"They wouldn't dare point weapons at me," Techno declared confidently, her tone carrying a mix of assurance and playfulness. Skyquake glanced down at her, intrigued by her words. "Because you are their core femme?" he asked, his tone tinged with uncertainty. However, his attempt at understanding was met with a snort from Ironhide, who chimed in with his own perspective. "Nah, She will quite literally chuck tha blade o'hers at them," the weapons specialist interjected, his tone gruff but playful earning chuckles from the gathered Autobots. Techno shot Ironhide a playful glare, her lips quirking into a wry smile.
"Let's go, Sky... I kind of need to head back anyway... someone made me lose my lunch," Techno giggled, her laughter echoing in the air as Skyquake began apologizing for inadvertently causing her discomfort. His genuine concern elicited another round of laughter from her, his response more endearing than anything. With a playful groan, he strode forward, joining the others as they moved into the waiting vortex of the groundbridge.
Note:
I'm purposely skipping the Scraplet episode by having Techno NOT be there when it happens. It's a human kid centric episode meant to show the bots the kids have a purpose.
Welcome to chapter 10 of Anarchy
and so it continues…
The moment Skyquake and Techno stepped through the groundbridge, the entire base fell into an eerie silence, tension hanging in the air like a heavy cloud. The sudden appearance of a Decepticon warrior in their midst sent shockwaves through the Autobot ranks, triggering immediate defensive reactions. Weapons were brandished and optics locked onto the unexpected intruder.
However, the situation took an unexpected turn as their optics settled on Techno, perched confidently on Skyquake's massive hand. Her gaze radiated a mix of defiance and warning, daring anyone to make a hasty move. The bots found themselves frozen, caught between their instincts and the unusual sight before them.
Skyquake maintained his composed stance, his towering figure exuding an unexpected air of stillness amidst the tension that engulfed the room. His audacity to stand in the heart of the Autobot base, a Decepticon among their ranks, was a bold statement that challenged the preconceived notions of allegiance and loyalty.
In contrast, the Autobots stood frozen, optics flickering between Skyquake and Techno, uncertain of how to proceed. The unspoken challenge was met with an equal measure of curiosity and wariness, each bot carefully assessing the situation before making a move.
"Techno, Sweetspark… can you… get down from there? And move as far away as possible… that is a Decepticon," Bulkhead, who was still sporting a very noticeable wrench dent in his helm, spoke up, his concern evident. However, his request was met with an assertive response from Techno.
"Sorry, Bulk, but no…" Techno, who was standing in Skyquake's palm, promptly sat down, her actions making it clear that she had no intention of moving. The atmosphere in the room remained charged, each moment stretching as Autobots exchanged uncertain glances, caught between their ingrained distrust and the unexpected situation unfolding before them.
"Autobots… stand down," Optimus finally spoke up from his place, defusing the situation rather quickly. Prowl was about to speak, but the Autobot leader held up a hand. "Skyquake has… defected from the Decepticons… he is not an Autobot but a Neutral. Skyquake… for the next few weeks, you will be confined to the base. After that, you will be groundbridged to various locations for a few months before you will be permitted to have full access to our base… do you accept?"
"Do I need to stay in a… cell, or am I permitted a room?" Skyquake inquired, his tone revealing his preference for some level of comfort and autonomy during his confinement. The room held its collective breath as all eyes turned to Optimus, waiting for his decision.
"A room, our base is large enough to accommodate, even expand if needed… Blaster, if you do not mind escorting Skyquake to the nearest empty room… Skyquake, do not take this as you have free reign. You will be monitored and watched by Blaster," Optimus finished with a nod.
Skyquake hummed and nodded, his acceptance underscored by a sense of familiarity with such arrangements. "It is not something I am unused to doing, Soundwave watched everyone and everything he saw fit." His words held a tinge of resignation, as if reflecting on a life marked by surveillance and control.
With the Autobots gradually easing out of their defensive stances, the tension in the room began to subside, replaced by a cautious curiosity about the new dynamic that had emerged. Techno remained seated on Skyquake's palm, even though she knew that the bots wanted her out of it. The curious gazes of the Autobots were not lost on her, but she was determined to make her point through her actions.
Blaster nodded and gestured for Skyquake to follow him before walking down the hallway. "Technoblade…If I may ask…what do you like in Mechs…The Prime I understand but…the others?" Skyquake asked, a hint of genuine curiosity in his voice, making Blaster sputter and respond in rapid cybertronian. Techno chuckled at the indignant sound of his words, finding it amusing even if she didn't understand the language fully.
"Blaster… it's his musical tempo…even the way he walks looks like he is walking to a beat. Ironhide is his bravery, stubbornness, and what kind of girl am I if I didn't like the cannons. Cliffjumper was the first Autobot I met, and the audacity of that Mech still makes me laugh." Techno grinned, reminiscing about her initial encounter with the bold Autobot.
With a contented sigh, she flopped onto her back in Skyquake's hand, causing him to jump slightly at the unexpected movement. Techno continued, her voice relaxed and thoughtful, "Prowl is shy and incredibly smart, Ratchet is gruff but has a soft side, especially towards me. Sunstreaker and Sideswipe, they make me laugh and bring out the joy in me. I haven't spent much time alone with Bumblebee or Jazz yet, but I'm looking forward to it. Bulkhead, surprisingly, can be level-headed when the situation demands it. They all have qualities I love, and some quirks I could do without, but that's how relationships work, right? Accepting each other for who we are."
Skyquake nodded, genuinely intrigued by Techno's response. As they walked, Blaster finally stopped and opened a door, revealing a suitable room for Skyquake's temporary stay. "What are the qualities they all share?" he inquired, prompting Techno to reflect on the common attributes of her mech partners.
"Strength, compassion, kindness," she began, her voice carrying a touch of fondness. "They all have the ability to protect, defend and shield me from harm and readily do even when I don't want it. They always try their best to make me feel comfortable, love, and just smothered and pampered…they say its normal for a mech or mechs to pamper their femme so much." Techno glanced up at Skyquake from her relaxed position on his palm, her gaze revealing a mixture of warmth and playfulness.
"It is indeed normal, even more so among seekers like Skyquake here. Speaking of pampered…Skyquake—" Blaster interjected with a smile before switching to cybertronian with a mischievous smirk on his face making Techno very suspicious of what he was saying.
"Blaster-" Techno started only for Skyquake let out a low growl, followed by a resounding roar in cybertronian. With a swift motion, he shoved Blaster out of the room and firmly closed the door with his free hand..
Techno blinked, utterly taken aback by the sudden exchange that had just unfolded. "What just happened?" she wondered aloud, her perplexed expression turning to Skyquake in search of an explanation.
Skyquake's response was swift and passionate, his voice carrying a mix of frustration and protectiveness. "That filthy-minded mech! He was describing an intimate moment with you and the twin terrors in the wash-racks. I have just met you, and I do not see you engaging in such behavior as he implied!" Skyquake ranted, his agitation clear. However, his anger seemed to wane as he processed something, causing him to pause and look down at Techno with realization dawning in his optics.
"You... don't speak Cybertronian," Skyquake stated, his tone shifting from anger to disbelief. His realization seemed to fuel a new wave of outrage. "How dare those fools! To insult you in a language you cannot understand, taunting you with conversations you cannot follow! They will learn how to honor and respect a femme when I get my servos on them!" he exclaimed, his voice booming with righteous fury, causing Techno to flinch at the intensity.
"Skyquake, please, calm down. I assure you, I'm perfectly okay with this. Cybertronian is meant to be an impossible language for me to grasp, let alone speak fluently," Techno said, her tone soothing as she sat up in his palm. She continued with a gentle smile. "I do understand Cybertronian Binary, though. It's quite similar to Earth's own binary system. You Mechs are allowed to have your secrets and I won't pry unless I think you're specifically hiding whatever it is from me. And yes, you're right, you all know English already, it's one of the major languages I speak, So, no worries, alright?" Her words aimed to reassure Skyquake and dispel any lingering tension.
"I...should not have let my temper get the better of me in front of you, and I apologize for that," Skyquake offered in a more composed manner, his sincerity evident. Techno smiled back at him, trying to ease the tension, "No worries, Skyquake. It's all forgiven and forgotten."
As the conversation shifted, Skyquake's genuine curiosity came forth. "You spoke of knowing other Earth languages...what are they?" he inquired. Techno hesitated slightly, then responded, "Well, the major one is English. It's widely spoken across many countries. There's Spanish too, another major language. I also know bits and pieces of French and Italian, just enough to get by. And, um, I have some knowledge of made-up languages from old media," she added, hoping to steer the conversation away from the previous topic.
"...Made up languages?" Skyquake's head tilted in a rather endearing manner, prompting a smile from Techno. She then answered, "Yeah, um... I'm a huge nerd, into technology, space, video games... So when I watched movies or TV shows featuring aliens or tech stuff, I had to learn the languages they used. That led me to picking up some made-up languages from those shows."
Skyquake's interest in learning more about her hobbies encouraged him to ask, "Can you say something in one of these languages?" Techno considered his request and then chuckled, deciding to indulge his curiosity. "Sure, how about this one: 'Ni kar'tayli gar darasuum' It's from a science fiction movie. It means 'I will know you forever.'..." Techno blushed lightly, giving Skyquake a small smile.
"Interesting in the way the language flows…it is like English yet utterly foreign at the same time…wait…You are a sly femme Technoblade…" Skyquake chuckled, recognizing her small flirtatious remark. As he opened the door to the room, he continued, "But I believe you should go find dinner, as you humans call it. You will see me tomorrow."
"I actually have work tomorrow—nothing too demanding. I just need to be at home and on my computer when the sales team calls me for an update. So I won't be back tomorrow, at least not until later," Techno smiled up at the seeker before a playful idea crossed her mind. She gestured for him to bring her closer to his face, and though hesitantly, Skyquake complied. With a mischievous grin, Techno leaned in and planted a small kiss on his cheek before swiftly jumping down from his palm. "See you tomorrow, Sky!" She called back as she ran off, leaving Skyquake in stunned silence, his cheekplates faintly tinged with color.
