In this chapter Optimus and Ultra Magnus go off for a walk in the woods where the young mech was taken by the Decepticon leader. Prowl and Jazz follow and the black and gold ninja bot begins to notice something off.
WARNING! THIS CHAPTER HAS REFERENCES TO RAPE AND A LITTLE MECH ON MECH LOVE. DO NOT READ IF THIS OFFENDS YOU! YO HAVE BEEN WARNED!
Painful Memories
The plan seemed to be going well, minus the little hiccup they had yesterday. The weather had cleared up so it was now an almost perfect day to go out on a date. Jazz stood with Ultra Magnus just outside the Autobot base giving him a few last tips on what do just in case something unexpected happens. Even though Ultra Magnus was experienced in courting he wanted to make sure that he would be able to win Optimus's Spark since he was rather serious about this one. Also he seemed a little nervous after yesterday when he almost blew it when he practically demanded Optimus to take him on a tour of the organic world. He felt so bad afterward he began slapping his face with his palm when Jazz left him alone. Optimus looked very upset about it when Jazz shoved him out the office before he could protest any further. He had to take it easy on the young mech, he was trying to win him over not force him into a relationship...even though technically he had the power to do that.
No. He wanted Optimus to fall for him naturally. He wanted to win his Spark over no matter what. Today he wasn't the Magnus, the Supreme Commander of the Autobot race and the leader of the great Elite Guard Army. Today he was just plain old Ultra, a good and firm mech who just wanted to spend a day with another lovely young mech. He wanted the young Autobot to see him as another fellow Autobot he can get friendly with, however in order to get Optimus to see that he had to be as casual with him as he could be. He had to be careful not to freak Optimus out though for he was trained to act formal around high ranking officers like himself. Optimus wouldn't dare cross that border unless he felt comfortable enough to do so. He had to break that barrier between them that separated them so they could be together.
Jazz could see that Ultra Magnus was deep though and frowned. He probably didn't hear a thing he said but then again the Magnus might be planning his own strategy to win Optimus Prime's Spark. He knew deep down that Ultra Magnus would be able to win Optimus over but they had to take it slow. If they rushed it the young mech would either freak out or think that this was some sort of joke or something. The moment he sensed that the young Autobot leader was approaching he quickly snapped the elder mech out of his trance so he could remind him where he was going and what he had to do.
'OK big bot it's all up to ya now! Just play it cool and soon he'll be melting into your arms!'
With that the ninja bot leapt away and out of sight leaving Ultra Magnus all alone. Trying to calm himself he suddenly notice a flash of red and blue out of the corner of his optics. Looking up he smiled gently when he noticed Optimus Prime exiting the base and slowly walking towards him. As he got closer the elder mech frowned. Optimus didn't look at all happy. He wasn't standing tall but slumped over slightly, his shoulders hunch and his arms were limp. He was dragging his pedes as if there were weights attached to them and he didn't even look up at Ultra Magnus. He looked like he was walking off to his own execution. It was painfully clear he was not happy to be there.
Why did he not want to be there? Why did he look so miserable? In the past any mech even Optimus would be honored to give Ultra Magnus a tour of their command post no matter where it was but Optimus didn't look at all keen to do so. Did he not want this honor? Did he not want to be with him? Was it possible that Optimus Prime...hated him? Hated him so much that he couldn't bear to be alone with him? Was it because he expelled him from the academy all those stellar cycles ago? Did he only act polite around him because of his rank but secretly hated him? What was the reason? As Optimus stood before him Ultra Magnus realized that this was going to be harder than he realized.
The young Autobot leader stood up straight once he was before his Commander and gave him a weak salute.
'Are we ready to proceed sir?' he asked.
He sounded weak and tired. Was he sick?
'Optimus Prime...are you feeling alright?'
Optimus looked up and tried to smile. He did want to say he was sick so Ultra Magnus would call the whole thing off but he had a feeling that the elder mech would just send him off to see Ratchet, get a debugging program and then come right back. He didn't want Ratchet to think he was ill otherwise he demand a whole system check and he might find something that the AllSpark did not fix. Not wanting that to happen he just forced a smile on and decided to get this dam thing over with. He just wasn't so keen on going back...there.
'I-I'm fine, sir. I just feel a little funny that's all. I didn't get enough recharge last night so...I'm fine, really!'
Ultra Magnus didn't seemed too convinced as the young mech looked up at him with tired optics. Optimus had been acting strange lately and he was concerned but he decided to ignore it for now. For all he knew Optimus was going through some sort of phase that he didn't want to share. Some young bots usually when through a phase when they either acted very angry or very tired for no reason at all. However if his strange behavior continued he would have to get Ratchet to look into it. Last thing he wanted was for Optimus to get a virus and suffer later on for it. However right now his biggest concern was to get Optimus to loosen up a little. He was just so tense right now.
'Very well then. Shall we get going?'
'Y-yes sir!'
