Chapter 14: The Return

It was almost three in the morning when the rig passed Buckeye. They were only forty five minutes away from Phoenix…forty miles away from the fight that would ultimately change Cole, Kira and Melody's lives forever.

Sitting awake, Bulkhead looked over at Optimus. "So what's the plan once we get back?"

Tightening his grip on the wheel, Optimus sighed softly. "Once we reach Phoenix, the objective is to locate the space bridge vortex and pass back through into our dimension. Once the space bridge is secure, we will contact Ratchet for pickup."

Looking out the windshield at the dark road, Bulkhead groaned softly. "What about the space bridge? The Decepticons have the coordinates for this reality that we're in now. Who's to say Megatron won't come through and recruit the scum of this world to become Decepticons and fight for him?" Shaking his head, Bulkhead sighed. "Or worse, what if Megatron comes through looking for people who knew you to use against you as leverage?"

Turning his attention to Bulkhead for a brief moment, Optimus growled softly. "That is why we cannot allow Megatron to ever be capable of coming to this reality. Once we go through the space bridge…we will destroy it, forever erasing this dimension's location from the Decepticon data bank."

For a moment, Bulkhead couldn't help but fall silent as he turned to look at the kids sleeping in the back seat. Looking at Optimus, Bulkhead whispered. "What about your children? What will happen to them?"

Looking up in the rearview mirror, Optimus sighed gravely looking away. "The life you and I live Bulkhead is no place for them. All they know is this world. Everyone they know, their friends…family…they're all here."

Furrowing his brow slightly, Bulkhead's affect showed that of concern. "What are you going to do Optimus?"

Groaning softly, Optimus looked away, getting off the exit for Phoenix. "I'm taking them to the only place I can take them Bulkhead…as much as I may despise the idea, it's the only thing I can do."

…

Pulling into the higher class residential park of town, Optimus pulled into the driveway of a very familiar house, one that he would much rather not ever have to see again.

Shutting off the truck's engine, Optimus just sat there, staring at the house for the longest time.

Looking at Optimus, Bulkhead lowered his voice. "What's the matter Optimus?"

Shaking his head, Optimus groaned softly. "It is just that, I promised Jacklyn that I would protect her children from the likes of the woman who lives in this house…yet, in the end…I end up turning them over to her to keep them safe from an even greater threat."

Shaking his head, Bulkhead huffed. "I thought you told the kids that they were coming with?"

Continuing to look away, Optimus nodded. "Yes, but that was before the full gravity of the situation hit me."

Scowling slightly, Bulkhead continued to shake his head. "I don't know that I understand."

Turning his attention to Bulkhead, Optimus spoke slowly. "Bulkhead, I have no doubt in my mind that Megatron will find out if he does not already know that I have three little ones in my care. If he were to by any coincidence capture Cole, Kira or Melody, then he would not hesitate in using them as leverage against me. Or worse, he would not hesitate in killing them to show that he is merciless by nature to his followers. By taking the children with us, I am knowingly putting them in danger. As their guardian and father, I cannot allow that."

Looking past Optimus to the gate, Bulkhead was quiet for some time, then back to Optimus, Bulkhead could clearly see that this decision was hard for him too. He didn't want to do this…but he had no other choice. Clearing his throat, Bulkhead looked at the gates and raised his brows. "So who lives here anyway?"

Opening the driver's side door, Optimus slowly stepped out and huffed. "Jacklyn's mother…Caroline."

Shutting the door, Optimus pulled his jacket around him and proceeded forward.

Walking up to the gate, Optimus tried to push it open but it was sealed tight. Stepping back, a monitor suddenly came online and a man wearing a suit and sun glasses appeared on the street. "Can I help you sir?"

Speaking into the monitor, Optimus sighed. "I need to speak to Mrs. Caroline Helms immediately."

The man on the monitor huffed. "Sir, it is almost four thirty in the morning. Come back tomorrow and perhaps we can set up an appointment."

Growling, Optimus huffed. "I cannot wait. Then Caroline that Optimus Prime is here and that I will not leave until I speak with her."

The man on the screen huffed and started to speak when suddenly another man came on screen whispering something in his ear. Looking up the man shrugged with a sigh. "Very well, proceed up to the front door sir."

Just then, the gates opened.

Walking back to the truck, Optimus got in, started the engine and proceeded forward into the circle driveway. Stopping in front of the doors, Optimus paused.

Shutting the engine off again, Optimus looked at Bulkhead and sighed softly. "Stay here with the children until I return. I am going inside to talk to Caroline."

Nodding, Bulkhead said nothing as he watched Optimus get out of the truck and move up to the front door where Caroline was already waiting for him.

She was dressed in a dark purple, silk bathrobe and also wore a condescending smile. "I knew you'd eventually come running."

Stopping on the patio, Optimus scowled. "Can we take this conversation indoors?"

Shrugging casually, Caroline moved aside waving him in.

Shutting the door, Caroline glided across the floor quietly. Walking into the living room, Caroline gently sat down on a love seat, and gestured for Optimus to sit as well. "So, Optimus…what is it I can do for you this morning?"

Sitting, Optimus breathed softly. "When do you think you will be capable of taking Cole and Kira into your care?"

Looking up, Caroline smiled slowly…victoriously. "So…you actually decided to hand over custody to me huh? Apparently you are smart enough not to go up against me in court."

