AN: Let's make this message quick!
demonboy121986 - I would really appreciate it; if you would space apart your paragraphs. Make them, two lines, minimum. Four lines, maximum. I'm not trying to criticize you. And I definitely don't want to be a jerk. I'm just telling you something that makes reading; a whole lot easier, and quicker.
Ryu wolf - I think the attitude of X-23, wouldn't be all that different. The only thing that would change; is that she would have a family. She would be loved; and also allow herself to love. Once she's no longer on the run. She would most likely, be protective of her new family.
LET'S JUMP INTO IT!
In the Autobot base, Optimus was reminding his troops, of an age-old prophecy; that has long since been passed down, throughout Cybertronian history. The prophecy spoke of a great cataclysm; following the alignment of all the planets. The weak would parish, in the shadow of a rising darkness. Ratchet always believed that the ancients, were referring to Cybertron; when they spoke of the apocalypse. But Cybertron has been dormant, for many centuries.
The other Autobots didn't take this, at face value. They knew about this legend, for ages. But they never gave it a second thought. So, they wondered why Optimus was concerned with them, now. The reason for his worries; was that the alignment of planets, was nearly upon them. It's endpoint, was Earth.
Some of the others, felt as if, that was a coincidence. Optimus, on the other hand, wasn't so sure. What's worse, the catastrophe was scheduled to take place, in just a few short days. What worried Optimus, the most; was that he feared those who thought that the prophecy spoke of them, specifically. He hated to imagine what Megatron would do to this world; if given the chance.
Later on, the children were in the base. But they were unaware of any doomsday talk. They were sitting on the couch, in the Human area, of the base. They were currently scrolling through pictures, on Raf's laptop. Things with Jack, were going surprisingly well. He and his dad, were finally on a path to healing. He went to visit Wanda, as much as he could. As a result, he wound up, learning more about her. For example, he discovered that Wanda came from a Jewish family.
On occasion, he brought her food, from K.O. Burger. It wasn't the healthiest of meals. But it was better than the hospital food; that she had been getting. After everything that's happened to Wanda; he just wanted to do a few nice things for her, if he could. At one point, he even brought along Raf and Miko, on one of his visits. Wanda seemed to get along, pretty well with them too. Now, she had three new friends.
The three kids, continued to look at pictures, online. They were looking at, alleged alien sightings. Jack was able to tell; that a lot of those photos, were hoaxes. As they continued scrolling; he gave his honest opinions. "Pass. Nah uh. Kid in a costume. Balloon. Nope. Uh, hold!" He said, as they got to the last picture. It was a photo of Bumblebee, in his vehicle form. "The camera sure loves Bee!" Jack joked.
"What can ya do? When you're a celebrity; you're paparazzi bate." Miko commented.
Ratchet grew concerned, when he saw Bumblebee, on the internet. Raf explained that it was a conspiracy website. Users would post evidence of close encounters, on the site. But thankfully, Raf was able to scrub the photo. He replaced it with a funny, talking cartoon cat. This made Ratchet chuckle. Something that the kids were not used to, at all.
"Ratchet actually laughed." Miko stated. At this point, Ratchet was trying to downplay that fact.
"Um, Optimus! You want to see something funny?" Asked Jack.
"No." Optimus answered, with seemingly emotionless certainty.
"Don't take it personally! Primes are built that way!" Arcee somewhat joked.
"Never seen Optimus laugh, cry, or lose his cool." Bulkhead added.
"While Optimus certainly keeps his emotions in check; I have known him, far longer than any of you have. And he was different, before he was made a Prime." Ratchet informed them. This took Raf, by surprise. He didn't know that Optimus wasn't always a Prime. Ratchet explained that on Cybertron; no one is born into greatness. Rather, one must earn it.
This caused a curious Miko, to form questions of her own. "So, different, how? We talkin' party animal?"
"No. No. Optimus was more like-" Ratchet trailed off; as he tried to think of the best way to describe his old friend. He took one look at Jack; before the answer, just came to him. "Jack." Ratchet said. Truth be told; weather Ratchet cared to admit it, or not. Optimus's past self was very reminiscent, to the way Jack is, now.
Jack was flattered. It was an honor, on virtually every level; to be compared to someone as great as Optimus. But a part of him, still couldn't believe it. "What? I'm nothing like-" Jack tried to say; but got interrupted by the sound of Agent Fowler's voice, on one of the monitors. He told them that there was a theft; at a Government facility. At first, he thought it could have been MECH. But it was later revealed, that it was the cons. He gave them a list of items, that they stole.
The bots put the pieces together. With the technology that was stolen, thus far. It was clear, that the Decepticons were building a new Space Bridge. Later on, they discovered that the cons; were currently robbing, another facility. They were looking for a power source, strong enough to get their Space Bridge, up and running. Fowler said the military would hold them off; until the bots could intercept. But Optimus reminded Fowler; that he could not condone the loss of even one human life. Against his better judgment; Optimus's words, convinced Fowler to call off the troops.
Optimus, Arcee, and Bulkhead; arrived at the military facility. They were going to stop the Decepticons. The Autobots were kicking butt. When Megatron got word of the Autobot's interference; he decided to attend to the matter, personally. So, he left the Nemesis, transformed into his alt mode; and flew to the site of the battle. Bumblebee was driving down the highway; with Raf, in his backseat. He had his remote controlled toy car, with him. They were planning to go racing.
Just then, Ratchet contacted Bumblebee. He told him that the others were in trouble. He said that if he dropped Raf off, at the nearest exit; that he could Bridge him back to base. Bumblebee apologized to Raf. He said that they would have gone racing; and that he didn't want to break his promise to his partner. But Raf understood. He told Bumblebee that they could go racing, some other time. However, what neither of them realized; was that Megatron was flying, high above their heads.
Megatron spotted the lone scout. He swooped down; and started shooting at Bumblebee. The scout dodged as much of the shots, as he could. Unfortunately, one did manage to hit him. It caused him to swerve, and come to a stop. Megatron flew away; as purple electricity, surged through Bumblebee's body. Bumblebee was hurt. But not nearly as bad as his partner was. When he looked through his mirror; he saw that Raf had fallen unconscious.
Back at the site of the battle; the Autobots had completely wiped out the invading Decepticon forces. When Megatron arrived on the scene, words were exchanged.
"Optimus." Megatron spoke.
"Megatron. Do you not see the folly; in trying to force a prophecy to fruition?" Optimus inquired.
"Why leave matters to fate; if one can forge one's own destiny? Ah, speaking of fate!" Megatron murmured, as he saw who was approaching, behind the three Autobots.
