Bumblebee just laid on the berth her gaze locked on to the ceiling. She peered over to the hall that led to Ratchet and First-Aids quarters. Her optics having to adjust to the darkness that consumed the medbay.
(It's been maybe 2 or 3 weeks now? A month at most and yet I'm still on lock down? Honestly, I have stop keeping tabs after like day 3. Luckily the jet twins come by often an keep me laughing and up to date. Smokescreen even pops every now and again. Apparently, they have Barricade and Knockout on lock down till further notice…I hope they both are ok. So much has happened. Its just a mess from what they have told me.)
She turned on her side towards the medbay entry door; A heavy vent escaped her lips.
(I haven't heard anything about the Lamborghini twins though. I hope they're ok and their relationship is stable and good now. I think I've seen Mirage in here maybe once or twice, but I think they were for check ups.)
She sat up and pulled her legs to her chestplate; her processor trying to untangle her thoughts. Peering over to the clock as it read 5am. "I've been up for about an hour now…" the sound of footstep catching her attention.
"Good early morning young Bee." First-aid gave a spark warm smile at the her.
"Oh, morning Ms. Aid."
"I will never understand why u call me that" she gave a soft laugh to Bee before quietly starting to move a few things about.
"It just kinda stuck, and I thought it was different. Do you not like it?" Bumblebee tilted her helm a bit in confusion
"Don't be silly I love it! its polite and unique, just like you." Bee just looked at her for a moment before a warm smile stretched on her faceplate. "You're up awfully early."
"yea just about an hour maybe."
"Primus child! Why so early!"
"Hee hee just…you know…thinking…" a soft smile etched on her faceplate.
Firsta-aid sat next to Bee her servo gently rubbing her helm and placing a kiss on her forehelm. "Unfortunately, I can not fix that with medicine. Know that if you ever need an audio or anything I'm here for you ok?"
"Ok."
"Now, I must go run an errand, would like to come with me? Stretch your legs and what not?"
"As much as I would like to, I don't think Ratchet will be happy with that. I don't want to be on Elitas bad side especially not this early."
"You aren't going by yourself, you'll be with me. Besides if you just lay in that berth 24/7 healing going to turn to sores. Then you know, I don't want you to go stir crazy."
"You have no idea…"
"Then its settle I'll unhook you an everything. Then you can stretch, and we'll be on our way!" She put the data-pad down and went to unhook her I.V drip an deactivated her security band. "There! Now all I must do is give these data pad to Perceptor. Afterwards head to Firestar and give her a quick evaluation."
Bumblebee hopped up eagerly, stretching out her joints like no tomorrow. The sound of her gears snapping and crackling from lack of use echoed through the medbay. "Yay! Okay! Just this little box?"
First-aid just laugh at the young scout. "Yep, that's it; grab it and follow me."
Bumblebee slid off her medical band and put it on her berth unaware that Ratchet was up. Bee snatched up the box and followed right behind First-aid. She casually kept pace beside her; enjoying their much needed girls talk until they arrived at the lab. First-aid entered and greeted Perceptor who was chatting with the Jet twins and Wheeljack. Perceptor greeted the medic back with the jet twins peering over his shoulder.
"Ah, I was not expecting you to bring company. Hello, Bumblebee I see you are doing well."
"Sorry Percy,I needed an extra pair of servos."
"Hey everyone! Omp twins?!" Bumblebee put the box down next to preceptor desk and gave a cheerful wave.
"Bumblebee!" the two snatched up the young scout who was more then enjoying the attention. The youngster's laughter filled the lab.
"I see you have finally released your captive." Preceptor gave First-aid a spark felt smile.
"Something like that; thought I would bring her out for a moment. You know let her stretch her legs and do something. I know she gets antsy when she doesn't move about much."
"Surprise she hasn't paced a hole in the medbay floor." Wheeljack busted out laughing.
"Actually, she doesn't rest at night like Ratchet thinks she does. She paces a lot yea, but I think it's the only time she thinks she can get up an out of that berth." First-Aid handed over the data pad and turned to Bee. Whom was deep in conversation with the twins. "Bumblebee; go ahead and hand over those data pads to Percy."
