Before I start on the next chapter, I want to let you all know that I've already added a new story to my TFP Season 3. This one is called 'Prime' and it focuses on the team trying to rescue Optimus. There are going to be a lot of surprises in the coming chapters and will keep you to the edge of your seat. Trust me when I say this, this is one story you won't wanna miss. Now I've already got two chapters into that story, but it's very popular already as the hits and reviews keep on coming. You got to check it out yourself. Now in this story, it was a good one too. Six reviews and 144 hits. Pretty fair I say. I hope I get more on this chapter. Moving on now. For this next chapter of TFP: John and Elsa, John Darby and Elsa de Sica meet the Autobots as he learned about his secret Jack kept for him. At the same time, John talked about the agency and the dark secret it's keeping from the public eye. What will the reaction of both Jack and John be? This could get a little juicy.
Disclaimer: I don't own Transformers Prime or Gunslinger Girl
Chapter Ten: Secrets Revealed
It was a nice quiet day in the Nevada desert as the sun started to set in the quaint town of Jasper. On the freeway, Jack and John were driving their bikes down the road, reaching to someplace private. But this ride was a little silent due to what happened to them recently. Their father/son bonding moment was pretty much ruined by the Decepticons own assassin Airachnid as they tried their best in getting away from her. But the moment they entered the military depot, truths were revealed as John saw Airachnid and Arcee transforming out of their respective vehicles and duke it out against each other. But then Jack and Arcee saw Elsa revealing her weapon and fought against the spider con herself. After a rough fight, the femme and the ice queen worked together and defeated the wench and nearly flattened her with the water tower of the depot, only for her to escape easily. But now that the truths were revealed Arcee and Jack need to take John and Elsa to someplace private so explanations should be made. As they were driving, Jack called his mother on the cell phone and talked to her about something.
Jack: "Hey mom. Are you busy in the hospital today?" … "Good. Cause I need you at the 'club' immediately. Someone has been hurt and would need your medical expertise." … "No, no, no. It's not that serious. Just a quick check up is all. Just get there as soon as you can, okay? Bye."
As soon as he hung up the phone, he placed it in his pocket and sighed to himself.
Jack: "Mom is so going to have a heart attack when she sees dad."
Arcee heard his worry and eased him.
Arcee: "Take a few deep breaths Jack. I'm sure June seeing her husband is nothing compared to what we saw. Never really thought a human girl could take on a Con like Airachnid."
Jack nodded and felt a little disgusted by this.
Jack: "I just can't believe that my dad kept this from me since he came back. Why did he do this to me? I thought we Darby's never keep secrets from each other.
There was a little laugh from the femme and tried to explain something to him.
Arcee: "Jack? You kept a secret about me and the others from your mom before she got captured and now from your dad. I don't think anyone in the family would keep secrets for THAT long. I'm sure he will explain to us about Elsa's behavior when we get to base.
Jack just remained silent as he uttered a few words.
Jack: "Yeah… He better…"
As that conversation went on, John as behind Jack and Arcee as he was following them to wherever they were going. He was incredibly quiet throughout the trip ever since that bot beat down at the depot. There were so many questions running in his head. Questions like who was that female robot? What was that fight about? Are there more of them? Why did Jack keep this secret from him? Does June know about this? So many questions, and no answers. He's just hoping that wherever they're going would reveal all. As he was riding, Elsa was sitting in the back of the Harley and was concerned with her handler. He was silent the whole time and who could blame him. He saw two robots that transformed into vehicles, battling each other to the death. Worse yet, he was nearly killed by the spider bot. If it hadn't been for her, he would've gotten killed in an instant. Still, she was a little interested in that female robot that protected them. Sure Jack lied to her about his bike, but seeing her in action kind made her feel humbled. Maybe where they were going should explain some things that are left behind. But with John, it would be a little different. So she decided to talk to him about it.
Elsa de Sica: "John? Is everything okay? You were quiet the whole ride."
John peeked back to her girl and could tell that she was worried. Looking back to the road he responded a little quietly.
John Darby: "I'm fine Elsa. It's just that I'm a little on edge after what happened."
Elsa de Sica: "You mean when we saw Jack's bike transformed into a female robot and fighting the helicopter that turned into another robot? Or the fact that you nearly got killed by that monstrosity?"
He was a little silent about that until he responded.
John Darby: "Yeah… You could say that. I just can't believe my son lied to me about this. I always thought he was a trusting son I could count on. But now… Now I don't know what to believe in."
Elsa remained silent until she spoke to him about that.
Elsa de Sica: "John, you lied to your son about me and the agency. So he's not the only one that was keeping secrets. I'm sure that where we're going, we'll get our answers."
John Darby: "I just hope you're right Elsa. Because if he doesn't explain himself, he will be good as grounded."
Soon enough the two bikes rode down the road and approached what appears to be a mountain in the middle to the desert, not far from the town. But as they were riding, Jack and Arcee approached a fork in the road and drove right past it, entering the desert plain again. John looked on and finds that a little strange. But he let it slide and went past the road as well. As soon as they passed it, he went next to Jack and asked about this.
John Darby: "Jack, are you sure we're going the right way?"
Jack turned to his dad and told him plain and simple.
Jack: "Don't worry dad; we know where we're going."
John turned straight to see them getting closer to the side of the mountain. He got a little nervous and thought that they were going to crash. But then, something else happened. The side of the mountain opened up and revealed a tunnel of some kind with lights turning on. John looked on and was surprised about this.
John Darby: "Well, that was interesting."
Arcee just laughed in the dashboard and responded by his sudden surprise.
Arcee: "You ain't seen nothing yet."
The two bikes entered the tunnel and drove through it. But the moment they reached the end of the tunnel, John and Elsa starred in total and utter belief.
