The journey to the governor's office took far longer then Prowl would have liked, as the streets were soon clogged with curious observers, all jostling to see the Prime. While Optimus seemed unaffected, Prowl knew that his were not the only optics and sensors trained on the growing crowd. Jazz and Ironhide were also watching their surroundings with acute intensity. While clearly intimidated at being in the middle of so much attention, Prowl did not miss how Groove likewise took his cue from the older mechs and kept most of his attention on the world around him.
As they neared the governing complex, the number of watchers began to thin as security's presence increased. The last half block was actually empty of civilians, and yet Prowl did not relax his vigilant attentiveness.
In truth, Prowl did not relax even when they were finally ushered into the governor's office itself. He remained on his most alert, uncomfortably aware that his systems were still shaken from what Soundwave had done to him; what Soundwave had almost succeeded in doing. He felt off-balance internally and knew that could compromise his functioning. Not that any of this was outwardly apparent.
Alpha Trion was an ancient mech, even compared to Ironhide. Prowl knew this academically but would have been hard pressed to figure that fact out just by the mech's appearance. His frame was lanky and tall, even if not approaching Optimus' stature and was a vibrant maroon and silver. Only his optics, a deep blue that was almost violet gave any hint to his age. They were wise and knowledgeable but also cunning in a way that instantly made Prowl wary.
The governor looked up from the computer terminal imbedded in his desk as they entered his spacious and luxurious office. He did not smile in greeting, nor did he seem surprised. He just took them in with subtle calculation behind his optics. But that was soon swept away by official politeness as he rose to his pedes.
"Prime. Welcome to Simfur." Alpha Trion murmured respectfully, bowing his helm to Optimus. "I was not expecting your visit. We would have taken greater precautions had we known…"
It was almost accusatory but kept appropriately respectful and gently questioning. Optimus waved a hand, forestalling further comment. "Do not fret, Alpha Trion. We did not announce our arrival specifically to avoid what just happened."
Alpha Trion blinked, his optics narrowing in a way that made Prowl stiffen minutely. "You mean that attack was aimed at you?" A frown was added to the governor's expression. "It wasn't another attempt at the AllSpark after all?"
Prowl noted that none of their party had been invited to sit. Then again, there was a notable lack of guest seating in Alpha Trion's office. The fact that Alpha Trion remained standing was apparently the best they could hope for in regards to etiquette.
Optimus was a long moment in answering, as if weighing his words carefully. Prowl was unsure of the unspoken subtext of the situation and was glad that the Prime had not asked for his input. He was glad to leave politics to those who were programmed and trained to handle it.
Apparently Optimus opted for transparency. Prowl realized he could tell that merely by the way the armor shifted on his leader's frame before the Prime even spoke.
"Not directly." Optimus allowed. "And we believe it was aimed at one of us specifically."
Optics widening, Alpha Trion glanced around at all of them before quickly returning his gaze to Optimus. "Not you?"
It was easy to see how Alpha Trion had managed to remain governor of Simfur for so many millennia. He missed very little and he was quick to see what was not obvious.
"No." Optimus thought for a moment longer and then turned his frame a fraction and called in a soft but commanding tone. "Prowl?"
Prowl just managed to keep his doorwings from flicking at the direct address as he looked expectantly up at his leader, well aware that Alpha Trion's optics widened at hearing his designation.
Optimus gestured him forward and Jazz gracefully stepped aside to let Prowl move to stand at Optimus' left shoulder with a soft, respectful, "Prime?"
Optimus looked back at the governor of Simfur. "In uncovering a possible Decepticon spy, Prowl had no choice but to reveal himself. He was threatened and less than a full orn later this happened. Though there is little doubt it was also a test of city readiness."
Alpha Trion mulled this over for a moment and then looked directly at Prowl. "I have heard of you, Prowl. But I was not aware you were an Autobot."
When Optimus did not answer, Prowl realized he was being given leave to do so on his own. It was an understated announcement of the esteem the Prime held for him, Prowl understood, even if it made his processor ache to contemplate.
Regaining himself, Prowl gave the governor a formal half-bow as due one of such a social rank. "My conversion is recent, sir. Only since the destruction of Praxus."
"I see." All emotion was wiped from the old mech's face plate. Prowl noted he was borderline chilled by the hard coldness in the governor's expression and tone. "Understandable, if disappointing that it took so long and that only such a personal loss was enough to motivate you."