"Hu? Oh, right!" Bee pick up the data pads from inside the box and ran them over to the older scientist. Who rewarded her with a pat on the helm.
"Thank you, Bumblebee." Percy had a small smile on his faceplate as he patted the younger bot.
"You're Welcome!" She gave a smile and ran back to the twins and picked up where their conversation had left off.
"Think that's the happiest I've seen those three in a long time." Wheeljack stood with a smile plastered on his faceplate.
"Agreed especially the twins." Percy started organizing the data pads by required information.
"What do you mean?" First-aid tilted her helm in a bit of confusion at the scientist statement.
"Well we notice after Bee was sent off Jetfire and Jetstorm kept to their selves. Almost as if they had a 2 year span of depression. They wouldn't speak to us about what was bothering them or anything."
"Hmm…" the medic cupped her chin for a moment.
"What's wrong?" Wheeljacks fins lit up with every word.
First-Aid got a bit closer to the two lowering her voice. "Somethings going on around here that's only bothering the younger bots."
"Like what though? Your theories First-aid?" Perceptors kept organizing the data pads' but his audio listened carefully to what the medic had to say. Wheeljack stood close by listening as well.
"I'm not sure; I mean I have my suspicions. However, that doesn't make them true or reliable for that matter."
"Regardless the jet twins seem to be more agitated lately. Angrier; more or less" Percy was starting to place the pads in the files for later experiments.
"Any ideas why?" Wheeljacks mask slid back so that his voice would be clearer. Wheeljack glanced at Perceptor hearing a heavy sigh escape percy lips.
"Please, I…I would rather not think about that."
"Sorry Perc, but you know as well as I do that it still bothers them, no need to hide it. It's a fact that we must own up to…"
"Yes. you are correct, but I do not wish to bring up bad memories…If I was simply more careful back then perhaps things would have been different…"
"Percy…" Wheeljack could do nothing more than display a slight frown at the scientist.
"Everyone has made horrible mistakes during these war times, I am no exception. Whatever happen I'm sure the twins do not blame you. I mean look at them now. You two have raise them quite well. Whatever kind of experiment you did on them I'm sure over time they will forgive you." First-aid patted Perceptor shoulder soothingly.
"Still doesn't excuse how careless we were being. We were so tunnel focus that we didn't care about anything except being successfully. If we were cautious and aware of the effects of our project things wouldn't have escalated the way it did. I just…I just didn't know the chemicals from our experiments were leaking out to near by areas. The chemical we were using at the time cause a negative reaction in the fire pit at the repair dump that the twins were working at."
"We heard the explosion an went to check it out. That's when we found the twins and decided to use them. We…we did the same thing to them that Megatron was doing on the lambo twins." Wheeljack gave a soft unpleasant chuckle. "Primus after everything panned over the testing and everything was successful…They let us know just how much they hated us. They refused to eat anything from us, look at us, frag they even refused to socialize with anybot."
"Over time they started to lose their strength. Once Red found out he was not to happy about what was going on. She was beyond furious and barged in their quarters and forced them to drink the energon cubes. The twins did a number on Red Alert; though Red Alert did actually get them to feed." Percy pulled out a chair and hunched forward.
"Why was she so upset."
"She said we didn't do all that hard work for our results to fall over and offline. She burst inside of their quarter cuffing them in stasis and forcing them to drink 2 cubes of energon every day. They cried and screamed; kicked and fought as much as they could. Even spit the energon back at Red Alert making her even more mad. Percy and I tried our best to pull Red away from the two of them." WheelJack peered down at Perceptor whose helm was in his servo.
"They were just screaming; blaming us for everything especially her death." Perceptor just shook his helm in his servos.
"Her?" First-Aid tilted her helm in confusion.
"Sorry, she is their carrier. She was killed during one of the autoboot raids. Apparently, she never returned that day. Then on top of all that the explosion happened that exact night that she was supposed to returned. Once they found out that their carrier had offlined they wanted to offline as well. Red Alert wouldn't let them off their selves, so he kept close tabs on them. After a few years they began to talk to us little by little. From there you know the rest of our story." Wheeljack just rubbed the back of his helm uncomfortably.
