The actual meeting between the Prime, the Senior Priest and the Lead Guardian took place in the Senior Priest's private office. Though still underground, it must have been relatively near the chamber that held the AllSpark. With his ultra-sensitive doorwings, the radiation that managed to penetrate the heavy shielding around the chamber was enough to caress Prowl's frazzled neural wiring. At the very least, he felt his frame relax noticeably as they entered.

Optimus, on the other hand, straightened and he glanced upward briefly before looking at the Priest. "We are near the AllSpark."

Not truly a question, the Prime's words drew Prowl's attention as they held a hint of longing. The Priest looked at him bemusedly while gesturing to the guest's chair at the desk. "We are directly underneath it."

Optimus smiled as he settled into the indicated chair while Jazz and Ironhide managed not to show any of their reaction. First Aid shifted, glancing upward, awe filling his expression. Prowl was able to control most of his outward reaction, but his doorwings flicked of their own accord, bathing in the energy emanating from the artifact of the creator of his spark.

The Lead Guardian did not miss the uncontrolled action, though the emerald mech said nothing on the matter as he took up a position behind his priest.

Ironhide took up a mirroring position behind and to the side of the Prime. Jazz stood to the Prime's other side. Prowl was prepared to stay with First Aid near the far wall as he was not truly in the Prime's 'inner circle', despite what the Guardian had accused.

However, a silent transmission from Jazz indicated the saboteur wanted Prowl at his shoulder. Blinking, Prowl quickly stepped up to stand just behind Jazz's left shoulder. Optimus was clearly aware he was there as the larger mech's EM field brushed against his in warm welcome, but the Prime kept his attention on the Priest. The opalescent mech, on the other hand, glanced at Prow thoughtfully.

"Before we discuss plans for the AllSpark's safety, let us discuss the situation in Simfur itself." Optimus spoke smoothly. "Prowl informs me there are concerns about the loyalty of some of the city council members. Specifically, Senator Ratbat and Senator Diecast."

The Priest's optics widened, but the Guardian shot a look at Prowl. It was the emerald mech who answered. "There is little question about Ratbat. Diecast, however, has been a supporter since the war started."

The Prime did not answer and it took Prowl a moment to realize that Optimus was looking at him expectantly as well. At first Prowl was caught off guard as he realized the Prime was inviting him to join the discussion as an equal.

Then, feeling a surge of newborn confidence that mingled with lingering disbelief, Prowl looked back at the Guardian, his doorwings flaring respectfully but in a way that indicated he was standing his ground. "Do you have any other suspects, Guardian?"

The gold-trimmed mech blinked as he considered Prowl. He answered slowly and a hint reluctantly. "No."

"Then it is only logical to begin with the most likely suspects." Prowl concluded, his voice and demeanor that of utmost professionalism, and he felt Jazz flare his own field just enough to signal his silent support and agreement.

The Lead Guardian looked sharply at Jazz then his optics narrowed onto Prowl. "We cannot just go accusing council members of treason. Especially ones who have been as openly supportive as Diecast has been."

The Guardian's armor flared challengingly and still the Prime remained silent, watching Prowl. The tactician had the distinct impression that the Prime was not just listening, but was also evaluating – testing – his reactions and how he handled the situation. For what reason, Prowl could not determine and decided he did not have the time nor enough data to determine if he was right let alone the reason.

Instead of dwelling on that possibility Prowl kept his focus on the most pressing issue at the moment. He glanced at Jazz to see that the saboteur was also watching him. Their optics met and Prowl knew in that instant that though Jazz had even less information at the moment than he, and was distinctly uncomfortable with where this might take them, his former interrogator was trusting his judgment and was willing to follow his lead. Even in the face of such opposition as the Lead Guardian of the Temple in Simfur.

It was a level of trust that went beyond the simple claim of friendship and it threatened to send Prowl's balance systems wheeling.

Then his systems stabilized as the full weight of what he was considering – of what Jazz had doubtless already considered – hit him. As he continued to meet Jazz's visored gaze, Prowl understood what the next logical step was. More than that, he knew he had Jazz's support. They both knew the darker skill set of the other and they both knew what needed to be done.

Prowl snapped his optics up to look at the Lead Guardian. The entire epiphany had only taken a couple of astroseconds to settle in his processor and spark. Prowl was aware that Jazz continued to watch him for a nanosecond longer and then likewise turned back to face the two temple leaders, his lip plates pressed into a grim, determined line.

"We can discover the truth in such a way as to keep you out of it." Prowl offered calmly, expecting a negative reaction.

Prowl was not disappointed. The Guardian's engine growled and his optics flashed. "What? Would you torture a potentially innocent mech?"

All of the Autobots bristled at the accusation, even the Prime's helm lifted indignantly at the Guardian's words.

Prowl's engine revved and he just kept himself from stepping forward. He spoke before any one else could, his voice dangerously flat. "I have been tortured, Guardian."