The Autobots turned around; only to see Bumblebee, cradling a hurt Raf, in his servos. Optimus, and the others; were all shocked, to bear witness to something so horrific. Arcee and Bulkhead, approached the now distraught, Bumblebee. "Raf!" Arcee said, as she took him from Bumblebee. "He's breathing. Barely!" Arcee did her best to emphasize the urgency of his condition.
"It would seem I swatted a bee. And squashed a bug!" Megatron mocked.
This made Bumblebee furious. He was madder than he's ever been. He already knew that Megatron could be cruel. He was the one who ripped out Bumblebee's voice box, after all. But this was evil. Even for him. Raf did nothing wrong. He was an innocent child. Megatron even had the gall, to gloat about hurting their friend.
In a fit of rage; Bumblebee pulled out his blasters, preparing to end the monster, that stood before him. But Bulkhead stopped him. Optimus then ordered Ratchet, to Bridge them back to base. Arcee was instructed to take care of Raf, and Bumblebee, back at base. The two Autobots, went through the portal; leaving Optimus, and Bulkhead, to deal with the Decepticons.
When Ratchet got the order to Bridge them back; he assumed that it must have been because they had an Autobot down. But, he had no idea how wrong he was. Not until they walked through that Bridge. The others saw Arcee, cradling Raf's motionless body.
"Raf!" Jack spoke, in shock.
"No!" Miko added.
"What happened?" Ratchet questioned, as he ran up to the two Autobots.
The Ground Bridge closed, behind them; before another word could be spoken. "Megatron." Arcee said.
"Quickly! Into my laboratory!" Ratchet commanded.
They had Raf, laying on a gurney; while strapped to a heart monitor. His pulse was faint, but steady. None of the others, knew what to do. It didn't help matters; when Ratchet started to freak out, either. "Rafael isn't responding. We must run diagnostics of his assemblage. Uh...vital statistics. My tools. They're all wrong!" Ratchet said, in a huff; as he threw one of his tools, across the room.
Jack knew that they were out of their element. So, he did the only thing that he could think of. "We need to call my mom." He stated, as he pulled out his cell phone; and dialed her number.
"Your mother may be a nurse. But, does she know anything about the effects of Energon, on the Human body?" Asked Ratchet.
Jack turned to Ratchet. "Do you know anything about the Human body?" Ratchet had a look of defeat, on his face. "Mom, it's urgent!" Jack spoke into his phone.
Ratchet was reminded of part of the Cybertronian prophecy. "The weak, will perish. Be strong, Raphael!" Ratchet bagged.
Jack told his mom what happened to Raf. June understood the seriousness of the situation. Within moments, after the call ended; the Ground Bridge came to life, and her car drove, right through it. The car came to a stop; and the Bridge faded away. June got out of her car. Jack went to greet her. But she didn't waste any time. "Grab my bag!" She told her son; as she made her way over to Raf.
Ratchet was running his scanner, over Raf's body. "Measuring the extent of the absorption; should determine the proper course of treatment." He said, while Nurse Darby, checked Raf's vitals.
"If I don't get this boy stabilized, now. He will not leave this table, alive. Do you understand me?" June asked Ratchet. Ratchet's only response, was a look of bewilderment. He had to accept, that compared to Nurse Darby's knowledge of Human medicine; he knew next to nothing. Jack brought his mom, her medical bag.
Seeing Raf, in this state; was enough to make Bumblebee, slam his fist into the wall. Arcee pinned him against the wall; and told him to calm down. She knew what it was like, to go through something like this. She said that revenge wouldn't help him; and that he had to keep his emotions, in check.
Later, Optimus called; wanting to know Raf's prognosis. Ratchet told him that it was too soon to tell. He blamed himself. They've accepted the Humans, into their lives. But his pride, prevented Ratchet from learning about their science, or medicine. Optimus told Ratchet to pull himself together. Raf needed him. Ratchet then went on to admit; that he also needed Raf. He was always there for them. To help, in any way they needed. For guidance. For tech support. Or sometimes, when they just needed a friend.
Soon, Bulkhead returned to base. June told Jack to get Raf in the car. He was going to the emergency room. Ratchet argued that regular doctors; wouldn't understand what was going on, with Raf. Not without, at least a decade of research. June said that she didn't have time to debate this. She prepared to transfer Raf. But before anything else, Miko posed a question to Jack.
"Isn't there something you can do? You're really good at fixing yourself, Jack. Can't you do the same for Raf?" Miko asked, out of concern, for her friend. Her question made Jack take a closer look at Raf. His skin was pale; and he was losing energy. Jack wasn't a doctor. But he had a pretty good idea; on what was causing these symptoms. He then began reaching into his mom's medical bag.
"What are you doing?" June questioned.
"I need a syringe." He eventually found one. "I just have a hunch, about something." Jack stuck the syringe, into Raf's arm; and extracted some blood. "Raf looks like he's suffering from blood poisoning. Or, some form of infection." Even before he could fully examine the liquid, in the syringe. Jack could just tell; that there was something wrong with Raf's blood. He could see things; that clearly, weren't supposed to be there. Jack walked over to a table; and placed a drop of blood, into an electronic microscope. His suspicions were confirmed.
"Ratchet, take a look at this!" He told him. An image was transferred, from the microscope, to one of the monitors. The scans showed, that Raf was infected, with Dark Energon. It was killing him, on a molecular level. All of his cells, were being broken down. Once this fact was known; Ratchet explained that the effects of an Energon blast, can be devastating to Autobots. But even more so, on a Human. Jack started to think of ways, that he could help his friend. Then, something came to him. He extended one of his claws; and started to make a small cut, on his finger.
"Ew!" Miko said, in disgust. "What are you doing, now?"
"I just have a theory, that I want to try out." Jack said, as his blood dripped onto a slide reel; and the wound on his finger, quickly healed. He put the slide, under the microscope; and added the Dark Energon to it. He examined it. Just like Raf's blood; his cells were being torn apart.
But after a moment; his cells began to repair, and pull themselves back together. They fought off the infection; until it was completely gone. This gave Jack an idea. "If someone was infected with this virus; and somehow managed to recover. Wouldn't their blood, then contain antibodies? Antibodies that could be extracted; and then synthesized, to make a cure for Raf's condition?" June knew where this was going. But before she could object; Ratchet spoke up.
"Someone with an exceptional healing ability? Yes. That might work."
"Hold on! This stuff is killing Raf! And now, you want to infect my son, with it? Didn't you say, Energon was devastating, to Humans?"