Walking back into the atrium, Techno was met with a mix of expressions—shock, surprise, appreciation, and disapproval. The disapproving glances were not hard to discern, mainly coming from Ratchet and Prowl. Among the Autobots, Bumblebee, Arcee, and Bulkhead wore expressions of shock. Jazz, still relatively new to the situation, exhibited a blend of surprise and astonishment. Cliffjumper's expression seemed caught between surprise and shock. Blaster appeared rather distracted, perhaps intentionally so, while Optimus scolded him in cybertronian—a fact Techno discerned through Blaster's telltale lack of a poker face. Ironhide, Sunstreaker, and Sideswipe, having witnessed her interactions with Skyquake, seemed more accustomed to her antics.
Techno strolled confidently to the center of the room and posed her question openly, her mischievous demeanor evident. "Alright, who's going to give me a ride home?" The group of Autobots immediately launched into a spirited debate over who would have the privilege, prompting an exasperated sigh from her. "Enough! For the love of Primus, you're acting like children," she chastised. She directed her attention to Prowl. "Prowl, you mentioned you had created a schedule for the bots to take turns escorting me, right? It's time to put that schedule to use. The last one to take me home was Cliffjumper nearly a week ago. I'd appreciate getting home more frequently than that."
Prowl stepped forward, a datapad in hand, as he began to outline the newly established schedule. "Since you've been here for a little less than a week, we'll adopt a similar arrangement to your initial days. Cliffjumper drove you on your first day here, and Ironhide escorted you to the base. We'll follow this pattern for the schedule, ensuring your safety both ways. You'll travel with one mech to your home and return with the other. Is that clear?" Prowl's voice carried his signature precision.
"Today's escorts are Blaster and Bulkhead," Prowl continued, addressing the assembly. He then turned to Techno with a question, his gaze momentarily fixated on her feet. "Regarding Blaster, I've noticed you have a powerful computer at your home. Would it be feasible for Blaster to fulfill his monitoring duties and communication tasks from there?"
Techno responded nonchalantly, a casual shrug accompanying her words. "Sure thing, as long as he doesn't disrupt my own processes, he's welcome to use my setup."
Prowl acknowledged their roles and responsibilities, addressing the two mechs, "Bulkhead will provide transportation to your home, remaining in vehicle mode for added security. Meanwhile, Blaster will be in holoform, working from your computer to handle his duties. Our switch time is around 4 AM. I handle monitoring and communications from 4 AM to 4 PM, then we switch."
Prowl's confusion prompted him to ask about Techno's profession, "I believe you have a…sales job?" he inquired, seeking clarification.
Techno corrected the misconception, "Oh, no, I don't work in sales. I'm the Stock Manager for a manufacturer. My role involves ordering and sourcing specific supplies for a manufacturing warehouse. It's mainly computer-based work, and I seldom need to be physically present unless there's suspicion of theft."
Techno gave Blaster a look who gave her a sheepish one in return. "The call you overheard me talking about is with the sales team tomorrow. They provide me with information about sales trends, helping me adjust supply purchases accordingly based on demand."
Blaster, who responded acknowledging his unintentional eavesdropping. "Sorry…I honestly don't think any of us asked if you had a job…and we didn't look up your life," Blaster admitted, expressing his regret.
Techno reassured him, "It's fine, honestly. I don't pay too much attention to my job. It's just something to keep me occupied. The purchasing process is practically automated, so I barely need to intervene. Most of my tasks involve answering emails and attending weekly video calls. I don't even know much about what the warehouse produces," she explained, shrugging nonchalantly. To her, the job was inconsequential, as her life was primarily guided by higher forces, rendering her occupation less significant in the grand scheme of things.
"Are you ready to go then?" Blaster asked with a smile, playfully elbowing Bulkhead in the side, which caused Techno and the others to burst into laughter at the wrecker's sputtering response. "Yeah, though I'm curious about your altmode, Blaster," Techno inquired, genuinely intrigued by his unconventional appearance for a vehicle. With a chuckle, Blaster transformed into a retro-style boombox and accidentally fell, prompting Techno to catch him.
He had taken the form of a retro-style boombox, which fascinated her to no end. "Holy shit, Blaster, this is awesome. How is this possible?" Techno's excitement was evident as she held the boombox close, practically gleaming with fascination.
Blaster explained, "Not big on the technical stuff, but my T-cog is connected to my subspace, allowing me to do this. I also have a vehicle mode, but I don't use it nor really need it." His voice emanated from the speakers of the boombox, which made Techno laugh.
"Still, this is pretty cool, Blaster," she gushed, hugging the boombox to her chest. The metal beneath her hands warmed, and she knew that he was blushing, though she didn't mind. "Bulk, let's go. I need to get some food in me, and that requires me to cook. To cook, I need to buy groceries. So, let's go before the shops close," she stated, walking over to the now snickering Bulkhead, who was ready to transform for his two passengers.
Seated in the driver's position, Techno carefully placed Blaster in the passenger seat of Bulkhead's vehicle form, ensuring everything was secure before buckling up herself. As Bulkhead's engine roared to life, the vehicle began to move, leaving the atrium and the other autobots behind.
In the rearview mirror, she caught glimpses of smiles on the faces of her friends, mixed with a hint of disappointment. She knew they wanted to spend more time with her, but she had a job to keep up appearances with but she did have to make money somehow and she really couldn't rely on the bots to provide for her, did they even get an allowance from the goverment and if so how much and what did they spend it on?
Among the observers, Optimus remained silent, his optics focused on Techno as he observed her watching them in the rearview mirror. He recognized her strong sense of independence, a trait shared by many cybertronian femmes. While most femmes might rely more on their mech partners, he respected Techno's ability to stand on her own. Her autonomy was refreshing, and he felt reassured that she would navigate her path without needing constant oversight.
As they journeyed on the open road with about ten minutes left until they reached town, Techno expected a fun ride with Bulkhead and Blaster. However, their pleas and pestering took an unexpected turn as they begged her to sing something. Their combined pleas became more persistent, especially when they reminded her that she had sung for Skyquake. Despite her reluctance, Blaster and Bulkhead continued to urge her, making her sigh in exasperation.
"Blaster, please, I really don't want to embarrass myself," Techno protested, hoping to put an end to their persistent requests. Unfortunately, their begging persisted.
"Come on, Techno, just this once. I promise I won't ask again," Blaster pleaded from his seat, and Bulkhead joined in, making his own heartfelt request.
Techno's patience wore thin as both mechs continued their enthusiastic suggestions, each calling for a different style of singing. Their simultaneous requests for "cute" and "sexy" options amused her, but she decided to take charge of the situation. "Alright, alright! Let's settle this. Sexy or cute?" she quipped, hoping that their playful banter would lead to a decision. However, her attempt to provoke a friendly disagreement backfired when they both unexpectedly agreed on "sexy."
Her fingers tapped rhythmically on the armrest as she considered her options. With a determined resolve to fulfill their request, Techno's mind sifted through her mental playlist. The "sexy" style she had been challenged to perform led her to think of songs that fit the description. However, she quickly realized that her repertoire in this particular category was limited.
After a moment of contemplation, a mischievous grin crossed her lips. She decided to go with Rihanna's "S&M," aware that it would likely catch them off guard. She was pretty sure this song could make even Optimus glitch. She took a deep breath, her voice carrying the sultry and repetitive melody of the song's opening lines, embracing the challenge they had set forth. As the lyrics flowed from her lips, her performance exuded a playful confidence that matched the song's vibe.
Na-na-na, come on
Na-na-na, come on
Na-na-na-na-na, come on
Na-na-na, come on, come on, come on
Na-na-na-na-na, come on
Na-na-na, come on
Na-na-na-na-na, come on
Na-na-na, come on, come on, come on
Na-na-na-na, come on
As Techno continued to sing, she glanced to her right and noticed that Blaster had activated his holoform, his curious gaze fixed on her. With an inward sense of satisfaction, she realized she now had a captive audience for her impromptu performance. This observation only fueled her playful determination as she sang out the lyrics of the song.
Internally grinning at Blaster's evident interest, she suspected he might be recording her or at the very least keeping an open comm link to share her performance with others. However, she remained unfazed, channeling her confidence into the song and making the most of the unexpected opportunity to entertain her two companions.
Feels so good being bad (oh, oh, oh, oh, oh)
There's no way I'm turning back (oh, oh, oh, oh, oh)
Now the pain is for pleasure
'Cause nothing can measure (oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh)
Love is great, love is fine (oh, oh, oh, oh, oh)
Out the box, outta line (oh, oh, oh, oh, oh)
The affliction of the feeling leaves me wanting more
(Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh)
Blaster's holoform observed her with a quizzical head tilt, clearly puzzled by the lyrics and unfamiliar with the song she was singing. Undeterred by his confusion, Techno's grin only widened as she transitioned into the chorus, her voice carrying the rhythm and energy of the song.
'Cause I may be bad, but I'm perfectly good at it,
Sex in the air, I don't care, I love the smell of it
Sticks and stones may break my bones,
But chains and whips excite me
'Cause I may be bad, but I'm perfectly good at it,
Sex in the air, I don't care, I love the smell of it
Sticks and stones may break my bones,
But chains and whips excite me..
Na-na-na, come on, come on, come on
I like it, like it, come on, come on, come on
I like it, like it, come on, come on, come on
I like it, like it come on, come on, come on
I like it, like it
As Blaster's holoform turned bright red and abruptly disappeared, Techno couldn't help but burst into fits of uncontrollable laughter at his reaction. The unexpected and exaggerated response of the usually composed communications officer was simply too amusing for her to contain. Even Bulkhead, with his more rugged demeanor, found himself blushing and slightly taken aback by the song choice. Amid her laughter, Techno managed to gasp out, "Oh Primus, Blaster! I didn't think it would be that bad!"
Techno continued to laugh while reaching over and gently patting the boombox in the passenger seat which was very, very hot to the touch. However, she didn't let the heat bother her one bit. "Hey, you guys asked for something sexy…not my fault you mechs couldn't handle it," she teased playfully, her amusement clear in her tone.
Bulkhead, still blushing and slightly flustered, cleared his vocalizer and joined in the laughter. "Well, I've definitely learned my lesson. No more 'sexy' requests from me!"