Both Priest and Guardian jerked backward at the evenly delivered declaration. Likewise, each of the other Autobots winced in various ways. But Prowl did not take his gaze or attention from the Guardian as he continued. "I would not condone the use of such tactics on any mech, let alone when there is any possibility of innocence."

"But you have already decided Senator Diecast is guilty." The Guardian took a small step forward.

"He is a suspect." Prowl corrected. "An investigation into whether or not he is actually guilty is what I am proposing."

The Guardian opened his lip plates to speak but a tiny gesture from the Priest in front of him made him deflate. "If there is a possibility, it should be investigated. Within reason."

Optimus chose that moment to interject. He looked at Prowl. "This must be handled subtly."

Prowl dipped his helm in agreement, but it was Jazz who spoke. "We got it, Boss 'Bot. Come on Prowler."

Prowl frowned down at the smaller mech. "It is Prowl." He corrected, his irritation at the Guardian's insinuations finding vent at the smaller mech.

Jazz just grinned, either brushing off Prowl's annoyance or recognizing where it was truly directed. Perhaps Jazz shared that frustration. Either way, Prowl felt a stab of guilt for snapping at his friend.

As if reading his thoughts – not an impossibility, considering how many times the saboteur had been in his processor – Jazz shot Prowl a mischievous grin. "I know. But today my version fits better."

Prowl just released a huff air, quietly relieved Jazz had not taken his biting words personally. Effectively put back in his place regardless, Prowl followed the saboteur out of the Senior Priest's office.

… … …

It did not take long for Jazz and Prowl to decide on the best method of gathering intelligence on Senator Diecast. While Jazz was special ops, Prowl was an Enforcer and had experience in such investigations in his own right. Even though they did not synch to pool their combined experience, they would not have needed to.

Thanks to one of Jazz's specialized skills, they were easily able to slip into the senatorial complex. Jazz was hacked into the local, encrypted net before they had even gone more than ten strides down the corridor. Even with all he knew about the saboteur, Prowl was impressed with the silver mech's abilities, surprised even though he had felt Jazz's skills at work in his own processor. Prowl realized that even when Jazz had done his worst to him, it had never been as bad as it could have been.

Jazz transmitted Senator Diecast's location, which happened to be his office and then slipped away to all but meld into the building around him. The suddenness of the saboteur's disappearance almost managed to surprise Prowl. Nevertheless, he knew he was expected to continue to Diecast's office.

No sooner had Jazz's physical presence effectively disappeared from Prowl's perception, he received a ping on an Enforcer specific communication system. At least Prowl had assumed it was Enforcer specific, though on second thought he realized it would be logical for spec ops to have a similar system. It was the same modification that had allowed him to link his communication systems to Hound the orn that Barricade had betrayed them.

Nor did Prowl think it strange that Jazz would utilize such a system without first verifying Prowl had it himself. Then again Jazz had doubtless gained a very thorough accounting of all such systems Prowl had at his disposal during his interrogation and subsequent scans.

Without even thinking about it, Prowl accessed the ping, integrating and then locking the system. It was a weight off his doorwings to know Jazz would be acting as his handler in this encounter. Even so he felt his curiosity pique.

/I thought such connections were not utilized during special operations due to the risk of discovery and hacking./ Prowl asked as he continued down the hall.

/It isn't, not for infiltrations into Decepticon facilities. But this is more like an undercover Enforcer operation./ Jazz explained. /Chance of discovery is slim ta none./

Prowl hummed his understanding, sending the same digitally. Then he thought of something else. /I did not know you were an Enforcer./

/I wasn't. Not really./

Prowl frowned, but he knew Jazz enough to know that when he 'spoke' with that tone there was no getting more information out of him. Whatever his past might have been, Prowl could not argue this was not the time to ask. And even if it were, he could tell by the way Jazz had shut down the conversation that it was not something he wanted to reveal. As counter intuitive as it might seem; his own loss of privacy to Jazz's scans actually made Prowl reluctant to even wish another subject to the same level of scrutiny… even if that someone was the one who had pried into his own processor. Or perhaps it was just that Jazz was his friend and, despite their recent history, Prowl would not want to put a friend in such a situation.

Perhaps if interpersonal relationships and emotional sentiment were easier for Prowl to decipher, he would have better understood what was going on inside his own processor over the matter. As it was, however, he knew the situation was too critical and decided to just accept things as they were and focus on the mission at hand.

/He's alone for tha moment./ Jazz told him as Prowl neared his destination, his digital voice smooth and every ounce the serious professional. /I've tweaked his schedule; he doesn't have any appointments for a couple of joors now. We should be done long before that./

/Acknowledged./ Prowl continued down the hall, slipping into the role of undercover investigator. This time there was none of the underlying dread that had accompanied Prowl the last time he had taken the role of uncovering a possible traitor.

Prowl paused outside the door to Diecast's office, carefully scanning the space on the other side, his powerful doorwing sensors able to easily break through the light shielding that protected the interior from unintentional bleed over to mechs in the hall.

