And Chapter 4 of the story! I really appreciate the support for the story and I hope it becomes more popular in the future. There aren't that many Transformers stories like this that are very popular. I mean stories that have humanized Transformers as the main cast, but there are some really good ones like RWBY: Prime Huntsman and Highschool ConsxDevils written by SilverXScythe66. I really hope it grows over time and more and more people start reading the story, and this story becomes as popular as those. Speaking of those two stories, has anyone heard anything from Silver, like at all? I know that we no longer get email notifications for Private Messages but surely Silver would have noticed the Private Messaging Bar filled with tons of messages if he even checks FanFiction anymore? The last time I heard anything from him in a private message was that he was going through some rough times, he had lost someone he was pretty close to and he needed some time to come to terms with what happened.
I understand everyone needs time to grieve and sometimes people aren't always the same when they lose a loved one and I respect his decision to take as much time as he needed. But after a few years, I think keeping everyone waiting with no response to anything is a little unfair. So, one thought had entered my mind, but I am not sure about following through with it. Basically, I'm considering writing my own versions of Highschool ConsxDevils and RWBY: Prime Huntsman. It would follow the exact same events and storyline, in fact, I would basically copy and paste what he wrote and continue the stories from where Silver left off. I understand that I really don't have a right to those stories as they are Silver's creations, but they're some of my all-time favorite Transformers stories and I really would like to see where he would have gone with them if he didn't stop writing. So, basically what I'm saying is, I've considered picking up both stories where Silver left off, but I want to hear what some of you guys might say about it. Do you think I should or should I just leave them alone and hope Silver comes back someday?
Moving on and to answer some questions:
Guest-Questioner: I hear you and thanks for the advice. I'll make sure to make it clear that Optimus isn't anyone's friend in the sense of besties, but rather a role model, a mentor, father figure, etc.
CT7567Rules: I'm glad you like the bracers: I actually based those weapons off of the bracers SilverxScythe66 used in RWBY: Prime Huntsman. You will definitely see weapons like the Neutron Assualt Rifle, Scatter Blaster, both Scrapmakers, and many more.
Starlord Master: I have a few favorite Decepticons and I like them for different reasons. Here are a few of my favorite cons: Bayverse Blackout because of his looks and his character in the comics, it reminds me of Dreadwing from TFP; Barricade from WFC for his sarcasm and the way he sounds in the game, TFP Soundwave and I don't think I need to say why I like him, TFP Shockwave is just awesome, and TFP Megatron because he is the Megatron we all love and he has legit reasons for starting the war.
Also, I'm considering adjusting the rating for the story for some mature moments I'm considering including into the story. Please note, there won't be any explicit sexual moments, I'm not going to be doing that, however bits will be heavily implied. There may be some parts that will be pretty graphic and other parts will be geared more to adults in the story. This isn't concrete, but something to be aware of if the story progresses in that way.
Also, small question: what do you think would make a good cover image for this story? I'm asking because I'm considering having one made because Optimus Prime is my hero.
Okay, onto the story.
*UPDATE at the end of the chapter*
Disclaimer: I own nothing: Hasbro owns Transformers and Disney owns Star Wars, who so far has only done one right thing and brought us Season 7 of The Clone Wars. They never should have bought Lucasfilms.
Transformers Prime: The Clone Wars
Chapter 4: Prime and the Council Part 1
Maridun Upper Atmosphere, Venator-class Star Destroyer "Resolute"
At the immediate moment, Optimus was currently flying up to one of the massive ships that had entered Maridun's atmosphere in a gunship, the Resolute, Anakin Skywalker's Flagship. The other two ships were named the Redeemer and the Defender. He was told by Captain Rex the ship they were currently aboard was called a L.A.A.T. gunship, which was an acronym for the Low Altitude Assault Transport. Apparently, the transport could carry about thirty troops into battle, not counting the pilot and copilot that also acted as a gunner. While it seemed somewhat dangerous, having so many transported aboard such a small ship, the number of weapons this vehicle came equipped with more than made up for that fact.
Presently, the Prime was holding onto a handle above his head with his helmet tucked under his left arm. With him were the Jedi and Clone Troopers that crash-landed with them. Lok Du
"I can't thank you enough for your help, Optimus Prime," thanked Aayla Secura once more as they neared the massive Cruiser.
"Think nothing of it, General Secura," replied Optimus with an even tone, "I know that in a similar situation, you and the others would have done the same for me."
