In answer to everyone's silent prayers, the following week went fairly smooth.
Kayla's state of mind and soul was still slightly in question, but thankfully, the outlook was hopeful. The past few days saw her beginning to talk a bit more, and another day got her smiling again. Of course, these usual common traits of hers weren't as spontaneous as the way she was before, but as of now, anything relatively happy coming from her was a good sign.
Her guitar was still gathering dust, but the 'Bots knew her musical passion wouldn't leave her that easily, if ever.
On the seventh day, Sideswipe worked up the nerve to ask her, once again, if she wished to help him prank his brother-the bag of marbles still waiting in the wings.
…and once again, the girl said, no…she wasn't ready for that hurdle yet…
The teenager hated to disappoint him again, but she wasn't about to do anything radical until she was fully up and running. Although she was plagued by nightmares a lot less, the Sandman still refused to visit her much. But thankfully, it seemed her friends noticed her worn down nature, for she soon found herself doing much simpler and less strenuous tasks than she was normally assigned. Too beat to care, the red head just accepted it and continued on-she knew they were only looking out for her. This brought to mind the many conversations she began to become a part of once more. It wasn't long before she noticed the mechs' regular speech coming back…how they gradually talked to her like they used to, as if the horrors of the past month were slowly dissipating.
Maybe it was rightfully so, for Kayla was slowly having to get used to the fact that her father was dead, and he wasn't coming back. Her tears kept her up at night, but she constantly reminded herself of Optimus' words-he wasn't gone; not completely. She still had memories to fall back on, and her love for him was still just as strong as ever.
He would just be watching over her from above, rather than the mortal plane, now…and his soul resting in a peaceful paradise salved her conscious a tad.
And of course, she wasn't without friends. The Autobots and her fellow humans were all ready to lend their ears and audios to her if need be. And naturally, when he wasn't on a mission, Jazz stuck to the girl like glue; having lengthy conversations with her in the sanctuary that was his quarters.
With each passing day, Kayla felt just a tiny bit better…just a little, tiny bit. Her duties kept her mind off things a tad; gave her some kind of purpose, so she was no longer just a walking, automaton. Both the leader's words and Jazz's mere presence was enough to keep her going-feeling alive. She knew as long as they were around, she'd be okay.
And for the first time in over a month, everyone breathed a sigh of relief that things were finally, and gradually returning somewhat to normal.
…until…
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The doors to the med bay practically exploded off the doorway as Ratchet and his apprentice, First Aid, zoomed in at light speed and screeched to a halt; sirens blaring at full force. Wheeljack and the microscope known as Perceptor came barreling in soon after, and immediately helped Aid unload the one mech Ratchet was carrying in his alternate form. No sooner was the task done, the ambulance transformed, and together, the medic/scientist quartet placed the patient onto the nearest birth as gently as they could. With saws, spanners, and all kinds of other tools in hand, the doctor and his assistant set to work, with the two scientists waiting on the sidelines.
Things weren't looking great for Jazz's battered and unconscious form.
The latest Decepticon battle saw the Autobots facing the destructive power of the Constructacons, who were building some kind of power drainage system for Megatron. Thanks to a little spy work from Jazz, Mirage, and Bumblebee, the plot was soon uncovered, and a fleet of 'Bots were at the scene in a flash. Needless to say, all heck broke loose, and the 'Cons' newest doomsday device was reduced to rubble.
But our heroes didn't have much better luck. Bad enough they had to go toe to toe with toughened cement mixers and plows, things only turned worse when the construction vehicles combined to form the mechanized Godzilla known as Devastator. And although the 'Bots were run ragged in their fight, only one would suffer the monster's devilish fury. As the enormous Decepticon geared up for a fist slam, it was Jazz who met the business end of the giant's right cross when he pushed Bluestreak and Bumblebee out of the line of fire. The gargantuan punch sent the saboteur flying, and he took a painful landing in a crumpled heap like a tossed aside rag doll.
But just when it seemed the nightmarish scene was over, Rumble only added insult to injury by causing a massive earthquake, leading the noble mechs to be thrown off their feet. With the induced kayos, the 'Bots could only watch in horror as a large crack snaked its way up to their friend. The Porsche, in his battered state, hadn't the strength to dodge, and was merely along for the ride as he fell into a newly opened ravine.
