An AllSpark Wish

by MissCHSparkles

AU. Slaving away in a cruel hard world, our fave Seeker Trine struggle to make ends meet. But when Skywarp becomes dangerously ill, thier only hope lies in the mysterious AllSpark that grants a single Wish. But time with running out, can they suceed?

13. Chapter 13

Author's note. The final chapter to this story is up at long last. I know there was always a wait between chapters but I hope the finished story is worth it. It's certainly a long chapter, thanks to the-writing-mew who helped to write it with me.

Tied-With-Ribbons, I hope you really enjoy this. Big thanks to everyone who faved or reviewed this story.

Warning for character death and some gore.

Enjoy and please review.

"I can't believe it," Starscream laughed as Skyfire steadily climbed, still to clear the planet's atmosphere. "We're doing it, we're actually doing it."

"I know," Thundercracker said with a wide smile. "It's incredible."

"Skyfire?" Starscream called. "How is everything?"

"All systems are go," was the shuttle's reply. "We're making good progress; we've definitely got a head start."

"But they'll catch up," Starscream said grimly. "We have to press on, as fast we can."

"I'll give it my all," Skyfire promised, his whole hull shuddering as it finally started breaching Cybertron's atmosphere, the sensation was certainly strange.

"I know you will," Starscream said firmly.

"Thank you but as we discussed, they're unlikely to stop us," Skyfire replied. "Only follow us and I don't think we have time to throw them off course."

"We'll see what comes up," the white Seeker mused. "If we're lucky, we might pass an asteroid field or a yellow star giving off enough radiation to hide us."

"Let's just keep going for now," Thundercracer cut in, his systems thrumming with adrenaline. "Just push on as fast as we can for as long as we can."

"I will do my best," Skyfire assured them.

"Good," Starscream murmured before moving to check on their brother. He lay in the special medical capsule, shaking furiously. The blast off into space had probably affected him, even if he was currently in a fever induced delirium.

…

"So it seems those fliers discovered my plan," Galvatron said coldly, sitting in his throne as bots desperately tried to heat the engines up so they could take off after the escaping shuttle. "Well, it doesn't matter, they'll leave an ion trail which we will follow. At most all they've gained is a few joors, nothing more."

…..

"We're approaching an asteroid belt," Skyfire suddenly announced. "I'm picking up life forms, I believe it may be a station."

"A station?" Thundercracker questioned.

"There are other sentient species capable of space travel," Starscream said knowledgably. "And before Galvatron, Cybertron did have an active space trade, there are probably several colonies that still exist out there. If this station contains Cybertronians, I would not be surprised to see them."

"Interesting," his blue brother murmured. "I wonder what they're doing here, whoever they are."

"It could be a refuelling station," Skyfire suggested before making a small noise.

"What's wrong?" Starscream said instantly.

"We're being hailed," the shuttle replied. "They want us to approach."

"Why, what could they want?" Starscream demanded, suspicious of what this could mean.

"I do not know," was the reply. "What do you want me to do, I cannot tell if they have weapons."

The two brothers looked at each other, they had not anticipated this. What purpose could this hail have, friendly or hostile?

"I….am not sure," Starscream said worriedly. "Should we do as they have said?"

"It might be a good idea," Thundercracker said, equally concerned. "We don't want to risk offending anyone and obtaining damage. Better to talk and leave quickly than be pursued and crippled before even Galvatron can attempt that."

"Right, let them know we're coming," his younger brother commanded of their transport.

"Yes Starscream," Skyfire said softly, turning slightly and heading straight for the asteroid.

As they approached, they were soon able to make out a large, sprawling collection of buildings that made up a base. There were various docking stations and hubs, one of the buildings had a large reinforced dome and while the outside looked rather barren, Starscream couldn't help but think it would be bustling inside. Oh, how he wished that they could spend some proper time there.

This was just the kind of thing he'd always dreamed about.

"The hail is coming from the third docking hub," Skyfire informed them as he flew in closer. "It's set a little apart from the others, looks like we'll have a bit of privacy for whatever it is."

"I guess that's what we want," mumbled Thundercracker.

As Skyfire descended further, he could feel scans running over his form, standard ones to discern that he wasn't a threat. He used his own scanners to feel out who was ahead and detected Cybertronian signals as Starscream had predicted. He relayed this information to them and they relaxed a little. Other species would make for completely unknown factors, at least with their Cybertronians, they should know a little about what to expect.

"About to land," Skyfire warned and they braced themselves. Skyfire was gentle but he wasn't used to passengers and there was always a chance landings could be tricky.

"How's Warp?" Starscream asked anxiously, a moment after they touched down.

"I think he's sleeping," Thundercracker stated. "He should be alright for a little while."

"Good," Starscream murmured as Skyfire's hatch began to open. "We won't be long, be ready to leave at a moment's notice."

"Got it," Skyfire said reassuringly as his hatch finished lowering its self with a hiss. The two brothers shared a brief look before descending onto the rocky barren ground of the asteroid. They were close to the entrance into the base so they began to head towards it, especially as there was currently no one outside waiting for them.

"Come on," muttered Starscream, striding right for the sealed doors. As he and Thundercracker approached, to his mild surprise, the doors suddenly opened so that they could march right on in. The corridor was a little dim but this appeared to be in order to conserve energy rather than neglect.

"What do you think this place is like?" Thundercracker suddenly asked, referring to the base at large.

"Pretty good actually," a voice answered and a Mech with door wings suddenly appeared out of the gloom ahead of them. He had a red chassis with highlights on his legs while his back, door wings and part of his legs were a light blue colour. The rest of him was white and grey with bright blue optics.

The two Seeker brothers glanced at each quickly, his entrance had taken them slightly by surprise.

"Name's Smokescreen," he greeted, holding out a hand which they both shook in turn. "Who might I be speaking to?"

"I am Starscream and this is my brother Thundercracker," Starscream replied softly. "Skyfire is the name of the shuttle outside."

"He's an impressive model," Smokescreen stated as he gestured for them to follow him. "He doesn't want to come in?"

"No, he prefers to remain outside," Starscream said simply.

"No problem," the strange Mech said briskly as a door suddenly opened and they entered a small antechamber, beyond which was probably another corridor that led into the main base.

There were several Mechs waiting for them including a powerful, slightly taller than average red Mech who had a mean look about him and was probably the hired muscle. Strapped to his hip was a very impressive, scarred blaster that was nonetheless lovingly polished. Beside him was a dirty green Minibot with bright yellow optics which were currently squinting at the newcomers. He had no weapons that were visible but a data pad was loosely clutched in one hand. A third bot with a blue visor stood very casually nearby, slim and with a slight aura of danger about him.

"So," Smokescreen exclaimed, clapping his hands together. "I imagine you're wondering why we flagged you down."

"We are," Starscream agreed. "We're actually in a little bit of a hurry but we were curious."

"Don't worry, this won't take long," Smokescreen assured him. "We just don't get a lot of bots from Cybertron, we mostly only encounter those who've been travelling in space for a while or come from colonies. You guys decided to make a fresh start in the stars."

"Yes," Starscream replied with a smile which was mimicked by his brother. With Skywarp cured, this could indeed be their fresh start.

"Good on yah," their host said approvingly. "Things hasn't been the same since the new regime took over."

They nodded, that was certainly true. Before Galvatron, senators were elected while the Matrix of Leadership selected a Prime to protect and lead the people. But with the death of the old Prime and the failed effort to find a new one, their current tyrant was able to seize power which had remained absolute for so many cycles.

"That is true," Thundercracker murmured. "What is it you wish to show us?"

"Well, it's a big scary universe out there," Smokescreen began. "Lot of bad bots and beings out there, you'll need some protection."

"What kind of protection?" queried Starscream.

The visored mech suddenly moved, bringing forth a holo table and sliding it over to Smokescreen who began taking weapons out of his sub space. It was now quite obvious what they meant by protection, for a moment, the brothers had wondered if Smokescreen meant bodyguards. It was funny but Starscream hadn't really thought about weapons but even if he had, getting hold of them would have been difficult without Galvatron finding out. And the whole point of their plan was that the tyrant remain unaware that they'd rumbled his scheme.

"Now this is a nice little number to start off with," the doorwinged Mech began. "It looks a little scuffed I know but it performs just as well as any off the assembly line that's been giving a thorough check over."

Said blaster was of a medium size, its sliver finish was indeed scuffed like Smokescreen had warned but it was by no means an old weapon. This was laid on the table and Smokescreen quickly pulled out another blaster, detailing its virtues. A few breems later, the holo table was covered in various blasters of different sizes, a couple of which even included sharp bits to stab your enemy.

"And this one has a very effective stun setting," Smokescreen finished with a much slimmer gun that was almost completely chrome coloured with a few black strips.

"Very….impressive," Starscream admitted, eying all the products that had been placed in front of them.

"So, you want a few of these?" he asked, gesturing at his merchandise.

Thundercracker and Starscream glanced at each other, there was a very real chance that Galvatron would catch up to them sooner or later. They really should take some weapons but the problem was payment as they'd spent nearly all their credits on outfitting Skyfire for space travel.

"We don't exactly have that many credits," Thundercracker began.

"Ya'all saying yah ain't interested?" Smokescreen's friend, a large red Mech demanded gruffly.

"It's not that," Starscream cut in. "But I doubt you're just going to hand those weapons over to us and we don't have enough to buy…well, more than one I imagine."

"How many credits do you have?" Smokescreen asked.

"Not enough for you to steal," Thundercracker couldn't help but say sharply, making them all laugh.

"That's not how we operate," chuckled Smokescreen, twirling his dagger in one hand.

"Ain't worth the trouble stealing from yah," his large red friend added.

"That's right," Smokescreen agreed. "If you had enough credits to buy a good chunk of our merchandise, then you'll likely buy from us in the future. And if you don't, well, you could easily be a potential customer once you do have a bit more."

The two Seekers glanced at each other, they weren't sure if they believed him but there was little point in arguing.

"Tell you want, I'll tell you the rough price of some of our more inexpensive items," the black market leader now said. "And you tell us if there's one you could possibly buy."

"Very well, that seems reasonable," Starscream mused with a nod. Thundercracker just grunted.

Smokescreen smiled and started listing prices for the cheaper blasters which the two brothers listened to carefully. There were a couple that were within reach of their limited funds but it was likely they could only afford one of them. The question was, which one should they take?

"May we have a moment?" asked Starscream and Smokescreen nodded, this was a pretty standard request. The two Seekers started to converse quietly, discussing the possible advantages of

"Do you accept raw materials?" Starscream suddenly questioned.

"Raw materials?" Smokescreen repeated, pausing.

"Yes," Starscream said. "We're travelling to an unknown planet and it's possible it may have raw tradable goods. Is there anyone in this base who would be interested if we were able to bring any back?"

"Of course there are," Smokescreen stated. "Naturally, it would depend on that raw materials but I would definitely advise you to look into that. If you want, I could give you a list of the ones to look out for and what you're likely to get for them."

"Thank you," Thundercracker exclaimed in surprised gratitude.

Smokescreen offered him a grin and said. "Just remember to give us first choice if we're around."

In spite of himself, the blue Seeker smiled, maybe these guys were alright.

"So, is all up, we hope to see ya soon again and ta bring the goods ya promised."

"We will, we promise," Thundercracker said as they loaded everything in Skyfire.

But suddenly Smokescreen noticed the pad inside the shuttle former and couldn't help but approach and see what's inside it from the transparent glass.

A purple seeker slept in it, however he didn't seemed to be in peace, all the contrary.

"And what happened to him?" He asked before the other two seekers noticed what he was seeing.

"He's... Ill... I... We don't know exactly what it is or how to cure him... Just that we need to find something somewhere," Answered the blue seeker.

