Nightshade had wanted to sleep for the rest of the night, but each time they tried to fall asleep, they only fell into the nightmare.

The next day was a blur. Nightshade was exhausted. Their head ached from tiredness.

Worst of all, the Terrans were stuck in the dugout for hours due to GHOST's increased surveillance.

Robby and Mo finally visited in the evening, which was more than welcome. Unfortunately Nightshade's exhaustion prevented them from properly enjoying their family's company.

However something caught their attention on the cameras.

It was the unmistakable alt-mode of Optimus Prime.

The Terrans, along with Robbie and Mo all left the dugout to greet the Autobot leader.

Nightshade stumbled out last, locking it as Optimus transformed out of his alt-mode.

"Hello Terrans, and Malto kids, good to see you again. I hope you are doing well" He said in his familiar polite tone.

"Yes we are! Thanks! And you, Optimus?"Hashtag responded for the whole group, in an equally friendly manner.

"I am doing well myself, thank you, Hashtag." Optimus responded. "I am glad to see all of you, but i am specifically here to talk to Nightshade."

Nightshade perked up upon hearing their name. "Huh? Me? I'd be honored, Optimus." Nightshade responded in a surprised voice.

Nightshade sat down, opposite of the Autobot leader.

"So, how do you feel?" Optimus asked in a gentle tone.

"Exhausted. I couldn't sleep last night." Nightshade replied honestly.

"I meant about… your run in with mandroid. And the aftermath." He clarified.

"Oh." Nightshade sighed "Im dealing with it as I go on." They replied. "How much did Megatron already tell you?" They proceeded to Rs ask.

"Everything he knew." Optimus admitted. "You possess a very strong spark and a very strong will. You're stronger than you know."

Nightshade smiled. "Thank you, sir. That means a lot coming from you."

Nightshade paused, before speaking again. "How can I best protect my family and myself?" They asked.

"By staying safe and secured. I know you want to help, but this is a battle too dangerous for you and your siblings. There is no shame in that." Optimus said with the same kindness.

Nightshade nodded softly.

"Megatron also told me about the plan you devised for both Cybertronian factions to work together to stop GHOST and Mandroid." Optimus said in a solemn tone. "I fear that negotiations will fail. Even if both factions want the same thing. Many Decepticons likely would refuse to team up with Autobots, and vice versa. There is great contempt among both sides. I'm sorry, young one." Optimus apologised.

"I understand sir, thank you for telling me." Nightshade said quietly, turning away. They returned to the dugout in silence. Their siblings tried to comfort them, but Nightshade just walked on by. They needed to be alone for a while.