Chapter Ten: New Arrivals
The past 5 days had been rough, especially at night. The night of the Scraplet invasion everything was just fine when Cliffjumper and I were stargazing for almost two hours, but it all went down hill after we went to bed. Never in the past 21 years of my life had I ever had such a terrifying gut wrenching nightmare.
I would be in the hallway running down the hallway towards the main area. The screams of pain and terror as well as crunching metal echoed all around me. Finally the end of the hallway came into view only to smack into some invisible barrier.
My eyes widened in horror as I watched all the bots, including Arcee and Optimus, flailing around helplessly as the scraplets mercilessly ate at their armors. "No nononono LET ME THROUGH! I GOTTA SAVE THEM!" I screamed as I pounded on the invisible wall, tears streaming down my face. There was Energon everywhere.
Sobbing harder as nothing I did seemed to weaken the barrier. "R-Run." Ratchet gargled before his optics went dull. "NOO RATCHET!" Wailing as not only Ratchet stopped moving, but so did Arcee, Optimus, Bulk, Bee, and Blade. "NO PLEASE THIS CAN'T BE HAPPENING!"
"Run Shadow. Run and don't look back." My eyes widened in despair as Cliffjumper crawled into view. His left leg and right arm had been chewed off completely as there was a heavy Energon trail behind him and his optics flickering violently . I shook my head. "No Cliff, not you too." I sobbed as my legs gave out from under me. "D-Don't leave m-me." He gave me a weak grin as he put his hand against the barrier and I put mine up as well.
Then his eyes flicked off as his hand slumped against the floor. "CLIFFJUMPERRRR." I Screamed, screamed harder than I have ever screamed before.
I had been forced away then by someone but my mind was still on the nightmare that had just occurred. "Shadow, I'm here. I'm right here it's going to be alright." It was that moment that I finally snapped back to reality as I not only realized that someone was holding me up, rocking me, but it was the voice that made me realize that what I just witnessed was nothing but a horrible nightmare.
The only thing that I had processed that night was the fact that Cliffjumper was alive and the one holding me. My mind completely disregarded the others crowded by my doorway and Windblade and Ratchet in their holoforms next to my bed. Cliff never left my side that night. And unfortunately the nightmares never went away as they would show up every night so far to the point that I'm afraid to go to sleep. The last two night I had woken up after the nightmares and gone over to Cliffjumpers room. He made sure that his door was unlocked and had easy access to his berth. I would climb up to his chest before curling up above his spark chamber with my throw blanket over me as he would move his hand to where it cupped over me.
Currently I am sitting at the table in the kitchen with a cup Lemon Balm herbal tea that Miko found for me. Also received a box of Chamomile herbal tea that Jack had bought for me this morning that he had Arcee hand me after she dropped him off at school. As I was sitting there letting the smell of the lemon calm the nerves I heard the door open. Looking over I offered a small smile as Windblade walked in with his holoform. "How are you feeling partner?" He asked as he sat next to me. Sighing tirelessly I glanced back at the mug in front of me. "Exhausted. I've barely gotten any sleep the past five days and it's starting to get to me." I answered honestly since there's no point in trying to lie, especially since I have dark circles under my eyes and have barely spoken to anyone. Every so often I will have this strange feeling of comfort and warmth wash over me. It's confusing and I've been meaning to ask Ratchet about it but it's been slipping my mind.
"I have no doubt, hopefully what Jack gave you will help." He says as he grabs the box the boy gave me from the table and looks over it. "Yeah, but that is if my body takes it like it should. Not all humans are alike, while the benefits will work on some people, it don't always work for others. It just depends on what my body will allow." He looked over it before setting it back down on the table. "I hate that there isn't anything I could do to help you." He muttered. Smiling as I turned and put my arms around him. "Just you being here with me helps, all of y'all being there for me helps." He puts his arms around me as he gently rubs my back. I'm so glad to have a partner like Windblade, remembering how he became a brother figure to me when I joined the Shadowhunters.
"How would you like to go for a drive?" Windblade asked as I thought about it. Glancing at the time it was 2:26. Well why not? I hadn't been out of the base since Saturday. The fresh air may be just the thing I need. "Sure. Getting out could do me some good. Let me get dressed first." Gulping the last of the tea I got up and washed my mug before we walked out of the kitchen. I headed for my room while Windblade went to talking to Cliffjumper and Arcee who was nearby. He remained in his holoform since we about to leave the base when I get back. Once in my room I grabbed a pair of jeans and my Real Tree shirt before going into the bathroom to wash my face and put my hair up in a half ponytail. When I was finished I headed back to the command center where the three spotted me. "So I hear you about to go out for a bit?" Arcee smiles as Cliff mirrors her. Smirking up at them as the look of relieve is pretty clearly painted on their faces. "Yeah, some fresh air might do me some good." She nodded before we noticed Bulkhead and Bumblebee walking towards the entrance of the base. "We are about to head out ourselfs to beat the traffic." I chuckled as Arcee transformed and her holoform came to life. "It can get pretty bad between 3-4:30 anywhere from Monday to Friday. The joy of being around a school." That's one thing that won't change, the insane traffic that comes with children coming out of school for the day.
"You ready Shadowstalker?" Looking over to see Blade rolling closer to us as his holoform smirked. "Don't have to ask me twice." My smirk widened as I hopped into the passenger seat. "Don't have too much fun. Be careful." Cliffjumper said as he looked at me with the last part. Playfully rolling my eyes I craned my head to look up at him. "Don't worry my dear guardian of mine, we will." At that Windblade took off behind the other three. Once outside the others continued straight while Blade turned left. The window was slightly down while music played through the speakers as I watched as the desert rocks passed by us. It felt nice feeling the breeze on my face.