Frowning, Prowl signaled Jazz. /I detect at least three monitoring devices in Senator Diecast's office./ He paused, more carefully scrutinizing the miniscule readings. /One I suspect is his own, perhaps to keep surveillance on his office when he is not present. One is a standard Decepticon design and is carefully masked. The other… I suspect is from another council member, I could not say who./

Jazz's growl was almost audible over the comm. line. /Ya mean we're the only ones not keeping on optic on tha mech?/

/Apparently./ Prowl's reply was rather dry.

Jazz was silent for a moment and Prowl waited. /Yeah. Okay. Gimme an astrosec… Alright. I've got 'em blocked. A fake data feed. You're good ta go./

Prowl sent an affirming blip and started to move forward, but Jazz's sudden comm. cut him short. /Wait! If that 'Con bug is well masked, how're ya able to detect it… in the hallway no less?/

Prowl smirked at the closed door in front of him and was unable to hide the hint of amusement that seeped into his own digital voice at Jazz's consternation. /Wheeljack's upgrade to my doorwings. My hypothesis is that because they are not having to keep up with the range necessary for a Seeker, they compensate for detail and precision at close range./

/Ah./ Jazz paused and when he continued, he sounded… odd. /That means ya could detect the monitoring devices in your quarters too./

/Indeed./ Though Prowl did not expect this turn in the conversation, he was careful to keep his reply completely neutral. /While most have been removed, some are still in place and are still active./

/… Um. Prowl, that's not…/ The saboteur trailed off into an uncomfortable silence.

Taking pity on the other mech Prowl transmitted calm acceptance. /I understand there must be reasons continued surveillance is deemed necessary./

Indeed, in Jazz's place, no matter what, Prowl doubted he would be convinced to discontinue such surveillance for at least a decavorn.

Jazz's reply was subdued. /It's not what ya might think./

/Jazz…/

/Nah. I'll explain later. Ya deserve that much./

Prowl blinked. Not really sure how to respond to the seriousness in that statement. Finally he settled for a neutral. /If you wish. Am I clear to proceed?/

Like a switch getting flipped, Jazz was all business again. /Go for it Prowler./

Giving a purely mental optic roll at the nickname, Prowl checked to make sure his dampener was still functioning and finally set to work hacking the door lock. It was ridiculously easy. Whatever Diecast might be, a complicated code writer was not it.

The dark copper-brown mech jumped when the door slid open. "What the frag?" He spun around to face Prowl and his optics bulged. "Autobot!"

"Am I?" Prowl asked lowly. "Come, come. Do not expect me to believe you do not recognize me."

The finely crafted frame did not relax as Diecast considered him closely before his armor flared. "Prowl."

Prowl nodded once, stepping closer and letting the door close behind him and initiating his own digital lock on the porthole. He felt Jazz snicker in the back of his processor.

Diecast failed to control a small jump as his door beeped indicating it was now sealed tight. "I know you are no longer with Megatron. And I am not blind. So the rumors are true then. You have become an Autobot."

Prowl did not respond immediately, deciding which way to play this. He still suspected Diecast was not what he claimed. His experience as an Enforcer and then as a Decepticon making it clear to him that all was not as it seemed. "What else could I be?"

Diecast frowned. "Some say you cannot be trusted. That if you can turn on your own faction you will turn on anybody. Is that why you are here? To murder me?"

Prowl narrowed his optics. Diecast was acting defensive; leveling accusations in an attempt to distract him. Interesting.

"If I wished to murder you, you would be dead." Prowl informed him coolly.

Diecast's lip plates moved silently for a moment. "If you were here to spy on me for the Autobots you wouldn't have revealed yourself." The senator sneered suddenly. "Is that it? Are you trying to get back on Megatron's good side by telling him about me?"

Prowl merely cocked an optic ridge, curious as to what else the mech might come up with. Then Jazz's smooth digital voice slipped into his processor. /Keep him talking. I've almost got into the last of his communications logs./

"Do you really believe Megatron is not already aware of your… change of spark?" Prowl chose to ask

Diecast stiffened. "I wouldn't know what Megatron knows."

"Hm." Prowl hitched his doorwings up in a faintly arrogant manner. "That is something that safe to keep in your processor. You do not know what the Lord Protector knows."

The copper mech blinked. "And you do?"

Prowl let his optic ridge cock again. "You have said I am no longer working for Megatron."

Diecast went completely still at that, even his vents stalling. "Are you?"

Prowl moved forward, deliberately nonchalant, to run his fingers over the desk. He touched a data pad sitting on its surface, noting how, though Diecast's optics darted to it, he did not dare try to snatch it up. "Am I what?"

"Still working for Megatron."

Prowl narrowed his optics, letting his vents flare. "Do you honestly think I would tell you I was?"

Notably, Diecast relaxed at that question, though it could have been a show. "No. I guess not. You still haven't answered my question. Why are you here?"

"Ah, yes." Prowl allowed his doorwings to flick in subdued amusement, watching Diecast's optics take in the movement, almost able to see the processor behind those optics trying to figure out what that movement might mean. "I'm here to see you, of course."