Aayla nodded as they heard the LAAT's engine begin to power down. A sudden jerk was felt, letting them know the transport had landed inside the Venator. The side doors slid open and they saw two individuals waiting for them. One of them appeared to be a high ranking officer of some kind. This individual was wearing dark green clothing, with green pants tucked into knee-high black boots. He also wore black gloves. He appeared to be aging slightly with his brown hair having small streaks of grey in it. He also had a mustache of the same hair color, blue eyes, and caucasian skin tone.
"General Skywalker, General Secura," greeted the man.
"Admiral Yularen," greeted Anakin as he stepped forward, still holding his stomach due one of his wounds opening up again during the battle, "Glad to see you found us in one piece."
"Indeed General," replied the Admiral, "And it appears you are in slightly better health."
"Better," admitted the Jedi Knight before wincing slightly, "But not great."
"Of course," nodded Yularen as he gestured to the individual that was next to him, it appeared to be a droid of some kind, with pale green paint and white photoreceptor eyes, "I suspected as much when we spotted the remains of your ship. It is for that reason I suggest you all get to medical to have a proper evaluation for any injuries."
"Won't hear any objection from me," replied Anakin as the droid approached and gently assisted him to medical, however, he stopped for a moment to look back at his men, "Rex, Bly; make sure you and the others get patched up if you need it and get some rest: you men earned it."
"Understood, General," replied the Clone Captain as he and the other Clones went off to the retire to their bunks. As the Clones left the gunship, it was then the Admiral noticed Optimus standing just behind Aayla Secura and to her left.
"You must be the one that Captain Rex mentioned in his report," noted the Admiral, "Optimus Prime, I believe."
"Yes, I am Optimus Prime," answered the Autobot Leader as he stepped towards Yularen and extended his hand to the Admiral, "It is good to meet you."
"Likewise, Optimus," replied the Admiral as he took the hand to shake it, "I am Admiral Wullf Yularen of the Republic Navy. In preparation for your arrival, I have set aside some accommodations for you."
"Thank you, Admiral," the Prime thanked him.
"I can show you around the ship if you want a little tour before going to your room?" offered Ahsoka, stepping up, "I figured it would be a good idea to get to know the place if you're going to be here."
"I agree with Ahsoka," said Aayla stepping towards, "It's best you familiarize yourself with the ship and its basic functions."
"Very well," answered Optimus before turning to Ahsoka, "Lead the way, Ms. Tano."
"You know you don't have to be so uptight with me," pointed out the Togruta as she led Optimus away to start the tour, "Ahsoka is just fine."
"I apologize if I have made you uncomfortable," apologized the Prime.
"No, no it's okay!" placated the Jedi Padawan, "It's just I'm not used to being called that."
"Understood, but still I am sorry if I caused you any distress," spoke Optimus.
"It's fine," smiled the Togruta, "Come on, I'll show you around before we head to your quarters."
Watching the Padawan and stranger leave before disappearing down one of the many corridors of the ship, Yularen turned to Aayla.
"General, I have the Jedi Council on the line, requesting a report of your time on the planet," reported the Admiral.
"Understood," nodded Aayla, "Tell them I will be a moment, I just need time to clean myself up."
"I will inform them that you will be able to speak with them in a moment," responded the Admiral, "I'll also have a trooper lead you to your quarters."
"Thank you, Admiral," Aayla thanked him, earning a nod from Yularen before he left to go back to the command deck of the Venator. A trooper then approached her.
"This way, General," requested the Clone Trooper before leading Aayla to her own quarters to freshen up, before her meeting with the Council. She knew she had so much to inform them of. Most of which, involving Optimus Prime.
Turning around one of the corners, questions swept through her mind about Optimus Prime and what she learned from observing him and interacting with him. For starters, she could immediately tell he was a very talented leader and took command so fast, despite only just meeting. It was odd, considering that Clones wouldn't follow the orders of any random individual, but after interacting with Optimus, they seemed willing to listen to what he has to say, trusting his judgment and decisions.
During the battle with the Separatist droids, Optimus led the charge against the droids. Despite the massive firefight, Aayla could see that Prime knew exactly how to position himself in the battle. Granted, he did say he served in a war and in this Autobot faction, but as what exactly? The Jedi Master's first thought was to believe he was some high ranking officer in this war, but it seemed more than that; like he was more than just a leader in his people's civil war.