Nothing was said between the two of us, there was no need. It actually helped being out of the base as I felt my body start to relax for the first time in the past 5 days. Looking up I couldn't help but wonder about everyone else from our unit in the Shadowhunters. "Hey Windblade?" "Hm?" "Do you think that more Shadowhunters are out there?" I asked even though I knew that he wouldn't know either. He was silent before I felt a hand on my shoulder. Turning to see him grinning. "I'm sure that more are out there. If you remember the Shadowhunters, then you remember just how tough the group is." Hearing that brought a smile to my face. He's right, I remember the Shadowhunters and our group of 10 and how strong we were. "You're right. Thanks Blade." I side hugged him. "Anytime Shadow." He sped up faster.
After awhile he turned back towards the direction of Jasper before we heard Bulkhead's voice through the radio. "Hey Shadow, just got the kids and they were wondering if you would like to join them at K.O. for something to eat." I opened my mouth to decline when my stomach decided to accept the invitation, very loudly. "We'll be there in a few." Windblade chuckled as we turned down the intersection by the base heading for town. "Stupid stomach." I grumbled. Blade glanced over at me. "I already know that you haven't eaten anything other than that breakfast bar that Ratchet made you eat this morning. You need to eat something." I turned away from the stern look he was giving me. "I know." I sighed. With everything happening with the nightmares I hadn't been able to eat much to the point that Ratchet and Cliffjumper both threatened that they will strap me down to a table and force feed me.
It didn't take long before we got to the fast food restaurant as we parked next to Arcee and went in. Raf and Bee immediately waved us over to the long booth towards the back. Windblade sat next to Bulkhead as I sat next to Blade on the outside. Jack came around from the other side as he handed me a cup. Thanking him me and the kids went to get our drinks and I felt a bit excited when I saw that they had Bargs Root Beer. Filling up the cups we put them at our spots at the table. The kids went up to the counter as I lingered by the bots sitting in the booth. "Any of ya'll want anything?" I asked as they shook their heads except Bee who said Raf knows what he wants. "I might sneak a fry or two off Miko." Bulkhead smirked as Arcee shook her head amused. Turning to Windblade. "You sure you don't want anything Blade?" His lips turned up. "Yeah, now go get something to eat." Nodding I joined to three up by the counter. Looking up at the counter I zeroed in on the double bacon burger. Stepping up after the three ordered I ordered that with medium fries.
Took about 7 minuets to get our food out and we all went back to our booth. Windblade smirked as I started digging into my burger. "Hey, it has bacon in it. If there's anything that you will never see me decline, it's bacon." I laughed as I took another bite. Raising an eyebrow when Windblade's hand sneaking a fry from my tray. "Thought you said you wasn't hungry?" I smirked as he popped the fry into his mouth. "Nah, I said I didn't want you to order anything for me. Didn't say that I wasn't gonna steal something from your tray." He grinned with absolutely no regrets. I snorted in amusement as I finished my burger as Wind and I shared the fries and drink.
"Hey! That was mine!" Jack exclaimed as Arcee stole a chicken nugget off his tray and popped it in her mouth before he could grab it back. "Too slow Jack." She smiled before her eyes went wide in wonder as she looked back at his remaining chicken nuggets. I burst out laughing as I recognize the look of absolute love that you can only have for certain foods. Jack noticing this grabbed the box and held it closer to him too keep it away from the femme. "No Arcee, get your ow- DAMMIT SHADOW NOT YOU TOO!" Jack yelled as I quickly hopped back to my spot beside Windblade who was laughing along with the rest of our table. Yeah, I might have jumped in on the chaos by stealing a nugget as well. "It was too tempting Jack." I said with a smirk as Jack scooted his chair back a few feet while keeping an eye out for anyone else that wants to steal his chicken nuggets.
"So, I'm kinda surprised that ya'll are able to eat our food." Raf comments after him and Bee finish their meals. Bulkhead was the one that spoke up. "I was too at first but Doc bot said that it's designed to immediately break down as energy or something." Nodding in understanding as I got up to put the trash and tray up. "Makes sense." Coming back to the table I grabbed my cup before refilling it as the others took their trays to the trash. "Ready to go back?" Arcee asks as we all head out. "Yeah, I'm pretty sure Cliff is driving Ratchet up the walls as Optimus just watches from afar." Chuckling could be heard from Miko, Raf, Bee, & Bulkhead. Hopping in the passenger seat I rolled the window down as we started pulling out first. "See ya suckers!" I yelled out as Blade zoomed out the parking lot snickering as the others got stuck behind other cars.
The moment we got out of town and the road gave us an extra lane I saw Bee suddenly comes zooming into view with Arcee and Bulkhead close behind. Windblade and I grinned at each other before he suddenly punched the gas causing me to go farther into the seat as the seat belt tightened around me. The three behind us took the sudden speed boost as a challenge as Arcee pops a wheelie before speeding around Bee as she started gaining on us. "Faster Blade!" I laughed as I watched Bulkhead try to pass Bee. "We got this Shadow!" He smirked as he suddenly moved to where he was in front of Cee. The base came into view as Arcee and Jack tried to move around us but had to slow just slightly as to not have Jack go flying off due to the rough transition from pavement to dirt. The doors automatically opened as we sped in. "Hold on Shadow." I heard the grin in his voice as I gripped the 'Oh-shit' handle, and i'm glad I did.
The moment we reached the command center I barely registered Ratchet and Optimus at the console before Windblade suddenly drifted us as we came to a stop. I couldn't stop laughing as I stepped out to let him transform. "That was awesome!" I exclaimed as the children stepped away from their guardians who were either full blown laughing or in Arcee and Jacks case, chuckling. "Just wait till next time Shadow." Arcee smirked with her arms crossed. "We shall see bout that Cee." I beamed as I looked up at the two at the console looking on in slight confusion but also relieved. "I trust that you are feeling a bit better Shadow." Ratchet looks down at me with a slight grin as I nodded. "Yeah, I'm feeling better now. I just hope it stays like that." Him and the others agreed. Bulkhead and Miko ended up walking away to do some chores that needed to get done as Bee and Raf went up to play a game with Jack and Arcee watching.
