I do not own Transformers Prime or Harry Potter
(Outside the Autobot Base)
Ratchet was tapping his foot on the ground as he stared at the moon, "Why are we out here? I thought you said we were leaving?" They were standing in front of the road that was close to their base.
Jacqueline turned to look at the medic, "We could drive to the next town, but I know you don't want to waste any energon for your vehicles, right? Besides, we want to show you how wizards travel." She shivered a bit, "And no offense, Ratchet, the ground bridge honestly makes me sick to my stomach. It makes our magic feel all distorted." Miko and Raf shared similar reactions.
The Autobots watched as Jacqueline lifted her wand and began waving it as if she were calling for someone. Arcee looked perplexed, "What are you doing?" He asked as she put her wand away.
Jacqueline looked over her shoulder, "Just wait."
The Autobots looked down the empty stretch of road when they heard a horn. Optimus had to blink twice as a triple-decker bus slowly materialized in front of them. Ratchet's jaw was ajar when the massive bus appeared from thin air. Beside him, Wheeljack whistled, "Now I didn't see that comin'."
At the end of the bus, there was a small creature wearing a lobby boy's suit, "Welcome to the Knight Bus," He said as he read the levitating card in front of his face, "Emergency transport for a stranded witch or wizard. My name is~ugh~just get in." The house-elf was sick of reading this script.
Arcee looked at the creature and winced at its grim appearance, "What is the name of Primus is that?" He asked aloud without realizing it.
The tiny creature sneered at him, "What? You ain't ever seen a house-elf before?"
Jacqueline quickly responded, "No, he has. Um… he was casting spells earlier and ended up obliviating himself. His memory is just shot right now." Arcee then recalled what Jacqueline had told them about non-magical people.
Miko sighed, "C'mon, people, we're wasting time." She stepped onto the bus while handing the house-elf eleven sickles. She stopped and looked at Raf, "Oh~right. Here you go, little dude." She paid for Raf's ticket and handed the house-elf the money.
Jacqueline conjured a small leather sack that fell into her hand, "Let's see there are eight of us, 11 sickles per person… 17 sickles per galleon…" She closed her eyes and did a quick conversion. "Here you go." She handed the house-elf seven galleons, "You can keep the rest." She paid almost two galleons more than what was required, but house-elves got so little income.
The house-elf gasped when she gave him two extra galleons, "Y~yes, thank you, please come aboard." He immediately catered to her every need. For a house-elf to get a single galleon would keep him fed for weeks. Most wizards never gave him a tip. The only wizards who treated house-elves kindly were mostly muggle-borns and a few half-bloods.
The Autobots were a little cautious as they stepped into the strange bus. There was a chandelier in the center and a series of benches for them to take a seat on. "By the Allspark." Ratchet said as he looked around the bus. The inside was vastly more extensive than what it should be on the outside. He turned to Optimus with wide eyes.
Jacqueline grabbed Ratchet and Arcee's hand, "C'mon, we don't want to keep everyone waiting." She pulled them over to a bench and sat down. Arcee and Ratchet took a seat, and she was left stuck between them. "You might want to hold onto something."
The house-elf grabbed a cane and pounded on the window, "Take us away, Earnie!"
Everyone saw an old man at the wheel jump and take a bite of his sandwich. There was a talking head next to him, "Ya, take us away, Earnie! It's going to be a bumpy ride~ahhhha!"
The Autobots were unprepared for the bus to send them back into their seats. The Knight Bus was speeding down the road, going faster than any vehicle on Cybertron. Not even Blurr's car could reach this speed. Bulkhead grabbed the arm of the bench as the bus turned, "Frag me! Ugh~I think I'm gonna be sick." A bag hit him in the face when the house-elf snapped his fingers.
"In the bag. I'm not cleaning up any more vomit today." The house-elf told him with a glare. "Where are you heading?" He looked at Jacqueline when asking this. His bitter mood changed when he looked at the pretty witch.
"Hodag Alley," Jacqueline said as she gripped the bench. The bus took a sharp right turn, and she fell against Arcee; meanwhile, Ratchet's face landed in her chest. The three of them were blushing. Arcee struggled to breathe as Jacqueline's body pressed against his, and Ratchet's face was steaming red.
Ratchet pulled back and cleared his throat, "I'm sorry about that."
The shrunken head laughed at Ratchet, "Na~mey man! You weren't makin' a~great~ah move. Hahaha! Earnie! An old lady at 12 o'clock!"
Optimus peered through the window in front and saw an old woman walking across the street. Panic filled him as they were going too fast to slow down. Optimus grunted and held the seat as they lurched forward when Earnie pulled the breaks. Bulkhead, who was seated beside him, flew forward and hit his face into the glass.
"Ugh!" Bulkhead rubbed his head, "Now I'm really gonna be sick." He walked back to his seat and sat down.
Wheeljack was laughing, "You kiddin', Bulk? This thing is the best!" He was the only mech here who loved this chaotic ride. He glanced at Jacqueline and smirked as he took in her complexion, 'Maybe stayin' on this rock won't be so boring after all.' His original plan was to drop Ultra Magnus off and then high tail out of here. 'Can't say I don't enjoy the sights.' Wheeljack did not usually stare at a femme, but it was hard for him to look anywhere else. A smug feeling filled Wheeljack as he recalled the enamored look on her face when he told her some of his war stories. 'Fraggin' con went and made me seem like a creep. Now, why would I leave and have this femme still believin' that?'
Ultra Magnus was sitting next to Bulkhead and using a single hand to hold himself in place. He seemed relatively unfazed by the ride. Turning his head back, Jacqueline was on the bench behind him. "Is this form of transport always so reckless?"
Jacqueline sat up after the bus shot forward again, "At least the benches are mounted. For the longest time, they weren't." She spoke in a low whisper, "Welcome to the wizarding world. This is not the worst way to travel for wizards."
Ratchet sighed as they drove straight and weren't taking any more sharp turns, "I cannot believe I'm admitting this, but Wheeljack's stunts are easier on my stomach."
Bumblebee was seated next to Raf and protectively kept his charge from flying forward. Raf held the seat as Bumblebee kept his hand over his chest, "Thanks, Bee. How are you holding up?"
Bumblebee gave a thumbs up and smiled, "I'm managing. Could go for a seat belt, but I just want to make sure you don't fly off." When he saw what happened to Bulkhead, he refused to let that happen to Raf.
Raf smiled at his charge, "Ya, I remember when my Dad took me on this bus for the first time. He was scared I'd go flying out the window. If we do go somewhere, he prefers to use floo powder."
Bumblebee scratched the back of his head, "It looks like I've got a lot to learn about wizards." He made sure to whisper what he was saying.
Miko was utterly unfazed by the sharp turns of the bus, "Hah! Are you guys seriously freaked out?" She thought it was hysterical to see their reactions.
(Five Minutes Later)
The Autobots got off the Knight Bus and were left slightly nauseated from all the sharp turns. Ratchet rubbed his head, "Primus, my head is ringing." During their journey, they had been squeezed together, which startled all of them. 'The bus literally slowed down time! That should be impossible.' Even Optimus was left bewildered when everything outside the confines of the bus slowed down.
Arcee was bent forward with his hand on his knees. Jacqueline was patting his back, "Ugh~my servos. Next time I'm taking my motorcycle."
Jacqueline gave Arcee a sympathetic look, "I'm sorry it was so nauseating for you. Hey, at least we're here in record time." The drive would have taken the Autobots an hour. And they didn't want them to waste energon on the ground bridge. "Though you can't deny it was pretty funny to see your reactions when we squeezed between those two semi-trucks."
Arcee shivered from feeling Jacqueline's hand on his back, 'S~scrap.' Every time she touched him, it sent his body into a heated frenzy. His skin was itching to feel her soft flesh pressed against his. "I'll be alright. I just need to catch my breath." He stood up and smirked, "Were you joking when you said your mother's station wagon could beat me?"
Jacqueline smirked when he brought this up, 'He remembers that conversation?' They talked about it the second day they were together, "My mother's car isn't enchanted. She's just an insane driver." Her knees went weak as Arcee gave her a smirk, "What?"
Arcee shrugged, "Nothing… just… taking in the sight." And by sight, he meant her. 'Has she always looked so fragging beautiful?' Maybe his rage in the past clouded it, but this femme was utterly breathtaking. 'I can't believe I tried to weasel my way out of being her charge.' It had taken some time, but now that Arcee had gotten to know his charge, he was enamored with her.
Jacqueline continued to give Arcee a smirk while raising a brow, "Then you might want to divert your sight up here." She pointed to her face when it looked as though he were staring at her chest. She was just joking but failed to realize he actually was staring.
Arcee chuckled. This was the first time she's heard him laugh like this, "Sorry, your highness." That burning desire in his chest was growing exponentially. "I didn't know staring into space was a crime."
Jacqueline rolled her as while smiling, "Ya~ya, c'mon, let's go." She grabbed his hand and pulled him along as everyone followed Miko.
Arcee's breathing went rigid as she held his hand, 'She's so small.' His hand tightened around hers as he took in her complexion. Arcee knew Jacqueline was staring at him during the lobbing tournament with Bulkhead and Bumblebee. 'Maybe I should just start walking around without my shirt on if she ends up a mess like that.' Seeing his charge gawk at him made his spark swell with pride. 'I've gotta talk to Bee.' He saw the lustful gaze Bumblebee gave Jacqueline. The other scout clearly craved her just as bad as him.
The Autobots followed Miko and Raf, who were ahead of the group. The town they were in was slightly barren, and besides the occasional drunkard stumbling out of a bar, it was quiet. The group soon approached a giant statue of a pilgrim wearing a mayflower hat. In his right hand was a cane, and he had a single foot placed atop a small stone. Bulkhead looked around, "So, where are we going?"
Miko chuckled, "Dude, it's right here." She pointed to the statue of the pilgrim.
Optimus looked up and noticed the statue was moving. The pilgrim looked down at them and used his cane to separate the stone cloth at the statue's base. The Autobots were taken back when Miko and Raf walked through the stone wall, disappearing completely.
Arcee looked at the statue of the pilgrim, "What the scrap?"
Jacqueline pulled his hand, "Let's go. This might feel weird." She pulled Arcee and herself through the base of the statue.
Wheeljack was the first one to step forward, "That's a pretty neat trick." Without hesitation, he walked through the statue. One after another, the Autobots strode through the ward and were greeted with the same street. However, instead of a quiet town, they saw wizards walking about, some doing midnight shopping, others to see the circus. They saw a leprechaun made of fireworks dancing above the tent in the center of the street in the sky.
Arcee stared at all the magic happening before his eyes, and his jaw went ajar, "Talk about putting on a show." He had seen many things in his lifetime, but nothing prepared him for this.
Jacqueline giggled at his reaction, "I didn't think you'd all look this surprised? You haven't seen anything yet. I heard they have an occamy in the tent, so that might be worth seeing." She peered down at her clothes and lifted her wand.
Arcee and the rest of the Autobots watched as Jacqueline's clothes dissolved into wizard robes. He forced himself to look away as he thought of her using magic to remove all of her clothing. Arcee trembled lightly as he felt a powerful desire to roam his hand across this femme and hear her moan. 'Scrap… I want this femme so fragging bad.' Yet, he knew it'd take some time before he gained Jacqueline's full respect. 'I just had to be an aft to the one femme my spark yearns for, didn't I?' He mentally shouted at himself for treating her so poorly. 'She still probably thinks I'm only treating her better because I know she's a witch.' Nevertheless, he'd find a way to make this femme his. Arcee took a deep breath as he envisioned her in his bed while both of them were caught in an endless cycle of interfacing.
Bulkhead's throat locked up as he saw Jacqueline's clothing dissolve into something from a fairy tale. Her robes looked far more elegant than what you would find at a Halloween store. The wrecker bit the side of his tongue and grunted as he became turned on by this sight of Jacqueline in her new clothing. He elbowed Wheeljack, "Scrap. She makes the femme from Iacon look ugly in comparison." He whispers to his closest friend.
Wheeljack leaned against the side of the statue, "You took the words right out of my mouth, Bulk." As the wreckers lustfully imagined this witch pressed up against them, Optimus was struggling to breathe.
In all his life, Optimus had never lost his breath. His encounter with her back at the base left the Prime aching to feel her pressed against his chest. His skin was burning up as he recalled the feeling of her hands resting against him. He took a deep breath and sighed. The smells coming from the stands and shops were wondrous.
Jacqueline glanced over at Ultra Magnus and Optimus. "I just wanted to apologize to both of you right now." She stood before the two giant mechs and waved her hand while reciting a funny word. Optimus and Ultra Magnus grunted as her magic echoed through their bodies. In a matter of seconds, their blue hair changed color.
