The Return of the Thylacine
Disclaimer: Transformers are the copyright of Hasbro and Takara. This work of fiction is written solely for entertainment purposes and is not intended for profit.
Author's Note(s): This story is dedicated in memory of Benjamin, the last known living thylacine who died on September 7th, 1936 at the Beaumaris Zoo in Hobart, Tasmania.
This story follows Season 2 of the G1 Transformers, but should also be considered AU for several reasons:
1: The setting is modern day instead of the 1980s. Some liberties have been taken.
2: Some concepts from later renditions such as the All Spark and Primus will be acknowledged.
3: The elements and subject matter of the story will deal with mature themes that would not be found in a series targeted at children.
Chapter 7: Meet Me in San Francisco
Several weeks passed when Ratchet announced that Tracks was finally ready to emerge from the CR Chamber. Anxious Autobots raced to the infirmary to welcome back their recovered friend. The room was decorated with potted flowers and cards sent by employees of Kagayaku Motors, and the Australian and New Guinea governments.
As the liquid drained, the sleeping autobot slowly came back to life. The door and sides of the chamber rose up, releasing puffs of vapor. Tracks' body shivered at first and gradually warmed as it became accustomed to room temperature. His optics opened. Everything was blurry at first, but slowly focused on the many welcoming faces of his Cybertronian peers.
Ratchet came forward and scanned his body. "Welcome back to the world of the living," he laughed.
Tracks blinked and looked around in confusion. "What happened?" he asked.
Prime put an arm around him. "You were caught in the explosion. We brought you home to recover. It's been nearly a month, but we're glad to have you back. It's thanks to you that the Decepticons suffered a serious setback. You're a hero."
"A month!?" cried Tracks, "Where's Dyani? Kota?" He looked at the get-well gifts with bewilderment. "Is this all for me?"
With laughter, Optimus replied, "Well, I don't know anyone else they'd be for. As for Dyani and Kota, they're fine. They've returned to their families. Come. No doubt you're hungry. Let's get you some fresh energon and later you can enjoy an oil bath. There's lots to do."
"A hot oil bath sounds invigorating, but what is going on?"
Sunstreaker smirked. "We're going to San Francisco!" he said. "They're throwing us a party."
That made Tracks even more confused. "The city of San Francisco is holding us a party?"
Prime winked. "Not exactly. Kagayaku Motors is. There's much that's happened while you were recuperating. We'll talk about it over energon."
And with that, Tracks listened to Prime and the others give accounts of the past several weeks while drinking his fill of energon. This batch was of a better quality than they had in a long time. He learned about the donation of hydrogen and the arrangement with the Japanese auto manufacturer. He nodded on occasion and did more listening than talking. The thylacines were originally in autobot care, but later had been transported to several zoos along the West Coast and Ohio to help prepare them to be released back into the wild. The party Sunstreaker had mentioned was not only to celebrate their partnership, but also to honor the autobots for saving the lives of the engineers and the two young adults.
Later, while soaking in steaming oil, the corvette found himself thinking about Dyani. He realized how much he missed her. He thought about the times she could be very sweet, and other times when she would lose her temper. He thought about Raoul, who had similar qualities. Though he missed both humans terribly, some of the memories made him chuckle to himself. FInally, he thought about his autobot family and how everyone was there when he woke up. He realized how fortunate he was to have so many, both organic and cybertronian, that cared about him.
Feeling refreshed, Tracks met with Prime alone in the control room.
"Tracks," the leader began, "I am reinstating you back to active duty-that is after you take a little time for yourself. Sunstreaker and Sideswipe are heading to San Francisco ahead of us to check in on Kota. I'd like you to go with them. I think you know why."
"Absolutely," he replied, and smiled. He felt happier than he had for a long time.
In the Japantown area of San Francisco, there was a popular ramen spot known as Marufuku Ramen. It was located on Port Street. It was here Kota went on a first date with a young man named Omari. The Japanese youth's ankle had healed sufficiently enough for him to return to normal activity. He shyly held Omari's hand before parting ways. The other youth told him that he had a good time and promised to text later. When he was out of sight, Kota pumped a fist in triumph.
"And I thought you said you lacked confidence," a familiar voice bellowed from behind as two long shadows cast over the young man. He turned to see the two lambros staring downward at him.
"Bros!" Kota shouted and all but leapt at them. He was halted by Sideswipe, who set him on Sunstreaker's shoulder.
"Take it easy," said the older lambro. "We heard you just recovered. There'll be plenty of time for roughhousing."
"Yeah, that's true," the boy laughed while rubbing the back of his head. A few shoppers and tourists were staring at the giant robots. Some recognized them as Autobots by the red symbols on their chests. It had been a minute since such beings had been seen around San Francisco, so they were a bit of a curiosity.
Sunstreaker snorted. "Okay, break it up. There's nothing to see here!"
Sideswipe just shrugged. He could care less if people stared. It's not like the Autobots coming to the Bay Area was a secret.