"Very much so. But this isn't a normal Human, we're talking about. Jack is a Mutant. His healing goes beyond anything, I've ever seen, before. If any one of us, stood a chance at surviving this. It would most likely, be him." Ratchet saw the way that June was now looking at him. She was glaring daggers, at him. As was Arcee. "But, rest assured! Even if that was the case. There's no way I'd ever condone that. I wouldn't risk the health, and well-being, of someone else. There is, actually, another way to-" Before Ratchet could finish; Jack had already picked up the syringe, of tainted blood.
"Jack, put down the syringe!" His mom instructed.
"I can't do that, mom. Raf is dying. I have to do this." Jack said, as rolled up his sleeve.
"No, you don't. I'm sure there's another way." June replied.
"Your mother's right. It's far too dangerous." Stated Ratchet.
"Dangerous?" Jack spoke. He then turned his sights, to his mother. "You should know, better than anyone; how good, my healing factor is. It's on par, with Logan's. I heal, faster than anyone else, on the planet. My body can repair itself, as quickly, as it's being torn apart. My healing, also prevents me from getting any diseases."
"Yes. Any Earthly, known diseases. But, this is an alien virus. It comes from another world. Your immune system, might not be able to tolerate it. I'm begging you. Please, stop! Jack, you don't know what that's going to do!" June warned her son.
"No. But I know what's going to happen, if we do nothing. Raf is like a brother, to me. I'm not just going to stand around; and watch him die. And I am not, letting him go through this, alone! I'm sorry!" Those were the last words that Jack spoke; before he injected the liquid, into his arm.
"JACK, NO!" Arcee and June shouted, in unison. But by then, it was already too late. It took a few seconds for the infection, to spread through Jack's body. Soon, his insides started to ache, in pain. His skin became pale, like Raf's. He was starting to sweat. He then fell, to the ground; as his body began to convulse.
Jack glanced at Raf's body, on the gurney. He had to beat this, for Raf. "I can do this. I CAN DO THIS!" Jack repeated, in a shout. After another moment, or two; the pain subsided. Jack's skin, returned to its natural color. He rose to his feet, feeling much better. They ran tests on Jack's blood. It did possess the qualities needed; to create a cure, for the infection. It was used, to synthesize an antidote. They then placed it into a bag; and ran it through an IV, connected to Raf's body.
"All we can do, now, is wait." June announced. A few moments went by, and nothing happened. Jack was getting worried. He wanted, so desperately, to save Raf. He told them that, if need be; he would give Raf, his blood. Thankfully, it didn't come to that. Raf's vitals were improving. He was getting better. Raf opened his eyes; and saw his friends, standing over him. June pressed against his veins. "Pulse rate, is stabilizing." She affirmed.
"Guys? Bee?" Raf murmured. Bumblebee let out a sigh, of relief. Miko was hugging Raf. She was glad that her friend was going to be alright. When the hug ended; she helped him, to sit up. "What happened?" Raf wondered. Miko was the one to explain things, to him.
"You were infected with Dark Energon. Jack saved your life."
"What?" Raf asked. He looked to Jack, in surprise.
"Yeah. He took some of your infected blood; and injected it into himself. He was in a lot of pain. But, his healing factor was able to fight it off. Because of this; we made a cure. For a little while; it didn't look like it was working. But Jack refused to give up. He said, that if it came down to it; he would even give you, his own blood." Miko recounted the chain of events. "So, since you gave Raf, your blood. Is he going to become a Mutant, now, or something?" She asked. The curiosity was evident, in her voice.
"No. Professor Xavier said that only someone with an active X-Gene, can become a Mutant." Jack responded, as he made his way over to Raf's gurney.
"Jack, thank you!" Said Raf.
"It's okay! You would have done the same, for me." Jack replied. Raf threw his arms around Jack's torso, in a hug. Jack returned the hug. When their embrace ended; Ratchet started to speak, again.
"It's good, that you're both ok. However, none of this was necessary. We could have easily neutralized Raphael's infection, with an infusion of regular Energon. The two forms of Energon; would have fought each other, to the death. After that, Raphael would have recovered." Ratchet proclaimed. This made everyone, stop, and stare, for a bit. They were all shocked. But none more so, than Jack.
"You mean, I didn't have to poison myself, first?"
"Well, I did try to tell you. But, by then; you had already made your decision." Ratchet clarified. Jack had a dumbfounded look, on his face. He could feel Raf, tugging on his shirt, to get his attention. He then looked to Raf.
"Don't worry, Jack! It's over, now. And we're both ok. I know what you risked for me. I'm grateful. You saved my life." Jack smiled at this. Knowing that Raf would get to live; made him forget about everything else.
Not long after Raf was cured; an injured Optimus, was brought back to base. He had gone to fight Megatron, alone. Only to discover that, Dark Energon; was now erupting from the Earth. Optimus sat down, on a medical slab. He was then informed, on everything that happened. "Jack! I question the wisdom, in infecting yourself; to produce a cure. What you did, was reckless. It could have brought an end, to something that is irreplaceable. The lives, of two valued friends." Jack hung his head, in disappointment.
"But, you did save Raphael's Life. And for that, you have my thanks." Jack perked up, at Optimus's words.
"Raf's lucky to be alive. So is Jack. If his healing factor had given out; we could have lost them both!" June declared. Optimus's face fell, in shame. The conversation, then shifted to the Dark Energon. Megatron found a volcano, full of the stuff. The Autobots were asking themselves, how. But Ratchet said that the question they should really be asking themselves, is, what. As in, what is the blood of Unicron doing on Earth? Miko misheard him; and assumed he was talking about a unicorn.
When the confusion was cleared up, it was elaborated; that Unicron, was an ancient evil, on Cybertron. Legend has it; that his fossilized blood, is what comprises Dark Energon. June asked if Unicron was some kind of Boogeyman. Ratchet didn't understand that reference. Miko told him, that was some make believe figure, meant to frighten people. After the second confusion was then understood; Ratchet stated, that Unicron, was very real. Although, he found it hard to believe; that his blood was the same stuff, that hurt Raf.
"I've heard enough. Jack, please! Help me get Raf into the car!" June said, as she moved Raf's gurney.
"Mom! I thought he was doing better?"
"Raf needs to be examined, by real doctors. And Raf's family needs to know what happened. His real family!" June clarified.
"Mom! Raf's family can't protect him. Not like we can. The Autobots, might be his best defense. Also, I've been training with the X-Men. Granted, we didn't cover anything; that could have prepared me, for this. But, I'm being taught. By Logan; and everyone else, at The Institute. Because of that, I'm learning how to fight; and how to properly use my powers."
"Your father thought the same thing, once. He thought that he could use his powers, to do some good. But the only thing that came, of that decision, was trouble. For him, and his family. I don't like the fact, that he's training you. I never did. I don't want you, put in danger. There's a part of me; that wants to forbid you, from seeing him, ever again. Yes, it would hurt. But I'd do it; if I felt I had to. And after all this; I'm seriously starting to consider it."