For his part Smokescreen nodded and looked back at the ill looking mech behind the glass. "Is he your brother?"

"Yes," Replied once again Thundercracker.

Smokescreen nodded once again and placed a supportive hand on both mechs' shoulders before smiling sympathetically at them. "I wish you to find what you're looking for, and for your brother to recover... Once your task is fulfilled, return, you're always welcome."

The dealers descended from Skyfire and his door closed before he started his engines again; they better hurry or Galvatron will catch up with them sooner than later.

The feeling of leaving another atmosphere made Skywarp whimper and moan in discomfort as the pain forbid him the much needed rest.

"Shhh, is ok Warp, we're almost there..." Tried Starscream while placing his hand against the protective glass, wishing more than ever to be able to touch his beloved brother when in need.

Thundercracker appeared at his side, his face creased in concern. Placing a gentle hand on his brother's shoulder, he said softly. "He'll be alright."

Starscream just made a noise as he whispered encouragement towards their sick brother. They were avoiding touching him because he was in such a delicate condition, he needed to stay inside the medical capsule for as long as possible. Only once they had the AllSpark would they release him from it, or at least that was the plan.

"Let's get strapped in," Thundercracker said gently, there was no point in hurting over their brother. It was hard enough not breaking it open to hug their youngest brother in their loving embrace, to offer him all the comfort in the world but could not do that.

"Okay," Starscream said in a pained voice, the palm of his hand pressed down a little harder before he followed Thundercracker to their seats.

"Things seemed to have gone well for you," Skyfire's voice said after they'd sat down.

"Yes, it was an interesting experience," Starscream agreed in a quiet voice. "We ended up purchasing a firearm."

"So I see," Skyfire stated. "I never thought I'd be carrying weapons but I understand why you bought it."

"Same," Thundercracker said with a wry smile. "But at least those bots were friendly, they even gave us some advice on what raw materials we could collect to trade. If we can get Warp better and evade Galvatron, that could be our next goal."

"That sounds like a good plan," Skyfire said, a smile in his voice. "I have plenty of storage left for that, I would love to collect different samples."

"So would I," Starscream exclaimed, his tone a bit lighter. "Imagine what we could accomplish with tradable goods, we could really explore this galaxy."

"I know," sighed Skyfire, he'd love nothing better.

"Warp will just love seeing all the new sights and flying them," Thundercracker now said fondly. "And so will I."

"We'll all be able to make our dreams come true," Starscream said firmly, taking his brother's hand and squeezing it. "As soon as Warp is better, we can do that.

Thundercracker noded and forced a sad smile.

Hours passed as Skyfire continued with their journey, the blue seeker already fell asleep and Starscream seemed to want to do the same but forced himself to remain awake and look after his brother and Skyfire. He didn't wanted to abandon the shuttle.

"Star?" Suddenly the soft voice of said shuttle sounded and he looked up smiling at him. "Maybe you should take some rest, I'll be ok."

"No," Shook his head the tri coloured seeker. "I must remain awake... What if Galvatron-"

"He will not reach us, at least not yet, if I ever feel something I'll warn you."

"Yes but I must remain alert..."

"Look at yourself, you're almost asleep, please, make me that little favour, I don't want you tired around or fall unconscious because lack of rest," Tried again Skyfire.

"Hmm...," Was everything the other could mumble as he found himself unable to online his optics.

"Rest, Star. I'll be fine... We will be fine."

And then Skyfire was alone with his precious cargo resting contently. He smiled inwardly hoping that they get to the Allspark soon. Checking Skywarp's vitals he found out they were running out of time.

...

"How far are they?" The Decepticon leader growled at his now shaking soldier.

"There is still quite some way to go, sir."

"How far?!" This time he roared.

"W-we may reach them in...in...f-four days, perhaps..."

The purple mech grunted and grimaced nastily before declaring: "I want Starscream alive, his aft is mine, do what you wish with the others! But get them to me!"

"Y-yes sir, I'll...uh...inform the others."

"See that you do," growled Galvatron before dismissing him with a gesture and the solider hurried away, almost tripping several times in his fear.

The supreme leader of Cybertron chuckled to himself, it was always amusing how his underlings almost lubricated themselves in fear of incurring his wrath. Cowards the lot of them but as long as they carried out his orders to the letter, then he'd be satisfied.

And he meant what he said about the fliers they were currently pursuing. That shuttle was too big for his tastes and possibly too big for his crew but he could make a good slave, shuttle classes were uncommon on Cybertron. As for the Seekers, well, he meant what he said, the crew was free to do what they wished with the youngest and oldest. Sure, there was a large chance that the youngest wouldn't make it but he didn't care about that.

It was the middle Seeker that he desired to deal with personally. He'd read over the information files on them, all four had had pretty much dead end jobs but it was apparent that Starscream was capable of much better things. The seeker could have easily been a brilliant scientist if he'd had the credits or right connections to gain such a position.

And maybe if that brother of his hadn't gotten sick, he might have eventually risen in the world, become a minor science tech. But Galvatron had decided on a much more appropriate role for the attractive, slender Seeker. He would return to Cybertron with the Allspark and the perfect little toy to chain to his berth. He glanced out of a view screen which showed various distant stars and planets.

Soon, he would not just have Cybertron in his grasp but numerous other worlds and systems. That was his 'wish', to be able to have the power to create a vast empire. Right now, Cybertron was easily his and he could perhaps take over a few smaller planets nearby.

However, seizing a lot more territory would take a lot of time and resources, it made far more sense simply to take advantage of this opportunity that had come his way.

And to think those foolish Seekers would throw such power away on 'saving' their sickly brother. Pathetic.

"Fools," he muttered to himself as he started contemplating that pretty little Seeker under his pedes. He was going to thoroughly enjoy that.

Yes, nothing better and exotic than a beautiful and intelligent seeker at his mercy giving in to his darkest desires.

He smirked once more and walked away from the screen. His mind, full of his future prey.

...

Meanwhile Starscream had awoken again, returned to sleep and awoke again over and over again.

It seemed impossible for him to reach a deep slumber in which he will be able to finaly rest and return fresh enough to accompany their bigger friend properly.

"Perhaps you should take something," Softly tried Skyfire while not being annoying to the sleeping Warp and TC.

"I'm ok, Sky, thanks... I think I might not be able to rest properly even with a great amount of drugs... I just can't even think about recharge."

Skyfire sighed mentally. His friend was really worried about his brother, perhaps was the knowledge that they were not going to reach the relic on time and everything that kept him going was hope.

Hope... The last thing to die...

...and the thing that hurts the most when is gone into an empty cloud of dust.

"We're almost there, Star, try to rest, please," Once again tried the shuttle. "You will need your whole strength to help Warp and to get the Allspark."

The seeker grunted, he knew that. But still it was impossible to...

Suddenly his thoughts were interrupted as he fell into a deep slumber. Skyfire sighed. He had to do it, had to release the drug in his ventilation system so Star may rest. He might hate him for that, but in the end he was sure he will understand.

He continued on their way, passing several comets, numerous stars and a couple of asteroid belts. It would not be long until they reached their destination and it could not come sooner. Skyfire's senses were telling him that Skywarp's life force had decreased since the start of the journey but he was still holding stubbornly to life. Skyfire hoped he could get to know the young Seeker properly after this was all over, he was clearly something special.

As soon as they landed, he would need to refuel promptly. For the journey, he was fine but there was no doubt he was burning through fuel as time slipped away. Thankfully, they did have energon for when they arrived but once Skywarp was cured, they would need to think about escaping from Galvatron's wrath. He would not be happy and it wouldn't surprise Skyfire if the warlord tried to track them. However, since he wouldn't have a specific destination to go on, it would be considerably harder for the purple Mech to track them.

Skyfire himself wouldn't get lost, he had a star map wired into his systems. He had half a mind to set off in some random direction, lost Galvatron and then return to the planet to collect raw materials. And then they could head back to that base and trade for goods and fuel. Assuming Galvatron didn't try to raze the planet in his rage but surely he had not brought enough fire power to do that. Not if he didn't want to get back to Cybertron that is.

"Hnn!"

He was brought out of his revelry by that exclamation and he realised it was Thundercracker. Thankfully, Starscream was sleeping soundly.

"How did you sleep?" he questioned as Thundercracker got off his bunk and made his way to where Starscream was slumped in a seat.

"Alright," the blue Seeker replied, stretching out a few joints. "What happened to Starscream, did he just collapse?"

"Not exactly," Skyfire replied. "He wouldn't sleep so I...helped him along."

Thundercracker shook his head, his brother was a stubborn one but he could understand his anxiety. The fact remained of course, that both of them needed to be well rested, they could easily have a fight on their hands once they arrived.

"He certainly needs his sleep," he mused, gently lifting his younger brother into his arms and taking him to a bunk. "Thanks for looking out for him."

"Let's hope he sees it that way," Skyfire sighed. "I would not have done it if it hadn't been so important that he rest."

"I'll talk to him if he's upset," Thundercracker assured him, tucking Starscream into a bunk and covering him with a blanket. "Is it much longer until we reach the planet?"

"Only a few hours now," Skyfire confirmed, causing the eldest Seeker to still.

Was their journey nearing its end so soon? Thundercracker would almost rather it went on for a lot longer because as long as they kept moving, then Galvatron could not catch up to them. Landing on a planet however would mean it was only a matter of time before he caught up to them.

"I see," he said simply. "I...I think I will read for a little while, I can't sleep right now."

"You could always have a nap in a little while," Skyfire advised gently. "Don't worry, he's nowhere near us right now."

Thundercracker nodded, making a small noise of agreement. But it was hard to stop his nerves tingling with nervous anticipation.

...

"Argh," Starscream groaned as he came awake, his head felt heavy and his limbs a little stiff.

He rubbed at his face, his body felt strange after such a long, deep sleep.

"Star?"

"TC?" he mumbled, squinting up at the shape of his brother's form. "What's going on?"

"We've almost arrived," his brother replied simply.

"WHAT!?" Starscream yelped, almost hitting his head on the roof of his bunk. "How long have I been asleep?"

"Quite a while," Thundercracker stated, adding. "Star, you needed it, you were close to collapsing."

Starscream looked at him suspiciously, he was starting to suspect he had not fallen into recharge naturally.

...after all, everyone -minus Skywarp- was 'suggesting' him to take a rest and recharge.

Did he fainted?

He doubted it; when he fainted, if it happened, he always somehow kept himself half conscious, able to hear and feel, but not to see, speak or move.

Just as he was tying up the ropes to possible cases, Skyfire made an alarm sound startling him and his brother, and cutting off his trail of thoughts.

"Please, sit straight and fasten your seatbelts, we will soon get trapped into the planet's gravity system," Announced the shuttle.

Starscream and Thundercracker then hurried up to tighten his brother's capsule's restraints before hurrying after a couple of seats and fastened their belts.

The tri coloured seeker hoped that the gravity was gentle on them, just for his little brother, and that the atmosphere will be just as kind.

...

It was not a gentle entering, even Starscream and Thundercracket were affected by the force the blue planet possessed as it dragged them towards its ground, but still both were unable to move and check on Warp until they landed, when they recovered their forces back...

...which took a while even after landing.

"Starscream? Thundercracker! Wake up!" The shuttle exclaimed in alarm as both fliers in him seemed unconscious but unharmed.

He checked on the now panting and crying purple mech as this one moaned and moved his head from side to side in pain. Definitely the entry in this planet made him suffer more than he was already suffering.

"Skywarp!" Hissed in frustration the big scientist as both his brothers were still motionless. "No, please, resist, you can't go now, you can't do that to your brothers! Come on!"

The younger only moaned unable to answer as fever rose in his body.

"Please, we're too close... Do it for Star...and TC! It will destroy them if you don't hang in there for them!"