"I see…hmp can you blame them. Sheesh even I didn't know." First-aid was a bit lost for words.
"After that incident I practically begged Sentinal Prime to let Wheeljack and I take soul care and responsibility for the two of them. As time went on; they opened to us more and more and we saw a new side of them. Especially once they met Bumblebee, it was like we could see the real them. They liven up and stopped being just empty husks… They even deem her as a younger sister." Percy just smile thinking back to all the memories.
"Trust and believe she sees them as older brothers. Whenever they visit she would just shoot up with joy." First-Aid just smiled as her and the two mechs peered over at the young trio. Who were doing nothing more than enjoying each other's company. All that could be heard was the youngster's laughter. Jetstorm had a small tornado underneath her just strong enough to lift her a bit off the ground. Jetfire teleported above her holding her servos as a safety net.
"Look at 'em Percy. Man have they come a long ways."
"Indeed they have"
The older bots just watched as the kids had the time of their life. Unfortunately the sound of fussing could be heard over the young ones fun from out in the corridor.
"BUMBLEBEE!" Everyone optics cut straight to the lab doors, as they swished open with an angry medic standing in the door way.
"What in pits name!?"
Jetstorm quickly ended his small tornado; as jetfire teleported Bumblebee to the grown. The tan twin tucked the young scout behind him. Jetstorm stood by her; his servos on her shoulders.
"Bumblebee! What did I tell you I would do if you left out of medbay or did anything other than rest!" Ratchet was fuming with anger!
Her optics dulled a pale blue. Peeping behind the medic to see Optimus and Elita standing in the hall. whom did not look happy at all.
"Wait Ratchet this isn't her fault-" First-Aid put her servos out on the other medic.
"Why didn't you bring her straight back First-Aid?"
"Ratchet would you just listen!" First-aid started to argue with Ratchet to keep Bumblebee out of trouble. (I could blurt out what really happen right now, and he wouldn't hear a single word I would say! I must do something!)
"Bumblebee come with us. Now." Elitas voice could be heard from the hall as the sound of the couples peds began to echo.
The twins looked at their younger sister holding her in place.
"It's ok…"
"No it's not…" The two gritted their denta at the medic.
"I'll just be away for awhile"
Jetstorm grip tighten on her shoulder. "You're have already been away a while."
"I have to go…" Bee walked off into the hall her dull blue optics not looking at either of the leaders.
"This conversation is over First-Aid!" Ratchet walked off with the three in the hall.
"No, it is not!" She ran after the group all the way back to medbay.
The jet twins stood their pissed off from the pits of unicron and back. Staring at the now closed lab doors completely unmoved.
Wheeljack and Preceptor glanced at each other for a moment before either said a word to them. Perceptor got up from his seat and walked over to the young mechs. "Jetfire? Jetstorm?"
"Why does everyone torture her! She hasn't done anything to any bot!" Jetfire servos were clenched and slightly smoking.
"Brother…"
"Whatever I'm going for a fly, you are coming with brother or what?"
"Yea…"
"Hold on Jetfire what are you talking-" The tan twin teleported away without hesitation. "…about…Jetstorm?" The blue twin just stared at him empty like.
"I'm sorry Perceptor" Jetstorm disappeared with barely a sound.
Perceptor peeked over his shoulder to wheeljack. "I am beginning to think First-aid is on to something majorly problematic."
"Agreed but now isn't the time to try and talk to her."
"Correct. We'll chat another time. For now, I will process the data pads she brought me."
Wheeljack started tinkering with a few things in the lab, while Percy started to go through the data pads. "Hey Perc, don't stress to much they'll come around. Just give them some space for now."
"Yes…" Percy didn't stop what he was doing. Nor did he even look at Wheeljack he simply kept working.
-Medbay-
"On the restricted berth now young femme." Elita stood firm in front of Optimus. Bee just shook her helm no to the older femme. "I wasn't asking you too Bee now up."
First-Aid stood in the door way heavily cycling air through her vents "Wait please it's not her fault."
