a means of blackmail. It was working though; Perceptor looked at the box with hungry optics.
'I have heard the reports of the organic world in question. It has been an interest of mine of late.'
'All I ask is a cycle of your time...in a sealed room for Protocol Alpha!'
Perceptor looked up at him upon hearing then but then sighed in defeat. He looked over at his assistant.
'Very well. You! Continue with this research and I expect results when I return!'
He stood up and motioned the two 'bots to follow him, the assistant taking over his work without question. They walked through the lab quickly and into what must of been Perceptor's private office. It wasn't decorated with fancy furniture but rather very plain furniture and was filled with tools, workstations and even some examination tables. Then again, a 'bot like Perceptor, it wouldn't surprise him. Once inside the door was sealed shut and the Scientist pushed a few switches until the room felt...very silent. Optimus wasn't sure what he did but now he felt like he couldn't hear anything. Like they were isolated.
Perceptor took a seat and folded his arms, looking at the pair with an uninterested gaze.
'Well then? What is the problem? Why does it involve him?'
Optimus suddenly felt nervous again and he lowered his helm as the Magnus stepped forward to explain.
'Perceptor I only ask that you could please be as sensitive as you can in this matter! You see...Optimus Prime here...he's Carrying.'
The young Prime cringed as the Magnus revealed his terrible secret yet the Scientist did not seem to really care. In fact he seemed annoyed.
'Is that all? Carrying? Why do you need me to know that? You can take him to another medic who has knowledge on the matter! I thought you stated that this was important!'
Ultra Magnus sighed, looking over at the trembling Prime before explaining any further.
'The Sire is a Decepticon.'
That caught the Scientist's interest. In fact his optics widened a little and he looked over at the Prime with a look of curiosity. Optimus looked away, feeling a wave of shame hitting him and his Spark pulsed quite fast.
'Are you certain? The Sire is a Decepticon?' he asked, getting up and walking over to Optimus, studying his frame.
'Unfortunately yes...Optimus was...attacked...and he is now with Sparkling. A Hybrid! We need your medical advice for I'm not sure that any Autobot has been through this ordeal!'
Perceptor gazed at Optimus, looking him up and down before circling him, taking in everything he could.
'Which Decepticon?'
Optimus's optics widened at the question and he looked away, feeling all the hate and misery when he thought of the one who ruined him and cursed him with this terrible burden. Ultra Magnus too felt sick to core when he thought of the one who harmed his beloved Prime, turning his hands into fists as he uttered that foul name,
'It was...Megatron.'
Perceptor actually showed a rare form of emotion, a look of shock when he heard that name.
'Megatron is the Sire? Hmmmm...interesting.'
Interesting? Primus he may look like he was surprised but he didn't seem to show it in his words.
The Magnus nodded, his face filled with a grim expression. Perceptor then turned to look at the Prime; the young mech looked like he was on the verge of tears and his entire frame trembled before the Scientist. Perceptor, as cold as it sounded, didn't seem to care as he circled the Prime, scanning him with his own internal medical equipment and checked his readings, taking down notes and muttering things to himself. Ultra Magnus watched with uneasy optics as the emotionless 'bot looked at Optimus as if he was nothing but a lifeless shell. He only hoped that Perceptor wouldn't upset him too much.
'You. Get on the berth!' he suddenly ordered.
Optimus flinched upon hearing the command and watched as Scientist made his way to a cabinet to pull out some tools. When Optimus didn't move, Perceptor glanced over at him.
'I said, get on the berth!'
He knew he sounded like a Sparkless machine but Optimus could not believe how insensitive this 'bot was being. He had just been informed that he had been attacked by Megatron and had a Sparkling forced onto him! Why was he treating him like it didn't matter? Ultra Magnus sensed this and placed a reassuring hand on the young Prime's shoulder.
'I know he sounds Sparkless old mech but please, he can't understand how you feel right now for he lacks the ability to. I know this will be tough but bear with him; he truly is a good 'bot. He just wants to make sure that nothing is wrong with you physically!'