Optimus looked at Ultra Magnus and saw the mech had black hair. Looking back towards a shop window, he could see his hair was no longer deep blue, "You changed our hair color?"
Jacqueline nodded, "Even amongst wizards, you'd stand out with blue hair." She glanced at Ultra Magnus, who had a raised eyebrow, "S~sorry, I probably should've asked first. Would you like me to change your hair back, Sir?" There was something about Ultra Magnus's gaze that made her knees grow weak. 'He's like a stern version of Optimus.'
Ultra Magnus shook his head, "That will not be necessary. I had not considered my appearance would differ so greatly from humans."
Wheeljack came over and threw an arm over Jacqueline, "Are we gonna stand here all day, or are you gonna show us around, Hot Stuff?" The wrecker grinned when he saw her blush. As the humans led the Autobots through the street, they were enamored with everything they witnessed.
Miko looked a few feet away and saw a man with a large ring, "Hey, over here!" She gave the circus performer a signal. "Bulkhead, watch this." They all watched as Miko ran and jumped through the ring.
Ratchet's eyes widened when Miko floated upwards as she was concealed in a bubble, "I~I… but that… it… impossible." His mind was officially broken by everything he was seeing. Nevertheless, that did not stop the excitement in his spark.
Jacqueline smirked as she stepped beside him, "It sure is something, isn't it?" She leaned over to look at Raf, who was being watched over by Bumblebee, "Are you gonna go, Raf?" She motioned to the enchanted ring that was lifting wizards into the air.
Raf shook his head quickly, "No, thank you. I hate heights."
Jacqueline giggled, "I'm guessing you weren't particularly excited about riding a broom, were you?"
Raf looked embarrassed as he responded, "I… uh… might have slammed straight into a wall my first time."
Jacqueline winced, "I know the feeling. My first time, I caught in the whomping willow." It didn't take long for the Autobots to approach different stands filled with all manner of magical objects. Jacqueline stood between Arcee and Bulkhead as they looked at the magical treats being sold. She glanced at Bulkhead and Arcee before coming up with a wonderful idea, "Excuse me, can I get three chocolate cauldrons?" The wizard behind the stand snapped his fingers, and the treats came floating over. Putting some knuts on the counter, she handed the delicious treats to the two Autobots. "Try this."
Arcee looked at the chocolate cauldron with uncertainty, "I don't know. Last time we had human food, I spent the entire day washing my tongue."
Jacqueline rolled her eyes, "Are you telling me the great Arcee is scared of a little human food?" She asked with a coy smirk.
Arcee crossed his arms and returned the smirk, "Alright, I'll play your little game." She was doing it again, teasing him, and it was making it nearly impossible to think. He grabbed the treat and removed it from the box. Bulkhead was also opening his box. As soon as the chocolatey delight was removed from the container, green smoke billowed from the top as it mimicked a real cauldron. "Is it supposed to do that?"
Jacqueline nodded, "It has firewhisky in the center. It's just a spell that makes it act like an actual cauldron." She watched as Arcee and Bulkhead took a bite of their magical treats. 'I'll save this treat for Ratchet.' She took him as the type of person who would love chocolate cauldrons.
Arcee's eyes widened as he chewed the delicious treat. The Autobot couldn't describe the robust taste of the chocolate or firewhisky. "Well, I'll be scrapped. This is pretty damn good."
Bulkhead was smiling as he happily took another bite of the treat, "I didn't know human food could taste so delicious."
Jacqueline was beaming as their reactions, "I think the proper wording is sweet, Bulkhead. I know where I'm taking all of you later. C'mon, let's see what the others are doing." She grabbed their hands and pulled them through the street. They approached Optimus, who was beside Ratchet, as they studied a dragon inside a floating cage. "Wow… a Ukrainian Ironbelly." It was a baby, but she was surprised to see such a rare dragon in a place like this.
Ratchet studied the creature, "I thought a dragon would be bigger. Then again, I never assumed they existed."
"It's a baby, Ratchet. They can't bring in an actual adult Ukrainian Ironbelly. They are very dangerous."
Ratchet lifted his thumb and finger to his chin, "This is remarkable." He watched as the dragon breathed fire and flapped its tiny wings.
Bulkhead chuckled, "Man, I haven't seen Ratchet this interested in something since he got his hands on the cube~thingy."
Jacqueline looked back, "Cube~thingy?"
"Ya, that small cube with a bunch of colors on it. Ratchet was trying to figure out how to solve it."
"Are you talking about a Rubix cube?" She asked.
Bulkhead snapped his fingers, "Ya! That was it. Hehe~man, you should've seen Ratchet when he solved it." The Autobot Medic was scrunched over the cube for hours at the base, trying to solve it. Now he has it sitting in his room.
Jacqueline turned to Optimus, "So, how are you enjoying Hodag Alley, Optimus? You've been kinda quiet." Beside them, a performer shot fire from his mouth, and it started wisping its way throughout the alley.
Optimus looked at Jacqueline and gave a genuine smile, "I must confess I'm finding myself to be impressed with your species. It's been some time since I've allowed myself to indulge in such civil customs." His processor was blown with wonder at all he'd witnessed. No words could begin to describe how impressed he was with magic.
Jacqueline gave Optimus a sympathetic smile, "Everyone needs a day or two to allow themselves to unwind. You're just long overdue for one." She looked up, and fireworks were shooting down towards them. She giggled at Optimus's fascinated expression as mini-fireworks exploded beside them. "Hey, I wanna show you something. We'll be right back, you guys." Grabbing Optimus's hand, she pulled him towards one of the shops.
"Where are we going?" Optimus asked with a confused look as they stepped into a shop. Unlike the excitement outside, the shop was relatively quiet. Behind the counter was a middle-aged man writing with a quill pen as books floated behind him.
"Welcome to Flourish and Blotts. May I help you?" The shop owner asked as he looked up. "Miss Darby, to what do I owe the pleasure?" She made frequent visits to his bookstore, and he admired any wizard who had a knack for reading.
Jacqueline waved, "I'm just showing my friend here around. He's a little new to the area." She turned, "Optimus, I'd like you to meet Freddrick Edwardson. He manages the bookstore here in Hodag Alley."
Optimus nodded his head, "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
Frederick tilted his head, "That is a funny name you have, now isn't it? Though I suppose I have heard stranger." He stood up and approached the two, "Hmmm… Am I in the presence of another scholar?"
Optimus raised a brow, "I used to work as an archive clerk." He hoped humans had some job profession here on Earth.
The manager was brimming with joy, "I could tell. From your posture to how you study my collection of books, it was a tell-tale sign. I used to be the head archivist at the Library of Alexandria." Unbeknownst to muggles, the Library of Alexandria still existed but was hidden after it was seen that muggles could not appreciate magic and attempted to scorch the vast collection of human and wizard knowledge. In modern history textbooks, it was believed the library was burned to the grounds.
Jacqueline looked at Optimus, "I didn't know you were an archivist. In that case, I'm glad I brought you here. Do you mind if I show him around?"
Frederick motioned his hand, "By all means. But before you go, those books you ordered have arrived. They are over there by the window." Jacqueline excused herself to gather the stack of books. Some were for Raf, and she wanted to surprise him. "A fine witch right there, young man."
Optimus raised a brow, "I'm sorry?"
"Miss Darby," Frederick stated and took a step closer, "If I were you, young man, I would not squander your chance. It's not every day you see a witch show this much appreciation for magic or literature." Jacqueline says she is not a bookworm, but he disagrees.
Optimus looked a little nervous, "I can assure you, Miss Darby and I are not~"
The manager shook his hands and head, "Yep~yep, don't curse yourself, you fool!" Frederick leaned forward and started to whisper, "You are a very lucky muggle who should not be squandering his attempt at happiness. Now, as a fellow archivist, go and make an impression on her."
Optimus became worried, "You know that I am not a wizard?"
Frederick shrugged, "And? I do not cast judgment on muggles. Though I will say your expression to my shop was quite a giveaway. Now, if you'll excuse me… I have to find my lost collection of invisible books." He walked to an empty table and felt around, "Hmmm… where did I put those books?"
Optimus walked over to Jacqueline as she picked up her books, "Would you like me to carry those for you?"
Jacqueline shook her head, "You don't need to worry about these." The books vanished before their eyes, "I'll just conjure them when I get home. What were you and Fredrick talking about?"
Optimus thought about what Fredrick had told him, "Nothing of importance. You desired to show me around?" Even though he maintained a calm demeanor, Optimus wanted to browse through every book here. For the first time in years, his chest was bubbling with excitement. When was the last time he felt genuine excitement like this?
"I don't know what you'll like, but I thought I'd show you some of the collections. Personally, I love alchemy, but I wouldn't expect you to understand that." She quickly corrected herself, "Not that you can't. It's just a difficult field of magic. You would find potion-making simpler than alchemy." Grabbing his hand, she pulled him towards the vast bookcases. "Um~ah, here it is. I know You and Ratchet will cherish this book." She grabbed a thick black book and handed it to him.
Optimus read the cover, "The Fundamentals of Magic?" He looked up, "I do believe Ratchet would greatly appreciate it if he had a copy. I am also curious about how magic functions."
Jacqueline nodded, "It's a notable book. Most wizards don't care to read about the fundamentals of magic. That is why you'll see plenty of wizards struggle with certain spells." As the two of them browsed through the collection, Jacqueline stopped and smiled, "Oh~I haven't read this book in years." She grabbed a small blue book from the shelf.
Optimus, who was holding a few books, looked at her melancholy expression, "Are you well, Jacqueline?"
"Hm?" She looked at Optimus, "Sorry, I'm just recalling some fond memories." She lifted the book, "The Tales of Beedle the Bard. My mother read me a few of these stories when we first came to Hodag Alley. They're stories for wizard children. We have 'Babbitty Rabbitty and her Cackling Stump,' 'The Fountain of Fair Fortune.' And I could never forget the 'Tale of the Three Brothers.' The only story my mother refused to read was 'The Warlock's Hairy Heart.' She thought the story was too dark."
"How so?" Optimus asked with curiosity.
"The story doesn't have a happy ending. If anything, it is meant to warn children about using the dark arts. Once, a wizard swore he would never fall in love because he thought it was a sign of weakness. Using dark magic, he ripped his heart from his chest and locked it in a jar where it grew black hairs and shriveled up." Optimus was enamored with the story so far, "In the end, he met a witch who he invited to dinner to take as his wife since he was envious of gaining everyone's respect. When she asked if he had a heart, he showed her his shriveled heart that he kept locked away. After he put his heart back into his chest, he became a savage since his heart had been disconnected from him for so long. In the end, the wizard prince kills the witch and carves her heart from her chest, and attempts to use it as his own. However, since the heart was not his, it would not work. It ends abruptly with them both dying and warns about the evil nature of the dark arts."
Optimus was shocked to hear this story's gruesome ending. He felt sickened by the idea of removing his spark from his chest. "That is quite a tragic end. I see why your mother was not willing to read you such a story." If he had a sparkling, he would never read such a horrific tale to them.
Jacqueline flipped through the book, "The moral of the story was to teach children not to meddle with the dark arts. Though, in theory, it is impossible for a wizard to remove their heart from their body, even with magic."
"I assume magic has limitations when it comes to your heart?"
She nodded, "It has to do with love." Jacqueline looked up and quickly explained herself, "What we know as the emotion, love, is actually a powerful force that creates the most unique and strongest types of magic."
"I do not seem to understand. How can love create magic?" Optimus wouldn't deny he was curious. Even to cybertronians, love was an unexplainable emotion.
"Magic has a strong connection to a wizard's emotions. That unique feeling, what we call love, that burning sensation in your chest for someone else, is the most powerful force of magic." To emphasize her point, she tapped Optimus's chest. Optimus felt his spark tremble when she touched the area in front of his spark chamber. "Any wizard with a brain would tell you that trying to understand magical-love is easily the most confusing type of magic there is. Later this week, I'm actually going to be teaching Raf about sacrificial love. It's a requirement for all Ilvermorny students to understand this concept."
Optimus tilted his head, "Our species too has little understanding of love. Cybertronians cannot describe the feeling in our sparks when it decides to choose a mate. Though I must ask, what is this sacrificial love you speak of?"