Somehow the younger seemed to have heard him and quietened his sobs a little before whispering a weak: "Star... TC... I... Feel bad.. Hurts... Help..."

"Yes, Warp, the aid is here, resist!" Assured him the shuttle in that calm, baritone voice of his.

Skywarp felt like crying and purging, but resisted nonetheless, those thing will only make him feel worst than now, besides Skyfire was right, he must resist for his brothers -he heard him even after all his suffering- they came too fast to fail now.

Suddenly a groan was heard nearby.

"Uhhh...!" Starscream covered his mouth resisting the urge to purge his tanks out. That was the worst landing he'd ever felt!

"Star! Please! Skywarp!" Was the only thing Skyfire could say once he detected his friend awakening. "We must hurry, he won't resist long!"

"I'm...coming," Starscream gasped, weakly scrabbling at his restraints. "Just...hold on!"

Skyfire felt utterly helpless, while they were inside him, he could not transform and offer any assistance. However, he could help release the two strapped in seekers. With a mental command, their seatbelts snapped open and Starscream tumbled out of his seat while Thundercracker slumped out of his.

"Urgh," the red and white Seeker moaned, he really felt like purging now. However, the whimpering sounds of his little brother roused him and he somehow hauled himself to his feet and began stumbling over to Skywarp's pod.

"I'm coming, Warp, don't worry, everything's going to be alright," he tried to say soothingly.

"Star," his brother whimpered, spurring the Seeker to give himself a slap just to gain a bit of concentration.

"It's okay, I'm here," he exclaimed, collapsing on top of the medical capsule and quickly trying to get it open.

"There we go," he soothed, lifting his brother up and cuddling him close. His brother was not looking good, his colour was faded and he was trembling continuously.

"Hurts," his brother told him, tears slipping down his cheeks. "Star..."

"Shh, it's okay," Starscream said reassuringly. "We've arrived at the planet, we'll soon make you better. Then we'll go flying together, won't that be nice?"

"Hmm," Skywarp agreed, clinging weakly to his beloved sibling.

Holding him close, Starscream glanced around, realising that Thundercracker hadn't joined them. "TC?"

"Wha...what happened?" was the response. Thundercracker was sitting up, a hand on his head as he slowly shook it. That really had been a horrible landing.

"I'm afraid the landing was a rough one," Skyfire answered for him. "This planet's gravity is different from Cybertron's...I apologise for what happened."

"It's not your fault," Thundercracker assured him as he pulled himself to his feet. "Star?"

"Over here," Starscream called, supporting their frail brother.

"Warp," he gasped, almost crashing into a wall as he tried to run over. "Are you hurt?"

Skywarp just groaned, he didn't know how to describe how he felt. He felt sick, weak and everything seemed to hurt. But he didn't want to let them know how much pain he was in.

"Oh Warp," Thundercracker murmured, wrapping him up in a firm hug. "Everything will be fine, you'll see."

"We'd better give him some Energon," Starscream. "And for Skyfire as well, then we need to get going."

"I can carry Skywarp," Skyfire assured them. "But we better hurry, Galvatron cannot be far behind."

"Right," Starscream said briskly, not feeling so nauseous now. "TC, you take Warp outside, I'll gather what we need."

"You got it," Thundercracker saluted, gathering Skywarp into his arms and taking him towards the exit. Skyfire was already opening his hatch with a hiss.

Starscream instantly went into action, gathering up Energon cubes, some medical supplies and the weapon they'd bought from Smokescreen. He then rushed out to be with the others.

The air was heavy and wet, it seemed like an organic planet; lots of organic plants covered most of the ground from different heights.

Luckily for them, the green mat under their pedes was soft and low enough for them to land and walk.

"Skywarp fell asleep again," Said Skyfire after transforming into his bipedal form and taking the purple mech up into his arms.

Worry and determination written all over Starscream's face before taking a device and looked at it.

"This way." He motioned the others to follow.

The device he had could detect the strong energy the Allspark produced, and said relic was near their landing place.

As they walked, several organic creatures stared at them, some hissed and some others just hid away or ran from them.

"I hate this weather," Mussed Thundercracker while removing some condensation from his frame. Skyfire did the same to Skywarp's forehead. Their cooling fans were working hard to keep them fresh.

In this jungle, it was hard to not desperate by the hot and wet weather.

"The only thing we need is that it starts raining." Once again mussed sarcastically the blue seeker...

However, as if the planet heard him and took his challenge as something personal, suddenly the once clear skies covered in thick, black clouds and started raining.

"Great!" Exclaimed Thundercracker. "Just what we needed! Can it rain harder, please?!"

As if hearing him again, bigger drops fell and lightning, closely followed by the explosions of the thunders roaring near. The floor became unstable and mud started covering it making it difficult to them to walk.

"Goooood! Now, some winds and hails will make my day, please!" Sarcastically and growing in anger, the same seeker said...

...and once again his wish come true.

"TC! Shut up!" Barked his middle brother who was covering from the merciless weather and the rocks that hit them from the skies.

"It was sarcasm!" He tried while covering his head and lowering his wings.

"Please, stop! We came in peace, we need help for him!" Suddenly Skyfire begged while covering the ill seeker the best he could. "It's all we want...Please!"

As if understanding, the rain started ceasing and a nice and fresh breeze followed. However the sky remained cloudy.

"What. The. Frag?!" Starscream exclaimed looking around.

"It seems someone is handling this planet... And can hear us," Skyfire voiced his theory. "The Allspark, perhaps?"

Starscream and his brother looked at each other. After what happened it was easy to suppose that.

"We better continue, Star, are we close?" Asked the shuttle.

"Uhh... Yeah, this way." Motioned the tri coloured one.

They walked for a few more minutes before reaching an odd clear...

Instead of receiving the light of the sun, like in the one they landed, this one was covered by tall organic trees, and in the centre of it was a tall and magnificent pyramid, surrounded by strange sculptures and other buildings that worked as fountains and roads.

They looked at everything in awe for a moment before Starscream spoke again. "The energy comes from inside that pyramid."

"Then what are we waiting for, come on!" Hurried Thundercracker...

"No! Wait!" Stopped him his brother, but not before he stepped on the ceramic floor... And they barely dodged whatever was shoot at them.

Their sparks beating hard against their chests at what almost happened.

"Its full of traps, is a security system to protect what's inside." Informed the white shuttle. "We need to be careful... And I doubt it will be a good idea to hoover above all of it," He added while scanning the air too. Several lasers were placed around, waiting for any movement to happen.

"So, how do we cross?" Asked the blue seeker.

Immediately Starscream investigated around before discovering a path that followed like a labyrinth. "There!" He said. "It can cross only one at the time, I'll go first."

"Be careful," cautioned Skyfire, carefully holding Skywarp close.

"Don't worry, I will," Starscream assured him and Thundercracker. "I'll find all the traps and warn you about them."

"Let's hope this temple allows that," mumbled his brother as Starscream turned a corner and disappeared from sight. They wished they could follow but the glyphs decorating the entrance made it clear this wasn't possible. Skyfire could only hope that the temple accepted that Skywarp could not cross on his own.

Surely it would understand as long as they followed the rules to the best of their abilities. Such as allowing Starscream to go ahead of them.

"Please be safe," Skyfire murmured to himself.

...

"I hope you're prepared for Galvatron," Starscream said aloud to the silent corridor he was cautiously walking through, his optics scanning for any oddities. The walls were decorating with various murals, several of which depicted various beings caught in traps. Dire warnings to strike fear into the sparks of the fearful but he would take them for what they were. Hints of what was to come if you weren't paying close enough attention.

"I doubt he will show much respect," he continued. "He'll happily destroy this entire temple if he can."

He smiled as he said. "Naturally, I'm hoping he'll fall right into one of your traps and be permanently held there."

Chuckling at this cheerful thought, he realised that up ahead, the corridor split into two new ones. He had a choice to make, right or left. Pausing, he glanced at the murals, trying to decode what they said. Unfortunately, both simply indicated that either passage would take him to the centre of the pyramid and did not say which direction was the best to take.

"Oh, I see how it is," Starscream said, hands on hips. "You're not going to help me, are you? I need to take a chance and pray I choose the right one."

He froze, he could almost swear he heard a chuckle...or maybe the echo of one? Either way, it was clear that like the outside, there was something...alive. Perhaps some kind of energy which was embedded in this entire world.

"Alright, I'll play the game," he declared aloud. "I chose...the left!"

Having said this, he strode into the left hand corridor and found himself going downwards. He wondered if he'd made the right choice and turned back only to find a solid wall blocking his way. Apparently, there were no take backs.

Gritting his teeth, he carried on, he would not allow this place to get to him.

...

"How long until he gets through?" questioned Thundercracker, nervously looking up at the sky.

"I'm afraid I do not know," Skyfire said simply. "Hopefully soon, I don't like standing out in the open like this."

"Me neither," Thundercracker. "Galvatron could arrive any moment...what if he does while we're still out here?"

Skyfire grimaced, he didn't have any answer.

"This place will defend its self from him," he said instead. "There is that at least."

"Hmm," Thundercracker murmured worriedly.

He then looked down at the place his brother disappeared into, the most 'friendly' place you could take if you could see the invisible lasers covering the entire surface; besides, the tall trees covered the skies completely here, as if protecting it with an odd hug or roof, then again he doubted he could fly to the pyramid, those trees were...strange.

Somehow, something told him that said organic things can do more than just stare down at them.

He shivered at the thought.

"Hmm...!" Suddenly Skywarp moaned softly in pain, his fever has not diminished and he could feel how his own spark was being melted.

"Warp! Please resist!" Tried his eldest brother in hurry while caressing his face as the other shivered in the shuttle's arms. "Please... Star... Hurry..." He choked on tears.

They couldn't lose his little brother now, it was... They came too far for this!

"TC..." Murmured the younger weakly causing the other to get all his attentions on him. "I'm...cold..."

It was barely a breath, but both seeker and shuttle understood what that means.

"Resist, Warp! Resist!" Tried his brother in desperation.

"...so...tired..." He lolled his head to the side leaving out one last breath.

"Warp! NO! WARP! Please!" Cried Thundercracker.

But then...

"Look!" Skyfire said pointing towards one of the fountains in the pyramid's garden.

"I can't look at anything! My baby brother is dying! Even if Starscream reaches the Allspark, it will be too late!" Roared the other, but Skyfire could see more, he got up and started after that fountain.

"What are you doing?!" Desperately tried the blue seeker, but was unable to stop the shuttle as this one entered the ceramic floor...

...and nothing happened.

"What...?"

"Come! Is letting us in!" Said Skyfire before reaching for the fountain and lowered Skywarp in its calm, pure and warm waters.

Carefully, as if not believing it yet, the blue seeker followed him and watched how his little brother started breathing again and calmed a little.

But once again looking around, he saw that no leaf of animal dared to cross the clear.

He hoped that his other little brother hurries, and don't have claustrophobia in that subterranean labyrinth.

Also, why now the temple allowed them in? Why not before?

He checked around with his visor. The invisible lasers continued around and above them.

...

"Urghhhh!" Galvatron descended his ship onto the soft ground and the first thing he did was purge badly.

Most of his mechs followed his example.

"Disgusting organic planet!" He barely groaned, pretending to be a roar that failed.

Then soon a loud thunder roared near and the skies -already clowdy- darkened. Lightnings broke the skies in dangerous ramifications.

"What the frag?" He hissed before one of his soldiers screamed...

"Lord Galvatron, look!" Then big pieces of solidified water were falling on them at fast speed. It was like rocks hitting them.

"No fragging organic planet is going to stop me!" He roared. "Find them! Get them to me!" Then added darkly. "But remember... Starscream is mine."