Prowl's doorwings twitched at the mild if cutting rebuke. He found that after so recently having his spark laid bare before the Senior Priest he had no ready retort, or even the will to devise one.
But Optimus spoke before Prowl could have any way, "Megatron's hold is hard to break, Alpha Trion. Especially for one as high ranking as Prowl was. Megatron sent him into Praxus to be killed in the assault. He surrendered to one of our rescue teams and has cooperated fully from that point on."
Prowl resisted the urge to shift his doorwings again, surprisingly reluctant to have that much detail given to another mech. A mech like Alpha Trion. It was ridiculous really, that he should be so self-conscious – given how much of his private life and history was fodder for gossip in Iacon – but that did not make Prowl any less uncomfortable.
But he did not protest. Optimus was his Prime, it was not his place to dictate or protest such things. Especially not in such a setting as this.
Alpha Trion let his optics flick back up to Optimus, frown reappearing. "Be that as it may, I am not sure I like the implications that eight of my Security Response officers were extinguished in a Decepticon attempt to target a mech like Prowl. He is rather infamous, after all. And I am not convinced I would have chosen to harbor him within my city's defenses after what he has done."
Prowl heard both Jazz's and Ironhide's engines give a low growl.
"You are hardly harboring him, any more than you are harboring me." Optimus stated firmly. "We are here on a mission. A mission that is greater than Simfur alone. And he is a vital part of that mission."
Alpha Trion's face went blank again as he took that in. "The AllSpark." The words were barely whispered and Prowl saw what he thought might have been relief flash behind the ancient mech's optics. Then that momentary flicker was gone as violet optics refocused on him. "That does not change the fact that my city suffered because the Decepticons were after him."
"I assure you, Governor," Prowl spoke quickly, desperate to do something that would not drive the governor and his fellow Autobots further apart. A good working relationship would be necessary to protect the AllSpark as well as future war efforts. He continued, "I expected nothing more than an assassination attempt. Had I known my presence was a danger to Simfur, I would have made other arrangements."
"Like what?"
Prowl blinked at the whip-like question. "I…am not sure. I have not had time to properly analyze the attack, its precipitating factors, nor how the Decepticons managed to break your defenses…"
"You failed to anticipate their tactics." Alpha Trion cut in.
Failed. The word burned painfully through Prowl, made all the more searing because of its accuracy. Even so it was clear to Prowl he was being manipulated into something. He knew it but, still feeling more shaken than he wanted to admit from what Soundwave had done to him, Prowl was unable to determine a way out of the trap he was sure he was being led into.
Not that it mattered; until Optimus decided differently, Alpha Trion was an allied mech of much higher social rank than he. Like with the Priest, Prowl's options were limited.
He forced the words out through gritted denta. "Apparently, Sir."
Optics sharp, Alpha Trion did not even blink. "And if you were provided whatever information you required, you would apply your skills to help strengthen our defenses from possible future Decepticon attacks?"
Prowl knew he had been forced into accepting blame for the attack being as devastating as it was. He had not expected where it now seemed this was going.
Unable to stop the faint jerk of his doorwings, Prowl nodded deferentially. "So long as you and your forces recognize the fact that planning a defense without detailed knowledge of a specific attack strategy will require said defense to be general in nature and cannot guarantee successful resistance against an attack designed to overcome it."
"Well said." Alpha Trion regarded Prowl calculatingly and Prowl felt like he was once again attempting to parry words in a minefield of innuendo and manipulation he was ill-equipped to navigate successfully. Indeed, the tactician could not shake the now solidified conviction that he was still being set up.
Alpha Trion's armor settled over his frame, but it did not seem like the mech was truly relaxing. Rather it seemed like he was now confident he knew how the discussion would end and that alone alarmed Prowl… Even if the governor's next words were the perfect hologram of reasonableness:
"I cannot help but believe that anything you can provide will help us in the future."
Processors racing, Prowl could not think of anything to say but to agree with that statement. "Indeed, Governor."
Triumph flashed briefly in shrewd violet optics. "Then that shall be suitable recompense for bringing this attack down on us."
Prowl recoiled physically, even if he aborted the movement swiftly. Recompense? Ironhide and Jazz revved angrily while Groove stared with slack mandible and First Aid shook his helm in disbelieving irritation.