Growling Optimus huffed. "It was not about that Caroline. If circumstance were not what they currently are standing at, I would fight to the death for Cole and Kira." Ignoring the maid that walked in with a tray, Optimus scowled at Caroline. "However, I find myself in a predicament that renders me incapable of taking Cole, Kira or Melody with me."

Glancing up from drinking her tea, Caroline paused. "You are giving me custody of the baby as well? I'm shocked… what would make you think I want her? I told you, I'm only interested in Cole and Kira."

Nodding, Optimus groaned softly. "I know that…but being as how Cole, Kira and Melody are siblings…I cannot condone their separation."

Humming softly, Caroline looked down putting crème and sugar into her tea. Looking up, she smiled. "And just where is it that you are going that you cannot take them with you?"

Looking Optimus scoffed quietly. "That is none of your concern—." Looking at Caroline, Optimus growled. "Do you want custody of the children or not?"

Thinking for a moment, Caroline slowly put her cup down and folded one leg over the other. "Very well…I suppose I can take the baby as well. How soon until they come to stay with me?"

Rising Optimus huffed. "How about now?"

…

"Dad, what's going on?! Why are we at grandma's house? I thought we were going with you?"

Taking the bags out of the truck and setting them on the patio for the help to take inside, Optimus sighed and said nothing.

Grabbing Optimus by the arm, Cole made Optimus stop. "Dad, what is going on?!"

Looking at Cole, Optimus cringed continuing to say nothing. Cole watched him with mixed feelings of horror and confusion. Why did Optimus look like he was inches away from breaking down into tears?

Taking the bags from Optimus' hands, and throwing them down, Cole bellowed. "Dad answer me! Why are you doing this?!"

Kneeling, Optimus looked Cole over. Then slowly he rested his hands on his shoulders and groaned softly. "Cole…I know I said I was taking you and your sisters with me. But some things have happened, and I no longer think it's safe for you to be with me…or even associated with me. If you were to come with me, you and your sisters would be in grave danger." Gently caressing Cole's head, Optimus purred softly. "I cannot allow any harm to come to any one of you."

Walking out of the house with Melody in her arms, and Kira standing beside her, Caroline watched.

Shaking his head slowly, Cole's eyes started to moisten. "Dad…I-I don't…u-understand."

Running his fingers through Cole's soft, warm hair, Optimus spoke gently. "Cole. I love you…and your sisters. All of you and your mother were by far the best thing to ever have happened to me. But, there is something I have to do…I have to finish what I helped start. And no matter how hard it is for me…I cannot take you with me. It's not safe. You have to stay here with your grandmother, so that I know you're safe."

Shaking his head slightly faster, tears started to fall from Cole's eyes. "Dad…no…"

Closing his eyes, Optimus couldn't bear to see the pain in Cole's. "I know it's hard to understand now, but it is better this way. You and sisters can stay close to your Aunts and Uncles and you won't ever have to face the threat of losing your lives."

Raising his voice, Cole breathed hard. "Dad…"

Looking at Cole, Optimus fought hard to keep his composure. "Cole, I want you to take good care of your sisters. Make sure they stay safe, and remember…that goodbyes…aren't forever."

Freezing, Cole looked at Optimus with tears and disbelief. He was quiet for several long minutes until finally he breathed out hard. "You're doing it too…"

Watching Cole, Optimus fell silent for a moment then furrowed his brows. "I'm sorry?"

Scowling, Cole suddenly started screaming in anger. "You're doing exactly what Clay did! You're abandoning us! You tell us that you'll come back, but you won't! You say you love us but you're lying! If you really loved us, you wouldn't be leaving!"

Cringing with a growl, Optimus took Cole by the arms and huffed, more hurt than angry. "Coleton I am not abandoning you!"

Screaming back Cole pulled away. "Yes you are! You're leaving us behind even after you promised us that we would never be alone! You promised that you would never leave us, no matter what! You promised us that you would always be there when we need you most!" Shaking his head faster now, Cole started wailing. Clinging to Optimus, Cole fell to his knees pleading and crying. "Dad please don't leave us! We need you! You're all we have left! Please….PLEASE don't leave us dad!"

Running down the steps, Kira threw herself against Optimus also crying hard. "Daddy, whatever we did wrong to make you want to leave, we're sorry! Please don't leave us daddy! We need you! "

Clutching both Cole and Kira in his arms, Optimus couldn't help but let himself sob softly. He didn't care if Bulkhead was standing there watching. These were his kids…and they thought he was abandoning them. Why couldn't they understand that he was doing this to protect them?

"Optimus."

Looking up, Optimus eyes met Caroline's who's for the first time ever that he's ever seen, were gentle and sincere.

Walking down the stairs, Caroline stood over them with baby Melody in her arms. Frowning she looked away and sighed. "Optimus…you can't do this to them."

Standing Optimus furrowed his brows. "I don't—."

Scowling Caroline huffed. "I can't let you leave without them." Turning away she continued to scowl. "From what I've seen, these children adore you…and in all honesty would be lost without you."

Looking back at Optimus she smirked playfully and huffed. "Don't get me wrong, I still don't like you. I despise you, but I am not so heartless that I can't see that these children truly need you…and I think you need them to." Handing Melody back to Optimus, she huffed playfully. "So, regrettably I am going to have to decline to your asking me to take them, for I cannot. SO…it looks like you are stuck with them."