"Did she not leave on her own accord?" Optimus didn't move from his spot. His posture showing how angry he was.
"No! Not at all Optimus and Elita! I Asked her to come with me to deliver a few Data pads to Perceptor and Wheeljack! I deactivated her wrist band and disconnected he drip bag."
"Why I told you First-Aid that she was on straight berth rest!"
"Its been practically a month since you have had her locked up in here! With no form of exercise! Nothing to keep her occupied! Frag if anything she's been restless! It's practically a medical cell!"
"This isn't your call on when she is to be released! I'm the lead medic, it is my call!"
"She's perfectly fine! There isn't a single thing wrong with her! We've done endless scans, multiple test, we tested everything! She is as healthy as a prisoner can be! An you know that!" First-Aid was in front of Bumblebee trying her best to protect the young silent femme.
Bumblebee whispered to the femme medic. "Mrs. Aid its ok, I'm use to this kind of thing" she looked at her clearly upset about the situation, she was faking being ok.
Elita peered over at Bee who looked emotionless and her optics dull. (She did look as though she was having a blast playing with the jet twins) "Ratchet if what First-Aid said is true I see no true reason to keep her. It has been nearly a month."
"I would have to agree with elita 0n this one if this is the matter at hands. Just have her come back for regular testing once a week and see what comes of it."
Ratchet grumbled for a moment. "Fine. We'll do the test and everything now and you can leave tomorrow. Understood Bumblebee?"
She nodded her helm to Ratchet before hearing Elita clearing her throat. "I- I mean yes sir."
"Now up." She hopped up on the berth hearing the anger in his voice. Painfully inserted the drip back into her wrist. Snapping the security band back on and almost slammed the energon cube on her berth. "I will let you know of any restrictions on her and her scheduled appointments Optimus and Elita.
"Of course; Elita lets continue our rounds."
"We'll be back later on. Behave Bumblebee."
"Yes ma'am" The young femme didn't make optic contact with the leader. Her optics stayed locked on her wrist, watching the bruise get bigger and bigger around the drip. She kept her servo over the steadily growing bruise so that the other could not see.
"First-aid with me." Ratchet glared at the femme medic before heading to the back of the medbay. She was beyond upset with her mate but followed.
"First-aid…"
She looked at the femme and watched as Bee lifted her servo from her wrist. "What the…"
"Please fix it…it hurts and it's making a massive bruise."
"Hold still." She pulled the I.V out and cleaned where it was injected at and patched it up. Then she neatly injected the I.V into her other wrist. "I'm so sorry Bumblebee."
"It's ok."
"No, its not." She looked down the corridor to her and her mates quarters. "We'll talk later sweet spark. Quickly try and get some rest this won't be pretty."
"Alrighty. Night and good luck"
First-Aid rubbed her helm and rushed off to begin her battle.
(Will I really get to go to my own quarters? Primus I hope so…) She laid down rubbing her deeply bruised wrist. Drifting off into recharge quickly like First-Aid said; she could hear the escalating louder argument begin. She rolled over pulling the thermal over her helm and falling into recharge.
-later that day-
Optimus was in his quarters alone waiting for Elita to finish her final round. His processor wondering off to everything that had happen since the Lost Light's returned. (It's been nearly a month and I have yet had a chance to confront Jazz about the Lost Light situation an what she had said. Aside from everything else going on. The Deception have been on a roll of constant raids, mining for dark energon and red energon. Jazz has even taken a few injuries during the last battle and had been in medbay with Bee. Though, only for a day or so before being released.)
"So much has happened in such a short time."
A few of his soldiers had just returned to the base after their last exhibition successfully. He could hear the commotion and excitement from the halls and went to see what was going on. Prime followed the commotion to the rec room. He entered observing everyone disburse into their separate cliques. He paused right before Jazz caught his attention in the back corner with Prowl and Jolt.
"Hey O.P!" Jazz waved at the leader.
"Good evening; how are the 3 of you?"
"Annoyed take your special ops away." Prowl could hear a light laughter come from Jolt.
"Awe come on Prowlers don't be like that." She snickered at her mate. "Regardless, I take it you're here for lil 'ol me?" Jazz just smiled
"Indeed I am, when you're through could you meet Elita and myself in my office."