Seeing their unified reaction Alpha Trion straightened, though his EM field actually relaxed fractionally. He waved a placating hand, giving them a faintly smug expression. "Relax. That is what we shall tell the populous at large. It shall placate the masses; who are always looking for someone to blame. Don't worry, it won't be phrased so punitively either. But that will be the conclusion at least some will draw. Others will see it as a confirmation of the Autobots' commitment to protecting us and the AllSpark."
Alpha Trion eyed Prowl a moment longer. "Assuming you don't have a problem?"
Prowl started to say something, then looked up at Optimus. Such political intrigue was not his forte, he would defer to one who better understood this battlefield. Especially now when he knew his functioning in that arena was compromised. Even so, he devoted a small segment of his processors to start working on recommendations for Simfur's future defense. They would need to be refined once he had all necessary information, of course, but having a concrete task like that helped to start settling his frazzled processor.
Optimus clearly saw that willing deference in Prowl's expression and therefore did not respond immediately. Prowl could easily see the clear reluctance that filled his Prime's gaze and suspected he knew the answer. Still he waited, wanting the Prime to say it out loud.
As if sensing that too, Optimus spoke softly. "The governor is right about the public at large. This situation can definitely be used to strengthen the city's loyalty to the Autobots… and build general confidence in our newest tactician. Even if some of the more recalcitrant individuals see this as a punitive move," The Prime shot a pointed look at Alpha Trion, "even they would know that your recommendations would not be used if you were not a trusted member of our forces. Regardless, such a service is one I would have offered, and Prowl would have volunteered, for the sake of all involved. Simply because it is the right thing to do. "
And just like that the governor was reminded who was truly the most powerful mech in the room. Armor flattening submissively across his frame, Alpha Trion nodded. "Of course, Prime."
There was a moment of somewhat awkward silence as the aged governor studied Prowl again, as if silently wondering how a former Decepticon could garner such loyalty from the Prime.
At length he looked back to Optimus, his tone and posture a hint more respectful than before. "If I may ask, Prime; what brings you to Simfur that you did not choose to make either myself or the Governing Council aware of your intentions?"
Optimus did not answer immediately; instead he looked at his head of special operations a question clear in his gaze.
Jazz murmured, "It's clear, Boss. I'm jamming all the monitoring devices in the room and those in the hall. We can talk."
Because he was still watching the governor, Prowl saw the startled surprise that flickered behind his impressive mask of polite impartiality at Jazz's mention of monitoring devices and wondered if he was truly surprised to hear of their existence. Surely not; no mech could be in politics as long as Alpha Trion had been and maintain naïve ignorance of such things.
Still unsure of what that surprise might mean, Prowl sent a brief, silent transmission to Optimus, digitally urging caution and to be judicious in what was shared. He received a ping acknowledging his concern.
Optimus nodded once. "We suspected not all would support our visit. It was determined that for our safety – my safety – our presence should not be widely known."
Alpha Trion canted his head to one side just enough to indicate he would like an explanation.
Optimus released a resigned vent. "In short, as I mentioned earlier, we have come to believe that Senators Diecast and Ratbat are Decepticon sympathizers and possible spies."
Vents flaring in alarm, Alpha Trion stiffened. "As evidenced by?"
Optimus glanced invitingly at Prowl and, taking the hint, the tactician immediately transmitted a compressed data file containing the accumulated evidence against both council mechs. It was not a file Optimus had asked him to compile, but one the Prime seemed to know would be available anyway. It was reassuring to know he had lived up to his Prime's expectations in regard to his function and helped to soothe some of the neural wires that still felt frayed after his recent loss of control on the battlefield. Even so, he could not shake a lingering feeling of internal instability.
The ancient mech's optics unfocused as he processed the data and then he drew himself up, glancing at Prowl before focusing back on the Prime. "Ratbat I am not surprised by. Diecast, however… Is it not convenient for the former Decepticon to point an accusing digit at a former Decepticon sympathizer?"
Alpha Trion looked challengingly at Prowl, who started to answer, but Optimus put a hand on his shoulder. Immediately, Prowl silenced his vocalizer.
"If the evidence was not sufficient to meet legal standards, Prowl would not have leveled the accusation. As a former Enforcer, I'm sure he is just as cognizant of applicable law as either you or I, if not more so." Optimus almost growled.