Optimus rose to his feet. "June! It deeply grieves me, that I have failed! But I will do everything, in my power; so that no harm comes to our Human friends. Or any Human, ever again."
June respected Optimus's stance. But she needed him to understand. "Optimus! They're children. They do not belong in your world. They should be worrying about grades. Prom dates. Pimples. Not, their own survival."
"Mom! Dark Energon is pouring out of the Earth. It doesn't do that! This could be about everyone's survival. Not just ours." Jack tried his best, to emphasize the seriousness of the situation.
"You're coming with me! All three of you. And they will not be coming back." June said that last part, to the Autobots. Optimus had no choice; but to agree with this. With a heavy Spark; he had to accept, that June was right. This didn't sit well with Miko, though.
"That's it? After all we've been through, together. See ya? What about our right to choose?" Miko inquired.
"That may fly on their planet. But not here, on Earth. Get in!" June instructed the other two kids, while she was helping Raf into the car.
Miko scoffed. "Do you really expect me to ride in that non-transforming vehicle?"
"Miko, I'm serious!" June warned.
"You're not my mother!" Miko taunted.
"Miko!" Bulkhead said, in a somewhat scolding tone. He was on the fence, about all of this. On the one hand; he didn't want her to leave. Miko was his friend. He had grown quite fond of her. But at the same time; he didn't want her to be disrespectful to people. Especially when they were the ones that were just trying to help her.
"Neither are you." Miko said to Bulkhead. Reminding him, that he also had no parental authority over her.
"Well, I am yours. Let's go, Jack!" June addressed her son.
Jack hung his head, slightly. He didn't know what to say. It's like, he knew what was right; but he also knew what was expected of him. He heard giant footsteps, approaching from behind him. This broke him out of his dilemma. He turned his head; and saw that it was Arcee, who was walking towards him. "She is your mom." Arcee stated, with a heavy Spark. She didn't want to lose Jack. But she knew that June was only doing what she believed in.
"I know. That's what makes this, so hard." Jack spoke, before he turned to his mom. "I'm staying. I'm sorry!" He said, before he slightly turned his head; in order to look away from her. The level of shame that Jack was feeling, made it impossible for him to even look at his mom. Out of the peripherals, of his vision; he saw his mom's face, turn into one of disappointment. She was hurt, knowing that he chose the Autobots, over his own mother. Jack didn't want to make her feel bad. He just wanted to do, what he believed was right.
Nurse Darby was unhappy. But there was very little she could do, to force her son to come with her. Knowing this, she walked over to her car; and shut the door, with Raf inside. Raf's face fell, as he placed his hands against the window. He couldn't believe that this was happening. Optimus offered the use of the Ground Bridge. But June refused, preferring to drive out, herself. So, that's what she did. She got in her car; and they drove off. Raf watched from the backseat, as they drove away from Bumblebee. This made him cry.
Fowler's image appeared on the monitor. He asked if they were aware of what was going on, in the world. Optimus informed him, that they knew about the volcano. Fowler then asked, if they also knew about the earthquakes. There were seven major earthquakes. All of the same strength; happening all over the world, at the exact same time as the volcanic eruption. These tremors could have been unrelated. If it wasn't for the fact, that they were all happening, at the exact same time.
Miko turned on the news. There were freak storms, happening, all over the planet. Things like, tsunamis, and lightning storms. If that wasn't bad enough. There was also an electric magnetic pulse; that was going around, wiping out a lot of the power grids.
Whatever was happening, it was happening, everywhere. Fowler asked if the cons built a weather machine. But Ratchet dismissed that thought. He didn't think that they could build one, that powerful. All these events managed to do; was reinforced the legend of the doomsday prophecy, to Optimus. He now believed that the appearance of Dark Energon, on Earth; wasn't a coincidence.
June and Raf, were driving down the highway; when it started to storm. When Raf saw lightning; he started to count how long it would be, until they heard thunder. Sure enough, there was the sound of thunder. Some lightning bolts, struck the road, in front of June's car. The car went swerving; as June tried to regain control. They eventually crashed against a telephone pole. Thankfully, no one was hurt. A tornado appeared, in front of the car. June panicked, and slammed on reverse. But because of the intense wind; the car could get no traction.
The car started to lift off of the ground. The one thing that neither of them expected, was to see Bumblebee; driving towards them, at breakneck speeds. Bumblebee transformed, and grabbed onto the car; as it was being lifted. He tried to steady himself, by using his other hand, to grab a telephone pole. He said something, in beeps. Raf translated. He said that, Bee told them to climb into his hands. Raf and June, climbed out the windows; and on to the hood of her car. The telephone pole, that was used to support Bumblebee; was swept up, by the wind. He was now using two hands, to hold the car.
Raf climbed into his hand. But then the hood; was ripped, right off of the car. The car went flying towards the tornado; and June was nowhere to be seen. Raf feared that she got blown away. But, to his surprise, and delight; he found her, still hanging onto the hood. They were riding back to base, safely; in Bumblebee's front seats. June thanked Bumblebee, for what he did. He gave a few beeps, in response. Raf told her that Bee said, that she was welcome.
Bumblebee pulled into the command center; and opened his doors for Raf and June. "Uh, we're back." Raf said, after he stepped out of Bee.
"And we are glad." Ratchet responded; before Bumblebee transformed back into bot mode.
Jack ran up to his mom. "Are you alright?" He asked.
"I will be. Jack..." June tried to say more.
"Mom..." Jack trailed off. He wanted to apologize. But it was hard for him to find the right words.
"I know. Me too!" She said, before she hugged him. She felt the same as him. His mom was just glad that he was okay. Turns out, her son made the right decision; by choosing to stay with the bots. Because he was at base, he remained safe. The hug ended, before she chose to speak again. "But, you're grounded, till you're 30." June saw the hurt look, on her son's face. "25." She lowered the count.
"Does this mean, I can still go to The Xavier Institute?" He asked, with hope.
"We'll talk about that, later." His mom replied.
Jack and June, went up to the Human area; to watch the news. It surprised June, to find out that these weather anomalies, were a global event. Just then, Agent Fowler came out of the elevator. "What have you learned, Prime? And you better not blow smoke up my-" Fowler stopped speaking, when he noticed that June was present. "Miss. Darby! What a nice surprise!" Fowler said, in a nervous stupor.
"Special Agent Fowler!" June greeted.