"There you are Shadow. I was wondering when you were coming back." I turned to see Cliffjumper coming from the hallway. "Yeah, the others had asked if I wanted to join them to get something to eat so Blade and I met them at K.O." "And I wasn't invited. Ouch." Rolling my eyes as he had a fake hurt expression before he smirked and lowered his hand for me to hop on. "I got some stuff I need to get done so I'll be back in a bit." Blade says as he starts down the hallway towards the training room. Cliffjumper lifts me up to his shoulder. "So where too my dear Shadow?" I breathed out in amusement as I felt my face heat up. Of course he'd pull that Uno reverse card on me. "I don't know my dear Cliff. I was thinking about going to the top of the base, but I still need to do laundry, clean the kitchen, and see what all groceries i need to get since I was planning on making a run to the store either tomorrow or the next day." I explained as I started realizing that there are stuff I to need to get done.
Nodding me starts walking towards our rooms. "Can I help you with anything?" Cliff asked as we arrived to my room and he lowers me to the ground. I shook my head. "Nah, but thank you for the offer. I've done things by myself when it comes to cleaning and such." Grabbing the hamper I placed last nights pajamas in it before going into the bathroom. I used the washcloth to clean the counter and mirror before throwing that and the other dirty towels with the rest of the dirty clothes. Hearing transforming from behind me I turned around only to gasp when Cliffs holoform suddenly pulled me into a hug. "Cliffjumper?" I whispered as his arms slightly tightened around me and felt his chin rest on top of my head. "H-Hey, what's wro-" "I was worried that you wouldn't smile again." He muttered into my hair and I was glad that he wasn't looking at me as i'm sure my face was beet red. Moving my arms to where I could hug him properly. Never knew he was this worried for me.
"I'm ok now Cliffjumper. I'm sorry for making you worry. I don't know if the nightmares will stop, but I will be alright as long as you are there for me." I said into his chest. It felt so nice and warm, I didn't want to move and I knew he didn't either. Reluctantly I pulled away as I gave him a small smile. "If it wasn't for you then I would be worse off, so thank you." He mirrored the smile before I went back and gathered my hamper and sat it by my bed. "I guess if you don't need any help then i'll head back to the others." His holoform faded away before he transformed. "If you need anything just let me know and i'll come running." He playfully smirked at me before leaving. Shaking my head in amusement I went back to cleaning my room while getting out a notebook to start a list to which I added Allergy Pills since I have noticed that have been having just slightly harder time breathing at night.
When I was finished with my room I grabbed the hamper and notebook and started out towards the Command center. The steps of Bulkhead I can head a bit ahead of me as well as Miko's loud mouth saying something about dune bashing. Wait... dune bashing? I didn't realize that I had stopped walking. If she's talking about dune bashing then that would mean that we are about to meet Wheeljack. Well... the transmission from Wheeljack as we won't see him till sometime tomorrow. Something in me felt giddy about seeing Wheeljack even though we end up with Makeshift for the first half. Suddenly a memory of Bulkhead and Wheeljack with me and Blade surfaced. I remember that there were often times where the Wreckers would help the Shadowhunters and vise versa, the four of us usually working together. Now I can't wait till tomorrow to be able to see him and I know for a damn fact that he would be shocked and happy to see me. Don't worry Jack-O, I'm still alive. I smirked at the nickname I had for him since Bulk had Jacky.
"-o be coming from a starship inside this Solar System." I walked in to see Ratchet typing and the bots start gathering around. Windblade noticed me and gave me questioning eyes. 'Cleaning' I mouthed as I started up the stairs that led to the kitchen and laundry room. Ratchet gasps from behind me. "It's an Autobot identification beacon!" "Wait, so there are other bot's out there?" Jack asked as Arcee answered. "The mass's scattered throughout the galaxies when Cybertron finally went dark, but Cons have been known to bait traps with false beacons." I can just imagine the glare that she's giving the screen. "Unknown vessel, this is Autobot Outpost Omega One. Identify yourself." Optimus ordered as I got to the door of the kitchen and reached for the door knob.
"We've had warmer welcomes from Decepticon Combat Brigades." My hand froze at Wheeljacks words half way into opening the door. We've? Are there more bots with him this time? Who are they and do I know them, whether it be from Cybertron or watching Transformers. Looking back in time for Bulkhead to move forward suddenly nearly knocking Miko off his shoulder before walking into the room leaving the door open so I could still hear somewhat. "Wheeljack?" He exclaimed excitedly, "You old 'Con Crusher! What are you doing all the way out here?" "Bulkhead? That you? What's with all the security" Wheeljack inquires and I heard a gruff snort from over the line. "Why wouldn't there be? Remember that Cons forge fake Autobot signals? Besides, did I just hear Optimus Primes voice?" My eyes widened at the voice, I knew that voice anywhere and I'm glad that it wasn't different in this world.
"Ironhide, I am relieved to hear you alive and well." Optimus sounded relieved as well that his weapons specialist is still alive. Hell I am too, I've always loved Ironhide in the Transformers movies and was soooo very pissed when he was betrayed and killed by Sentenal Prime. Oooo that bastard better not show up here or so help me I will make his life a living nightmare. Going through the door at the back of the kitchen that leads into the laundry room, the last thing I heard before the voices faded was Ironhides deep laugh.
And that is all it took.
That laugh was what it took to remember the times I spent around him and his Sparkmate Chromia. I remember now, Arcee was the one who introduced me to her and Ironhide. The times we hung out and Ironhide and me talking about different weapons and what weapons we would like to have. Mine was Katanas and certain guns.
Smiling at the memories I started putting my stuff in the washer.
Cliffjumper's POV
I couldn't believe that we found more Bots. Now we would be stronger against the Cons, plus it would seem that Bulk and Prime already know them.
"It's good to hear ya'll's voices." Scratch that, we can add Windblade to the list. "Ironhide? Thank Primus you're still alive, is Chromia with you." Frag, add Arcee as well. "Windblade? Arcee? Primus it's good to hear your voices. And I'm sorry Arcee but she isn't with me, though I know she's still alive due to our sparkbond." Ironhide answered as Arcee deflated. I placed a comforting servo on her shoulder plating. "Yeah, I can still feel her and Elita's bond so I know they are still online." She smiled sadly.