Several mechs saluted him and jumped onto the air ignoring the rain of rocks...

...but didn't go far.

A tornado caught them off guard and forced them into its centre, killing them all.

By then, ignoring this fact, Galvatron and several others entered the jungle following the energy that came from a certain place.

His temper was steadily worsening as rain poured down on them, extremely cold rain. There was also the spongy ground which seemed to suck their feet down, making progress a lot slower. Galvatron growled as mud and bits of organic materials stuck to his legs and lower body. The wind howled around them, occasionally throwing things at them, pieces of rock, wood or just general debris.

"Lord Galvatron, look out!" one of his soldiers cried before shoving his leader aside as a large tree suddenly splintered and fell. By some fantastic stroke of luck, the soldier was not actually crushed, just knocked painfully aside.

Picking himself up, Galvatron glared. If this was the AllSpark's way of testing him, then he would indeed prove himself more than up for the challenge.

"Cyclonus," he barked at the large dark blue Mech some of the others were helping to his feet.

"Yes sir?" he gasped, a little shaken by what had happened.

"Scout ahead, see how far we need to go," Galvatron ordered.

"Yes my lord," the loyal solider murmured, transforming and setting off into the air. He swayed dangerously in the sharp wind but somehow managed to push through. Maybe it was his determination to see the company through safely but he wasn't met with any tornadoes.

The warlord wiped some liquid off his face, had those fliers faced as much difficulties? He hoped that Starscream at least had not come to too much harm otherwise he might not be able to handle all that Galvatron wanted to do to him. And no blasted planet was going to stop him!

...

"Urgh," Starscream exclaimed in annoyance as his face came into contact with some sticky, hanging material.

He was still somewhere underground and had just entered a room that appeared to be filled with nothing but webs. And not just tiny little delicate things, huge thick curtains of the stuff hung everywhere he turned.

"Frag it all," he cursed as he clawed the horrible webbing away from his face only to find more of the stuff snagging his left foot.

"I hate this stuff," he complained, yanking his foot out and forcing his way through to the exit. Only to find himself in a much bigger room with a bridge connecting this door to the opposite one. All around where a lot more webs that where even bigger than those in the previous room. The pit below the bridge was so deep that he could not make out the bottom but since he was a flier, he wasn't as concerned as a grounder would have been.

"This doesn't look too bad," he mused, the webs weren't clogging the bridge way too much although it wasn't really possible to fly since every other space appeared to contain web.

He started to make his way across and had got a third of the way over when something hit one of his wings. He glanced down to find a very sticky glob oozing slowly down his armour. Pulling a highly disgusted face, he tried to wipe it away only to find it sticking to his fingers. He frowned before looking upwards and another glob splattered right across his forehead.

"Oh slag," he spat, now trying to get rid of even more of the disgusting substance.

"Where is this coming from?" he couldn't help but ask aloud before stilling.

Right above him, coming from several different directions was a hissing, rattling noise. It had become painfully clear that this room was not as empty of life as he had supposed. Swallowing heavily, he continued to stare as the sounds grew louder and half a dozen form suddenly emerged from the gloom.

The first thing he noticed were the huge, dripping pincers that was where those globules had come from. The next thing he saw where the pairs of bright purple eyes, all fixed right at him and devoid of any other colour. This was closely followed by their massive, rotund bodies which seemed to sprout horrible hairy legs.

"Primus," the Seeker whispered, was it his imagination or did they look...hungry?

...

"That's it Warp, you're safe," Thundercracker cooed softly, stroking his brother's forehead as he lay in the life giving fountain.

"He appears stable," Skyfire said in relief. "This place is allowing us a chance to reach the AllSpark."

"Yeah," Thundercracker agreed before Skyfire suddenly turned around with a frown.

"What is it?" the blue Seeker questioned.

"I'm picking up a signal," Skyfire said slowly. "I think it's a..."

His optics widened as he gasped. "A Cybertronian!"

"Primus no," Thundercracker said in horror. "They've caught up to us...and I don't think Star is through yet!"

"No, he must be down there still!"

Looking up, Skyfire saw the covered skies and how it was practically impossible to see this place from above, but then again, when crossing those branches was the real treasure.

Checking with his visor he also could say that the lasers continued there, just as threatening as before.

"Where are they?" Asked the blue seeker. "And... Can we even move?!"

Skyfire hurried to answer. "There are two groups... One is coming from above, the other from that direction on the jungle." He pointed to the east.

"Frag!" Thundercracker started to become desperate. "We need to get out of here or they will... Will... Only Primus knows!"

"We can't!" Hurried the shuttle. "We're trapped, look!" He pointed at the invisible lasers that closed the path that once was open for them.

"That is not our only problem..." Mused the other watching the odd statues that resembled gothic creatures staring at them directly... As if daring them to move...with a promise in their dark optics...a promise of danger.

As they analysed their situation, suddenly something came from the skies, something that dared to cross the branches that covered the sacred temple...

They looked up in shock at Galvatron's most loyal lieutenant... And he grinned evilly when devising them.

"Cyclonus!" Gasped Thundercracker as this one circled around them still grinning.

"Lord Galvatron will be immensely pleased of finding you both here... However... Where is the screaming one?" The Decepticon flier almost purred.

Both shuttle and seeker remained in silence before Skyfire noticed that the once threatening statues were not looking at them anymore, but were watching at Cyclonus.

"Answer me!" He yelled before landing near them...

...but not even a second passed that he set his pedes on the polished ceramic floor that something came flying towards him and cut him off in half, separating his torso from his legs, then a ball of fire forced both halves of his body out from the temple.

Cyclonus, who was not dead yet, was screaming madly in pain, shock and horror as he bleed out his life.

"H-heeeelp! Lord Galvatron!" He cried.

"We need to get moving." Skyfire said to a shell shocked Thundercracker who just couldn't believe what just happened. "Come on!" He hurried after taking Skywarp up from the fountain.

Said ill seeker moaned in discomfort; it seemed the waters kept him alive and well when in them, when out, the symptoms returned.

"Thundercracker!"

"Where?!" Suddenly jumped the other.

"This way, to the pyramid!" Motioned the white one running towards said place.

"What? How- no! Wait! Why can we cross now?!" Sceptically and in desperation asked the seeker.

"I don't know," Answered the shuttle. "But is the only path we can take now."

For a moment, the blue one hesitated before running after the one that carried his little brother.

...

"L-lord... G-alv... Galvatron..." Cyclonus spluttered energon and pointed towards the pyramid once he saw his leader approaching.

"Where are they?!" He demanded and watched how the winged ones escaped towards the triangular building. "Get them!" The crazy leader ordered his soldiers before Cyclonus could even warn them...

...and several of them suffered his same fate.

By the time Galvatron was demanding his lieutenant for answers, he was choking with his own energon and everything he could say was a weak: "Traps...everywhere."

With a growing growl that soon transformed into a frustrated roar, he transformed into a canon and shot a powerful plasma blast towards the running shuttle and seeker.

However, somehow, no matter how much he shot, no harm cam to them... It was like the place was absorbing his energy.

By the time he noticed this, both Skyfire and Thundercracker disappeared from sight.

He snarled in fury before bending down to his almost dead lieutenant.

"I will avenge you Cyclonus," he muttered to the shuddering bot whose optics glowed briefly before fading completely away.

Galvatron briefly wondered if he could use the AllSpark to bring back any of this fallen soldiers, it would certainly be useful way of retaining loyal servants. First however, he needed to get his claws on that precious artefact. Standing up straight, he glared in the direction the two fliers had gone in. Since there was no sign of Starscream, they had apparently split up, maybe the young Seeker had gone ahead to scout out traps.

Well, if those fliers could find a way in then he could. Gripping his weapon tightly, he glanced around at all the dangerous traps and started forward.

...

"Get off me!" Starscream yelled as another spider tried to pull him up into the webbing and tie him up. He slashed at it with a knife, cursing the fact he didn't have a proper weapon. Thundercracker had been the one he'd given the blaster to, so that Skywarp would be protected but he couldn't help but regret that now. These horrible, disgusting things were swarming all around and he could barely drive them back.

"Damn it all," he screamed as a glob hit his arm and said glob had a long, strong piece of web attached. The spider who had shot it at him started to wind the rope back, dragging Starscream towards it.

The Seeker cursed again and started to hack at the rope, not an easy thing considering how elastic and sticky it was. And of course, other spiders were taking aim, forcing him to dodge their lines of web. This was taking far too long, he needed to get out of here as soon as possible so that the others could enter the temple. And hopefully, they would not take the left path like he had done.

"No!" he yelped as another glob finally managed to hit his back, further rendering him immobile.

The knife was becoming clogged up, soon he could have nothing to defend himself with apart from his own fists. And it was highly unlikely they were going to do much damage. He wished dearly that he had some sort of flame-thrower, that would soon send these eight legged pit-spawn fleeing. But of course, he had nothing of the...

Wait a minute, flame-throwers?

"Have a taste of this!" he snarled, thrusting his feet upwards and activating his thrusters.

Squeals erupted all around as his thrusters shot fire at both the webs and the spiders. Chattering madly, they retreated back and clearing the way for him. Wasting no time, he shot for the exit and gratefully fell through it, panting with the effort of fighting through that webbed room.

"Great," he muttered in exasperation, his armour was covered in the stuff and he had no time to properly get rid of it. So grumbling to himself, he now proceeded up a stairwell locked in some sort of tower.

...

Skyfire stopped dead in his tracks when devising an odd statue that seemed to be looking at them intently.

Its green eyes glowed and scanned both mechs at the same time before directing his gaze down to Skywarp.

"Why did you...stop...?" Tried the blue seeker watching the terrifying, stone gargoyle piercing him with its eyes.

The creature was right in the middle of the next door they needed to take and they couldn't even walk around it...

They were sure if they tried, it will attack them and probably shred them in pieces.

In that moment, Skywarp onlined -weakly- his optics and lolled his head to the side, and watching the gargoyle, he said in a weak whisper -accompanied with a weak smile- "Hi~" Then he passed out again.

The gargoyle, to the others' shock, smiled and... It moved!

It almost killed Thundercracker from a spark attack.

"Hello." It said lowering its' big wings and addressed the others.

"H-hi..." Stuttered the shuttle as the rock monster came closer and sniffed Skywarp and them to him.

It didn't say more, just turned around and walked back to its' old spot before laying back on its' rear and...

It spoke!

"What in this universe gets wetter the more it dries?"

By then both shuttle and elder seeker were looking agape at the creature. Obviously it took them a while to get rid of said shock and...

"What?" Asked Thundercracker before Skyfire guided him towards the other side of the wall to talk.

"I guess it's a test to pass... A question... A quiz."

"A quiz?! Why would it ask us a quiz?!" Asked a frustrated seeker before the gargoyle tilted its' head to one side and asked:

"Is that your answer?"

That startled the two conscious fliers who felt a cold chill run by their spines.

"N- no... Please, give us some... Minutes." Asked politely the shuttle. The gargoyle just laid its head on its' front paws and waited.

"We must answer if we want to pass." Whispered Skyfire to the still shocked Thundercracker.

But when he 'recovered' he asked in a hiss: "Then what's the answer?!"

Skyfire moved his mouth from side to side before pacing around while thinking for an answer as the other looked around and watched the graphics in the walls.

They illustrated what will happen to those who answers wrong the question the gargoyle asked. It was not a nice scenario and it seemed said creature was quite creative in its' way of taking someone's life.

He gulped and hoped Skyfire answers correctly.

As he thought in his answer, he took a towel and dried Skywarp's forehead from his sweat; the fever returned and the poor mech was burning again.

His blue optics suddenly brightened as he looked down at the rag; he directed his gaze towards the gargoyle and said -without consulting it with Thundercracker- "A towel, is a towel."