Optimus sighed but nodded. He had to remember that Perceptor could not feel sadness or regret.
Walking over to the berth, he climbed on and sat down with his legs hanging over the edge. Perceptor walked back over with some equipment and placed them on a nearby table. Ultra Magnus stood nearby, ready for anything and hoping that they won't get bad news.
'Open your Spark Chamber.'
The young Prime suddenly looked ill and for a moment did nothing. His arms wrapped around his chassis in a defensive way and refused to look up. Perceptor uttered an impatient sound.
'I need to examine your Spark.'
Ultra Magnus sighed and walked around the Prime, placing both hands on his shivering shoulders. He leaned down and whispered calming and soothing words into his audios, massaged his shoulders gently, promising Optimus that he would be there and no one will harm him. Right now he had to trust Perceptor for the elder mech trusted him with his own life. A couple of clicks passed until Optimus finally lowered his hands and opened his chassis plating to revel the pulsating Spark underneath. He looked away with a red face whilst Ultra Magnus continued to hold him. Perceptor leaned down and examined it.
'You are 3 orbital cycles, 2 deca-cycles, 2 sols and 7 cycles 6 clicks into the Carrying. You are still in phase one of the process which is quite lucky for in this stage I can easily run some tests without bringing it any harm. You are lacking the nutrients needed for the growth and you appear to have grown new equipment required for the Carrying. The Sparkling's Spark is quite large compared to normal Autobot Sparklings.'
He raised a device to the Spark and checked the readings.
'Yes...these are Decepticon readings as well as Autobot readings. The Sparkling's Spark contains both codings...mmmm...this could be a problem.'
Optimus frowned; he didn't like the sound of that, especially from a 'bot like Perceptor. He shivered as the Scientist continued to study his Spark, taking readings and notes as he did. Perceptor then pulled out a stylus like device attached to a wire, leading to his monitor close by. He tapped the tip before he carefully guided the stylus towards Optimus's Spark and as gently as he could, he forced it in. The sensation of the long stylus entering his Spark made Optimus suddenly yelp and he almost jumped off the table. Ultra Magnus held him and calmed him whilst Perceptor observed.
'It appears you are much more sensitive than normal. This procedure shouldn't cause you to react like that. In fact you should barely feel it. Carrying usually does not cause that, however this is a Hybrid. There could be some serious side effects.'
Optimus uttered a small whine of discomfort.
'Does this hurt?' asked the emotionless 'bot.
The young Prime groaned and nodded.
'It feels like...a painful tingle,' he whimpered.
Perceptor wrote this down.
'Hmmm...this is unusual. Carrying mechs don't normally feel anything during this stage. Your sensitivity seems unusually high. I might need to take an Energon test later.'
He removed the tool and Optimus sighed with relief.
Perceptor added the data he gathered onto his system, turning his back on the two other mechs for a moment. Optimus took a little breath of air and Ultra Magnus patted his back.
'You're doing very well, Optimus!'
The young Prime was glad that this all seemed to be going smoothly. He was a little worried when Perceptor said there might be a problem but hopefully he would be able to remedy that. He was still scared of what the emotionless mech may ask of him but hopefully it wouldn't be graphic. Ultra Magnus himself seemed pleased at the moment but was desperate to know what may become of both Optimus and the Sparkling. The Scientist spent a few good clicks by the terminal before coming over.
'How many times did he release transfluids into you?'
What?
Optimus looked up upon hearing that, making sure he had heard what he thought he heard. Did...did he really just ask him that? Did he seriously ask him that...terrible question? Perceptor looked at him with the same cold optics as before.
'How many times?' asked Perceptor.
Hearing that...almost awful and nearly vile question, made the Prime's optics widen with horror. In fact he fell back into the Magnus, who also looked at Perceptor with horror.
'P-Perceptor! Please show some concern!' he cried.
'I need to know,' replied the emotionless mech, calmly.
