Finally, we get a glimpse into Praxis' mind as we continue. It's the day after the trials. Praxis has learned of what Optimus did. Has his nephew's actions changed things between father and son?

Of course, Praxis obeyed Kilynx when he called for him. Like many occasions, Praxis dropped what he was doing and did as his brother instructed. He always did. Kilynx was his elder brother, Praxis loved his brother.

Although he had to admit he was disappointed he wasn't going to see Areya today as they had planned. He'd been looking forward to seeing her all week. He knew what they were doing was wrong. But he loved Areya and he couldn't stop himself from loving her despite the fact that she was bonded to his brother.

She told him of what Optimus did at the trials yesterday. Praxis couldn't have been any prouder of the young mech. That was quite the accomplishment for someone so young. Even more astonishing was Optimus' little friend, Bumblebee came in second place in the individual trials and he was part of the reason he and Optimus received first place in the team trials.

Praxis had to admit the two friends did make a good team. If fate hadn't been against the pair they could have both been soldiers in Sentinel Prime's army. Kilynx issn't going to allow his sons to ever be in Sentinel's army. And it's highly unlikely Bumblebee would ever be recruited into the army Kilynx was trying to build because Bee's parents' allegiances are to Sentinel Prime.

The army.

Praxis didn't believe his brother's way was the best for Cybertron. He had a feeling if his brother's plans actually came to be then Cybertron would be headed into a civil war. And then, Praxis was going to be forced to join sides. He didn't want to. His loyalties were always to his brother.

But because of his relationship with Areya, Praxis has seen the wisdom in Sentinel Prime's ways. She is close friends with many of his officers and there is no question as to where her loyalties lie. For this reason, Praxis worries for her. He's afraid what may become of her when the war finally does come because she is a strong willed femme who will not follow her bonded down the path of he's taking.

Then there are her sons. What of them?

Its obvious Megatron is being groomed to follow in his father's footsteps. The young mech is as arrogant as Kilynx and clings to every word his father speaks to him. Praxis, knew there was nothing he could do to save Megatron.

Praxis had thought he might be able to save Optimus from his brother's fate. However, after Optimus' accomplishments at the Youngling Trials, he has inadvertently put himself down the same path as his elder brother.

This troubled Praxis deep within his spark. He loved Optimus as if he were his own son. From that day when Optimus was a tiny sparkling and called him father, thinking Praxis was Kilynx, the youngling as had a special place in Praxis' spark. He had often wished the little mech was his son although he has never voiced the desire to Areya.

Perhaps, if Optimus were his son things would have been better.

But Praxis cannot afford to live in fantasies. So, he watches over his beloved nephew as best as he can and prays his brother doesn't destroy Optimus' spirit by turning him into a killer.

"Commander Kilynx, is there anything I can help you with?"

"I've come for my son."

Praxis, at his brother's side, noticed the nervous look on Optimus' faceplates as he glanced over at them.

"Optimus is taking a test. Can this wait?"

"I'm afraid not. Optimus, come with us please."

Optimus hesitated, looking from his father to his teacher.

"He can retake the test," Kilynx smiled. "I'll bring him by early tomorrow morning before school begins. Will that be satisfactory?"

"Of course," the young femme teacher responded. "Optimus, you may go with your father and uncle."

Praxis smiled warmly at Optimus trying to hide his own fears as the youngling obediently came over to them. He was unsure of why Kilynx was here to collect the mech. They walked in silence, yet Praxis remained quietly observant.

Then it all suddenly became clear to Praxis when Kilynx extended a rare show of affection by rubbing the top of Optimus' head after they climbed into the transport vehicle. His brother was going to do anything it took to ensure his son's trust even though it was obvious why Optimus competed in the Trials.

Praxis despaired as his brother lifted his son onto his lap. He knew how much Optimus wanted his father's approval and affections. And that's exactly what Kilynx was doing.

"I want to apologize to you, Optimus," Kilynx spoke softly. "I do love you. I do want you as my son. What I said…that I didn't want you…that was unforgivable. My only excuse was that I was angry. We tend to say stupid things when we're angry. I'm not asking you to forgive me. But I would like us to move forward…together."

A gush of tears flowed from Optimus' optics. His small hands clung to his father as the trembled in relief to finally have what he wanted. Kilynx held his son closely. But Praxis could see the evil triumphant smirk on his brother's face.

Praxis' spark clenched in fear. If he could, he would have yanked Optimus from his father's arms and taken him away to safety. Instead, he sat there and remained quiet and put on his own charade of loyal brother.

"I've been unfair to you, Optimus," Kilynx continued with his charade. "With the determination you've always shown you will one day be the strongest mech on Cybertron."

"Really father?" Optimus asked, his optics wide with excitement.

"Yes. But being the strongest doesn't mean you're the best. You must also be cunning, agile, and wise. You fight too recklessly. You must always be in control of yourself."

The transport stopped and they exited the vehicle. Kilynx took hold of Optimus' hand.

"Come…you're uncle and I will teach you how to fight properly."

Optimus flashed the biggest and brightest smile Praxis had ever seen. He himself was forced to smile as brightly back while inside, he trembled in fear at what lay ahead for Areya's innocent and sweet Optimus.