Kota had an idea. He whispered into Sunstreaker's audio receptors. "Let's go cruising around in your car forms and head to Kagayaku Motors later."
The lambros agreed.
Back at Kagayaku Motors, Terry was working out of the dealership across from the main plant. He was working late, performing maintenance on some trade-ins. Since Dyani and Kota were permitted some time off from the semester, they were helping out at the business. Although the reunion had been a happy one, Terry worried about his daughter. She hadn't been herself since the return to San Francisco. He didn't blame her after everything she had gone through, but she also seemed sad. She told him and her mother about the Autobots, and especially the one that saved her life. Actually meeting them was a little unnerving at first due to their massive size, but meeting the Witwickys helped put Dyani's parents at ease. Terry and Sparkplug got along well since both men were from mechanical backgrounds. They discussed the prospects of maybe working together in the future.
Dyani closed the hood of a Camry and wiped her hands on a cloth. "Hey Dad, is it okay if I take a short break in the office?"
"Sure thing, kiddo," said Terry. "I'll join you."
They sat in chairs drinking bottled water. Terry looked thoughtful. "Hayate stopped by today. Mr. Tamaki is planning something big tomorrow. You and Kota are to attend. Hell, the whole family is invited."
"Yeah. about the partnership. I heard he sent an invite to the Autobots." Dyani remarked, while chewing on a fingernail.
Terry furrowed an eyebrow. "You're not happy about seeing them again?"
"It's not that. Of course. I think the world of them. It's just…I don't really want to talk about it. I'm sorry."
Her father didn't press the issue. He accepted she was still processing everything and was worried about the one she called Tracks. He could tell he meant a lot to her, but he couldn't help but wonder. He was still trying to unpack the realization that these robots were living creatures. He gave Dyani a hug and told her to take a little while longer. He went to check on the Camry when Kai, his son, and assistant mechanic, phoned and asked to meet him outside in the used car lot. Kai was standing by a car while skimming through his inventory sheet. It was a 1982 C3 Corvette Stingray with a sparkly midnight blue finish, but there was no record of anyone trading in such a car that day.
"I have no idea where it came from, Dad," Kai said, confused.
The other man nodded curiously as he examined the hood. "It's a stunning vehicle. You know how much Dyani's wanted one of these for years. Go check with your mother in her office. Maybe someone dropped it off at the last minute."
When finally alone, Terry talked aloud to himself. "If someone doesn't want you, maybe I can see if I could set you aside for Dyani."
"I don't belong to anyone. I'm mine!" a voice huffed.
The man fell backwards in disbelief. The stingray moved closer, but there was no driver.
"I came here looking for Dyani," it said. "Are you her father?"
"Yeah…" Terry answered nervously. "And you're talking? I swear I must be working too hard."
The car stopped a few inches away from him. "Of course I can talk, but you haven't seen the half of me. By way of introduction, my name's Tracks."
Slowly, Terry started understanding. He recovered enough to stand up and dusted himself off. "I'm Terry Swiftwater. So it's you! I should thank you for everything you've done for my daughter. She didn't tell me you are a Stingray."
"It's complicated…" Tracks answered.
"Yeah, I guess it would be," said Terry. "Dyani's in the office. I'll go get her."
"Good man, thank you," Tracks said courteously.
Terry went to the office. "Hey Dyani, would you come out to the lot with me?"
The girl looked up. "Hmm? Okay, I guess?" She headed out with her father, when Tika, her mother, halted them. "Terry, what's this about a Corvette Stingray? There is no record of anyone dropping off any model of a Chevrolet." She gave him a look, thinking he bought it to cheer their daughter up. But as soon as the mention of corvette came up, Dyani bolted outside. She ran straight to the car and placed her arms on the top of its curved hood.
"Tracks!" she cried. "You're okay….you had me so worried, you idiot!"
Tracks gently pulled away and converted into robot-mode. He knelt down and embraced Dyani tightly. He closed his optics and rested his head against hers.
Tika and Terry looked at one another. They had difficulty knowing what to say. For some reason, it felt awkward watching the two have a moment. It was obvious they were close. They decided it would be better to wait inside.
Dyani should have been overjoyed and part of her was, but she still felt guilt over Tracks getting hurt. She cried against his chassis, apologizing between sobs. Tracks lifted her up to his eye-level.
"Dyani," he spoke gently, but firmly, "There's nothing to apologize for." Tracks lifted her chin up and added, "I came to check on you. The rest of the Autobots are arriving tomorrow. Apparently, Kagayaku Motors plans to throw a soiree in our honor."
She blushed. "I knew about that, but I didn't know if you would be well by then."
Tracks turned his nose up. "Hmph! Frankly, I don't like seeing you all sulky. I thought you would be happy to see me. Here I came all this way to see someone I care about and offer to escort her to the party in style, but all she can do is wallow in her own self-pity!"