Ratchet and First Aid now huddled around Jazz's prone body; trying desperately to remove his totaled chest plate to get at the torn parts underneath. This certainly wasn't the first time a comrade was brought in critical condition, but the anxiety was still there, none the less. Their friend saved their lives-now they had to save his.
And not surprisingly, Kayla was at the med bay doors in an instant the moment she found out; her breaths hitched and eyes teary.
The gathered mechs hung their heads in sorrow…they understood their bond-how the girl wanted to be with him. And if roles were reversed, the saboteur would be at her side-offering support. But the medics needed to operate right away, and they couldn't afford to have any distractions what so ever.
With a pained spark, Ratchet had no choice but to literally slam the door on her face.
Bumblebee took her home; trying everything to calm her down. But the teen couldn't help unleashing tears of worry. Only a month since the worst day in her life and now this?! Why? Why?! WHY?!
"Just keep praying", the Beetle said as they drove, "You know you can't lose hope…have faith."
The girl did just that…and didn't sleep a wink the whole night.
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"Jazz's vitals are stabilizing, sir", First Aid reported as he looked over the monitor next to the operating table.
Ratchet's only reply was a grunt of acknowledgement, for he was too engrossed in removing a terminal in the saboteur's arm to be repaired later-or, in his terms, "R and R ing."
The medic's assistant knew when his boss was in one of his moods, so he wisely remained quiet and returned to reconfiguring the patient's transformation module. The 'Bot could only shake his head at the whole situation; they'd been at it for hours, now-starting in the early afternoon and continuing all through the night. Even with Wheeljack and Perceptor lending a hand at times, there were just some things only a specified medic could handle. At one point, he managed to glance up at his mentor, and immediately took notice of the deep shade of blue his optics had turned-a clear sign of exhaustion. Looking over the body, there was still so much to do…it was times like this First Aid wished he were a senior surgeon right now…to be able to take over completely and let the doctor catch some much needed rest.
Meanwhile, Ratchet thanked Primus for Aid's report; a catastrophe after all this hard work was the last thing they needed. But as the medic worked on in silence, a twinge of guilt ran through his spark, as he couldn't help but think that part of this whole mess was his fault. If only he'd gotten in that ravine quicker, the Porsche might not have leaked as much energon as he did. But the doctor was forced to wait at the cliff's edge while Hound and Trailbreaker pulled Jazz out.
Ratchet was to the Autobots like McCoy was to the Enterprise-in many ways, an old, country doctor. He was one of the few who hadn't succumb to an update of any sort; choosing that good old fashioned elbow grease, wit, and experience was far greater than any new fangled tool. So far, he hadn't lost a single patient because of it, and he planned to keep it that way…but the recent situation was soon changing his opinion. Back on Cybertron, he could get into any nook and cranny some idiot managed to get stuck in and unstuck them in minutes. But now, on Earth, with this uneven terrain, coupled with a boxy transformation that couldn't take all the bumps and dips, Ratchet finally had to admit that his ambulance mode just wasn't built for off -roading like a truck or jeep. Maybe it was high time to consider a "fashion change".
Those search and rescue hummers seemed to be the new thing-now they could take anything…but unfortunately, he'd have to abide by the color code for such a vehicle.
A red and lime green Ratchet running into battle? Oh no…that color belonged to the red van known as Ironhide, who was once the victim of two bored twins who watched reruns of Scooby Doo and decided to add the Mystery Machine to the Autobot ranks…
The doctor would have to ponder it later, for suddenly, one of Jazz's fuel lines began to spurt. But thankfully, First Aid was on top of things and quickly passed him the patching adhesive. With a nod of thanks, Ratchet plugged up the hole, thus averting another problem. He proceeded to wipe his hands with a cloth; noting the pinkish-red energon stain it left. It was then the color brought a certain red head to mind, and once again, he cringed inside. He hated to kick Kayla out of the med bay, especially after all the times she added her comedy/musical act to the road of recovery for many of his patients. But he just couldn't have any distractions. It was for Jazz's own good…making him wonder how the teenager was taking all of this, considering her recent circumstances.
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Ratchet wasn't surprised when Kayla entered the med bay the next morning.
It had only been an hour since the operation was finally finished, when the doctor heard the sound of a tapping cane and looked up from a data pad to see the girl standing in the doorway. Without her sunglasses on, he was able to notice her bloodshot eyes…and the way she leaned on one leg slightly failed to mask her weariness.