Blaster's holoform suddenly reappeared, his cheeks still tinted with embarrassment. "Alright, alright, point taken," he said, his voice slightly strained. "I admit, I may not have been fully prepared for that, and I don't think any of the bots back at base were prepared either…I'm getting a personal link from Ratchet and I am going to answer gimme a min"
Blaster quickly answered the incoming personal link from Ratchet, leaving Techno to her giggles and imagination. As she thought about the potential reactions of the bots back at the base to her unexpected performance, her amusement grew. Each bot's personality played out in her mind, making her snicker and chuckle to herself.
She pictured the twins, Sunstreaker and Sideswipe, exchanging mischievous grins and high-fiving each other, probably finding her rendition of the song quite entertaining. Prowl and Bumblebee might have shared confused glances until Bumblebee pulled out his datapad to look up the lyrics, leading to an enlightening discussion between them or glitching. Ratchet might have been torn between mild to extreme exasperation, accustomed to dealing with unexpected situations.
Optimus's glitching was the funniest image in her mind, imagining his typically composed demeanor faltering for a moment before he regained his composure. Ironhide's enthusiastic "yeehaw" made her nearly laugh out loud, and Jazz was likely enjoying the whole scenario.
Just as she was lost in her amusing thoughts, Blaster returned to the conversation, a sheepish grin on his face. "Well, Ratchet didn't spare any words, that's for sure. He seemed a mix of horrified and amused."
Curiosity getting the better of her, "And the others?" Techno inquired, prompting Blaster to break into laughter before he began sharing the comical aftermath. "Prowl, ever the picture of composure, glitched out completely. Optimus, caught off guard, nearly glitched as I started broadcasting the song while he was sipping energon, resulting in quite the unexpected reaction. Jazz couldn't contain his laughter in the background, adding to the lively atmosphere. Bumblebee embraced the spirit of the moment and began dancing along, bringing a vibrant energy to the scene."
Blaster's grin grew wider as he elaborated, "Ironhide and Arcee, though slightly taken aback, managed to compose themselves, unlike Prime who had a rather dramatic choking moment. And then there were the twins—true to their nature—making a hasty retreat, presumably for some 'self-care,' if you catch my drift," Blaster added with a playful wiggle of his eyebrows, eliciting a snort of amusement from Techno.
The conversation took an intriguing turn as Techno recalled the presence of Skyquake during her impromptu performance. "And amidst the chaos, there was Skyquake, undergoing repairs under Ratchet's watchful care," Blaster continued, prompting Techno to reflect on the ex-Decepticon flier's reaction. "He was genuinely taken aback, unable to fathom that you would perform such a song. However, upon learning that humans have a plethora of similar songs in their repertoire, he gradually came to accept it as a part of human culture. In fact, he even expressed interest in exploring more music and asked me for song recommendations, which I found quite heartening. It seems Seekers have an affinity for music, much like your Earth songbirds."
Acknowledging her surroundings, Techno noticed that Bulkhead had pulled into an open store and extended an invitation to both Blaster and Bulkhead. "Want to join me, Blaster, Bulk?" she inquired, indicating the inviting entrance of the human store ahead.
Blaster's eagerness was palpable in his response, his voice exuding childlike enthusiasm, "A human store? Count me in, I'm definitely game for that!"
However, Bulkhead opted to remain inside the vehicle, offering a practical reason for his choice. "I'll stay put for now. It's not the best idea to activate my holoform in a crowded place like this," he reasoned, his voice resonating from his speakers as he powered down his engine and settled comfortably in the parking spot he had selected.
Curiosity piqued, Techno turned her attention back to Blaster, specifically his human designation. As he was about to step out of the vehicle, she posed a question that made him pause. "By the way, Blaster, what human name do you use for your holoform?"
Blaster's reaction was a mix of exasperation and amusement as he searched for his human alias. "Oh, right. Uh... Fowler has me registered as Blake... uh, Blake T, Aster? Seriously, what kind of name is that?!" Blaster exclaimed, a touch of incredulity lacing his voice as he divulged the somewhat unusual designation assigned to him by the government paperwork, which he had admittedly not taken the time to address himself.
Techno offered a reassuring perspective to the somewhat disheartened Blaster, recognizing an opportunity in his government-assigned human name. "Well, look at it this way. I can just call you Blaster, and if anyone asks, I'll say it's your nickname. People will accept it without questioning much," she suggested, her words aimed at comforting the communications officer who had been caught off guard by his rather unconventional human alias.
As the conversation concluded, Techno pivoted her attention back to the task at hand, expressing her need to tackle the shopping that had been pending due to her recent activities. "Now, come on. I've got some serious grocery shopping to do. Between my vacation and this impromptu excursion with you guys, I'm pretty sure all the food in my house has turned into a science experiment by now," she remarked with a hint of amusement. With that, she opened the door, stepping out of the vehicle, and Blaster eagerly followed suit.
Engaging in a shopping expedition alongside Blaster turned out to be an intriguing experience for Techno, though much of it involved her providing explanations about pricing, the distinctions between organic and non-organic products, and other intricacies of human grocery shopping. Blaster chimed in with his own insight, revealing a unique aspect of holoform existence: while holoforms could consume human food and experience its taste, they didn't actually derive nutrients from it. The shopping trip with Blaster was really uneventful in terms of excitement.
The journey back to Techno's home proceeded without much excitement, and even Bulkhead expressed his longing for more action. Techno, however, offered a reminder that their timing might be more eventful after sunset. She pointed out that street races were a common occurrence during the nighttime hours, hinting at a potential source of entertainment later on for Bulk while he would be sitting in the driveway.
Once they were back at Techno's house, Blaster formed a second Holoform who went off and began work while Techno embarked on the task of organizing her newly acquired groceries. Blaster, ever the curious and eager learner, accompanied her as she meticulously assigned specific spots for each item. Techno elucidated the logic behind refrigerating perishables like milk and reserving shelf space in the pantry for canned goods. She even took the time to introduce Blaster to the concept of cookies, though she had to gently dissuade him from indulging in them before the main meal.
As Techno proceeded to explain the art of cooking to Blaster, likening it to a scientific experiment that enhanced flavors through proper seasoning and cooking techniques, an idea struck her. She decided to involve Blaster directly in the cooking process, ensuring a hands-on experience. With a playful spirit, she secured an apron around his waist, signifying his newfound role as her sous-chef.
The cooking adventure with Blaster turned out to be a delightful mix of laughter and surprises. However, their collaboration took a humorous turn when Blaster inadvertently "injured" his holoform hand while chopping ingredients. With a theatrical disappearance and reappearance, he was back in one piece, much to Techno's amusement. In good spirits, she playfully revoked his sous-chef status, causing them both to share a chuckle over the incident.
Undeterred, they continued with their culinary endeavors, and Techno skillfully crafted a delectable chicken fettuccine adorned with a creamy white sauce. Blaster's enthusiastic reaction to the dish was nothing short of endearing, reminiscent of a child discovering new flavors. Little did Techno know that to cybertronians, energon lacked the nuanced tastes that humans enjoyed. In their world, it was only sweetened energon and certain treats that truly held distinct flavors.
As they indulged in the flavors of their carefully prepared meal, a sense of contentment enveloped Techno. Sharing this homemade dinner with Blaster brought her a simple, yet profound joy. Amid the warmth of the moment, a realization struck her like a bolt of lightning—this was a date. A date she had orchestrated herself, though the thought of it had initially eluded her. Chuckling softly at her own obliviousness, she couldn't help but marvel at how this casual evening had transformed into something more significant.
Breaking the pleasant silence, Techno turned her gaze to Blaster, a soft smile gracing her lips. "Thanks for this, Blaster," she expressed with genuine gratitude. Her words triggered a puzzled "Huh?" from the communications officer, his brows furrowed in confusion. Undeterred, she continued, her smile widening, "The date... I had a lot of fun."
Blaster's reaction was nothing short of priceless. His frame seemed to freeze, a flicker of realization crossing his features. In that moment, it was as if the truth had dawned upon both of them simultaneously—this casual, enjoyable evening had evolved into a genuine date. "It is getting late, even by date standards," Blaster remarked, a warm smile gracing his features. "I've also been multitasking with two holoforms active at the same time... so, if this is indeed a date, then allow me to escort you to your door."
Techno's laughter danced in the air as she happily linked her arm with his, embracing the role of a companion on this impromptu journey to her bedroom door. The camaraderie they shared was undeniable, a genuine connection that had been sparked by chance and nurtured through shared experiences.
As they reached her bedroom door, Blaster's playful attempt at being a gentleman drew more laughter from Techno. "I had a lovely night, Technoblade," he chimed, his voice laced with good-natured humor. Her own laughter echoed his sentiment, a testament to the genuine enjoyment she had experienced throughout the evening.
"Well, I had an awesome night, Blaster," Techno replied with a soft snicker. As Blaster offered a slight bow and gallantly kissed the back of her hand, she playfully rolled her eyes. "You are being so dumb right now," she teased, shaking her head affectionately. Then, she leaned in, closing the gap between them, and pressed a tender kiss to his lips—a sweet, lingering kiss that left him a bit bewildered.
"Night, Blaster. Pick your jaw up off the floor before you go," Techno playfully quipped, her laughter floating in the air like a comforting melody. With a final smile, she retreated into her room, the door closing behind her. The quiet solitude of her personal space enveloped her, a stark contrast to the whirlwind of events that had unfolded throughout the day.
Feeling the exhaustion settling in after a week away from her own bed, she shed her outer layers until only her underwear remained. Without further ado, she slipped beneath the covers and settled into the familiar embrace of her mattress. As her eyelids grew heavy, the events of the day began to fade, replaced by the soothing embrace of slumber. The world outside melted away, leaving her to enjoy the sweet release of rest.