The old mech suddenly thought that maybe Optimus was just nervous being around him like this. That he was just afraid he might not be impressed with his organic post. Maybe he could start knocking down that barrier between them by making the young mech feel a little comfortable around him. Smiling gently he patted Optimus on the shoulder.
'Optimus Prime you don't have to address me as "sir" despite who I am. Just call me by name as if I were your friend.'
Upon hearing that Optimus suddenly looked up at Ultra Magnus confused. He had never heard of such a request coming from an officer, especially from the Magnus of all mechs. He had been trained to always use the proper marks of respect no matter what. The Autobot Commander flinched slightly as Optimus looked up at him with questioning optics and decided to get on with the tour.
'W-well...shall we head out?'
As the two mechs transformed and drove off they were unaware that they were being watched by a pair of ninja bots who gazed down at them from the rooftop of the Autobot base. Jazz grinned slightly as the two mechs drove off. He didn't tell Ultra Magnus the "other" part of his plan, the part where he and Prowl would be following them at a distance to make sure that Ultra Magnus wouldn't do anything stupid. He had told the Autobot Commander that he would be off training with Prowl and in a way this was sort of a training session...to make sure that the two Autobots wouldn't spot them as they trailed behind them. He had a good feeling that the Autobot Commander was going to be fine but he wanted to gather data so he could spot the faults between him and Optimus and then he would be able to work from there on how to bring those two closer together.
The white ninja bot chuckled with glee as his plan was coming together whilst the black and gold ninja observed the two mechs who had just left. Prowl had been watching Optimus as he walked up to the Autobot Commander and how he acted around him. There was something off about him. He had heard from Ratchet and Bulkhead that their leader had been acting rather oddly. He noticed it too but in great detail. He was tense, tired and didn't look like he wanted to be there. His body movements had even changed from tall and proud to slumped and sluggish. He also detected...fear...fear and worry...was he afraid? Why was Optimus afraid? Was he afraid or was it something else? He couldn't make it out what it was but something...something was there that had changed Optimus Prime.
His thoughts were interrupted when Jazz nudged him on the shoulder.
'C'mon babe, we better start following or we'll loose 'em!'
Prowl sighed gently and decided to ignore it for now. As he and his lover chased after the two mechs without them noticing he could not help but wonder if Optimus Prime was hiding something...something that he did not want anyone to know...something...something terrible.
Optimus's Spark was pulsing very fast as he drove alongside Ultra Magnus. So fast he thought it was going to explode. They were getting closer and closer to the city border and that meant they were getting closer and closer to the forest...a place of beauty for any but for him it was like returning to a smelting pit full of horror and terror. He was afraid...terribly afraid...in fact every single one of his circuits were trembling in fear. His CPU was begging for him to find an excuse, any excuse to get out of there but he could not find one. He couldn't believe he was going back...back to that terrible place where his whole life had been turned upside down. A few times his engine started to die down and he ended up falling behind the Magnus who ended up calling out to him to enquire why he was driving so slow. He'd reply that his engines were just acting up but now he was beginning to worry that Ultra Magnus might notice something odd in his behavior.
What was he going to do? What if he ran into Megatron again? What if he was there? Waiting for him? Wanting to take him all over again? However Ultra Magnus was here with him and he had heard the stories of how he and Megatron fought each other during the great wars. Maybe he could defend him from the Tyrant if he stayed with him. But what if Megatron would taunt him and tell Ultra Magnus how he used one of his Autobots as a Pleasurebot? Ultra Magnus would then know and then tell the others...then everyone would know! His only hope was that he's give the Autobot Commander a quick tour and then leave as quickly as they could. Get in get out...that was the plan.
'Is the organic forest?'
The young mech was brought out of his trance and realized that they were now entering the woodland area. Already his mind was being plagued by terrible and painful memories of what happened to him last time he was here. Even though it was daylight it almost felt like he had gone back in time and he was once again patrolling the forest that night where Megatron was waiting for him. He almost hit the brakes the moment he saw the dirt track where they had to go by foot. His Spark was now pulsing even faster and his whole frame began to tremble like crazy until he could hear the mechanical parts within him rattle. Those trees towered over him as if they were trying to block his escape. He heard noises and he scanned the area frantically, cursing when he realized they were just organic animals. Even though he was with Ultra Magnus he did not at all feel safe.
As Ultra Magnus transformed back into his robot mode he looked around and could not help but marvel at the organic forest before him. He had never seen anything like it and he had to admit it was such a beautiful sight. Even though he preferred the metallic world of Cybertron this organic world was so..so...enchanting. The bright small plants called flowers the flourished here and there seemed so enchanting and lit up the place. Tiny insects fluttered around them as if they too were admiring the beautiful plants. The large trees were dotted here and there, each one a different shape and design, each one unique and even though they weren't moving or making any sound...they felt like they were alive. They were as tall as a Decepticon but unlike a Decepticon they looked so much more appealing and majestic. Small organic creatures could be spotted here and there that brought even more life to the place. He had learnt that the humans believed that some of them were "cute" but he still could not understand what was so cute about a small creature covered in fur and made strange sounds. Jazz was right...this place was both beautiful and amazing.