"What?" The blue seeker said almost in shock. If the answer was wrong, then they were lost. Skyfire however stopped him with one gesture from his head.

The gargoyle smiled, moved a little from the door and this one opened allowing them entrance.

Hesitating for a few seconds -until Skywarp moaned in pain again- they finally moved towards the now open doors. The gargoyle just looked at them but said nothing and allowed them pass.

...

"The frag this things are going to stop me!" Galvatron roared while shooting around the winged beasts that tried to get him and then ran away, then shot again the closing walls successfully breaking them for him to pass through.

"You can't stop me you stupid temple! You hear me!"

Suddenly there was a little seism that shook the ground that almost made him lose balance, but he managed to stand and growled threateningly.

But then, when it was over, only silence was heard... Deep and silent... Silence.

It was maddening!

Galvatron was sure he could hear his own spark beating and even how his engines worked to make his body work, something he was sure he'd never heard. Growling again, he continued walking through the subterranean labyrinth that continued dark and silent... Maddeningly silent!

So silent that for a moment Galvatron thought he'd heard someone behind him or hallucinated someone in front of him!

Time passed, seconds felt like hours, hours like weeks, he checked his chrono and couldn't believe it was only a few minutes since this silence started! And what he didn't know was that the temple had him walking in circles, silently changing from time to time so he will not realize he passed the same place over and over again.

His anger began to grow but beneath that, the cold sting of fear prickled at him. This made him even angrier and he started to run, partly to find a way out and also to create a little bit of noise. However, his footsteps echoed horribly in the deathly still corridors and chambers that he passed through. The decorations were sparse and the few torches created eerie glows that would have easily frightened anyone.

"You will not break me," hissed Galvatron to the empty silence. "I am stronger than all those who have gone before me!"

There was only silence.

"You think just anyone can take over Cybertron?" he now demanded. "And hold total domination over it? Believe me, it takes something special to do that."

Nothing.

The purple Mech growled before stamping onwards, his optics scanning everywhere. But nothing really changed and he was beginning to get the sense of going nowhere. So finally running out of patience, he transformed and powered up his canon. With relish, he blasted away at his surroundings until he was surrounded by smoke and rubble. Transforming back into root mode, he set off against, determined to win against all odds.

...

"I do not believe this," cursed Starscream for what felt like the millionth time as he pulled himself out of a vat of some gelatinous substance. He'd entered what almost appeared to be a swamp and yet he knew that he was still within the temple as he occasionally saw a piece of stone pillar or stairway.

"I hate this place," he groaned, trying to wipe the horrible mixture of slime and gloop from his body, somehow, he was falling into every single stinking...and he meant that literally...pool of ooze. Flying didn't help, he'd just collide with an exotic plant which just happened to cover him in something else.

Sitting on a large blue fungi, he sighed heavily. At this rate, he would need to spend a whole week soaking in a hot tub and then another week scrubbing everything out. And what were the chances he'd be able to do that on this planet?

"Please Primus," he suddenly exclaimed. "Don't put the others through this, Warp would never survive this place."

Nothing answered him but he hoped the temple had enough mercy to heed his call. Just as he was about to get up, the surrounding mushrooms started to shudder. As he stared, their tops suddenly exploded, shooting spores high into the air before most of them floated right back down. He coughed as he was coated in the stuff, it was going into his intakes. Blindly, he jumped to his feet and stumbled away, he had to get out of here and fast. Coughing racked his frame as he attempted to get rid of the spores but it wasn't working very well.

"Ahh," he yelled as a vine caught his foot and he went tumbling head over heels into some undergrowth.

He braced himself for impact only to...

SPLASH!

A moments thrashing and he broke the surface of a crystal clear pool of water. He floated, blinking around as a water flower gently passed him. The water all around him was discoloured by the various substances which had been on his body but the rest of the water was utterly pure. He coughed and found that his intakes weren't as horribly clogged as before. The cool liquid was extremely soothing, he could easily spend several hours here.

"This...is a change," he admitted softly. "But I'm not complaining."

Glancing around, he saw some stone steps emerging from the water and started to make his way over to it. He had the impressed that there was a path that went through this swamp room but of course, most of it was overgrown. He wondered if he'd found part of the path or was this a sidewalk? Either way, it looked like his best bet. He swam over and walking out, shuddering a little as the water left his body and introduced him to gravity again.

"How much longer?" he murmured to himself, with every room he was forced to go through, the more his brother's life slipped away. He had to get to the AllSpark and fast.

"Please Warp... Hold on..." He said as he hurried towards the only exit from the lake, the stairs. "I'm coming with help."

A wall was formed behind him after he crossed the first steps into the stairs; it was obvious that he couldn't return to the lake.

...

"The third stone... Creature," Mussed Thundercracker as he watched behind his back to make sure the little white-stone gargoyle wasn't following them. "I wonder, how much more do we have to deal with?!"

The last gargoyle was a small one, asked them a question and... To their surprise wasn't a quiz unlike the first two.

It asked them to play with it.

It felt like hours with the hyperactive creature, well, it must be boring staying here every day without nothing better to do. When it finally tired, it asked them to leave, which they were grateful for and now they were walking through white marble passageway with crystals hanging everywhere.

It was a beautiful sight and they know Skywarp would have loved to see it if he could. The thought saddened the blue seeker, until he devised the next door...

...and there was another big, white and magnificent stone gargoyle that analysed them with its' golden eyes.

Thundercracker almost groaned in frustration.

When they were right in front of it, it spoke:

"Have you played with my little brother?"

Both shuttle and blue seeker stared agape. Was that little thing...?

"Yes?" Answered Skyfire with hesitation.

"Is he asleep?" Asked again the gargoyle.

"Yes?" Tried again the white mech.

The gargoyle seemed like taking out a deep intake and looked up to the ceiling as if thanking someone before speaking: "Finally... Thank you," He directed himself to the two and the door opened for them. "I will be able to sleep now."

The two mechs shared some looks but said nothing as the gargoyle mumbled that the other little one will be busy sleeping for once.

They just entered the last chamber, this one was big and round, and in the centre was a big sphere that looked like a stone... A graceless stone.

However, on top of it was a smaller object, a round, blue and shiny sphere with gold around it.

The Allspark!

They looked at it for a moment before Thundercracker hurried towards the little bright stone with gold and took it before taking it to Skywarp.

"Come on... Now Warp... You will heal." He said before another door opened and...

"Ugh..."

They looked and saw...

"Star!" The two conscious mechs exclaimed and hurried towards him.

"Look, the Allspark!" Exclaimed Thundercracker while showing him the bright object.

However the tri-coloured seeker was surprised of seeing them there.

"How... How did you...?" He tried to understand how the three got there and completely harmless... While he was passing through the most terrifying and disgusting things.

But Skywarp was more important.

"Now... How does this works?" He asked while trying to open the relic. However it was not opening.

As they continued trying to open the thing, another thing distracted them.. The distinctive sound of a wall breaking and falling apart in pieces.

When the dust cleared, the one they feared and hoped to never see inside the temple, appeared...

"Well, well, well..." He said with a nasty grin plastered on his faceplates. "I have to come myself here to find the ones that dared to defy me."

He particularly looked at Starscream and stared as if approving every little piece if him... Also as if wishing to eat him from the inside out... To drink from his fluid until he was left dry.

The thought caused an unpleasant shiver in Starscream.

"What a waste... To use such powerful artefact in an ill and dying bunch of scraps," The Warlord hissed the last part with disgust in his tone.

"He is not a bunch of scraps!" Starscream exclaimed shrilly, pointing a finger at the smirking Mech. "You will not speak of him like that."

"I will say what I please Seeker," Galvatron declared, taking a step forward. "Now, if you have any sense, you will surrender the AllSpark to me and I will be merciful."

"And what kind of mercy is that?" Thundercracker demanded, clutching Skywarp close to his chest.

"I let you live," Galvatron said in a sinister voice. "To be my slaves and serve me faithfully. Or incur my wrath."

"We will never serve you," Skyfire growled. "We have had enough of thankless, dead-end jobs. Unlike you, we only wish to save this Seeker's life, not cease more power."

"Such limited imagination," Galvatron said in contempt. "Why not take power for yourself and save his worthless hide? There is so much more you could have."

"We don't want power," Starscream said, putting a lot of emphasis on 'want'. "The only thing we need or want is our brother safe and healthy. Why don't you show a modicum of decency and let us save him. You already have Cybertron, what more do you want?"

"More," whispered Galvatron, his voice now rising. "I want more Seeker, planets, energy, resources, slaves, I want more of it all. And you could share in it my pretty little Seeker."

He smiled and said. "Be mine and you will know comfort and pleasure. I would even be willing to give the others decent positions if you would only submit to me willing."

"What about Warp?" Starscream asked coolly, standing in front of the others and hoping they could perhaps solve the AllSpark's secret so they could save Skywarp.

"He is already lost," Galvatron said with contempt. "But I had thought of bringing back some of my soldiers, maybe I will give him back life."

The red Seeker shook his head.

"I doubt you would keep your word," he said quietly. "I will never be yours willing and you will not take the AllSpark just to enslave others."

"And how do you plan on doing that?" Galvatron questioned, his canon powering up ominously.

"I will fight you," growled Starscream, gesturing for the others to hand him their sole weapon.

"You think you can beat me?" Galvatron asked with a mocking laugh. "I fought my way through this temple, defeated everything thrown at me and you, a mere Seeker can stop me?"

"Yes," the Seeker said simply.

Galvatron laughed again before bringing up his weapon and firing. Starscream lunged out of the way and started powering up his own weapon, launching himself into the air. Skyfire passed Skywarp to Thundercracker and said. "I will help him, you save Warp."

"Okay," Thundercracker said uncertainly. He had no idea how to activate the AllSpark, did you have to open it? Just hold it and make your wish?

"Uh….how do I do this?" he mumbled, holding Skywarp close as his brother whimpered. He tried fiddling with the artefact but nothing was happening. It had what appeared to be handles on either side of it and he grasped these to pull it apart. But the object remained stubbornly closed and he was starting to feel desperate.

Meanwhile, Galvatron was blasting at both Skyfire and Starscream who dodged and in the Seeker's case, fired back. Of course, their weapon wasn't as powerful as the warlords but at least it was light and easy to aim. Galvatron snarled as a shot grazed his arm and he charged forward, managing to punch Skyfire in the abdomen and then in the face. The shuttle crashed to the ground with a cry of pain and Galvatron smirked with pleasure, lifting up his foot, ready to deliver a harsh kick. However, he was hit in the side as Starscream barrelled into him, sending both of them flying.

Starscream started to hit and punch him with both fists and blaster, desperate to subdue the powerful Mech. Galvatron groaned before growling and grabbing Starscream, ready to deliver his own beating when a long moan interrupted them. Turning, they saw Skywarp shuddering violently in Thundercracker's arms. He stopped shuddering but his colour had greyed dramatically.

"Tee...ceee...," Skywarp moaned before his body suddenly convulsed and then he was still. His optics dimmed and his body started to steadily lose even more colour.

"Warp?" Thundercracker whispered as everyone stared, Skyfire moving to pull Starscream away who rushed to his brother. Galvatron didn't move, he just wished with disinterest.

"Hnn," the youngest Seeker brother choked out before the light in his optics went out and he went completely still.

"No...Warp...no," Starscream said brokenly, clutching at his brother's limp, greying body.

"Worthless wretch," Galvatron spat as he shoved Skyfire aside. "If he hadn't offlined, I would have personally crushed his weak Spark."

"He can't be gone," whispered Skyfire, optics wide with disbelief.

"Well he is," sneered Galvatron, getting to his feet as the two Seekers started to cry over their dead brother. He marched over and seized the forgotten artefact, bringing it up with relish.