"You are an interesting one, Optimus," said Aayla to herself as she and the clone arrived at her temporary quarters.
"I'm sorry, General?" asked the trooper, confused if she was speaking to him or not.
"It is nothing, trooper," she assured him as the door slid open, "Thank you for your help."
"No problem, General," replied the trooper before leaving to fulfill some other duties. Once the trooper left, Aayla turned to her temporary room aboard the Venator and she stepped in.
The quarters were much nicer than that of what the Troopers would be placed in, having her own bed, desk, a computer connected to the holonet, and her own private bathroom. Her first action was to place her lightsaber down on the desk and head to the bathroom, first removing the bands from her lekku and placing it on her bed before entering the bathroom. Taking hold of her top with both hands, she slipped the tank top with one left sleeve off as the door shut behind her.
Temporary Quarters, Venator-class Star Destroyer "Resolute"
"And that's everything about the ship," said Ahsoka as she finished her tour of the Venator for Optimus. The tour had gone pretty well and Prime had learned quite a lot about the ship. For one, this type of ship is referred to as a Venator-Class Star Destroyer. He also learned some statistics of the ship such as its length, width, and height; 3,730 feet for the length, 1,798 feet for the width, and 879 feet tall. He was told by Ahsoka that this was the main battleship of the Republic Navy, however, internally, Optimus felt this ship was more suited as a carrier than a frontline battleship.
While in the hanger, he could tell that its size was primarily this way because of its massive hanger. He also learned of the weapons that this ship was armed and found that for a vessel this large, it was somewhat under-armed. While he had no doubt that ships of this class have seen some incredible victories, it was likely at great cost as well.
"You got any questions, Optimus?" asked Ahsoka as she and Prime arrived at his temporary quarters. During their tour, they had been informed of where Optimus's room was located and made their way to it once the tour was over.
"No, I believe that is all for now, Ahsoka," replied the Autobot leader, "Thank you for your guidance aboard this vessel."
"No problem, Optimus," answered the Padawan with a smile, "I was planning to get myself showered and then heading to the mess for something to eat, would you like to come?"
"Thank you for the offer, Ahsoka," thanked Optimus, "But for now, I'd like to have some time to rest and to myself. I require some time to settle."
"Well, if you change your mind, you know where to find the mess hall," replied the Torgruta as she headed off to her own quarters. Watching her leave for a moment, Optimus turned towards his own quarters and watched as the door slid open and stepped into the room. Like Aayla's quarters, Optimus had his own bed, a desk and computer connected to the holonet, and a private bathroom. The Prime removed his helmet and placed it on the desk.
Stepping away from the desk, the Prime sat down on the edge of the bed in the room and brought his hands together, closing one hand into a fist while the other went over that. He rested his elbows on his knees as he leaned forward and rested himself on his knuckles as he closed his eyes and began reviewing all that had transpired. From the Clones and the Jedi, Battle Droids and the Separatist commander, to the ships and weapons used by both sides, everything was taken into account by the Prime. So far, everything he had been told by the other Primes seemed to line up: the galaxy was consumed in a civil war and the Jedi were apart of that war.
The Jedi…
Optimus hummed to himself as he reviewed his interactions with the view members of the ancient order that sought to maintain peace. So far, the Jedi weren't as dogmatic or out of touch with the world as he had been told by his ancestors, but that was based on his very brief time with them. It would be foolish to make an assumption of the Jedi now with so little information or interaction with them. However, that shouldn't be an issue if his assumption was correct.
During their brief time together, Optimus was able to notice the subtle glances Aayla had been taking of him. As a Jedi Master, it would stand to reason her connection to the Force would be much stronger than that of Anakin or Ahsokas. It would follow that if she was as truly loyal to the Jedi Order as the Prime suspected, she would likely inform the Jedi council of his presence and the way the Force seemed to respond to his presence, and in turn, the Council would want to know of his involvement and his connection to the Force.
And then there was the Republic…
Venator-class Star Destroyer "Resolute", Bridge
After getting herself cleaned up and presentable, Aayla Secura entered the bridge of the mainline cruiser of the Republic Navy. Throughout the entire bridge, clone officers went around performing their duties to keep the ship in full running order. Walking towards the holotable at the back of the bridge, or right at the entrance to the bridge, the Twi'lek Jedi approached Admiral Yularen.
"Admiral Yularen," addressed Aayla as she stopped at the edge of the table, "I trust I haven't been keeping the council waiting for long?"