John Darby: "Whoa…"
Leaving the tunnel, they were in a huge room with was filled with technology that looked more advance then before. Huge green screens were around the corner with a scaffolding of normal computer stations. There was a medical section of some kind on the other end with a strange looking chamber. And on one of the walls was a tunnel of some kind that has a dead end with arches around the tunnel. But that's not what shocked him. What shocked him the most are the occupants inside. There were huge robots within the room of different shapes, sizes, and colors. One at the controls had a red and white paint job and had a medium build. The other smaller then the last one and had a yellow paint job with a black stripe and car doors for wings. And the last one was a big and rounded with the color of green on his armor. But then he noticed some humans in what appears to be a lounge area. One was a young boy with a spiky hairdo and glasses while the other is a Japanese teenage girl with a black and pink hairdo of two pigtails and a ponytail in the back. The group heard the sound of engines coming in and turned to see not only Jack and Arcee returning unexpectedly, but also John and Elsa standing there with shocked expressions. But then they heard the sound of footsteps coming close to them and were getting louder after each step. They all turned to the left and had mouths completely agape at what they're seeing. Standing before them was a bot bigger then the others and had a red and blue paint job. He had a sternful look on his face and a strong expression. If he had to guess, John believes that he could be the leader of the group. The two slowly got off the Harley as Jack got off his. Once the boy got off of Arcee, she transformed and grew into her bipedal mode. John and Elsa watched in awe as she transformed and realized that she was a little kid compared to these behemoths. John watched and whistled to himself and was impressed by it all.
John Darby: "So son, this is the science fiction club you told me about huh?
Jack nodded and nervously laughed.
Jack: "Yeah… Pretty much."
There was a bit of silence within the room until the red and white bot began to speak up.
Ratchet: "Arcee, what's the meaning of this? Bringing in more humans into the base? Three is already enough for a crowd. Bringing in more could jeopardize everything!"
The femme turned to the medic and explained her reasons bringing John and Elsa in here.
Arcee: "Well Ratchet, I wouldn't have done that if it wasn't for Airachnid coming in unannounced."
Ratchet heard that and was shocked by those words.
Ratchet: "What?! You got ambushed by a Con. You would've just contacted the base and ask for back up."
Arcee: "If I did that, then Jack's father would be in too much of a shock for one day."
Ratch immediately looked down and realized who this person was.
Ratchet: "Wait, that's Jack's father?"
John cleared his throat and tried to introduce himself, trying to ignore the fact that he was trying to talk to these strange beings.
John Darby: "Yes… My name is Jonathan Darby and I'm Jack's dad. And if I were you, I would try to watch your words."
But as soon as he made those introductions, Miko heard that and immediately made a mad dash down the steps and right into John's face, bombarding him with questions.
Miko: "You're Jack's dad? Sweet! Welcome to Autobots HQ. I'm Miko! So what's your story? Are you really a soldier? Any cool places you've been to during your military days? How many bad guys did you kill?"
John was taken back by this and didn't have any time to answer any of them. Elsa consider that a threat and stepped in and had her arm up to protect her fratello. Miko looked at this young girl and almost forgot about her.
Miko: "Sorry, I didn't see you there. I'm Miko? What's your name?"
She extended her hand and was hoping for a handshake. But Elsa starred at her coldly and responded darkly.
Elsa de Sica: "My name is Elsa, Elsa de Sica. And if you go anywhere near John, you will regret it.
Miko looked at her strangely and didn't understand why she would threaten her like that. But Jack saw her in action and realized what the Japanese girl was going to get herself into. Quickly, he approached her and grabbed her arm, getting her away from the dangerous girl.
Jack: "Uh, Miko? I think it's wise not to get near her. Trust me."
Miko looked at the young teen and was really confused by this. But she let it slide and got away from the strange girl. Optimus then came in and told Arcee about her recent actions.
Optimus Prime: "While I admire your commitment with protecting Jack's father, I don't believe it was wise bringing him into this base after what he had seen."
The two-wheeler turned to him and clarified her actions.
Arcee: "Do I have a choice Optimus? I tried my best in loosing Airachnid but she kept on following. And the moment she transformed in front of Jack's father and Elsa, I had no other choice but to reveal Jack's secret. If that wretched con didn't arrive and tired to take me out, then John wouldn't have known about any of this. There was nothing I could do."
Optimus was about to say something until John turned to him and cleared his throat just to get some attention.
John Darby: "Excuse me. I could tell that you're in charge and I know you want to give Arcee a little insubordination. But I'm still a little confused by this as much as the next person. So can someone please explain to me what the HELL is going on around here? Who are you guys? Where am I? And why is my son hanging out with you?!"
There was a bit of silence within the room and the team knew that John wanted answers and he wanted them now. So being the leader, Optimus decided to be the first to speak up and answer his questions.
Optimus Prime: "I'm sorry if you were involved, but it was a matter of time before you suspected anything about us. But since you're here, I do believe explanations must be made. We are autonomous robotic organism from the planet, Cybertron, a planet that many light years from yours. But you can call us the Autobots. I am Optimus Prime, leader of the Autobots. This is Ratchet our field medic, Bumblebee our scout, and this is Bulkhead one of the former Wreckers. You already met our cyber ninja Arcee."
John turned to see each member of the team when the Prime made the introductions until he saw the femme that protected his family, giving a head tilt and a smile. John looked on with little hesitation and responded to the leaders words.
John Darby: "Yeah, Jack introduced me to her but in a different way. Though that still doesn't explain to me on why my son is with all of you to begin with, let alone the other kids around here. This Miko and… Who are you by the way?"
He turned to Raf; he came down to see John and Elsa and introduced himself.
Raf: "Hello Mr. Darby. I'm Rafael Jorge Gonzales Esquivel, but my friends call me Raf. It's nice to meet you."
John looked at the young boy strangely and remembered that name.
John Darby: "Esquivel huh? I remember that name. Is your mother's name Julia?"
Raf: "Yes, that's her."
John laughed a little and remember Raf's mother.
John Darby: "I remember her back when we were kids. She's always one tough cookie. Never thought that she would have a kid."
Raf: "Well, I'm just the youngest child she has for a HUGE family. Not really that easy to be noticed."
John's eyes were wide and didn't know that Ms. Esquivel could produce that many kids. But not as shocking as these huge robots that tower all around him. Shaking his head, he then looked around and wondered about something else.
John Darby: "So… Does anyone else know about your secret besides my son and these two kids?"
He looked towards Optimus for a bit more detail. But before he could explain it, there was a honk coming from the tunnel Jack and John came in. Looking down the tunnel, he noticed a red car entering the base. But what surprised him the most was that the person who came out of the car was his own wife, June.
June: "Jack, I'm here. So who's hurt?"
John's eyes were wide as he couldn't believe what he was seeing. His own wife, here, with these Autobots? He didn't know what to say except one word.
John Darby: "June?!"
The nurse heard that voice and couldn't believe that her husband was in the base.
June: "John? What are you doing here?"
John Darby: "Funny… I was going to ask the same thing to you."