Optimus could only look back with wide open optics and trembling lips. Why? Why would he need to know that?
'I...I...Why do you..? I can't...I-I...I...'
Perceptor sighed.
'It appears you lack some knowledge about Sparklings and Carrying which is unsatisfactory. You must learn the simple basics of Carrying if you are to go through with this so you can be better prepared. The protoform from which the Sparkling's body is formed the transfluids Megatron ejaculated into you, as well as your own. Depending how much he ejaculated into you and how many times will affect the size of the Protoform once they have been prepared in your Sparkling Chamber. The Sparkling's Spark is already above normal size. The bigger the protoform, the more likely it will grow too big and crush your own Spark chamber resulting in your death. I also need to know if you also ejac-...'
'STOP! JUST...stop!'
Optimus couldn't take it and he suddenly jumped off the table, running over to hide behind a screen, unable to listen to anymore what the emotionless mech had to say. It was just all too much. He was asking for too much. Ultra Magnus tried to grab him but he could already see the tears falling from the Prime's face and he lost his grip on him. He could only watch as the young Prime hid behind a nearby screen and sob quietly. Groaning in misery, he looked over at Perceptor, who just stared after the Prime.
'Perceptor...I understand that you need the information...but can you please try to be a little more sensitive.'
The Scientist showed no remorse as he explained.
'Ultra Magnus, he will die if the Sparkling is too big. It would tear him apart and crush his Spark by stage three of the Carrying Phase, I need to know exactly how big it would possibly become so I can administered the correct amount of the Anti-Protoform Growth Formula. Too much and the Sparkling will die. Too little and they will both die.'
Hearing these words from Perceptor sent a chill in Ultra Magnus's frame.
'The Decepticons are giants compared to us, Ultra Magnus. You of all 'bots should know that. They carry a unique coding within their Energon mech-blood that allows them to mature into bigger and larger machines and they have been passing it on to the next generation as they evolved. I have seen Megatron and I know he is very large compared to the Prime. The Sparkling within him contains both codings, Autobot and Decepticon, his and Megatron's, and I am certain that the factor in the Decepticon coding to allow the Sparkling to grow into a larger form is present. It will kill him when it reaches stage three so I must know how much of Megatron's transfluids he took in.'
Ultra Magnus could not help but moan in woeful disbelief, rubbing his heated brow with a shaken hand. He stood back and looked over at the shadow of the hidden young Prime, still sobbing as quietly as he could. He had never guessed that this horrid condition could be...fatal for Optimus. Carrying a Sparkling had never ever been considered dangerous or life threatening! The very idea that Optimus could die after giving birth to Megatron's Sparkling...it just sounded like a horrible and twisted nightmare. That wretched monster forced his Spark onto him and he could die, but Megatron wouldn't care, he would just take the infant from his cold shell.
He could not blame Optimus for not wanting to share the gruesome details about his attack. Who would want to? After all he had been through. To tell Perceptor what exactly that monster had done to him, to have someone know what happened to him that awful night, to force himself to remember what had happened to him...but to also learn that he could die if he didn't? To hear that his life would be extinguished after giving birth to Megatron's spawn must of been...just too awful to bear!
Hope wasn't lost though. If he did give Perceptor the information he needed, Optimus would be able to take the correct does of Anti-Protoform Growth Formula, a special drug designed for mechs and femmes who are Carrying Sparklings that were far too big for them. It was designed to remove some of the excess transfluids and shrink the Sparkling's own Spark to a suitable size, making it easier for the Carrier to give birth the Sparkling with no trouble. The only downside was the fact the Sparkling wouldn't regain the height it would of grown to originally.
It sounded cruel but he had to convince Optimus to tell Perceptor the truth.
He carefully walked over to the large screen where Optimus was hiding behind; peering round to see the poor thing huddled on the ground with his back to him, trembling as he tried to still his sobs. He knelt down behind him and gently placed a hand on his shoulder.