A sleepless night for both of them, he figured.
"Hey, Ratch…" she mumbled as she made her way across the threshold.
The medic knew what she was really saying, and apparently, she knew he knew, for she said nothing else. Then again, no other words were necessary. With a simple sigh of, "Mornin'…" the mech rose from his chair and gently scooped her into his grasp. His stride slow, but steady, he came to stand next to the birth on which Jazz laid.
No sooner did the ambulance set the teen down upon the large bed, she immediately reached out and felt around. Finding her friend's arm, she carefully followed it down until she made it to Jazz's enormous hand. Settling in between his thumb and pointer finger, she latched on to whatever she could of him and gave him a loving squeeze. It wasn't until a full minute later that she finally spoke, rather softly, "How is he?"
There was a pause as Ratchet considered the day and night operation, and everything he and his comrades went through to fix him. But all he could say was, "He's brave-that's what. Devastator really did a number on him…but he'll live." The red head nodded; exerting a sigh of immense relief-it was all the words she wanted to hear. Meanwhile, the ambulance looked on at his patient, who was far away in a peaceful slumber. With this in mind, he went on to explain, "I had to use the most powerful sedatives I had…he'll be out for a while."
A moment of silence went by as Kayla considered the doctor's words. But soon, she squeezed the saboteur's hand harder, muttering, "I don't want him to wake up alone…not after this…he did it for me-I'll do it for him."
The medic nodded; knowing when somebody needed a moment. And after what he did the other night, it only seemed fair that he get kicked out for a while. He gave her back a gentle pat as he replied, "I understand…I'll leave you two be." With that, he turned on his heel and began to leave.
He was almost to the door when the girl called, "Ratchet?"
To that, he turned around, "Yes?"
The teen turned her head in his direction and blinked a few times, "You sound exhausted…you should get some rest; I'm not goin' anywhere."
The mech was about to protest when a yawn escaped him. There was no denying it-he was tired to the spark; last night left him utterly drained of almost all his energy…his recharge birth never looked so good. His shoulders slouching, he knew she'd made a good point-there was no way she was leaving the Porsche's side anytime soon. So, with a smile at her concern for him, he heaved, "Sounds like a plan."
He began to turn once more, only for another shout to halt him again, "And Ratch?"
To that, he turned around-again, "Yes?"
There was a pause, before the girl let a tiny smile show as she huffed in relief, "Thank you…"
Ratchet's own grin became larger; knowing the immense amount of gratitude behind those two little words. Shrugging, he returned, "Just doing my job." With a final glance, the doctor retired to recharge, leaving the musical duo alone.
Kayla leaned into Jazz's hand, letting her fingers trace the inside of his palm. A tear ran down her cheek, as she came to realize how close she was to losing him. She knew very well her heart would never be able to take it if such a thing ever happened, and she thanked the Lord almighty a thousand times over-both for Ratchet's existence and her prayers being answered. Bumblebee was right…she couldn't lose faith…and because of that, she still had her best friend. Now, all she had to do was wait…
…and wait…
The day proved to drag on at a very slow pace, but the teen remained at the saboteur's side; caressing his hand and whispering a countless mirad of things to him. She only wished he'd awaken soon…a day and night without sleep was starting to take its toll.
First Aid popped in to check on the two a while later; supplying her with the time as well. Three hours had gone by.
He offered to put her to bed when she let out a yawn…but she politely declined, muttering that "she had to stay there." Not wanting to argue, the young medic left.
The girl returned to her stroking; adding a soft hum to help keep her awake.
Half an hour later…her head began to droop.
She shifted her position and hummed a little louder…can't fall asleep-stay with him.
Four hours…his hand was so comfy and warm…
No-gotta' stay awake…can't leave Jazz alone. Keep caressing-he can hear you…maybe…
Four and a half hours…sssso tired…
Still not awake…she hoped he was okay.
Five hours…noises getting softer…
She'd never doubt Ratchet's skills, but nothing could erase her worry.
…getting sleepy…
She already lost one important person in her life…she wasn't about to lose another…
…head was ssso heavy…
If only Dad were here…
…ssssoo ssssleepy…
…he'd know what to do…
…can't…fffall…assssleep…
…Dad…
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"Hellooo? Anyone home?" asked a voice; rather playfully.