Alpha Trion's armor flattened a fraction and he actually shifted his weight backward, lowering his optics to Optimus' chassis. "I see. What do you plan to do then, Prime?"
Seeing that the old mech was finally accepting his authority, Optimus relaxed his own rigid stance. It was time to mend the fence he had almost needed to break.
"This is your city." Optimus gestured deferentially but not submissively to Alpha Trion. "What do you propose."
Stance loosing its rigidity, Alpha Trion considered that for a moment. When he finally met Optimus' gaze his optics shown with true respect. "You are wiser than your age, young Prime."
Optimus' lip plate quirked up. "Coming from a mech of your maturity, that is a compliment, Alpha Trion."
A short bark of laughter was the governor's response as the final dregs of his defensiveness eased up. "A polite way of saying I'm older than the moons and as stubborn as gravity. Thank you."
Ancient optics looked back at Prowl. "Considering the violence Simfur has already experienced this orn, I think it would be best for the population as a whole to present the suspects with the option to leave or face arrest and trial."
"Banishment?" Optimus asked softly.
Alpha Trion nodded, continuing to look at Prowl. "Does that satisfy legal requirements for such cases?"
Quickly accessing his own extensive knowledge of Cybertronian laws and cross-referencing similar cases throughout history Prowl took a moment to process. No one interrupted him, seeing the way that his optics unfocused. Finally Prowl nodded. "Yes, sir. Banishment is an acceptable method of punishment considering the level of evidence currently available. I have prepared a sample legal brief and related documents, including proposed warrants, for your use."
Prowl transmitted the items he had put together while he had researched Cybertronian legal precedent.
Alpha Trion's optics widened. "When… when did you have time to do this?"
Prowl blinked. "Just now."
He was unaware that Jazz was smirking openly, as were Ironhide and First Aid.
Alpha Trion just stared at him for a moment longer then nodded. "I am no legal counsel, but they look solid to me. I shall run them past the appropriate mechs of course, but… Impressive work."
"Thank you sir." Prowl nodded as if it were no big deal. "I shall have my recommendations as to improving Simfur's defenses by the end of the orn."
"That is only a couple of joors from now."
"Yes." Prowl stated simply. "I am more than half way finished with them now."
Alpha Trion did not move for a long moment. So long that Jazz sniggered quietly.
Broken out of his stupor by the noise, Alpha Trion shook his helm. "Well. Thank Primus you're on our side now."
Though perhaps intended to be humorous, Prowl's serious expression did not change. "I do, Governor. Every orn."
Prowl's softly spoken words, and the grave sincerity with which they were spoken, caused a brief hush to fall over the assembled mechs.
… … …
Once their audience with the governor – or perhaps more appropriately; the governor's audience with the Prime – was over, they were quickly on their way back to the Temple. Jazz and Groove managed to plot a course that would take them through the underground tunnels again so as to avoid the open streets. They might not be able to keep mechs from learning that the Prime was in Simfur, but they could at least restrict knowledge about where he was residing while in the city.
Prowl waited until he detected no other mechs besides their own party. Even so, he spoke lowly. "Prime, for your safety, we should not linger in Simfur. Our journey back to Iacon has just become much more perilous."
"We still have a mission to accomplish." Optimus reminded him gravely.
"Yes, sir." Prowl nodded, never for an instant ceasing to scan their surroundings. "I believe I have a suitable solution, at least for the short term, and it will not require our continued presence."
Optimus glanced over at him. "Show me."
Prowl sent the Prime his preferred plan in a highly compressed databurst. Then he waited for Optimus' reaction.
Optimus stopped walking abruptly, causing the entire procession to halt. The bright cerulean optics that locked onto Prowl carried a world of unspoken calculation that Prowl could not even begin to fathom.
"Impressive." Optimus rumbled thoughtfully. "We shall present this to the Senior Priest and the Commander of the Guardians tonight. If it is accepted we shall depart as soon as it is set in motion."
There was a question in that straightforward statement. As if the Prime was asking him if that was acceptable… to him. Prowl fought back an ache in his processor at that thought as he nodded. "Very good, sir."
The barest hint of a smile touched the Prime's lip plates before he turned and continued their trek.
They were greeted at the Temple's underground entrance by the Lead Guardian. The emerald mech greeted the Prime with all due respect and then turned his light blue gaze onto the lone Temple Guardian standing beside Prowl.
"Groove."