'I have never seen anything like this in my entire life! It makes me sad that most Cybertronians can't stand organic worlds.'
He had hoped Optimus had heard so he would add more to the conversation he was trying to start. However he heard nothing. Looking over his shoulder he found that the young mech was still in his vehicle mode.
'Optimus?'
The moment he heard his name the young Autobot slowly transformed and quickly looked around. So far he could only detect his and Ultra Magnus's Spark readings but he remained on high alert in fear Megatron might be lurking about. Ultra Magnus tilted his head as he watched Optimus look around on high alert.
'Is something wrong Optimus?'
Optimus looked up and tried to act calm but he was shaking and couldn't keep still.
'S-sorry sir. I was j-just looking out for danger...I mean you n-never know with these organic worlds!'
Ultra Magnus smirked and sighed as he walked over and patted Optimus on the shoulder once again. It was so like him to watch out for danger but according to the recent reports there was nothing up here to be concerned about.
'That won't be necessary Optimus. With my scanners I can detect a Decepticon or even a dangerous organic coming a mega-mile off! Besides we both can handle ourselves well in battle...and I told you, you don't have to address me as "sir" all the time.'
That made Optimus feel a little better but he could not help but remain at high alert. Last time even with his scanners on Megatron was able to sneak up right behind him. Then again Ultra Magnus had the latest technology built into him so he should be safe. Keeping his axe at the ready he proceeded to follow his Commander into that beautiful yet terrible woodland once again. As the two mechs entered Jazz and Prowl carefully followed not too far off. So far they had not been noticed and so far Ultra Magnus was doing quite well. However Optimus didn't seem to be getting into it. He was acting like a paranoid Autobot. Was it because he afraid for the safety of their Commander? He must of known that despite his age Ultra Magnus could take care of himself.
They waited until they walked deeper into the woods before jumping onto the sturdy branches and began to trail behind them. Jazz was careful where he landed for these organic plants weren't as sturdy as metal poles and made strange noises that would alert the two mechs of their presence. He wanted to stick close so he could hear what Ultra Magnus would say to the younger mech. The Autobot Commander said he was going to start off easy by asking a few questions about the area before he even considered asking the more personnel questions. Prowl was in front of him for he knew which branch was sturdy enough to hold their weight. He too was curious with what the Magnus was going to ask his leader.
Ultra Magnus himself was already going through the questions he was going to ask in his CPU. He looked round for a topic and spotted some trees that looked different to the others. It might be a boring topic but he had to start somewhere. Walking over to them with Optimus in tow he asked,
'So do all these "trees" have different breeds? What is this breed?'
Optimus glanced up at the tree. He wasn't an expert like Prowl but he dug up the file he downloaded off the world wide web.
'I believe this is what the humans call a Weeping Willow, sir...I mean Ultra Magnus.'
The Autobot Commander sighed discreetly as Optimus continued to act formal but was pleased that he now called him by name. He decided to lengthen the conversation.
'Weeping willow? What an odd name...though I do have to admit these humans do come up with interesting names for all these trees. In fact the names they give to the things on this planet are quite strange...strange but at the same time interesting...don't you think so...Optimus?...Optimus?'
Looking over at where Optimus was standing he frowned when he noticed that the young mech wasn't even looking at him or even listening to him. He was scanning the area once again and remained at high alert. Was he trying to find a Decepticon or something? Or was he bored and trying to find something interesting to do? Jazz and Prowl noticed too from the bush they were hiding behind and the two ninja bots frowned.
'Do ya think he can detect us?' asked Jazz in a hushed tone.
'I doubt it. I stood right behind him for a whole cycle without him noticing!' answered Prowl.
Ultra Magnus began to think that maybe the topic about trees didn't interest the young mech so he looked around for something else to talk about. Looking up on one of the trees he noticed a very strange looking organic creature with a large furry tail looking at him with it's small beady optics. It stared at him and made a funny noise as it twitched his olfactory sensor and began to gnaw at it's tiny servos.
'What is that creature Optimus?' asked the Commander as he continued to stare at it.
Optimus looked back over to his Commander and followed his gaze until he saw what he was looking at.
'Oh...they call that a squirrel...they're quite...er...troublesome.'
'Troublesome?'
'Well our human friend Sari brought one into the base and explained that they were little creatures who scavenge for a food supply known as nuts and store them for the cold periods they have on this planet...she said that nuts were small little edible things but for some reason it went after Bulkhead's nuts and it almost took him apart from the inside.'
A small smirk suddenly appeared on Ultra Magnus's face.
'What happened?'
'Well it got trapped under his armor so Ratchet had to take him apart until he pulled it out. It somehow managed to get five of Bulkhead's nuts out and it took them forever to find out where they came from. Since them I had to tell Sari to keep her little pets out of the base. Bulkhead gets a little jumpy at the sight of them.'