Looking at Melody in his arms, and then at Caroline, Optimus was stunned. But slowly, within a few moments he smiled and bowed his head respectively. "Thank you, Caroline."

Huffing Caroline waved him off as she walked back to the house. "Oh please, save your gratitude for someone who needs it. Take your children and go before I have security turn on the sprinklers."

Chuckling, Optimus watched as Caroline disappeared into her home. Smiling he chuckled. "Thank you, Caroline."

Tugging at Optimus' pants Cole sighed. "Dad?"

Looking down, Optimus sighed. "Yes Cole?"

Leaning against Optimus Cole whispered. "We don't care what the dangers are, we know you'll protect us. And we'd rather die anyway than be separated from you."

Looking at Cole, Kira and Melody…Optimus sighed and even chuckled softly. Now he had no other choice but to take the children with. Though it was going to be dangerous, they still were going to stay together…because they were family, and family always stands together.

…

…

Peering around the corner, Optimus and Bulkhead both stayed quiet, watching a couple of vehicons standing guard near an old abandoned building somewhat close to the location both Optimus, Knockout and Bulkhead had emerged from.

Bulkhead and Optimus went back around the corner and stood by the rig. Looking at Optimus, Bulkhead groaned. "So, what's the plan?"

Looking over at Cole and Kira who were sitting on the hood watching, Optimus breathed softly looking at Bulkhead. "We have to take the warehouse by force."

Shrugging Bulkhead chuckled. "We have no idea how many vehicons are in there, and you just want to storm the joint?"

Looking at Bulkhead, Optimus raised a brow. "Do you have any better ideas?"

Thinking for a moment, Bulkhead shook his head smiling. "Not really…"

Sighing Optimus shook his head drawing a diagram of the plan in the dirt with a finger. "We need to create a distraction to draw the vehicons from the door out away from the building. Bulkhead, you and I will neutralize the enemies as well as any others within the immediate vancinity. Under no circumstance allow any vehicons to sound an alarm to our presence, otherwise this could become much more difficult. Knockout may be there, so keep your eyes open."

Gesturing to Cole and Kira with his thumb, Bulkhead sighed. "What about them?"

Turning to look at Cole and Kira, Optimus sighed. "Cole, once Bulkhead and I have secured the surrounding area, I will signal you to come forward with your sisters. You are to move ONLY when I call you. Do you understand?"

Slowly Cole nodded but said nothing. Kira perked up swinging her legs. "Daddy, should we bring our book bags with us?"

Smiling warmly Optimus shook his head. "No sweet heart. You are not going to need your book bag for where we are going."

Rubbing his head, Cole sighed. "Dad, I should carry Melody without her carrier so that I can run, shouldn't I?"

Nodding, Optimus smiled. "Yes you should Cole. Good thinking."

Smiling Cole looked away. Looking back at Bulkhead Optimus scoffed. "Now we just need a distraction to lure the cons out."

Sitting up suddenly, Cole beamed. "Dad, I think I know something that will work!"

Jumping down off the hood of the truck onto the front wheel well, then to the ground, Optimus scrambled into the cab of the truck grabbing his book bag. Grabbing a plastic grocery bag out, he shut the door and handed it to Optimus.

Looking at the bag, Optimus gazed up at Cole. "What is this?"

Shrugging Cole smiled. "A distraction."

Opening the bag, both Bulkhead and Optimus looked at each other and then back in the bag. Pulling out a large string of firecrackers, along with large percussion fireworks. Looking up suddenly, Optimus scowled at Cole.

Smiling sheepishly, Cole shrugged. "You said you needed a distraction."

Continuing to scowl, Optimus huffed. "Coleton James…why do you have firecrackers in your book bag?"

Smiling Cole said nothing. Sighing loudly, Optimus looked away, binding the string together into a large ball. "we'll talk about this later. Right now, we need to get moving. Cole, get Melody out of her carrier and wait for my signal. Bulkhead take up a defensive position on the left flank. The time to act is now."

Shaking his head scoffing, Bulkhead huffed in disbelief. "Where does a ten year old boy get fireworks?"

Looking back at Bulkhead, Optimus huffed. "I don't even want to know."

Moving away, with the fire crackers in his hand, Optimus ducked in and around trash cans and beat up cars into an alley just on the other side of the building. Putting the firecrackers and percussion fireworks that were bound together into a trash can, Optimus lit the fuse and fled.

Sitting next to Bulkhead on the other side of the street, and waited.

Just then a huge explosion of colorful fire and loud snaps and booms filled the alley way. Whistlers and hissers sprang out into the street showing a beautiful yet horrifying fiery extravaganza.

The vehicons that were standing guard suddenly left their posts to investigate. Moving in Bulkhead and Optimus blindsided the vehicons as well as a couple others that emerged to investigate. Throwing them down, Optimus and Bulkhead neutralized them quickly. None of them had a chance to sound an alarm.

Pulling the gun out of his jacket, Optimus disengaged the safety and quickly scanned the room for any more hostiles.

Bulkhead did the same and then nodded when both verified the cost was clear.

Looking back down the street to the corner Cole was watching from, Optimus waved him forward.