"Alrighty"
"You can take her now if you wish to Optimus."
"Hey! Don't be like that Prowlers!" she pouted as Jolt busted out laughing at the couple's antics.
Optimus had a slight smile on his faceplate "Only if you are sure Prowl."
"You can keep her if you wish."
"Aw come on Prowl." Her pout turned into a smile.
"Go."
"Fine."
Optimus could do nothing but smile at the two's behavior towards one another. "Very well, follow me"
"Yes sir!" the special ops hopped up and followed Prime all the way into his office. Jazz could see Elita-one already sitting in the far right chair in front of his desk.
Elita was silent with data pad in her servo; however she so deep into her own thoughts that she hadn't heard the two walk in.
(Why am I almost terrified of what Jazz is going to tell us…I don't want to know. Yet at the same time it will help us figure out what's going on with Bumblebee. What about what Ratchet said as well? Even though First-aid confirmed she was in the clear and could be released sometime tomorrow, is it true? I've read through both reports and sure enough it was right there in bold letters. She DID kiss Sideswipe. Why though in that situation!? Why did that even work!?) The sound of the hissing doors startled Elita out of her thoughts.
"So this is where you have been. Please take a seat Jazz; we need to talk." Prime servo gestured to the seat next to Elita.
"Sorry I came to reread a few data pads and became a bit side track. An yes we do Jazz; hopefully you can shed a bit of light on Bumblebees behaviors since the Lost Lights return." Elita's optics were focused on Jazz prepping her self for her reply.
"I figured you two would notice right off the bat. That behavior isn't new…she's been like that since, well …awhile; So to speak."
Prime had propped his self against his office wall by his desk; his arms folded over one another. "There is something you are not telling us Jazz."
"It's really not for me to say Prime. That's something she will have to tell you because, she hasn't even told me anything and she still hasn't. It's more or less what I've experience and saw."
"Jazz you have to tell us something! Please I'm worried about her." Elitas' servo set nervously on Jazz leg.
"I can say this; the moment you do figure it out its gonna cost you either a group of young soldiers…or 2 officers. Honestly, when you try an confront this issue its going to blow up in your faceplate. You're gonna lose control of your crew and you will more than likely still lose a group of younglings. Trust me on that matter, I know."
"Jazz what are you talking about!" The pink femme optics stayed glued to the porshe; confusion and worry creeping on her faceplate.
"Jazz please, clarify" Optimus was keeping his composure while fear creped in the back of his processor as well. (Now I'm more concern then ever!)
"Sir have you ever just watch your crew interactions with one another?"
Optimus just titled his helm to the side in a bit of confusion "Every so often I do yes. Why do you ask me this Jazz?"
"Well if ya ever just watch closely at how the crew interacts with one another, you just might see how the younger bots barely get along with any of the crew. They are never at any of swerves mini celebrations or Blasters parties. Originally, I just thought they weren't invited. However, it turned out they were invited to such events. They would never show up to any of the gatherings. The younger bots tend to stay close together and don't really socialize with the older bots."
Elita peered at Optimus for a moment. "Earlier Optimus; w-when Ratchet called us about Bee and we went looking for her to find her having a blast and a half playing with the jet twins. They were just laughing up a storm. Yet away from Perceptor, Wheeljackand First-Aid."
"I bet they paid you very little attention."
"Well in a sense, the moment Ratchet walked in fussing their optics went straight to us. Did you catch wind of their reaction as well Optimus?"
"I did. They practically shielded her from us."
"Bet they weren't too happy about you taking her back to medbay." Jazz had a slight smug smirk that inched on her faceplate
"Not at all as a matter of fact." Prime took note of his T.I.C reaction. (That fact must be more important than I think it is.)
"Well is that really surprising Optimus. I mean since they joined the elite guard they have been extremely fond of Bumblebee. As has Smokescreen, the four of them have grown close over the years." Elita let out a soft vent. "Still Jazz, what makes you bring that up?"