"You couldn't even get it to work for you," he laughed harshly. "Weak, pathetic fools."

Skyfire just knelt there, tears falling down his cheeks as he stared at the grey body he'd been desperate to save. That young Seeker had not deserved such a death, not when they'd been so close.

As they all mourned over Skywarp's body, Galvatron now tried to deduce how to open the Allspark... Which was not so cooperative.

"Come on... You stupid relic!" He howled in frustration before finally throwing it away with force against the big, dull and dark, rounded rock...

...which once received the impact opened as if was a flower, and a bigger, much brighter sphere of energy was revealed.

The four mechs stared agape at it for the first time.

"The real Allspark!" Gasped Galvatron before walking towards it. "I can feel it's power! And it is all mine!" He declared.

Just as he finished those words, and before anyone can even try to stop the tyrant, the Allspark brightened with such intensity that left them all blind for a moment...

...and Skyfire could swear he could hear the object growl in annoyance or anger, followed by Galvatron's screams.

When the lights faded, seconds later, they were still blinded.

"Skyfire?" Tried Starscream.

"Yeah?"

"Can you see anything?"

"No... What the frag was that? And... What we got was not the Allspark?" Skyfire said trying to recalibrate his optics to no use. They will recover within the next minutes.

"I'm blind!" Cried Thundercracker. "I've lost Warp and to add to that I'm blind!"

"Oww, come on, TC, shut up!" Hissed his younger brother as he too waited for his sight to return.

But then they could hear something.

"What was that?" Asked the shuttle.

"I'm blind! That's what is happening!" Lamented himself again the blue seeker before feeling a hand touching him around before feeling the back of his helm being petted before a hard smack hit him. "Hey!"

"Shut up, TC!" Starscream hissed as the little sound returned...

...sounded like chirps and... Sobs?

"Gah!" Starscream then yelled as felt that something was grabbing him by one leg... And that said something was chirping happily. "What is this?! Take it off!" He screamed taking -roughly- whatever was grabbing him and tossed it away; after all he was quite traumatised after experiencing all kind of beings grabbing him.

The thing fell away and soon started crying... A cry that sounded like...

Their sights started returning, however were still little foggy, and Starscream could devise the little crying thing crawling fast towards him before grabbing his arm this time and ceased its' crying, turning them into sobs and incomprehensible chirps.

"Star... Is that a...?" Tried Skyfire while calibrating his optics. "...a sparkling?!"

The white seeker looked down at the chirping creature before taking it in arms and rise it up above his head to examine it further.

It wiggled in his hands until it got lose and then jumped Starscream and hugged him by the neck chirping happily.

"And who is that? Another test?" Asked an incredulous Thundercracker.

"I don't believe he is a test." Another voice suddenly said startling them and looked at a blurry Alpha Trion standing next them.

"Alpha... Trion?" Tried the blue seeker not yet believing what his optics allowed him to see. "Am I hallucinating?"

"Then we are all hallucinating, TC." Answered sarcastically his brother.

Thundercracker shot his brother a glare, still clutching Skywarp's body as he tried to focus on something that wasn't his overwhelming grief. Something Starscream was probably doing.

"What a cute little fellow," the old Mech now said conversationally as the sparkling continued to chirp and purr. "He seems very attached to you."

"By where in the universe did he come from?" demanded Starscream, trying to get a better look at the purple sparkling hugging him...wait, purple?

"Oh Primus," he yelped, making his two companions jump. "I think this is Galvatron!"

"Galvatron, are you serious?" gasped Skyfire, hardly able to believe such a thing.

"Well look at him," Starscream said in exasperation.

They did and could see the resemblance to the warlord. Except this tiny Sparkling was a lot cuter and appeared to have no malice about it.

"The...the AllSpark transformed him," Skyfire said in amazement as Thundercracker blurted out. "But why?"

"Perhaps as a fitting punishment for all he's done," surmised Alpha Trion. "I imagine this is a state he would hate most strongly...and this is a chance for him to grow up doing good for the universe rather than trying to perpetrate evil."

The little former warlord just chirped contentedly.

"Oh," Starscream said, a little nonplussed. "I suppose that makes sense..."

He trailed off as his optics found his younger brother and tears fell down his face. The sparkling seemed to sense his distress and looked up, chirping curiously as he touched his face. Starscream blinked rapidly before gently pushing away the sparkling's hand.

"We failed," he whispered. "After everything we went through, we failed."

"Have you?" questioned Alpha Trion.

"Well...yes," Starscream said in confusion. "Warp is dead and the AllSpark has already been used."

"I wouldn't be so sure," the old Mech said with a small smile. "The question is, do you truly want to use it?"

"Of course," Thundercracker exclaimed in outrage. "How could you suggest such a thing?"

The ancient Mech just smiled and said. "Then prove it. Go and touch the AllSpark."

He gestured at the still glowing sphere. The fliers stared for a moment before Thundercracker suddenly got up, lifting up his brother's cooling body.

"I will prove it," he declared passionately.

"So will I," Starscream announced before glancing down awkwardly at the sparkling. "Perhaps you could hold him?"

Alpha Trion smiled and nodded, holding out his arms. With a little difficulty, Starscream managed to transfer the sparkling who protested and wriggled, trying to get back to the Seeker he seemed to adore. Skyfire also struggled to his feet, Skywarp might not be his brother but he wished him back all the same. Together, the three of them walked to the sphere of energy, barely hearing Galvatron's chirps. Briefly, they glanced at each other before reaching as one and touching it.

Instantly a bright white light filled the room, almost blinding them but at the same time, filling them with energy. Something touched their sparks, seeking out their true intentions before wrapping them in kind warmth. They all gasped at the sensation but it was not meant to harm them and a few moments later, the glow disappeared, leaving them blinking. Unlike before, they could see almost instantly, they were just a little taken aback by what had happened.

"Uh..."

The sound drew their attention and they stared as the youngest Seeker moved, colour flooding his form as his optics onlined and he coughed.

"What...what happened?" he questioned, his voice considerably stronger than it had been before. "Star...TC?"

"Ah, pure Sparks," Alpha Trion said with satisfaction as the two Seekers let out wails of joy before clasping their surprised brother to them. Skyfire was weeping tears of joy as he hugged all three of them.

"Waah, gnah, gnah!" The sparkling in Alpha Trion was still struggling with the old mech and distracted the three fliers from their moment who looked how the little one...

"Gaaah!"

Bit hard one of the old mech's hands successfully releasing him and now he was crawling at top speed towards the group.

"And who's that one?" Asked Skywarp for the sparkling who ignored them completely and climbed his way up to Starscream's neck again to hug him, not before reaching for his face and kissing him several times on his cheek.

The other two exchanged glances.

"Hey! He looks like old Galvy!" Suddenly Skywarp deduced before gasping and yelping in horror. "Star! Don't tell me he hurt you!" He barely squeaked.

"What?" The other three fliers asked at the same time not understanding what he said.

"My poor brother, that bastard dared to force himself in you and above that all sparked you with his spawn!" Cried the purple seeker while hugging his brother close. "I'll kill him when I see him, no one does that to my brother!" He continued. "I'll rip off his spike and... And..."

"Warp..." Finally the three understood what the younger seeker thought. "He didn't hurt me."

"How not? Look! Here is the product of his rape!" Now Skywarp cried brokenly not letting him go.

Now even the sparkling seemed interested in the purple flier hugging them.

"Skywarp, that's Galvatron," Said Thundercracker in a dull voice to see if his brother understands that Star was not abused.

"You named him after his sire?! Why Star, why? I would have named him 'Little monster' or 'Horrible accident' or-"

"Warp!" Starscream now barked while losing his patience and successfully silencing his brother.

"This is Galvatron, THE Galvatron, the fragging tyrant who was after us and just a few minutes ago was old and... Not cute at all!"

Skywarp tilted his head to the side as not getting it.

"The Allspark made him a sparkling and only Primus knows why!" Starscream howled in exasperation.

After that there was only silence, even the Allspark seemed to be in silence and staring at the funny scene.

Little Galvatron by now was sucking on his thumb as he looked at Skywarp trying to understand what was wrong with him.

"Wh- come again?" Tried said purple seeker while blinking rapidly his optics.

Starscream just face palmed himself.

The others rolled his optics.

"I didn't know your brother was so deep and thick helmed," whispered Skyfire to Thundercracker who nodded in quite worry for his brother and his stupid behaviour.

"Ahem...," Alpha Trion cleared his voice causing the sparkling to tighten his grip on Starscream and chirp at him defiantly.

"And who's the walking relic?" Suddenly Skywarp asked for Alpha Trion. "Ouch!"

And this time Thundercracker smacked the back of his helm. "Show more respect, Warp!"

The sparkling giggled at that causing the purple seeker to look down at him in indignation.

"Watch it brat," he exclaimed, pointing a finger. "I'm bigger than you now."

Galvatron responded by grabbing his finger and stuffing it into his mouth.

"Ahh! Get him off!" yelped Skywarp, flapping his other hand wildly as Starscream pulled the sparkling away with extreme exasperation.

"Did you see that?" Skywarp demanded. "He attacked me."

"Don't be so silly, he's just a sparkling," Starscream scolded. "I'd almost forgotten how ridiculous you are."

"Come on, you know you love me," his little brother responded with a silly grin.

His elder brother glared before softening.

"Sadly true," he sighed before hugging him, Thundercracker joining in.

Skyfire smiled fondly before saying. "I don't believe we've been properly introduced. I am Skyfire, I carried you all here."

"And that is Alpha Trion," Thundercracker added sternly. "The one who told us about the AllSpark, it's thanks to him that you are alive."

"Oh," Skywarp said, his mouth forming the letter. "I uh...sorry about calling you..."

"An old relic?" the elder asked, amusement on his face. "That's quite alright young one."

The black and purple Seeker smiled, maybe this old Mech wasn't so bad after all. Better than the little monster anyway.

"Primus, I'm tired," Starscream now sighed. "I could sleep for a week, you've no idea what I had I had to go through to get here. Giant spider, swamps, fire pits..."

"Really?" Skyfire asked. "We mostly were given riddles."

Starscream groaned in annoyance, how typical was that?

"So...," Skywarp said slowly. "What are we gonna do now?"

"I am not sure," Skyfire said slowly. "I wonder if there's anything left of Galvatron's people."

"I believe he may have left some bots to guard his ship," Alpha Trion spoke up. "They will have to be informed of their leader's...resignation. As long as they mean no harm, there is no reason why they could not return home."

"That's true," Thundercracker said. "I don't suppose all those working for him were like Cyclonus...they could just be simple technicians."

"Here's a bigger problem," Starscream said softly. "What about the sparkling?"

Said sparkling, as if knowing the conversation was about him, looked up at everyone with a big smile and sparking optics.

"Aww, he's cute, give him credit for that." Alpha Trion said touching the little one's nose with his finger before quickly pulling it away as he almost bit him again.

"Yeah, but what are we gonna do with him?" Asked again Skyfire.

And again, as if understanding, little Galvatron chirped happily while hugging Starscream tighter as if saying: 'I will stay with him'.

Silence followed as they looked at the creature claiming the white seeker as his for a moment. Not even Skywarp had a remark for that.

The purple seeker thought it was odd and terrifying to have Galvatron of all mechs to have such deep crush on you... And at such young age! Especially since said spawn was dangerous.

The sparkling then started singing happily to their amusement as he cuddled against Starscream.

"I wonder why he's so attached to you?" Wondered out loud Alpha Trion causing the shuttle and blue seeker to flinch. They had a pretty good idea why.

"I don't know, he said, before attacking us, that he wanted me to join him, that's all," Answered Starscream with honesty.

"Is that it?" Asked the eldest lifting an optic ridge.