With Melody in his left arm, Cole grabbed Kira's hand and pulled her forward down the street into the warehouse beside Optimus.

Looking Cole, Kira and Melody over, Optimus again looked forward to make sure the coast was clear. Optimus signaled Bulkhead to take point.

Looking at Cole and Kira, Optimus whispered. "Stay close, stay down and stay quiet, alright?"

Both Cole and Kira nodded slowly with wide, concerned eyes. Moving forward, Optimus made sure that the kids staying behind him.

Bulkhead suddenly stopped putting his arm up.

Optimus pointed behind a crate and whispered. "Get behind the crate until I signal you to move forward."

Pulling Kira with him, Cole hid with Melody and Kira behind the crate and watched.

Moving up toward Bulkhead, Optimus watched.

From what they could see, at least twelve vehicons were standing in the room with Knockout. The space bridge vortex was open. Knockout was talking to a vehicon about something, but at the distance they were sitting, Bulkhead and Optimus couldn't quite make out what he was saying.

Looking at Optimus, Bulkhead whispered. "What do you want to do?"

Turning to look at Bulkhead, Optimus pulled his pistol up. "Just follow my lead."

Aiming high Optimus hit the main light on the ceiling causing the whole room to grow dark. The light would then flicker.

Charging forward, Optimus took out many of the vehicons standing there still trying to get a baring as what was going on. Jumping up, Bulkhead followed doing the same.

Watching, Knockout cringed and growled before running through the vortex.

Having seen Knockout run, Bulkhead turned to Optimus yelling his name.

Growling, Optimus yelled for Cole and Kira.

Upon emerging from their hiding place, Optimus quickly grabbed Kira and Melody from Cole. "we need to hurry, Knockout will surely close the vortex!"

Sprinting, Bulkhead stopped by the vortex.

Suddenly Cole stopped staring at it in awe and disbelief. Frozen in wonder.

Pointing to Cole, Bulkhead yelled. "Optimus!"

Looking, Optimus growled handing Kira and Melody to Bulkhead. "Take them through now!"

Bulkhead nodded doing just what he was told.

Running back Optimus swept Cole up into his arms suddenly pulling him out of his trance.

Watching, Optimus could see that Knockout must be disengaging the space bridge because the vortex was losing stability. It was closing.

Growling out loud, in a last attempt of desperation, Optimus threw himself with Cole in his arms through the space bridge vortex.

Then everything was silent…

…

Suddenly Optimus emerged on the other side; Optimus hit the ground hard, the sound of scraping metal filling the air as he slid to a stop.

Opening his eyes, Optimus looked around slowly.

They were underground…in a cavern.

Sitting up, Optimus looked behind him seeing the massive Decepticon space bridge towering behind them.

"Optimus, you okay?"

Looking up, Optimus was greeted by the familiar green and silver face of Bulkhead…as his Autobot self.

He was home.

Looking down at himself, he could see his red blue and silver armor staring back at him. But that wasn't all. Sitting in his arms was a small bot, much smaller than him that comprised of blue and orange armor. Looking up the small bot groaned rubbing it's head. "Ow, my head…dad?"

Looking up the little bot's eyes grew wide and it jumped slightly. "WOAH."

Smiling, Optimus chuckled. "Hello Cole."

Pointing up, Cole voice suddenly grew raspy and high pitched in disbelief. "Y-You weren't kidding! Y-You really are a robot!"

Smiling, Optimus lifted Cole's hand. "So are you Cole. So are you."

Looking at Optimus' and then his own, Cole froze, turning his hand over slowly, looking at every inch of his hand, slowly tracing up his arm to his chest and legs. He wasn't human any more. Optimus was telling the truth.

"Daddy! Daddy look!"

Looking up at the same time, Optimus and Cole saw a small pink and purple sparkling sprinting toward them. She stopped and turned around all the way to show Optimus every inch of her frame. "Daddy you were telling the truth! Look daddy, I'm a robot too!"

Watching Optimus put Cole down, Bulkhead chuckled. "."

Upon standing, Optimus slowly approached Bulkhead looking at Melody who was wide awake, looking at everything going on. She was no longer the tiny little human baby with dark brown fuzz on her head. Now, she was a tiny little Cybertronian with blue and purple armor.

Smiling, Optimus looked at Melody, letting her optics trace him.

For the longest time she just looked at him like he was an alien…which ironically he was. Chuckling, Optimus cooed. "What's the matter Melody? Do you not recognize me?"

Melody's optics suddenly grew wide and she squealed for joy reaching for Optimus.

She would recognize her own father's voice anywhere…no matter what he looked like.

Handing Melody off into Optimus' arms, Bulkhead sighed. "We better call Ratchet for pick-up before the Cons' come back with reinforcements."

"Who says we're not already here?"

Looking up suddenly, Optimus and Bulkhead tensed up seeing Knockout standing with several vehicon troopers.

Smiling, Knockout slowly started to walk forward. "Did you bots really think that you were just going to stroll through the Decepticon Space Bridge and then bridge out of here without some kind of skirmish?"

"Knockout—."

Cowering suddenly, Knockout slowly moved aside as a massive figure moved out of the shadows.

Smiling, the shadow chuckled blaring it's dark red optics. "It's been some time Optimus Prime. I honestly didn't think I would ever see you again."