Kayla could feel someone giving her shoulder a gentle shake, and she blearily rubbed her face "…wha-?"
"Gettin' cozy, huh sleepy head?" the voice teased, "Now that's no way for a soldier to act."
The girl lifted her head slightly; recognizing the voice…and it instantly made her heart jump. But-it couldn't be…she rose a bit more; her own voice in awe "…D-Dad?"
Resounding laughter filled the air, "Well, whoja' think it was? Gomer Pile?"
The teen gasped and was on her feet in seconds-that voice! It was! Her hands waving about in a tizzy, she practically screamed but one word, "DAD!"
A warm hand took her by the arm, and she immediately dove into her father's loving embrace. Strong, yet gentle hands wrapped around her frame, and she let him stroke her head as she began to shed a few tears. With her pressed against his chest, his deep voice vibrated through her as he soothed, "Aww, hey now-don't cry…don't cry-I'm here."
The red head tightened her grip around him; not wanting to let go. Her voice hitched slightly as she managed out, "Oh, God…I missed you so much…I-" Her hands reached around his back…when suddenly, she came across something rather odd. It seemed as though something was protruding from his back…something soft, and-feathery? Despite the blackness, her eyes went wide as she realized the man had…wings…and it made her heart drop as realization set in. Taking a step back, she stuttered, "Oh no…n-no, you…y-you can't-be here…y-you're…"
"Dead?" her father finished; almost in a-amused tone.
Kayla could only nod her head, but she then darted about, trying to listen for the hum of the med bay machinery…but all was quiet. With a gasp, she continued, "B-but…t-that means I…I'm…"
"Well, you're not in the Twilight Zone, and you're not in Kansas either", the man giggled, "Ya' just nodded off-that's all."
Oh no-she was asleep! She couldn't be asleep! That means she left Jazz all alone! Her voice in a panic she huffed, "Oh no…n-no-no-no…"
But just then, her dad placed a hand on her shoulder and spoke with reassurance, "Hey, hey…calm down. Jazz is still sleepin', and you're just snorin' away beside him is all-he's fine."
A bit of relief came over her at his words, only to be replaced by confusion, "Wait…you-know Jazz?"
"Of course", he said; matter of factly, "I know all the Autobots."
The girl tilted her head, "But-how-?"
To that, her father let out a chuckle, "I'm watchin' over you, aren't I?"
It took a moment for her to understand where he was coming from exactly, but soon, it dawned on her, "Then…Optimus was right."
"Uh huh…" the man answered. She could tell he was smiling as he went on, "Gotta' love that guy…wish he was in my company-coulda' used him…"
The teen could only stand there; her mind still drawing a bit of a blank at the whole unbelievable situation. This could've been just a dream…but her dad never got to meet the Autobots, so how would he know anything about them? There was another long pause before she muttered, above barely a whisper, "H-how are you here? Why?"
Her father still had a hand on her shoulder, and proceeded to give her a caring squeeze, "Well, I saw you were havin' some trouble, so I wanted to make sure you were alright." With an inquisitive lilt, he added, "…you did ask for my help, right?"
Kayla tried to recall what she was thinking before drifting off, and gave a tiny nod, "Y-yeah, I-"
"Well then, let's talk", he said in a lighter tone. With both hands, he gently pushed her shoulders; motioning her to sit down. With a bit of hesitation, she did just that…what she was sitting on, she hadn't the slightest clue. But before she could question it, she felt him sit beside her with a huff/sigh. A smack of the hands, and he asked, "Alright-what's eatin' ya'?"
Whatever shock the red head had before, dissipated, as she was more relieved to just be with him again, even in a dream. But the matter at hand came flooding back, and her head drooped as she began, solemnly, "Isn't it obvious?"
Her dad must've sensed her change in tone, for he put an arm around her and started softly, "Hey…I know you're upset, but-"
"But why?" she said a little louder; snapping in his general direction; her voice choked and teary, "Why did you leave now? I-I wasn't ready, I-"
His one hand shifted to her shoulder, and she felt him place his other hand on her heart as he leaned in, "Kay-no one's ever ready for this. But it's like Jazz said-take it one day at a time."