"Not at all, General," replied the human admiral, before he turned to one of the clone communication officers, "Put them through now."
The clone nodded before turning back to his station and pressed several buttons. On the holotable, three holograms appeared of varying size and alien species. One appeared to be a bald human wearing standard Jedi robes and light armor on his forearms. His arms were folded.
To his right was another figure off the same height but was hardly human. He had unusual skin tecture and wore a mask over his mouth a pair of glasses of some kind. His arms also folded, revealing he had three fingers and a thumb, with his middle finger having a very long nail. He also wore similar robes to the first.
Between the two was the shortest member of the three and had wrinkly skin, long ears, and large eyes. In his hands was a wooden cane which he rested both of his hands on. He also wore Jedi robes.
"Greetings, Masters," greeted Aayla, bowing for a moment while Yularen decided to step away to give the Jedi some privacy.
"It is good to hear from you again," said the human, "and in good health."
"It is good to speak with you as well, Master Windu," replied the Twi'lek Jedi, "There were moments we weren't so sure."
"Fortunate you were wrong then, at those times. Commended, you and the others, are," complemented the shortest Jedi, "Protecting the innocent, your priority was."
"Thank you, Master Yoda," thanked Aayla, "During or absence we encountered a prototype Separatist weapon capable of destroying all organic matter in a specified radius while leaving Separatist droids unaffected."
"Such a weapon could change the progression of this war," noted the second Jedi.
"Indeed, Master Plo," nodded Aayla, "It is for that reason we destroyed the weapon before it could be used on the local populous. The creator of the weapon is being held aboard the Resolute for further questioning."
"It is imperative we learn everything we can about this new weapon," stated Windu, "The more we know, the better we can respond to such a threat should it arise."
"Agreed," stated Aayla, however, she glanced down for a moment.
"There is something else, isn't there?" inquired Master Windu, taking note of Aayla's pause.
"Upon arriving on this planet, we encountered an individual who had also crash landed like us and helped destroy the weapon and save several of my men," informed Aayla.
"The name of this individual, if you would provide?" asked Yoda, cocking his head to the left slightly.
"His name is Optimus Prime," replied Aayla.
Temporary Quarters, Venator-class Star Destroyer "Resolute"
Optimus continued to ponder over what he knew of the Republic and so far, that was not much. While he had been told by the Primes the Republic was corrupt, much like the High Council was on Cybertron, he had no information to confirm this fact or if it was as corrupt as he had been told. While he did not doubt the words of his ancestors, he still must find out for himself just how dire the situation was for the galaxy at large. The Primes told him he had to learn of the nature of this war himself, Optimus had plenty of questions for himself, some regarding the Separatists.
Based on what he saw from the Separatist Commander, it would seem the Separatists were no better than the Decepticons, but that was only on the surface. In war, there is much more going on that you do not see. The politics of war can be a very complicated matter, and more often than not, heavily influence the outcome of such wars. So if the Republic was as corrupt as he had been told by his ancestors, that could provide some reason why the Separatists came into existence.
No one starts a war for no reason, and he had to figure out what that reason was. Understanding the nature of the war and how it is fought can be just as important as to why the war was started and what both sides are fighting for. So far, all he knew was that the Galactic Republic was corrupt and the Separatists were fighting the Republic and the Jedi took the side of the Republic. However, there was one more element to take into consideration: the Sith.
The Primes had informed him that the Sith were using the Separatist movement to further their own agenda. Which begged the question: what was the Sith's end goal? What did they seek? And if the Sith were using the Separatists, did that mean the Separatists intentions were good and were perverted by outside influence, which would explain the behavior of the Separatist General currently being held?
Optimus let out a hum as he continued to ponder over the war and its variables. Suddenly, there was a knock on the door.
Optimus opened his eyes and turned to the door before heading over. Heading over, he opened the door to see Ahsoka and Anakin standing on the other side. Ahsoka had taken a shower like she said she would and Anakin was in a fresh set of clothing and still had a few bandages but appeared to be in better health than he was before.
"Master Skywalker, Ahsoka," greeted Optimus, bowing his head slightly, "Is there something you require?"
"Not at the moment," replied Anakin as he folded his arms, a gave a smirk, "I got discharged from the medbay to get something to eat when I ran into Ahsoka. We were just about to get some food when my Padawn suggested we bring you along."
"Hey!" spoke up Ahsoka, "You said you wanted to take a look at Optimus's weapons!"