Ratchet explained that the magma, much like the earthquakes; all originated from the same spot. From the center of the Earth's core. Ratchet analyzed the data. They were small tremors; that were rising, and falling, consistently. Ratchet knew that he recognized this pattern. Then, it hit him, like a ton of bricks. "By the Allspark! If I convert these data points, to audio files." Ratchet said, as he began typing on his terminals. He instructed everyone to listen. The whole room was quiet; except for the sound of a heartbeat. The sound was coming from the monitors.
"A Cybertronian heartbeat?" Jack theorized.
"How is that possible? A heart pumps blood. There's nothing inside the Earth, to pump. Except-" June started to say.
"The blood of Unicron." Raf finished that statement, for June.
The Humans found it hard to imagine that anything could be in the Earth's core, and be alive. That completely threw everything they thought they knew about their planet, out the window. Optimus said that he feared that, the Earth's core, wasn't made up of magma; as Human science would believe. Instead, it seems as though, the planet's core was comprised of Dark Energon. Indicating that Unicron was the rising darkness, that the prophecy spoke of. Agent Fowler asked how they would stop Unicron from rising. But Optimus told him, that was the one thing; that the prophecy did not foretell.
June was still wondering how something could be living in the Earth's core. Optimus said that such a thing, was not unheard of, on Cybertron. He then went on, to tell a story. It was one, that many Cybertronians have heard. In the beginning, there was Primus, and Unicron. One was the incarnation of creation; the other, was that of destruction. For eons, Primus and Unicron, battled each other. Neither one would gain ground over the other, for very long. Then, Primus created the thirteen original Primes. The ones that came before Optimus.
The thirteen were able to defeat Unicron; and send him off world. When it was over; Primus became one with the core of Cybertron. This let him create new life, through the well of all Sparks. Primus, essentially, became God; to all of the Cybertronians. Meanwhile, Unicron was never heard from, again. Until now. Fowler thought that they could find the hole, that Unicron made, when he dug himself into the Earth; and fill it full of explosives. However, Optimus wasn't sure that it would be that simple.
"Agent Fowler! I do not believe that Earth became Unicron's home. But rather that, with time, and gravitational force; debris collected around the slumbering Titan." Optimus hypothesized.
"Forming your Earth, itself." Ratchet added to Optimus's analysis.
This caused Fowler's face, to drop. All the Humans present, had to come to grips with the fact that their planet was a giant Cybertronian. Humanity had been living on a transformer, since the dawn of their time. The Autobots put the pieces together. They confirmed that the only reason that Unicron would be awakening now; would be due to the magnetic pull, caused by the planetary alignment.
"Okay. Well, what happens now; when Unicron wakes up, from his billion year nap?" Asked Jack.
"Yeah. Does he stretch, and kapow? Earth poofs to dust?" Miko wondered.
June could see a look of uncertainty on Optimus's face. That scared her. This wasn't the world, that she had come to know. This was a world of Autobots, and Decepticons. The very fact, that the Autobots didn't know what was going to happen; frightened her, very much. "You don't know. Do you?" She asked.
Optimus tried to come up with an answer, to give them. "My guess is, that Unicron has transcended physical form, as we know it. Nonetheless, we must find a way to ensure that this, force of nature, never fully awakens. The fate of your planet, depends upon it!"
Optimus was walking down a valley, of a rocky canyon. The point of him being there; was to locate any trace of Unicron's presence. The area was rich in ore. Given everything that they now know. It would stand to reason, that the natural metals, found within the Earth; would be extensions of Unicron. His limbs, so to speak. This indicated, that Unicron was indeed, waking up. That's why all the tremors were happening. Ratchet detected a surge in Unicron's Spark activity; at Optimus's current location. Optimus assured Ratchet, that he would proceed with caution.
Unicron became aware of Optimus's presence. Unicron's face appeared, on one of the walls of the canyon. Unicron broke free of the wall; forming a body, made out of rock. A fight ensued, between Optimus, and Unicron. During the fight, Optimus found a point, to put away his weapons. He explained that he didn't come here to fight. He only wished to talk. Unicron stopped his assault, long enough, to hear Optimus out. Optimus begged for mercy. Not for himself. But for the Earth, and it's people.
Optimus went on to elaborate. He spoke of the Humans; and the now, newly discovered Mutants. Both species, relied upon Unicron. For life, and sustenance. Optimus explained that Mutants were Human beings; that have evolved to the point, of having special abilities. He argued for the survival of both species. Because both, were of value, to him. Unicron was God, to everyone, and everything, that lived on Earth. To awaken, now; would be to cause the destruction of countless species, that originated from his greatness. That was how Optimus phrased it.
When Optimus was asked if he viewed Humans, and Mutants, as Unicron's creations. He answered honestly. He said that he did. Unicron was, to the people of Earth; what Primus was, to the people of Cybertron. However, Unicron didn't see it, that way. Frankly, he was disgusted by the whole notion. He viewed Humanity, as a parasite; and Mutants, as an aberration. He declared that they too would know his wrath; once he was finished with Optimus. He then continued his attack.
Optimus was blasted to the ground. Trying to open a dialogue, instead of fighting. This led Unicron to believe that the line of Primes, had now become weak. He was prepared to strike his enemy down. Although, Optimus wasn't going to give up, without a fight. He managed to defeat Unicron. Unfortunately, that was just one body. Unicron spawned many bodies. Each instilled with his own consciousness. Optimus was now surrounded.
When the Autobots learned of the trouble that Optimus was in; they were preparing to mobilize. But Optimus stopped them. He reasoned that Unicron couldn't be defeated, by conventional means. He was after Optimus. Making this fight, Optimus's, and Optimus's, alone. Optimus fought bravely; but was eventually, overpowered. Things were looking dire. Until the other Autobots showed up, to give aid. They protected their leader, from the spawns of Unicron. The Autobot leader, ordered his troops to return to base; but they refused.
They suggested, but he should be the one to return to base, instead. Optimus explain that Unicron would be able to find him, anywhere on Earth. Even their base, would only shield him, for so long. Ratchet begged Optimus to listen to reason. He said that if Optimus didn't survive; then neither would that planet. There would be no one left, who could save it. Thankfully, Optimus saw the logic in that; and agreed to withdraw. He, and his Autobots; fought their way out of the canyon. They drove, for a while. Only to be stopped, by Unicron's latest avatar.
This new vessel, was the size of a mountain. They opened fire; but their attacks did next to nothing, against Unicron's new body. Unicron slammed his fist into the ground; sweeping the other Autobots away. Optimus continued shooting. But Unicron's next attack; caused him to become buried, by rocks. Optimus started to dig himself out; only to see Unicron raise his giant foot, preparing to stomp him. The others, rushed to his aid. But there was nothing that they could do. Oddly enough, Unicron's body was destroyed by Energon blasts; coming from above.
