Orion pondered for a moment.

"What was he- I mean, what was I like before? When I was Optimus?"

"Well," Ratchet began, "Not too different from yourself."

"You're lying to me." Orion was a little hurt that his old friend felt the need to lie. "Please, Ratchet, tell me. I need to know."

"It doesn't matter, Orion. You are not Optimus any more." Ratchet solemnly stated. Orion recognised the disappointment in the medic's voice.

"Does me no longer being Optimus Prime upset you?" Orion asked slowly, not sure if he wanted to know the answer.

"Of course not!" Ratchet's snappy reply was indication enough that his words were not the same as his inner feelings. "It'll just take some getting used to." He added swiftly in a softer tone.

"I'm sorry." Orion apologised.

"You have nothing to be sorry for, Orion. Do not blame yourself for this. You've been through a lot. I thoroughly suggest as your medical advisor that you allow yourself to rest."

"But I-"

"The rest of the team will be able to handle any problems that come our way, Orion. We don't want you straining yourself."

"Ratchet..."

"Orion. Rest."