Just then Jazz pinged him. /Got it. He hasn't had direct contact with Megatron, but his top aid is… Rumble?/

/Soundwave's symbiont?/ Prowl gave no outward indication of his private communication.

/Apparently. And our little Decepticon has been regularly in touch with Ratbat. Despite their great big falling out./ Jazz's tone turned biting.

/And with his master no doubt./ Prowl added, thinking for a nanosecond before asking, /So, are they working together or is Rumble spying on Diecast?/

/Not sure./ Jazz was clearly dissatisfied with not knowing. /But Diecast is a politician. This whole thing could be part of tha ruse. A way to keep from looking guilty himself./

Prowl merely signaled the equivalent of a grunt of assent, his sharp gaze never leaving his target. "Tell me, Council Mech, how carefully do you choose your assistants?"

Immediately Diecast's internal temperature spiked and his answer was tight. "Carefully."

"So you trust them? Implicitly?"

Diecast hesitated tellingly, visibly tensing even further. "Are you telling me one of them has betrayed me?"

/This is getting me nowhere. We are talking in circles./ Prowl sent to Jazz with a frustrated transmission. /Isn't smooth-talking your forte?/

Jazz laughed over their comm. line. /Nice that someone finally sees my worth. Fine. He has us beat with word games. Try telling him about Rumble, but stay enigmatic about your own loyalties./

Prowl sent confirmation and addressed Diecast at the same time. "Are you aware Rumble is one of Soundwave's symbionts?"

There was hesitation in Diecast's optics and then Prowl saw the decision – the same decision he had seen numerous times as an Enforcer: a decision to lie.

Diecast exploded to his pedes, his face contorted into a mask of feigned outrage. "Impossible! No. Rumble has always been a trusted member of my team. I will not stand for this slander! Especially not from a mech like you."

"Come now, Senator Diecast." Prowl almost purred the words, though they were still flat and emotionless. "Do not take me for a fool. We know you are spying on the Temple Guardians and that your supposed change of spark is only a complicated façade to gain their trust. You've done well."

Optics glinting, Diecast straightened arrogantly, all attempts at maintaining a cover of innocence abandoned. "A nice theory. But you cannot prove a thing, especially if you are dead."

Prowl let his own armor flare challengingly even as his systems whirred to even greater attentiveness. "You threaten me?"

Diecast sneered. "Simply stating a fact. Autobot or not, Megatron has put a reward for delivering your frameless helm to Kaon."

Prowl merely continued to stare at Diecast, decidedly unimpressed.

The mech looked like he wanted to fight and was afraid to do so. This was confirmed when the copper mech's engine gave a weak, almost timid growl. "Within a few orn, you will wish you had never revealed yourself to me."

Prowl was not intimidated and he let his flat glare convey that to the posturing council mech. Predictably, Diecast huffed in frustration at not being able to get a rise out of him and pointed imperiously to his door. "Now, if you are not here to assassinate me, get out. I have work to do."

/We got what we need, as much as he will probably give us. Get out of there./ Jazz's voice was subdued.

/But…/ Prowl started to protest.

/No!/ Jazz all but snapped at him, worry in his digital tone. /No. Number one rule of spec ops is to know when to withdraw. If he calls his Decepticon buddies, we can fight. But if he calls Security…/

Instantly Prowl understood, even as Jazz trailed off. If Diecast called Security, Prowl would have no choice but to submit to arrest because as far as the rest of the city knew, Diecast was loyal and this was an Autobot-aligned city. If Prowl resisted Security he would be seen as the traitor and the only way he could legally be freed without a trial would be for the Prime to intervene. And that would reveal the Prime's presence and put the entire mission – and thus the AllSpark – at even greater risk.

Besides, Jazz was also still a ranking officer and that had been an order. /Yes, sir./

Spinning on his heel struts, Prowl left the office, locking it behind him. The tactician almost reset the locks to the original, but then changed his mind, leaving it as the much more complicated, upgraded version. Diecast would need help getting out of his own office at the end of the orn. It was small justice.

… … …

The Prime and the rest of their team were still in the Priest's office when Prowl and Jazz rejoined their leader. As before, Prowl felt the healing energy of the AllSpark wash over him as they neared the office. Truly it was humbling to be so close to the ancient source of his life force and it made him feel well and truly small and insignificant.

That feeling of reverent awe did not, however, interfere with Prowl's focus as he and Jazz faced the leader of their faction.

"Report." The Prime rumbled softly.

Jazz and Prowl glanced at each other and the tactician got the distinct impression that Jazz was waiting on him to give that report.

Prowl looked back at the Prime. "We have enough evidence to point to the fact that Diecast is a probable Decepticon informant, though it is true that his cover is still strong."

A frown tipped the Prime's lip plates. "Explain."

"His Senior Assistant is one of Soundwave's Symbionts named Rumble." Prowl grimaced. "The Senator lied about being ignorant of that fact."

"He is willingly allowing one of Soundwave's symbionts on his staff?" Ironhide growled but was cut off by the Senior Priest.