When the dust settled; it was revealed that Megatron was the one who saved Optimus. When Ratchet heard of Megatron's appearance; it was assumed that he was allied with Unicron. But hearing that he saved Optimus, sort of, dashed that. Optimus broke free of the rocks; with Megatron, pointing his fusion cannon, right at him. It would have been so easy to end him; right here, and now. The Autobots aimed their blasters at Megatron. But, in a surprised twist; instead of destroying him, Megatron actually helped Optimus, to his feet.
Optimus, and Megatron, were still enemies. Both still shared a desire to end the other. However, Megatron proposed an alliance, between himself, and the Autobots. The point of said alliance, would be to destroy their one true enemy. "Join me, in destroying our shared enemy! Unicron, The Chaos Bringer." Megatron declared. Unicron, and him, should have been on the same side. But apparently, they had a falling out. Ratchet was still listening, over the comm link.
"HA! Absurd. Unicron is evil incarnate. If Megatron was to take any side; why would it be ours?" Ratchet Inquired.
Optimus had the answer to that question. After all, he had known Megatron, for a long time. "Because Megatron's pride would never allow anyone, other than himself, to rule this planet." Optimus stated, with absolute certainty.
"You know me, all too well, Optimus." Megatron commented.
"You lead an army of cons. Why come to us?" Bulkhead questioned.
"Because this particular endeavor requires something, beyond the realm of my command. The power of a Prime." Megatron said, as he gestured to Optimus.
"Then, I guess we don't need you!" Bulkhead spat back.
Megatron then proclaimed, that even if Optimus was the only one who could defeat Unicron; he, himself, remained the only one who could guide them to Unicron. Dark Energon runs through Megatron's veins. Thus, he could hear Unicron's thoughts; and anticipate his movements. "Optimus, our past alliances. Autobot, Decepticon; no longer matter. Not while Unicron lives."
"THE PAST ALWAYS MATTERS!" Ratchet shouted, as he slammed his fist into his console. Megatron then assured them, that the truce between Autobots and Decepticons, would only last; so long as it was mutually beneficial. Once it was over; Megatron would conquer this world, his way. Amazingly, he was very upfront, about that. "Aligning with the lesser of two evils; is still, siding with evil." Ratchet lectured. Megatron pointed out, that up until now; they've only experienced a fraction of Unicron's power. Further reinforcing the idea, of an alliance.
Arcee was the first one to remind Megatron, that his similar quest for power; was the same one that destroyed Cybertron. Megatron promised that it would be different this time. This time, there would still be a planet for him to rule. The question remained, even if they did team up; how were they supposed to get to Unicron? He was down, in the Earth's core. Optimus, knew that the only way, was to use the Ground Bridge. Ratchet, strongly disagreed. Bridging into Unicron, was too dangerous. Besides, they didn't have an immunity to Dark Energon. Not like Megatron did.
Megatron argued this, as another reason; why the team up, made sense. If the Autobots were to open a Bridge into the Earth's core; Megatron could then guide them, straight to Unicron's Spark. But that just left one other question. "Optimus, even if we survive the jump. How are we supposed to stop Unicron?" Arcee asked. Both Optimus, and Megatron, already knew the answer.
"With The Matrix of Leadership." Optimus stated.
"What is that?" Fowler inquired.
"A vessel of pure energy. The collective wisdom, of the Primes." Ratchet answered.
"Do we have time for a scavenger hunt? I mean, where's Optimus supposed to find this Matrix?" Asked Jack.
"Optimus does not need to find it. He carries it, within him." Ratchet clarified.
The plan made sense. Unleash the power of The Matrix, into Unicron's Spark; and return him to stasis. Although, Jack wondered if it would be at all possible, to siphon him out of the Earth's core. But Raf had to remind Jack; that Unicron wasn't in the Earth's core. He was the Earth's core. Ratchet reaffirmed that statement. If they tried to tamper with the Earth's core, in any way. It could have disastrous consequences, for the whole planet. Tragically, Unicron is a part of the Earth. He always has been. That's how it must remain.
Unicron formed another gigantic body; right in front of the collective Cybertronians. A Ground Bridge opened; leading back to the Autobot base. Megatron said that he would buy them some time, to escape; and to consider his offer. He transformed into his jet mode; and started firing at Unicron. This gave the Autobots time to enter the Ground Bridge.
Not long after that; everyone had made it, safely back to base. "I know that desperate times, call for desperate measures. But, bringing Megatron here?" Ratchet pondered the daring choice, that Optimus was intending to make.
"How can you even think about letting that monster near these children; after what he did to Raf?" June asked, in a shocked manner; while placing her hands on Raf's shoulders. As a mother, she would like nothing more; than to keep that evil creature, away from the kids. Optimus didn't like the idea of letting Megatron into their base, either. Them, cooperating with one another; was the only way to save the world. But that's not the same as saying that he would let Megatron hurt their friends. Optimus would die, before he let that happen.
"He will be closely monitored. And only allowed to linger; long enough, to send us on our journey. Not one moment more." Optimus reassured everyone.
Agent Fowler asked what would stop Megatron, from calling in an airstrike; once he knew where their base was. Optimus reasoned, that by using the Ground Bridge; Megatron would be unable to gauge the physical location of the base.
"Optimus, what's going to happen to you; once all your Matrix energy is released?" Inquired Jack.
"The power within The Matrix; has not previously been utilized, in this particular manner." Informed Optimus.
"But, you have an idea, don't you?" Jack continued on, with his questions. He was worried about his friend. Saving the world, was important. But Jack didn't want to lose Optimus, to accomplish that. Optimus then turned, to address his Autobots.
"Autobots, if Human kind is to be saved. I have no choice, but to proceed. But you do." That's the kind of leader that Optimus was. He would never force anyone to sacrifice themselves. Or ask them to do something, that they were totally against. He believed in giving people, the element of choice. Especially if they were those, that served under him. He waited for his Autobot's collective answers.
"Well, I don't know about Human kind. But I'm willing to do it. For Miko." Bulkhead proclaimed.
"For Jack." Arcee said. Bumblebee also gave off a few beeps; indicating that he would do this, for Raf. The decision was made. The Autobots would sacrifice their lives, if need be. All to protect, their Human friends. Whether they said anything, or not; the Humans felt honored, by their friends declaration. So, with heavy hearts, and Sparks; they called Megatron, and told him that they were ready to receive him. The Ground Bridge opened; and Megatron started to walk through. The Autobots got the Humans, out of sight; for their own safety.
Miko was digging her heels into the floor. Ratchet had to keep pushing her; just to make sure, that she would go with the others. "No fair! I've never seen him. Why do we have to hide?" She asked, before Ratchet stopped pushing her.