~Snowy Planes~
"To answer your question, we are very screwed…not because of ExDee's fuck up but simply because I don't think Blade knows how to summon the mask…Im fucking surprised she hasn't figured out that she is quite literally super human. Yeah, she has a fear of being alone…and spiders but come on, I literally come out here and make her a mortal god and she doesn't do crazy shit like I would." The anarchy god huffed sitting down on his couch with a pout, puffing out his cheeks like a child. "She is literally the most powerful thing in this world and yet…she doesn't know it and wont experiment"
Dream in all of this was taped to the wall with a gag in his mouth to prevent him from talking, his mask crumbled on the floor in front of him. Philza was throwing apples at the tied up blond haired man lazily. "Blade is her own person Techno, she will figure things out when push comes to shove…plus we really aren't supposed to be interfering with her life, we are the observers in this. She will live, and she will complete her tasks and get to live her life with all the perks of being a mortal god…like me." Philza jerked a thumb into his chest making a point.
"Aren't you only a Demi-Deity because your Wife is a goddess of death?" Techno looked over at the birdman who had a sheepish look on his face before nodding.
.:A human goddess of death? You humans sure do have a lot of deities and gods:. Unicron mumbled picking up an apple and throwing it as hard as he could at the ceiling. Taped to the ceiling was XD who was cocooned in duct tape and taped to the ceiling by Techno and Philza. "Yeah, but there's the small gods and goddesses then there are deities like you and Primus. I am a god sure but I lack the…Power I guess you can say. I know how to maximize the usage of the power I do have, which is why I am always able to beat the two of you into submission. Don't get me wrong If you or Primus ever bothered to actually learn how to fight and utilize that great cosmic power you both would win hands down but because you don't…you're fucked"
.:Will you teach us to fight then?:. Primus genuinely asked, wanting to learn since fighting was all his creations really did and he ignored it for so long. "No way. If a Deity learns a skill from a god, that deity could be stripped of their title and given to the god as well as all domains and creations. I do not want to be in charge of any of your shit. Blade is enough for me" Techno grumbled picking up an apple and biting into it just once before chucking it at Dream who protested but really couldn't say anything.
.:Oh…I didn't know that…wait how do you know that?:. Primus asked, turning toward the anarchy god.
"I'm not telling…now let me deal with the homeless idiot" Techno said while walking towards Dream with more tape.
~TFPrime~
Startled awake, Techno's initial reaction was one of flailing panic, causing her to tumble off her bed with an abrupt gasp. The unexpected impact left her arm grazing against the sharp edge of the nightstand, resulting in a stinging slice that drew forth small droplets of blood. "Damn it…shit," she muttered under her breath, her frustration palpable.
With a grimace, she managed to sit up, her gaze fixed on the minor injury. Wasting no time, she pushed herself to her feet and made her way to the bathroom, her determination evident in her movements. Underneath the sink, she located a well-stocked first-aid kit and promptly opened it, her hands deftly sorting through its contents.
Selecting the necessary items, she worked swiftly to cleanse the wound and apply a bandage, her practiced motions revealing her experience with such situations. Though annoyed by the mishap, her actions conveyed a sense of self-sufficiency and determination to handle whatever challenges came her her wound properly attended to, Techno allowed herself a moment to inspect her handiwork, ensuring that the cut was appropriately cleaned and dressed. Satisfied with her efforts, she left the bathroom and returned to her main living area, where her closet awaited.
Moving with a practiced efficiency, she selected her attire for the day—a pair of black leggings paired with a long black tank top adorned with a music note emblem. To ward off any potential staring assholes, she added a plain black sweater to the ensemble. After swiftly donning her chosen clothes, she retrieved a hair tie and made her way back to the bathroom, her movements purposeful.
In front of the mirror, she worked on tidying up her hair, deftly gathering it into a high ponytail. Despite her proficiency, an irritated grumble escaped her lips—a testament to her annoyance at having to allocate time for her appearance. However, she knew the importance of maintaining a certain image, especially given the upcoming sales team meeting, which was notorious for its snobs. A few days earlier, a fleeting doubt had crept into her mind regarding her position in this new world. Yet, coincidentally, that very same day, a phone call from her previous employer back in her original world had reached her. It dawned on her that she still held her job—the one her father had secured for her during her high school days.
Sighing, she vacated her room and ventured into the kitchen, her primary goal being to savor her leftovers and swiftly engage in her work tasks for the upcoming week. Upon entering the kitchen, her attention was captivated by the sight of Blaster, who appeared half-dozing atop her kitchen table, a datapad resting in front of him. "You seem rather tired," she observed, causing the mech to startle and clumsily tumble off his seat, landing on the floor with a thud. "Techno! Hey, morning... you gave me quite a start," Blaster exclaimed, scrambling back to his feet. "Uh, you... you look nice today," he added with an awkward smile, eliciting a chuckle from her. "I have a meeting, hence the hair. I usually keep it in a low ponytail."
"Anyway, I'm here to grab my leftovers, and I'll bring them over to my desk. How did using my computer go?" she inquired as she headed towards the fridge, retrieving the container of leftovers and promptly placing it into the microwave. Blaster grinned, responding, "Your PC is seriously impressive. I peeked at what you had running, and I've got to say, I'm blown away. It's funny how people these days seem to have a fascination with retro stuff that's been around for ages, like those kids with their flip phones." He then pulled a comically disgusted expression, prompting her laughter.
"Earth's technology tends to cycle. While new innovations are constantly emerging, there's always an appreciation for the vintage aesthetics, which is why I've got all those old video game consoles. They're remakes of the originals, you know. Anyway, I'm heading to my computer. Don't stir up too much trouble, Blaster. I mean it," she playfully warned before carrying her meal and a fork with her. She walked down the hallway and entered her office, gently closing the door behind her.
~The Nemesis~
High above the clouds, skirting the edge of the Stratosphere and Mesosphere, the Decepticon warship floated lazily over the North American continent. Its imposing, darkened metal structure stood in stark contrast to the bright morning sunlight, creating an eerie juxtaposition.
Within the confines of the warship, the typical flurry of activity unfolded as drones moved along designated paths, repairing damaged equipment, and even the occasional drone clumsily stumbling. It was a strangely ordinary scene, at least for Decepticons. While some of the warriors were still in recharge due to the early hour, one figure remained ever vigilant.
Soundwave, the enigmatic communications officer of the Decepticons, stood before a bank of monitors. His single visor flickered as he observed a playback of events from a few days prior—specifically, the capture of a human agent and a notable femme. Though he refrained from verbalizing it, he couldn't help but feel a measure of disdain for the casual manner in which she was referred to as just a "femme." He knew her name well: Technoblade.
Technoblade, the one who had cannibalized the energon within one of his minicons, hurling the small mech into stasis lock. She was the same one who had severely dented the faceplates of another of his and shattered the hip joint of Ravage, all through a powerful punch to the side of the cybertronian cat. Soundwave couldn't muster anger; he understood that her actions were born from a mix of terror, anger, and necessity.
The entrance to the bridge monitoring room parted with a hiss, revealing the figure of a mech whom Soundwave begrudgingly tolerated within the chaos of the Decepticon ranks—Barricade. Once a proud member of the enforcers, Barricade had turned to the Decepticon cause for reasons known only to him. Soundwave remained aware of these motivations, yet had no inclination to share his understanding.
"Soundwave, I am not a medic. You need to find someone, anyone that is able to do something about Lord Megatron. I barely knew how to hook up those life support machines," Barricade cut straight to the point, a quality that Soundwave appreciated. The enforcer's directness spared them from the customary small talk and immediately addressed the pressing matter at hand.
With a silent nod, Soundwave turned his attention to the array of monitors before him and began inputting commands. Barricade moved closer, his optics fixated on the frozen frame displaying Technoblade just as she was poised to sink her fangs into Frenzy's neck. The little Decepticon, known for his erratic behavior, often accompanied Barricade on certain occasions.
"That's…that femme. Didn't that fragger Sideways kill her before being blown to bits?" Barricade's question held a tinge of guilt as he regarded the image. Soundwave comprehended the mix of regret and remorse in Barricade's words. The enforcer could have intervened, potentially saving Technoblade from Blackout's assault, but he hadn't.
A subtle, almost imperceptible shake of Soundwave's helm conveyed his acknowledgment of Barricade's sentiments. His dexterous fingers expertly manipulated the controls, bringing forth a new video feed, one recorded just a day ago. The footage showcased Optimus Prime striding purposefully toward the camera, accompanied by a content-looking Technoblade perched on his shoulder. Her sword rested comfortably against her frame, and there was no trace of distress, blood, or any hint of injury whatsoever.
"She's alive?!" Barricade's exclamation carried a mixture of astonishment and relief, his optics widening in disbelief. "The drones spent days cleaning up all the blood she managed to trail all over the Nemesis." The enforcer's incredulous remark illustrated the stark contrast between the image of Technoblade presented before him and the aftermath he had witnessed.
If Soundwave's demeanor allowed for it, he might have found amusement in Barricade's astounded expression as he stared at the frozen image of Technoblade perched confidently on Prime's shoulder, exuding an air of readiness for battle. However, levity was a luxury Soundwave seldom entertained. Throughout the exchange, his fingers deftly danced across the controls, carrying out a dual task of addressing Barricade's concerns while simultaneously locating the nearest Decepticon medic.
His efficient search yielded promising results. Two distinct blips appeared on the radar, drawing nearer to the warship with autonomous determination. The first blip indicated Knockout, a young and skilled Decepticon medic known for his expertise, and by his side, the formidable Breakdown, serving as both a bodyguard and assistant.
Soundwave recognized that their arrival was imminent, though their actual presence was expected to materialize within the span of a week. However, the urgency of Lord Megatron's condition necessitated that Knockout's assistance be secured sooner rather than later. Soundwave opened a direct line to the two decepticons enroute and turned to Barricade and indicated to the screen.
:Heeeello Decepticon Medic Knockout at your service: A resonant, sultry voice, dripping with a mix of charisma and self-assuredness, reverberated through the communication link, introducing itself as Decepticon Medic Knockout. The voice seemed to possess an almost enchanting quality, carrying a sense of authority and a hint of playfulness.
Barricade let out a resigned sigh before addressing the medic. "This is Decepticon Designated Barricade, currently aboard the Nemesis. Communications Officer Soundwave is present with me. We are aware of your anticipated arrival within a week. However, due to an urgent incident, your presence is required sooner. Consider this a high-priority command. Failure to arrive within the next three days will result in appropriate consequences." The message was delivered with an air of sternness, underscoring the severity of the situation and the immediate need for Knockout's expertise.