'Optimus...I can't even begin to imagine what this must be like for you...I know you don't want to go back to that horrid place in your mind...but if you or the little one are to survive this ordeal you must help us to help you!'
The young Prime shivered and peeped over his shoulder.
'I...I can't,' he sobbed.
Ultra Magnus leaned in, petting his helm and smiling as gently as he could. He didn't know what else he could to comfort him in this painful time.
'I know, I know you can't...but you must! I will not allow you to die because of what that foul monster did to you! You have to be strong Optimus, you have to prove to me, and to us that Megatron no longer has control over you! You can do this. I believe in you, I know you are strong enough to overcome this. So please...let us help. I will try to convince Perceptor to be more sensitive...so please...I will be right here and we won't think any less of you...please?'
For a moment Optimus did nothing.
'I'm...s-scared,' he choked.
'I know. I know you are Optimus. It's alright, we're not judging you. We both just want to help you! So please. I just want to see you be safe and healthy, without fear and pain. I'm here Optimus. I won't leave you.'
It was almost too painful to watch for the elder mech! Optimus was once an Autobot who could do things without fear...but now he just sat there like a shivering wreak and Ultra Magnus could not even recognize him anymore! It made his hate for the vile Decepticon leader grow to unknown levels and his determination to get the young Prime back to what he once was now grew even more! He wasn't going to let the real Optimus fade away and he wasn't going to let Megatron win the terrible battle over the Prime!
'Optimus...please? Let us help you! You can do this; you have to for both you and the sake of your Sparkling! I can't do this for you! Please Optimus, you used to be strong and determined! I know that side of you is still there and I know it is telling you that you must provide Perceptor with the information he needs to help you! Now Optimus Prime, tell us what we need to know!'
The last part was a little harsh and even made Optimus flinch but he thought that it was something he could use to bring out the side of the young Prime that was somewhere hidden inside his being. However a few clicks passed and Optimus didn't seem to be doing anything. He was about to coo him again when at long last the young Prime said,
'I'll...t-try...' he whimpered.
'That's a good 'bot,' replied Ultra Magnus, helping him up.
He guided Optimus back to the berth were Perceptor continued to look on with those cold optics. he sat down on the berth with his face looking down at his pedes, Ultra Magnus standing close by in case something would go wrong. The elder mech looked to Perceptor and nodded, giving him permission to re ask the awful question that needed an answer.
'Now Optimus Prime. How many times did Megatron ejaculate into you?'
There was a chilling silence in the room and Optimus did not seem to react. He just sat there, head hanging down in shame and twitching slightly. Ultra Magnus placed an hand on his shoulder and squeezed him gently. A few clicks passed until Optimus mumbled,
'F-five times...'
As Perceptor took a note, Ultra Magnus gave the young Prime a well deserved pat on the shoulder. Sadly the small piece of information had painted a very large and ugly painting inside the elder mech's mind and no matter what he did; he could not remove the foul image from his CPU. His hatred for Megatron seemed to be growing even more than it already had been.
Optimus just sat there, feeling a little strange after giving out information he thought he would never share with anyone. It was like he had split in two, one side was proud of himself for getting it out whilst the other part was regretting it like mad! It felt good that Ultra Magnus was proud of him and he felt a little happy that no one was criticizing him for being so weak. It sadly reminded him of that awful night where Megatron took him six times. He did take him by the valve five times but the missing sixth one was an agonizing oral one where he was forced to drink those foul fluids into his fuel engines. He wasn't going to tell them that though for he did know that swallowing transfluids had nothing to do with a producing a Sparkling.
'Given his size he must ejaculate at least seven standard units of transfluids at a time. Take the fact that some might of not of gone directly into your Protoform forming chamber I believe...hmmmm, yes...'
He turned back to face the young Prime.
'Did you ejaculate? If so then how many times?'
The young Prime bit his lip hard and looked away. Ultra Magnus's frown got even grimmer and he patted Optimus again, trying to give him confidence. This question was harder than the first and he really didn't want to give an answer. To tell someone that a Decepticon actually got him to overload was nothing short but embarrassing for an Autobot like himself. Truth be told he wasn't even sure if he did. He remembered something making him cry out before Megatron overloaded into him the second time but he wasn't sure.