Handing Melody back to Bulkhead, Optimus growled. "Megatron—."

Moving out of the shadows, Megatron grinned holding his hands up. "And what is this Optimus? You have brought with you younglings?" Tilting his head, Megatron chuckled mockingly. "Rumor has it that one of them is even your own offspring…"

Looking over his shoulder at Melody -as well as Cole and Kira who were hiding behind Bulkhead, Optimus grinded his dental plates looking back at Megatron.

Seeing the rise in Optimus, Megatron laughed turning to his soldiers. "So it is true! The great Optimus Prime has lowered himself—." Turning back to Optimus, Megatron hissed. "—to mating with a human. A disgusting, vile act if there ever was one."

Activating the sword on his arm right arm, Megatron growled, cracking his neck. "It's been a long time since you and I have crossed paths…and I have to wonder; does the mighty Optimus Prime still have what it takes to stand his ground?"

Looking at Bulkhead out of the corner of his eye, Optimus nodded, knowing well that Bulkhead would understand. Turning back to Megatron, Optimus snarled activating the shield over his face, as well as the sword on his right hand.

Laughing Megatron chuckled in sick delight, then growled loudly as he ran to flank Optimus. Moving as Megatron was in mid swing, Optimus struck Megatron in the side sending him crashing into the wall.

Suddenly the vehicons activated their guns aiming at Optimus. Grabbing Cole and Kira up into his arms with Melody, Bulkhead took a defensive position down beyond the main platform.

Growling, Megatron roared. "NO! Optimus is mine!"

Walking around Optimus, Megatron continued to chuckle. "Apparently after these long years, you still seem to have some fight in you." Turning to walk the other way, Megatron hissed. "Maybe when I'm finished with you, I'll show those half bred runts what happens when you get involved with a Prime."

Growling loudly, Optimus charged, slamming his blade into Megatron's. Laughing, Megatron continued to tease. "So! He does have a soft spot!" Slamming his foot into Optimus mid section, Optimus went sliding across the room into an adjacent wall.

Turning to the vehicon's Megatron roared. "Finish off the other Autobot and dispose of the younglings!"

Activating his gun, Bulkhead immediately started firing at the vehicons starting to approach!

Under the main platform, Cole held Melody and Kira who were both Kira in terror.

Turning around, Optimus was horrified by the sound of Kira and Melody's crys as well as at the sight of Bulkhead trying to hold them off.

"Kira! I'm coming—AH!"

Suddenly Optimus was struck hard from behind, sending him down. Looking up, Optimus huffed.

Pointing his blade at Optimus, Megatron grinned harshly. "You should have thought of their safety before you brought them here."

As he lifted his blade, a barrage of cover fire blasted Megatron, disorienting him long enough for Optimus to get up, and join.

Turning around, Optimus was relieved to see a ground bridge portal with Arcee, Bumblebee and Smokescreen holding it. Stopping in mid fire, Arcee smiled. "Good to see you again Prime."

Nodding Optimus smiled. "It is good to see you too Arcee."

Just then Decepticon fire barely missed Optimus. Turning, Optimus activated his guns and started to fire back.

Looking at Bulkhead, Optimus yelled. "Autobots, retreat into the ground bridge now!"

Looking at Cole, Bulkhead nudged him grabbing Kira and Melody. "Come on kid, it's time to go!"

Following Bulkhead, Cole watched as Optimus and the two other bots returned fire to the Decepticons.

Grabbing something from the small blue and pink bot standing next to Optimus, the yellow bot made a sprint for the space bridge attached the box and started to run for the ground bridge. Once he went through, the blue and pink bot, and the white blue and red bot followed.

Turning around, Optimus grabbed Cole into his arms and jumped through the ground bridge portal just before it closed.

With raging anger, Megatron roared throwing his fists in the air. How could he let Optimus get away?!

Then softly, a soft beeping sound started to emanate from the space bridge…then the beeping grew faster…and faster and faster until finally—.

The entire mountain side exploded in a fiery, blue, energon infused explosion, engulfing everything in smoke and ash.

Flying out of the smoke, Megatron's vehicular form blasted through the atmosphere cursing the name "Optimus Prime."

…

Watching from the ground bridge control, Ratchet watched as Arcee, Smokescreen and Bumblebee slowly walked through. Stopping they both turned back to the bridge and watched.

Looking in, Ratchet froze in awe and disbelief. Trotting out of the vortex, Bulkhead stopped holding two small younglings in his arms.

Bumblebee, Arcee, Smokescreen and Ratchet watched as he continued out of the bridge and stopped in mid stride. Looking at them, then at the little ones and then back at them, Bulkhead shrugged. "What?"

All three of them stayed quiet, looking at him in disbelief. Laughing sheepishly, Bulkhead put Kira down. "Don't look at me like that! They're not mine!"

Scoffing loudly Ratchet huffed. "Then whose are they?!"

Turning around, Bulkhead smiled. "They're his."

Watching; Arcee, Bumblebee, Smokescreen and Ratchet all felt sudden relief and joy as Optimus emerged from the ground bridge vortex, however Optimus wasn't alone…for in his arms was a small blue and orange youngling.

Setting Cole down, Optimus sighed looking at Ratchet. "Hello Ratchet. It is good to see you."