:Well…cant ignore a high-priority command now can I. I'll be there within two, always did like to speed. See you there~: The communication abruptly ended, leaving Barricade with a visibly exasperated expression. He couldn't help but feel a mix of annoyance and incredulity at Knockout's cavalier attitude, which seemed to align with the reputation that had preceded the medic from Velocitron, Cybertron's sister planet known for its obsession with speed.
Soundwave maintained his typical deadpan demeanor from behind the screen, his faceplate concealed as he observed the interaction. He, too, had heard both the positive and negative rumors surrounding Knockout, and the medic's response only served to intensify his irritation. Soundwave's focus shifted back to Barricade, his unyielding gaze causing a palpable unease to settle over the enforcer. The silent exchange seemed to convey more than words ever could—both mechs shared a mutual understanding of the impending challenges presented by Knockout's imminent arrival.
Without explanation, Soundwave turned away from Barricade and briskly began typing on the console, his movements swift and purposeful. The sudden shift in activity left Barricade perplexed, his confusion evident in his expression as he opened his mouth to voice his inquiry. However, before he could utter a single word, a video feed materialized on the screen before them.
The video feed unveiled Technoblade in the midst of a discussion with four other human men. Her demeanor exudes professionalism as her hair was neatly tied up, and her words resonated with an air of confidence. Soundwave and Barricade watched intently as Technoblade delved into the details of an order for a company, drawing parallels between the current order and a previous one from the previous week. Her engagement in this business conversation piqued the curiosity of both Soundwave and Barricade.
The intense focus of both Soundwave and Barricade allowed them to delve deeper into understanding Technoblade's professional prowess. As they observed her engaging in the business conversation, they found themselves drawn to different aspects of her presence. Barricade's gaze was fixated on her eyes, a reflection of her evolving emotions from defiance and anger to the current state of boredom—a natural response given the circumstances. In contrast, Soundwave's analytical observation honed in on her physical attributes, tracing the contours of her pale, smooth skin. His scrutiny revealed a faded scar on her chin, its pink and silvery hues hinting at its age, prompting his curiosity about the stories behind other scars she might bear.
Unbeknownst to them, time slipped away as they remained captivated by Technoblade's interactions and discussions with the human men. It wasn't until Technoblade herself reminded her clients that their time had exceeded the allotted slot and she would charge them for an hour of overtime that Soundwave and Barricade snapped back to the present. Glancing at the time, they realized it was already late afternoon and the object of their intense surveillance was logging off.
As Soundwave was about to disengage from the surveillance, his attention was snagged by the coarse and disrespectful remarks made by one of the men towards Technoblade, followed by an even more repulsive comment from another. A surge of indignation coursed through Soundwave's circuits, incensed by the audacity of these individuals to degrade and demean her in such a manner. The low growl emanating from Barricade beside him resonated with a shared sense of outrage, a stance firmly taken against any form of disrespect.
Turning his focus to Barricade, Soundwave's swift actions began manifesting on the screen of his visor, meticulously compiling a mission plan to address the offensive individuals. A menacing grin crept across Barricade's face as he eagerly accepted the challenge, "I can easily deal with those flashbags…give me the coordinates and it will be done" his tone laced with malevolence as he declared his readiness to mete out punishment. Soundwave swiftly shared the coordinates, the anticipation of retribution palpable in the air as they prepared to deliver a fitting response to those who dared tarnish Technoblade's honor.
As the clock neared 6 pm and Techno's meeting drew to a close, she made the decision to forgo her usual visit to the base for the day. Exiting her office, she made her way to the kitchen, where she found Blaster and Bulkhead both seated at the table, wearing expressions of intense concern, as though they were on the verge of feeling physically ill from their worry. "What's going on and why do you two look like you're going to puke?" Techno questioned with a puzzled look, her hair falling in a disheveled cascade of odd whips and curls around her.
"We... lost contact with the base around noon... and it only recently came back about two hours ago. There was an infestation of scraplets," Blaster explained, his voice tinged with unease. Both mechs visibly shivered at the mere mention of the word "scraplet."
"Scraplets eat metal... and they have a preference for living metal the most. So, some bots haven't been seriously harmed, according to Prowl's report, but they're conducting a thorough sweep of the base. It's advised that we stick with you until tomorrow," he continued, the concern evident in his words. "There were no serious injuries right?" She asked with worry herself.
Blaster's head shook reassuringly. "No, thankfully. The bots should be back to normal by tomorrow morning, or at least by the afternoon. But what's bothering me is the repairs I'll need to take care of," he whined, his frustration evident. Bulkhead nodded in agreement, understanding the impending task of fixing any damages that the scraplets might have caused.
Techno paused for a moment, considering how to shift their focus away from their worries. Then an idea struck her. "How about I show you guys my gaming setup and we can play a few games together?" she suggested, her eyes lighting up with excitement. Blaster perked up and nodded enthusiastically. "That sounds like a blast! What about you, Bulk?" he asked, turning to the massive wrecker. Bulkhead hesitated for a moment before giving a tentative nod. "Sure, sounds fun, I think."
"Video games are quite straightforward, at least the one I'm going to introduce you to," Techno grinned, leading them to her office where she revealed her setup with two smaller computers she used as backups. "Today, I'm going to show you both how to play Minecraft." She smiled and began to show them how to play, starting off on picking their name.
~The Snowy Planes~
~Small interlude~
"Whooooo Minecraft! Go kill some orphans Blade!" Techno screeched and cheered as his disciple began corrupting the two bots who were with her and learning about the mechanics of Minecraft.
Primus and Unicron were both very confused on why the anarchy god was celebrating like this. "Techno, I think she is letting them play in peaceful and not in any world server" Philza cut in trying his best not to laugh at the immediate disappointment that flooded the anarchy gods face.
"Nooo it can't be true she is my follower. She should be killing orphans and causing chaos and anarchy in minecraft!" he wailed out before turning picking up a splash potion of harming and throwing it at Dream who whimpered from all the cuts that were on his body now.
XD still taped to the ceiling wasn't in any better shape.
~TFPrime! The next day!~
After a night of intense gaming, Techno found herself waking up early, feeling a bit groggy. She reassured herself that she could sneak in a midday nap since her work for the week was already completed.
As she sat in the passenger seat of Bulkhead's vehicle, still yawning and stretching, Blaster chimed in from his Boombox form, a teasing tone in his voice, "Tired, Sweetspark?" With a grumble, Techno swatted at the front right speaker, causing a yelp from the bot who had playfully teased her.
"Hey, don't make me turn around and send you back to bed, Techno," Bulkhead chuckled in a teasing tone, poking fun at her sleepiness. She responded with another grumble, playfully threatening the bot, "Don't make me bite you."
Blaster joined in the banter with a chuckle, his voice taking on a mischievous tone, "Would love for you to bite me, Sweetspark…just not in the energon-draining kind." His innuendo-laden remark made her chuckle, imagining his holoform wiggling his eyebrows in a flirtatious manner.
"I don't get why my teeth fascinate you mechs…they are just sharp, and I constantly bite my own tongue," Techno remarked, giving a playful look to Bulkhead's holoform and then directing the same gaze at the boombox in her lap.
"It's exotic for us cybertronians. Our denta really only come in one shape, unless we ourselves modify them. I heard that Megatron modded his own all by himself. So your teeth are something we really don't see naturally," Blaster explained with a hint of fascination in his voice. Techno yawned again, making Blaster chuckle before he began playing a soft melody from his speakers. This continued for the rest of the ride to the base.
Upon arriving at the base, Techno looked around, not spotting anything out of the ordinary as she got out of Bulkhead's altmode, Blaster still in her hands. "Mind setting me down, Sweetspark? I've got to get to work," Blaster requested. Blushing lightly, Techno moved to an out-of-the-way spot and set him down. As she turned to walk back, she was suddenly scooped up by Blaster mid-transformation, causing her to squeal in surprise.
The sudden noise caught the attention of other bots, who rushed over with blasters and swords drawn, ready to defend against the potential threat. However, their tension quickly dissipated as they realized the source of the commotion was just Techno. They approached her, offering friendly greetings while she shot a playful glare at Blaster, who was wearing a smug grin on his face.
"As fun as it is messing with you, Sweetspark, I need to head out. Now, don't cause the other bots trouble, my sweet sparks melody," Blaster chuckled as Techno's blush deepened, and she looked away, trying to hide her embarrassment.
Blaster's departure left Techno with a mixture of irritation and bemusement. She growled at Blaster's retreating figure before turning her attention to Bumblebee. "Hiya BeeBee. What have you and Raf been up to?" she asked, hoping to avoid any more ridiculous nicknames.
:We mostly played with his race car and were hoping to play that retro racing game we found,: Bumblebee happily beeped, lifting Techno onto his shoulder. Since Bumblebee was smaller than the other bots, Techno was able to settle comfortably onto his shoulder without the risk of sliding off. It was a novel experience, getting a new perspective from up high.
Techno chuckled, patting Bumblebee's shoulder. "Sounds like a lot of fun! I'd love to watch you guys race later. And speaking of retro games, I think you might enjoy the one I introduced Bulkhead and Blaster to last night." With that, she settled in as Bumblebee began to move, heading toward where Raf and Jack were likely waiting.
:That retro block game? Raf and I were looking up videos and came across…well your name Techno. He was also called Technoblade but he didn't look like you…he was a blocky pig creature: Bumblebee began to talk about the video he watched before Techno silenced him with a gentle hand on his cheek. "Technoblade…the man in those videos…He is my namesake. He is where my name originated from" Techno admitted with a small blush as admitting you were named after a god who used to exist as a human a long time ago would probably end up with the human kids not believing her.
Bumblebee's optics widened in surprise, and his vocalizer made a soft noise of understanding. :Wow, that's pretty amazing. So, you're kind of named after a legendary figure, huh? That's so cool, Techno!:
Techno chuckled, feeling a warmth in her spark at Bumblebee's genuine excitement. "Yeah, I guess you could say that. But let's keep it our little secret, alright? No need to make a big deal out of it."