June blinked her eyes and couldn't believe that her husband is in the base of all places. But she calmed down and explained her reason why she was there.
June: "Jack called. He told me that someone was hurt and I have to head to the base as quickly as I could. Don't tell me that you were the one that's injured?"
John felt a little embarrassed as he explained himself.
John Darby: "Something like that. I sort of got caught in the fight and got myself hurt. Still limping a little from my knee but my shoulder felt a little broken and my back is sore. I think I must've gotten a concussion too, but hard to tell being what I'm seeing around me."
June nodded and got serious, turning to his son for some help.
June: "Jack, get my medical bag from the back."
Jack nodded and rushed to the back seat to grab the medical bad from the car. As he was doing that, John turned to Optimus and was a little irate.
John Darby: "Okay… Having my son dragged in to this is one thing. But my WIFE!? That really takes the cake. So mind telling me what is going on around here."
There was a brief silence within the area as Optimus spoke up.
Optimus Prime: "Jonathan Darby, perhaps you would take a seat. This is going to be a long story."
John nodded and crossed his arms while Elsa stood next to him wanting to know the answers as well.
John Darby: "Good, cause I have all the time in the world."
An hour later, Optimus told John everything he need to know about the secrets Jack kept from him while he was sitting on the sofa with June checking up on him and Elsa sitting next to him. So far he told him about where they came from, the war that consumed their planet, the reason they are on Earth, and the talk about how the kids, including his son, got involved in their war. Even Jack had to give his dad some specific details if things got confusing on any of it, which was most of the time. Once the story was finished, John remained silent with an ice pack on his head, trying to process all of this.
John Darby: "Okay… I'll try to simplify it as I can. You're telling me that these robots, these Autobots, came from the planet Cybertron, thousands of light years away from our own. And the reason why they are here is not only for finding energon, their fuel source if I remember correctly, but also cause of a huge war that consumed the entire planet thanks to this other faction called Decepticons. Am I right?"
Optimus nodded in response, knowing that the Darby got the gist of it.
John Darby: "And if I'm getting this correctly, my son and the kids got dragged into this was because they encountered your guys and had no choice but to bring them in for protection."
The Autobot leader once again nodded. Jack's dad remained quiet about all of this and tries to process as much as he could. After thinking this through, he asked a question of his own.
John Darby: "So why do I feel that this that my son is acting like this is all too normal?"
The others looked on and could tell that he wasn't buying it at all.
Bulkhead: "Well… It's normal for us."
John turned to the Wrecker and returned on that comment.
John Darby: "Really? Well I don't find anything normal about this! It's bad enough my son got dragged into this. It's worse that my wife, June, is involved as well!"
June sighed to herself and explained her reason with the Autobots.
June: "In all of honesty John, I never knew any of this to begin with. That is until I was kidnapped by Airachnid."
John turned to his wife and was a little confused by that.
John Darby: "Airachnid?"
Arcee: "The Con that tried to melt you back at the depot. She's the same Con that tried to kill Jack and use his head as a sick trophy to her collection a while back."
John looked up to the femme and was shocked by this. Not only did he nearly got killed by the spider bot, but also his wife and son nearly got killed by her as well. Getting his head back, he sighed and just couldn't believe what he was hearing.
John Darby: "Great… Now my family is going to have a major case of arachnophobia."
Optimus sighed and reason with John from the situation.
Optimus Prime: "I understand your concern Jonathan, but please understand. The moment your family were caught up in our war, the Decepticons would target them and hunt them down. It is with our best interest that they are to be protected from the threat no matter what the cost."
John turned to the leader and argued with him about that.
John Darby: "Well, with all due respect Optimus, but if they should be protected by any threat, they should at least go to the authorities, or better yet the military. I mean, I can't have my family living with huge robots and take part in a huge intergalactic war!"
He got up but he cringed a little due to the fact he still was sore in a few places. June got him to sit back down and told him to relax.
June: "Careful now John, you still feeling the after effects of the impact."
John turned to her and smiled a little.
John Darby: "At least I know that you take good care of me sweetie. Still, are you sure you want to be staying with these robots. I'm concern about your safety and living with these things could be dangerous!"
June was about to say something, but that was until Jack, who was sitting close to the family, was a little angry about his father's little secret and decided to tell him about that.
Jack: "Oh really? Not as dangerous as a little girl shooting a rifle?"
There was a bit of silence within the base as the June looked to her son in a little confusion in her eyes.
June: "Jack? Where are you going with this?"
John turned to Jack too and realized what he's going to say. He tried to stop him from saying it, but Jack decided to say it anyways.
Jack: "Oh I'm sorry mom. Guess dad must've forgotten that Elsa here was using a rifle, pistol, and grenade launcher to take out Airachnid!"
Now that got everyone's attention, as they didn't know that Elsa was a soldier from the start.
Ratchet: "Wait a nano click. This Elsa fought Airachnid?"
The young teen turned to him and crossed his arms.
Jack: "You could say that. And she did that without mercy!"
There was an eerie calm within the command center until Optimus turned to Arcee for clarification.
Optimus Prime: "Arcee, is what Jack said is true?"
The two-wheeler looked at Optimus and nodded in response.
Arcee: "110% Optimus. I even saw her fighting with my own two optics. Never really thought a human girl would be that tough."
Prime remained silent for a few seconds before turning back to Jack's dad for an explanation.
Optimus Prime: "John, perhaps you would explain to us why Elsa managed to fight a Decepticon all by herself."
John looked at the leader intently and tried to open his mouth. But he was completely speechless and didn't know where to begin. Elsa notices his hesitance and told him that he doesn't have any choice.
Elsa de Sica: "Go ahead John. The secret is already out to begin with.
John remained quiet for a while until he turned to Elsa and agreed with her.
John Darby: "I suppose you're right Elsa. I suppose you're right."
Lying back on the sofa, he took a deep breath and begins his explanation.
John Darby: "Officially, the Social Welfare Agency is a government sponsored corporation that's in the business in saving lives. Our obligation is to give the heavily injured prosthetic limbs for them to recover and give them their normal existence. At least that's the little lie we tell to the media. The dark truth behind the SWA is that it's both an agency on the fringe of technology and an underground anti-terrorist organization that helps the government clean up Italy's dirty work."
The team heard what he was saying and slowly put the pieces together. Bulkhead, being the Wrecker that he is, figured it all out.