"And you can just tell if a mech is lying, Enforcer?" The Priest asked with quiet challenge and warning.

Prowl stiffened at the unspoken undercurrents in the silver and opalescent mech's words. "I have been an Enforcer for over two hundred vorns. One does not spend even a quarter of that time questioning criminals and not learn to detect attempted subterfuge."

"You haven't even considered the possibility you could be wrong." The Guardian growled.

Prowl's doorwings did not even flick, it was as if he were used to facing such comments and dealt with them on a frequent basis. "On the contrary, Guardian. There is approximately a 20.538% chance that Senator Diecast is being honest in this one assertion. However, there remains a 91.326% probability that he is willingly complicit in delivering vital intelligence to the Decepticons."

"The charge you are leveling is serious." The Priest pressed, though not appearing as skeptical as his guard.

Jazz answered before Prowl could. "He threatened Prowl. Apparently Megatron has a reward on his helm. My guess is; he's gonna make sure ol' Megs knows Prowl is here." The minibot looked up at Prowl. "At least if that happens, there won't be any question as to whether he's our leak."

Prowl cocked an optic ridge, quietly relieved for the saboteur's intervention. "Indeed."

Ironhide suddenly smirked. "You're getting pretty good at ferreting out traitors, Prowl."

"Ironhide…" The Prime's engine rumbled warningly.

The Priest and Guardian looked at each other but did not interrupt.

Ironhide glanced at the Prime and lifted his shoulder guards in a small shrug. "What? He said he would volunteer to find a way to deal with any other traitors and he did. It wasn't my idea to use him as bait. Not this time."

Prowl and Jazz glanced at each other and the tactician realized he had not even thought about that particular connection.

Optimus' engine revved unhappily then he looked at his tactician. "Prowl?"

Prowl mentally shook off the uncomfortable feeling that had started to creep over him with Ironhide's comment and he focused back on the immediate issue. "If word of my presence in Simfur is spread, it is possible the entire team could be compromised. Though I highly doubt any one besides those here know about the rest of you."

Ironhide nodded sharply. "Then we keep you hidden. Let no one but those of us here know where you are."

Prowl thought about that and nodded. "Soundwave is relentless. If he knows I am here, he will not give up searching. And he has ways of looking for a mech that does not require direct observation."

"You think Soundwave is here?" Optimus asked, his frown deepening.

"I do not know where Soundwave is." Prowl corrected. "That is the problem. We should conclude our business as quickly as possible."

The Priest was frowning now. "Not even Soundwave can distinguish individual spark signatures this close to the AllSpark. And you are all wearing dampeners."

"I will have one of my Guardian's stay with you in case one is needed." The Lead Guardian added, a concerned expression fixed on his face plates.

Prowl's gaze sharpened on the Lead Guardian's and he thought he saw a hint of challenge in the emerald mech's stare. Temple Guardians carried a myriad of stun weapons that were capable of incapacitating even highly skilled warriors. The Guardian's commander was not taking lightly the true threat Soundwave represented. Prowl knew that such an assigned guard would be able to protect him, and would also keep him from becoming a threat if Soundwave managed to find him.

Prowl nodded.

Optimus looked at the Priest. "What we are considering is very serious. I need to consult both the Matrix and the AllSpark."

"Of course, Prime." The Priest dipped his helm. "We can close the Temple to the public for several joors tonight."

Prowl frowned at his leader. "What exactly are you considering Prime?"

The Prime did not answer right away, his field flaring with hints of worry and caution and Prowl feared he had presumed too much. But Optimus finally answered. "Moving the AllSpark. It is too vulnerable here with too many security breaches."

Prowl said nothing for a long moment, he just studied the Prime, considering and calculating the ramifications of what had been said. "Once the AllSpark is moved, it will not be safe to allow public access to it until the war is concluded." He warned quietly.

"An unfortunate necessity." The Priest spoke instead of the Prime. "Better that than allowing Megatron to gain control over it."

"Agreed." Prowl nodded sharply before looking back at his Prime. "With your permission, Prime, I will begin formulating possible evacuation plans."

Optimus blinked as if faintly surprised Prowl's cooperation had been won so easily. "Of course."

Prowl gave both leaders a half-bow and then glanced at Jazz. The saboteur nodded quickly and the two of them retreated to a far side of the room.

"I assume you are hacked into the local information net and communication signals." Prowl inquired, his voice calculated not to carry beyond Jazz's audios.

Jazz gave him a serious grin that seemed appropriate on the mech and the situation both. "I got everything you might want to know about this city right at my finger tips." He flexed his claw-like fingers demonstrably.

"I would welcome your assistance." Prowl stated formally.

Jazz stared for the briefest of moments and then his expression morphed into one of pleased expectation. "You got it."

… … …

Optimus, the Senior Priest and the Lead Guardian watched the former Enforcer and the saboteur settle down to work as they synched for a tandem process. While neither of the two Simfurites knew either of the mechs personally, Jazz's reputation was not limited to the battlefield or the Decepticon ranks. Of all the mechs to trust the former Decepticon with a tandem process, the head of Autobot special operations was not one they expected to do so.