Bumblebee beeped in agreement, and they continued on their way, joining Raf and Jack who were already setting up for their gaming session. "Hey Techno, we were just about finished with the set up you wanna be first?" Jack called holding up one of the retro controllers "Nah, I'm more an observer in these types of games, have at it." Techno just waved nonchalantly for them to go ahead with their game.
After about an hour, a loud warning siren suddenly blared through the base, and Blaster came running from his monitor room into the atrium. "Optimus, Prowl. I have received a signal on a restricted band!" Blaster yelled as he slid up to the monitor in the atrium before continuing. "It's coming from a starship from within the solar system, and it's signaling Autobot. It has an Autobot Identification beacon."
Jack stepped up and asked a very good question, for a kid that is. "So there are other bots out there?" Arcee took point in answering her charge, "The masses scattered to the galaxies when Cybertron finally went dark, but cons have been known to bait traps with false beacons."
The atmosphere in the room grew tense as the Autobots exchanged glances, their optics reflecting a mix of hope and caution. Optimus Prime's deep voice resonated through the chamber, his words carrying a weight of wisdom and concern. "Prepare for all possibilities. Blaster, establish a secure link with the approaching starship."
Blaster nodded and opened a link before nodding to Optimus. "Unknown vessel, this is Autobot Outpost Omega One. Identify yourself." There was a brief moment of silence before a bit of static, and then the voice on the other end responded.
"I've had warmer welcomes from Decepticon combat brigades." The gruff voice on the other end retorted, prompting a snort of amusement from Techno. "Those words don't fragging mix, Decepticon and warm and welcome."
The voice on the other end chuckled. "You and I, femme, might get along." At this, Bulkhead unexpectedly chimed in, "Wheeljack?! You old con crusher! What are you doing all the way out here?"
"Bulkhead? That you? What's with all the security? And can I possibly get the name of that femme who spoke?" The newly named Wheeljack responded with a hint of mischief in his tone, his voice dipping an octave lower as if he were grinning on the other side of the communications link.
Bulkhead chuckled, grinning at his friend before looking down at Techno. She sighed, then took a deep breath before shouting, "If you want to fraggin' know my name, ask me yourself, you glitched slagger!"
Almost every Autobot quickly covered their audio receptors just in time, even Bulkhead, but Wheeljack apparently did not, because almost everyone heard him yelp from the comm. "Anyway, the rock we're on is crawling with cons. How soon can you get here and even the odds?" Bulkhead continued, stifling laughter at his friend's misfortune.
"Ouch! Femme, nice vocal processor you have there. Names Wheeljack, can I have your name?" Wheeljack chuckled weakly, obviously his audials were still ringing. "I'm Technoblade," Techno answered with a huff which she assumed he heard, given that Wheeljack began chuckling. "To answer your question, Bulk, I'll be there sometime today, It's the blue and green planet right?"
Optimus hummed with thought and spoke, "Wheeljack…I know of him by reputation only. Can you verify his voiceprint, Bulkhead?" Bulkhead turned and nodded enthusiastically. "He is 1,000% the real deal, Optimus."
Optimus then turned to the monitor before speaking again "We will send landing coordinates, Wheeljack. Safe journey." Bulkhead then chimed in with excitement "See you soon, buddy. I'll make sure you get a proper welcome."
Just before the link disconnected, Wheeljack threw in, "Would love my welcoming party to have Technoblade with you, Bulk. See ya!" and with that, the connection ended. Everyone turned their attention to Bulkhead, their expressions demanding an explanation. Arcee was the first to speak, teasingly saying, "So, who's the boyfriend?" This caused Techno to snort, and it led to an indignant response from Bulkhead.
"Jackie isn't my boyfriend. He's my friend, probably my best friend at this point. We were part of the same war unit, the Wreckers. And let me tell you, the Cons are gonna wish he never found us," Bulkhead explained, his tone carrying a mix of pride and anticipation.
Playing along with Arcee's teasing, Techno grinned and responded, "I thought I was your girlfriend, and now I find out you already had a boyfriend and I'm the side piece?" She adopted a playful glare, leaning forward slightly and placing a hand on her hip. "How dare you, Bulk? I thought we had a good thing going on." Her playful banter caused Arcee to almost burst out laughing, and even the Twins and Ironhide couldn't contain their laughter, which erupted into loud laughter.
Bulkhead began protesting and apologizing, which only made the situation more hilarious. Arcee joined in the fun, scooping up Techno and playfully petting her hair. "How dare you cheat on this lovely femme, Bulkhead. I mean, really, shame on you." Arcee then turned her attention to Techno with a mischievous grin. "I'll gladly take Bulkhead's spot in your collection of mechs, Techno, and I'll treat you the right way."
Amidst the laughter, Bulkhead finally stepped in and stole Techno from Arcee's grasp, holding her close to his chest plates while giving her an affectionate look. "No stealing Techno. She's mine," he declared playfully, and Techno couldn't help but laugh at the whole amusing exchange.
Optimus' voice cut through the amusement, a reminder of the seriousness of their situation. "Autobots, we must prepare in case the Decepticons are tracking his movements and planning to ambush Wheeljack at his landing zone." Techno listened attentively as Optimus continued, her amusement temporarily set aside. "Technoblade, while Wheeljack's request is voluntary, it's up to you if you wish to join the team in retrieving him."
Techno nodded in understanding, her determination clear. "No problem, Optimus. I'm up for joining the team, even if it's just to show Wheeljack that I'm not a Cybertronian. I can already imagine the look on his face," she quipped, prompting a subtle twitch of a smile on Optimus' usually solemn expression.
With a grin, Techno swiftly ascended the side of Bulkhead's arm and leapt onto Optimus' arm, climbing up to his shoulder. This action elicited more playful protests from the twins, Prowl, and Bumblebee, who were no doubt used to her energetic antics of leaping onto various surfaces. Ignoring their mock complaints, Techno stuck her tongue out at them, laughing in response.
Optimus managed to maintain his composed demeanor, although Ratchet, with his experienced observation, could detect a hint of amusement in their leader's optics. It was becoming increasingly evident that Optimus was forming a fondness for the spirited femme. While Ratchet couldn't ignore the potential challenges, he also recognized the positive aspects of this connection.
Perched comfortably on Optimus' shoulder, Techno observed with a mix of amusement and bewilderment as the Autobots scrambled to prepare for Wheeljack's arrival. The extent to which they were going to ensure his welcome was not lost on her, and even Skyquake found the situation slightly amusing, nearly breaking into laughter at the absurd lengths the bots were going through.
Amidst the collaboration between Optimus and Blaster on the monitors, Techno chimed in with a practical suggestion. "Why not use one of the many vast deserts Earth has to offer? If anyone sees anything there, they might dismiss it as a hallucination or a mirage." Her input prompted a pause in the discussion as both Autobots considered her idea. After a quick search, they found a suitable desert location in a matter of minutes.
"That was awesome Techno" Blaster was quick to commend her, expressing his admiration with a smile. Techno responded with a playful snort, "I've lived on Earth my whole life, Blaster. Learning about stuff like this is kind of necessary. I'd be willing to bet you know more about Cybertron than I do." This stunned Blaster a bit, never really understanding it in the way she pointed out.
Optimus acknowledged the gaps in their knowledge with a thoughtful nod. "We have much to learn about Earth—its culture, geography, topography, even its flora and fauna," he acknowledged, his words carrying the weight of his commitment to understanding their new home.
Techno responded with a warm smile, her hand gently resting on Optimus's cheek. "I'll teach you guys everything you need to know, and maybe even some things you want to learn," she offered generously. Optimus returned the smile and refocused his attention on the monitor, sending the coordinates to Wheeljack as he approached Earth.
The prospect of action excited Bulkhead, Bumblebee, Arcee, and the twins, who all eagerly rose to the occasion. Bumblebee, in particular, politely extended his hands for Techno, a bashful gesture that made her giggle at his adorable shyness in front of his boss. Playfully leaping from Optimus' shoulder onto Bumblebee's hand, Techno landed gracefully and waved back at Optimus, ready to follow Bumblebee as he headed toward the entrance of the groundbridge. The bridge emitted some quirky noises, prompting a comment from Ratchet who grumbled, "Blasted scraplets! The equipment hasn't been the same since the infestation."
Techno playfully turned to Bulkhead with a mischievous smirk, her eyes dancing with curiosity. "So, Bulk, what can I expect from Wheeljack? Endless flirting, innuendos, and a constant stream of jokes?" Her teasing elicited a slightly uncomfortable chuckle from Bulkhead, who rubbed the back of his helm, clearly trying to choose his words carefully so as not to offend Techno. "Uh, well... Wheeljack is... he's a bit like the Twins, but with a stronger focus on combat. It's hard to put into words for someone who hasn't really interacted with him. Ironhide might have a better grasp of his personality, but Wheeljack tends to connect more with those who share his... mindset."
"I suppose you could say his personality leans more towards a marine veteran than an army veteran," Techno mused, her casual response leaving the bots a bit puzzled, but they brushed it off as another quirk of human language.
As the groundbridge activated, the group and Techno, perched on Bumblebee's shoulder, made their way through. Techno still found the experience disorienting due to the swirling colors, but she kept her focus. Upon emerging on the other side, she was struck by the sight of the Decepticon drones in various states of disrepair, and her attention was immediately drawn to Wheeljack. Observing his movements, she couldn't help but notice that they seemed different from what she would expect from a skilled warrior like him.
Techno's keen observation skills kicked in, and she noticed that the slash markings on the destroyed drones were more consistent with sweeping cuts, while Wheeljack's current movements appeared more rigid. She considered the possibility that Wheeljack might have different combat styles with a sword, but her instincts told her something was off. She hesitated to voice her suspicions without concrete evidence, as baseless accusations wouldn't help anyone.
As Wheeljack finished dealing with the drones, he adopted an incredibly cocky tone that surprised even Techno, who was used to bots boasting. His words were delivered with an air of self-assuredness that even Cliffjumper hadn't matched. "Ever think I might need a hand here?" he smirked, striding forward confidently. His optics locked onto Techno, and she detected a fleeting moment of recognition and anger in his gaze before it returned to its usual state.