Optimus wasn't even sure what an overload was supposed to feel like.
'I...can't remember,'
'Are you certain?'
Optimus nodded.
'Was it your first time?'
That question made the young Prime jolt violently but he nodded. Ultra Magnus could do nothing more but pat his back.
'Since it was your first experience in an interface and given that you were taken against your will, also take into account he had you for quite some time given the amount of times he ejaculated into you...I would estimate that you must have at least ejaculated at least once or twice...give or take. Does that sound about right?'
He honestly could not remember if he had or not but he did force himself to go back to that horrid memory to check, for the sake of the little one growing inside of him. When Megatron took him the second time he did feel something and he was pretty sure during the final time Megatron had him he had the same reaction.
'I think...yes...'
'I see...given your size and your fluids...hmmmm...'
Perceptor walked off and did some more calculations. The young Prime just looked down, unable to look up at anyone. In fact he wasn't sure he could face the Magnus after all of this!
Perceptor made more calculations out loud and solved a few solutions in his mind whilst taking notes. He looked over at them and suddenly said,
'You will be here for a while for I need more information!'
Optimus sighed miserably. Just how much did he need to know?
Sitting in the shuttle that was taking them back to the Magnus's estate, the Autobot Commander sighed heavily and gazed down at the young Prime, now leaning against him unknowingly whilst he slept. It didn't surprise him that he was now sleeping for the sol had been very long and poor Optimus hardly had a chance to rest. At least he bore the expression of peace as he recharged himself. Optimus had been so brave to go through all that, telling someone he didn't even know information he was too afraid to share with anyone. He was proud of him that he did so but at the same time he felt bad for making him tell them all those things.
Perceptor meant well but he could be so...uncaring at times. He pushed Optimus to give him more information, things like 'what were your Spark readings like on the day?' and 'when did he merge his Spark with yours?' and surprisingly 'Did you tell anyone else about this?'
At the end of the sol, Perceptor was an Autobot and his secondary job was to keep his own kind safe from the Decepticon threat. He was pleased that only Ultra Magnus and Ratchet knew of his condition, knowing that the medic could keep his mouth shut when it came to information like that. He also asked him the same question and Ultra Magnus's answer was the same, he never told anyone but Ratchet.
He took all he could from Optimus Prime, samples, notes and little bits of information that could help in anyway. He was going to spend an entire sol studying them to make sure he could keep the young Prime safe and well. Until they Perceptor said he just needed rest and to drink special Energon that was made for Carrying 'bots.
Before they left he did pull Ultra Magnus to the side to discuss something that shocked the elder mech.
'When the Sparkling is born, others will record it's date of birth and that information could somehow fall into Decepticon hands! Even if you try to hide it, he will begin to bulk during the third and final stage and others will notice eventually.'
Ultra Magnus frowned for he had never considered this! It took fifth teen orbital cycles, exactly fifth teen orbital cycles for a Sparkling to grow until it was ready to leave the safety of it's Carrier's chamber. Everyone knew that, even the simple ones! If Megatron learnt of the exact date when the little one was born he could easily figure out that it was his!
'I have a suggestion, if you are prepared?'
It didn't surprise him that Perceptor had an idea.
'What is it then?'
'I am aware of your...'
He paused to remove his specs and wipe them.
'Attraction to that Prime.'
Ultra Magnus nearly went red.
'H-how did you know?'
'Wheeljack may not have a visible mouth but he talks...a lot. He also hears things others can't. I also confirmed my suspicious during your quick check up before you left to locate him and his team. Your Spark pulsed quite fast whenever he mentioned his name.'