"It's a little bit of both," explained Anakin, smirking as he enjoyed teasing his padawan from time to time, "So, would you like to join us?"
"Very well," replied Optimus as he stepped out of his quarters.
"Great, let's go," concluded the Jedi Knight as he led his Padawan and the Prime to the mess hall. Optimus followed the two to the hall, however, during the journey, the Prime caught hints of some of the men aboard the vessel speaking of his feats while on Maridun. A few clones even thanked him for saving their brothers Lucky, Cameron, and Flash from the Mastiffs, saving Anakin from certain dome via his injuries, and the destroying the prototype Separatist weapon.
Optimus's usual reply was that he only did what was necessary to protect the soldiers and to prevent the destruction of the Lurmen village. It wasn't long until the trio arrived at the mess hall and got some food of their own. Inside the mess hall, plenty of clones took notice of Optimus, commenting on his actions, some even complimenting him on his actions like in the hallways, to which Optimus gave a similar reply as before that he only did what was necessary.
"While it's not the fanciest meal," commented Anakin as he sat down one side of a table with Ahsoka taking her place at his left while Optimus sat across from them, "It fills you."
"Indeed," replied Optimus as he used a fork to take his first bite of food and not Energon. Safe to say, it wasn't the most intriguing of flavors, it was a certain improvement over the bland taste of refined Energon. While he was on Earth, he had heard of the variety of flavors food can provide at one time or another, be it on the radio or from one of their human companions.
"Not the greatest, huh?" suspected Ahsoka as she poked her food with her fork.
"In times of crisis, one cannot be too specific about what they need in order to survive," replied Optimus after he finished chewing his food.
"Agreed," stated Anakin nodding at Prime's statement, "In times of war, we can't waste a single thing, otherwise we might come to regret it."
Ahsoka nodded as she returned to her meal. It was after a moment, Optimus recalled something the young Padawan had said while they were on Maridun.
"Ahsoka," spoke up the Prime, getting the Togruta's attention.
"Yeah?" she responded.
"While on Maridun in the Lurmen Village, I spoke of the state of my home planet and the civil war that began," recalled Optimus, "I told you of the caste system and how my people were divided into different castes."
"Yeah, what about it?" Ahsoka tilted her head to the left.
"You said that you could not believe a civilization as advanced as my own could be cruel," reminded the Prime, "however, I do not recall speaking of or describing the technological state of my home."
"Oh," Ahsoka remembered, smiling sheepishly, "Yeah, I kinda assumed your people were pretty advanced, given your weapons and your ship. Both seemed pretty advanced."
Optimus nodded, "A fair assessment and yes, my people are incredibly advanced as you have witnessed in my weapons."
"Speaking of which, I'm kinda curious about those and how they work," spoke up Anakin, his attention falling to the bracers on Optimus's arms.
"May I ask why?" requested Optimus as he tilted his head to the left.
"Well, let's just say I'm curious about things technological," replied Skywalker, "and it's not everyday you get to take a look at technology from the Unknown Regions."
"A fair reason," replied Optimus after a moment, "Although I may need to step back for this."
"Take as much space as you need," offered Anakin, a somewhat excited smirk appearing on his face. Standing up from the table, Optimus stepped back until he was a safe distance from all around him. First, the Prime converted the bracers into their gauntlet form, covering his hands in large metallic gloves. He then shifted them into their next form, his Ion Blasters. A few clones whistled in awe at the sight of the silver hand cannons. It was then he transformed them into their last form, his twin swords. However, he took one step further and extended them a bit more. Unlike before where the blades went over his hands, they actually disconnected from the bracer and formed their own handles. Optimus flipped the sword around his right hand for a brief moment before retracting the blades and reverted his weapons back into their bracer form.
"Gotta say, those are some interesting weapons," noted Anakin as Optimus sat back down once more, "Didn't realize you knew how to use a sword."
"It is a skill I learned during the war for my home," replied Optimus as he looked down at the devices on his arms.
"Where did you get them?" asked Ahsoka.
"They were given to me by my mentor," replied the Prime.
"I have to say, I'm gonna have to take a look at those sometime," said Anakin as he smirked.
"It's kinda his thing," said the Padawan, "Always tinkering."
"Not always, snips," admonished Skywalker, though his smirk betrayed his tone.