Groove stepped forward, his shoulder guards set in a meek but stubborn way, his EM field held tight to his frame. Prowl felt a pang of sympathy with the young Guardian, knowing the look of a mech who expected a very public dressing down.
"Yes commander." Groove's voice was admirably steady.
"Did you accompany Prowl outside the Temple's territory?" The stern question left no quarter, demanding an answer.
Groove looked down, well aware his commander already knew the answer. "Yes, sir."
A truly regretful frown tipped the emerald Guardian's expression, though he could not quite hide the hint of sad pride that accompanied it, "That is unfortunate Groove."
Groove just ducked his helm.
"Groove accomplished his mission, Commander." Prowl spoke with careful respect, feeling obligated to try and help the mech who had sacrificed his future for his sake.
"To protect you?" The look the Lead Guardian shot Prowl was filled with subdued venom and Prowl understood. The Lead Guardian was loosing what he considered a promising trainee and he was the obvious cause.
Unable to truly take offence at the unspoken accusation, an accusation that was not entirely out of place, Prowl shook his helm firmly. "To protect the AllSpark."
Light blue optics widened as the lead Guardian actually jerked back at the news. Then the angry edge to his look softened. "Indeed? It is still unfortunate. Our Mandate as the AllSpark's Guardians is clear. He stepped outside of his jurisdiction."
"And what are the consequences he will face?" Optimus asked quietly.
The Lead Guardian glanced at the Prime and then returned his focus to the young mech. "I am sorry, Groove."
Groove merely nodded, the image of abject misery.
Releasing a gust of air, the emerald and gold mech straightened. "I have no choice but to dismiss you from the Temple's Service."
All of the Autobots, except Prowl, blinked at the pronouncement. For his part, Prowl was all too aware that Groove practically wilted, seemingly crushed. On the young mech's other side, First Aid lifted a hand, hesitated a second, and then placed it on Groove's shoulder in silent sympathy.
"I am sorry." The Lead Guardian continued as gently as he could. "You have great potential Groove. I wish it had not come to this."
Groove's commander considered the nearly trembling young mech for a long moment and then looked at the Prime. "Sir, if you have need of a mech with Groove's qualifications, know that I recommend him without reservation. This dismissal is not by my choice. I am bound by laws and traditions that are greater than I."
Optimus nodded silently. Taking the hint, the Lead Guardian turned on his heel strut and retreated back into the Temple.
No one said anything for a long moment, giving Groove time to gather himself. After a long handful of seconds, Groove straightened, lifting his helm. He glanced at Optimus then turned to Prowl.
"I did the right thing." Groove stated softly but steadily. "I don't regret it."
Prowl allowed his doorwings to dip gratefully.
"The consequences if you hadn't accompanied Prowl would have been disastrous." Optimus murmured gently.
Groove nodded firmly. "I…" His shoulders drooped again. "I guess I should go. I don't have permission to be here any longer."
"You do, if you are one of us." The Prime offered.
The young mech's helm snapped up, his optics widening. "You mean… I could become and Autobot?"
"If that is your wish." Optimus nodded. "You are welcome to return to Iacon with us."
"I think…" Groove released a sigh of air through his vents. "I don't know. I don't like to fight. Violence is wrong. But…" He looked through the arching entry into the temple – toward the AllSpark hidden within – and he straightened. "But not standing against Megatron would be worse."
He looked down briefly and the five Autobots stayed silent, letting him think. At length Groove looked back up. "I will go to Iacon. Without my position as a Temple Guardian, I have nothing here."
… … …
Within a matter of breems, all six mechs were safely back in the Senior Priest's office. When the Lead Guardian had looked at Groove pointedly then turned a questioning look at the Prime, Optimus had nodded once.
The tiny smile that brushed across the emerald mech's faceplate spoke of relief. Then they were left alone while the Priest and his Guardian went about their duties.
Prowl pondered the actions of the Lead Guardian even as his comrades settled in to wait the couple of joors before the Priest would return. He could not help but reflect that his initial evaluation of why a mech like Groove would be assigned to him had been more than accurate. Groove's commander had known that Groove would act, even if doing so came at a great personal cost. Most mechs in Groove's position would not have left their territorial post, and Prowl shuddered to think about what that would have ultimately meant. It was a cruel thing to do to Groove, but it had also been the Lead Guardian's only way to guarantee the protection of the AllSpark.