"Oh, I almost forgot, we got one more bot here with us." My eyes widened as Wheeljack called out for somebot. "I swear, IF YOU DON'T GET YOUR DEPRESSED AFT OUT HERE THIS NANOCLICK I AM GONNA DRAG YOU OUT WITH EXPLOSIVES!" Not gonna lie I nearly burst out laughing at that. Rustling could be heard before groaning followed. "The frag is going on and why do you need me?" At that moment Bee was shoved to the side by Windblade as Arcee jumped forward towards the screen. "NIGHTSHADE?!" Optimus's eyes had widened in shock along with Ratchet's "By the All-Spark." Doc breathed. "W-wait, Arcee? W-Windblade? By the All-Spark, I can't believe it. Ya'll are online." Hold on, Nightshade? As in Shadowstalkers-
"We ain't the only ones Night. Ratchet, Optimus, and Bulkhead are here too. Not sure if you have met Bumblebee and Cliffjumper before but their here too." Arcee spoke before she suddenly turned to where Shadow dissappeared to. I knew what she was thinking and I was also thinking of getting Shadow. "I didn't think I would ever hear your voices again." He spoke.
"There's... something you should know Nightshade. More like good news... and bad." Ratchet spoke up after him and Optimus shared a look. "What do you mean Ratch?" Doc was silent for a bit, likely finding a way to explain about Shadowstalker.
"She's... alive." Ratchet said at last.
At first there was silence before we could hear low gasping. "S-Shadow?" Nightshade's voice trembled with emotion. "Yes, and that is the good news... however the bad news-" "Bad News!? Would this happen to explain the fact that I can still feel her through the bond but ain't able to reach her?!" "Yes it would. First, we have come to realize the reason the Kishin took her. To experiment. I know it would be heard to believe but the seemed to have figured out how to sent a bot to an alternate world and transform them into a different species. Shadowstalker is currently a human, the species of which inhabit the world we are currently on, but not only that, they had also locked up her memories of being Cybertronian. On a good note she is slowly regaining her memories, though it is a slow process." Ratchet explained while balling my servos in anger. I swear if I got my servos on the one that did this to her, I will make them pay dearly.
"Can I- Is she there?" Nightshade asked hopefully and I looked back to where Shadow would be, the door seemed to close by itself. As much as I would like to get her, I know that she is busy. "She's in the base but she is in another room with a list of stuff that she needed to get done." I piped up since I was the only one she told. The mech sighed. "How long till we get there?" "Sometime tomorrow... if I put metal to the petal." Wheeljack answered with a smirk in his voice.
"Another bot's coming here! How cool is that?" Miko said excitedly as Bulkhead nodded in agreement. I too have to agree with her. I've heard of Nightshade from Windblade and Arcee, and Ironhide from back on Cybertron. Just seeing the interaction between Bulkhead and Wheeljack tells me that Wheeljack is also a Wrecker. Things are about to get a whole lot more interesting.
"Wheeljack... I know by reputation only, however I do know Ironhide and Nightshade personally. I may not have to ask you to verify his voice print." Optimus nodded towards Ratchet as he typed on the console. "We will send landing coordinates, Wheeljack. Safe journey."
"See you soon buddy! I'll make sure you get a proper welcome!" Bulkhead promised before Doc closed the link.
"So who's the boyfriend?" Arcee smirked at Bulkhead as I snickered. "Oh, me and Jacky go way back. We were part of the same warrior unit: The Wreckers. Which means the Cons' will wish he never found us, especially now that Ironhide and Nightshade are with him as well." The Wrecker explained before I made my way towards where Shadow is.
Unbeknownst to anyone, Soundwave had heard the entire conversation between the Autobots. He knew he should have gone straight to Starscream, ain't no way in the Pit he would refer to him as Lord of anything.
Instead he sent a message to Knockout to come by his quarters, and made sure to mention Shadowstalker. Unsurprisingly to him there was a knock within two clicks of sending him the message. The door opened to reveal the wide-eyed medic as he no doubt dropped whatever he was doing to rush to the room. "What about Shadowstalker? Did something happen?" The red con questioned hurriedly. Soundwave just deadpanned behind his visor before starting the recording, causing Knockout's face to contort in confusion until he heard another voice that he hadn't heard in a long time.
"Nightshade? He's alive too?" Knockout breathed in shock that his other adopted sparkling survived the fall of Cybertron. He knew that Shadowstalker was dealing with Amnesia, but now he really hoped that seeing her older brother will open a lot more memories. Then maybe he and Shadow can finally connect through the bond properly. While Knockout had created a familiar bond with Shadowstalker after the siblings creators deaths, he never did get to create the bond with Nightshade. The red con remembered how clingy Shadowstalker was after their Creators passed, she was either with him or her brother until she was able to get enough courage to go out and make friends such as the small blue bot.
"Soundwave, can you can remix the transmission to where there is no mention of Shadowstalker and Nightshade?" Knockout asked worried. He knew that Soundwave had to show Starscream the recording, but that didn't stop the protective parental side to make sure the Sadistic Con didn't know of his sparklings existence, frag not even Breakdown knew, though he might let the big mech know on the off chance he comes across them. Soundwave stood still but it only took him a few seconds to remix the transmission to where it only had Wheeljack and Ironhide.
Knockout sighed in relieve and smirked as he turned to leave. "Good, I don't care what happens to the others as long as my sparklings are safe."
Shadow's POV
"The ship is approaching the landing zone." Arcee stated as we all gathered around the main computer. After the door shut by itself while doing chores yesterday I missed the fact that there was a THIRD bot coming to Earth. Cliffjumper had came in and helped me clean the kitchen while he told me about the bots coming. I already knew about Wheeljack coming, I knew Ironhide from my past/ watching Transformers... but Nightshade. That name again, I knew I knew him, and not from any Transformers show(Pit there was never a Nightshade mentioned in any show). Which means he must have been close to me on Cybertron. I felt both giddy and anxious, even though they all have been aware of my predicament.