"Because I said so." Ratchet scolded. Miko then joined the others, in the adjacent hallway. Megatron entered the base; with Autobot blasters, pointed right at him. Nobody was taking any chances, when it came to him. The Ground Bridge, then ceased.
"So, this is where the magic happens. Quaint!" Megatron jested. The Humans were watching everything; from their hidden spot, in the hallway. Raf was filled with so much anger. He hadn't forgotten what Megatron did to him. In a fit of rage; he ran out, to confront the Decepticon. The other Humans, ran after Raf; to try to stop him.
"You!" Raf said, with spite. Arcee got between Raf, and Megatron. Her blasters were pointed directly at the Decepticon leader.
"Ah! You're looking much better than the last time we met, little one. Humans. Resilient." Said Megatron.
"Come on, Raf! He isn't worth it." Jack spoke. June took Raf with her; as she rejoined everyone. Megatron took a glance at Jack. That was all it took; for the spark of recognition, to strike.
"And you. I never forget a face. Even that of a Human." Megatron was speaking of the time in the Energon mine. The very same mine; where he found himself, at Jack's mercy. Jack also remembered that time. He turned, to face Megatron. He raised up, his right fist; and unsheathed his claws. Jack didn't care if their enemies knew about him. He intended to make a point.
"You don't know as much as you think you do, Megatron. Keep that in mind; the next time you decide to do something stupid, like attacking my friends!" Jack threatened. He then retracted his claws; and began to walk away. Fowler was blown away, by these turn of events. Clearly, he had questions. He had never seen Jack; do anything like that, in the past. The others would have to find the time, to fill him in; on all the things that he missed.
"Interesting! Your pets, are full of surprises." Megatron murmured. Before leaving, Miko swore to Megatron; that if he double crossed anyone, he would regret it. Fowler had to drag Miko away. Optimus told Ratchet to acquire the Ground Bridge coordinates, from Megatron. While this was happening, Optimus went over to the hallway; that the Humans were walking down. He managed to catch Jack; while he was isolated from the group.
"Jack! " Optimus said. Jack turned around, to face the Prime. Optimus check to see if anyone was listening; before focusing his attention, back on Jack. He knelt down; to be eye level with the young Mutant. "Will you keep something, for me?"
"Sure." Jack responded. Optimus held, in his hand, a huge device; at least, by Human standards. It looked like a data storage device. It was flat, and silver; except for the blue parts, that made up its inner workings. As Optimus extended his servo to Jack; the device started to collapse. Its parts were shifting; until the device was small enough, to be grabbed, by Jack. The appearance of the object, didn't change. The only thing that was different; was that it could now be held, by Human. "What is it?" Jack asked, as he held the device, in his hand.
"It is...the key to the Ground Bridge power supply." Optimus stammered out.
"Ok. But, shouldn't Ratchet have this?"
"Perhaps. But I've been impressed by how much you have matured, since we first met. As such, I feel you have earned the responsibility of safeguarding this important device, until I return." Optimus spoke. Jack wasn't sure if Optimus was right about him, or not. After all, he's done some pretty reckless things. Especially after his powers showed up. Threatening Megatron, didn't feel very mature. Revealing what he was; probably wasn't too smart, either. But regardless of all that; Jack was just happy to know, that Optimus trusted him.
"I won't let you down." Jack declared. The pact between the two, had been made. Optimus went back to the command center. The Ground Bridge was finally opened to the right coordinates. Megatron went through, first. As the Autobots were leaving; some of them looked back, to their Human friends.
When they were all through the Ground Bridge; it closed behind them. The Earth's core, looked nothing like, how Human science chose to describe it. It was a huge, open area. Bridges, and scaffolding; were littered, throughout the pathway. Arcee asked how long it would take for Unicron to notice their presence. Megatron told her, not to fool herself. It would have been impossible for Unicron; not to know, that they were there.
Back at base, there was a moment to talk. They explained to Fowler; that Jack was a Mutant. Which then, led to them; telling him what a Mutant was. Jack's origins, were now, fully explained. But it was still going to take Fowler; some time, to get used to all of this.
After that, everyone started listening to the news. The weather was going crazy. It was like, the Earth was trying to tear itself apart. If people only knew; that's exactly what was happening. The news broadcast, was soon cut out. June tried to distract the kids; by offering to play a game. But they weren't having any of it. "That tears it!" Fowler said, as he marched past Nurse Darby.
"Where are you going?" June asked him.
Fowler spun around, To face everyone. "I can't just sit on my hands; while the world spins out of control."
"And what, exactly is it; that you intend to do?" Ratchet questioned.
"Anything. Hook up with my boys, at The Pentagon. Figure out a way to bury that monster, for good."
"In the event, that Optimus can't?" Ratchet found it hard to believe; that Fowler would succeed, if Optimus couldn't.
"Don't you mean, Optimus, and Megatron?" Fowler shot back.
"No one here, is thrilled about this arrangement, Agent Fowler. Myself, included. But, with Optimus, and Megatron, together again-"
"Whoa, wait! Again?" Jack blurted out.
"Megatron, was an Autobot?" Raf asked.
"Optimus, was a con?" Miko added to the questions.
"No. On either count. But, there was a time, back on Cybertron; in the twilight hours of the golden age. When Optimus and Megatron, were not, sworn enemies." Ratchet spoke. He then began to tell a story. He asked if they remembered when he said that Optimus wasn't always a Prime. He then told them, that he wasn't always Optimus, either. His original name, was Orion Pax. Long before he was a Prime; he was a clerk, in the Iacon hall of records. He became concerned, with the corruption, and inequality, on Cybertron.
Orion was inspired by the exploits, of a gladiator. A gladiator, who named himself after one of the thirteen original Primes, Megatronos. Megatronos challenged the current status quo, of Cybertron. He demanded equality, among the masses. He went from gladiator, to revolutionary; and he quickly gained a loyal following. Orion, eventually, started to correspond with Megatronos. Orion considered him, a mentor. When Megatronos left behind, the arena; he saw fit, to shorten his name. From then on; he would be forever known as, Megatron.
Megatron approached the high council, of Cybertron. He proposed his idea, of a just society. It was then, that he revealed who he really was, to everyone. He suggested overthrowing the old guard, by force. Then he arrogantly demanded to be named the next Prime. However, Orion didn't believe that it was necessary to use violence, to achieve justice. When he spoke to the council; he spoke of things, such as fairness, and compassion. Without realizing it, Orion had managed to touch the Sparks of the council.