Groove had been used, sacrificed for the greater good of the many. A cold and sparkless thought, but necessary – as much as Prowl hated to admit it. He also knew himself well enough to know he would have done exactly the same thing in the Lead Guardian's position. Admitting that to himself, Prowl felt a stab of guilt. He was infinitely relieved that Groove had chosen to join them in Iacon.
Prowl glanced at the object of his contemplation and saw that First Aid was speaking quietly to Groove off to one side from where Optimus, Ironhide and Jazz were likewise in quiet conference. However, seeing First Aid, Prowl was reminded of his promise to the young medic. He headed their direction.
Both young mechs fell quiet at his approach, turning to look at him.
Prowl nodded greeting to Groove and then looked at First Aid, speaking quietly. "First Aid, we have time now if you wish to examine my logic and emotional center."
First Aid blinked, then glanced around to see that Prowl's movement had caused the Prime and the two warriors with him to watch discretely while Groove was openly curious. His armor flared. The young medic knew Prowl would not have acted so publicly if his own method of informing the tactician he wanted to examine him had not been done so publicly. He knew Prowl to be a private mech and felt guilty to see Prowl voluntarily forfeiting his own privacy for his sake.
"Um… r-right." First Aid grimaced at how flustered he knew he sounded. "Uh… there is only one chair, but that one is…"
Taking pity on the suddenly nervous medic, Prowl gently touched his arm with two fingers to silence him. He locked his frame to keep from falling in case the scan caused any dizziness and then granted access to his primary data port.
"Prowl…"
As if sensing the medic's concern, Groove stepped closer to Prowl. Prowl ignored the former Guardian nodding to First Aid. "Go ahead, First Aid."
Clearing his vents, First Aid stepped forward. A second later they were synched. It was the first time First Aid had been in his processor since right after his crash nearly a vorn previously, and the younger mech was clearly nervous about being in his head again.
The exam took nearly a breem and Prowl remained just as motionless mentally as his locked frame did physically.
Finally First Aid backed out, removing his cord. "Looks good. I think it is safe enough to say that the virus was designed to affect motor commands only and therefore left your command cortex alone. I think."
Prowl nodded, not giving any outward indication of the discomfort the exam had left behind, nor of the understandable embarrassment of having such an exam done in such a public setting. "Thank you for checking, First Aid. Will that be all?"
First Aid blinked. He respected Prowl and actually looked up to him as a teacher as well as a skilled tactician. Yet Prowl was deferring to him… oh. Right. Because he was the medic on this mission and had all but pulled medical rank to get this exam in the first place. Despite the personal awkwardness First Aid had put him in, Prowl was making a point of showing his own respect.
White and red medic nodded quickly, feeling humbled. "Yes. Thank you for your patience, Prowl."
A tiny smile was First Aid's reward before Prowl turned away. Groove watched the tactician move back to the more isolated area of the massive office where he had done his planning before. With a glance at First Aid, the young Guardian quickly followed Prowl.
"Um, Prowl…?"
Prowl stopped, turning back to look at him. "Yes Groove?"
Groove's armor flared as did his energy field and the combination reminded Prowl sharply of Bluestreak. When the young mech began stammering, that comparison only strengthened. "Um, I don't… I mean… It's personal and none of my business, but… Ah, I…"
Prowl considered the other mech thoughtfully, and drew the most logical conclusion as to what the mech was trying to ask. "You wish to know what First Aid's concern was with my emotional and logic cores and what my ethical programming had to do with the whole situation."
It was a gentle statement more than a question and was offered without defensiveness. And that seemed to surprise Groove as much as Prowl's manner also served to calm him down. He nodded.
Prowl remained silent for a long moment, but saw a stubborn light in the young mech's optics. It was the same stubbornness that had caused him to willingly sacrifice his own dream of becoming a vested Temple Guardian to do what he felt was right. That also meant that Groove felt that discovering the answer to that question was more important than mere curiosity. Groove wanted to know if Prowl was more of a security risk than he had known.
Prowl could respect that, the strength of character Groove was displaying. He released a vent of air and gave the younger mech an explanation he hoped would satisfy his concerns while still protecting his own privacy. "It has to do with the same reason you had to act today and what I had to do to break free of Megatron's hold. Needless to say, it was not a process that left me unscathed."