"You think they're here to stay?" I was brought out of my thought as Raf looked up at me. Grinning as I ruffled his hair. "Oh i'm sure." Even though i'm pretty sure Wheeljack will leave in a few days. "Maybe they'll stay!" Miko exclaimed before humming in thought. "They'll have to find their own humans though." I shook my head. "How bout no, we don't need to bring anymore humans into this war, Pit the three of ya'll ain't suppose to be apart of this." Yeah we don't need to bring anymore innocent people into this alien war, even though June ends up getting thrown into it, no thanks to a certain spider-con and Mech.
Ratchet starts the ground bridge. "Ground bridge cycling up." Only for it to start glitching opting him to hit it before shutting it down. "Blasted scraplets! The equipment hadn't been the same since the infestation." He grumbled in irritation. I looked up at him from my place next to him. "It just needs to be rebooted and it should go back to normal, right?" He nodded. "I'll wait till the newcomers get here since the process will take some time to complete."
"So, they are going to land halfway across the world and then you'll bridge them here?" Jack asked as Optimus turned to him. "We can't risk revealing the location of our base, just in case the Decepticon's are tracking their ship. My lips pulled into a thin line at that. Yeah, they definitely tracking them. I see Miko run towards Bulkhead out of the corner of my eye. "Dude, I've never seen you so stoked!" I heard the girl comment. "Oh, you're gonna love Wheeljack! We were like brothers, and tonight, we're gonna party!" Bulkhead exclaims with a fist in the air while Miko's face lit up like a Christmas tree. "Sweet!"
Suddenly the alarms went off. Looking at the screen there were 5 dots following Wheeljacks ship. Even though I know the outcome I still felt anxious, and apparently Cliffjumper noticed cause I suddenly felt him poke me. Turning to him he gave me reassuring grin. "Ain't nothing to worry about, those buckets of bolts got nothing on those three." Somehow those words helped ease my anxiety, but only half. I didn't think about it before but it just hit me that we now have three bots and one of them is suppose to be Makeshift. I'm hoping that it will still be Wheeljack since I know how it would turn out, however it could easily be Ironhide or Nightshade that Makeshift turns into. "Bogies, and their closing fast on their ships position." Arcee glares at the screen with her fists clenched.
"Con scum!" Bulkhead yells as he rushes towards the ground bridge. "Open the bridge Ratchet! We're missing the action." Ratchet activated the ground bridge again, this time without the sparking. "I'll prepare sickbay." Ratchet turn to head that direction. Bulk and I snorted in amusement. "Who for? The Con's? This is Wheeljack we're talking about, not to mention Ironhide and Nightshade." He laughed before he and the others ran through the open bridge.
It was about a minuet of silence before Raf piped up next to me. "So...what do you think the new bots would be like?" I looked down at his curious eyes. I placed a finger to my cheek as I looked up in thought. My memories of Wheeljack and Ironhide have already resurfaced but not of Nightshade. Before I could answer the boy Ratchet popped off with "If Wheeljack is anything like Bulkhead, then I fear the worst." That comment alone caused me to double over in laughter because he ain't wrong. With those two around it nothing but insanity that you would expect when two best friends get together. "Wheeljack is quite...lively and entertaining and a great fighter that specializes in explosives. Ironhide is pretty chill and laid back, he does have a humorous side though. He is best known as the weapons specialist of the Autobot forces. Nightshade on the other hand i'm afraid I can't help you there since my memories of him hadn't come back to me." He nodded in appreciation.
I went over to the couch where my notebook was and added an item that I suddenly remembered I needed to get at the store. I really need to see if someone could run me to the store. Multiple sets of heavy footsteps made me look up to the others coming back before the bridge started sparking again. I shook my head as Ratchet started grumbling.
Bulkhead immediately brought 'Wheeljack' over towards Miko (Yeah it took me two seconds to see that it was indeed Makeshift posing as Wheeljack with the odd glint in his optics). I ignored those three as I looked over the other two Mechs. Ironhide and Nightshade. Ironhide made his way towards Optimus as Nightshade was talking to Windblade though I couldn't make out what they were saying. As I looked at Nightshade I could feel my heart beating slightly faster within my chest. Come on brain, please remember him! It was killing me that the memories weren't surfacing.
"Did you finish that list that you needed from the store?" Looked over to see Cliffjumper near the platform. Closing the notebook I walked towards my guardian. "Yeah, at some point, either today or tomorrow I will need to run to the store. Would you like to come with me?" He nodded with a grin. "You know I would." I chuckled.
"Hey, Shadow!" Windblade called. Looking around Cliff I saw Blade coming towards me while Nightshade was frozen behind his staring at me wide-eyed. My partner lowers his hand to me as I wordlessly hopped on. He then walks back towards the still frozen bot. As I looked at him i can see the horror clear as day on his face along with sadness and anger in his eyes. And somehow I felt those same emotions within me.
Stopping in front of the black mech I suddenly felt nervous, for what reason I have no clue. Scratching the back of my neck I offered him a small smile. "Hey, Nightshade. Cliff and Blade filled me in on what they told you. I'm still trying to regain my memories. I've had a few that had you in them but it didn't reveal who you were to me. I'm really sorry." I looked down in regret. I really hated saying that at this point, i'm really hoping that I won't have to say it for much longer.
A gentle touch on top my head had me looking up at the bot in front of me. "Don't stress it Shadow, it'll come back with time. The only thing that matters to me is that you're alive." He held out his hand to me and without a second thought I hopped from Windblade to Nightshade. His digits curled slightly as he brought me closer to his chestplating, his sparkbeat soothing my nerves. A wave of calmness washed over me as I closed my eyes. We had to have been really close for me to feel this safe with being by him. "It shouldn't take to long for me to remember though, like it didn't take long to remember the others here."