"What, and spoil your fun and miss out on the free show you gave?" Bulkhead laughed as he walked up to join them. Arcee, true to her snarky nature, chimed in while rolling her optics, "You missed one."
Wheeljack activated his cannon and swiftly shot the head off the lone remaining drone. "If this is all you got, the planet's in bigger trouble than I thought," he quipped. He then turned to Arcee and gave her a pointed look. "Your voice wasn't the one I heard over the comms before. What's the deal, Bulk? I thought Technoblade was meant to be part of my welcome party."
Techno maintained her cautious yet friendly demeanor as she waved from her perch on Bumblebee's shoulder, catching Wheeljack's attention. She noticed a spark of anger briefly flicker in his optics, but he managed to keep his voice neutral as he addressed her. "This tiny fleshbag is Technoblade? Was expecting a more formidable femme to be here," he remarked. The comment stung a bit, and Techno winced, feeling a twinge of hurt. She had become accustomed to being underestimated in her original world, but hearing such comments in this new context had a different impact.
"Come on, Jackie, that's my femme you're talking about," Bulkhead spoke up, his voice full of admiration and defense. "She's actually the core femme to most of the Autobots. She's sweet, kind, strong, and she has combat experience."
Wheeljack's skepticism remained palpable, and Techno sensed a challenging aura around him. However, it wasn't a physical challenge, as he would have likely voiced it openly due to his nature. Bulkhead's comparison of Wheeljack to the twins suggested that he would express his challenge directly. Instead, this seemed to be a mental challenge, but its nature remained elusive.
The Twins were far less tolerant of Wheeljack's comments compared to Bulkhead. They engaged in a heated exchange in Cybertronian, their tones filled with defiance and confrontation. "I'm just sayin', give me a pure-sparked femme any day instead of... what are they called? Humans," Wheeljack once again dismissed Techno, and the groundbridge activated, ready to take them back to the Autobot base.
Feeling more upset than she would have liked, Techno gracefully leaped off Bumblebee's shoulder and landed on the ground. She sprinted into the bridge, her emotions churning within her. The sharp comments from Wheeljack cut deeper than she expected, triggering a wave of vulnerability and an old sense of insecurity. It was a feeling she hadn't experienced in a long time, and it left her with the urge to retreat, to find a place to hide away and collect herself.
In a swift motion, Techno dashed through the groundbridge, tears already streaming down her face. She paid no heed to the calls of her name from the gathered Autobots, her only focus on escaping. She sprinted on, driven by a desperate need to find a secluded place where she could let her emotions flow freely, unchecked and uninterrupted.
Just as she was about to turn a corner, a sudden sensation overcame her. Her surroundings shifted, and a strange static filled the air. When the disorienting sensation passed, she found herself in a dimly lit room with red optics peering down at her. "Techno?" Skyquake's voice, gentle and concerned, reached her ears. She felt her body trembling as sobs escaped her, unable to be contained any longer.
Skyquake's massive arms enveloped her in a comforting embrace, pulling her against his bulky frame. His holoform activated, taking on a bot-like appearance, as he continued to hold her close. He spoke in a soothing, unfamiliar dialect of Cybertronian, his words a calming presence amidst her turmoil. Techno clung to him, her tears soaking into his armor as she let out the pent-up emotions that had been building inside her.
In Skyquake's comforting embrace, Techno was confronted with a pain she hadn't felt in a very long time – a pain that echoed the wounds of her past, from a time before the plague had ravaged her world. It was a pain born of rejection, a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities she had hidden behind the mask she had meticulously crafted. Over two centuries ago, when she still aged, when her parents were alive, and when the specter of the plague hadn't cast its dark shadow, she had felt this kind of hurt.
The sting of Wheeljack's words seemed to cut deeper than she could rationalize. Her mind grappled with the discomfort, and she wrestled with the onslaught of memories from her past. It was as if the wound of betrayal, inflicted by her first friend all those years ago, had been freshly reopened, reminding her of the pain she had endured and the scars she carried.
Skyquake's presence and his soothing words in the strange flowing Cybertronian dialect offered Techno a lifeline in the midst of her emotional storm. She clung to his support, letting her tears flow and allowing herself to be vulnerable once more, seeking solace from the pain that had resurfaced.
Techno's tears eventually subsided, leaving behind a lingering sense of vulnerability. She gently pulled away from Skyquake, her gaze shifting downward as she battled with the shame that came with revealing her emotions so openly to another. Skyquake's presence offered a sense of security, a steady anchor in the midst of her emotional turbulence.
As Techno tried to make sense of her own turmoil, Skyquake's deep voice cut through the air, his concern evident in his words. "What caused you such distress, Technoblade, so much so that you Trans-warped into my living quarters?" His inquiry was gentle, a reflection of his genuine care for her well-being.
With a sigh, Techno hesitated before softly admitting her inner struggle, her voice barely above a whisper. "I... don't understand why I'm this upset... they were just words. I've heard worse about myself, but these words... they hurt." She leaned against Skyquake's chest, seeking a measure of comfort from his presence.
"One of your Mech partners insulted you?" Skyquake asked his wings straightening in his anger but Techno shook her head "Wheeljack…I don't know him yet…his words hurt" Her voice was still in a semi whispered state as she just stared off into nothingness. "...Did you make any contact or connection prior to seeing him in person?" He asked softly, making her nod her head slightly.
"Then... you already built a connection to the mech through verbal interactions," Skyquake's words held a soothing quality, his wings flaring slightly in his empathetic anger on her behalf. Techno nodded slightly, her gaze still distant as she absorbed his explanation.
"You and your mech partners have a spark connection, whether you know this or not," Skyquake continued, his voice carrying a depth of understanding. "Your soul reaches out and touches their sparks, choosing them to protect it, to love it, to cherish it until its light dies out... at least that's how sparks work. You made this connection to many, maybe even to some mechs who can't feel it yet."
Techno's mind absorbed Skyquake's explanation, the idea of a spark connection through voice communication intriguing yet comforting. As she leaned into his embrace, a sense of solace enveloped her, providing a much-needed respite from the emotional turmoil she had been experiencing.
"So... you're saying that even though I haven't met Wheeljack before, there's still some kind of... connection between us?" Techno sought clarity, her voice carrying a hint of hope.
Skyquake stumbled over his words, revealing a vulnerability that seemed endearing. "You spoke with him over a comm'link, while not rare, some femme's are able to make a connection through voice. Your soul reached through the comm'link and touched Wheeljack's spark, and now… his rejection of you is hurting not just you, but your soul." His words held a somber weight, and Techno felt a pang of understanding.
Then, with a hint of bashfulness, Skyquake turned away, his wings twitching slightly. "I... I would never think of doing this to... to my femme if I ever got one," he admitted, his embarrassment endearing to Techno.
His admission of how he would treat his own femme, if he had one, touched her heart. It was a glimpse into his caring nature, and it brought a smile to her lips. "I'd love to take you as mine, Skyquake," she spoke, her words clear and unwavering, and her blush matched his as she expressed her feelings openly.
Skyquake's wings shivered slightly in response, his gaze meeting hers with a mixture of surprise and delight. "You would... accept me as your mech?" he asked, his voice a mix of hope and disbelief.
Techno nodded, her smile soft and genuine. "Yes, I would. You…you didn't run when you saw me crying, you didn't immediately question me until I was done…you gave me comfort when I was at my…my lowest." She placed her head gently on Skyquake's chest feeling his spark beat beneath her.
"I am honored…Technoblade." Skyquake held Techno in the comforting embrace, her heartbeat a steady reassurance against his frame. They shared a quiet moment of solace, the turmoil temporarily forgotten in the warmth of their connection.
However, their tranquility was interrupted as the door swung open, revealing a frantic Cliffjumper. His rapid-fire words in Cybertronian filled the room until he caught sight of Techno in Skyquake's holoform's arms. The relief on his face was palpable as he practically fell to his knees before them.
"Techno! You're okay, you're safe!" Cliffjumper's voice carried a mixture of worry, relief, and a deep affection for the femme he considered a close friend. He activated his holoform and gently scooped Techno from Skyquake's arms, his relief evident as he held her close.
"We all felt your distress, and then when you came back, we saw you crying," Cliff explained, his tone filled with concern. "Blaster said you Trans-warped somewhere. I was so worried."
Techno was held tightly in Cliffjumper's embrace, his genuine care and concern washing over her. She nestled against him, feeling a sense of security in his arms. "I'm sorry for causing so much worry," she murmured.
Cliffjumper's holoform still held a slightly panicked expression as he gently placed her back on the ground, his optics scanning her as if making sure she was physically unharmed. "You had us all worried, Techno. What happened?" he asked, his voice a mix of relief and lingering concern.
Techno sighed softly, her emotions still raw but more manageable now. "It's... a bit complicated," she admitted, giving him a small, reassuring smile. "Wheeljack's comments... they just hit me harder than I expected. Skyquake helped me understand why." She gestured subtly toward the seeker, acknowledging his role in comforting her.
Cliffjumper's gaze shifted to Skyquake, and he nodded in gratitude before turning back to Techno. As she began to explain the situation, Cliffjumper's expression shifted to one of concern, his optics focused intently on her. "The... connection I have with all of you... Skyquake thinks I made a similar connection to Wheeljack over the comm'link," she started, her voice holding a mixture of vulnerability and honesty. She hesitated for a moment before continuing, her voice quieter, "When... he made the comments earlier... it hurt... it was so hollow."
Cliffjumper's optics widened in realization, his concern deepening. "It was both hollow and it hurt?" he questioned, seeking confirmation. Techno nodded in reply, her gaze downcast as she grappled with the complex emotions she was experiencing.
Cliffjumper looked up at Skyquake, and the two mechs shared a knowing look. Skyquake's expression shifted to anger before he nodded, conveying his agreement. "There might be... something wrong if that's the case... but don't get too hopeful if our assumption is not correct," Skyquake warned, his voice carrying a mix of concern and determination.
Both mechs dismissed their holoforms. Cliffjumper gently lifted Techno onto his shoulder, a gesture of protection and support. Skyquake joined them, and the trio began walking down the hallway toward the atrium. The expressions on their faces were fierce, filled with a simmering anger.