It had been a long time, since someone had earned the right to be a Prime. But the council, had judged Orion, to be worthy. The only way for someone to truly become a Prime; was to earn the legendary, Matrix of Leadership. After his humiliation, Megatron cut all ties with Orion. Megatron waged a savage war; along with his army of followers. By then, he had named his followers, Decepticons. Despite everything, Megatron still had a strong desire to possess The Matrix. Eventually, the war poisoned Cybertron, to its very core.
Orion journeyed to the core; hoping to fix, what had been done. It was then, that he found himself before their creator, Primus, himself. Primus looked into Orion; and by extension, into his Spark. He sensed the innate nobility, within Orion. He bestowed upon him, The Matrix of Leadership. Turning a surprised, and humbled, Orion Pax, into Optimus. The last of the Primes.
That story kinda reminded Jack, of Professor X, and Magneto. Just like Optimus and Megatron; they were once, on the same side. They were friends. But much like Optimus and Megatron; they had a difference of opinion. Their paths diverged. Now, the two were sworn enemies. One fights for Mutant supremacy. The other, for peaceful coexistence. It's like, the comparisons between the four of them, are never ending.
"So, Optimus got The Matrix from Cybertron's core. And now he's going to give it to Earth's." Miko was putting the pieces together.
"What's to stop Megatron from just, claiming The Matrix, for himself; this time around?" Asked Jack.
"Only his greater desire to save this planet; so that he may in turn, conquer it. As he so, compellingly, argued. Provided, the lord of the Decepticons; can ever be fully trusted." Ratchet said, with a fair amount of skepticism.
The team, at the Earth's core; were making their way, to Unicron's Spark. But, they encountered resistance. Strange creatures, started flying, overhead. These creatures, were a part of Unicron's defense system. His antibodies, so to speak. The battle was hard. But they managed to fight their way through.
Back at the base, the remainder of Team Prime; had a new problem. They lost the ability, to communicate with their friends; as well as, track their life signals. Raf feared the worst. He asked if them not being able to receive their signals; would be the same, as them being dead. Ratchet said that's sometimes the case. But a more likely answer, in this instance; would be the severe interference to his equipment, caused by the electromagnetic anomalies. Raf and Miko, then asked how they were going to bring the bots home; if they couldn't track them, or call them.
Ratchet was brought out of his thoughts; by the sound of metal, banging against metal. He turned towards the source of the sound; and saw Jack, tapping the device that Optimus gave him, against a metal railing. "Where did you get that?" Ratchet inquired.
"Optimus. Honestly, I don't know why he gave me the key to the Ground Bridge power supply." Jack said, as he held out the device, for Ratchet to take.
"Jack, there is no key to the Ground Bridge." Ratchet informed him. He knew, full well, what Jack was holding. As well as, the importance, of which it symbolized.
"Well, then...what is this?" Jack questioned, while he held the device, close to his face. For a brief moment; he could swear that he saw it, give off the shine, of a blue light.
"That is the key, to Vector Sigma."
"The what?"
"You are holding one of Cybertron's, most important relics." Ratchet clarified.
"I shouldn't have this." Jack stated, as he tried to give the key to Ratchet.
"Optimus entrusted it to you, Jack." Ratchet knew that Optimus must of had a reason for giving it to Jack. Thus, he refused to take it from him.
"But, that doesn't make any sense. Why?"
"Because he doesn't plan on coming back." Ratchet informed, with a somber tone of voice.
Optimus and Megatron, made it to Unicron's Spark; while the other Autobots ran interference, for them. They were fighting with the antibodies; so that Optimus could finish this. Then, another unforeseen problem, arose. Unicron was trying to take control of Megatron; through the symbiotic link, that they both shared. He ordered him to destroy the last Prime. Megatron resisted, as best as he could. When he finally does slay Optimus; it will be done, by his own hand, and because he chose to do so.
The seismic activity, around the world, was getting worse. Even at the base, they could feel it. The base began to shake, violently. Ratchet shielded the children; in an effort to protect them. Optimus would let this go on, no longer. He was calling upon all of the power, of The Matrix of Leadership. Unicron took control of Megatron; and tried to use him, to stop Optimus. But he was too late. Optimus used the power of The Matrix, to light their darkest hour. A wave of energy, erupted from The Matrix; forcing Unicron, back into stasis.
When Unicron was put back to sleep; all the natural disasters, around the Earth, just stopped. As a result of this; things also started to calm down, back at base. The shaking ceased; and they were once again, able to track the Autobots. Everyone took this, as a sign to celebrate. It was over, and their friends were okay. In a moment of excitement, Fowler hugged June. This surprised her; and weirded Jack out. After a moment, Fowler realized what he was doing; and released June.
"You're lucky Logan didn't see that!" Jack joked. But Fowler didn't really get it.
At the Earth's core, Megatron rose to his feet; while Optimus was still on the ground. With their shared objective complete; their alliance, was no longer needed. Megatron was ready to end Optimus. But nothing could have surprised him more, than what happened, next. When Optimus saw him; he did not address him as Megatron. Instead, he called him Megatronos. Indicating, that he had lost his memories, of today's events. It's possible, that he also lost any knowledge, of being a Prime. Simply put, Optimus Prime, was no more. Now, all that remained, was Orion Pax.
Megatron saw an opportunity, in this. A chance to manipulate his old friend, over to the Decepticon cause. He helped Orion, to his feet. When the Autobots entered the room; Megatron lied, and identified them, as their mortal enemies. A Ground Bridge, leading back to The Nemesis, opened up. Megatron told Orion to run through it; while he held them off. Orion did as he was instructed. Soon, he and Megatron, were gone. The Autobots were left with no choice, but to return to base, without their leader.
When they arrived home; they explained what happened, to the rest of their friends. They said that Optimus, willingly went with Megatron. He didn't even seem to know his own name. Ratchet had a theory, on what was going on. When Optimus surrendered The Matrix of Leadership; he lost more than the collective wisdom, of the Primes. He also lost, his own memories. They had to find a way to get him back. To help him. Just as he would do for them, if they were in need.
AN: I sorry that this chapter is so long. Originally, I thought it would just be 3 episodes. But I actually ended up, putting together 4 episodes. The reason for this; is that I wanted to get all of the "One Shall Rise" story arc, out of the way. I'm going to do the next chapter, the same way, as well. Just to complete "Orion Pax" , all in one go.
Also, I'm not sure if Wanda was Jewish; in the series of "X-Men Evolution" . But in the movie version of X-Men; Magneto was Jewish. So, I chose to draw upon that, for inspiration. Going by that logic; she could be Jewish. We don't know.
And remember, if you didn't like something about this chapter; then that's all you have to say. Don't go out of your way, to be a jerk, in the reviews! Be honest, but fair!
STAY AWESOME!