"It's good to see you again Shadow." I looked up to see Ironhide smiling at me. I returned to gesture. "Same goes to you too Hide as well as knowing that Chromia is still alive. Hopefully she'll find her way to Earth." He nodded before going to talk to Ratchet about the ground bridge.
Suddenly the hairs on the back of my neck stood on end as another voice popped up. "So Shadow, it's been awhile." I managed to suppress the urge to shudder as I glanced up at 'Wheeljack'. I gave him my best customer service smile. "That it had been. Just glad to see our favorite explosion expert still in one piece." He gave me a fake grin before approaching Optimus. "Optimus Prime. It's a privilege," the two shook hands. "Likewise, soldier. What have you to report from your long journey?" The Prime asked. "Been bouncing from rock to rock searching for signs of friend and foe. Now I find both." I wanted so badly to roll my eyes at the act.
"We are few but strong, we have grown. And we would relish welcoming new members into our fold." Optimus gave a small smile towards us and I grinned back at him. "I would be honored." Only in your nightmares Makeshift.
"Let's get this party started!" Bulkhead exclaims as he suddenly hits his 'BFFs' back causing him to stumble. The fake turned around and they chest bumped. I gotta admit if I didn't already know about the impostor I would had been fooled by his act, but just partially. "Ohh, joy." Our poor medic sighed sarcastically. Especially when a certain Asian plugged in her guitar that emitted it's god awful ear-bleeding noise causing everyone to wince. Bulkhead walked over to 'Wheeljack' with a ball of metal that he seemed to pull out of fragging thin air. Seriously, where did he get that thing from?!
"Come on Jackie. Show me what you got!" Bulkhead grinned as he lobbed the ball towards his buddy who caught it with ease. Nightshade and Windblade walked to the side as to not risk getting whacked in the head by the flying ball of twisted metal. Nightshade placed me upon his shoulder before leaning against the wall watching the party before us. Not far from us Jack and Arcee were talking before laughing as Bee and Raf started dancing to Miko's music. Optimus I just noticed was no longer in the room, same with Ironhide. I wonder if they were seeing about a vehicle form for the weapon specialist. We also need Nightshade to get a vehicle form as well as Wheeljack... that is when he gets back from his fun on the Con's ship.
Cliffjumper walked up and stood next to Nightshade and I. The two of us glanced at each other before he winked at me. I snickered while shaking my head. Looking up at the sound of a sudden crash and sparks I saw that 'Wheeljack' had missed the ball and hit the controls Ratchet was working on. Said bot was not pleased in the slightest. "You know, I'm attempting to perform sensitive calibrations here!" He shouted in aggravation as the impostor collected the ball. "Sorry Doc, Guess we're a little charged up." 'Wheeljack' stopped behind Ratchet. I couldn't make out what they were saying but I knew from the show as I sent a glare at the Con in disguise. Quickly adverting my gaze when he seemed to sense me looking at him, instead I looked over to see Bulkhead telling the group of bots and kids stories of their battles on Cybertron. 'Wheeljack soon walked over next to him.
"So there we were. No communications. Low on Energon. Surrounded by Cons. So what does Wheeljack do?" Bulkhead starts to tell the very interested human trio. "Tell em, Jacky!" Mr. Fakeaft seemed to grow nervous as all eyes turned to him unexpectedly. "Heh, what I do best."
Bulkhead laughed as he seemed to enjoy being a story teller as he continued. "He chucked his only grenade into the main heat exchanger!" "Yeah, seemed like a good idea at the time." 'Wheeljack' shrugged seemingly uninterested as he crossed his arms. "The joint went supernova!" Bulkhead gushed as Miko's eyes sparkled in amazement. "Awesome."
"Yeah. I'm still picking shrapnel out of my backside." The green bot scratched said backside. "I'm not surprised. Given the size of your backside." Arcee teased with a smirk while Bee agreed while laughing. 'Wheeljack' seemed to be lost in his thoughts as Bulkhead pointed at the devices on the bots hip. "There it is. Jacky's signature. One grenade, one shot... Hey, you alright?" The bot in question finally snapped out of whatever doomed thoughts he had. "What?" "You don't seem like yourself," Bulkhead observed. Well Bulky, that's because he ain't. "What do you mean?" The fake questioned as he stiffly stood. "I don't know. You seem... quiet." The Wrecker pointed out. "I've been stuck in a can too long. I should go topside before I go stir-crazy." 'Wheeljack' stated. "I have patrol in the morning. You can come with." Bulkhead offered the mech. "Let's go now." Wheeljack tried. "And break up the party?" Yeah, we don't get to many of those.
"Come on! The gangs loving you!" Uh, I object to that statement. I call hearsay. "You gotta tell them about the battle of Dark Mount Pass!" Bulkhead tried to get his buddy to join in the fun. "You tell them. You're better at it." Actually, the real Wheeljack LOVES telling stories. "How about Miko and Shadow here shows me the rest of the base?" Um, no thanks, I choose life thank you very much. "Yeah. Sure, Jacky. Go ahead." Bulkhead seemed to deflate with a nervous laugh. I sighed, ain't no way in the Pit I was going without another bot that isn't an impostor.
"Hey Nightshade, would you like to join us?" I asked as said bot lowered me to the ground. "Of course I will." He beamed while I noticed 'Wheeljack' stiffen. I mentally smirked at his growing discomfort. Good, damn con. "Tour starts now." Miko stood and started for the hallway while the rest of us followed. "Do you play any instruments? Can you fly? Have you thrashed more Decepticons than Bulkhead?" Miko asked her usual line of questions while I noticed the glare the white bot was giving her, either for the multiple questions or the one about killing more Decepticons. Nightshade chuckled from beside me. "She always this curious?" Nodding with a smirk as said girl looked back at me and stuck out her tongue. "Yeah, especially when there is someone new. When the three kids met me that one right there decided she wanted to play 20 questions at super speed." Laughing at the memory. "Yeah, well I still got my answers didn't I?" "HA, only cause I somehow was able to keep up with your speed talking."