Bulkhead: "Anti-terrorist organization? You mean you guys actually fight against terrorists."
He turned to Bulk and explained about that.
John Darby: "You could say that. Al-Quida isn't the only terrorists that aren't the only threat within the world, let alone one you would hear in the news. Italy has its share of radicals in its cities. The Five Republican Faction, also known as the Padania, is a group made out of extremist and right-wing nationalists dedicated to the independence of Northern Italy and the opposition of globalization in that country. They want to control that country with their own world order and does everything in their play book to force the nation in surrendering from bombing threats, weapons smuggling, even the usual riots. The government tried everything they can to take them down, but their police force and military groups couldn't hold on their own. So in times of need, they turned to the Agency for assistance."
June then got up and asked what does this have to do with John and why would Elsa be involved.
June: "I still don't get why this has anything to do with you or Elsa."
John turned to his wife and didn't know if she's ready for what she and the others are going to see. Looking down at the medical kit on the table, he took out an iodine bottle and looked and his girl for a nod. Elsa looked right at the bottle he was holding and nodded back. Turning to the other way, the handler tossed the bottle and gave her the order.
John Darby: "Elsa, think fast!"
The bottle flew through the air and was high enough above Optimus. Elsa quickly got her hand into her holster and took her pistol out, aiming right at the bottle. The moment she pulled the trigger, the bullet flew out of the gun and sailed straight to her target, penetrating the bottle and breaking it into pieces right in mid air. The group looked on completely stunned, as they couldn't believe a young girl would shoot the bottle in the air with sheer accuracy. But for Jack and Arcee, they saw it first hand back at the depot and knew what she was capable of. John then turned to June, who was still in a state of shock and told her straight forward.
John Darby: "How's that for an answer?"
He then turned to Team Prime and continued with his explanation.
John Darby: "The prosthetic limbs the agency says in their ads is more then just prosthetic. The patients we use are given cybernetic implants to help improve their bodies. These implants include synthesized muscles and carbon fiber frames, resulting in heightened strength and reflexes as well as high resilience to damage and pain. Other upgrades include the strengthening of the bones, synthetic skin, and heightening their sights, smells, and hearing. In short, we created cybernetic soldiers for war."
There was some shock that the agency could create cyborgs, but they still need to know why Elsa is like one.
Arcee: "That still doesn't explain why your girl here is involved with the cybernetics."
Bumblebee: (Yeah. Why does this Elsa girl is a cyborg?)
Too bad John doesn't understand what Bumblebee said as he was speaking his beeps and whirls. So Raf translates it for him.
Raf: "Bee wants to know why she's a Cyborg."
John turned to the young boy and was amazed that he would understand that bot. So he explained it as much as he could.
John Darby: "As far as I'm aware of, the Cyborgs are little girls with age ranges from seven to ten. Maybe even younger and older depending on the cybernetics. It's a whole lot complicated."
That was a far more shocker then the demonstration with Elsa as June was a little bewildered.
June: "They use little girls? They turned them into soldiers?! Why would they do something like that!? Shouldn't the parents know anything about this?"
John turned to his wife and answered her questions.
John Darby: "It's easier said then done June. Besides Rico's parents, all the other girls all went through different paths before the Agency. Some were orphans while others had suffered fatal diseases that would have killed them. And that's not the worse of it. The rest of the girls were dragged and taken into human trafficking at a young age and 15% of those people get forced into these smut films that would kill them. It's not a pretty sight, let me assure you."
And eerie silence filled the room as the group was horrified by this as Ratchet had a disgusted look on his face.
Ratchet: "By the All Spark… And I thought the Decepticons were that cruel to sparklings. Even if these girls came from different paths in lives, what about these cybernetic implants that were installed in them. Being a medic myself, implanting parts of the body could lead to some serious trauma, even if they are that young."
John looked towards the medic and responded to his concern.
John Darby: "True, but the agency has a way in fixing that little dilemma. See, after the girls survived the implantation procedure they go into what the medical staff called conditioning. It's somewhat of a brainwashing technique that keeps the girls in line. It mostly removes all past memories, including the bad ones, and makes the girls loyal to their handlers, teachers that have military and police backgrounds. It is then that we handlers train these girls into a wide variety of fields whether it be soldiers, assassins, spies, bomb diffusers, you name it, we do it. The one major side effect though is that the conditioning shortens the patience life span, meaning that the girls would only live up to their teen years, if not less."
Once again, another silence filled the room as the two-wheeler was liven with all of this.
Arcee: "You mean to tell me that these girls won't make it past twenty? I think this Agency is a much worse as the people that treated these girls like toys."
The Darby looked to her and told her truthfully.
John Darby: "Hey! No one said it would be easy! These girls have been through too much before the agency found them. So a normal life from the pain would make them feel better, if not for a short time. They are trying to create a second generation of Cyborgs to extend their life expectancy. Though I don't know if it would succeed, giving that the conditioning is still too much of a risk. And some handlers do keep the conditioning to a minimum since they don't want their girls to die too soon."
Arcee: "And what about Elsa? Does she worry that she would die knowing that she won't live through her teen years?"
John turned to Elsa and didn't have much of an expression. Just plain silence…
John Darby: "As far as I'm concerned, Elsa doesn't have to worry about dieing. She'd been loyal to me since we met and has followed any order imaginable. So basically she understands the risk."
June listened to all of this and was shocked by what John said. The fact that the agency is actually an anti terrorist organization is one thing, but having little girls turned into cybernetic super soldiers with a short life span, that's a whole different story. But she wanted to know more about this agency and asked her husband about it.
June: "But I don't get it. Why would the agency hide the fact that these girls are potential killers in front of the public? Shouldn't they just admit that they are hiding this dark secret?"
John sighed and turned to his wife for an explanation.
John Darby: "It's never really that easy June. The Social Welfare Agency is research facility that acts as a counter terrorist base of operations and it heavily funded by the government with soldiers composed of cyborg children that can kill without hesitation. Yet to the public, we are just a charity group that helps the needy with medical treatments of prosthetic limbs to give people a second chance in life. If the media finds out about the agency's dark secrets, there will be questions concerning the government. There will be accusations that could lead to a shut down of the agency entirely! Worse yet, the R.F. would know of the Welfare Agency's location and attack us without warning. So we have to take some drastic steps to prevent anyone from knowing the truth behind the agency."