A small smile suddenly appeared on Optimus's face at the rather funny memory of Bulkhead fleeing from a squirrel when they were in the park suddenly washed over his CPU and Ultra Magnus could not help but chuckle. This was more like it. Optimus was starting to loosen up a little and he even smiled but he was still tense. He had to find something else to talk about and found that he could ask the young mech a personnel question.
'So which one of these Earth creatures do you like, Optimus?'
Optimus looked up at the Commander a little surprised but decided to answer back.
'W-well...I...I don't really have a favorite...but I do admire the bird creatures.'
'Bird creatures?'
'Yes...there are all different types...and I admire the fact that without the need of anti-gravity equipment or jet packs they are able to fly using only their wings. I mean I always wondered what it would be like to fly and they seem to do it with such ease.'
Ultra Magnus could not help but smile gently at that last part. A small dreamy look suddenly appeared in those tired optics and he looked more active than he did before. He did remember reading Optimus's profile where he wrote that the only thing he admired about the Decepticons was their ability to fly. Many Autobots including himself had always wanted to experience the ability to fly but only Decepticons had the ability to soar into the heavens with their unique circuitry. Since they were on very bad terms with the Decepticons they would not share their technology with the Autobots. The ability of flight would forever be a Decepticon trait that Autobots would forever envy them for. Patting Optimus on the back he gave him a reassuring smile.
'I'm sure one day we will master the art of flight. Till then I guess we have to remain on the ground like the grubby Autobots that we are.'
That made Optimus chuckle slightly, much to Ultra Magnus's joy. He was finally starting to relax and wanting to keep him like that he continued to ask more and more questions about the organic world. As they walked off deeper into the woods Jazz and Prowl began to follow them again. The white ninja bot suddenly felt giddy when he noticed that the young Autobot leader was starting to loosen up around the Commander.
'Oh yeah, way to go big bot!'
'Shhh! Don't want him to hear you!'
The two ninja bots both leapt up into the trees and began to carefully follow both Optimus and Ultra Magnus through the woodland. The two mechs were now having sharing a small conversation about the organic creatures and Optimus seemed to be fully relaxed now. He was now explaining the difference between domestic pets and wild animals to the Autobot Commander.
'...for some reason humans only keep animal types known as cats, dogs and certain birds as pets but the animals out here aren't what the humans consider to be pets,' explained Optimus, who now seemed interested in the topic.
'That is rather strange...what is the difference?' asked Ultra Magnus.
Jazz was now very pleased how it was all going. So pleased that he lost his footing and almost yelped when he slipped and hit a weak branch with his leg which caused it to snap and fall. It hit the ground with a loud thud, right next to Optimus's feet. The young mech reacted quite badly when he heard the sound of the branch hitting the ground near him and suddenly jumped against Ultra Magnus. The Autobot Commander was taken by surprise when Optimus suddenly jumped against him and blushed slightly when he found that Optimus was pressing his chassis up against him as he looked around frantically, trying to figure out where the noise had come from.
Prowl just slapped his face as Jazz tried to pull himself away before the two mechs spotted him. Even though the white ninja bot was an Elite guard he had a habit of not watching where he was going. That and he wasn't used to the organic world he was trying to blend into. Once he regained his footing the two ninja bots quickly hid behind some branches to recover. They both peered from their hiding place to see that Optimus was pressed up against Ultra Magnus and looking around like mad as he tried to figure out where the noise had come from. Ultra Magnus on the other hand was blushing like mad to have the young mech pressed up against him like that. His Spark was pulsing a little fast now and he was trying to make sure his servos did not suddenly grab certain parts of the young mech's body.
The two ninja bots watched as Ultra Magnus tried to gently push Optimus away whilst the young mech continued to look around with a panicked look in his wide open optics.
'O-Optimus...I think it was just that piece of tree that fell just there,' stammered the elder mech.
Optimus however did not relax. He looked around the forest like mad, watching anything and everything that moved. Questions started running through his CPU. What made the branch fall? Was someone up there? Was it Megatron? Was he there? Watching them? He had his scanners on high alert and was trying to detect any other life forms around them. Fear had taken control and he was shaking like mad. He didn't even realize that he was clutching Ultra Magnus's sides like mad which was making small dents upon his armor. The elder mech winced as the young mech's grip on him tightened and he could feel his Spark pulsing like mad within his chassis.
'Optimus could you...um...let me go?'
Although he did secretly enjoy feeling the young mech's servos on him they were holding him a bit too tight. Once the young mech realized what he was doing he quickly let go and stepped back. He was still a little shaky and he was still looking around in fear.
'I-I'm sorry sir! I just thought...that...um...I didn't hurt you? Did I?'
As Ultra Magnus reassured the young mech that he was fine, the two ninja bot's watched confused with Optimus's behavior. Prowl was a little worried now. Optimus would never get freaked out from a falling branch. He was looking around with wide open and frantic optics. He was twitching slightly and his scanners were once again on high alert. He had gone from calm and relaxed right back to paranoid and worried. What was wrong with him? Why did he react like that?