Nightshade laughed while 'Wheeljack' looked so lost, also probably cause he never had this type of interaction within the Cons ranks. Kinda sad if you think about it. Continuing on the tour Miko pointed out every room and if she didn't know what the room was used for then she would say 'Random room'. "So that's pretty much it. Energon stock pile, power generator, armory. Everything you need to blow the joint sky high." Miko concluded as 'Wheeljack' looked around. "So where's this bunker located...exactly?" Yeah, like that ain't suspicious at all. Hell even Nightshade raised an eyebrow at his question. "If I told ya then I would have to rip out your Spark Chamber." Miko threatened even though it wouldn't do anything. The two bots just looked at the girl. "Kidding! Just outside Jasper, Nevada. Though I don't expect that to mean much to you." Miko answered as she continues walking. "Can't say it does."
"So, anyway out of here besides bridging?" He continued his suspicious questioning and looked around. "Why? Your not planning on leaving now, are you? Come on, i'll show you." Seriously Miko, how the hell are you so trusting when someone is being extremely suspicious. I swear, you and I are gonna have a little chat when this is all over. Miko and 'Wheeljack' turned around to go back towards the others and I started after them when a hand suddenly blocked me. Looking up at Nightshade confused only to see him glaring at the back of 'Wheeljack's' head. He looked back down at me before whispering. "Stay close to me." I nodded, thankful that he is also untrusting of the white bot.
We followed the two as I stayed as close to Nightshade as possible without him accidentally hitting me with his foot. The other bots and kids were in a group talking when our group approached. "Hey. What are you guys talking about?" The fake Wrecker asked as we joined the group and I stood next to Miko with Jack and Raf in front of us. "I was just telling the guys about you and me... at the Battle of Dark Mount Pass." Bulkhead lied. "That's a heck of a story." 'Wheeljack' stated. "Yep... Tell it." Bulk demanded with a glare and I noticed Cliffjumper giving the mech the same look Nightshade was giving him. Ok so three bots are very suspicious of 'Wheeljack'. Never mind, make that four. Windblade stood by Nightshade with the same glare.
"Talk, talk, talk! How about AFTER we go off-roading?" Miko really doesn't have a sense of caution.
"Miko, stay out of this!" Bulkhead warned as his glare deepened. "Bulkhead, easy." Arcee tried calming him down without success. Jack and my eyes met and I motioned for him to back away, nodding slightly before pulling Raf back towards Arcee and Cliffjumper. Cliff and I met gazes before nodding as he watched the boys. Now the main problem is that there is no way for me to get Miko's attention without also getting the impostors. Damn bitch don't wanna pay attention and likes to treat this as some sort of game. The only thing I can think of is pulling her out of the way at the right moment.
"I'm not sure I-"
"Tell It!" Bulkhead repeated more harshly. "Fine. Wanna live in the past, Bulkhead." 'Wheeljack' gave in annoyed. "The Wreckers were trapped between Decipticon patrol and a smelting pit. The Cons' were vicious, bearing down on us with everything they had. Me and Bulkhead engaged the enemy. Left them for scrap. Then I made us a way out using their backsides as stepping stones to cross the molten metal. Isn't that how it happened?" This joker is really not that bright isn't he? I thought as I got closer to Miko and prepared myself to move.
"Yeah. That's exactly how it happened..." Mr. Fake ass looked so damn proud. "Except for one little thing." Now he looked horrified. "I wasn't there." Bulkheads eyes narrowed and I heard Ratchet mutter 'What' from where he was by the controls. My hand hovered near Miko's back. "I'd already left the Wreckers to join up with Optimus. But you would know that if all you did was access Wheeljack's public service record." Bulkhead jabbed the impostors chest. It's now or never.
"Bulkhead, what does th- WHOA!" The Asian exclaimed as I shoved her as hard as I could, sighing in relief as Blade grabbed her. Unfortunately luck was not on my side as I gasped as I was suddenly swept off the ground. Primus FRAG IT ALL TO THE PIT! "SHADOW!" Nightshade, Windblade, and Cliffjumper yelled out as the fake shoved Ratchet away from the ground bridge controls. "Stay back! Or i'll squeeze her into pulp." Makeshift threatened as he held me in his hand. I felt panic build up at my lack of movement. The one thing about me is I will completely freak out if i'm unable to move my arms and legs.
"Wheeljack! What are you doing?" Miko screeched from her spot by the boys once Windblade sat her down. My heart beat increasing with each second that i'm unable to move my limbs as my breathing got slightly quicker. However deep down I can feel a hint of calming sensation that is helping a little. "Not Wheeljack you twit." I managed to get out only to regret it a second later as he tightened his grip, making it increasingly harder to breath and causing spots to appear in my vision.
"Decepticon coward! Let her go and face me!" Bulkhead gritted through his teeth as Windblade seemed to be holding Nightshade back while Arcee and Bee were holding Cliffjumper back. "Don't fret, plenty of fighting to come." Makeshift smirked using his real voice. "Is there a real Wheeljack?" Jack questioned. "Oh, I expect Lord Starscream is making sport of him." The con smirked before turning the the controls and grunted. "About time!" The ground bridge came alive a few seconds later as he started backing up towards it, the others slowly stepping towards my captor.
I closed my eyes as I tried to prepare for the sudden impact that is about to happen. "Let's get this party started!" Makeshift threw his arms up expecting a decepticon army. ... The impact was a lot harder than I thought as I was suddenly thrown into the air. Thankfully someone was able to catch me.
Opening my eyes I met the relieved eyes of my guardian. His fingers curled around me as I laid content in his hand, my heartbeat evening out now that I wasn't constricted anymore. Nightshade and Windblade was soon next to us.