Raf heard that and remembered about him trying to breach into the agency's own records when Ratchet was doing research per Arcee's request.
Raf: "Wait a minute… So that's why I can't gain access to the Social Welfare's records. It's because of what you said, right Mr. Darby?"
John turned to the hacker and explained about it.
John Darby: "You could say that. Sometimes the Republican Factions has the tendency to hire some hackers to break into our system to see what we were hiding. But we're always one step ahead of them with the latest firewall software and security programs. Not even the most experience of hackers can't break into our defenses. Wait… You know how to hack into a computer?"
Raf shrugged his shoulders and responded.
Raf: "Well I may be a little young, I am quite a genius at my age. My father is an expert in computing and I always hang around with him when I was younger. I've been learning on how to handle computers at the start of five. Heck, I sort of skipped a couple of grads to reach high school status being how smart I am."
John was amazed that a kid that young could try to hack into the most advance security that he had pretty much an open mouth the shape of an O.
John Darby: "Huh… Never though a boy your age can try and breach into our records. You got guts Raf, I'll give you that."
Raf just smiled and knows that John thought he was a good hacker. But Optimus decided to join in as he asked the Darby a simple question.
Optimus Prime: "Jonathan, exactly why did you join the Social Welfare Agency?"
John looked up to Optimus and gave him a simple answer.
John Darby: "Well there's many reasons I did that. Money, a job, a second chance in life. But there is a main reason behind joining the agency, and that's-"
Almost immediately, Jack finished what his father was saying.
Jack: "Revenge…"
Everyone immediately turned to Jack, who was sitting by listening to the whole conversation, and asked his father about that.
Jack: "That's the reason why you join the agency? Is it?"
John lowered his head and sighed to himself.
John Darby: "It's more like a chance at redemption Jack. I've been struggling for years, trying to find the person that cost my brother, your uncle's, life and was on the verge of a breakdown. The Social Welfare Agency came to me though and offered me a chance to live a normal life. So I sort of take it without knowing the risk in taking this job. It was my only chance in repairing myself and finding the killer that cost so much pain in my life."
Jack just listen to his answer but didn't believe it.
Jack: "So that's it huh? You joined the agency just for a little vengeance. You didn't just take the job to start a new, you joined them just to stick to your past."
John turned to him and tried to reason with his son.
John Darby: "Jack, please understand that I have no choice in the matter. The person that killed Kevin has connections to the R.F. along with the bomb parts that blew your uncle up. I had to take this job to get answers. That's it!"
Jack then got up and argued back to his own dad.
Jack: "Bull scrap! I understand perfectly your reasons in joining the agency. You think killing the person that took Uncle Kev can make it all better. Well, you're wrong! Killing this person won't change anything! It won't even bring my uncle, your brother, back! You should know it!"
John Darby: "And what do you want me to do? Decline that offer? Do you have any idea what I've been through before the Agency found me? Do you?! I've been fighting the Republican Faction myself while the government been keeping tabs on me. I had to survive tooth and nail just to find answers. If it hadn't been for the S.W.A., I would've been in jail, or worse deported! That's something I don't want!"
Jack the walked towards his dad and asked him something else.
Jack: "And what about us dad? What about your family? Ever since you left, it hasn't been the same! You weren't present in anything in our lives. Think about the many birthdays you missed out on, the conversations you would've told me about, the school meetings you weren't there for. And what about mom? She had to work late night at the hospital to help pay for food on the table and keeping our rent intact. Hell, I have to take a job at K.O. just to help her out anyways possible. Where were you? In a country on the other side of the planet living a life in normalcy while we struggle to get by! You didn't even left a letter or a phone call. You were barely non-existent to us. And then you came back after seven years and suddenly it was like you were here all this time! You're really sick, you know that?"
John Darby: "Don't you dare talk to me about that Jack! Do you think I've alienated you just for a little payback?! I DO care about you Jack! You and your mother! Every night I always worry about you, wondering if you didn't get yourself into too much trouble while I was away. I came back just to see the two of you were all right and that everything is the same. But now looking around, I soon realize that so much has changed since I left. I mean, I never thought that you get yourself dragged into some intergalactic war with these, these, things!"
Jack: "The Autobots are my friends dad! They're not things that you ignore. They are special!"
John Darby: "Special?! I nearly got killed by these special friends of yours! Elsa here almost got herself hurt! And now you tell me that this is normal for you? There are times where I would draw the line Jack, and this is one of them. You and your mother are coming with me. We're going home!"
Jack was silent about the whole thing as his father told him that he and his mom would leave home and never come back. But he stood tall and proud and gave his dad his response.
Jack: "No… I'm staying here."
John didn't like what he said as he got close to him to make his words crystal clear.
John Darby: "Jackson Darby… I'm not telling you to go home, I'm ordering you! And as your father, you will follow my orders! Do I make myself cl-"
Before he could even finish, Jack did the unthinkable. He tightened his fist and punched his dad right in the face. John wasn't prepared for this as he was taken off his feet and plummeted to the floor. The Autobots and their human friends looked on in shock and didn't expect Jack to do that to his dad. Even Elsa was shocked to see this and was going to respond to that. But she remained cool and collective, as she didn't want to hurt any of his fratello's family members. John was shocked by this and couldn't believe his son could do that to him. Jack just looked down to his dad and had a distasteful look on his face.
Jack: "Funny… The last time I check, father's don't abandon their families for a vendetta."
He walked away from his father as he told his mom something the moment he passed her.
Jack: "He's going to need an ice pack for his face mom. I just need to be a alone for a while."
He started to walk down the stairs and headed to one of the halls, wanting a little privacy. The team just starred at him leaving and was still quiet after what he did to his own dad. John slowly got up and dusted himself up, feeling the bruise of his son's punch.
John Darby: "Good damn it! Never thought Jack could throw a punch like that. Hurts like hell…"
He then turned around to see the Autobots and their companions looking at him with odd looks to their faces. John crossed his arms and had a questionable look.
John Darby: "What?"
Optimus just stepped forward and let him know of his actions.
Optimus Prime: "You should choose your words wisely Jonathan. While I know you are weary of our presence, you should understand that we would never harm a human, especially of your family."
John looked straight at the leader and had a serious expression to his face.
John Darby: "Really? Then why do I get the feeling that my family is in danger from you as much as those Decepticons your fighting? I don't think they won't live a normal life anymore."
