Here's a bit of Megatron's POV. Because he deserves his say, too.

Megatron studied his adopted creation. His young heir seemed pensive, but not upset, and Megatron was grateful for that. He was surprised that Optimus had regained his memories, and he couldn't help but worry. Despite what he said, it was entirely possible that the Autobot Prime would regret becoming the Decepticon Heir. Megatron watched Optimus for a long moment, aware that he needed to say something. He realized his hand was still on Optimus' shoulder, still gently rubbing the Decepticon brand. He cared for his little one, the mech that had once been such a fierce enemy.

"Optimus, I'm… glad you remember," Megatron finally said. "But I would have been just as happy, just as proud of you, if you never did."

Optimus smiled slightly in response.

"I… I wonder what would have happened if we hadn't been turned into sparklings," he mused.

"I'm glad we don't know," Megatron said. "We would have fought, and I'm not sure which of us would have won. You'd already shown how creative and, quite frankly, stubborn you could be, but you were young and didn't have the experience I have. Then again, you were learning fast." Just another reason Megatron was glad this mech was on his side now.

"Thank you," Optimus said. "I… don't know. I know I'm more than I thought I was, you taught me that, but…" he shrugged.

"We'll never know, and I for one am grateful it did happen. I enjoyed raising you, Optimus. You caused problems, as all sparklings do, but that doesn't matter. You were a joy to raise and teach."

Optimus smiled up at him. Then he sobered. "I think I need to see one of the Autobots you still hold prisoner. The ones that are too dangerous, or too stupid to release."

"Which one?"

"Sentinel Prime."

Megatron sobered in turn. "Are you sure? He's been nothing but trouble, and honestly we're probably never going to be able to free him. And never mind what he tried to do to you. Both before and after."

Optimus nodded. "I'm sure. I need to. But… I wouldn't mind if you came with me. Just let us talk, without interference. Even when he insults me."

"When?"

"He won't be able to control himself. He never could keep from insulting me."

Megatron chuckled. "Yes, I would prefer to come. Do you want me in the room with you?"

"No," Optimus replied. "Just… nearby."

"Very well. It may take a few days to prepare for the trip."

Optimus nodded. "I had plans for today, anyway," he said.

"Visiting your friends?"

"They've been my friends longer than I thought. I don't think any of them remember, but it's still good to spend time with them."

"True," Megatron said. "Very well, little one. Let's take some Energon together, and then I have meetings."

"You don't need me in them?" Optimus asked.

"Not today," Megatron said. "You've come of age, and you received your brand, remember?" He said firmly. Not again, he really didn't want to have this argument with his too-serious, too-dedicated young heir again.

"Ah. Yes," Optimus said. "I still think a deca-cycle off is excessive."

"I don't. You deserve it, Optimus."

Optimus sighed, but he'd argued against this vacation before the ceremony and it looked like he knew there was no point to arguing now. Megatron could still out-stubborn Optimus, after all.

Optimus took one more look at the sun, now fully risen, and then turned to enter the suite. "Sour or spicy today?" he asked.

"Sour, I think," Megatron said. "Add some of the oil from Tarn, as well, I'll need it to stay awake. I'm meeting with the Minster for Economics." Megatron grimaced slightly, and Optimus returned the expression. Bullrush was long winded, and rarely got to the point on the first try.

"Ratchet, Prowl and I are going to the Crystal Garden today. We'll meet Bumblebee and Bulkhead after, and head to the VR center."

Megatron nodded. "I'm sure you'll have a better day than I will."

Optimus smiled. "I… I was hoping, if you have time tomorrow, that we could spar? Not too seriously, but…"

Megatron looked up and met his gaze. He smirked at him. "Want to see if you can beat me now, little Prime?" he asked teasingly.

Optimus blinked at him, probably because he'd used that old title. "I…" he thought for a moment before smirking back. "Yes, I do," he said. "Of course I do."

Megatron laughed. "Very well, little one. Optimus. I won't go easy on you."

"You never have," Optimus replied. "Not even once."

The Emperor and Prince of Cybertron smiled at each other as they got ready for their days.

And here's chapter 2. More, hopefully, on Friday!