Starscream just nodded... However it had to be Skywarp the one who deduced what the others knew...

"Maybe old Galvy already wanted to frag Star! He was infatuated by you long ago!"

Thick silence followed again, no one dared to speak. Then Starscream -just as silently- turned on his heel, walked towards the Allspark and said: "We're really thankful for all your help, mighty Allspark, but please, can you show us the exit? I will love a good rest now... Especially with my little brother's stupid remarks."

"Hey!" Said dark seeker squeaked in indignation.

The Allspark seemed to chuckle at that -somehow- and then a passageway was revealed for them. An exit.

Bowing once again to the ancient relic, the tri-coloured seeker walked towards it. The others following suit.

The last one on leaving was Alpha Trion, who looked at the Allspark and grinned: "I bet you had fun like in the good old days."

The Allspark remained in silence, but the old bot knew better, it was laughing for its' insides.

...

When they reached the surface, they saw Galvatron's soldiers' bodies being consumed by the earth and organic plants.

"Uhhh...creepy," Skywarp said shivering as they walked away towards the place they felt there were still surviving cybertronians.

They could see Cyclonus' helm being absorbed by one branch that tightened its' hold on it.

Out of instinct, Starscream covered the sparkling's optics.

He had no idea how much Galvatron might have cared about them, perhaps for a few there was some feeling but this was not a sight for Sparklings. The little one was showing no signs that he remembered his former life apart from the fact that he was attached to Starscream himself. But there was no anger or any malicious behaviour, he was acting like a normal sparkling. And this was something no sparkling deserved to see.

"Urgh, I'm glad that's not us," Skywarp said with a shudder. "What the heck did I miss?"

"Trust me," Skyfire said softly, gently supporting Starscream as he made sure the squirming sparkling couldn't see anything. "There was not much that you would have liked to have seen or experienced."

"Guess that's true," mused the young Seeker, this place had a real creepy vibe to it.

"Where are we going?" asked Thundercracker, walking quickly to get out of the graveyard.

"To Galvatron's ship," Starscream stated. "We will see how we are dealing with and then decide from there. He probably took the majority of his soldiers with him."

"What if they wish to take him?" his brother asked, gesturing at the sparkling whose optics were no longer covered but Starscream wasn't letting him look over his shoulder. "Or try to harm him?"

"We won't allow that," was the instant answer. "None of us here had any liking for that tyrant but that doesn't mean I'll allow anyone to harm this Sparkling. He is an innocent right now and needs protection not punishment."

"Hmm," Thundercracker hummed in agreement. The more time spent with the sparkling, the less you remembered what he used to be. It was almost as though Galvatron really had died and they'd just discovered an abandoned child.

Nothing bothered them on the journey to the warlord's ship, it appeared the planet was honouring Starscream's request to allow them to leave. The forest had a rather innocent look to it, almost like it was pretending it was completely ordinary and wouldn't try to kill you in a moment. They were a little tense but relaxed slightly when no surprises jumped out at them.

They did jump when little Galvatron started chirping and pawing at Starscream, something was exciting him.

"Is he alright?" questioned Skyfire as Thundercracker groaned, the sooner they left this planet, the better. That sudden squeal of sound in the previously quiet wood had almost given him a spark attack.

"I think so," Starscream said slowly, lifting the sparkling up and examining them. "He's not ill...I think he might be hungry."

"Hungry?" exclaimed Skywarp. "You know, I'm starting to feel a bit peckish..."

"We'll eat after we get there," his brother told him. "I have no desire to linger any longer than is necessary."

"Fine, but we'd better eat as soon," Skywarp stated. "My insides are rumbling."

"You're always hungry," Thundercracker said with a roll of his optics. "If it was possible, you'd eat twice as much as Skyfire requires."

"Hey, I'm a growing Mech," the purple Mech declared, patting his abdomen. "I need my energy."

Both his brothers now rolled their optics, before little Galvatron stuck out his little glossa at Skywarp.

"Hey! Did you see that?!" He tried to accuse the sparkling with the elders, but they just saw an innocent and wide look... And then directed their glares to the purple seeker. "Little monster," He mumbled under his breath.

As they continued, they reached the clear in which the warlord's ship rested, and...

"Who's there?! Identify yourselves!" A mech demanded pointing the gun towards them.

"We're friends, you don't need to worry." Said Skyfire gently.

They then walked towards the ship with their hands held up... However Starscream had little Galvatron held up who squeaked in joy at being held so high.

The two mechs in the ship looked at each other. Those were definitely the mechs their lord was after...

...but a sparkling was with them.

"And who's the child?" Asked one of the soldiers.

"We found him here... Abandoned." Answered Skyfire. It was a half-truth after all.

The soldiers stared, completely confused by this turn of events.

"We know nothing about this child," one of the Mechs finally said as Starscream settled the little one in his arms again.

"Then I guess he's our responsibility," the Seeker mused before casually throwing out. "The others are dead and your leader failed to gain the AllSpark."

They all gasped in shock, all of their comrades gone? And Lord Galvatron...

"L-lord Galvatron is dead too?" one asked in a whisper of disbelief.

"He tried to force the AllSpark to give him what he wanted...and disappeared in a huge ball of light," Starscream said with a shrug. "You here were all lucky, this planet is alive and it kills without mercy."

"Cyclonus was cut in half and didn't even die straight away," Thundercracker spoke up with a shiver, causing many of the soldiers to shudder. "I would not try to take that treasure."

"But you survived," someone couldn't help but say.

"We did but trust me, it was not easy. We had to fight our way through and there were plenty of instances where we almost perished. In the end, it was partly our respect for the power that resides here that got us through. But we would strongly advise leaving rather than taking your chances."

Several soldiers nodded, uneasily glancing at places where their fallen comrades had been swallowed up.

"But who will lead us now?" One of them suddenly questioned. "The planet is going to descend into chaos."

The fliers all looked at each other, except for the sparkling who just cuddled into Starscream's warm armour. This was a very good question.

"Someone else will need to be found," Skyfire said simply. "Things are bad enough on Cybertron without a civil war being thrown into the mix."

Everyone nodded.

"Look," Starscream suddenly said. "Your original mission is over and I'm sure you all want to return home without being turned into compost by this planet. Do you have any objection to us staying with you?"

They all glanced at each other. Without a leader, a rather controlling one at that, they were rather at a loss what to do. These fliers had survived this planet and seemed to know what they were doing. Why not stick with them?

"No, I suppose not," one of them said. "You'd better come abroad."

As they climbed the ramp, a young one asked. "Are you sure he's not coming back?"

"Hundred percent," Answered Starscream watching down how the sparkling yawned cutely while showing his pointy little fangs, then fell asleep while cuddling better.

As they all entered the ship, Alpha Trion came and gave the sparkling something like a flower, the little one sniffed at it in his sleep and sucked on the thing.

Everyone gasped.

"What is that?" Asked one of the soldiers before Starscream could even open his mouth.

"Fuel, for the sparkling," Answered the old mech, and as if reading his thoughts, he added: "I've asked for the planet for some since he seemed hungry before."

The soldiers, plus the four fliers shivered. That was creepy. The planet is alive AND conscious!

"We better leave, now," Ordered Starscream and the soldiers, recognizing authority, obeyed and powered on the ship to abandon this place. "To Cybertron."

"Yes sir!" They chorused.

Alpha Trion smiled and petted the odd, shiny artefact the others once believed it was the Allspark. It didn't reacted. Alpha Trion sighed.

"It seems he have the gift of leadership, but is not interested in using it he'd rather live his life," Concluded the elder for himself and the relic he'd taken with permission of the Allspark.

Minutes later they were leaving the planet's atmosphere, but before arriving Cybertron, they will need to make a little stop.

Starscream had assumed a sort of temporary command of the ship, thankfully all the Mechs who might have tried to take over appeared to have died on the planet. He sat in Galvatron's chair, holding a contented Sparkling against his chest having just told those flying the ship to head to the moonbase where they'd stopped previously.

"I can't believe this," Skyfire murmured by his side, sipping on a cube of Energon. Skywarp and Thundercracker were lying down, they were feeling rather drained by what had happened. Starscream and Skyfire were also tired but since they were sitting and refuelling, were feeling a lot better. Alpha Trion was just staring out of the viewscreen with interest while bots busied themselves about.

"Neither can I but it's not quite over yet," stated the Seeker, stroking little Galvatron as he slept. "We just planned to flee once we cured Warp but we can't just abandon our planet. Somehow, we need to help find a new leader."

Skyfire shook his head in wonder. "I'm not complaining about being a passenger rather than the transport but I fear I won't be much help for this next mission."

"You may surprise yourself," Starscream told him with a grin. "Speaking of surprises...I was thinking of renaming this little one."

"Ah, that's a good idea," agreed Skyfire. "He can't grow up properly if bots hate him for his previous life...or continually judge him. What name shall you call him?"

"I was thinking of...Megatron," Starscream suggested. "After the thirteenth Prime Megatronus, it is a good name to live up to."

"Megatron," Skyfire tried, testing the name out. "Yes, I like it, you should go with that."

"Thank you," the Seeker said with a smile as a young Mech came over.

"Sir, we have a list of our stored components," he said, handing Starscream a list.

"Thanks, go and have a rest," the defacto leader recommended and the Mech gratefully obeyed.

"Anything good to trade?" Skyfire asked as Starscream scanned it, smiling in satisfaction.

"I believe so."

...

"Can't you give that little monster up?" Skywarp was saying as they disembarked onto Galvatron's landing pad.

"No," Starscream said shortly. "Drop it Warp, I need to concentrate this."

They had finally landed on Cybertron, having successfully made contact with Smokescreen and letting him know it would soon be much safer to resume his trade on their home planet. Starscream was more or less still in charge as no one else wanted to take responsibility. This could not last, they needed to find someone else and fast.

They were met by a red and blue Minibot who stood waiting for them.

"Where is Lord Galvatron?" he questioned, optics finding the little sparkling's and frowning slightly. As though he saw the resemblance to the former tyrant.

"Gone," Starscream said simply. "He won't be returning."

The Mech closed his optics, a look of both relief and worry crossed his face.

"I don't believe this...I didn't dare to hope that perhaps he wouldn't return but..."

He glanced back at some of the guards who were looking confused.

"What now?" he said simply.

"I'm not sure," Starscream admitted. "Who are you?"

"I'm one of his aides' aide," the Mech said wryly. "He has been taking advantage of Galvatron's absence so it was left to me to greet you."

"I see," the Seeker said slowly. "Then perhaps you can help us find someone else to take over."

"I can do my best," the Mech replied. "But I'm afraid most of his aides will simply fight among themselves and try to seize power. And I would not deem any of them suitable for full leadership...a more minor roles yes for some but not full leadership."

"Why is that?" Skyfire asked.

"They...," the Mech hesitated before saying. "They just don't have our whole planet's best interests at spark...even the best of them will favour a certain part of the population over the other. I don't know how any of them could really improve things here, we need radical regeneration without so much emphasis on the caste system."

Starscream raised an optic brow, this aide's aide was a very passionate bot as he continued. Just as an idea was acquiring to him, Alpha Trion suddenly appeared.

"What would you do, young one?" he asked and the mech paused.

"Me?" he said in surprise. "Well...I would try to review our planet's problems I suppose and try to work on solving them. Goodness knows, we need more energon, education and jobs for the general populace, it would not be an easy task but if we concentrated on it and didn't just keep absolute power, I believe it is possible."

"Excellent," Alpha Trion said warmly. "Would you hold this for me, young Mech?"

"Oh...uh, yes sir," the Mech said in bemusement, taking the two handled object and looking down at it in confusion.