'Optimus is acting rather strange, don't you think?'
'Well yeah...maybe he just woke up on the wrong side of the berth or something?'
Prowl didn't think so. There was no way that waking up on the wrong side of the berth would affect the young Autobot's mood like that. There had to be something wrong with Optimus he wasn't telling anyone. He was acting very strange and Prowl could see that there was something there that was making the young mech act so strange. But what was it? What was he trying to hide? Why didn't he try to solve the problem...whatever it was. He decided to keep a close optic on the young mech's behavior so he could try and figure out what was wrong with him.
As Optimus tried to calm himself he looked down at the branch and noticed that it was a strong and sturdy branch. He didn't know a lot about the organic world and its plant life but he knew that trees were manufactured to be strong and sturdy. It didn't fall off naturally...it looked like someone had kicked it off. There was no way an organic animal could have done that...meaning...
'Optimus shall we continue?'
Optimus flinched upon hearing he name being called out and looked up to see Ultra Magnus looking at him with a concerned expression. The elder mech did not seem to worry about the fallen piece of tree and wanted to continue their trek. Optimus nodded and started to follow the taller mech once again but this time he was looking around like mad. Someone was following them...he knew it...he could feel it in his Spark. Was it Megatron? Was he waiting for the right time to strike? Was he up there...watching him...with those terrible red optics...using them to stare at his body...frag...fragfragfragfragfrag...he had to get out of here!
'Y-you know Ultra Magnus there r-really isn't anything else to see up here!' he stammered, flinching when he saw something move out of the corner of his optics.
'Oh come now Optimus...I was told there was a road made entirely out of H2O around here somewhere! That is something I really want to have a look at.'
Ultra Magnus wasn't going to let Optimus get away that easily. He wanted to spend more time with him up here. It did sadden him though that the young mech wanted to leave. Was he not enjoying himself? Did he hate being near him or something? He was going to have to try harder with him but as he looked over his shoulder he noticed that Optimus was still scanning the area like mad. He didn't think that something like that would make him this jumpy.
The young mech himself gritted his denta's as Ultra Magnus refused to leave. There was someone else here besides them and already he could see those red optics burning into his very being. When he heard a bush rustle he flinched again but it was just a small organic mouse thing. He kept trying to tell himself that as long as he was with Ultra Magnus he would be fine but he had this terrible feeling that someone was right behind him. Looking over his shoulder he suddenly noticed a shadow dart through the treetops and he almost froze on the spot. Something was up there, something not organic and now fear had taken complete control. He looked around the trees frantically, trying to see where that shadow went. Was it the Decepticon leader?
'Optimus?'
He was knocked out of his trance when he heard Ultra Magnus call out to him. He had walked up ahead and Optimus suddenly felt afraid when he realized how far away he was from the taller and more powerful mech. As long as he was with Ultra Magnus he would be safe. Megatron wouldn't dare fight him...but what if he brought back up? What if he brought the other Decepticons to have some fun with him? No...stop thinking like that! He quickly chased after the Autobot Commander, still looking around in fear that a large black servo would just grab him when he wasn't looking and pull him into the darkness. Optimus found that his frame was starting to heat up again and his vents were inhaling the cool air even faster than they normally did. His vision got hazy for a moment and he felt dizzy as panic too control. His Spark was pulsing like mad and he continued to look around in fear that the Decepticon was trying to sneak up behind him. Someone was there...he could feel it.
'Oh my...what happened here?'
Optimus looked up upon hearing Ultra Magnus's query and he froze. Everything had suddenly gone silent and he went from an uncomfortable hot to a chilling cold. Time had stopped and all he could feel was the frantic pulsing of his panicking Spark. No...no...how did he get here? How the frag did he get back here? As he stood there shaking on the spot Ultra Magnus stood in front of a large boulder that looked like something had been smashed against it. The elder mech was trying to figure out what sort of organic could of caused this type of damage to such a solid material and didn't notice how scared Optimus was right now. The young mech himself looked around in complete fear and panic.
'No...no...how did we...oh no.'
He didn't know how but he was back in that clearing...that clearing where Megatron...where he...oh Primus. Looking down at the ground he could see that the rain from the other day had washed away the fluids and dents but he could still make out the claw marks he had made in the dirt. Memories started attacking him as he found himself reliving those terrible events from that terrible night. He gripped his helm and whimpered as he was assaulted again and again with those terrible painful memories. He could feel those large servos gripping him until they burnt his sensitive frame. He could hear that cruel laughter that filled his audios and drowned up the sounds of the woodland around him. He was surrounded...surrounded by those touches, laughs and voices.
'I will make you suffer...how does it feel Autobot?...you are so tight...hold still you little piece of slag...bite it and I'll rip your jaw off...alone...helpless...how does it feel?...this is far from over little Autobot...take it...TAKE IT...YOU DESERVE IT...!'