Jacqueline's cheeks were starting to heat up. This talk of love around Optimus was making her feel shy, "Sacrificial love is a type of magic that is used to offer someone you love the ultimate protection. When a wizard willingly gives their life for someone they genuinely love, that magic leaves a lasting mark even in death. For example, if I died sacrificing myself for you, you would not be harmed by whoever killed me. Or anyone who is also wanting to hurt you." Jacqueline didn't notice the frown creeping its way onto Optimus. He did not like the idea of Jacqueline dying for him. "There is a catch, though, and this is where people are confused about how sacrificial love works. When you sacrifice yourself, it has to be willing on your part, and the person who is about to kill you has to give you the choice of either walking away or staying to die."
"I suppose this would only work in particular circumstances." Optimus had a grim expression.
Jacqueline nodded her head, "But the magic does work. If the person who killed your loved one attempted to touch you, they'd turn to dust or worse. They could even try to shoot you, and the bullet would be deflected." Optimus was shocked to hear this, "And they wouldn't even be able to send another person to attempt to kill you. Even if they had someone under the imperious curse."
Optimus didn't realize he was grinding his teeth, "Even with this protection, I would never wish for my sparkmate to die by the hands of my enemy."
"Nobody wants it, but in the heat of the moment, if you knew there was a way to save someone you loved, wouldn't you do the same?" Optimus fell silent. There was no doubt in his spark that he would sacrifice himself for his sparkmate. Even with the war for their planet raging across the stars, his sparkmate would always come first.
"What is this imperious curse you mentioned?"
Jacqueline shifted uncomfortably, "The imperious curse? Oh~right… I keep forgetting you don't know everything about the magical community or magic in general. The imperious curse is one of the three unforgivable curses. The spell was created a long time ago, and it's used to basically brainwash someone."
"I have met some cybertronians who have attempted different forms of brainwashing, but none were very successful. Though the Decepticon known as Mindwipe has proven himself as an expert of controlling a mech's processor." Optimus frowned at the thought of Mindwipe. Despite his label as a Decepticon, it was just a ruse as he only fledged loyalty to himself.
"I'm guessing he must be quite a notable person if he's able to brainwash your kind."
Optimus nodded, "Mindwipe is a rather disturbed mech. He tends to use mechs and femme to satisfy his own need for interfacing."
Jacqueline's face turned red, "Oh… he's one of those people. There have been a few wizards throughout history who have been known to do that as well. They don't mention this of any of the famous witch or wizard cards, but Herpo the Foul, a dark wizard for Greece, he… well… in his youth, he was a very active man, if you catch my drift."
Optimus seemed to understand her implication, "I'm assuming he used this spell to brainwash humans to satisfy his own intimacy?"
"Most wizard historians try to brush over the fact that Herpo had a large concubine of people under his control."
"People?" Optimus asked.
"Herpo the Foul liked men and women. Though he did have a stronger attraction for men. Long story short, he was using people against their will with the imperious curse." It was rumored that he was the creator of the curse, but there was no verified proof.
Optimus nodded in understanding, "Mindwipe is very similar with such brainwashing techniques."
Jacqueline's face shifted uncomfortably, "I'm using the word brainwashing very lightly. It's a lot more complex and darker than simply controlling someone's mind. The imperious curse lets you have complete control over someone. They will do anything you say, and worst of all, you may not even know someone is under the effects of the spell."
"Is there no indication of a mech or femme being controlled?" Optimus asked.
"Not really. If you don't cast the spell correctly, someone's eyes might be glazed over, but a talented dark wizard can cast the spell on many people. But thankfully, the curse is unforgivable, so nobody will even attempt it. Not unless they want to be arrested."
"I see." Optimus said with an added nod, "When you say it is unforgivable, do you mean to say it is morally unforgiving for your species to cast this magic?"
Jacqueline giggled at Optimus's minimal knowledge of magic, "In a manner of speaking, yes. When I say it's unforgivable, by wizarding law, if any wizard casts this spell, they'd be sent to Azkaban for life, no exceptions. Unless, of course, someone forced you to cast one of the unforgivable curses on someone else while under the imperious curse."
"I am not human, but I can see such laws being enacted on Cybertron. And what are these other two curses?" He asked with utter curiosity.
"There is the cruciatus curse and the killing curse. The criciatus curse is a spell used to torture someone, and believe me, it is a pain that cannot be explained. Some wizards have even gone insane because of how utterly gruesome it is." Optimus was frowning at the mention of this curse. He never approved of torture, even if it meant getting information from a Decepticon. "The killing curse is the worst of them all. It is unimaginably difficult to cast, so don't expect your average wizard to be able to use this spell, but a dark wizard will kill you instantly with this spell."
Optimus's frown deepened, "Instantly?" He obviously had some doubts.
"The spell can burn a hole through protective spells, which makes it even deadlier. If it hits you anywhere on your body, you'll die instantly." Jacqueline could tell by Optimus's reaction he was getting angry at the mention of the dark arts.
Optimus looked Jacqueline over before asking his next question, "Would you be able to cast this spell?"
"Me?" Jacqueline shook her head, "Magic is a lot more complex than it looks. We're not just waving our wands in the air and saying funny words. You have to mean it and fully intend to kill a person for the curse to work. Personally… I can't see myself killing someone with the spell, so it wouldn't work for me. The most I could probably do is make someone have a nose bleed. But again, the spell is forbidden. I don't want to ever risk casting it and spend the rest of my life in Azkaban. It's not a pleasant place."
Optimus smiled softly at Jacqueline's innocent nature, "It seems I still have quite a lot to learn about magic. I do hope you forgive all my questions."
Jacqueline shrugged as she slowly grew nervous, "You don't need to apologize. I know you're just curious about magic. I can't say I wasn't the same way." She led the Autobot Leader through the many book stacks that exceeded the external structure of the building.
Looking up, Optimus noticed red dust falling between them and became perplexed, "I have never seen a plant such as this." It was green with small red berries.
Jacqueline gasped, "It's a mistletoe." She looked around, wanting to shout at wherever cast this magic. "Oh, this is bad." She dropped the book and covered her face.
Optimus grew concerned, "What is wrong, Jacqueline?" Her face was beet red… and… it drove his spark wild. Just as Jacqueline dropped her hands, she didn't see Ratchet walking towards them.
"I was wondering where you two went off to. What is~"
"Wait, Ratchet, don't… too late." Jacqueline sighed as Ratchet stood next to Optimus, and the mistletoe grew. There was a strange red glow coming from the plant.
"I'm sorry?" Ratchet looked at Optimus for an explanation on Jacqueline's behavior, "What is that?" He pointed to the plant growing on the ceiling. Ratchet attempted to stand back but realized he couldn't move his feet.
Jacqueline's heart was shaking, "Please tell me it was only you who came into the store."
From the opposite end of the book stack, Arcee and Bulkhead were walking over, "I told you we'd find them. Leave it to Optimus to get lost in a bookstore." Bulkhead laughed as he walked over with Arcee.
"Stop!" Jacqueline looked back when she heard Bulkhead's voice, but it was too late. Bulkhead and Arcee were soon underneath the mistletoe. The enchanted plant grew more prominent as it sensed Autobots deepest desires.
Arcee raised a brow, "Whoa, calm down, no need to~huh? What the hell?" He attempted to step back, but his boot adhered to the ground. His foot burned as he struggled, and it felt as though knives were cutting his feet. "Ah!"
"Stop moving!" Jacqueline shouted. "We're under a mistletoe." None of the bots realized the predicament they were in.
Ratchet studied the glowing plant, "What is a mistletoe?" The sparkling red mist was emanating from the berries of the plant. He locked up as his cock began to throb as he had an overwhelming desire to interface. He lost his breath as he grew harder by the second. 'What is this plant doing to me?' His spark was jumping within his chest and trying to reach out for the witch in front of him.
Bulkhead shivered, "Is it getting hot in here?" He put his hand into his pocket to keep his aching cock down. Arcee and Optimus soon fell into the same situation as they grew heated. There was a powerful desire for all of them to interface with the femme in front of them.
Jacqueline was blushing and trying to speak, "We're all under a mistletoe. You can't leave once you're caught under it with a woman. If you try to leave, you'll start to bleed." She watched each of them attempt to move away.
Ratchet winced as he regretfully attempted to step back, "Alright, then how do we get unstuck? I suppose you have some spell to reverse this?"
She shook her head, "A mistletoe is a powerful magical plant. No spell can remove it. There is only one way for us to get unstuck, but you probably aren't going to like it." She covered her eyes as her cheeks turned into different shades of red. 'They've been on Earth for three years, and they've never heard of a mistletoe and what you do beneath it?'
Arcee shrugged, "What's the big deal? How do we get unstuck? I can just rip that thing right out of the wall."
Jacqueline turned back and grabbed Arcee's hand, "No! Never rip mistletoe after it has sprouted. Do you want to be carried out of here a bloody mess?" Arcee's eyes widened. She was joking, right? "You've all been on Earth for three years. Don't any of you know what happens when you're under a mistletoe with a woman? They are prevalent in Christmas stories?"
Bulkhead crossed his arms, "Uh~oh! Ya, don't you… oh… OH!" Bulkhead's cock was pulsing with need as he knew what they had to do. He didn't know if he could handle kissing such a beautiful femme and not carry her off to the closest bed. His spark was pounding and demanding to feel this femme touch his muscles.
Arcee looked irritated, "What's the big deal? What? Do I have to sing?"
Jacqueline huffed as her cheeks burned, "You have to kiss the woman that is underneath the mistletoe with you." Each of them froze and went rigid. Optimus was resisting the urge to growl in delight. Ratchet's body was heating up to dangerous levels again. Arcee was fighting the urge to pull her into a passionate kiss. Meanwhile, Bulkhead was left panting. They were blushing slightly.
Ratchet cleared his throat, "I~I um… well… is there no other option?"
"S~sadly, no. Either each of you kisses me, or we'll be stuck here until we die." She was mortified as the walls of her cunt ached. A part of her was brimming with excitement at the prospect of kissing them.
Bulkhead was stuttering, "If we~we uh… if… scrap. If we do this, how long is it for?"
"I don't really know," Jacqueline said, "Muggles think you have to give a quick kiss, but that's not how it works. I'd guess around 30 seconds or so? Once your branch on the mistletoe wilts, you are free." Her heart was quivering as if it were going to fall out of her chest.
Arcee was struggling to breathe, "That's… a long time to kiss. Is that all?" Frankly, it wasn't long enough for any of them. 'I need to get Bee.'
"For the most part, yes. Um… there… there's one small detail. You have to kiss and actually put effort into it. No mashing your lips together and waiting. The mistletoe can sense if someone isn't trying." She pointed to the glowing plant above her head. There was a horrific silence as the Autobots looked at each other. None of them knew who was going to go first. Did they choose or her?
Arcee was able to take a step forward to Jacqueline, "I guess we don't really have much of a choice." His servos were trembling as he cupped her face, "30 seconds, right?"
Jacqueline shrugged as her face turned different shades of red, "I don't really know. The plant will wilt when it's decided we're done. At least your branch." There were four branches on the mistletoe, each for the bots trapped beneath its romantic aura.
Arcee leaned down and tilted his head before softly pressing his lips against Jacqueline's. He groaned as he felt her tender lips mold against his, 'This is better than I could have imagined.' Arcee slowly closed his eyes as he pulled her closer. Meanwhile, Jacqueline was trembling as she held Arcee's face. Her heart was fluttering, and her stomach was knotting up as Arcee kissed her. The other bots were watching the two with lustful eyes. Each desiring to kiss this femme. Arcee forced down a possessive groan as he kissed his charge. The circuits beneath his skin were heating to dangerous levels as he pulled her deeper into their kiss. 'I've kissed a few femmes before, but it never felt this good.'
By no account was Arcee a virgin. Before the war, and a bit shameful on his part, he'd woken up drunk on high-grade next to a nameless femme on numerous occasions. Just thinking about those moments filled him with deep regret. Arcee never thought he'd meet a femme that would catch his attention. Before the Great War, he was a sleazy womanizer going from energon bars for one-night stands. But kissing Jacqueline had his spark bursting with desire. 'S~scrap she knows how to kiss a mech.' She was giving him a soft but passionate kiss. 'Why couldn't I have met you on Cybertron? Such a fragging minx.'
Jacqueline shivered as she pulled away and looked up, "Y~you… you are free now."
Arcee's lips were lightly brushed against her's, "You're not bad." It took all his willpower not to pull her into another kiss. He felt a burning desire to lift her against one of the book stacks and take her virginity. To feel the tightness of her cunt as he overloaded into her. Arcee pulled away and quickly left. 'Damn it! Why did Miko have to tell us she was a virgin?' Despite all his one-night stands on Cybertron, he'd never had a virgin. It was rare for a cybertronian femme to maintain their virginity, especially during their heat cycle.