A moment of silence went by, during which the man still held her in a loving embrace. The teen contemplated what she was about to ask, but finding no way to mince words, she let out a sigh and replied in a pained tone, "Why did you have to die?"
Her father slowly let go of her as his voice became thoughtful, "Well…we all gotta' go sometime…and-when your time comes, you just hope you lived a good life…and I know I did. When one person dies, another is born…it's just part of nature…it's not bad to die." She chose to remain quiet, and there was an awkward pause before he continued, "It didn't hurt if that's what you're thinkin'." Her head went up a tad at how observant he was, and she could tell he was stretching as his voice strained a little, "Just got dark; felt kinda' sleepy, and well, I guess you know the rest…but no; no pain what so ever."
That confirmed it; this wasn't a dream…well, technically it was, and yet, not exactly. With that in mind, the girl's heart began to pound…oddly-in excitement, for the whole thing was both spooky and relieving some what. Her confidence starting to rise, she asked in a hesitant, but curious tone, "H-how is it…up there?"
Her dad chuckled at such a simple question, and she could tell he was shrugging as he pondered it, "Mmmm…pretty peaceful."
Kayla couldn't help but smile at his easy going attitude-that was Dad alright. With a deep breath, she sighed in relief; he was okay…but her moment of solace was short lived, when a new concern came to mind. With a twinge of worry, she muttered, "Y-…y-you're not-mad, are you?"
"For what? At dying?" he asked; his voice clearly displaying how vexed he was, "Heck no; not much you can do about that. And I know you'll be here with me eventually."
The teen shook her head. "N-no", she said, rather timidly, "…at me…"
"For what?" he inquired in a concerned tone.
The girl's shoulders noticeably slumped as she heaved a nervous sigh, "W-well, I…I've been hangin' with the Autobots for months now, and…they've really grown on me…became my…family…Jazz is like a-brother to me, and Optimus…" There was a pause as she brought her legs closer to her body; ending in a whisper, "…y-you-don't think I'm-you're-being…replaced…?"
The whole time she spoke, her father put an arm around her once again, and reassured her, "Aww, no, no-you're not betraying anyone. It's good you keep on loving others; it helps ease the pain." On a happier note, he added, "I like when you're with Jazz. I think a certain weight lifts when you're with him."
The red head's sightless eyes went wide in shock at his approval. To that, she turned in his direction again; her voice in complete awe, "Y-you don't care he's a robot?"
"Nah", he replied with an air of playfulness, "Blue, green; who cares? If he's protectin' ya', he's okay with me. It's your life."
The teen raised an eyebrow, "And…the rest of the gang?"
Her dad let loose a chuckle, "I'd say you're pretty lucky. From what I've seen, you won't meet a nobler bunch than them."
Her voice became hopeful, "So, I can stay?"
"I would", he said; matter of factly. She then felt him pat her hand and give it a squeeze as he explained, "All I ever want is for you to be happy. I like that you're trying to help the 'Bots; they'll need all the help they can get…you make them happy-give them something to look forward to." With a gentle swipe, he brushed her hair from her face and soothed in a loving tone, "You've made me very proud."
He never said that before…not aloud anyway…the moment was just too much for her, and she couldn't help but blush as a tear rolled down her cheek. A warm hand wiped her face, and she quickly, but softly, took his hand in hers and held it tight. But whatever remnence of a smile she had faded away when a twinge of fear seeped back in; knowing this wonderful dream wasn't going to last forever. Her voice hesitant, she mumbled, "I'm still scared…one way or another, you've always been able to help me…b-but now what?"
The man gave her hand a gentle rub as he said softly, "Well, I'm here, aren't I? I saw you needed help, but you're the one who got me here. I wouldn't have gone to fight if I didn't think you could survive, and look where you are…just be strong."
He said it like it was such a simple thing…but she'd never give up; not on him, or anyone. Her voice was still a tad weak, but she tried to speak with confidence, "I'll try…"
"Good", he replied in satisfaction; putting his hands on her shoulders, "There's just one thing you gotta' promise me."
The girl tilted her head up, "Anything…"
His tone quiet and caring, he lulled, "Please, try not to get so choked up about this-about me. Remember what Optimus said; I'm always gonna' be with you in here." He tapped her heart for emphasis, "If you ever need me, just think about me and I'll be there…you talk; I'll listen." His words insightful, she nodded in understanding, and he then gave her a playful nudge, "And start playin' that guitar again. I don't think Satchmo, Ray, and Jazz are takin' that too well."