He couldn't take it anymore. The sensations had taken control and he couldn't keep his balance. It felt like Megatron was there, holding him and speaking into his audios, his fangs biting down onto him and his talons digging into his armor. The poor young thing felt like he was being engulfed by the Warlord's very shadow. He suddenly felt a powerful surge of energy erupt from his Spark and his tanks began to react violently. No! He couldn't empty his tanks here in front of the Autobot Commander! Holding his lips he bolted from the area to find a secluded space to purge his tanks. As he ran Ultra Magnus looked up and wondered why the frag did Optimus suddenly run off?
'Optimus!' he called out as he proceeded to follow him.
As Ultra Magnus ran off to follow the younger mech, Jazz and Prowl hopped out of the trees and watched them go. Jazz was confused at the whole situation. Why did Optimus suddenly run off like that? Prowl was also confused but he was more curious about what had caused that large dent in the boulder. No organic animal could of caused that. He also noticed that even though the rain had hidden some of it he noticed that there were some faint energy signatures here and there. Did something happen here? Did some Decepticons come out here to hone in on their battle skills? That couldn't be right. Optimus said that there was no Decepticon activity up here.
Before he could dwell on it any further Jazz suddenly stepped forward and pouted angrily.
'Dammit what the frag is wrong with that mech? I'm tryin' to hook 'em up and he's running off like some paranoid protoform! C'mon Prowlie, we'll loose 'em!'
Prowl sighed but listened to his fellow ninja bot and chased after the two mechs.
Optimus moaned as he hid behind a large tree and emptied his tanks once again. Prowl would be upset if he found out that he was throwing up his oils and waste fluids all over the forest floor but right now he couldn't give a dam. He sighed as he spat out the last few drops and looked down into the oily puddle where he could see his own reflection. He gazed into himself and saw how much he had changed. His optics were tired and dull. His pale blue face had gone even paler than before. He had changed so much since that night. He could no longer see the promising, strong and determined young mech full of hopes and dreams that he used to be. He now looked weak, sick, and pathetic. He had nothing to look forward to. He no longer had any hopes or dreams. He had nothing. Nothing to hold onto. Nothing at all. Megatron had taken them all.
'Dammit all,' he choked as he wiped his lips.
This wasn't fair. What had he done to deserve this? He wanted to protect the weak, defend his home world, stop the evil Decepticons and spend his life with someone who could love him...didn't that make him a good mech? All he wanted to do was do good things! All of his intentions were good and not once did he give in to the temptation of sin and evil. So...why was this happening to him? What the frag did he do to thrown down this terrible road of fate? Did the wheels of destiny find it amusing to torture his life? Was his whole life nothing more than a torturous trial with no hope in sight?
'It's not fair...it's not fragging fair.'
As he continued to gaze into that pool of oil with his dull optics he suddenly heard movement and he froze. For a split second he thought that it was the Decepticon Warlord coming up behind him. However the movement was shortly followed by a familiar voice.
'Optimus? Optimus Prime, where did you go?'
He sighed with relief. It was just Ultra Magnus. Standing back up he kicked a large pile of earth onto the puddle of oil and walked round the tree to see the Autobot Commander looking around with a worried expression imprinted on his face. Once he spotted Optimus he sighed with relief but he suddenly looked annoyed.
'Optimus Prime, why did you just run off like that without informing me where you were going?'
The young mech flinched when Ultra Magnus used a harsh tone and he tried to find a good reason why he ran off from his Commander.
'Well you see sir...I...I thought I...well...I didn't mean to upset you but-...'
Before Optimus could continue his excuse Ultra Magnus suddenly sighed and rested his hand upon the young mech's shoulder. Looking up he saw that the Autobot Commander now looked both sad and confused.
'Optimus...can I please ask you something?'
Up in the trees Jazz suddenly winced. This wasn't part of the plan. The Autobot Commander was about to ask Optimus a personal question whilst the young mech was uncomfortable. This wasn't a good time to ask him something like that! What was Ultra Magnus going to ask him? Was he going to blow the whole thing? He wanted to jump down and intervene but he couldn't for he didn't want to blow his cover. Instead he climbed over to another tree that was right above the two mechs and tried to listen in to what Ultra Magnus was saying.
Optimus himself looked up at the Autobot Commander. He had never seen Ultra Magnus like this before. The Commander was always so calm and stoic, never showing any emotion unless he had to and gave the impression that he was both strong and powerful. However now he looked nervous, worried and a little weak in the knees for some reason. What was he going to ask him? In fact why would Ultra Magnus want to ask him anything? He didn't think it had anything to do with the organic world so what was it? Ultra Magnus made a small cough and in a small voice asked,
'Optimus...do you hate me?'
Jazz slapped his face and uttered a small moan whilst Optimus looked up at his Commander completely surprised by the sudden question.
'W-what do you mean, sir?'
Ultra Magnus frowned and it looked like he was blushing a little as he explained.