With that said, he headed down the steps and decided to be alone with his thoughts. As the two left, the group looked at each other and didn't know what to do. Of course Miko, being the Miko that she is, decided to start up the conversation.
Miko: "Well, that was a nice family moment."
Raf turned to her and shook his head, letting her know that now was not the time. But June looked at this fight and could understand how much it's hurting her. She had to do something to bring her family back together or it would be a bad week for them. So she left the lounge and headed to Jack to talk to him. Arcee noticed her going there two and decided to follow her as well, just to make sure her partner was all right. Elsa then wondered about her handler and hoped that he's still upset about this sudden development. So she decided to take it up upon her own hands leaving the lounge and heading to John to talk.
In one of the hallways, Jack was still a little fuming about his dad and the truth he said to him and his friends. The moment he heard of the truth behind the Social Welfare Agency, he was completely upset about it. The fact that his father kept it from him is bad enough. But telling him that he was working for an anti-terrorist group that creates cyborgs out of little girls to stop some Italian terrorists, let alone joining that organization just because he still wanted revenge after seven years, boiled him over to the point that he had to punch him. He then kicked a stray stone nearby as it flew to the other end. Taking a deep breath, and laid his shoulder to the wall and continued to process what his dad said.
Jack: "I can't believe him. I simply can't believe my father! Working for some company that creates these super girl scouts with guns just so he can continue to get some revenge against an unknown person that killed my uncle, that's just ridiculous! Why would he do that? Why would he kept it from me?"
Just as he asked that, he heard his mother's voice close by.
June: "Jack? Is everything okay?"
Jack turned to see his mom standing in front of him, looking a little worried. Jack sighed deeply and responded to her.
Jack: "I'm fine mom. Why did you ask?"
June: "Because you punched your own father in the face. You gave us all quite a shock. I've never seen you that mad before in my life. Why did you do that to your own father?"
Jack: "Why I did that? Did you not hear what he said? I couldn't believe that my dad would keep a secret from us. Even if it's a company that turn kids into mercenaries! How could he do that to us? Why would he keep a secret like that?"
June: "I'm sure he has his reasons Jack. But I know one thing, is that he would never turn his back on family. He promised that he would come back and he did, if only for a week."
Jack: "Okay, so he kept his promise. Big whoop! That doesn't change the fact that he lied to us since he came back. I mean, you should be angry at him too knowing that he kept where he works a secret."
June was silent for a moment as she tilts her head to the side and thought about that. Though he was right and she would be angry about this, she's not and she knows why. So she looked back at her son and explained why.
June: "You're right Jack. I should be angry with John. But I'm not. Do you want to know why?"
Jack looked at her intently and wondered where she's going with this.
Jack: "Why?"
June: "Because after seven long years of worrying, my husband, your father returned after a long absent. I don't care about whatever secret he's keeping from us. All that matters now is that he's back and we're a family again, just like old times. That's all that matters now."
Arcee: "You're mother does have a point Jack."
The two Darby's heard that voice and looked up to see Arcee heading towards them. As soon as she kneeled down to their level, Jack walked to his partner and explains the whole situation.
Jack: "Arcee, please understand that I wanted my dad back just as bad as the next person. But not like this! A Darby would never keep secrets from their family. No matter how secretive it is."
Arcee just gave a coy grin and reminded him about a Darby keeping a secret from his family.
Arcee: "Really? Cause the last time I check partner, you kept the secret of the Autobots from your mother for a few months and it almost cost her life. And now it almost cost your father his life. And you said that a Darby shouldn't keep a secret from family?"
Jack blinked his eyes and cleared his throat, knowing that she does have a good point.
Jack: "Okay… Point taken. But that secret is entirely different then that of my dad's. I mean, you heard what he said right?"
Arcee: "Indeed Jack, I did. And you know what, I should be mad at him too. But after what I saw today, when Elsa was taking on Airachnid on her own, I was amazed that she fought well against her. You should be thankful for what Elsa did. If it wasn't for her, then you're reunion with your father would've been cut short."
Jack lowered his head upon hearing those words and realized that she was right. If Elsa didn't save his dad, it would've ended tragically. June decided to step right in and told him to get into the picture.
June: "Listen Jack, I can understand that you're upset about your father after what happened recently. But at least give him a chance, and maybe we can be a family again, just like it used to be."
Jack turned away and gave it some thought. Jack could be upset about his father, but after what his mom and Arcee said to him, he begins to wonder if he can give his dad a second shot in this.
Around that time, John was in a separate hallway trying to piece together what happened. He knew that he had to tell his family and these Autobots Jack introduce to him the truth behind the Social Welfare Agency. But what he didn't expect his son, his own flesh and blood, punching him right in the face. Rubbing his check, he felt the after effects of the punch.
John Darby: "Man… Jack's punch certainly packs a wallop. I'm going to be feeling this for days."
Digging into his shirt, he took out the dog tags that are wrapped around his neck, both his and his late brother's. Taking a look at Kevin's tag, he sighed and asked it like a regular person.
John Darby: "Oh Kevin, where did I go wrong? What have I done that would make my own son to do this to me?"
Suddenly, he got his answer from behind him.
Elsa de Sica: "I think it has something to do with you leaving them John."
John perked up and turned to see his girl, Elsa, standing there in a monotone tone.
John Darby: "Elsa! You know you really shouldn't come up from a man who is consulting with his dead brother."
Elsa nodded and apologized to her handler.
Elsa de Sica: "Forgive me John, I just want to see if you were handling yourself well after what happened just moments ago."
John took a breather and explained how he was feeling.
John Darby: "I feel fine Elsa. It's just I didn't expect Jack to punch me that hard in the face. He certainly takes up after me."
Elsa de Sica: "He certainly does. Anyways, I think I can understand why Jack would do that to you."
John looked at her strangely and asked back.
John Darby: "Oh really? And what's that?"
Elsa de Sica: "Well, if you think about it you did abandon your family just to take vengeance on your brother's death. You spend years searching for your killer until you were found by the Social Welfare Agency and they gave you a second chance in life. And because of that, you were a changed man. But even though you changed, there was still the worry of what happened to your family and wondering if they were all right."
John heard Elsa's wise words and realized that she made some good reasons to her answer. But then he turned his head away and had his own reasons.
John Darby: "You're right about that Elsa. I did miss my family ever since I left them. But now I've come back and then I realized that everything had changed in a big way. I mean look around you! Giant alien robots that can turn into everyday vehicles? A war that lasted a long time against an enemy faction? Coming to Earth to search for this energon stuff while keeping a secret in front of the public eye? This is a complete living nightmare!"