"So… who's next?" Jacqueline asked as she stared at the ground.
Bulkhead quickly spoke up, "Me!" He froze and cleared his throat, "I mean, I'll go, I guess. Not like we can really avoid this even if we wanted to." Jacqueline stepped in front of him and got on her toes as she reached up to grab his face.
Jacqueline was flustered, "Bulkhead, you're gonna have to bend down." The wrecker was so overwhelmed he'd forgotten to do the basic action of reaching her level. The only other way to kiss her would be if he lifted her up.
"Hehe~sorry. I've never kissed a pretty femme before." Bulkhead placed his hands on her waist and pulled her close. Both of them closed their eyes as their lips pressed together. 'Frag~she's… thank Primus.' Bulkhead gave a deep moan as she kissed him. Without thinking, he lifted her up and held her by the waist as they kissed. Down below, his cock was throbbing, and their kissing became rougher, 'I'd give anything to interface with you right now.' He wanted to see if this human could handle a brute of a wrecker like him. 'Damn, Wheeljack, we've got one sexy sparkmate.'
Behind them, Ratchet was panting as the two continued to kiss, "Ehem!" He cleared his throat as he'd grown impatient. They had been kissing 15 seconds longer than they needed to. Jacqueline looked up and saw the branch for Bulkhead had fallen off.
"C~can you put me down now?" Jacqueline asked. A part of her wanted to wrap her arms around his neck again while straddling his midsection and continue from where they left off. 'Why does Bulkhead have to have so many muscles?' The witch shivered as her cunt ached for attention. 'This is worse than when I drank amortentia.' Jacqueline wasn't certain where these desires for the Autobots were coming from, but she wanted them to stop. 'I~I'm just frustrated, and my libido is high… nothing more.'
Bulkhead attempted to laugh off his embarrassment, "You sure? You look kinda cozy up here." He didn't want to put her down. Against his spark's desire, he set her down, "I'll leave you guys to it then." He cleared his throat and rubbed the back of his neck, "I've kissed a few femmes in the past, but I can say you're the best." With that, he left. Bulkhead grumbled as his cock throbbed painfully. 'Who am I kidding? She wouldn't want a dumb guy like me.' Nevertheless, that didn't stop the mind-numbing fantasies he had about her. Bulkhead's cheeks turned red as he ground his teeth. 'Primus, I'd give anything to have a femme like her as my sparkmate.' While Jacqueline wasn't as action-packed as Miko, she always tried to advocate his intelligence. The large wrecker leaned his arm against one of the bookcases and panted. The desire to interface was overwhelming his processor. "S~scrap… it's not even my heat cycle." His dick gave a painful throb as he envisioned overloading into her tight cunt. "I need a cold shower."
Jacqueline straightened her robes, 'I forgot they were right there.' She took a step towards Ratchet, "I'm sorry I have to put you through this."
Ratchet was struggling to speak as his spark trembled. Seeing her kiss Arcee and Bulkhead had left him aching for attention, "Yes, well… shall we?" Lifting his hands, he held her face and pulled her into a rugged kiss.
Jacqueline was unprepared for Ratchet as he kissed her with far more passion than Arcee or Bulkhead. 'I never knew Ratchet was so rough.' Ratchet pulled her body flushed against his and groaned. His arm wrapped around her waist as his lust rose by the nano-click. After years of fighting, he never thought his spark would feel such heated desires.
Ratchet cracked an eye open and saw the lustful stare his leader had, 'Soon, Optimus.' Ratchet grumbled as his hands went down to hold her waist. 'Primus was I wrong about this femme. She is the farthest thing from a child.' Before the scraplet incident, he'd come to appreciate her presence, but as the idiotic mech he was, he didn't know how to express himself. Jacqueline didn't bother him like Miko and took great strides in asking about Cybertron and its history. He sadly could not say the same.
Jacqueline barely pulled away from Ratchet before he yanked her back. She attempted to say his name, but his lips made it impossible. 'W~what is he doing? It's been 30 seconds.' Her heart, which was already strained. Jacqueline jumped as something pressed against her cunt. 'Is Ratchet… hard?' There was no mistake as she felt a bulge coming from his pants, and it pressed against her. 'He's massive!'
Ratchet abruptly pulled away and acted as if nothing had happened, "I will be waiting out front." He knew if he saw Optimus kiss this femme, the last of his resistance would fade. He was nano-seconds away from carrying her out of the store and back to their base. 'She can't leave until she kisses Optimus.'
Back with Optimus and Jacqueline, the witch was shaking, "It looks like we're right back to where we started." She'd already had Optimus kiss her neck, but now… her panties were practically soaked. Kissing the Autobots was something she'd never forget, despite how naughty it made her feel.
Optimus struggled to speak, "I suppose it is now your turn to help me." He bent down and held her face, his thumb brushing her crimson cheek. 'Primus… how can a femme be so beautiful?' His resistance snapped like a cheap lock, and he pulled Jacqueline into a tender kiss. Optimus used to believe Elita-One was the prettiest femme he's ever seen, but Jacqueline shattered that delusion. This human ensnared in his arms was unfathomably beautiful. Were she on Cybertron, there wasn't any doubt that mechs would be fighting for her attention. Optimus noticed right away that witches and wizards were far more attractive than the muggle humans they've seen. From what Jacqueline told them, wizards were by nature attractive due to them using magic. There were a few overweight wizards, but apparently, this was due to a very unhealthy diet.
Jacqueline shivered, 'He's so strong and passionate.' Pulling back a little early, she opened her mouth slightly to get some air. Optimus, however, refused to be robbed of his allotted time. Pulling her back, Jacqueline jumped, and her eyes widened when Optimus forced his tongue against hers. She was so surprised that a few books exploded off the shelf behind her. Jacqueline was trembling as Optimus greedily massaged her tongue with his own. The feeling in her heart had burst into an almost acidic sensation but in a pleasing way. 'H~he's french kissing me!?' She moaned briefly as her senses were overwhelmed. Optimus pulled her closer and held the back of her head as he lost all sense of control. Jacqueline slowly wrapped her arms around Optimus's neck as they continued to kiss. Both of them were completely enamored with one another; they didn't realize they'd been kissing for well over a minute.
When Optimus pulled back, he was left panting, and his spark was pounding. He had never lost so much control over himself… not even Elita-One stirred such powerful emotions inside his spark. "I… forgive me." Optimus pulled away as he struggled to breathe, "I do not know what came over me." For the first time, he was utterly embarrassed for how he'd acted. 'I should not have done that.' There was a brief moment where Optimus assumed she was going to shout at him or run away. But it never came.
Jacqueline cleared her throat as her cheeks maintained a red tint, "Um… I… That was… nice." Optimus froze. "W~we should go check on the others." She lifted her foot and gasped. "Ah!"
Optimus grabbed her as she attempted to step forward, "What is wrong?" He looked up at the mistletoe and saw two branches still intact. Behind Jacqueline, he watched as Wheeljack and Bumblebee approached.
"You guys, seen Bulkhead? We saw ya head in here earlier." There was a smirk on the Wrecker's face as he looked at Jacqueline.
Bumblebee was shaking in anticipation… he was going to give Arcee his entire store of high-grade energon for this. To think such an opportunity almost escaped him. "Is she alright?"
Jacqueline gave a silent cry as she slammed her head into the bookcase, "I'm going to be stuck here forever."
Optimus frowned as he saw how uncomfortable Jacqueline was, "Where are Arcee and Bulkhead?" He gave both his soldiers a severe glare.
Bumblebee pointed to the front of the shop. Optimus was clearly angry with them for what they were doing to this femme. But they couldn't help it. Their sparks were shouting at them to take her as their mate. Even Wheeljack felt his own spark acting odd. He had an overwhelming desire to kiss this femme senseless.
Optimus looked at Jacqueline, "I will make certain nobody else approaches you. I will speak with the rest of you later." Grabbing his books, Optimus regretfully left Jacqueline with Wheeljack and Bumblebee.
Jacqueline took a deep breath and turned to them, "How did you know where I was?" It was too ironic that they should appear at the last minute.
Wheeljack shrugged, "What? Can't a mech explore on his own? I told ya, we saw you and Prime come in here. I lost Bulk in the crowd."
Jacqueline looked at Wheeljack and Bumblebee with uncertainty, "Let's just get this over with."
Wheeljack raised a brow, "Get what over~" He was shocked when the human grabbed his face and pulled him into a passionate kiss. Wheeljack was cheering inside his processor… he loved when a femme jumped straight into the action. He pulled back and smirked, "I didn't know ya felt so strongly about me~hehe~But I ain't complaining." He held the sides of her face and pulled her into a rough kiss. Wheeljack groaned as he felt the femme's lips mold against his, 'This femme is a fraggin' keeper.' When they pulled back, Wheeljack chuckled, "Not bad, kid. You got dessert with that?" He laughed at her flustered expression.
Jacqueline grabbed his shirt and pushed him away, "Just go." Her heart couldn't take much more of this. All she wanted to do was hide in a corner and keep her face shielded from the world. 'I'll never be able to look at any of them the same.'
Bumblebee rubbed the back of his head. He looked flustered, "W~what was that about?"
Jacqueline was able to take a step towards Bumblebee, "If I find out Arcee told you what was happening in here, I'm going to kill him." She couldn't figure out if this was a coincidence or perhaps some foul play. Jacqueline stood on her toes as she grabbed Bumblebee's face, "I can't believe I'm in this situation." Unlike with Wheeljack, who she knew would tease her, she gently pulled Bumblebee into an inviting kiss. Bumblebee jumped as Jacqueline kissed him. The scout's eyes rolled back as he embraced the feeling. Sniffing the air, Bumblebee's optics turned a brighter shade of blue. He could smell how heated this femme was… if he weren't being kissed, he'd be a panting mess. Why must Primus curse him with such superior senses?
Bumblebee groaned when her hand rested against his bicep. He'd decided to wear a tank top after the lobbing match at the base. The scout wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her into a deeper kiss. Bumblebee was trembling as their kissing soon became intense. When they finally pulled away, Jacqueline was left shaking. "T~that was… mhm… wow."
Jacqueline took several deep breaths, "Do not ever tell Miko or Raf what we just did. I don't need them teasing me." Not wanting to be trapped another second, she quickly exited the shop and saw the Autobots standing out front. Ratchet and Bulkhead were leaning against the wall with massive blushes. As for Arcee, he was smirking. "Nobody says a word," Jacqueline said with an enormous blush splashed across her cheeks.
Arcee raised a brow, "Are you sure about that? You look kinda cute when you're flustered." Jacqueline snapped her fingers, and the metal bench he was sitting on rolled back. "I'm not stupid. I know you sent Bumblebee in there." Though from the way Bumblebee was acting, she doubted Arcee told him the full story.
The Autobots were looking away as Optimus, who was leaning against the window, glared at them. As cybertronians, they knew better than to take advantage of a femme. But nevertheless, it was a slip in their desires that would never happen again. Optimus made it clear that all of them would be having a long conversation at the base.
(Later)
Miko looked at the menu in her hands, "I'll take the fille, medium rare, please. Could I also get three shots of giggle water?" Letting go of the menu, it floated away from her. With some convincing on her and Jacqueline's part, they'd gotten the Autobots to enter the Three Broomsticks. It was owned by the Rosmerta Family.
Arcee looked at his menu and was slightly overwhelmed, "I don't know what any of this stuff is. What's pea soup?"
Raf, who was across the table, shook his head, "Don't get that. If you don't eat it fast enough, it'll eat you. My Dad ordered that, and it bit his hand." Arcee was startled to hear this. Raf turned to the floating sketch pad and quill pen, "I'll have a roasted hog with exploding lemonade."
Ratchet, who was seated next to Raf, looked down, "Exploding lemonade? I don't think so! It clearly states here the drink is dangerous to your health."
Raf rubbed the back of his head, "You're probably right… it's just so good. I'll have butterbeer, I guess."
Bumblebee crossed his arms, "Aren't you a little young to have beer?"
Miko rolled her eyes, "Guys, get off his back. It's butterbeer. Kids have it all the time. It's not like he's drinking fire whisky or devil's brew."
Bulkhead looked at his own menu, "Uh~I guess I'll have the rack of ribs. I've always heard from you humans that it tasted good." The Autobots were very nervous about what they should order. They'd never had human food, but they couldn't deny the smell from within the pub had their mouths watering. Even Ultra Magnus had his stomach rumble for this supposed human food.
Jacqueline, who was seated between Bulkhead and Optimus, leaned over, "Good choice. You'll love ribs. For a beverage that you'll like, I recommend firewhisky. I know you'll like something strong."