Ultra Magnus flushed a small shade of pink and grumbled to himself whilst Perceptor calmly placed his specs back on. Before he left for Earth, Perceptor preformed a final check up on him, to make sure he was functioning at top levels before he departed. Wheeljack was also present and it was he asking the questions whilst the Scientist carried out the Spark readings. Whenever Wheeljack mentioned Optimus, the Magnus's Spark pulsed quite fast for he was eager to find the young Prime and Perceptor was able to translate this into 'affection' that the elder mech had for the young Prime.
'I sometimes forget how big your CPU is,' sighed the Magnus with a forced smile.
'Quite. Now about my proposal. I have a solution for the issue regarding the Sparkling, to stop Megatron from suspecting that it may be his but you need to...openly share your affection for Optimus Prime.'
'I beg your pardon?'
Perceptor sighed.
'Express yourself to Optimus around others. Let Cybertron see that you two are courting. That way everyone will believe you and he are in a relationship of sorts.'
Ultra Magnus blinked in surprise.
'How...will that help us?'
'I will explain this later for it regards a special formula that Wheeljack developed to slow down the growth of a Sparkling...I have to run a few tests before it's ready of course. For now take him home and let him rest. The pair of you are ready to collapse at any click now and I don't want you sleeping in my office. I'll send someone over with the correct Energon Drinks he should be taking. Hopefully I will be able to discuss with you about this in the next sol, after I studied everything.'
The elder mech sighed with relief but he had almost forgotten one thing.
'One other thing Perceptor. Before we left Earth...Optimus began to...he...he suddenly fell into an aroused state of mind.'
Perceptor titled his head.
'Explain.'
Ultra Magnus sighed in embarrassment and was thankful Optimus wasn't within audio shot of their conversation.
'He...came into my office to drop something off and he...suddenly went into some sort of heat mode, only it seemed to be rather unusual. He was...pleasuring himself in my office and I...well...'
Perceptor frowned and took some notes.
'He suddenly became aroused?'
'Y-ys...and that led to...er...I er...he and I...'
'I believe I understand. When did this happen?'
'Oddly enough it happened on the sol we left the planet, after I tried to express myself to him!'
Oh, he didn't mean to say that bit out loud.
'And he refused you?'
'He...he was in a poor state of mind and I had no idea at the time. I scared him a little...I'm not sure if it is a side effect of the Carrying or-...'
'Impossible. Carrying does not force the body into a deranged heat cycle. In fact during a Carrying he should not desire to interface with anyone. I will examine his Energon sample to determine what caused this. Was anyone on your team in possession of...certain chemicals?'
Chemicals?
'I never checked.'
'Well I will have to investigate this. Even if it is a Hybrid, Carriers are never able to engage their heat cycles unless provoked.'
That sentence that Perceptor spoke still rang in Ultra Magnus's audios and it was now worrying him. Frowning as he gazed out the windows of the shuttle he began to wonder if either Jazz or Sentinel were in possession of these...chemicals...what kind of chemicals did he mean? Did the two Elite Guard mechs have these substances in their possession? And if they were could they of...no, Jazz wasn't the type and Sentinel didn't seem to be either...then again, one could never know what another mech was truly like.
Jazz had been desperate to get the two together, as did Sentinel when he found out it could make him a Magnus quicker...but Ultra Magnus couldn't see either of them doing such a thing. Sentinel did things by the book and Jazz was a student of the late Yoketron, there was no way that either of them could of carried out this theory!
His thoughts were interrupted when Optimus made a mewling noise in his sleep and nestled against the elder mech.
Ultra Magnus smiled slightly and patted the young Prime on the helm. Even in his sleep he had a way to melt his Spark. Still he could see the small amount of pain that was left on his pretty face. It truly would be a very long road until Optimus was back to normal but he was certain that he could bring him out of his shell. Megatron would never see or touch him ever, of that he would make certain. Until then he would protect him and help him in any way possible. His love for him would have to come later for what he really needed was a friend he could count on and trust.
Looking out of the shuttle windows he could see the Elite Guard Compound and the Fortress Maximus coming into sight. Soon they would be home and soon they could rest.