Laughter erupted from Dyani. Everything really was okay. She touched the top of the corvette's crest and said, "You don't have to be so uptight. How could I refuse that face? But I don't even know what to do for something formal."
The corvette's optics sparkled. "Eeeeeee! I do! I think Kota offered to help with the proper attire. Leave the rest to me. I'll tell you where to meet tomorrow."
Kai peered outside and shook his head. "That robot's so weird," he commented. "It figures Dyani would happen to befriend the one that turns into a corvette."
"That's enough!" scolded Tika as she made her eldest son move away from the door.
Terry gave Kai a stern look. "That robot saved your sister's life. I don't care if he's a corvette or a garbage truck. I'm still grateful. It's obvious Dyani cares about him regardless of what he is. Now everything about these past few weeks makes sense."
Tika smirked. "She seems much happier now. I think we should keep an open-mind, whether they're just friends, or more than that. That also goes for you too, Kai."
"I'll try," he sighed. "I'm just not used to seeing one of them up so close. I think Skye and Arya would get a kick out seeing him."
"I think it's time to close up shop anyway," said Terry. "Why don't you bring the family over to meet Dyani's friend? We could have a fire in the backyard tonight."
Kai rubbed his head. "Yeah, sure. I'll call and let Yolande know, although she'll think I'm nuts."
Tika left the men to close up the shop and stepped outside for some fresh air, and to formally meet the autobot. He was a little larger than at first glance, but not colossal. She sensed he had an aura-something she inherited from her mother, but it was not nearly as developed. The energy wasn't quite like the ones organic life gave off, but it was definitely one of something alive. As she approached, the large humanoid robot looked in her direction. "Hello," she said. "I am Tika, Dyani's mother."
Dyani looks so much like her. Tracks remarked in thought. He gave her a single nod and replied in introduction, "My name is Tracks."
"We're about to head home for the evening. You weren't planning to stay here tonight?"
The corvette's face turned a darker shade of red. "It's not like I could fit inside a human house," he said.
Tika laughed, "Of course you couldn't, but we have a garage."
"That's more like it," said Tracks with relief.
Dyani playfully jabbed the corvette in the side. "Think of it as your barracks away from home."
"Barracks?" questioned Tika.
"The Autobots sleep in a large communal area in their vehicle forms," Dyani explained, trying not to giggle at Tracks being all self-conscious.
Tracks stepped back and converted back into a corvette. "Speaking of which," he said. "Would you both be so kind as to take me there?"
Dyani grinned. "Of course! Mom, you're going to love this."
"Well, let me let your father and brother know," she said.
Soon they were flying high above the San Francisco Bay towards the direction of one of its middle-class suburbs. Tika was frightened at first, but found herself enjoying being airborne inside a flying car. Tracks flew a little slower than his normal flight speed. There was no need to hurry and it was a short trip. He found a clear stretch of road and landed softly onto the asphalt. His wings and rocket booster folded in, allowing his rear wheels to take over. He drove the remainder of the way to the house. Tracks parked in the driveway and opened both his doors for the women.
"What a gentleman," Tika praised, giving him a pat on the hood.
Dyani stretched. "Looks like we beat them home."
The women led the cybertronian to their backyard. It was medium-large and mostly paved, save for a small grassy area surrounded by flowers and shrubbery. Dyani helped her mother move some outdoor furniture around to accommodate Tracks' large stature and spread out a blanket for him to sit on, so he didn't scratch his finish.
When the men returned, they were accompanied by a white woman that looked to be in her late twenties or early thirties. She had red hair and freckles. With her were a boy and girl that were seven and five respectively. The woman was Yolande, the Kai's wife, and their children: Skye and Arya. Last of all, was a thin, dark-haired man in his early twenties. He was dressed in a pizza delivery uniform and was introduced as Finn, Dyani's other brother. They were all interested in Tracks, but the young children were downright thrilled with him. They showed no hesitation with climbing on and examining every inch of the robot. Tracks took their curiosity in stride. He enjoyed the spontionanity of humans.
The boy, Skye, seemed to never run out of questions about robots like Tracks, but the line was drawn at personal questions that kids his age didn't need to know. Arya contented herself with telling him she loved how his skin glittered and that she thought his cyan-blue eyes were pretty. She wanted to play 'Warrior Princess Sapphire (her favorite cartoon), and pretend he was the prince waiting to be rescued.
It was getting late. The children were unhappy about having to go to bed, but asked if they could stay up long enough to see the robot turn into a car. Their parents agreed, and they were tickled pink to see what a cool car he was. They were bummed when they were called into the house by their parents. The other adults had also turned in, except Dyani. She opened the garage, and Tracks drove inside.
"This is cozy," he said with a contented sigh.
Dyani touched the flame decal on his hood. "Do you need anything?"
"No, I think I'll be fine. It's time for me to go into stasis. You should probably do the same. We have a big day tomorrow."
"About that…what do you have planned?"