Bulkhead had a massive smile on his face, "Sounds good to me."
Optimus listened as the others ordered their food, and there were fascinating choices. Jacqueline leaned over and whispered to the mech, who was clearly uncertain about what he should order, "I think you'll like dragon steak. It's very tender, and frankly, I'm surprised they still have any meat leftover. Every time I come here, it's out of stock."
Optimus glanced at the floating sketch pad, "I will have the Ukrainian dragon's steak."
Jacqueline blushed and tried to avoid eye contact with Optimus, the events from before still played in her mind. "I'll leave the drink up to you. Just don't get Devil's Brew. It will light your mouth on fire."
Skimming the beverages, Optimus noticed one that caught his eye, "For a beverage, I suppose I'll have butterbeer." He looked at Jacqueline and gave a small smile, "From how you have described it, I am curious if it tastes as good as it sounds."
Wheeljack looked at his menu with a massive grin, "Give me the strongest and hardest alcoholic drink you've got."
Miko waved her hand, "Bye, Wheeljack, it's been nice knowing you."
Arcee was laughing a little, "Is it that bad?"
A paper flew towards their table and landed in front of Wheeljack. The quill pen floated to his hand. Wheeljack was confused as they studied the quill, "What am I signing for now?"
Raf was the one who spoke up, "My Dad signed that once. It's a magical contract that doesn't hold the pub responsible in case you die or are seriously hurt." The Autobots were shocked to hear this, but Wheeljack wasted no time in signing his name.
"I've only got one life. If you humans have a drink that requires me to sign a contract, it better be good." Wheeljack said with a grin.
Miko shook her head, "You're an idiot." Even she wasn't dumb enough to drink Merlin's brew. She agreed that one should live their life to the fullest, but she wanted to actually live her life.
Jacqueline leaned over to look at Wheeljack, "Are you sure you want to do this, Wheeljack? Merlin's Brew is the strongest alcoholic drink in the world."
Wheeljack laughed, "Now I'm dying to try it. Of all the rocks in the universe to land on, this one is the best." He'd only been on Earth for a few hours, and already he liked the planet and its inhabitants. He wasn't leaving any time soon. He liked these three humans. They seemed to know how to have a great time.
Ultra Magnus glared at Wheeljack, "Soldier, you should not willingly put yourself into distress if these femmes are warning you." As usual, Wheeljack ignored him. Ultra Magnus sighed and looked around the pub. Since their group was so large, they were given a private table on the second level. Despite the establishment's somewhat rustic appearance, Ultra Magnus surprisingly savored the atmosphere. There was music playing from the band down below that didn't hurt his ears, the lighting wasn't too bright, and he was… cozy. When was the last time he'd felt such simple comfort?
Bumblebee covered his nose, "Does human food normally smell this good?" His stomach gave a loud growl as it demanded substance for his organic half.
Miko glanced at Bumblebee, "Man, you must have a good nose if you can smell the food from up here."
Ratchet scoffed, "Of course he has a good nose. He's an energon scout." He stated as if it were obvious.
"Oh~well excuse me for not knowing. Tell me, Doc-bot, if you're so smart, then do you know what happens when witches drink alcohol?"
Ratchet raised an eyebrow, "You will become intoxicated."
"Wrong," Miko said with a smirk, "Wanna try again?"
Bulkhead rubbed the back of his head, "Are you saying witches can't get drunk? Man, that sounds nice." Jacqueline shrunk in her seat and wanted to avoid joining this conversation. Especially since she'd kissed most of the men sitting at the table.
"Well, we do get drunk," Miko said, "But that's beside the point. Witches don't drink alcohol too much because it's like an aphrodisiac for us. Why do you think I just got giggle water?"
Ratchet's cheeks started to heat up, "H~how is that possible?"
Miko shrugged, "Beats me, I don't know wizard biology. Ask Jacqueline or Raf. They might know. All I know is to never drink a bunch of alcohol." Everyone looked at the other two wizards for an answer, and it was Jacqueline who was forced to speak up.
"Alcohol acts as an aphrodisiac for witches because of how it is processed by our magic. If we have alcohol, it's in small amounts like what Miko is having." She was flustered as she spoke.
Wheeljack leaned forward and had a naughty idea, "So, what if you have what I'm about to drink?"
"If I had Merlin's Brew?" Jacqueline's cheeks were neon red, "I'd… I'd rather not say." She knew just a single sip of Merlin's Brew would have her clinging to one of the Autobots and practically be begging for release.
Arcee shivered at the thought of what would happen to Jacqueline. 'She'd probably be a broken mess.'
Bumblebee growled as he smelled Jacqueline's scent. Her scent was growing stronger by the second, and it made his mouth water. 'Ugh~that scent of hers.' He was just grateful it wasn't her ovulation cycle… yet. Bumblebee had to lock himself in his quarters when Jacqueline came to their base just a few weeks after they'd met. The fragrance of her fertility had his spike aching. Unbeknownst to Bumblebee, the rest of the Autobots had been able to smell Jacqueline's fertility during her ovulation period. Ratchet had to take at least a dozen cold showers to calm himself down. Optimus would force himself into recharge. As for Bulkhead and Arcee, neither of them were strong enough to resist her scent.
(Flashback) *Warning Mature Content* *Skip to page break if you do not wish to read*
Arcee lay spread out across his bed as his cock trembled in his hand. "Ratchet never said humans had scents like this! D~damn it!" From the moment he picked her up, he'd caught a whiff of her scent and was left broken. Were she his sparkmate, he would've torn their clothing to shreds and taken her the moment he caught her scent. Burying his face into his pillow, Arcee growled as he stroked himself even faster, "S~scrap, I'm… I can't hold it!" The Autobot scout shouted in ecstasy as he overloaded and protofluid shot across his chest. Arcee clenched his teeth as his cock continued to throb, 'Primus, kill me now. Why have you cursed me with this femme?' It took nearly four overloads before Arcee passed out from exhaustion. His dreams were plagued by Jacqueline sleeping in his bed as he ran his hands over her.
Bulkhead was taking a shower a few rooms over, and the entire washroom was filled with steam. The Wrecker shivered as the freezing water converted to steam when it hit him. "Ugh~Maybe Ratchet has something to help cool my servos." Resting his head against his arm, he grumbled as he slowly wrapped his hand around his pulsing member. His spark was shouting for him to interface with Jacqueline and unload torrents of protofluid into her fertile cunt. Bulkhead trembled as he envisioned her trapped in front of him. The tiny femme kissing his chest and playing with his muscles. He slowly started thrusting into his hand and imagined the feeling of her cunt, 'I bet a femme like her is tight… so fragging tight and warm. Is she a virgin? No! Don't think about that. Anything but that.' It was too late as he thought of being the first mech to break into such a tiny femme and hear her shouts of ecstasy. Bulkhead threw his head back and yelled as hot protofluid shot out of his thick cock.
As he watched his protofluid wash away, he took a whiff of that air and groaned in delight. Across the base, the dark energon that was locked away glowed brightly. Bulkhead licked his lips as there was an unimaginable thirst for this profound odor of dark energon. For a brief moment, his eyes had a purple flicker. Bulkhead dug his hand into the wall as another wave of protofluid shot out. He wanted to see Jacqueline struggling to stand as his protofluid dipped out of her fertile cunt. He gave a husky laugh as his mind went foggy, "Arcee doesn't know how good he's got it." Miko was a close friend, but he desired her friend.
The small amount of dark energon inside the glass container was glowing, and a purple mist could be seen rising out of it. The fumes seeped from the seal and advanced towards the vent situated above it.
Bulkhead sighed as he continued to wash his overly large body. The shower was still blasting cold water and continued to turn into steam as it hit the Cybertronian. Bulkhead was busy cleaning his body; he didn't see the trace amount of purple fumes flood out of the vent over his head. He growled lightly as the purple mist fell over him and made his skin burn up. "Frag me… I'd give anything to take that femme." Taking a deep breath, he grumbled as dark waves of energy rushed down his spine. He didn't know what this powerful sensation was, but he wanted more. Leaning his head back, Bulkhead grumbled as his cock pulsed again.
Arcee spammed in his bed as a purple mist ran across his nose. "She's my charge. Optimus assigned her to me, no one else." He grumbled as his body became drenched in sweat. He laid flat atop his bed with his body fully exposed to the cold air. Despite the freezing temperatures of his room, he was burning up as he inhaled. "I haven't felt like this since I touched that dark energon."
Arcee tried to not think about it, but he had a silent craving to taste the dark energon that Ratchet was studying. He shivered as his body was greeted with dark waves of energy. His spike gave a pleasant throb as dark visions flooded his processor. 'I shouldn't be thinking like this.' He kept trying to tell himself that dark energon was terrible, but each time he thought like that, the pleasure he felt went away. 'J~just this once. I'll indulge myself. Just this once.' Closing his eyes, the scout slowly embraced this corrupt fantasy of consuming dark energon.
Grabbing his cock, Arcee moaned as he recalled the feeling of dark energon on his skin. He blindly licked his lips as the purple mist continued to flood out of the vent over his bed. 'I just need one taste. How can something so bad smell so fragging good?' A vision of him consuming a cube of dark energon became more and more appealing. As Arcee blindly stroked himself, purple static ran across his fingers and his pulsing dick. "Y~yes!" He shouted. His eyes rolled back as he overloaded again, but this time he had dark waves of energy washing down his spine. A part of him enjoyed these forbidden thoughts and urges. Clenching his teeth, steam escaped the sides of his mouth as he envisioned his charge sharing his bed. Arcee growled as he thought of seeing Jacqueline's valve coated with his protofluid. His optics briefly took on a purple glow before turning blue.
*safe to read again*
(Present)
Bulkhead shivered as he recalled that day. He'd never overloaded to the point of passing out. And he couldn't get that lingering smell out of his nose. The lovable wrecker felt his cheeks burn when he remembered his forbidden fantasy. 'I'm so fragged.' He's never wanted a femme as badly as Jacqueline. How he hasn't scared her off with his clumsiness or wrecker attitude was nothing short of a miracle.
As the Autobots talked amongst themselves and took in the atmosphere of the pub, they were startled when their food magically appeared before them. Their empty glasses quickly filled up with their drinks and stopped when they reached the top. Optimus and Ratchet looked at the butterbeer as the foam fell down the side but never leaked onto the table. Magical sparks were jumping off the foam.
Raf smiled as he sat up, "What do you think, Bumblebee? Good, right?" He was brimming with excitement at his friend's reaction to human food.
Bumblebee was the first mech to take a bit of his food. He'd gotten the same meal as Raf. Taking a bite of the roasted hog, he groaned as flavors he'd never tasted before ravaged his tongue. "I've never been so wrong in my life. Human food is amazing!"
Ratchet cautiously took a bite from his steak and his face contorted. "By the Allspark." He tried to suppress a pleasant groan as the flavors from the steak made his mouth water. "This is far better than I thought."
Bulkhead and Wheeljack both ordered a rack of ribs, and within the first bite, the two wreckers were devouring their meal. Bulkhead groaned as he ate the meat, "Why didn't anyone tell me human food tasted this good!?" He felt robbed to know he'd lived his life without tasting such flavors. Wheeljack was groaning as he savored the smoky flavor. Earth was quickly becoming his new favorite place. You could never get something this delicious on Cybertron.
Jacqueline glanced at Optimus and watched as he cautiously took a bite of his steak. She smirked when his eyes widened, and a smile slowly etched its way onto his face, "How do you like it, Optimus?"
He glanced at her and nodded, "I have never tasted such flavors before. I cannot even describe it, but I must confess that humans are clearly masters of creating delicious substance." The organic half of his body felt as though it had been deprived of proper nutrition all his life as he ate his meal.
Arcee drank the butterbeer from his glass and smirked, "That's better than my high-grade energon." He glanced at Miko as she slid over a shot glass, "What's this?"
Miko shrugged, "Just try it." Behind her back, she had her phone switched on.
Lifting the glass, he studied the liquid before drinking it. Arcee's insides rumbled before he gave an audible laugh. His eyes widened as he realized everyone was watching him, "Did you just take a picture of me?" His cheeks were turning red as Miko played with her phone.
"Maybe." She snickered with an evil gleam in her eyes. 'I love giggle water.'
Ultra Magnus was the last mech to try his food, but as he took a bite of this so-called chicken, he couldn't stop himself from smiling. "Fascinating. I was clearly wrong about this species. You obviously know how to produce satisfying forms of energy." His stomach was growling in delight as he consumed his meal.