Looking at Optimus and then at the children, Ratchet scowled. "What is this?"

Shrugging, Optimus smiled. "These…are my children."

Looking at each other is disbelief and then at Optimus. Arcee and Bumblebee remained silent.

There was a long awkward silence until finally Ratchet erupted in a fit.

"Optimus Prime did you lose your fraggin mind?! Children?! Are you kidding me?! What did you do while you were in the dimension? You bring younglings here and expect me to—?!"

For a long time Ratchet continued on his rant and did not stop even to give his vocal processor a break.

Optimus just stood there blinking slowly as Ratchet paced back in forward in front of him.

Feeling a gentle tug at his leg armor, Optimus looked down seeing Kira staring at him with worried optics. Whispering, she cringed. "Daddy, is he always grumpy like this?"

Nodding Optimus smiled. "Sometimes…"

…

Almost an hour passed and Ratchet was still on his rant.

Optimus was sitting on the floor with Cole and Kira on either side of him with Melody in his lap. Optimus was quiet as Ratchet continued on and on and on and on…although Optimus was trying hard to ignore Ratchet and focus more on Melody who was investigating her new Cybertronian fingers as well as finding out how they taste.

Pulling her hand out of her mouth, Optimus looked up and sighed loudly. "Ratchet—."

Stopping in mid sentence, Ratchet huffed. "What?"

Handing Melody to Cole, Optimus stood approaching Ratchet. Smiling Optimus motioned to the hallway leading deeper into the base past the vaults. "Walk with me for a while old friend."

Furrowing his brows, Ratchet scowled…then sighed.

Cole watched as Optimus and the grumpy reddish-orange and white bot disappeared down the hallway.

Looking around, Cole couldn't believe everything that had happened today. Almost being turned over to his grandma, experienced an explosion, stormed an old warehouse, went through a space bridge vortex, became a robotic organism, witnessed an epic battle between his father and his father's arch enemy and then went through a ground bridge missing a massive explosion that probably blew apart a mountain.

Today has been one heck of a day.

"Cole?"

Turning, Cole's optics met Kira's. Sighing Cole huffed. "What?"

Stretching, Kira unfolded her legs letting them sit out in front of her. "What's going to happen to us?"

Looking away, Cole shrugged. "I don't know."

Watching the young bots talk, Arcee shook her head laughing in astonishment. " I still cannot believe that Optimus actually has three little ones."

Nodding slowly Bumblebee beeped in agreement.

Watching them as well, Bulkhead sighed. "Well, actually only one of them is Optimus' biological offspring. The two older ones, Cole and Kira are his deceased mate's offspring."

Looking at Bulkhead with wide optics, Arcee, Smokescreen and Bumblebee fell silent.

Cringing Bulkhead looked away smiling sheepishly. "I don't think I should have said that…"

Turning her head slightly, Arcee smirked. "Bulkhead…"

Sighing Bulkhead furrowed his brows. "It's really not my place to say."

Pointing at Bulkhead, Bumblebee whistled and beeped. Huffing Bulkhead scoffed. "Alright! Alright! If I understood correctly, Optimus' mate was in a previous relationship with another male that was terminated. Optimus then mated with her and got the little blue and purple female. Shortly after Melody was born, Optimus' mate died from internal bleeding. Optimus was given full guardianship of the two older ones and now…they refer to him as their sire."

Looking away, Arcee and Bumblebee fell silent. Looking at the three of them, Arcee sighed. "Poor little things."

Nodding Bulkhead sighed. "Those little ones have had their fair share of loss. That's why Optimus couldn't leave them behind. He's all they've got."

Shaking his head, Smokescreen huffed in disbelief. "The big guy is a sire now? Wow… never saw that coming…"

…

…

"O-Optimus…I'm sorry…I had no idea that you went through so much."

Smiling softly, Optimus gazed off into the setting sun over the Nevada desert. "The children have been through far more. I'm just relieved you activated the ground bridge before the Decepticons could inflict harm."

Leaning back against the rock wall, Ratchet huffed. "So this Jacklyn character…she must have been something special."

Nodding Optimus smiled. "She most defiantly was."

Sighing softly, Ratchet looked away. "But Optimus, you must know how dangerous it is having them here. With Megatron knowing of their existence, they will surely be targets for the Decepticons."

Nodding Optimus groaned softly. "I know that Ratchet. But I could not abandon them. "

Looking away, Ratchet groaned softly then stood up. Watching, Optimus raised a brow. "What are you doing?"

Rolling his shoulders, Ratchet scowled. "Well seeing as how we've got three new Autobots on base, I need to prepare my equipment for doing thorough diagnostic exams on each of them as well as you."

Watching him walk away, Optimus chuckled softly to himself. That was Ratchet for you.

Coming back into the main part the base, both Optimus and Ratchet paused seeing Arcee, Bulkhead, Smokescreen and Bumblebee sitting with Cole, Kira and Melody.

Looking up, Kira squealed and sprinted for Optimus. "Daddy! Daddy! Guess what I can do that Cole can't!"

Scooping Kira up into his arms, Optimus smiled. "What is it you can do that Cole apparently cannot?"

Smiling, Kira pointed to Bumblebee. " I know what Bumblebee is saying! He's really funny and smart and plays video games just like Cole!"

Shrugging Bumblebee beeped casually sitting back on his arms.