"You trust him, Prime." The Guardian said with soft neutrality, not giving any hint of his personal feelings on the matter. "Extensively."

"Yes." Optimus rumbled equally quiet. "Trust me when I say he has worked hard to earn that trust. Nor has he betrayed it."

The Guardian let his engine rev as his vents huffed. "Indeed. It is remarkable really, that a mech like him could have such a change of spark."

Optimus shot a look at the Guardian, but it was the Priest who spoke first. "I do not believe his spark was ever Decepticon, Bulwark. Programming perhaps, but not his spark."

The Guardian's armor flattened at his friend's tone but that did not stop him from shaking his helm and looking back at Prowl. "I know you have never been wrong, Senecas, but it is still hard to believe."

Ironhide's growl brought the Guardian and the Priest's optics to him. "Prowl's an Autobot and he's loyal. If he wasn't he would have left long before now."

"He's only been on our side for a single vorn. Why are you so sure." The Guardian challenged, though he was still respectful.

Ironhide looked at his Prime and winced. He recognized that look and knew he was expected to explain. Black armor flattened over the weapon specialist's frame and he looked back at the Guardian, his tone blunt and rough with emotion as he gestured back toward Prowl. "You heard him."

The Guardian followed Ironhide's gesture with his optics, frowning as he murmured, almost to himself; "he said he was tortured…"

Crystalline blue optics widened in alarm and anger as the Guardian looked back at Ironhide. "You?"

Ironhide's armor flinched tighter to his frame and he grunted, looking away. "Not directly."

The stillness that descended on the three mechs who did not look away from him was a silent order to explain. It made Ironhide uncomfortable and he wished he had kept his lip plates shut. But he was not ignorant of the fact that in this setting, especially within the heart of the Temple itself, either the Temple Guardian or the Senior Priest could make such a demand and he would be constrained to obey. Only the Prime could spare him, but Optimus did not seem inclined to do so.

Once again wishing he had not stretched the boundaries of his own ethical coding in regards to Prowl, Ironhide released a gust of air through his vents and averted his gaze. "He was sent on a mission that got him captured by Decepticons. It was expected to happen and he knew it. He went anyway…"

Ironhide's optics drifted back toward Prowl who was leaning forward, he and Jazz both consulting a datapad, their frames still linked with two hardline connections. He continued without looking back at his audience. "Somehow he survived two hacks and everything else they did to him. After he was rescued he saved the lives of those who had let him be taken captive, even when doing so almost got him killed again. By the time we got there with the retrieval team… I don't even know how he was online. But his loyalty never wavered."

The large black mech's engine revved. "Most of us, even those on the team whose lives he saved, didn't consider him trustworthy at the time. And he knew he was being handed over to the 'Cons before he even left Iacon Base. To this orn, I still don't know why he didn't turn on us for that."

Ironhide's frame had heated to the point that his cooling fans had clicked on. He only hoped that Prowl was so deeply engrossed in his analysis that he was unaware of the conversation. Somehow, though, Ironhide suspected he would not be so fortunate and that only added to the heat building in his chassis.

The Guardian looked away from Ironhide then, back toward the subject of their discussion. "Fascinating. While I doubt nothing you have said, the stakes I must defend against are far greater."

"The AllSpark." Ironhide murmured.

"The AllSpark."

Ironhide was silent for a long moment and then forced himself to look at the Guardian. Their function was much the same, the black mech realized in a moment of grudging understanding. If he had been protective of the Prime and his faction when it came to Prowl, he could not blame the Lead Guardian of the Temple for being any less. Spark scan aside, they did not know this mech except for his reputation as Megatron's Tactician.

Clearing his vents, Ironhide indicated Prowl. "He can help, you know. And the odds are so highly against us succeeding, he'll probably be the only reason we succeed in keeping the AllSpark safe at all."

"He still has factional loyalties." The Guardian said, the armor along his shoulders flaring briefly before settling back down. "Even if they are no longer to Megatron. That can still cloud his reasoning in matters this important."

Ironhide eyed the Guardian. Yes, like medics, the Temple Priests and Temple Guardians had loyalties and responsibilities that came before those to their allied faction. Their alliance with the Autobots was for mutual benefit and defense from a common enemy. If they ever felt that said alliance was detrimental to the AllSpark, they would break it.

Optimus spoke while Ironhide was still considering that. "Prowl's oath of loyalty to the Autobot cause is only so far as it allows him to fulfill his primary duty as an Enforcer to save lives and protect the rights of others." The Prime let that soak into the Guardian's processor a moment before continuing. "That was the oath he felt comfortable giving."

The Guardian eyed the Prime thoughtfully. "And that is enough for you?"