Wheeljack looked at the beer glass in front of him as red sparks jumped off the foam. "Let's see if you humans make as good of drinks as you do ribs." Grabbing the glass, he took a swig of the beer and placed it down. Within seconds, Wheeljack was swaying as his vision became distorted, "Hehe… ya, I'm never leaving this place." High-grade energon had gotten Wheeljack drunk before but never like this. The drink alone tasted better than the finest grade of energon.
Miko took a sip of her giggle water, "Did you finish your drink? No way! You're still standing after drinking that?"
Wheeljack drunkenly nodded, "it… takes~more to than-drink… to make wrecker… wrecker~uh~drunk. Hehe~got more?" He spoke in fragmented sentences.
Bulkhead chuckled as his buddy continued to eat. "Dang, Jackie, I don't think I've seen you this drunk before." He turned to Jacqueline and smiled, "I think you just won my buddy's spark by bringing him here."
Jacqueline giggled as she drank her enchanted rose water. The pink petals were jumping out of the glass. "I'm glad he's enjoying himself. Though he might have a killer hangover in the morning. No amount of magic is going to stop that."
Wheeljack threw his arm over Bulkhead's shoulder, "Hehe~worth it, pretty femme." Perhaps it was the drink, but Wheeljack was shaking as he looked Jacqueline over. "Anyone ever tell ya, you're fraggin' hot? Cuz~you make Iacon femme look like femme from Tarn."
Jacqueline blushed; meanwhile, Miko choked on her food. "Um… no, not that I remember. Thanks for the compliment, I guess." She'd been complimented on her appearance before, but never in such an abrupt manner. 'I make Iacon femme look like femme from Tarn?' Jacqueline didn't know if that was good or bad.
Wheeljack winked and gave her a delightful grin, "Naw, c'mon don't go lyin' to me. You're like… Frag, can I even put you on a scale? You beat all the femme I've met. I've been all over Cybertron, and you're off the scale." In fact, most of the witches he saw in the alley were jaw-dropping to look at. However, Jacqueline was the first femme who'd made him nearly trip over his own feet.
Jacqueline was blushing as Miko tried not to laugh, "Oh… uh… thank you. That's very sweet of you to say." Her blush was growing more profound by the second.
"Just saying it how it is, Hot Stuff." If the sparkling weren't at the table, he'd ask her if she'd want to find the closest bed and interface.
Ultra Magnus glared at Wheeljack, "Soldier, stop teasing the femme."
Wheeljack gave a hiccup as he swayed, "Aw~you're just jealous 'cause I'm getting all the attention." He soon started speaking in cybertronian, and the humans were confused.
The atmosphere at the table turned deathly silent. The Autobots were all staring at the drunken wrecker, and Ratchet nearly dropped his fork. Meanwhile, Bulkhead gave a nervous laugh as he spoke his native language, "Wheeljack, maybe you should lay off that stuff for a bit."
Wheeljack looked at his friend, "What? She's fragging beautiful. If it weren't for the kid here, I'd ask her to interface right now. Bulk, you wanna join? Hehe~I think she'll like two wreckers like us." Wheeljack wasn't a creep like Makeshift. If he wanted a femme, he wouldn't beat around the bush.
Ratchet leaned over and spoke in a series of strange vowels and clicks, "Quiet, you idiot!" Though Ratchet wouldn't deny the idea of interfacing with a femme like Jacqueline has his servos locking up. His spark was still left shaking from their encounter in the bookstore.
The tension eventually died down as the Autobots and humans ate their food. Once they were finished, Bulkhead leaned against his seat as he patted his stomach, "I take back everything I've said about human food. I wish the other wreckers were here to have this." He looked over towards Jacqueline, "I'm not gonna have to worry about gettin' all that weight you humans have, right?"
Jacqueline wiped the side of her mouth with a napkin as she spoke, "Doubtful. As long as you have food prepared by wizards and not muggles. Wizards prepare food without preservatives and unnecessary fats. I kid you not, my mother would kill me if I ever got someone addicted to an unhealthy diet. She's more of a health nut than I am."
Arcee leaned past Optimus, "I guess you're gonna have to start cooking for us." He said with a smirk.
Jacqueline laughed a little, "I think Miko is better at cooking food with magic than I am. I'm better at things like alchemy and charms." Getting up from the table, she left with Miko to go pay for their food.
Just as Ratchet and Bumblebee got up from the table, they glanced over at two other men who were sneering at Jacqueline and Miko. "This place must really be going downhill if they're going to allow a mudblood like Darby into this place." One of the men said.
Ratchet's shoulders locked up as he glared at the man, 'What did he just say?' Bumblebee had daggers shooting out from his eyes.
Soon Arcee and Optimus walked over towards Ratchet as they saw his face go red. "Ratchet, are you alright?" Optimus asked as he placed a hand on his friend's shoulder. He was glaring at two men seated a few feet away from their table.
"What's going on over here?" Bulkhead asked with a smile.
"Forget the filthy mudblood." One of the wizards said with a sneer, "I can't believe we have a disgusting blood traitor in our midsts. To think a Nakadai of all wizards would betray her own kind and allow herself to be around that mudblood Darby."
Raf was still seated at the table and watched as the Autobots glared at the wizards, 'Uh~oh.' He got up and attempted to pull Bumblebee's hand, "H~hey, Bee, maybe we should go."
Arcee marched forward and slammed his hand down on their table, "If you've got something to say about my charge, don't say it behind her back!"
The wizard with black hair sneered at Arcee, "And who do you think you are? Wait, don't tell me, you're here with that filthy mudblood, aren't you?"
Bulkhead stomped forward, and the two wizards were overwhelmed by the size of the wrecker, "Call her a mudblood again and see what happens, buddy! Don't even think about callin' Miko some blood traitor again, either."
The sickly-looking wizard sitting across from his friend sneered, "And who are you? A disgraceful half-blood, no doubt."
Bulkhead grabbed the man by his shirt and lifted him up, "Wanna dance, pretty boy?"
"Whoa!" Jacqueline came rushing over and pulled Bulkhead and Arcee away, "What are you guys doing?! Put him down, now!"
Arcee had a sneer stretched across his face, "Why should he? This guy called you a mudblood!"
Jacqueline looked back and saw that none of the other Autobots were stepping in to stop them. Not even Optimus. They all had sneers across their faces. "Put him down." She said firmly.
Bulkhead growled as he lowered the wizard who was seething. "You no good, filthy mudblood!" The wizard turned his anger onto Jacqueline, "Why my father would ever hire you is beyond me. Then you have the nerve to bring these half-bloods into this~" The wizard never finished his sentence as Bulkhead punched him square in the face. He went crashing into the table and rolled over onto the ground, completely unconscious as blood poured out of his broken nose.
Arcee saw the other wizard reach for his wand, and he quickly snatched it away. Jacqueline and Raf watched with horrified expressions as Arcee snapped his wand in half before throwing it to the ground. "Next time, it's your neck," Arcee said with a sneer.
"You… you broke my wand." The wizard said as his eye started to twitch. Lifting his hand, red sparks were jumping from his fingertips. A white bolt hit his back before he could cast the spell, and he fell to the ground completely frozen.
Miko whistled innocently as she twirled her wand, "We ready to go?"
Raf, Miko, and Jacqueline were quick to force the Autobots out of the building. Jacqueline had her face covered as she attempted to process what happened, "Arcee, do you have any idea what you just did?"
Arcee crossed his arms and had a resting glare on his face, "Ya, I broke that fraghead's wand."
"Exactly!" She shouted, "You never break a wizard's wand. It's unforgivable. And the rest of you!" Jacqueline turned her attention to the other Autobots. "Why didn't any of you stop them?"
Ratchet looked furious, "He called you a mudblood."
"Not to mention, Miko a blood traitor." Bulkhead tackled on.
Jacqueline rubbed her temple as she attempted to calm down. Though a part of her was touched that they stood up for her… nobody has ever stood up for her after she'd been called a mudblood. "Guys, I know you were just trying to stand up for me, but you can't get upset if someone starts calling me a mudblood."
"Then what?! We're supposed to just walk away?!" Arcee shouted.
"Arcee, stand down," Optimus said as he approached the two angry Autobots. Though he wouldn't deny he was also reasonably irritated. His energon was boiling before Jacqueline came back. Hearing how those wizards spoke so crudely about Jacqueline because of her supposed blood status made him just as enraged as Arcee.
"You should've let me lay into those guys," Bulkhead said. He didn't know what came over him, but as soon as the wizard lashed out at Jacqueline, he couldn't stop himself. "He's lucky I wasn't using my full strength." That was the same amount of strength he used when punching Wheeljack in the shoulder.
Raf looked up at Bumblebee as he listened to Arcee and Bulkhead shout. They were furious Jacqueline wanted them to leave it alone, "Are you alright, Bee?"
Bumblebee glanced down at his charge, "No." He said firmly, "Why isn't she upset?" He asked while gazing at Jacqueline. She was unsuccessfully trying to calm Bulkhead and Arcee down.
"It's not that she's not upset, it's just… uh… Jacqueline is kind of used to being called you-know-what." His father would shout at him if he ever called Jacqueline a mudblood.
"Well, she shouldn't be." He lashed out but quickly regained his composure, "Uh~sorry. I didn't mean to lash at you."
Raf fixed his vest, "No, I understand. I feel the same way at times, but there's nothing I can really do, you know?" He motioned to his small height and age.
(Two Hours Later)
After getting back to the Autobot Outpost, the atmosphere was unnaturally thick. The Autobots were clearly upset about what happened at the pub, despite all the fun they had. Though Jacqueline was having a pleasant conversation with Ratchet as she explained her love of alchemy to the Autobot medic. "I think you'll appreciate alchemy, Ratchet. It's one of my favorite subjects."
Ratchet had his thumb and finger under his chin as he walked beside Jacqueline, "What exactly is the goal of alchemy? Normally, I would find the idea of magical transmutation to be foolish, but that was before… well obviously." He motioned his hand to her.
"No, I understand. There is a bit of science in alchemy, but don't be confused. It's still magic. Though to answer your question. The crowning goal, in all of alchemy, is to create the panacea." Jacqueline explained with enthusiasm. "Though just creating the philosopher's stone is a more achievable goal to most alchemists."
Ratchet raised his eyebrow, "I'm unfamiliar with either of these objects. I'm assuming they're important to wizards?"
"Are you kidding?" Jacqueline asked with a shocked expression. "I would've thought you of all people would've at least heard about the philosopher's stone. You see, the philosopher's stone is a legendary substance with unparalleled power. It allows you to transform any metal into pure gold, or silver; however, its main use is to create the elixir of life, which will make the drinker immortal."
Ratchet shook his head as he attempted to comprehend the idea of immortality, "Are you saying humans have achieved immortality?!"
Jacqueline nodded, "Actually, the only philosopher's stone, in existence, was created by Nicolas Flamel, a wizard from France." Optimus was listening to her conversation with Ratchet, "Just last year, he celebrated his 695th birthday."
"What!?" Ratchet shouted with widened eyes. He'd gained everyone's attention. "You're telling me this human has lived for 695 years!?" The average cybertronian lifespan was around 200 or less.
Bulkhead whistled, "Whose lived for 695 years?" He asked as he joined the conversation a bit late.
"Nicolas Flamel," Jacqueline stated. "You do know the oldest wizard alive to this day is Barry Winkle."
"How old is he?" Arcee asked with a bit of caution. He was shocked to hear that anyone could live past 250 years.
"He's around 805 years old, give or take," Jacqueline said.
Ultra Magnus looked over at Jacqueline with a shocked expression, "Do all wizards live such long life cycles?"
Miko, who was beside Ultra Magnus, spoke up, "Nah, an average wizard's life is like 200~ish years. My father just turned 301 last month. He really needs to croak already."
Raf smiled as he spoke up, "My Dad is 89, but he looks pretty young."
Ratchet studied Jacqueline, "Do you know how long you will live?"
Jacqueline shrugged, "There are tests wizards take that measure the amount of magic in our blood. Wizards don't age until we're really~really old. From what I remember about my blood test, I'm expected to live for around 400~ish years. But that is just an estimate."
"Mine is 300." Miko said with a smile, "But I'm not complaining. I get to look like this for most of my life." The Autobots were obviously shocked to hear how long these humans were expected to live. This was double a Cybertronian's lifespan.
Bumblebee cleared his throat but was finding it difficult to breathe as he spoke to Jacqueline, "S~so, this is how you're going to look for the rest of your life?" Even Cybertronians weren't immune to aging.
Jacqueline nodded, "Sadly."
"Sadly!?" Bulkhead shouted, "That's fragging awesome! I wish I could stay in my prime for most of my life."