"Given how much you sometimes work on the Twilight, I'm gonna have to disagree with you on that, Master," countered the Padawan Togruta. As the the Master and his student began chatting, Optimus watched and learned. Something told him that their relationship wasn't like most Jedi and their Padawans.
Venator-class Star Destroyer "Resolute", Bridge
"What is it about this Optimus Prime that warrants such interest?" asked Master Windu as he, the other Council Members, and Aayla spoke together.
"Optimus Prime hails from the Unknown Region, from a planet he calls Cybertron," explained Aayla, "He said his planet was consumed in a civil war that he claims killed his home, rendering it uninhabitable. Both sides of the conflict were forced to abandon their home and seek refuge elsewhere in the Unknown Region, but the war continues on."
"If his people are still at war, why has he left the Unknown Region?" questioned Master Plo, "Surely, he would have remained with his comrades in order to bring the war to an end?"
"I believed so as well," Aayla agreed with Plo before bringing up what Optimus had told her, "But the reason he left his home was to seek answers."
"Answers to what exactly?" inquired Mace Windu.
"Before leaving his home, Optimus was informed by the elders of his people, mystics, that there exists a way to restore his home," explained the Jedi Master.
"To restore his home for his faction?" supplied Windu.
"For all his people, regardless of their faction," corrected Aayla, "While he doesn't know where it is, or if he will ever find it, he believes he must find and retrieve whatever it is to restore his home, for all his kind."
"A great task he has been given," noted Yoda as he bowed his head for a moment before continuing, "But not all, there is to this him you believe, yes?"
"Yes, Master Yoda," nodded Aayla, "It is his connection to the Force."
"How strong is his connection?" asked Master Plo.
"It appears he is unable or unwilling to show any ability to use the Force," explained the Twi'lek.
"Would you explain in more detail to what you mean?" asked Master Windu.
"While he doesn't appear to possess any ability to master the Force, the Force itself seems to be drawn to him," she explained, "It's as if the Force itself is welcoming him."
The Council members pondered for a moment on this revelation. While it was true that the Force would work in mysterious ways (Anakin being the most recent example of such), it did bring the man into unusual circumstances. While it may be worth looking into in greater detail, Optimus could also be the reason for the disturbance in the Force they sensed some time ago.
"Difficult situation, this is," stated Yoda after a moment, "Learn more of this Optimus Prime, we must."
"I agree," Master Windu agreed with Yoda before turning to Aayla, "It would be best if we speak with him in person. Bring Optimus Prime back to Coruscant, if his connection is as intriguing as you say it is, then it is in our best interest to understand in depth who Optimus Prime is."
"Yes, Master Windu," replied Aayla as the transmission ended. With the conversation ended, Aayla turned to Admiral Yularen who had returned.
"I trust the meeting went well?" inquired the admiral.
"It did, but now we must return to Coruscant," answered the Jedi Master, "The Council would like to speak with Optimus in person."
"Very good, General," acknowledged Yularen, "We should be underway shortly and arrive at Coruscant in good time."
"Good," nodded Aayla, "Now all that is left is to inform Optimus of the Council's desire to speak with him."
Mess hall, Venator-class Star Destroyer "Resolute"
Back in the mess hall, Optimus was still eating his meal with Ahsoka and Anakin, both of home decided to put aside their banter to speak a bit more with the Prime.
"So, Optimus?" began Ahsoka as she held her cup in her hands as the Prime took a sip of his own drink, "What was it like on Cybertron before the war started?"
Optimus seemed to pause for a moment before answering, "To be truthful, it largely depends on your place in the High Council's caste system. For some, Cybertron seemed as though it was paradise, but for others, in the lower caste, it was almost constant abuse and the threat of punishment should you not perform your duty."
"Oh," replied the Padawan awkwardly.
"I was fortunate enough to be born into the middle caste," continued Optimus, recalling his time on Cybertron before the war, "At times the Council's corruption could be hardly felt, while at others it could be as clear as day."
"Still hard to believe a race as advanced as yours can be like this," spoke up Anakin bitterly.
"It is not unprecedented, Anakin," replied the Prime, "As I said before, one can exist for eternity and still be cruel if their only interest is to cater to themselves at the expense of others, and to be honest, Cybertron came to be this way at the end of the Golden Age."
"'The Golden Age?'" repeated Ahsoka, picking up on that sentence alone.
"Years before my time, Cybertron had once been a prosperous civilization, when the Caste System did not exist. During the time which my people refer to as the Golden Age, Cybertron was at its height of glory. You see my weapons are hardly considered the most advanced devices my people have produced."