Bulkhead just chuckled, with Cole sitting in his lap. "Face it Bumblebee, I think you've got an admirer."

Looking at Optimus with wide optics, Bumblebee was met with a scowl. Cowering slightly, Bumblebee waved his hands frantically saying it wasn't like that at all.

Setting Kira back down, Optimus kneeled looking at Kira with a smile. "So you like Bumblebee, do you?"

Nodding Kira grinned brightly. "Ah-huh. And I really like Bulkhead and Arcee too! They're really nice!"

Continuing to smile, Optimus looked up at Bee, Smokescreen, Bulkhead and Arcee, then at Kira. "Well, I am very pleased that you're getting along so well with them."

Preparing his tools, Ratchet huffed. "Optimus, I'm ready for them."

Looking past Optimus to ratchet and then at Optimus, Kira's voice sudden grew quiet. "Daddy, what is the grumpy red and white robot talking about."

Scowling with a huff, Ratchet turned away. Looking at Kira, Optimus smiled sheepishly. "Ratchet needs to run a few scans on you, your brother and your little sister to make sure that you are all okay. It will only take a few minutes."

Letting her optics get wide, Kira sprinted back to Bumblebee diving into his lap. Watching with wide optics himself, Bumblebee suddenly jumped seeing Kira land back in his lap. Looking at Optimus Kira whined. "No daddy I don't wanna! Make Cole do it first!"

Looking up at Optimus and then at Kira, Cole suddenly touched the spot on his face plate where his nose would have been. "NOES GOES."

Touching her face quickly, Kira suddenly paused then stared up in horror and started to cry. Looking at Kira and then at Optimus and then back at Kira, Bumblebee held up his hands shaking his head. He didn't do anything and did not want to get in trouble.

Picking Kira up into his arms, Optimus spoke softly. "Kira, what is it? What's wrong?"

Looking up with lubricated optics, Kira pouted. "Daddy…"

Looking at Kira, Optimus smiled warmly. "Yes sweet spark?"

Wailing, Kira laid back in Optimus arms bawling. "I don't have a nose!"

Suddenly, Bulkhead, Arcee, Bumblebee and Cole busted out laughing uncontrollably. Staring at Kira with disbelief Optimus softened his glace and sighed chuckling. "Kira, you're not supposed to have a nose."

Sniffing, Kira looked up. "Really?"

Nodding Optimus smiled as he turned away walking toward Ratchet. "Yes."

Looking away in thought, Kira huffed. "Then how can we smell things?"

Smiling, Optimus gently set her down on a berth in the medical bay just a few yards away from the others. "With our olfactory sensors. It's not like a human nose exactly…but it works basically in the same way."

Looking up at Ratchet who was slowly approaching with his scanner prepped, Optimus smiled. "even ask Ratchet. He'd agree with me."

Turning his attention to Kira and Optimus Ratchet huffed and shrugged. "What…oh…yes, olfactory sensors."

Sitting next to Kira, Optimus gently slipped his hand around hers. Watching, Ratchet's every movement, Kira was very uneasy.

Scanning Kira's frame, Ratchet looked over the data.

Looking up at Optimus, Kira sighed in relief.

Walking over to watch, the others stayed quiet. Climbing up onto the berth, Cole sat next to Optimus with Melody in his arms. Taking Melody from Cole, Optimus waited.

Looking at the scans, Ratchet sighed softly turning to Optimus. "Her vitals check out as performing normally. Her spark pulse is good, and energon flow is good. Everything checks out."

Beaming, Kira jumped off the berth and paraded around triumphantly. "HA! I knew it wasn't going to be that bad! I knew I was fine!"

Leaning against the counter, Ratchet smirked evilly. "However, she could stand to use a small dose of slightly re-refined, processed energon in her system."

Pulling out a syringe of Autobot scale, he grinned. "It will only take a second."

With optics wide in horror, Kira screamed sprinting for the nearest hallway. Calling after Kira, Optimus sighed. "Kira it's all right Ratchet was just—."

Looking at Ratchet, Optimus scoffed. "Now she probably will not come out for several hours."

Shrugging, Ratchet turned around putting the syringe away. "I was just kidding."

Sighing, Optimus got up and followed in the direction Kira ran. "Kira, Ratchet was just kidding. He's not going to give you a shot. Come out!"

Watching Optimus leave, Cole suddenly looked up seeing Ratchet run a scan on him. Looking the scan over, Ratchet sighed softly then looked at Cole. "Looks like you check out as well. Are your vital signs are exactly where they should be for a youngling your age."

Looking up at ratchet, Cole sighed. "You're name is Ratchet, right?"

Laying Melody gently on the berth, Ratchet glanced up quickly then returned his attention to Melody. "Yes."

Rubbing his head, Cole shrugged. "Dad says you're a medic. Is that true?"

Nodding, Ratchet activated his scanner, and proceeded to scan Melody.

Pulling his legs up to his chest, Cole watched Ratchet with curiosity. "How long have you been a medic?"

Laughing in a huff, Ratchet looked at Cole for a moment before turning away to look over his findings from Melody's scan. "I've been a medic for a long time."

Rocking back and forth, Cole looked over at Bumblebee, Arcee and Bulkhead who were watching.

Watching Ratchet, Bulkhead sighed. "So how does the sparkling's scan check out Ratch'?"