The Prime nodded solemnly. "He has sworn fealty to the ideals of the Autobot cause. I know and trust him and his programming enough to know that if he ever determines that following that oath would require him to separate from the Autobots, then it is because we have failed to maintain those standards. I assure you, gentlemechs, if that should ever happen, then it will be I who have forfeited the right to his loyalty."

Even Ironhide was staring at his leader. The weapon specialist almost shuddered at the weight of seriousness in his friend and commanding officer's tone and demeanor. He knew Optimus had come to trust Prowl, but even he would not have guessed that trust ran so deep. But there was a quality about Optimus that Ironhide had grown to recognize in the vorns since the former archivist had become the Prime; it was the feeling Optimus radiated when the full force of the Matrix backed up his convictions.

Senior Priest Senecas recovered first, releasing a vent of air. "From your vocalizer to Primus' audios." He looked at his pedes briefly and then back up at the Prime. "I will contact you when it is clear. Until then, you are welcome to continue using my office as your base of operations."

The Prime nodded his thanks and the two Simfurites left to attend their various duties in the Temple.

Only a handful of breems after the Senior Priest and the Lead Guardian left, a much younger mech – mostly gray but edged in rich emerald highlights – walked in. His light blue, almost white, optics darted about the room and his frame tensed as he saw the handful of well-known and powerful mechs present.

Optimus waited for the young Guardian to say something, but when his vents only hitched in increasing nervousness, the Prime decided to do so first. "Yes Guardian?"

The Prime's words, spoken with careful politeness and respect for the younger mech's function snapped the Guardian's optics up to his.

Vents cycling again the Guardian bobbed his helm in greeting. "Um… Uh, sir… I'm supposed to be assigned to the Praxian, Prime, sir."

Ironhide's engine revved unhappily and the Guardian winced at the noise even before the larger black mech spoke. "As a bodyguard or as a warden?"

The young mech hesitated, visibly fighting the urge to step back and his vents rapidly cycled again. Then he seemed to gather himself and stood tall, though his armor was threatening to tremble on its mountings.

However, before he could say anything, a black and white frame interrupted, walking up behind the looming Ironhide. "Both, most likely, if the need arises. Am I wrong?"

Prowl turned to look at the new mech with that question, as did all the other Autobots in the room.

The young Guardian shifted uneasily "Um… I…" He looked down. "No, sir."

Prowl slid between the Guardian and Ironhide as the large black mech's engine revved angrily and addressed his fellow Autobots while standing as a living shield between them and the younger mech. "Of course, his first priority is to the AllSpark. While he may be assigned to help protect me, should I ever pose a threat to the AllSpark, he is duty bound to deal with that threat."

Seeing as the unhappy agitation of the higher ranking Autobots was starting to calm, Prowl turned to the faintly trembling Guardian and frowned. Why had a mech so easily intimidated been sent on an assignment such as this?

Carefully, not wanting to spook the younger mech, Prowl extended his hand in greeting. "I am Prowl."

The gray and green mech blinked, his helm snapping up to look at Prowl then his optics darted down to take in the proffered hand. "Uh… I'm Groove." He reached up to touch palms briefly with the tactician.

"You have been briefed on the situation?" Prowl asked calmly, trying to gauge what he was working with.

Groove shifted uneasily again. "Um, only that you are a former Decepticon who is now an Autobot and that you are here to help the Prime find a way to help defend the AllSpark, but that there is a possibility that you may have sleeper coding in your programing that may pose a threat to the AllSpark and that Soundwave might be here and that even if he isn't that there are probably some Decepticon agents that might try and kill you."

Angry revs came from Ironhide, Jazz and even First Aid at that rushed summary and Groove flinched. Prowl continued to consider the young Guardian carefully, beginning to suspect something.

"Indeed." Prowl confirmed the summary and hesitated a moment before voicing a question he knew might be taken wrong. "Have you taken your binding oaths yet?"

Groove stiffened, his armor flaring in personal affront that was then replaced by open nervousness, only to have that nervousness was pushed away by anger… all of which played across his faceplates for all to see. "No… But don't think I won't take you out if I have to."

Prowl felt his lip plates twitch into a genuine if tiny smile. "I do not doubt that, Groove. Come, I have work to do and if you are to fulfill either of your functions you will need to stay close."

Prowl looked toward his Prime and received a brief nod that was both dismissal and approval. Then Prowl glanced at Ironhide and the look in the tactician's optics as he gave the black mech a tiny nod was enough to tell the weapon specialist that Prowl had heard the conversation with the Temple leaders. Ironhide was relieved to see mostly appreciation and respect in the Praxian's brief look rather than judgment.

Jazz followed Prowl back to where they had been working before and the two mechs wordlessly reinitiated the tandem process as Groove took up a position behind and to the right of Prowl. The young Guardian watching them with more interest than a simple guard should.

/How do you do that?/ Jazz asked Prowl suddenly, glancing covertly at Groove from behind his visor.

/How do I do what?/ Prowl asked, not deviating from his current set of calculations.