'W-well...I had you expelled from the Autobot Academy and made you a Space bridge Repair bot, a role that will never help advance your career! I mean I can see why you would hold a grudge against me but as the Magnus I had no choice. I was following the rules and regulation of the disciplinary code. If it were up to me I would of had you suspended for a vorn and have you re-enlisted with your rank along with Sentinel. You did break a rule about exploring an off limit organic world and you did loose a promising cadet but I know that it wasn't your fault and that you did try everything in your power to save your friends...but...do you hate me for it?'
Optimus looked up at Ultra Magnus completely shocked from what he had just heard. He had never seen this side of the Autobot Commander before. In fact he didn't think that anyone has ever seen this side of Ultra Magnus before. However what shocked him the most was what Ultra Magnus had asked him! Did he hate him? He never really thought about it before. In a way he should be holding a grudge against him since he was the one who made it official that he was no longer a part of the Autobot Academy...but...he was just doing what he had to do...it wasn't like he wanted to do it. He did tell Optimus once a long time ago he believed he was a promising cadet and that he had high hopes for him. He even remembered how disappointed he looked when he expelled him. Now here he wanted to know if Optimus hated him for it.
As Ultra Magnus waited for an answer from the younger mech Optimus looked up at him and saw that the elder mech looked anxious. Was he really concerned about how Optimus thought about him?
'I...I don't hate you for it sir...I mean you were doing what you had to do and it was all my fault that I lost a promising cadet and good friend...and even though it isn't the greatest job in all of Cybertron you did help me get some sort of work. If you didn't I would of been working in some dead end job down a downtown back alley back on Cybertron. I owe you more than anything for helping me get a decent job...I don't hate you at all for it.'
Ultra Magnus suddenly relieved but tensed when Optimus suddenly asked,
'B-but...why did you want to know that?'
The Autobot Commander winced as he tried to find a good excuse without hinting about his interest in the young mech.
'O-oh...well...it's just that...even though I am the Commander of the Autobot Forces and you are a Prime, Captain of a Repair bot crew...I...I want us to be friends. Good friends. I mean one day you'll be able to re-enter the Autobot Academy and become a part of the Elite Guard and maybe even work with me...and other Elite Guard members. I just want us to be good friends Optimus. I don't want you to see me as the Magnus but as a friend...if that is OK with you?'
Optimus was completely surprised by what Ultra Magnus had just asked him. Even Jazz who was right above them was impressed with what the Autobot Commander had just said. It wasn't like he was asking him to be his mate or something. He was starting nice and slow...he just asked Optimus to be his good friend and nothing more...for the moment. He just looked down at the pair of them and prayed that Optimus would accept. The young mech was still a little shocked from what the Commander had just asked him. What should he do? It did sound a little strange but he did see the sincere look in the elder mech's optics...but...why did he want him to be his friend? What was so special about him? Then again...maybe becoming friends with Ultra Magnus would help better their relationship...and maybe make him feel a little better...maybe.
'Well...I would like-...'
Before Optimus could finish he suddenly heard something move right above them and he froze. What was that? Was it an organic creature or something? Ultra Magnus heard it too and he looked up wondering what it was. The moment Optimus saw the surprised expression on the Commander's face he suddenly feared the worse. Was...was the Decepticon Warlord right above them? Was he up there, looking down at them and waiting for the right time to strike? He suddenly detected a small energy trace coming from right above where he was standing. It was faint but it was definitely Cybertronian! From the look from Ultra Magnus's face it looked like he recognized whoever it was up there behind him. Was it Megatron? Was he up there...right now...oh no...nononononononononononono!
Before Ultra Magnus could even say anything Optimus suddenly pulled out his axe and making a panicked cry he spun round and smashed against the tree behind him. The axe hit the tree with a thunderous smack and almost split the sturdy plant in two. Ultra Magnus had to jump back when the young mech suddenly attacked the organic plant. Up in the tree Jazz yelped as he lost his balance and he fell, hitting the ground with a loud thud. Optimus almost attacked the falling mech but when he saw the flash of white he was horrified to see the ninja bot Elite Guard sprawled on the ground and moaning in pain.
What the frag was he doing there? Why was he hiding up in the tree? Was he spying on them or something? He looked down at Jazz who continued to moan in pain and then looked back to Ultra Magnus who equally looked horrified. Ultra Magnus himself could not believe that the ninja bot he thought he trusted decided to tag along on their little trip. Prowl decided to remain hidden but he could not help but moan in disappointment when Jazz snapped a small branch which alerted the two mechs of his presence. Now he was lying on the ground with leaves falling onto his body and trying to sit back up.
Jazz winced as he sat back up and massaged his aching neck. He looked up at the two mechs and made an uneasy chuckle.
'Er...hey there Optimus...Big Bot...fancy seein' ya two out here!'
'You knew we were coming out here, Jazz,' growled Ultra Magnus folding his arms.
'Y-yeah...but me an' Prowl were training somewhere else an' I guess we somehow wound up in the same place ya two were walkin' and all!'