Groove blinked at him and then horror tinged with sympathy washed across his expression as he understood some of what Prowl left unsaid. Then that sympathy was replaced by unadulterated respect that bordered on awe.
"I see." Groove paused. "You said there were things I could do in Iacon that didn't involve fighting. Can I work for you, in your department?"
Prowl found himself staring at Groove, then answered him in soft tones. "I am not the leader of the tactical department. But I shall speak to him on your behalf and he can arrange for you to take the aptitude assessment, if you wish."
"You aren't?... But I thought…" Groove looked confused and flustered.
Prowl gave him a small, self-depreciating half-smile. "I am a former Decepticon, Groove. It is hardly appropriate for me to be in the position of Department Head."
"Oh…" Groove's frame heated fractionally.
"No. It is not inappropriate." The Prime's deep rumble interrupted them and both Prowl and Groove looked up at the Autobot leader as he walked toward them, followed closely by Ironhide and Jazz. "You are more than qualified to be our Head Tactician."
Prowl straightened. "Smokescreen has earned his position. I am content to continue supporting him."
The Prime smiled. "That is a dramatic degradation from your true potential."
Prowl shook his helm, "With all due respect. I allowed myself to be degraded when I served Megatron. While I might have passed a spark scan, that does not change the fact that by all rights I should still be a prisoner of war. At best an unranked tactician. In no way do I see my current position as degrading. Far from it, Prime."
"The fact that Smokescreen has earned his position in no way diminishes your own claim."
Optics blazing, Prowl's engine revved. "I make no claim! I will not do that to Smokescreen."
Only the minute shifting of the other's armor and the widening of their optics made Prowl realize his tone had taken on an unintended bite. Optimus, for his part did not react in any way except for an amused flicker in his optics.
"Then you should know," Optimus continued amiably, "Smokescreen has been petitioning me for several decaorns now to give you command of the tactical division."
Prowl's vents stalled mid intake and he had to forcefully clear his vents in order to reset them. Then his optics narrowed onto his Prime. "You are not considering doing so, Prime."
It was more of a statement – an order almost – than a question and it caused the Prime to smile mischievously. "Actually, I am. As soon as we return to Iacon."
Doorwings flicked in disbelief, but a glance at Ironhide and Jazz showed that both were in smug agreement with Optimus. Feeling cornered Prowl shook his helm, his engine revving as he changed tactic an appealed more to his student than his Prime, the first time he had done so with others present. "That is a cruel jest, sir."
"It is no jest, Prowl." The Prime's calm serenity only irritated him.
Prowl's engine revved. "That is hardly incentive for me to make it back to Iacon, Prime."
Ironhide, Groove, Jazz and First Aid just stared at him in open shock. For a brief moment, fear lanced through Prowl as he worried he had pushed too far.
But then a compassionate smile spread across Optimus' faceplate and a gentle hand landed on his shoulder. "You will make it back to Iacon, Prowl because you know I am right."
Prowl's engine revved and then his frame sagged fractionally. "I may make it back to Iacon, but that does not mean you are right in this, Prime."
Not even Ultra Magnus, Ratchet or Ironhide would take that tone with the Prime and the others stared in open disbelief. Realizing this, Prowl felt a brief stab of shamed chagrin that he had allowed himself to speak so freely. Processors flailing for a way to apologize, Prowl was further stunned when Jazz suddenly chuckled and Ironhide smirked. Then the hand on his shoulder tightened before it was removed.
"As you said, our return journey to Iacon will be more difficult." Optimus spoke clearly. "I will leave you to best figure out how to accomplish it."
The discussion was delayed, Prowl realized, tabled for the moment but not won. Nevertheless, he accepted the truce his leader offered and nodded sharply. "Yes, sir."
… … …
Prowl had long since transmitted his recommendations on Simfur's defenses to the proper authority by the time he settled on the best way to get the Prime safely back to Iacon. Likewise, he had already helped the Prime present their plan to protect the AllSpark to the Senior Priest and the Lead Guardian before Prowl had a chance to set his plan into motion.
However, he had not felt this…nervous… about a proposal since the botched safe-house fiasco. And he had not even presented his plan to the Prime yet. Perhaps it was because he was fairly certain Optimus would not be in favor of it. But he realized his leader's approval did not really matter. His job was to get the Prime safely back to Iacon and he would do so. His plan violated no ethical principle, law or regulation. But Optimus was a mech who detested putting others in danger, especially for his own sake.