Tracks scoffed. "It's a secret! You'll know when the time comes. Now if you don't mind, I'm powering down for my beauty sleep. Good night."
Shrugging, Dyani smiled and replied, "Good night."
The next day came with purple-gray sky giving way to the orange-pink dawn over the bay. Dyani awoke to the sound of her phone going off. It was Kota's ringtone.
"Hello?" she said groggily.
"Dyani, get up!" he said. "The Bros are getting antsy. Tracks called and said we have to meet you guys at Gorgas Street."
"Okay, I'm awake. Let me get dressed and get Captain Fancypants," Dyani said, wild yawning. She heard Kota laugh.
"Captain Fancypants? I love it! Seeya soon."
Dyani threw on some jeans and a t-shirt. She slipped into some sandals and splashed water on her face before heading to the garage. Tracks was already awake and revved his engine with excitement. He greeted her with a "Good morning!"
"Morning," Dyani replied, with a yawn. "Need coffee…"
"You'll have it and so much more," he said, opening the passenger door. "Get in."
She obeyed and they took off into the skies. They flew over San Francisco and went Northeast past Japantown to Gorgas Street. Tracks landed in a semi-empty parking lot in front of a cream-colored building with a red roof. It had a glass door with the wording SenSpa.
"And here we are," Tracks beamed. "The first step is invigorating yourself-human style."
The girl peered over the dashboard while they waited for Kota and the Lambros. "It sounds nice, but how are you going to pay for this?"
Tracks responded. "It's all taken care of through Kagayaku Motors. But if you must know, I called in and asked them to arrange it. As your escort, it's my job to help you not only look good, but feel good."
Dyani laughed. "Escort? You might be a boy, but you lack certain…parts for that."
"Not that kind of escort!" Tracks huffed. "I'm a car, so I'm literally escorting you around as a car! I'm also your fashion coach, so I would appreciate it if you cooled it with the teasing!"
Wow. He's really taking this personally. She thought. I'm used to seeing him flustered, but he really sounds mad this time.
Dyani patted the seat. "I'm sorry. You're right. You offered to help get me, so I should show you some gratitude."
The corvette relaxed. "I forgive you. As a fashionista, I take this stuff very seriously."
It wasn't long when the others showed up. The twin countaches parked beside Tracks with Sunstreaker to his right and Sideswipe to his left. Kota emerged from Sunstreaker and waited as Dyani exited Tracks. The three autobots decided to chill while their human friends spent the next couple of hours inside the spa.
After complimentary coffee and milk tea and the most wonderful massage, the two friends were reclining back in robes and their faces covered in organic herbal masks.
Kota looked over at Dyani. "Have you told him how you feel?"
"No. I only saw him awake yesterday," she explained. "Oh Kota, I want to tell him…I love him so much."
"Then you need to."
"But what if he doesn't want a relationship with a human?"
Kota reclined on his side and looked his BFF in the eye. "Then you don't have to wonder. I got an idea how to give Captain Fancypants the message."
"How?"
"Dad said after the formal stuff, they're going to have an afterparty with karaoke. I've got the perfect song for you two."
Dyani listened to Kota's recommendation and chuckled. "Oh that'll put him on the spot! Okay, I'll go through with it, but I'm nervous as hell."
"You got this. I'll be up there with you singing. We'll have him where we want him."
The two friends exited the spa feeling and looking radiant. They met with their autobot friends who were waiting to take them to their next destination. They were taken to a fashion boutique with an inhouse salon. It looked far fancier than any salon Dyani had ever set foot in. She felt out of place and was reluctant to go inside. Tracks transformed to give her a pep talk.
"This place is eco-friendly," he said. "Remember what I told you that night at the Ark? This isn't about changing who you are. This is about what you like and making it look good. You tell them what you want. They're job it to help you, not tell you how to be. Now get in there and rock it!"
An hour had passed when Dyani and Kota emerged. Dyani was wearing a thin-strapped maxi dress with a side slit, made from mulberry silk. Her hair was down, but part of it was tied on the side with a purple orchid. Instead of high heels, she wore wedges with purple straps. Kota was wearing a navy blue blazer that fit snugly on his slender frame. Beneath it he wore a short of black mulberry silk that was tucked into navy dress pants. Black loafers finished off the ensemble. His hair was somewhat spiked in the front.
The Autobots were standing around with folded arms when the humans approached. They looked down at them with approval.
"You look lovely," remarked Tracks. "And wedges are an interesting touch."
"I hate heels. They hurt my feet, so I took your advice," said Dyani.
Tracks laughed. "So you did, but it's so you!"
Sunstreaker and Sideswipe each gave Kota an approving thumb's up. "Lookin good!"
"One more thing," Tracks added. He turned away and started walking with a long stride that accentuated the movement of the hips. "Do this, placing one leg in front of the other with your shoulders back. Maintain good posture and look confident. Keep everything straight ahead and you'll sell it!"
Sunstreaker snickered. "This ain't a fashion show, Tracks!" Sideswipe chuckled along with him.