The sounds of weapons being drawn turned my attention to the two Wheeljacks circling around each other. Bulkhead pounded his fists about to join before the actual Wheeljack stopped him with his katana. "Ugly's mine." That made me almost burst out laughing. It wasn't long before the two engaged in battle and I was able to easily track who was who. After a couple minuets Makeshift was knocked out. As Bulkhead and Wheeljack was dealing with Makeshift, Cliffjumper started making his way towards Ratchet with the other two following. A chill went through my body as Ratchet scanned me. "Thankfully no broken bones. The heart-rate is a bit high but seems to be going down. Other than that she will be just fine." I glanced at the medic and gave him a grin. "It'll take a lot more than that to get rid of me. Kishins already tried that and yet here I am, back again." That caused the mechs around me to chuckle. "That may be true, but let's not test that." Ratchet suggested with a small smile.
When I sat up Cliff brought me up to his shoulder. As I got comfortable we turned to see Wheeljack and Bulkhead walking towards us. "Shadowstalker, even as a human I can still recognize you." Wheeljack smiled at me as I huffed in amusement. "You have no idea how good it is to see you again Jacko." His smile widened at his nickname. "And it's good to see you remember me." I laughed. "Yeah, I remember being in the Shadowhunters and also partnering with the two of ya for certain missions. I remember everyone here... aside for Nightshade." Turning to said bot with an apologetic look, he gave me an encouraging smile, as well as a slight warming feeling from within me, which confused me but didn't show it.
I haven't figured out why these random feeling would suddenly surface, even more so as they don't feel like they are mine. I'll be feeling either fear or pain or anything negative and suddenly there would be something warm and positive. It's hard to explain and i'm wondering if it's something to do with the Cybertronian part of me. I might talk to Ratchet about it sometime.
Ratchet had informed Optimus of the event that just took place and it wasn't long before the Prime and weapons specialist arrived back at base and the others reported everything that had happened. The two then asked me if I was alright once they found out that I was used as a hostage, which I reassured them that I was fine. Bulkhead, Ironhide, and Wheeljack had gone back to Wheeljack's ship to fix the damages that the cons had inflicted.
It also didn't take long for Miko to start playing her guitar again as Jack, Raf, and Bee danced. Miko tried to get me to dance but I refused. Not the right music for me to dance to.
As if reading my mind she disconnected her guitar and plugged in her phone. Bursting out laughing as 'Low' by Flo Rida started to play. "I hate you." I told her with a smirk. "I know." She mirrored me. I started swaying my hips as I sang along with the song, getting into it a lot more I ever did before I came to base. Felt my face heat up when I realized that Cliffjumper was staring at me. Damn it, why does he make me feel this way.
After the song ended I found myself standing near Nightshade as we talked about getting him a vehicle mode and holoform. He's roughly the same size as Cliffjumper but slightly taller. Since the two were slightly similar I decided the Dodge Charger would probably suit him best as Cliff is a Dodge Challenger. When I told him my suggestion he seemed excited and we made our way to Ratchet who was still working on the controls. "It's like a reoccurring nightmare." He muttered to himself. "Hey Ratchet, do you have a moment?" Honestly if it was anyone other than me and possibly Optimus interrupting him then he would had gotten irritated, but he just looked up and turned off his tool. "We were wondering if he can download a vehicle schematic of a Dodge Charger?" He nodded as he stepped around Optimus, Ironhide, Bulk, and Jacko to get to the main computer. He typed a few things before a blueprint of the newest Dodge Charger model popped up. "All you have to do is scan the print." Ratchet told him before he went back to what he was doing.
Didn't take long for Nightshade to get it set up. "Wait, you're leaving? Why?" I heard Miko ask as Wheeljack looked down at her sadly. Figured that he would leave. At least Ironhide and Nightshade is staying. "Because some bots never change." Bulkhead chuckled dishearteningly. Poor guy, I feel for him. Just got reunited with his best friend only for him to leave again.
Turning to Bulkhead I gave the Wrecker a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, he'll be back again. He won't be able to stay away for too long." That seemed to bring up his spirit a bit as Wheeljack laughed. "You know I won't Wrecker-femme."
"Wheeljack, know that you always have a heathen here." Optimus informed. "Jacky never stays, but he always comes back." Bulkhead pulls Wheeljack to him before they fist bump.
With that we all (excluding Optimus and Ratchet) bridged to the ships location to say our farewells. After everyone went through the bridge Wheeljack turned to Bulkhead. "You know there's room for you Bulk, even with a backside like yours. Who knows who we might find out there, some of the old crew..."
Bulkhead turned to look at us humans, mainly Miko who looked down in sadness. The bot chuckled. "Sounds like fun Jacky, but my place is here with them, with her." The girl looked up in surprise before smiling. Hell i smiled too, glad that he wasn't leaving us. Nodding in understanding Wheeljack turned his attention to Miko. "If anything happens to my favorite Wrecker, i'm coming after you." He lightly threatened. "I'll take good care of him. Now say cheese." She took out her phone and snapped a picture of the two Wreckers.
Finally I walked up to the white bot as he knelled down to me and lowered his hand for me to hop onto. Bringing me close to his chest I gave him as much of a hug as I could. "I wish I was Cybertronian again to be able to give you a proper hug." I whispered as I felt his hand slightly tighten around my back. "It'll happen Shadowstalker, so don't you worry. By the time I come back we can properly hug then." He tried reassuring me even though I still had my doubts. "I missed you, Shadow." I heard him mutter just enough for me to hear. "I missed you too, Jacko. Please stay safe out there." I silently pleaded. "I will do me best." Sure you will. Smiling as we broke apart, he sat me back on the ground as he said goodbye to the others before retreating to his ship.
Unbeknownst to me, a certain red bot was staring at me and A certain blue femme took noticed as she smirked.
Waving as Wheeljack's ship flew away I heard familiar footsteps stop next to me. Looking up I smiled at my guardian as he returned the gesture. Turning back to the others. "Lets go home."
As everyone shuffled into the now open ground bridge I looked back into the sunset painted sky one last time. 'Till we meet again Wheeljack.' And with that I passed through the swirling vortex.
WRITERS BLOCK IS A BITCH AND SO IS LIFE! Lol yeah, these chapters are coming out slowly with everything that's been going on lately, so I apologize. Also Shadowstalker and Nightshade are siblings! How cool is that?
Until next time, Shadowstalker out!