Conviction solidified, Prowl sucked in a vent of air and opened a long-distance, encrypted communication line to the one mech whose cooperation he really needed to win.
/Ultra Magnus here./ The reply came a moment later. /What is it Prowl?/
/Sir,/ Prowl was careful to convey as much respect as possible in his transmission. /The situation in Simfur has changed. We had no option but to reveal our presence to the population as a whole./
Prowl could all but hear the Commander's angry growl. /Explain./
/Simfur was attacked by Decepticon forces and our assistance was required to defend the city./ Prowl then transmitted a brief report of the battle and what had happened, including the two spies that were discovered.
There was a long breem of silence as Ultra Magnus reviewed the data. Prowl waited patiently.
When the Commander did reply, there was no mistaking the undercurrent of anger in the larger mech's tone. /The attack that revealed the Prime's presence was aimed at you. Your presence on the mission has placed the Prime in otherwise avoidable danger./
Prowl flinched and he ignored the puzzled look Jazz shot him. He might be able to legitimately argue the point, but chose not to. /Apparently, sir./
/What is the purpose of this transmission then?/ Ultra Magnus demanded irritably. /Are you trying to prepare me for the possibility of loosing our Prime?/
/I have no intention of loosing the Prime, sir./ Prowl transmitted, his tone non-confrontational and meek. /I am contacting you in order to request assistance./
There was a pause. /What kind of assistance?/
Prowl drew in another vent of air before continuing. /The plan that I have developed which has the best calculated probability of everyone surviving requires that I specifically endanger one mech…/ Prowl paused, suddenly flailing for words to continue his explanation.
Ultra Magnus spoke into his momentary silence, disgust ringing through the transmission. /And what? You want my permission?/
Feeling stung by the Commander's biting tone, Prowl transmitted a respectful negation and answered quickly. /No. I am asking you to volunteer to be that mech, sir./
Acute silence echoed between them and Prowl waited, suddenly aware that his spark was pulsing hotly in his chassis. He was asking a mech who had barely started to trust that he was not a Decepticon agent to place his life in his hands… and as a target for the Decepticons, no less.
/What are you thinking?/ It might have been an incredulous statement of disbelief, but Prowl chose to act as though it was a request to see the details of his plan and he obligingly sent that information to his Prime's Second in Command.
Finally, Ultra Magnus replied. /I see. The Prime will not like this./
/Of that I am aware, Sir. But I believe that together we can convince him of its necessity./ Prowl acknowledged respectfully.
/You assume I am convinced./ Ultra Magnus stated flatly. Then he continued, more resignedly. /Unfortunately, I see no other options either. I should be there by the end of next orn./
/Thank you sir./ Prowl could not quite prevent his relief from filtering into his transmission.
/You may not be thanking me after the mission is completed./ Was all Ultra Magnus said before he cut the signal.
Prowl released a vent and shuttered his optics. Despite the risks, and all the things that could still go wrong, Prowl was finally feeling optimistic that everything would fall into place. Ultra Magnus' agreement to participate helped increase the odds tremendously. Several of the most likely scenarios that might face their retreat from Simfur were now covered with approximately 86.24% assurance.
Those odds did not remove the personal danger for anyone, but he was now 98.47% confident that those whose safety was his responsibility would reach Iacon safely. That alone was a great comfort.
My thanks to everyone for your patience. And thank your for the wonderfully encouraging reviews.
I know the times between updates seems to be tortuously long. I apologize. But I simply cannot communicate how much of my energy is just sapped by working such long hours… especially when I have to get up at 3:30 am to get to work. I spend my days off recovering… that means staring at the back of my eyelids for as long as possible, as frequently as possible. So, yes… I don't get to write as much as I would like. I am looking for another job, but those things take time. *sigh*
Anyway, I am having to rework my outline for the next couple of chapters because I realized my original outline was just completely… ridiculous. I also managed to write myself into a corner I had not originally set out to do and now I have to work myself out of it. (I have mentioned that this story has taken on a life of its own, haven't I?) No way in pit would my original plot be anything but contrived and unbelievable at this point. And you guys deserve better than that. So… your continued patience is much appreciated.
If anyone would care to speculate about what type of reception you believe Ultra Magnus will have… and what the Prime's reaction will be to what you suspect Prowl's plan will be, I would love to know what you think will happen. :)