Their anger was nearly deflated as they entered the atrium, witnessing Bulkhead's attempts to pressure Wheeljack into sharing an old war story. However, their attention was quickly drawn to the unusual sight in front of them: a massive ball of metal lay on the floor, looking as though it had been forcefully thrown into a wall. Techno exchanged a glance with Skyquake, who wore a disapproving expression.
Skyquake's voice was tinged with disdain as he offered an explanation, "Lobbing... it was a sport on Cybertron, and it was destructive." He then turned his narrowed optics onto Wheeljack, his gaze scanning the wrecker from helm to ped with a discerning intensity.
In response to Skyquake's scrutiny, Wheeljack's initial reaction was one of surprise. His optics widened, and he seemed ready to speak, but then he suddenly halted and activated his cannon, pointing it directly at the seeker. "Skyquake!?" Wheeljack exclaimed with a convincing tone of shock, seemingly caught off guard by the sudden turn of events.
Skyquake remained silent, an aura of hostility enveloping him, though he held his position for Techno's sake. Meanwhile, Cliffjumper exuded a palpable sense of anger, a departure from his typically energetic and amiable demeanor. The sudden shift in his disposition puzzled the other bots, raising questions about what had provoked this level of fury. Despite Techno's unique black sclera that hid her tears, the growing bond between the bots allowed them to sense her emotional distress keenly.
Cliffjumper took a determined step forward, with Techno still perched on his shoulder, her expression blank as she stared at the mech in front of her. She knew he sounded like Wheeljack from talking to him earlier, even looked like Wheeljack according to Bulkhead. There was an underlying feeling that this wasn't right.
The mech responded with a dismissive tone, "Fer what? Telling the truth?" However, before he could continue, Techno's voice sliced through the tension, her question cutting to the heart of the matter. "Who are you…" Her words held an edge that demanded an explanation, catching everyone off guard, including Optimus, who had just returned to the scene.
Chaos erupted as Techno was suddenly snatched from her perch on Cliffjumper's shoulder by the imposter in the guise of Wheeljack. The swift turn of events left her disoriented, her heart racing as the imposter held her captive. "I knew it was you Makeshift! The moment Techno said her bond with Wheeljack felt empty, Hollow!" Skyquake's roar of recognition pierced the air, his anger fueled by the realization of the deception.
With a transformation that filled the room with a sense of impending danger, Skyquake armed his Gatling cannon, ready to take action. The other Autobots swiftly followed suit, weapons drawn as the situation escalated. The true nature of the imposter was laid bare as he held Techno hostage, his grip tight and threatening.
The room crackled with tension as Makeshift tightened his grip on Techno, using her as a shield to fend off the approaching Autobots. Skyquake's accusation echoed through the air, exposing Makeshift's deception. His voice now matched the sinister tone of Sideways, almost as if he were related to the now offline infiltrator.
"Stay back, or I'll squeeze her into pulp! All this… Sideways is dead because of this fragging femme… now open a groundbridge!" Makeshift's words were a chilling threat, his voice sending a shiver down the spines of the Autobots.
In a burst of desperation and instinct, Techno bit down on one of the cables in Makeshift's hand. Energon flooded her mouth, the taste both strange and familiar, a sharp tang that pulsed with energy. The shock of her action resonated through the room, momentarily freezing everyone in place. Techno's body vibrated with a mix of anger and fear, her senses heightened by the surge of energy coursing through her.
The groundbridge's distinct sound of activation filled the air, accompanied by the crackling static in her ear, the sensation of weightlessness enveloping her once more. In an instant, the world around her blurred, whirled to life nearby but also the sound of static in her ear, then the familiar feeling of weightlessness.
Techno found herself sitting on the floor of an unfamiliar room, the surroundings awash in shades of metal and purple. A sense of déjà vu tingled at the edges of her mind, a feeling that she had encountered this place before. But before she could fully comprehend her surroundings, her attention was drawn to the fact that she wasn't on the floor at all—she was seated on a mech's chest.
Her eyes widened as she took in the sight before her. The unmistakable Decepticon insignia adorned the center of the mech's chest, and a rush of conflicting emotions surged within her. Fear, curiosity, and a sense of urgency all mingled together as she studied the unconscious figure beneath her.
As Techno's gaze shifted, she noticed the array of medical equipment connected to the mech. Tubes and wires extended from various points of his body, leading to machines that emitted soft beeping sounds. Her heart raced as she realized that this mech was in a critical condition, hooked up to life-saving devices.
With cautious steps, Techno rose to her feet and approached the unconscious mech. Carefully, she walked across his chest to get a better look at his face. Scars criss crossed his rugged features, adding to his battle-worn appearance. Despite the scars, there was a certain rugged handsomeness to him that caught her attention. She found herself reaching out to touch his cheek, feeling the warmth emanating from his form.
As she gently touched his warm cheek, a sense of connection washed over her. It was an intimate gesture, an exploration of the unknown, as if seeking some kind of understanding through physical contact.
However, her moment of exploration was abruptly interrupted as the door burst open, revealing Thundercracker, the blue flier she had encountered before. "Get away from Lord Megatron Femme!" His harsh words and the urgency in his voice made her startle, her hand instinctively pulling back. The sudden rush of panic and confusion triggered another trans-warp, propelling her onto Thundercracker's helm.
Perched on Thundercracker's helm, Techno faced the blue flier's exasperated outburst. "Trans-warp?!" he exclaimed, swatting at her in an attempt to dislodge her. Yet again, her surroundings shifted, and she found herself on the lap of Frenzy, or was it Rumble. The minicon was poised to speak, but before he could utter a word, Techno lunged forward, sinking her teeth into the mech's neck and draining him of his energon.
As the minicon fell silent, Techno rose to her feet, scanning her surroundings. No one appeared to be nearby, affording her a moment of respite. Closing her eyes, she concentrated, visualizing her desired destination – the Autobot base. The atrium with its familiar features materialized in her mind's eye, the missile silo walls and ceiling, the prominent Autobot insignia in the center.
A surge of weightlessness enveloped her, and her eyes snapped open just in time to witness Soundwave's swift entry into the room. In the blink of an eye, she found herself about ten feet off the ground within the Autobot base. Vertigo gripped her as she plummeted, but she landed securely within the servos of a mech who bore a striking resemblance to Wheeljack.
"Heya, Technoblade," the mech greeted with a hint of amusement. "You gave everyone quite the scare." The familiar voice rang true, resembling Wheeljack's, the feeling of empty hollowness was gone, this was the real Wheeljack. Darkness swam at the edge of her vision as she reached up with a hand trying to touch his cheek before the darkness consumed her. Her hand fell limply, and she felt herself slipping into unconsciousness, a sense of nothingness gradually overtaking her.
Wheeljack stared down at the small, unconscious femme in his hand as Ratchet scanned her with his medscanner. "She has energon in her system, probably from biting Makeshift, and she's exhausted... Someone tell me how she is able to trans-warp? And... where exactly did she go?" The medic looked around at the others standing around.
Skyquake walked forward. "When Technoblade was distressed, she warped into my quarters. It didn't look like a normal warp since Skywarp, the seeker that is part of Starscream's trine, has a trans-warp drive. Techno's warp had a purple swirling effect that left odd light particulates in the air that dissipated after a few seconds." He explained with a puzzled expression.
Wheeljack's gaze shifted from the unconscious Techno to Skyquake as the explanation unfolded. Ratchet continued his scans, furrowing his brows as he processed the information. "Trans-warp capabilities? And a unique signature at that," Ratchet mumbled to himself, adjusting the medscanner to gather more data.
Bulkhead scratched his helm, deep in thought. "So, she's like a living groundbridge?"
Ratchet sighed and shook his head. "It's more complicated than that. Groundbridges work on the principles of space-time manipulation, whereas Techno seems to be tapping into something different."
Arcee chimed in, "It's as if her emotions are acting as the energy for her jumps. But why did she jump to those particular locations?"
"My guess is that Techno warped to a place she felt safe during her distress. But in her panic she warped somewhere that was perceived as safe in her subconscious, where that was, I don't know. I'm also detecting a different type of energon in her, the kind specifically given to minicons," Ratchet explained, his concern evident in his voice.
"Does that mean she went and bit one of Soundwave's minicons?" Arcee asked, looking at Techno who mumbled something incoherently and turned in her sleep, prompting Wheeljack to cradle her more securely so she didn't fall. "I can only make assumptions for now until she wakes up and we can ask," Ratchet shrugged before sighing. "There's nothing physically wrong with her, she's just tired, apparently."
"That might be because we stayed up half the night playing a videogame together," Bulkhead sheepishly admitted, causing a few chuckles from the others. The tension seemed to ease a bit, knowing that Techno was safe and that her condition wasn't critical. Wheeljack looked down at the sleeping femme in his arms, a soft smile tugging at the corners of his lips.
"So, Jackie, thinking about sticking around and being part of Team Prime?" Bulkhead chuckled enthusiastically. Ironhide walked up with his arms crossed. "If not, then join fer Techno. She has a way of keepin' bots around even when they don't wanna," the weapons specialist chuckled before walking off.
Wheeljack looked around the room at all the smirking faces as if they knew what was going to happen and were just waiting for confirmation. "Well, I don't really like being tied to one place," the wrecker started, a few of the smirks turned into glares, making Wheeljack chuckle and continue, "But…I'm not one to upset a femme. And from the stuff Bulk's been telling me, Techno and I have a lot in common." The tension lifted even further as laughter and nods of approval spread among the Autobots.
As the group settled in, awaiting Techno's awakening, Wheeljack found himself growing curious about the unique femme who had fallen into his arms. He glanced down at her sleeping form, a newfound feeling forming in his spark, and he didn't seem to mind.
Why do I hate myself so much when typing! It was pointed out to me that Techno has no drawbacks, and no limits, well I am here to tell you she does, they are just the limits she sets since she knows fuck all about her self.
AND A REMINDER! This is my story, I get that people find it enjoyable to read and whatever but Ultimately this is my story and it is being written how I want. You can share your opinions and I will take stuff into account but if it doesn't line up with how I want then its going to be ignored. No hate on you or your opinion.