Tracks ignored the lamborghinis and strutted back to Dyani. "You try."
Dyani practiced walking the way Tracks showed her. Even with wedges, the stride made it easier to move in her dress. She sighed with relief when she saw him nod with approval.
"That's it!" he said.
Kota blushed. "You look really good, Dyani. I think we're ready."
The party was held in a large exhibition hall space at the Moscone Center. The Autobots had their own entrance to accommodate their gigantic size. Only Omega Supreme, and the Dinobots stayed behind at headquarters. The lambros arrived with Kota and his date, Omari. They held hands and walked with the brothers. Tracks arrived right after. Dyani stepped out. Tracks transformed and stood beside her. She blushed a little when he offered to take her by the hand. Dyani accepted and made her entrance. Tracks led her to tables at the front where her family and the Shimuzus were already seated. Tracks and the Lambros stood beside them. Beachcomber entered soon after. He was in alt-mode with Lilian Smith, the Australian ambassador and a thylacine-none other than Benni, inside a crate.
"Beachcomber!" Dyani waved.
The dune buggy drove up. "Hello, my friends," he said.
Kota got up to see Benni. "I thought she was at a zoo?"
"She was," explained Ms. Smith, "Thayer might be incarcerated, but the institute is alive and well. It was acquired by another entity. Their chairman is here tonight."
Dyani looked around. She noticed some businessmen far away on the other side of the room. "One of those guys?" she asked.
Ms. Smith laughed. "Close, but no. Those are the board of directors of Hybrid Technologies. Their chairman is over there with one of the autobots-that red one with the pointy head.
"You mean, Poweglide?" Kota guessed. He spotted the plane autobot and noticed there was a brown-haired young woman wearing a yellow evening gown standing beside him. The way Powerglide's arm was wrapped around her suggested they were a couple. He was also wearing a giant bow tie.
"That's correct. I'm still learning their names. The woman with him is Astoria Carlton-Ritz. She is the chairman."
Beachcomber let out a chuckle. "Only she could get someone as temperamental as Powerglide to wear a bow tie."
Kota grinned. "You mean they're a couple?" he asked with curiosity.
"They are," said Beachcomber. "Why do you ask?"
"No reason," replied Kota. He noticed Dyani was staring at the couple. She looked like she was about to cry. He knew he had to act fast. He went to Omari and told him Dyani needed help with her hair. He promised to be right back and offered to get him something to drink.
Tracks watched the two friends walk off. He sensed something was up with them, but remained in place.
Outside, Kota hugged Dyani. "Are you okay?" he asked.
Dyani shook her head. "I don't know if I can do this. What if he rejects me or thinks I'm only into him because he's a corvette?"
"Look at me!" said Kota. She obeyed and listened to him add, "You've always been the confident one, but it's okay to be scared sometimes. Now listen, you're going to sit beside him until after the formal stuff is finished. We have a banquet afterwards with karaoke. I already requested we go first. We're going to get on that stage and you're going to sing your heart out while looking at him in the optics. Dyani, if you love him-tell him. Got it?"
The girl hugged her best friend. "I love you," she cried.
"I know that. Let me help you touch up your makeup and then we'll head back."
The exhibition hall was soon filled with other guests-mainly the employees of Kagayaku Motors, country delegates, and a few representatives of the Thayer Institute. The main event started with Mr. Tamaki introduced Optimus Prime and the both of them discussing their partnership and plans for not only further developing sustainable transportation, but also the future of developing renewable infrastructure to not only ensure the autobots have a permanent presence on Earth, but to also to assist mankind with its continued measures to eliminate greenhouse emissions to combat climate change. Part of their goals also included working to protect the delicate balance of the Earth's life forms, starting with the return of the thylacines. Prime stressed freedom is the right of all sentient beings, including those of creatures like Benni. A board member of Hybrid Technologies got up to speak about the future state of the Thayer Institute and working with major zoos and countries, and the continuation of preserving critically endangered species and restoring the world's ecosystems.
As the talking came to a close, some of the guests departed. The afterparty was a slightly smaller affair, consisting of Autobots, the Witwickys, Dyani, Kota, their families, a smaller number of Kagayaku employees, the delegates, and the representatives of Hybrid technologies.
Caterers came in with a wide variety of food and drink. Even some of the autobots brought in energon for the cybertronians. The stage was set up with karaoke equipment, accompanied with two large screens. Blaster himself had volunteered to connect himself up with the infrastructure so an autobot could join in.