Sighing, Ratchet turned away from the group shrugging. "Her vitals check out normal as well. All three sparklings look to be very healthy."

"NO NO NO NO NO! I DON'T WANT A SHOT!"

Holding Kira over his shoulder, Optimus slowly walked into the room gaining the attention of all those who were present.

Scoffing loudly, Optimus picked Kira up off of his shoulder and held her out in front of him. "Ratchet is not going to give you a shot. He merely said that jokingly."

Pouting, Kira looked over her shoulder at Ratchet scowling, then looked back at Optimus. "That's not a very funny joke."

Shaking his head, Optimus sighed. "No it was not."

Setting Kira down, Optimus slowly approached looking at Melody. "How is she Ratchet?"

Sighing, Ratchet gestured to the now half asleep sparkling. "Everything checks out Optimus. All three of your little ones are healthy."

Running up behind Optimus, Kira looked up at Ratchet and scowled sticking out her glossa.

Scowling back, Ratchet huffed, and then looked at Optimus. "The only thing left to do now if run a scan on your vitals to verify your running condition."

Running his scanner over Optimus, Ratchet verified that Optimus like the children was in adequate operation condition.

The remainder of the night was spent with Arcee showing Cole and Kira around the base as well as laying down the rules. Arcee was even asked by Optimus to show the children where his –now known as their— quarters were located.

Sitting on Optimus' berth, Cole sat watching, as Optimus wiped down, Kira's frame with a polishing cloth. "Dad, what's going to happen now?"

Looking up, Optimus sighed. "Well, tomorrow you will meet some of our human allies."

Shaking his head, Cole scoffed. "No dad, I mean…what's going to happen to us? Are we ever going to be able to return to the reality with Uncle John and Aunt Matilda? Will we ever see our friends again? Will we ever see anything from that reality ever again?"

Stopping in mid-wipe, Optimus looked at Cole with solemn optics and sighed. "Probably not Cole. The Decepticon space bridge was destroyed and with it, the coordinates for that dimension. We will probably never see that dimension ever again."

Looking away Cole fell quiet. Glancing up at Optimus' massive frame, Kira sighed. "That's okay."

Both looking at Kira, Optimus and Cole fell silent. Smiling Kira just shrugged. "Daddy, you said so yourself…as long as we are all together, we're home."

Smiling Optimus nodded. "I did say that, didn't I?"

Kira simply nodded with a smile. Putting the rag down, Optimus picked Kira up and placed her on a berth, Optimus temporarily pulled from the medical bay for Cole and Kira to use.

Ushering Cole to climb up beside Kira, Optimus grabbed a thermal tarp, and gently covered the two.

Tucking them in, Optimus gently kissed each of them on their forehead and purred. "I know today has been a very big day for both of you. A lot has happened, and your sparks are still probably beating wildly, but now it is time to rest."

Sitting up Cole furrowed his brows in confusion. "Dad, can I ask you a question?"

Sitting, on the edge of the berth, Optimus spoke warmly. "Of course Cole."

Looking down, Cole sighed. "Did Megatron really mean what he said? When he said that after he killed you…that he was going to kill us?"

Looking over at Cole, Kira suddenly fell quiet and then looked up at Optimus with the same inquiry.

Sighing, Optimus looked away frowning. "Yes Cole, if I would Megatron would have won, he probably would have killed you and your sisters."

Tilting her head, Kira cringed. "Even if we're just kids?"

Looking at the both of them, Optimus sighed nodding. "Yes." Shaking his head, Optimus smiled and chuckled. "But neither of you have to worry about Megatron, because he will never get the chance to hurt you."

Gently caressing their faces Optimus cooed softly as he laid Cole back down under the covers. "Not me, or any of the other Autobots would allow anything like that to ever happen. As long as you two stay in the base, you are safe."

Looking up Kira yawned. "Ratchet wouldn't…he's mean."

Chuckling, Optimus gently rested his forehead against Kira's and purred. "Oh yes he would. Ratchet is not so bad once you get to know him; he's actually one of my most trusted friends."

Sticking out her bottom lip, Kira huffed. "I still think he's grumpy."

Chuckling slightly louder, Optimus nodded. "Yes, he kind of is."

Standing, Optimus walked over to Melody's berth seeing that she was already sound asleep. Turning away, Optimus turned off the overhead lights of the room. "Good night my little ones…have pleasant dreams."

Shutting the large metal door, the room suddenly fell quiet.

Sighing, Cole laid back and released a long drawn out sigh.

"Cole?"

Grunting Cole acknowledged.

Sitting up Kira sighed. "Do you think daddy is happy to be back here?"

Shrugging, Cole kept his optics closed. "I guess so, why wouldn't he be?"

Shrugging herself, Kira laid down yawning. "I don't know…I was just wondering."

Rolling over, Cole groaned softly.

Sitting up again, Kira looked over at Cole seeing his optics were closed. "Cole?"

Groaning Cole moaned. "What Kira?"

Pulling her knees up to her chest, Kira sighed. "Do you think mommy can still see us from heaven, even where we are now?"

Rolling over to look at Kira, Cole was silent for a long time, thinking about the question.

Then, looking up, Cole smiled. "I'm certain mom can still see us from heaven…no matter where we go."

…

…