It suddenly glowed and he gave an exclamation of surprise,, accidentally tugging on the handles which pulled the object apart and glowed even brighter as it rose. Starscream quickly shielded Megatron's optics from the bright glow as he and everyone else stared in amazement as the bot before them glowed brightly and seemed to glow. A few moments later, the glow had vanished and before them stood a tall, regal looking red and blue Mech who was no longer holding the AllSpark relic. Half of his face was now covered by a facemask and he seemed completely shocked.

"What...what happened?" he questioned, his voice now a deep baritone. He was no Minibot now.

"You have been chosen," Alpha Trion said conversationally, as though nothing extraordinary had happened. "Tell me, what was your name?"

"It...it is Orion Pax," the Mech murmured, staring at his large hands.

"It is now Optimus Prime," Alpha Trion said. "You will be the new leader."

"But...I...," the poor overwhelmed Mech stammered. "I cannot be...I just a lowly secretary."

"But one who cares deeply for his planet...and that is what is needed," the old Mech told him. "You not only care, you have ideas about improving things around here."

"What about my mate?" the new Prime questioned as those around continued to gape although Megatron was just chirping curiously at the new figure.

"As leader, you could easily have several mates," Alpha Trion said casually.

"No, I love only her," the former Orion Pax said outraged. "I am not building myself a harem."

"You really are perfect," chuckled the old Mech and Starscream had the feeling the new Prime would get very exasperation with this old Mech.

"To answer your question," Alpha Trion now said. "If she is worthy, then the Matrix of Leadership may grant her a new body as well...so she can be a proper companion and leader as well."

"I do not believe this," Optimus Prime mumbled as Thundercracker now spoke up. "Trust me, neither do we."

"What am I gonna say to her when she sees me like this?" The now Optimus said almost desperate. "She may not recognise me!"

"If she loves you, she will recognize you," Said the old mech to a really worried leader,

"I... I need to see her, she needs to know!" He finished and with that ran away before transforming and hurried away leaving behind four stupefied fliers and an amused old Alpha Trion.

...

The next day they've seen the same mech, Optimus Prime along with a beautiful, pink femme.

"Wow! That's a piece of femme!" Skywarp whistled at her before once again received a smack on the back of his head. "Ouch! hey!" He whined when saw the one who gave it to him...

... Skyfire, who looked down at him with a frown. "More respect!"

But before the purple seeker could remark at him, the couple came to the group.

"Hey, Optimus, how was it after all?" Asked Starscream while holding a dinking little Megatron in arms.

Both Optimus and his mate looked at each other and then at them; then he said.

"It went well... when I've reached our apartment I heard a loud scream and when I entered, I've found my once beautiful mate being transformed into this gorgeous goddess," He said this looking down at her, his eyes shining in love for her.

Hers reciprocated his look and her beautiful face flushed. "Oh, Optimus, you always exaggerating." then looked down at Starscream's arms and saw the little creature in there. "Oh! What a cute little thing! Can I hold him?"

The four fliers flinched. "I don't think that's safe. ma'am... He bites" Tried the blue seeker but she insisted.

Immediately the once calmed sparkling tensed and looked at the femme defiantly.

"Let me hold you, little cutie," She tried opening her arms, and to their surprise he seemed interested and allowed her to take him... and soon was cuddling on her chest happily sniffing at her scent.

"Damn! She must smell really good! Well, if she looks like thaaa-! Ouch!" Again someone hit the back of his helm, his blue brother.

"Awww, so cute you are... but somehow you look familiar." She said causing the four to flinch.

Optimus glanced at them but didn't press it. He had his own suspicions about the identity of the sparkling but had decided he would not at this time enquire about it. Instead he smiled warmly behind his mask as he watched his mate cuddle the little Sparkling.

"What is this little cutie's name," the beautiful femme asked.

"I've named him Megatron," Starscream explained. "You're very good with him, do you have sparklings?"

"No," she said with a sigh. "Orion and I were always too busy for it and our employers did not approve."

"I'm sorry," he said softly. "But you know...this little sparkling could use a good home."

They all stared at him in amazement.

"Really?" she gasped as little Megatron looked up with a curious chirp.

"Yes," Starscream said with a smile. "He's attached to me but I'm single and he needs a proper family. I would be happy to babysit for you and so would my brothers."

Thundercracker sniggered as Skywarp looked horrified at the idea. Megatron still never missed an opportunity to bite him. Skyfire also could not help but smile, it was cute how the sparkling just wanted to be around Starscream.

"By the way, I don't think we've been properly introduced," Starscream now said and the young femme nodded.

"I used to be called Ariel," she said. "But now I am Elita One. Thank you for helping get rid of Galvatron."

"It wasn't entirely on purpose," Thundercracker mumbled making her chuckle.

"So I've heard from Alpha Trion," she admitted. "But nonetheless, thank you."

The fliers all nodded before Starscream gently stroked Megatron's head. He'd become rather attached to the little one, he made a sweet sparkling. But as he'd said, he felt the sparkling deserved a proper family unit...with perhaps some uncles he could visit. As Megatron looked up at him with a happy chirp, he said gently.

"Megatron, would you like to have Elita One for your mummy?"

The sparkling considered the question before purring with pleasure and snuggling further into the pink femme's armour. She smiled broadly as her mate put his arm around her.

"If she's your mummy, then I'll be your daddy," the large Mech told the sparkling. "Is that to your liking?"

He held out a hand to test the sparkling's reactions to it. The sparkling sniffed it and everyone tensed, worried he was going to snap. However, he just grabbed one of Optimus's fingers and inserted it into his mouth but rather than bite, he just started sucking. They all relaxed and Elita beamed widely, pleased that he'd accepted her beloved.

"Good boy," she praised, lifting him up and kissing him, causing him to squeal with laughter. "You're going to be my sweet little boy."

"Thank you," Optimus said warmly, offering his hand to Starscream who shook it. "Can we count on your help to reorganise our planet?"

Starscream glanced at his two brothers and Skyfire before nodding with a smile. "Anything we can do to help, Prime."

"Good," The Prime's optics seemed to smile with him. "Because we have a lot to work on."

The seekers nodded... Except Skywarp who was mocking the sparkling behind Starscream's back... And to his surprise, he ignored him while snuggling onto Elita's chest again, causing the purple seeker to pout.

He wishes he can snuggle against a gorgeous femme's chest like that too... Perhaps the Allspark can transform him into a sparkling so his wish will come true?

As he considered this idea, Starscream and the others talked for their plans for the future completely ignoring Skywarp's idea...

...and anyways, he will never return to that planet again just to be turned into compost like the others.

Shaking off his head from those thoughts, he started paying attention to the other's conversation.

….

Epilogue

"You two are crazy," Skywarp declared, shaking his head with folded arms.

"So you've mentioned," Starscream said dryly. "Several times today alone."

"Well, it needed to be said," Skywarp said with a grin. "And I'll happily say it again, you two are crazy."

"Thank you," Starscream said, running his optics down his check list, carefully checking each item. "Where is Thundercracker?"

"I dunno," his brother said with a shrug. "Probably still drooling over his new job."

Starscream smiled at this, ever since their return to the planet, things were so much better. Of course, it hadn't happened over night, it had taken time to rearrange things but they had come such a long way from the oppressive cycles of Galvatron. Optimus Prime had indeed turned out to be a good leader who had used the former tyrant's wealth to help lower Energon prices and increase the overall quality. They had then set in motion several strategies for getting the average Cybertronian better education and more equal opportunities for jobs.

Not everyone had been pleased, there had been those who'd profited greatly under Galvatron's reign and would have happily continued with the way things had been. A lot of diplomacy had been needed as well as some unshakeable leadership. Alpha Trion had quietly given the young leader advice while the fliers had also done their part to help things along. One area had been making contact with Smokescreen who had proved happy to help the new Prime, even bringing new trade to the planet. He'd made himself wealthy by doing this but it couldn't be denied he'd invigorated commerce.

Some of his bots even decided to settle back on Cybertron, with the large red Mech named Ironhide becoming the new Prime's bodyguard. He seemed to feel he'd see more action on Cybertron than he'd been seeing in space. Many other things had taken place but far too numerous to mention.

But now things were settled and now the fliers could follow their own paths.

There was a woosh of engines and they looked up to see a blue jet soaring overhead. He turned sharply and aimed straight for them, smoothly transforming at the last moment and lightly skidding to a stop right in front of them. His armour gleaming in the bright sunlight, he smiled his wide smile and said.

"Sorry I'm late, I was chatting to someone and lost track of time."

"That Femme again?" Starscream asked with a smirk. "Primus, when are you just going to ask her out?"

"We're friends," Thundercracker said pointedly as Skywarp sniggered. "Sure you are...and Skyfire doesn't fancy Screamer."

Now it was Thundercracker's turn to laugh as Starscream glared at his younger brother. Skyfire had become closer to the three brothers but no one could deny that he'd become far closer to one in particular. Thundercracker and Skywarp were placing bets with their friends as to when Skyfire would 'pop the question.'

"So," Starscream said with a smile. "Still enjoying working in the medical field?"

"I'm not medic," laughed Thundercracker. "You know I just assist with the patients care."

"But you like it?" Skyfire asked, already knowing the answer.

"Yes, it feels good," Thundercracker sighed before glancing around. "You know, I'm surprised a certain someone hasn't turned up to say goodbye."

"You mean you're surprised there is someone later than you?" Skywarp teased even as the shuttle spotted approaching vehicles.

"Not by much," he chuckled and gesturing so that the three Seeker brothers turned to see a large blue and red armoured transport came towards them, followed by a pink one.

Starscream already had a fond smile on his face as their two friends pulled to a stop and a small purple and grey figure jumped out of his father's cab.

"Star! Star!" it cried, rushing over and jumping into the middle Seeker's arms.

"Megatron, I thought you wouldn't make it," he laughed as the still young sparkling cuddled into him.

"No go," the sparkling scolded, holding on tightly. "Stay."

"I got a good scolding about being late for your take off," Optimus laughed as he transformed with his mate. "He was bouncing up and down the whole time."

"Aww, was daddy not going fast enough?" Starscream chuckled.

"No go," Megatron insisted, he couldn't bare for his favourite uncle to leave for what seemed to the little sparkling, forever.

"We've talked about this little one, this is something I need to do," the Seeker told the sparkling seriously. "But I promise to keep in touch and bring you something special back."

"Me go?" Megatron asked hopefully, a proposition he'd already offered several times before this day.

"Someday," Starscream assured him, giving his cheek a little kiss. "But right now, I need you to look after my brothers or they'll get into too much trouble. Especially your uncle Warp."

Everyone laughed at the purple Seeker's pout.

"Promise?" the innocent sparkling with wide optics asked, so different from his former self. To prevent suspicion, he'd been given a slightly different paint job and also have a few cosmetic features changed. To everyone, he was the Prime's adoptive son and thus, had been very well treated by the public in general. Being such a cute little sparkling, most bots fell in love with him anyway, regardless of his status.

"I promise," Starscream said softly, handing him back to his father. Resigned, Megatron laid against his father's shoulder, pouting sadly. He wished he was big enough to go on an adventure into space.

"It's time," Skyfire reminded him softly and with a nod, Starscream finished his goodbye.

"Good luck," Elita called softly, stroking her son's head as Starscream gave his precious brothers one last hug before climbing up Skyfire's ramp.

He gave them all a smile and a wave before disappearing behind the closing hatch. Everyone retreated to a safe distance to watch as Skyfire took off. He did not immediately head for the stars and instead, did a couple of rounds of the landing pad before setting off on a course for out space.

"Bye bye," Megatron called, waving madly.

"How'd you think they'll do?" Skywarp questioned his brother.

Thundercracker smiled and said.

"I think they'll be just fine.

The end.

Author's note. There you have it, hope everyone enjoyed this story. I had a great time writing it, please leave a review if you enjoyed it.