Jacqueline shook her head, "Bulkhead, wizards aren't allowed to stay in a muggle populated city for more than 20 years. People will eventually realize we aren't aging; so, we'll have to either move away, fake our death, or obliviate the muggles we were close to."
Bulkhead frowned, "Oh… right. I wasn't really thinking about that." He shivered at the idea of having an ageless femme sleeping in his bed. What Cybertronian wouldn't want a femme who remained beautiful for the majority of her life?
Wheeljack leaned next to Bulkhead and was smirking as he whispered, "A femme that doesn't age? Talk about the perfect sparkmate." He said while looking directly at Jacqueline. Despite only knowing her for a few hours, Wheeljack found it impossible to look anywhere else. He'd seen plenty of beautiful femmes, but he personally couldn't compare Jacqueline to the rest. This witch was unnaturally beautiful. She had curves in all the right places, and he wanted to explore them. Wheeljack grinned as his spike stirred to life and began to throb; he was still a little drunk, 'Bulk and I are gonna know every inch of your body, hot stuff.' However, he refused to make any advances or flirtatious comments because of the sparkling in the room.
Optimus cleared his throat, "I believe it is time we allowed you three to return home. Tonight has been rather eventful."
Miko was smiling, "Tell me about it. I'm gonna head in for the night… uh… no offense, Bulk, but I think I'm gonna head out on my own. I'm not really in the mood for a 45-minute drive back to Jasper… see ya!" Lifting her wand, Miko disapparated. It was going to take the Autobots a while to get used to this form of teleportation.
Jacqueline covered her face, "She's going to be doing that a lot."
Raf yawned, "I should probably be getting home too. My parents don't want me out too late."
Jacqueline quickly put her hand on Raf's back, "W~why don't you let me take you home. I think Bumblebee has had a rather tiring night." She also didn't want to be stuck around the Autobots after Raf left.
"Sure, just let me grab my bag. I left it in the hallway." Jacqueline went pale as Raf ran off to retrieve his bag. This left her alone with the Autobots.
Arcee was sitting on the arm of the couch, "Something wrong?"
Jacqueline glared at him, "Can we not talk about it." The only mech who seemed confused was Ultra Magnus. Something obviously happened, but clearly, he was being left out. Now that they were alone, she couldn't stop thinking about what transpired in the bookstore.
Arcee was laughing, "Nah. I think teasin' you is just too good. I don't see why you're so embarrassed. It's not every day we all get kissed from a good lookin' femme."
Optimus frowned as he looked at his scout, "Arcee, what happened was out of our control. Do not bother Miss Darby."
Arcee looked at Optimus with a smirk, "You're one to talk, Optimus. You two had a nice long kiss." He was slightly jealous that it wasn't him.
Jacqueline's eyes widened, "You were watching us?"
Arcee shrugged, "Ya… so? We all were. Even Ratchet was watching you two kiss like a married couple."
Ratchet was shaking his head as his face turned red, "Yep~no. Be quiet!"
Jacqueline looked mortified as she covered her face, "I'm never going to be able to live this down." She'd never be able to look at the Autobots the same.
"Enough!" Optimus said sharply. He was clearly irritated as he looked at his men. It was difficult for all of them to maintain their libido. Optimus took a deep breath as he approached Jacqueline, "I believe it would be best if you assisted Rafael in finding his belongings." Using the poor excuse, she went to find Raf.
Wheeljack, still a little drunk, gave Jacqueline a wink as she walked past him. "Still lookin' good."
Jacqueline quickly walked off as her cheeks caught fire. Wheeljack was nothing like Makeshift. The wrecker was clearly unafraid to say what he was thinking or make flirtatious remarks… and she strangely liked all the comments he made. She didn't get the same creepy vibe that she'd gotten from Makeshift.
Ratchet shivered as he fiddled with the ground bridge. Kissing Jacqueline left his body burning, 'I should have taken her for my charge when I had the chance.' Ever since he found out about her being a witch, he's regretted brushing the duty off. He reached over and grabbed the book Jacqueline had given him after they arrived at the base. 'Why did she have to wait till now to give me this?' It was a book on the fundamentals of magic, and Ratchet already knew he wasn't going to sleep tonight. Despite his calm reaction when he received the gift, he was brimming with excitement. Magic was fascinating, and he wanted to know everything there was to it.
After Jacqueline and Raf left, the Autobots soon retired and went into recharge, or so they attempted to. None of them were able to ignore the burning desire their sparks felt after kissing the human.
Arcee stared at the ceiling as he attempted to ignore the painful throbbing of his spike. "D~damn it. This femme is gonna drive me insane." He cracked his eye open and glanced at his pulsing length. Arcee buried his face back into his pillow and attempted to ignore his desires.
Across the hall, Ratchet was sitting on his pathetic excuse for a bed and reading the book Jacqueline gave him. The medic was only 20 pages in and brimming with curiosity. Magic seemed to not follow his understanding of science, but this book helps to explain it in its purest form. Ratchet turned the page and read the paragraph on spells, "Wizards have long since utilized spells through incantations, the literal enunciation of magical phrases and words. Having originated in Europe, Wands have helped wizards refine their magic and lead to the discovery of new spells and incantations." Ratchet was enamored with the book as he continued to read. He never expected humans to have such a comprehensive understanding of the universe through their usage of magic.
(One Week Later)
Jacqueline tapped her wand on the mysterious floating projector. She was teaching Raf about werewolves and wendigo. Off to the side, Ratchet and Optimus were watching with shocked expressions as Jacqueline tutored Raf.
"The word werewolf is a contraction of the anglo Saxon word 'were' meaning man and wolf, werewolf, man-wolf." Jacqueline said as she read from the book floating in front of her. "There are two primary ways to become a werewolf, which include the power of shapeshifting and being bitten by a werewolf." She tapped the projector, and it switched slides to show a man undergoing a painful transformation. "Wendigos are native monsters to the America's and the curse of the wendigo is inflicted upon those who have succumbed to cannibalism."
Raf was furiously scribbling down everything Jaqueline said. She was a demanding but proficient tutor for his classes. "Wait, is anyone susceptible to the curse of the wendigo?" Raf asked while raising his hand. Optimus and Ratchet watched the slide change to reveal a gruesome image of a creature with the skull of a deer and a grotesque body. Its mouth was drenched in blood, as were its sharp claws.
Ratchet visibly stepped back as he was unprepared for the graphic image, "That creature exists?" He whispered to Optimus.
Jacqueline looked up from the floating book, "The curse of the wendigo can be inflicted upon any living creature within the sacred grounds of native American tribes. However, the curse will only be inflicted upon anyone who willingly consumes the flesh of another human."
Miko, who was sitting on the chair next to Raf, stared at the projector, "This brings back memories. You know in Japan we learn about Kappa. They're pretty nasty creatures."
Wheeljack and Bulkhead walked up the stairs, "Man, that was exhausting. So what's going on up~Frag me! What is that!?" Bulkhead shouted as he saw the picture of the wendigo.
"Wendigo." The three humans said in unison.
Jacqueline went back to teaching Raf, "I think this is an appropriate stopping point. Tomorrow we will discuss how to properly defend against werewolves and wendigos." She snapped her finger, and the projector folded into a ball of light before disappearing. Raf looked miserable upon hearing this.
"Aw~man… I stink at defensive charms."
Jacqueline glanced at Raf and smiled as she closed the thick book on monsters, "That's why I'm here to help. From what I've seen, Raf, you're just flourishing your wand too much."
Wheeljack walked over and grabbed the floating book, "Would you look at this? What kinda book is this?" It was moving, and it looked as though it were breathing.
"Please be careful," She made a motion with her hand, "Rub the spine before it bites your fingers off."
Wheeljack glanced at the book before doing what she said. The book purred as the little stubs on its spine were messaged, "Floating projectors, finger-eating books, man, you humans just surprise me at every turn." He was smiling like mad.
"You're tellin' me," Bulkhead said as he walked over, "Hey, you wouldn't mind helping us move those energon crates, would you?" He gave a nervous laugh while rubbing the top of his head. Jacqueline and Miko, in the past week, had made their duties around the base infinitely easier.
Optimus crossed his arms and frowned, "Bulkhead, you should not be throwing your duties off onto Jacqueline or Miko."
Jacqueline laughed a little, "It's alright, Optimus. Besides, it's kind of a waste of energy and time to haul all those cubes of yours around now that we're here." Looking over the railing, she snapped her finger, and a golden light erupted from the tips. Down below, the energon crates that Bulkhead and Wheeljack had been hauling floated across the room towards the energon pipeline to be refueled.
Miko lowered her phone to look at Optimus, "Ya, big blue, we don't mind. It beats us sitting here acting like dead weights."
"See, Optimus, they don't mind," Bulkhead said as he smiled.
As the Autobots went back to their tasks, Jacqueline noticed Ratchet, who kept glancing between her and his medical equipment, 'I guess I've punished him long enough. It has been over a week.' After helping Raf with the rest of his work, she approached the Autobot medic, "Hi, Ratchet, how are your scans going?"
Ratchet turned his head, "They would be better if the ground bridge didn't keep diverting all the power from the main system. Not to mention this is the third time I've been forced to run a defragment scan."
"I'm sorry to hear that. So listen… uh…" She rubbed the back of her head, "So I know you've been really trying hard to be nice. And to be honest, it's actually kind of creepy." Seeing Ratchet act overly kind was weird and completely out of character for the medic. "What I'm saying is… would you still like to run some scans on~"
"Yes! Now, wait right here!" Ratchet immediately rushed over to grab his medical equipment. He didn't know if this day would ever come. He'd finished reading the book Jacqueline bought for him three days ago, and he still had many more questions about magic. "Now, if you'll follow me." Ratchet graciously led Jacqueline to one of the medical beds near the decontamination booth.
Jacqueline raised an eyebrow as a beam of light ran down her face, "Um~okay." Ratchet looked like a child on Christmas morning.
"Hey, what's going on over here?" Arcee asked as he walked out of the hallway.
"Yep~yep, keep your distance! I don't need you tampering with my data!" Ratchet said as he waved for Arcee to leave.
Jacqueline smirked and rolled her eyes, "I said he could run those tests he wanted." Arcee leaned against the decontamination shower and smirked. "What?"
"You sure you want Hatchet running tests on you?" Arcee asked. The scout ducked as Ratchet threw a wrench at him.
Jacqueline looked at Ratchet with wide eyes. The medic was seething, "Was that necessary?"
"I do not need him filling your mind with doubt." Ratchet growled in irritation.
"Jeez, Ratchet, I was just playin' you don't need to bust your tailpipe." Arcee responded.
Ratchet grumbled as he examined Jacqueline's arm, "I'm not familiar with your biology. So I suppose I won't be taking any blood samples." He did not understand how human veins worked or how much blood they needed.
Jacqueline rolled her eyes, "Here… hand me that rubber hose and the syringe. You're lucky my mother is a nurse and has taught me a few things growing up." Presenting her arm, Jacqueline had Ratchet wrap the hose on her upper arm. Examining her arm, Jacqueline insisted the syringe into her vein and shivered. While Ratchet didn't have a blood bag, her blood was flowing into a sterile container.
Arcee leaned close and looked at Jacqueline's blood, "Humans are weird." He shivered as her blood filled the container. "Ugh~why is it red?" When they bleed, their energon is blue.
Jacqueline glanced at Arcee as she flexed her hand, "What? Afraid of a little blood? You know, blood in wizards contains powerful magical properties. Have you ever heard of a blood oath?" After filling the container, Jacqueline shivered as she pulled the syringe out. "I hope a pint is good enough."
Ratchet nodded as he wrapped her arm, "Yes, this is more than enough." He didn't expect her to give this much blood, perhaps a few vials, but not a pint. Ratchet was also saved from the fear of taking too much blood and not realizing it. "I was unaware you understood your own biology. From a medical perspective, I mean."
"I've always had a slight fascination in the human body and medicine. Though wizards have healers instead of doctors. But my mother is a nurse and taught me a few things."
Arcee looked at the vial of blood, "So, do you consume this blood stuff?"
"Consume blood?" Jacqueline laughed, "I'm not a vampire. The human body produces it. Though I should probably start drinking some water in case I pass out."
Ratchet forced her to lay on the medical bed, which was propped up, "No passing out on my watch, young lady." Taking her blood towards the terminal, he inserted the canister into a small compartment.
As Ratchet went off trying to uncover her DNA, Jacqueline smiled as she turned to Arcee. "He looks happy."
Arcee snickered and leaned close, "Are you kidding? I've never seen him this happy before. Are you going to be alright?"