Kota jumped up and took Dyani by the hand. He grabbed two microphones and handed one to Dyani. She stepped forward, took a deep breath, and spoke into hers, "I am going to start us out with the assistance of Kota here," she said. A familiar tune from the late 90s began to play. It was Wannabe by the Spice Girls. Dyani started singing with the lyrics. Kota assisted with singing, "So tell me what you want, what you really, really want?". They continued to sing the lyrics. When they came to, "Oh, what do you think about that? Now you know how I feel. Say, you can handle my love, are you for real?", it became apparent that Dyani's gaze was directly on Tracks and he was quite aware of it. He stared back at her with his mouth wide open. The others in the room noticed and their heads were fixated on him. Dyani poured everything she had into her voice as she sang the remainder of the song, with Kota's assistance. When they finished, Tracks rose and walked up to the stage. His optics locked onto Dyani. The others watched in silence, wondering what he was going to do.
Tears formed in Dyani's eyes. "You once asked me if I was trying to get through to you that you're a sexy corvette. The truth is, yes, I still think so, but you're not just a car. I also think you're wonderful. You're snooty, but also insanely sweet. You're a good bot. What I'm trying to say is I love you. If you don't want to be with me, then just…" A hand was placed over her mouth.
"That was quite a mouthful," Tracks said, as he lifted Dyani up into his arms. He bent in to kiss her. He felt her tears against his cheeks.
Dyani blushed. "Do you really want this?" He nodded and held her up against his chassis.
"Go Dyani!" Kota shouted, while holding hands with Omari.
The others present either applauded or accepted though strange as it was, they seemed happy. The autobots were generally cool with it. Prime gave them a thumbs up. The Swiftwaters had agreed to keep an open mind about everything, although Kai still thought it was a little weird.
Tracks carried Dyani outside to a courtyard so they could talk in private. He had so many emotions right now, but he knew he had feelings for the organic. He set her down on a bench and sat in front of her cross legged.
"I want to be honest with you," he said. "Cybertronians live much longer than humans."
Dyani's eyes glistened. "So what? I accept that. All I care about is spending however short my life is making us happy. Making each day count is all that matters to me."
"Fair enough, but there's some things I can't do that you organics can."
Dyani laughed. "You mean sex?"
The corvette became flustered. "It's rather vulgar to state it so plainly in a public setting, but yes!"
"Why not? I don't care. I'm asexual. My family knows and learned to deal with it."
Tracks looked confused. "How can humans be asexual?"
"How can robots be male while lacking genitals?" retorted Dyani.
The autobot's face became redder. He folded his arms and gave her a hmph!
Dyani tried climbing up on his shoulder. "Look, humans are more fluid with things like physical and romantic attraction than some of them would like to admit. Like me. I love physical and romantic attention, but the s-word isn't necessary for me to find satisfaction in a relationship."
Tracks helped her up the rest of the way. "Okay," he said. "I'm willing to make this work. I believe you're sincere. You'd have to be to sing a tacky song like that."
Dyani laughed and threw her arms around his neck. "It's okay, I never understood half of the lyrics anyway."
They sat together, watching water flow in a nearby fountain. Dyani leaned against Tracks head. She looked thoughtful. "There's something important that you need to do first. You should return to New York for closure. Raoul was someone special and you haven't had a chance to say goodbye."
Glints streamed down Tracks' cheeks. He hadn't considered it. It was sad thinking about Raoul, but things didn't seem so hopeless anymore. It made sense. He needed this in order to move on onto the next chapter of his life.
"Like I said before, I ain't no replacement goldfish. You shouldn't ever forget about your first love." Dyani kissed the top of his crest.
Tracks smiled as he rose to his feet. "I think it's time we headed back," he said.
Prime was kneeling down and in conversation with the Witwickys. Swiftwaters and Shimuzus. He motioned for Tracks and Dyani to join them. "There is something we would like to discuss with you," he said.
"About us?" asked Dyani as Tracks sat down with her still on his shoulder.
Terry patted Tracks on the chassis. "First of all, welcome to the family. We were just talking about some things that need to be addressed."
"What do you mean?" inquired Tracks, feeling awkward. He wondered if Dyani's father was suggesting they might do vulgar things. This wasn't the time or place to be discussing such ideas, even though he had just established it would be impossible to Dyani. But hadn't she said they knew about her being asexual?
"Well, Dyani's still in college in Portland," Terri explained. "It's important that she completes her studies. Their university has allowed her and Kota some time off for the remainder of the summer semester, but they'll be expected to report back for the fall. Kota doesn't want to stay in the dorms this year and since you Autobots are going to be tight with Kagayaku, he's asked Prime if he can stay with you guys. We were also hoping you'd also be able to accommodate Dyani."
"Dad, do you really mean that?" questioned Dyani. "That's what I was hoping for. I want to be with him."
Tika smiled sternly at her daughter. "We know you do, but you also have to finish school. I'm sure Tracks would agree."
"Well, that is important," Tracks responded.
"We would be happy to have both Dyani and Kota stay with us. They will be in good hands," said Optimus.
Dr. Shimizu bowed to the autobot leader. "I couldn't think of a better arrangement for my son. We owe you so much."
Prime returned a bow. "You owe us nothing other than your friendship."
Kota rubbed the back of his head. "Hey Optimus Prime, do you think it would be possible to construct rooms for Dyani and me?
