Therapy continued for a few weeks. The servo was becoming stronger every day, and Magnus was already capable of wielding weapons. But transforming it into a weapon was still out of the question, and Magnus was becoming frustrated.
"You sustained incredible damage, Commander", Ratchet explained, rather impatiently. "And while you are healing much faster than I anticipated, this wasn't miracle surgery. I had to build you a complete new servo. It's obviously different from your original, and it will take time for your body to adjust. And if you were to re-injury it, I'm not sure I'll be able to repair it again. So please, continue your therapy without complaining!"
"I'll be in my ship," Magnus said gruffly, and headed out into the night.
Ratchet said. "I don't have patience for patients."
"He's getting antsy, Doc. He knows the Autobots are short-handed, no pun intended."
"I suppose you think you are funny. Your sense of humor leaves a lot to be desired," he scowled.
"Oh, cmon, Doc, lighten up. Besides, I have a idea: Let him go on patrols. He'll be fine. It'll get him out of the base and get a chance to work out the bugs in non-battle scenarios. What do you say?"
"I don't know, Kerr-"
"Actually, I think it's an excellent idea." Optimus walked into the room and stood at Ratchet's table. "I understand your caution, old friend. But I definitely think that the Commander is suffering this way. He seemed to be encouraged by his earlier progress, but now he's merely frustrated. A patrol or two can't hurt."
"Very well," sighed Ratchet. "I'll tell him tomorrow."
"How about I tell him right now?", Kerri said, excitedly. She was out the door and headed to Magnus' ship before Ratchet could offer any objection.
"Those two…"
"Are quite the pair," said Prime.
"So, you've noticed it as well?"
"They certainly appear to enjoy each other's company. I've known the Commander for millennia and I've never seen him relaxed like he is with her."
Ratchet chuckled. "I blame myself. I pushed them into this. I just hope I didn't create a monster."
"No, old friend. I think you've perhaps created something…wonderful."