Jacqueline nodded, "It was only a pint of blood. The human body contains approximately ten pints of blood but can still work with just half. But trust me, you don't ever want to lose any more than that." She shook her head as she felt a little light.
"Whoa, careful there." Arcee forced her into the bed.
"I'm just a little light-headed. It will pass. I'm fine, I promise."
Arcee frowned, "I'll be the judge of that." For the next few minutes, he kept a cautious eye on Jacqueline.
Ratchet was glancing between the monitor and Jacqueline. "And your genetic profile is now saved to our system. Now may we continue?"
Arcee frowned at Ratchet, "I think that's enough testing for now."
Ratchet looked at Jacqueline, "I was merely going to perform a physical. Now, if you may remove your clothing, Jacqueline."
Jacqueline's face caught fire, "Whoa! Slow down, Ratchet. Taking my blood is one thing. Running your hands across me is another."
"How will I complete my diagnosis or research?" Ratchet looked over Jacqueline's body and trembled. He could only fathom what it would feel like for his rough and agile hands to crest her body.
Jacqueline gave a nervous laugh as her cheeks turned several shades of red, "I'm sorry, but the only person I'm going to allow to touch me is my boyfriend or husband." Arcee and Ratchet shivered upon hearing this. They loved hearing how faithful she was to her future sparkmates.
One thing that left Ratchet and Optimus overly heated was seeing how loving Jacqueline was to Young Raf. It was precisely how they'd foresee a femme taking care of their sparkling. Ratchet shivered as he thought about the witch beside him. Contrary to his initial thoughts on the human femme, she was knowledgeable when it came to magic. Seeing her tutor and guide Raf of her own free will is a valued trait on Cybertron.
From the upper level, Optimus was typing away into the holographic monitor. Despite his otherwise blank expression, the Prime was grinding his teeth as he listened in to the conversation between Jacqueline, Ratchet, and Arcee. 'Does Miss Darby truly value her purity to her sparkmates?' His breathing went rigid as he recalled the mark he put upon her neck.
Down below, Jacqueline scratched her neck as the skin over her vein began to itch. 'Why is my neck so itchy?' This part of her neck had been itching for the past week, and she didn't know why. 'I should take a cold shower when I get the chance.' Goosebumps ran across her body as she had a forbidden longing to have one of these mechs touch her. 'I can't believe I actually kissed them.' It still brought a powerful blush to her cheeks.
Optimus's jaw locked up as his spark demanded to hold the femme down and mark every inch of her neck. 'Primus, forgive me. I have made a grave mistake.' To mark a femme without their permission was a horrendous act on Cybertron.
Ultra Magnus was next to Optimus with a holopad in his hand, "I must confess, Optimus, these humans and not what I had expected." He couldn't believe he'd admit this to himself, but they'd made his life easier. All the manual tasks he ordered on Bulkhead and Wheeljack were now able to be completed in an instant thanks to these witches. With the two wreckers free from these physical labors, they could be sent into the field to scout for energon.
Optimus turned to Ultra Magnus and smiled, "Our human allies are very gracious to help with our tasks."
"I see Miss Darby was educating the sparkling. Is she instructed to teach Rafael?"
"Miss Darby is assisting Rafael of her own free will." Optimus explained, "She has a soft spark for sparklings from what I have witnessed." The thought flooded his processor with erotic fantasies of her carrying and teaching his own sparklings.
Ultra Magnus stopped typing on the holopad, "I see." The bulky mech felt his servos heat up. 'A femme who values the education of a sparkling? That is a very noble task.' Jacqueline was… different from the femme he knew. Not that he knew many personally. She was the only femme he'd met who had addressed him with proper respect for more than a few days. Not to mention she was more than willing to assist them with tasks around the base. They weren't even soldiers, but they still offered to help. Though Magnus could live without Miko's lack of respect.
Ultra Magnus glanced at Optimus before speaking, "I suppose Miss Darby's sparkmates are grateful to have such a respectable mate." There was a ping of jealousy in his spark.
Optimus looked at his second in command, "Miss Darby does not have a sparkmate." He watched Ultra Magnus tense up. "From what has been explained to me on human customs. Human femme only take on a single sparkmate."
"A single sparkmate?" Ultra Magnus looked confused, "How can anyone expect to keep their sparkmate safe if they only have one sparkmate?"
"It is not our place to judge humans or their mating customs." Optimus pressed firmly. Though he did share in Ultra Magnus's confusion.
(Later)
Optimus was completing the last sector scans for today, 'No such luck in finding any fresh deposits.' He pinched the bridge of his nose and suppressed a yawn. Staring at the monitor for so many hours was wearing on his optics. Ultra Magnus had left to go to sleep. If there was one vice Ultra Magnus had, it was his love for recharging.
"Are you alright, Optimus?" Jacqueline asked as she seemingly appeared from nowhere.
"I am fully functional," Optimus stated.
"Really?" She gave him a playful smirk, "Because it looks as though you were about to yawn. But I suppose that's what happens when you spend the entire day staring at a monitor. I just wanted to know if you liked that book on the History of Magic?" They'd barely spoken within the past week. And neither dared to mention their passionate kiss from before. Though the same went for the other Autobots.
"I found the book to be rather insightful into magic. I was unaware that so many events have occurred on your planet." The archivist buried deep inside of Optimus wanted to ask her millions of questions, but he did not wish to bother her.
"Oh~that's great to hear. I haven't known Ratchet as long as you, but I think it's safe to say he's never been happier." They looked over to the medic, who was smiling like a lunatic.
Optimus couldn't stop himself from giving Jacqueline a soft smile, "I have known Ratchet for a very long time. You have undoubtedly made a lasting impression on him." He'd never seen Ratchet harbor this much attention for a femme.
"Um~I also came over to ask you something… about… you know." Her cheeks started to burn, "What happened with Makeshift. I was just curious, is it normal for my neck to itch this much?" She tilted her head to reveal her neck.
Optimus suppressed a growl as he fought the desire to kiss her neck again, "There tends to be a lingering effect. It should pass." Behind his emotionless expression, Optimus was a wreck. He couldn't stop thinking about their kiss from before. It was constantly replaying in the back of his processor. 'I never knew Primus could create a femme with such unparalleled beauty.'
Jacqueline rubbed her neck as her cheeks continued to burn. She barely noticed Optimus's intense gaze, "Oh~okay. I'm sorry to have to bring that up."
"You are well within your right to ask, Jacqueline." His spark was desperately attempting to claw its way from his chest and ensnare her. Seeing her flustered was filling him with confidence… Optimus has never been able to make a femme blush.
She gave a nervous laugh and looked at the clock on the terminal, "I should be heading home. I still have to get my lesson plan ready for Raf and then finish the orders for the apothecary."
Optimus took a step forward and invaded her personal space ever so slightly, "You seem to have a powerful desire to assist Rafael with his studies. Might I ask why?"
"What do you mean, why? To help him, silly. Besides… How can I say no to such an adorable kid? I'll admit I'm a softy for children." Jacqueline was embarrassed to reveal this to Optimus.
"I see." He was struggling to breathe, "Have you considered the notion of creating your own sparkling one day?" Optimus couldn't stop staring at her midsection.
Jacqueline's face reached a new level of red, "M~me having a baby? O~oh~uh~well, that's a really big decision. But I guess one day… perhaps. But I think I should focus on finding a boyfriend before that. I'd like to know I have someone there to help me raise a child, then by myself." Glancing back at Optimus, she noticed his heated gaze, 'Is he… no~don't be stupid. Optimus would never look at me like that. Would he?' Optimus was devoid of emotion most of the time, so it was difficult to read his expressions. But that didn't mean she thought any less of him. That was just who he was, and there was nothing wrong with that. One thing Jacqueline detested was when couples tried to change their significant other. 'If you're going to be in a relationship, I think you should love someone as they are. Even their flaws. Though I guess what people call flaws, I just see as quirks.'
Optimus's will was shattered by the nano-second. He wanted to throw this femme over his shoulder and carry her to his berth. He'd give almost anything just to kiss her once more.
(Later)
Optimus was lying flat across his bed and panting as his optic glowed unnaturally. He clenched his teeth as his spike throbbed. His clothing was discarded the moment he was alone in his quarters. "By the Allspark. Why does my spark long for this femme like no other?" It was driving him insane with lust. Sitting up, Optimus continued to pant as he was drenched in sweat. "I should have seized the opportunity to designate myself as her charge." Closing his eyes, he growled and attempted to remember the feeling of her lips against his.
Resting against his berth, Optimus blindly stared at the ceiling. "It has been too long since I've asked for a femme's spark. Would she reject my spark like Elita?" He hated to think about his previous attempt at finding a sparkmate with Elita-One, but Jacqueline wasn't her.
(Elsewhere)
Agent Fowler was flipping through his mission file and frowned. "Who in their right mind approved these?" He was reading about Project Damocles. One of MECH's fanatic weapons of mass destruction. Contrary to what the Autobots and Decepticons believed about humans, their technology wasn't as rudimentary as some assumed. "245 satellites in orbit. Ugh~this is a nightmare." A single satellite could emit a powerful laser towards the Earth and vaporize nearly anything it came into contact with. Sadly, this was not the worst invention created by MECH.
Flipping through the stack of papers, Agent Fowler read some of the other atrocious ideas from Silas's mind. Before creating MECH, Silas, or Leland Bishop, was head of the United States Special Operations. The man was unsympathetic and ambitious in his designs to create a perfect world order. There were only a few projects Fowler and his men could uncover from MECH's servers, but that was before a bug wiped out their entire database. At the very least, they were able to discover some vital information on the extremists. "What is the name of Sam Hill?"
Flipping the page, William saw an anatomical diagram of a MECH soldier undergoing a lobotomy. "So they plant explosive chips in their heads. I guess that's one way to keep their loyalty." The thermal suits they wore also masked their heat signature, making them a deadly assassins in the night. 'I have to deal with aliens, wizards, and fanatic witch hunters.' Despite their ambition to control the world, MECH's primary directive was to eradicate wizardkind. Reaching the last page, William frowned as he read up on MECH's latest project. There were only trace mentions they'd been able to recover on the project, but knowing MECH, it spelled trouble.
"Project Icarus. They just have all sorts of fancy names for their little projects, don't they?"
(Kamchatka Peninsula)
Salis stood patiently over the railing as he stared at their latest creation, "I assume the procedure was a success, doctor?"
The cloaked man beside him nodded, "A gruesomely long procedure, but the results are exemplary." Nearly five years' worth of work went into this Project.
Walking down the steps, Salis stood before their latest creation and snapped his fingers in front of its face, "You awake in there?" Behind the crow-like masked, Silas heard a deep groan. "Good. Your name is Icarus, and with your help, we're going to change the world."
Icarus stood just as tall as Silas and had shifting metallic wings from his back. Like all MECH soldiers, Icarus was padded down with a black suit that covered the entirety of his body.
The doctor stood behind Icarus and meddled with the pad in his hand, "Are you wise to use this metal for his wings and armor?"
Silas studied Icarus's large metallic wings. Even the feathers appeared to be composed of metal and moved in a shifting pattern, "Sometimes you'll need to fight fire with fire. Goblin-wrought silver is such a rare commodity to come by. But I'm sure our guest will be more than willing to heed our commands and produce more." Salis looked towards the far side of the tunnel and grinned upon seeing the goblin locked inside a glass cell. Wrapped around the goblin's limbs and neck were explosive straps.
The MECH doctor fiddled with the pad in his hand, "The DINGUS is expected to be transported within the next week. Shall we put our little experiment to the test?" The doctor was delighted to let his creation wreak havoc.
Silas rubbed his chin and smirked, "Let's see if the last five years have been fruitful." Snapping his fingers again, Icarus groaned behind the mask as he stood up. The large wings on Icarus's back stretched out before lifting him up into the air.
(Author Notes)
That is all for Chapter 9. At almost 20,000 words this is probably the longest chapter I have ever written *Fingers are broken* But I felt it was worth it. We got to see the Autobot's reaction to the magical community and poor Jacqueline was forced to kiss each of the Autobots. We also see that the dark energon has been having some rather... interesting effects on the Autobots. *Naughty thoughts* I can only imagine how unbearable it must be for Megatron to have all that dark energon flowing through his servos and veins. We'll be going further into this dark energon concept... I wonder if the Autobots will be able to resist it. ( ̄︶ ̄)↗ Bulkhead seemes to enjoy the fumes a bit too much. Last but not we have MECH... which is obviously up to no good. They will be having a more prominent role in this story.
Next chapter we will hear about the DINGUS. And perhaps I'll play with Jacqueline a bit. *evil thoughts manifest*