"We've been with the Autobots for a couple years," Spike answered. "They helped us build accommodations suited for humans. I'm sure they won't mind making new additions."
Sparkplug folded his arms and nodded affirmatively. "It won't take no more than a couple weeks. Our pal, Grapple, loves designing and building stuff."
Optimus Prime peered down at his human friends. "I will get them started at once when we return to the Ark."
"Prime," said Tracks. "There's something I have to do before we return to headquarters. I'm going to New York."
The leader gave the corvette his full attention. He placed both hands on his shoulders and replied, "You have my permission, but don't take too long. Although things are quiet for now, we haven't seen the last of the Decepticons. I'll send Blaster with you."
"I want to go with them," Dyani spoke up. "I promise I won't get into trouble."
Tracks broke out in laughter. "Trouble is your middle name, but I would welcome your company."
"Now wait a second. New York is all the way on the other side of the country," Tika spoke up. She read Terry's face and figured he was on the same page
Terry frowned. "Your mother's right."
Dyani started getting angry. "You trust me enough to be in a relationship with a robot, but you don't trust me enough to travel with him? This ain't some vacation. There's something my boyfriend needs to do and I'm sure as hell going to give him support!"
Boyfriend? Hearing that coming from her sounded kind of adorable, but this wasn't the place to make a scene. Tracks apologized to everyone and tried to remain calm. "Excuse me, but perhaps we should get some fresh air?" he offered in suggestion.
"That's a wonderful idea," said Tika.
"Excuse us," Terry added. Prime nodded. Even the Shimizus didn't seem overly offended, although Hayate thought Dyani could have expressed her displeasures a little more discreetly.
They met outside by the fountain. Tracks gave them a brief account about Raoul and his unfortunate passing. He tried fighting back his emotions, but they betrayed him as he explained. Tika put her arm around the robot. She was a bit of an empath and it was her instinct to make others feel comforted.
Terry himself patted Tracks on his other arm. "I heard they arrested that POS," he remarked.
"Thank you for being open with us," thanked Tika. Her mood had softened, but she was still upset with her daughter's tone. "Dyani, you are to apologize to everyone inside if you want to go with him to New York."
Dyani climbed down from Tracks and gave her mother a hug. "I'll start with you guys. I'm sorry."
Terry looked at Tracks in the optics. "You better keep her safe, you hear me?"
"Absolutely. We have a control center there inside Sparkplug's Garage," said Tracks. "I assure you Dyani will be perfectly safe with Blaster and me."
"Good man, I mean robot," replied Terry.
After returning to the party, Dyani made sure to apologize to everyone. Fortunately, most present were very forgiving of her outburst. Tracks settled down to dine on energon and mingle with the others. He had an arm around Dyani, who herself was in better spirits. She was served a meal. It was an eclectic fusion of American and Japanese culinary dishes. Tracks learned a little more of Dyani's quirks. He realized she seemed to prefer more vegetable matter with smaller servings of meat. She described herself as a flexitarian, meaning someone who adhered to a mostly vegetarian diet with a little bit of meat. Of course there were times she had to make exceptions, such as when visiting her relatives at the Pine Ridge Reservation or under Autobot care.
The remainder of the evening went on without a hitch. The humans and robots enjoyed the dining and merriment. A few of the autobots took turns singing karaoke, with varying success. Kota and the Lambros took turns singing death metal. It wasn't the pleasing melodic sound most present but, all that mattered was they were having fun.
When it came time for everyone to leave, Optimus Prime shook hands with the ambassadors and bowed to Mr. Tamaki. During the goodbyes, Benni started speaking from her crate. It was evident she wanted out. Beachcomber knelt down. "May I?" he asked Ms. Smith.
"I guess it's alright," she agreed.
Beachcomber opened the crate and the animal exited and placed her paw in his hand. "Thank you…big metal friend." She slowly approached Kota and the Lambros. "You take care…and free…thylacine…," she said. And lastly, she hopped over to Dyani and Tracks, and said, "Thank you. You set…me free…soon go home."
Tracks approached the thylacine. He too knelt down to her and whispered, "Wurrawana-Corinna,". The animal was surprised, but seemed to have an understanding of what he meant.
"What's that mean?" asked Beachcomber.
"It means Great Ghost," Ms Smith replied. "The idiginous tribes of Tasmania believed the constellation known as Gemini was their great thylacine spirit. It is their belief that every person has a totem that represents many aspects of their lives. Unfortunately, many of the foreign settlers did not share their views and are the ones largely responsible for the disappearance of the last remaining thylacines. Soon they will return to Tasmania and beyond."
Dyani stroked Benni's fur. "Do you also mean mainland Australia and New Guinea?"
"That is correct. A third of them will be transported to each of their traditional ranges and their offspring will be relocated between each region to help encourage genetic diversity as their numbers increase. Benni's video has gone viral and we've received an outpouring of donations and volunteers who are helping us prepare areas set aside as sanctuaries."