"What do you mean by that?" asked Anakin.
"You see, my people were once far more advanced than you realize, creating machines and devices capable of great deeds, one such device being a method of galactic transport: the Space Bridges," explained Optimus.
"What's a Space Bridge?" asked Ahsoka.
"During the Golden Age, the Ancients prided themselves as Star Explorers, using either towers or rings built on Cybertron to create gateways between planets and Cybertron. Effective bypassing the distance between worlds to explore and chart," explained the Prime.
"'A gateway between planets,'" said Anakin before he picked up on something, "Wait, if your people explored the galaxy at large, who is it you do not know of the galaxy?"
"As I had said, the height of the Golden Age was long before my time and had declined considerably when I was born," explained Optimus, "The Ancients believed their involvement in the Galaxy should be kept a secret, fearing that such technology could have disastrous consequences in the wrong hands. Though they explored different worlds, they kept their presents on such worlds a secret, to avoid creating possible disruption. Over time, their feats began to decline and soon common knowledge of visiting other worlds had been lost, as did their technology."
"How is it you if everyone else on your planet seemed to forget?" pointed out Skywalker.
Optimus was about to answer the Jedi Knight when they were suddenly approached by Aayla Secura.
"Optimus, may I have a word with you for a moment?" she requested.
"I'm afraid we will have to finish our discussion another time, Master Skywalker," stated the Prime, turning to the Jedi Knight before directing his attention to Aayla, "Yes, General Secura? How may I assist you?"
"I spoke to the Jedi Council a few minutes ago and informed of our time on Maridun," she explained, "I also told them of our meeting and your actions on the planet, as well as about you."
"I trust you only revealed to them as much as I have to you?" inquired Optimus as he stood up.
"Yes, and they would like to speak with you in person," confirmed the Jedi Master.
"I suspect this meeting is in relation to my mission in the galaxy at large; to restore my homeworld?" continued the Prime.
"Your suspicions are correct, Optimus," nodded Aayla, "The Council wishes to know more about you and your home."
"I understand," nodded Optimus, "Curiosity of an individual who originates outside the known universe claiming to be partaking in a crucial mission is guaranteed to invoke questions. I will answer whatever questions the council may have, but I request the right to refuse a question I deem irrelevant or of personal matters."
"I understand," nodded Aayla, "We are already enroute to Coruscant, it won't be long now."
"Understood," replied the Prime.
Later...
Like Aayla had said, the journey to Coruscant was not long. Apparently, in this galaxy, the main form of transportation between worlds is via interstellar transports equipped with what Optimus was informed was referred to as Hyperdrives. The hyperdrive allowed entry into what was referred to as hyperspace, a form of faster than light travel. The power and spend of a ship throw hyperspace depended on the rating of the hyperdrive class. The lower the class, the faster the ship, a class 1 hyperdrive being the fastest current hyperdrive.
Such devices were not new to Optimus, Cybertron having its own variant, referring to them as Super Luminous Space Drives. While he was not an engineer in the slightest, he had a basic understanding of how both drives worked and they seemed to function in much similar roles, however, a Hyperdrive requires a computer referred to as a navicomputer to plot courses between planets, similar to way points along a journey. It is ill advised to use a hyperdrive without plotting a course which could result in colliding with a planet, star, asteroid, or another ship.
Presently, Optimus was standing in the Venator's command bridge, looking out into Hyperspace. He would admit, it was rather mesmerizing to watch the blue glow surround the ship in a shining tunnel of light.
"We should be arriving soon," spoke up Aayla who approached from behind, "I trust you have not been staring at hyperspace for too long?"
"I have not, General Secura," replied Optimus turning towards Aayla to give her his attention.
The Jedi Master chuckled as she smiled, "It is perfectly fine to refer to me by my name, Optimus."
"My apologies, Aayla," answered the Prime, "It is a habit of mine to refer to those of higher power with their titles."
"I understand," nodded the Twi'lek before her attention was directed to Yularen.
"General, we shall be arriving shortly," informed the Admiral.
"Very good, Admiral," responded Aayla. Hearing that they will be arriving soon, Optimus looked forward to watch as the ship exited hyperspace and Coruscant suddenly came into view. Almost immediately, the Prime swore they had arrived on Cybertron, but he remembered that was not the case. He was in another universe and Cybertron was further away than it had ever been before.