To that, the teen couldn't help but chuckle; both at the man's words, and for this golden opportunity she'd been given. For the first time in a long while, her soul felt relieved…not only that, but lifted. All they both wanted was just to know if the other was okay…and in many respects, they both would be. Her heart overjoyed at just hearing him again, she gave a warm smile, "Thanks, Dad…"
With a soft sigh, her father kissed her on the forehead; pulling her into a loving hug as well. He then rubbed her back in a soft, soothing way as he hummed, "Aww, Kayla…"
Slowly, but surely, his voice began to echo.
"…Kayla…Kayla…"
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"…Kayla…hey, Kay…"
Was it just her, or did his voice sound a bit Southern? And his hand didn't feel like a hand anymore…more like…one giant finger…was it…could it…?
With her back still being rubbed, the now Cajun voice cooed softly, "Kayla…Kaaayla…?"
Her arms stretched out to touch the sheet of cool metal she was lying on-and reality started to creep in again. Her mind still a bit drowsy, she blearily rubbed her eyes and let out a long, tired yawn. Above barely a whisper, she muttered, upon recognizing the voice, "Jazz…?"
The saboteur chuckled softly, "Wake up, sleepy head…"
The girl unleashed a huge smile instantly; Jazz was awake! She began making a move to get up, but the mech scooped her into his grasp and cuddled her in a brotherly hug. She leaned into his now-repaired chest plate; attempting to return the gesture, making the Autobot hum a little laugh. The two remained that way a moment, before she stated in relief, "Thank God you're alive."
The Porsche smiled and patted her back; speaking with reassurance, "Aww, come on. Ya' didn't really think I was gonna' bite it, did ya'? It'll take more than one punch ta' get rid a' me."
The teen merely squeezed him tighter; praying his sentiment would hold true should anything like this happen again. Tilting her head up, but not letting go, she inquired, "How long've you been up?"
"Little while…" he said with a smirk as he gently stroked her long hair. But a tiny yawn crept in as he added with disappointment, "Still feel kinda' out of it though-doc' says I'm gonna' be birth-ridden a few days."
Well, that revealed another thing, to which she asked, "So, Ratchet's up too?"
The saboteur nodded, "Yep…but he did take ya' advice and took a little snooze." The red head smiled a bit brighter; flattered that the ambulance actually listened to her. But she soon heard a burst of barely-contained giggles escape her friend as he went on; his voice hushed, "Musta' did him some good, 'cause I haven't heard him cuss out anyone yet."
From an adjoining room, the medic's voice snapped, "I heard that!"
The musical duo let out a chorus of laughter in response. The cheerful moment lasted a good minute or two, during which the girl's chuckles died down upon remembering just who had awoken first. The mech must've noticed, for he too, became quiet and looked on at her with concern. After an awkward pause, she finally stated, quite timidly, "Um…I'm sorry I fell asleep."
Jazz's answer was to cuddle her more; speaking in a calm tone, "Aww, dat's alright; Ratch told me when ya' came." His voice then became a bit bewildered as he asked, "…so all dat' time, ya' stayed?"
To that, Kayla smiled; feeling the whole deja' vu. To quote her friend, she ran a hand across his chest plate and lulled, "I wouldn't leave ya'…"
A tear of optic fluid nearly ran down the 'Bot's face as he brought her closer; appreciating her spark-warming concern for him. Nobody had ever done that for him before. But a peculiar observation of his soon came to mind, and he tilted his head in curiosity, "I saw ya' nappin' fer' a while der'…heard ya' mumblin' all kinds a' things…what were you dreamin' 'bout?"
Suddenly, the red head's face went flat and serious, as she considered what she just went through…how in the world was she to even begin to tell him what happened? Part of her was still trying to make sense of it all…or, maybe it was better if she didn't ask. There was a long pause before she sighed, "Let's just say a lot of things on my mind were put to rest."
The mech was left to wonder what she meant exactly, but given the events of the past month, he decided not to question it. Instead, he merely raised a non-existent brow, but held a grin, "Fair 'nough." He then leaned in closer; scrutinizing the far away look in her pale blue eyes. To that, he asked gently, "Hey…everythin' okay?"