"I want to see it!," Astria protested, as she dragged Powerglide towards the crate. The jet grumbled along the way.
"But I've already seen it like a million times already!" he barked.
"Well, I haven't!" Astoria replied as she stooped down to get a better look at the striped marsupial. Her eyes sparkled with excitement. "Aww, what a cutie pie! I'm so happy my company is going to help them."
Powerglide rubbed his head and muttered, "Dames…"
"Now I know how you feel," gested Tracks.
"It's kinda nice," Powerglide admitted. "Astoria makes me laugh. What do you see in your girl?"
"Well…" Tracks bagan, feeling a bit sheepish about being put on the spot. He noticed Dyani had diverted her gaze up at him as she too wanted to know the answer. "She's kind of rude, but has the best intentions. She can also be sweet and caring when I need support. She also likes designing stuff and appreciates the classics like my stunning auto mode."
Both Astoria and Dyani giggled. The latter held the corvette's hand. Tracks smiled with relief.
As much as Ms. Smith was enjoying the long farewell, she had a flight to catch back to Melbourne. Benni was to travel with her to serve as ambassador of her kind in Australia. They had been given the greenlight for her to travel safely along with her twin joeys in a pressurized cabin. "It's time for us to go. We have a long flight back to Australia."
Dyani and Kota hugged her. "We'll miss you, girl." they said.
"You…friends," the thylacine answered. She turned and glanced at them, and added, "Thank…you". She disappeared inside her crate and curled up into a ball.
Beachcomber closed the door. "It has been my pleasure to serve you, noble creature."
Prime turned to the autobots and said, "It's time we also took our leave. We have a long drive back ahead of us. Sunstreaker, Sideswipe, I expect you both back at the end of the week. Tracks, Blaster, I expect you back within two."
Kota was excited to know the brothers were staying a little longer. He wanted them to get to know Omari a little better.
Blaster had already transformed into his boombox alt-mode. Thanks to mass-shifting, he could fit almost anywhere. Dyani lifted him up by the handle. "You're old school," she said.
"I prefer classic," he laughed.
Sparkplug shook hands with Terry. "I'll be in touch."
Mr. Swiftwater gave a nod. "I'm looking forward to it. And I trust you'll keep an eye on the kids?"
"You got it," said Sparkplug.
Outside, the few remaining autobots and guests watched as Optimus Prime and the others departed for home. Hybrid Technologies and most of Kagayaku Motors had also left. Sunstreaker transformed to take Kota and Omari, while Sideswipe was in charge of Hayate. Terry asked to ride with Tracks. Dyani gave her father a weird look. He pointed out that since Tika got to ride in a flying corvette, it was only fair that her old man got a turn.
Tracks flew above San Francisco. He decided to take the scenic route back to the Swiftwater residence. Terry was in the driver's seat while Dyani rode shotgun. Blaster was nestled in the space behind the seats and provided some tunes for travel. It was a relaxing flight that seemed to be over all too soon, much to Mr. Swiftwater's disappointment. Tracks landed on the road in front of their house and drove into the garage.
"That was fun. Thanks for the ride," said Terry.
Dyani hugged her father. "I'll be in soon."
He smirked. "I get it. Don't be up too late." He turned to Tracks. "You better make sure of that, you hear?"
The corvette laughed. "You have my word, sir."
The girl kicked her wedges off and climbed up on top of the hood. Tracks didn't seem to mind so much now. He gave out a contented sigh as he stretched his tires. What a wonderful way to end an evening. Blaster was already in stasis mode, so it was just the two of them.
Dyani reclined on her side and stroked along the flame decal. The corvette responded to her touch with a slight shudder. Blushing, she eased up a bit. Although she knew the robot wasn't capable of certain stimuli, he was perfectly capable of feeling pleasure.
"It's quite alright," reassured Tracks. "Your touch is rather nice. Please continue."
She obeyed and went back to stroking him. "This is nice," she whispered.
Tracks gave out another sigh. As much as he was enjoying her affections, he wanted to talk about New York. "Dyani," he said. "I think we should depart in a day or two. We'll be flying much of the way of course, and driving some. You'll want to bring some money of course since you can't consume energon."
"That won't be a problem. I have some saved up for a rainy day," she replied. "I always wanted to try New York-style pizza."
"You do you as they say," said Tracks. He yawned quietly and whispered, "You're putting me to sleep. Perhaps just as well."
With a smile, Dyani stepped off the hood and hugged his left fender. "Go ahead into stasis then. I might not own you, but you're my corvette."
He chuckled softly. "I suppose I can accept that. Good night, my dear."
Dyani hugged his fender again. "Good night, Tracks."
As she walked into the house, Dyani reflected on the evening. She had been so afraid of admitting her feelings, and now she not only had her dream car (sort of), she also had a boyfriend. She admitted their relationship was unique and would probably take more work than had both of them been human, but it would be worth it. He was worth it.