Elsa looked at him with a serious look and gave him his opinion.
Elsa de Sica: "That nightmare saved your life, both our lives, and we should be thankful for them."
But John turned to her and argued back to her.
John Darby: "And you are taking their side over mine?"
Elsa de Sica: "At least they want to protect us then what that thing almost did to you."
John then turned away and was a little unsure about that, but he could agree with her on that occasion.
John Darby: "I guess you're right Elsa, but I still don't want to trust them. Some vacation this turned out to be. 'At least it's the only secret the Darby's would have' I said. 'What's the worse that can happen' I say. 'It's not like this town has secrets of its own' I stated. Boy was I wrong on all those fronts."
Elsa looked on and could tell that her fratello is still a littler weary for these Autobots, especially with his family under their protection. But she remembered what Jack said yesterday and understood what he meant. So she got closer to her handler and explains something to him.
Elsa de Sica: "John, sir, I know that it is a hard time for you. We never knew the secrets your wife and son were keeping until it was too late. You should be angry about all of this. I should be angry too that your family, especially Jack, kept this secret from you. But I cannot, knowing that his little secret saved us. Someone once told me that even if you're not related to the family, you're still part of it. And these Autobots, to Jack they are a family to him. So perhaps maybe we could give this a chance."
John slowly looked at her and wondered where she got those words of advice.
John Darby: "Even if you're not family, you're still part of it huh? Let me guess, my son told you that did he?"
Elsa just gave a simple nod as the Darby gave off a simple chuckle.
John Darby: "Got to say, Jack certainly is growing up right now. All right, let me have a word with him."
Elsa warmly smiled as both she and her fratello returned to the command center of the base.
Heading back to the main room, the Autobots and their human allies were sitting by and waiting after the fight between father and son. They didn't expect that to happen, even if they were family. Suddenly, they all heard footsteps from both ends and looked to see who is it. To the right, they saw Jack, June, and Arcee, leaving one hallway and to the left, they saw John and Elsa leaving another. The group then looked on and wondered what's going to happen next. Both father and son looked at each other and could tell that this could get a little interesting. But then Jack stepped forward and decided to apologies for his actions.
Jack: "Look dad… I just want to say that I'm sorry for what I did. I got a little on edge and angry about you and the whole Agency thing and didn't know what I was-"
But John lifted his hand to stop his son was saying anything, wanting to say something as well.
John Darby: "No Jack… If there's anyone that would apologize, it should be me."
Jack looked at him oddly as the others watched to see what's going to happen next.
John Darby: "You were right Jack, I never should've abandon you. All my life all I ever thought of was finding the person that killed Kevin. So I had to leave just to find that murderer. But that meant leaving you and your mom. I've made many mistakes in the past, but deserting my family is the worse thing I have done. Maybe if I would've stayed at home, then perhaps things would've been different and you wouldn't get dragged into this. But now that I'm back, then maybe we should catch up on some old times, maybe get to know your friends a little better. Your new family."
Jack perked up and couldn't believe what he was hearing. First his father was angry about the Autobots and this war and now he's being sympathetic. Never thought that he would change like that really quickly. Almost immediately, he turned to the Autobots and asked for a quick favor.
John Darby: "And you guys, Autobots was it? Sorry for calling you guys things. I got a little hot over this little issue. I mean I know that Jack would make some friends when he is older but… wasn't expecting anything like this. Now I know what I said that you are too dangerous and this whole civil war you guys have is pretty much a huge deal and all. But being that my family is here means that you've been protecting them while I was gone. But are you going to make sure that they are safe?"
The team looked at each other and was quiet about this, not knowing what to say next. But Optimus, being the leader that he is, stepped in and accept his offer.
Optimus Prime: "Jonathan, I know this is a difficult time for you and Elsa. But being that this is your first time here, let me be the first to say that unlike Megatron and his Decepticon armada, we protect human kind from the threat no matter what. Since your family got involved in our war, we protect them from anything that poses a potential danger. But I promise you that we will keep your family safe no matter what the cost."
John looked at the leader, and had a pleasing smile but a serious look.
John Darby: "For your sake, you better keep to that promise. Oh and don't refer to me by my full name. Just call me John okay?"
Optimus just smiled a little and responded to that.
Optimus Prime: "But of course John."
He then turned to his son and asked for a quick favor.
John Darby: "So Jack, son, what do you say? No more fighting, no more arguing, and no more secrets. We can just let by gones be by gones? Can we just be family again?"
He then extended his hand and offered his son a gentle handshake. Jack looked at the hand and was a little skeptic about this. But then looking up to see his father's eyes, he seems very trustworthy. Even after what had happened recently, he still wants to make amends and become a family again. But being that he did apologized after what happened, he just wants to restart anew. So looking back at his dad's hand, he looked up to him and had a slight grin.
Jack: "After what had happened recently, sure I'll give it a try. Dad."
Upon saying that, he lifted his hand and grabbed his dad's shaking it in the process. But then suddenly, Jack pulled his father in and gave him a strong bare hug very suddenly. John was surprised by this at first, but now knew that his son apologized to him ten folds. He immediately hugged his son back and embraced this moment only for a few good seconds. The team and human companions looked on and were pleased by this special moment. Even Elsa couldn't help but to give off a sly grin to her face as she watched this moment pass by. In a matter of seconds, the two Darby's let go of each other's hug and had pleasant looks on their faces.
John Darby: "Thanks for the hug son."
Jack nodded and smiled to his father.
Jack: "Not a problem dad."
As the two were enjoying the moment together, Miko stepped in and blurted something out very unexpectedly.
Miko: "So… Is it safe to tell Jack's dad that he went to Cybertron by himself and took on a big, bad Insecticon?"
Almost immediately, John turned to Miko and was shocked by the news.
John Darby: "Jack did WHAT!?"
Jack did the same thing and had an angry look to his face.
Jack: "MIKO!"
Miko looked at the two and felt a little confused.
Miko: "What did I say?"
The group saw this and laughed by the unexpected talk and couldn't help but to feel sorry for the Japanese girl's words. As this went on, Arcee approached the Prime and talked to him privately about something important.
Arcee: "Got to say, not what I was expecting for a father and son reunion. But at least they got together again."