A moment of silence went by, during which the teen thought over her…interesting dream. But with it still fresh in her head, she had no problem giving a tiny smile and practically whispering, "I think it will be…" The Porsche was quick to notice the hopeful lilt to her voice, and it made his spark skip-finally, it seemed things were getting back on track again. But he was pulled from his thoughts when his friend let loose a huff, "So…you said you're gonna' be trapped here a few days?"
Not expecting the topic change, it took a second before he answered, " 'Fraid so."
The girl thought a moment, before her unseeing eyes twinkled with a small, but new found delight. Tilting her head in his direction, she smiled, "Well…I'll just have to get my guitar then."
The saboteur stared for a long beat, only to sport the broadest grin imaginable…whatever happened to her in the land of nod, it definitely sparked something good in her…she hadn't played her prized instrument in a long time. Another sign, perhaps? Well…better not look the gift horse in the mouth. With all sincerity, he smirked, "I'd like 'dat-thanks."
To that, the girl nodded; a thoughtful look appearing, "I'll be back in a little bit then…now that I think of it, there's just one thing I gotta' do first."
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Sideswipe gave a yawn and a stretch as he made his way to his quarters. After being on patrol all day, he couldn't wait to curl up on his recharge birth and sleep away the aches and pains. At least with his brother gone on the night shift, it ensured a long, peaceful nap. Of course he enjoyed his twin's company very much, but even pranksters needed a night off.
But upon reaching the automatic doors to his room, he came across a peculiar thing. A large piece of paper had been taped to the door lock on the adjoining wall…a-note of some kind, he deduced, as he tore it off for closer inspection. Whoever it was, they must've put it on the lock to make sure he read it…well, better not disappoint them.
The "letter", if you will, was made up of but one, typed sentence…a sentence that made the Lamborghini break out in a mischievous smile.
Sides,
Sunny's carwash stall first thing tomorrow; I'll bring the marbles-you bring the whipped cream.
Kayla
The teenage musician was back.
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AN: Well...as far back as "Guitar Hero", I gave a few hints about Kayla's dad, but told you guys I couldn't shed any light on his character until the sequel...and the time has finally come.
Okay...in the "Guitar Hero" story, I originally had her father already be dead, and at the time of the story's unfolding, this was a fairly recent occurance. With that, there was a little side story going where she was still kinda' dealing with the death, and how making new friends with the Autobots would give her a new family of sorts. I ALMOST wrote it in, but then took another look at the story already in progress, and found that between her and Jazz's story, the Decepticons' part in the story, and the stuff going on with the Magna Ray, I realized this extra side plot would be nothing but a waste. So, at the last second, I changed it so her dad was alive, but just off doing his military stuff, and would save the loss for the sequel.
When it came time to DO the sequel, I was originally going to write a chapter where her dad came home on shore leave and found out about what happened in "Guitar Hero", and basically Kayla introducing him to the 'Bots and getting his feelings on the whole situation. But, for some odd reason, for the life of me, I just COULDN'T figure out how to do it. I literally went down over a dozen different story angles; all of them having the dialouge and exposition be either too corny, too predictable, too unrealistic, or all of the above. So, with it constantly not turning out the way I liked, I ended up scrapping the whole chapter.
But that left me with a serious problem: When it comes to killing off a character, you HAVE to introduce them first. You CAN'T kill them right off the bat, or else you don't feel anything. So, the whole point of this "Dad chapter" would, secretly, be to get you to care about him, so, later on, it's painful when he dies. But now, with this missing chapter, how do you gain the audience's sympathy?
After giving it much thought, I finally decided, to make up for the missing chapter, I'd mention her dad whenever possible; basically to ram the idea home that this man has made a very deep impact on this girl's life. (And also to both excite and trick the audience into thinking he's coming home.)
So, with all that rambling said, I find it very cool and ironic that I finally got the "Dad chapter" that I wanted...but it happens AFTER he dies. I guess some things find a way of working out after all.
And one more thing; when you're dealing with the dead and subjects like the Matrix of Leadership, you're bound to have some religious themes come with you. Of course, I have NO clue what it's like to die, or what Heaven looks like, or things like that, but I find it intriquing to talk about, none the less. But, I'm NOT about to get in a religious debate with you guys, okay? I respect what YOU believe in, so please do likewise. But also realize that IT'S JUST A STORY! Okay?