Ultra Magnus didn't buy it at all. He should of known Jazz was going to be following him, keeping tabs on his moves and such. It did make sense and he should of realized it when Jazz said he was going to stay out of their way...normally every time he said something he would do the exact opposite! The moment he saw him up in the tree he couldn't believe it. After he told him that he was going to leave them alone! He may be a good solider but when it came to personal matters he was as nosey as a giddy sectary femme. He was so going to give him an audio full later.
As Jazz stood back up, Optimus suddenly felt sick once again. His CPU was feeling worn out and he couldn't handle anymore of these surprises. Every time he heard a noise he would overreact terribly and it was wearing him out. He just wanted to go back to the base and rest in his room. Everything around him was spinning and he just wanted to leave. He didn't care if he would get in trouble for leaving the Magnus in the forest, he just wanted to go! Placing his axe back in it's subspace he stepped back and made a small excuse on why he had to leave.
'I-I'm sorry sir...I have t-to return to base...paperwork and all...I'm sure Jazz c-can help you with your exploration...goodbye.'
The Autobot Commander looked up, horrified that Optimus was about to leave and he didn't even get an answer for his question. Before he could stop him Optimus turned and sprinted off, heading back to the dirt track where he transformed and drove off leaving the Autobot Commander alone with the ninja bot. Ultra Magnus sighed and glared down at Jazz.
'Thanks a lot,' he hissed and stomped off.
Jazz winced as the Autobot Commander left him there in a huff. Ultra Magnus was going to hate him for a good while but that didn't mean he was going to stop his mission to get those two mechs together! He just had to use his charm and soon the Commander would be come back to the ninja bot needing his help. Standing back up he looked up at Prowl who was frowning down at him. He just chuckled and wiped the dirt off his body, thinking that Prowl was annoyed that he fell off the tree. However Prowl was now really concerned. The way Optimus reacted when he thought someone was behind him. The panicked look in his optics, the way his body trembled, the frantic pulsing of his Spark...he had been afraid...but Prowl could never imagine the young mech to ever be afraid. The real question was, what was he afraid of?
Upon returning to the base Optimus walked through the corridors, planning to return to his quarters and do some paperwork to take his mind off what had just happened to him today. He felt like an idiot. He was acting like a paranoid Sparkling who jumped at every single movement he saw and every single sound he heard. Ultra Magnus must of noticed and took pity on him for his feeble behavior...why else would he ask him to be his friend? Then again he did seem sincere about the whole thing...but why had Jazz been following them? A sudden thought suddenly struck him like lightning!
Did...did they know something? Was it possible that they knew...what happened to him? He froze on the spot, his optics widened with horror. Is that why Ultra Magnus demanded him to go back to the forest? Was that why the elder mech treated him kindly? Was that why Jazz was following them? So he could keep track of his behavior? Were they just testing him? To confirm their beliefs?
'No...no one knows...they don't know!' growled Optimus, trying to convince himself that there was no way that anyone knew what happened that night.
He clenched his fists and continued to head back to his quarters. No one knew...he was sure of that. As he walked on he suddenly noticed that his engine was growling. He blinked and checked his fuel supply. He was surprised to find that his fuel supply was almost depleted. How could that be? He drank half an oil-can this morning, the amount he normally took in every day. What was wrong with him? Maybe it was because he had been purging a lot or something. Sighing he decided to grab another can, hoping Ratchet wouldn't notice. The medic bot was very strict on the rations of oil cans ever since Bulkhead downed a whole supply within cycles. However he doubted he would notice a single can missing.
'It's just one can, he won't mind.'
Taking the can he headed back to his chambers and began to slowly sip the oil. He felt incredibly tired and was worn out from what he did this morning. He did wonder why he was so tired as he entered his room and sat down at his desk. A trek in the woods was nothing for a mech like him. Maybe it was because he wasn't recharging properly and he just needed to rest some more. Or maybe it was because he was super stressed about returning to that Primus forsaken place. The young mech yawned as he flicked through the data pads. For some reason the question that Ultra Magnus asked him kept popping back into his mind.
'I don't want you to see me as the Magnus but as a friend...if that is okay with you?'
Why did he want him of all mechs to be his friend? He was just some Academy washout that nobody wanted to know. He was a disgrace and was the lowest of the low. However the Magnus...Ultra Magnus wanted him to be his friend. Not only that but he wanted to know if he hated him. Why? He expelled plenty of mechs, gave many of them bad reports and even had some imprisoned when they went one step too far. He was used to being hated by these mechs. So why should he care if Optimus hated him? Not that he did but...why did he want to know? The elder mech said he respected Optimus and had high hopes for him...before he got expelled. Why? Why did Ultra Magnus ask him to be his friend? There was something else there but he couldn't see since he was so stressed at the time.
Yawning again he signed a few of the data pads that needed signing, quickly sorted the rest and then leaned back in his chair with a sigh. He felt so tired...and weak...maybe a good recharge will make him feel better. He just hoped that in this one he won't see that face...or those optics. As he slowly closed his optics he wondered one last time...why did Ultra Magnus want him to be his friend?