/He was nervous as pit when he first got here and now… well, he's still nervous but not as bad./ A huff of air escaped the saboteur's vents. /I don't' know why his commanders would assign him. He isn't likely to lift a finger should anything bad actually happen./

/I disagree./ Prowl spared just enough mental processes to converse with Jazz as he continued to push calculations and analytical chains through his tactical and battle computers. At Jazz's dubious ping across the hardline connection he continued. /You are right, it seems unlikely. However, Groove is also earnest and I believe it is even more unlikely that his commanders would assign someone to this role who they believe might fail. Therefore I must conclude that it is more likely that Groove will choose to act swiftly, even if prematurely, if there is even the possibility of something happening./

Jazz just snorted air, ignoring how Groove's optics darted to his faceplates in curiosity. Groove was either very naïve or very young. Either way, the Saboteur was not overly pleased with any life depending on such a mech.

Several joors passed before the Senior Priest and the Lead Guardian returned. Sensing their entry, Prowl and Jazz disconnected. They had almost completed their assignment and Prowl was confident he could complete the rest easily without Jazz's assistance.

The Priest looked only at Optimus as he made a shallow bow and a summoning gesture. "It is time, Prime. The AllSpark is ready for your audience."

The Prime nodded, the simple movement filled with stately regality that reminded all present that Optimus was not just a powerful commander or a skilled warrior; he was a spiritual leader as well.

It was quickly decided that Jazz and Ironhide would accompany the Prime to the AllSpark's chamber as his personal guard and that Prowl and First Aid would stay in the Priest's office.

The Lead Guardian hung back as they left the spacious office, studying Prowl who returned the scrutinizing gaze openly. Then the Guardian looked past Prowl to the younger mech standing just behind him. "Has he given you any trouble, Groove?"

Groove glanced down at Prowl, surprised the Praxian did not give even a hint of irritation at such a rude comment. "N…no sir. Quite the opposite really."

The Lead Guardian considered that statement for a moment then looked back at Prowl. "You are handling this better than I would have expected."

It was clear in the subtext of the Lead Guardian's tone that the assignment of a bodyguard was as much out of concern about Prowl as concern on his behalf. Prowl did not even flinch when he answered. "This is not the first time I have been under suspicion. However, the protection of the AllSpark is what webothdesire most. If there is dangerous coding present in my Processor I would rather be incapacitated than be the cause that the AllSpark falls into Megatron's hands."

The Praxian released a vent of air and shook his helm. "As I cannot absolutely rule out that possibility, it is my preference that Groove do what he must, regardless of what that entails."

Silence hung between them for a long astrosecond and then the Guardian smiled faintly, nodding. "I hope I'm wrong. I hope Soundwave has no hold on you at all."

Prowl blinked. "Thank you. We share that hope."

Nodding again, the Guardian looked at the younger mech. "Groove."

"Yes sir?"

"This is it. Do not fail." The Lead Guardian's optics narrowed.

The sound of metal clamping tightly to a frame as air hissed through vents came from the white and green mech and Prowl frowned minutely. He waited until the Lead Guardian was gone then turned back to Groove. "What is wrong?"

Groove cleared his vents again. "My final chance. I have no where else to go if I fail."

"You may come to Iacon." Prowl said immediately.

"I don't have the aptitude for being a warrior." Groove shook his helm. "I abhor violence."

Groove looked at Prowl and shied away, armor clamping tight to his frame. "You're a tactician aren't you? You probably think me weak too."

"No." Prowl put a hand briefly on Groove's shoulder. "You would not be a candidate for taking your binding oaths as a Temple Guardian if you were weak-sparked. A dislike for violence is not weakness."

"You don't sound like a Decepticon." Groove stated, staring. Then he winced as he realized what that sounded like.

But Prowl merely nodded, lip plate quirking upward. "I take that as a very great compliment, Groove."

Groove nodded shyly but did not look up. Prowl continued to peer at the young Guardian and could see the self-doubt all but radiating from the mech. He took a step closer, causing the Guardian to look up at him.

Prowl spoke carefully and clearly. "There is a role for every mech. Regardless, I have faith you will do what is necessary. If it helps, you have my permission – should you at any point deem me a threat – to do whatever you must to neutralize that threat."

Light blue optics widened. "I… I…"

Prowl flicked him a tiny smile. "Come, I have more work to do."

Numbly, Groove followed the unusual black and white tactician back to where he had been working earlier. From the other side of the room, First Aid watched them, his optics thoughtful.


Well, I had really wanted to post this before now. I actually went two weeks after I posted the last chapter when I didn't get to type more than 200 words. While not trying to sound like I am making up excuses, let me offer an explanation about why this has taken so long and why my update schedule will most likely continue at a pace similar to this. The clinic where I am working has decided to increase our work day from 10 hours to 15-16 hours (one that begins at 4:45 am). "Yay!" for the bigger pay check… "No!" for total exhaustion. And… I'm still taking classes. So. Yeah. I do thank all of you for your patience.

Even though I have not been able to respond to reviews (see the above paragraph for the reasons why) I have truly enjoyed every single one of them. Please continue to share your thoughts with me.