The Autobot leader nodded in agreement as they all watched the family get together again.
Optimus Prime: "Indeed Arcee. It seems that Jack's father is adapting to the situation well. Though John now accept our existence, it will take him some time to adapt to the team."
But Arcee thought of something else and told the leader about this.
Arcee: "Still though, I fear that the worse is yet to come."
Optimus turned to the two-wheeler and was a little concerned with what she said.
Optimus Prime: "Arcee?"
She turned to the leader and told him what she witnessed.
Arcee: "Airachnid witnessed Elsa fighting against her. Which means that both she and John could be the target for the Decepticons."
Optimus slowly turned to see John and Elsa while Jack talked to Miko about what she said. He knows that if a certain Decepticon saw what Elsa can do, then that could mean that the two, or better yet the agency, could be the main target for the Cons."
Meanwhile, at the same time, the Decepticon flagship flew through the sky in search for any energon pockets. But inside the medical ward is a completely different story. Airachnid was being patched up while Knockout, the medical officer with a red paintjob and a slim design of a sports car, and his assistant Breakdown, a bulky mech with a blue and white paintjob and a patch where his optic would've been, were fixing her up. But standing before them was the Decepticon leader, Megatron, with Soundwave right next to him. The leader looked at his new commander with eerie red optics and wasn't pleased with her one bit.
Megatron: "I got to say Airachnid, you certainly like to get yourself into trouble."
The spider bot looked at the leader with her one good optic and explained what had happened.
Airachnid: "Lord Megatron, allow me to explain-"
But Megs lifted his servo up and told her not to.
Megatron: "Oh no Airachnid, I understand perfectly. You wanted to do a little fly around and decided to take on your archenemy on your own. And judging by the condition that you were in, it didn't go so well in your favor. Isn't that right Knockout?"
The red medic took a good look at the femme and chuckled by how messed up she looks.
Knockout: "Hmm… Let's see… Armor a little seared, a bit of the energon leak, you're missing one of your legs, and your left optic's been shot off. Long story short, the Autobot's little femme gave you quite a workout. Don't worry; I got the parts needed to get you back in shape. Breakdown, can you get me the spare leg and optic for Airachnid?"
Breakdown nodded and headed to storage to get the parts the doc needed.
Breakdown: "Hmph… From the limited resources we have, I'm surprised we even had a spare optic for her. Was hoping that I would not be the only one that lost half my sight."
Airachnid looked right at the huge brute and snarled right at him as he was leaving. She then turned back to the leader and clarifies on what really happened to her.
Airachnid: "With all due respect lord Megatron, but it wasn't my fault that Arcee beat me so easy."
Megatron then looked at her and reasoned with her on her actions.
Megatron: "Aren't you forgetting something Airachnid? As second in command, it is your task to make sure that my armada is functioning smoothly and follow my orders willingly. You are not meant to handle with your personal affairs with your enemy."
Soundwave decided to step right in and played back what Airachnid told him before she left in a synthesized voice.
Soundwave: "It's just a little fly around. Not a big deal."
The spider bot looked right at the Intel officer and grunted to herself.
Airachnid: "Oh rub that in on me won't you? Still though, I would've snuffed Arcee and her human partner out if it hadn't been for that organic child."
But as soon she said that, she looked around and spotted the cons looking at her very strangely. Peering her eyes at each of them, she started to say one word.
Airachnid: "What?"
That's when the Decepticon leader marched to her and looked really angry.
Megatron: "You got yourself defeated by a young fleshy CHILD!?"
The female Con realized what she said and waved her hands to her leader, trying to reason with him.
Airachnid: "No, no, no! It's not what you think! This girl is different then the others. She was holding some kind of human rifle in her case and was shooting at me when I was going to kill off a human. She was really merciless and had that cold stare in her eyes. I was going to finish that little brat off when she shot off my optic if Arcee hadn't joined forces with her and nearly crushed me to death."
The group was silent about all of this as Knockout decided to say something.
Knockout: "Right… So a little human girl took one a Con like you by herself and shot at your optic. I think the fight with Arcee has gotten your processor a little off."
Airachnid turned to see the medic and argued to him.
Airachnid: "I'm not loosing it Knockout, I saw this girl fighting me and she held out on her own!"
Breakout: "What did I miss?"
They all turned to see Breakdown carrying the tools and the replacement parts for Airachnid on a tray as he overheard the conversation. Airachnid was about to tell him the shut it until Knockout decided to intervene.
Knockout: "The second in command over here said that she got beaten by a human."
His assistant did a double take and couldn't believe what he just heard as he laughed about it.
Breakdown: "You just got beaten by a little girl? Ha! Isn't that rich! And to think that I had a problem with humans capturing me. This is so grand!"
He continued to laugh it up as he never expects a femme like her get beaten by a small little child. But Airachnid was fuming in her vents as she tried to get her servos on him.
Airachnid: "That's it! Come here you! When I'm done with you, you won't be able to see ever again!"
Knockout tries to intervene as he holds the spider bot at bay before she goes psycho on his assistant. Megatron looked at the quarrel and sighed to himself, knowing that this isn't helping the matter. But after what he heard about this girl that took on Airachnid by herself, it seems a little serious. Looking to the group, he told them to cease what they were doing.
Megatron: "ENOUGH! All of you stop this nonsense immediately! I will not have this fighting on my ship!"
Almost everyone stopped what they were doing and calmed down before it would all escalate into a serious beat down. Once everyone was calmed down, Megatron looked to his new commander and asked about what she had experienced.
Megatron: "Airachnid, are you certain that this human girl fought you?"
The spider bot nodded.
Airachnid: "I swear upon the All Spark it's the truth."
As the leader looked at her with interested optics, he turned to Knockout to give him his orders.
Megatron: "Knockout, see too it that Airachnid is fully patched up and operational. Once you're done with her, get the cortical psychic patch ready. I want to see what Airachnid had faced."
Knockout nodded as he and Breakdown prepare the operation. Meanwhile Megatron walked away from the medical ward with Soundwave close by. After hearing what the spider bot said, he wants to know who this girl is and why she took on a Con by herself. He will get his answer, one way or the other.
Yep, now we're getting somewhere. Sorry this took a while; I had to handle a lot of stuff in my life. But I promise that the next chapter won't take that long as this one. But on the next chapter, John and Elsa adapt to the Autobots as another person enters the fray. I'm sure you know what I talking about here. Please Review.