"A lot of the crew don't like the younger bots; example the Aerialbots absolutely hate the Jet twins. It could have something to do with them having Starscreams coding shoved in them. As far as I am personally aware the younger bots have done nothing at all to the older more experienced ones."
"Basically, they all have their specific enemies and a team that follows behind." Elita just sort of frowned
"Sure; we can go with that."
"Reguardless; how does this correlate with what happened on the Lost Light Jazz? How did these chains of events occur?" You could hear the light hint of irritation from prime dealing with all of this?
Jazz just kept her sad smirk and moved Elita's servo from the top of her own lap. "Everything Optimus! you secluded one of them, stuck her a ship for 2 earth years with no escape from her enemy. You put her in direct line of fire with no form of help." Jazz took a quick intake before continuing on
"I have my suspicions and facts, however if Bee finds out I told you anything she'll clam up. That's why I'm doing it like this. You must hear it from her herself. I 'll do a report for you, however this report has to stay between you and Prime. You'll see why later."
"Jazz, enough of this talking in circles!" Optimus stared straight at Jazz his vocals boomed a few octaves deeper than normal.
"Very well you want it straight out? Why don't you have a little talk with Barricade. That bot knows a lot more about the younger ones then you think." Jazz kept her composure just as she was trained to do. She knew that Optimus and Elita viewed the young scout as a daughter.
"Optimus! Jazz! That's enough!" The room fell silent. "Jazz this is-"
"extra? I know, but you want the whole story cut and dry? From the actual beginning? Then that's the route you will take. That's if you plan to actually put fourth any action for what's to come."
"What do you mean from the actual beginning jazz?" Optimus expression didn't break. He stayed firm.
"It goes back further then 2 years. You're gonna get beyond mad when you hear it what that young mech has to say. That mechs seen more then some of the older mechs here have seen. Yet, bots wonder we're that attitude of his comes from. Barricade will step in, step up and speak his mind. Doesn't matter where he is but he'll always show up when she needs him."
Elita looked at her mate for a moment confused and worried.
"Jazz are you implying Bumblebee and Barricade have a something going on?
"yea, I mean they always have. They've been had a thing as far; as far as relationship wise, I doubt it but as for sure a brother sister kinda deal. Bumblebee has helped Cade out when he was at his lowest. Now he's doing the same for her. Just talk to Cade like you have some sense. He'll 6 times out of 10 will cooperate.
"Jazz I'm still-" Optimus was cut off by Elita
"Your dismissed Jazz. We'll chit chat later one on one cool?" Elita gave a wink to Porsche.
"I'll send ya the report asap."
"Thank you, Jazz. we'll talk for sure once we get it." Elita gave Jazz a smile and watched as the femme left.
"Elita?"
"Jazz isn't the type to hold back information unless it was something we need to hear for ourselves or she doesn't have a direct answer. You and I both know that . Does that mean my worries have gone away, no matter of fact I could break down right now from simply my own concerns for Bumblebee."
Prime walked over an gave her a quick kiss on her lips and forehelm. "You are correct…all the more why I am concern for what has happen in the 2 years."
"Lets give Bee a day or 2 before saying anything. For now, lets just go have a little chit chat with Barricade shall we?"
"Agree, our best bet would be to bring him back to my office. This situation does not need to be getting out. Especially not now."
Elita nodded her helm at Prime and left out towards the holding cells; watching as the normal everyday chaos of the base unfolded before them.
Upon entering Barricade's cell; they could see him laying down with one leg hung over his knee joint. His servos folded behind his helm. Soon his purple optics cut over to the two leaders with little concern to no concern.
"What?" his deep and raspy voiced echoing through the room
"We just want to talk to you about something." Elita servo rested on her pink hip plate.
"Fine, what?" Barricade didn't budge at all while talking to the two. Didn't even look their way.
"We need to talk to you about somethings regarding Bumblebee." Prime stood stern next to Elita
"About?"
"It'll be best to continue this conversation in my office in privacy."
Barricade remained quiet for a while not giving the two a response.
"Please Barricade were just worried about her. This isn't the Bumblebee we know." Elite rubbed her faceplate tiredly before returning to her relaxed stance.