"Is something bothering you, Optimus?" asked Aayla as she sensed some anxiety, if only for a second from Optimus.
"Yes," replied the Prime after a moment before turning to leave, "I believe the Council is waiting for us?"
"Indeed," nodded Aayla, though she took note of the slight hesitation before Optimus answered. Something about Coruscant reminded him of something, she didn't know what it was but she intended to ask him about it. But she would do so later as she led the Prime out of the bridge and to the hangar where they would take a shuttle down to the Jedi Temple.
Landing Pad, Jedi Temple, Coruscant
Standing at the landing pad were Masters Plo, Windu, and Yoda. They had been informed that Aayla and the others had arrived and were presently taking a shuttle to the Jedi Temple.
"Taken an interest in Optimus, she has," said Yoda suddenly, getting the attention of both Plo and Windu.
"If what she says is the case, then it would be understandable," replied Master Plo.
"Even so, she should proceed with caution," warned Master Windu, "She must not allow herself to grow too attached."
"Agreed," nodded Yoda, "Form attachments, a Jedi should not. Dangerous it can be."
"Let us see if what Master Secura says is true," concluded Plo as they saw the Nu-Class Attack Shuttle come into view.
*Insert Song; Transformers: The Score - Optimus*
Upon seeing the shuttle, Yoda reached out with the Force to sense all the passengers within. Sure enough, there was Master Secura, along with Skywalker and Ahsoka. Then there was the passenger who had earned the most attention. He could definitely sense the Force surrounding this individual. Not just the Light-Side, but the Dark Side as well. Initially concerned, what astonished the Grand Master of the Jedi Order was that both sides of the Force seemed to settle in harmony around this individual. In a way, he could hear the song of the Dark Side but what shocked the Jedi Master was the song of the Light Side was playing in tandem with the Dark Side. Creating a powerful orchestra of both sides of the Force.
In the face of the Dark Sides symphony of poisonous notes, instruments, and tempo, the Light Side had responded in kind with its own song. It was as if the Light Side had acknowledged the hegemony of the Dark and accepted it before entering its own chorus of melodies and sonnets.
The aging head of the Jedi Order was brought back to reality when the shuttle landed in front of them. The boarding ramp lowered and revealed Aayla Secura, Anakin Skywalker, and Ahsoka Tano. The three stepped off the shuttle and towards the Jedi Masters.
"Greetings, Masters," said Aayla.
"Glad for your arrival, we are," replied Yoda.
"Kotoya, Master Plo," greeted Ahsoka as she smiled at Plo Koon.
"Kotoya, little 'Soka," he answered.
"I trust you are recovering well, Skywalker?" asked Windu.
"I'll be better after a while," replied Anakin as he folded his arms. It was then, the group noticed Optimus had hung back in the shuttle for a moment before exiting. His helmet was tucked up underneath his left arm as he stepped off the shuttle. The Jedi Masters all sensed the Force surrounding the Prime and the song that followed.
"I assume you are the one called Optimus Prime?" inquired Master Plo.
"I am," replied Optimus, bowing to the Jedi Masters, "May I have your acquaintance?"
"Indeed, I am Jedi Master Mace Windu," said the dark skinned man as he stepped towards the Prime, "This is Master Plo Koon, and Grand Master Yoda of the Jedi Order."
"A pleasure to meet you all, Master Jedi," said Optimus.
"A pleasure it is, for us as well," replied Master Yoda, "Much to discuss, there is."
"Master Secura informed me you had questions regarding my identity?" recalled the former archivist.
"Indeed," nodded Plo as he gestured for the group to head to the temple, "Shall we proceed?"
"Very well," responded Optimus, "I will answer whatever question you may have, but I request the right to refuse a question should I feel it is irrelevant or of personal nature."
"Grant you this request, we will," said Yoda, "Force you to answer our questions, we will not."
"Then let us proceed," stated the Prime.
With everything out of the way, the Jedi lead the group towards the temple where they would learn as much as they could about Optimus Prime and what he was willing to divulge. Little did the know, they were about to interview someone greater than they had ever encountered before.
To Be Continued...
A/N
Small request for the readers following this story, I could use a little help regarding describing what a Jedi is, as in specifically and in a way that fits the current Jedi Order. I understand what the Jedi are but describing it in a way that a Jedi would during the clone wars is proving to be a little difficult. So if anyone has any suggestions, send me a message as soon as you can or whenever is convenient.