Barricade just stared at the two before giving a maniacal smile at the couple. "It's not hard to suck it up and plaster a smile."
"What?" Optimus had a serious yet confused expression on his face plate. Looking straight at the decepticon cop. The cops bright denta were nothing but fangs, his expression was so dark as his helm barely turned to them. Yet, his unsettling purple optics was enough to convince any mech they were about to be horrifically killed.
Elita stood still for a moment. Disturbed by the sudden change in Barricades demeanor. However, she tried her best to shake it off. "N-no one can do that forever Barricade…" Elita let the words trail out just loud enough for him to hear.
The young mech just stayed silent the smile still lingered on his faceplate.
"Please Barricade…" Elita servos rested over her spark worryingly.
He stared at them for a bit longer before turning over, his back facing the two leaders. A yarn escaped his mouth as his claws barely covering his mouth. "Sorry but I don't trust…"
"How about we make a deal Barricade? I let you out of the cell but, in exchange you must tell us everything." Prime kept his composure fairly well.
"Hmmm how about instead you let me and knockout out; as well as having her work in medbay."
"…you'll both be supervised by Sideswipe and Sunstreaker."
"Fine, but no training or anything that has to involve being around your weapons specialist and his crazy mate."
Optimus hesitated for a moment before replying to him. "Very well, however you will be trained by both of the Lamborghini twins to take their spot."
"Aw, whatever happen to Bumblebee being my babysitter. Who else will keep me entertained?"
"She still will be to an extent. However, the twins will be your primary 'babysitters' per say." Elita walked a bit closer to the cell door. "So, what do you say? Have we reached a compromise Barricade?"
He paused for a moment looking back and fourth between the two.
"Fine"
Barricade stood up the stasis cuffs rattling with every move he made. Elita waited a moment before opening his cell doors; releasing him.
"I'll take them off once we get to Optimus office; alright?" Elita gave the rogue cop a soft smile.
"Just to not raise any suspension or rumors from the crew. Especially from anyone who walks past."
Barricade scoffed at the pink femme. "Fine; whatever."
Elita led the way with Barricade behind her and Optimus behind him. Making their way back to his office they passed a few bots, but they kept going about their business ignoring the deception. They reached the office with no problems an as Elita promised she took off Barricades stasis cuffs. While Optimus locked his office door. Barricades optics stayed locked on Prime as the commander propped up against his desk.
Elita sat on top of his desk beside him; All the while Barricade stood front and center. "I guess I can be a mech of my word sense you actually held up your end. What do you want to know?"
"Someone told us you could tell us the reason behind Bumblebee's isolated behavior. She used to be so carefree and happy." Elita kept her optics on him waiting for a response.
"…If I tell you; you better fragging do something about the fragging problem and not a thing to her." The two were takin back by his sudden aggressive response
"Cuase if the same thing that happen on the lost light happens again; I'll slaughter the problem myself. Last time I couldn't do anything but stand on the sidelines. This time I'm here…" Barricade just glared at them. His claws scratching the paint on the sides of his arm causing some energon to spill from the wound.
"I can not do anything at all Barricade if you don't tell me anything. I'm at a dead end and Jazz sent me to you for answers. I thought that she would just sleep off this mood due to how chaotic everything was when she had returned from her assignment with everyone." Optimus glanced away from the young cop for a moment. Though still feeling Barricades gaze burning into him.
"But it hasn't gone away, matter of fact since things have settled down, she has become so isolated an quiet its almost disturbing. Its like she has this dark shield around her. She's not the same sweet Bumblebee she use to be." Elita just frowned at the young mech. "She's changed and not for the best."
"Hmp. Wow you two really are blind idiots! HA! They are doing a good job keeping her hushed up and things under wrap and keeps. Though I can't say I blame her for the silence; I mean how would you react if a crew member has been excruciatingly beating on you for 10 years and threatening bots you cared for? "
"What!?" The two had this harden shocked expression on their face plate.
"This scrap with Bee is deeper then you think Optimus Prime and Elita- One."
"Explain from the beginning, please…" Elita servo clenched tightly at the edge of the desk. She wasn't ready for what barricade had just told her.
"You might want to call Jazz back then if you want the whole story."
Prime activated a private comm to Jazz .
/"Jazz"/
/"I'm on my way back already sir. With the report already finished in detailed. Matter of fact; can ya open up?"/
Prime stride over to let the third in command in. Looking at the femme a bit agitated while returning to his desk. Jazz sat in the same chair as before; though Barriacde had yet to sit he stood with little to no expressions. "here's the report ya wanted." She handed it to Elita who put it immediately down.
"Just tell us from the beginning of what's going on! Please!" Elita was getting worked up a bit by the information being laid in front of her.
"Who's beginning? Bumblebee or her sires, Shadowzone?" Barricade stood firm trying his best to hold back his anger at the two.
"Bumblebees..." Prime answered putting together the pieces of what jazz had said earlier together.
Barricade vented heavily. "Well lets' state the basics of what you two already know. Shadowzone brought us here after Bee emerged. Some time passed Knockout and I got taken right back to the Decepticons during a raid. You all didn't give a slag so we stayed an became Decepticons than walla! Whelp what you don't know is that we found our way back to your base to play an keep an optic on her over the years; that's how we became close."
The couple glared at young cop angrily.
"So her 'drives' were to go an see you two!?" Elita went from fear to anger in a split moment. Getting riled up the more she thought about her precious daughter sneaking out to hang out with a Deception. Even having the nerves to befriend a few!
"Not necessarily, they were to get herself away from everyone most of the time; you know solitude. Like how I'm able to read her like a book at this point. Then when I do catch her by herself its easy to tell rather she wants to be bothered or not, or rather she's ready to have a total melt down. Maybe she'll scream at you to leave her be. So you just sit there and wait for the tears to cease."
"Wait, what that doesn't make sense why would she go to you when she has all of us here. There is something you not telling us. Just spit it out already!" Elita jumped off the desk gripping Optimus servo tightly to hold her back from getting into Barricades face.
Cade paused for a moment irritated and mad at Elitas actions and simply smiled and laughed. His disturbing killer like smile stretched on his faceplate; stretching to nearly his optics. All the while his optics were nothing but purple slits with a light red ring in the center. The cops expression caused Elita to back up a bit from him.
"Barricade…" Jazz voice just trailed off hinting at the cop to ease into it.
He paused for a moment never breaking optic contact with the couple. Deciding on rather to take jazz hint or not. (If I'm blunt about this then there's a high chance everything will spiral out of control putting Bee and Jazz on the frontlines of all the chaos. On the other servo, I can get the scrap done and over with an possibly get something ACTUALLY done….) Barricade finally sat in the seat behind him his elbow joints on each knee joint. His claws lightly scratching against one another. He just took a deep intake and vented out. "The only friends Bumblebee has; are myself, Knockout, Smokescreen, The Jet Twins and her dinobot Strafe. I'm sure she is close to the Lambos as well I just don't know the status of that friendship. However, there are times where we aren't around to protect her. Those two years especially."
"You still aren't making any sense Barricade." Optimus voiced echoed throughout the office with a bit of bass following heavily behind it.
"You have gone through the medical records that were recorded on the Lost Light haven't you Optimus?" Barricade gave an annoyed look at Prime.
"Of course, why do you ask me this?" Prime stayed focused on the cop stature.
"Where in any of those files was Bumblebee name mentioned even once? Bit odd that in two year she didn't have to go to the medbay at all? No injuries during combat? No check-ups? Nothing…Hmm almost as though she doesn't want something on her body being seen. Maybe a repetitive bruise that isn't easy to cover? Cause I don't think there is a such thing as daily body paint that comes off the protoform."
"So, I'm expected to listen to a Decepticon who's telling me what's wrong with our Bumblebee? Who not only betrayed his own leader, but is also telling me that someone amongst my crew is beating on my youngest bot. The same bot that I foresee as my own daughter…" Elita face plate had nothing but anger written all over it. Her gaze peering up at the cop who expression didn't even budge.
"I follow only one bots orders and only one bot knows who that is." Cade gave a quick glance at the T.I.C before returning his attention to the couple.
Optimus simply stood silent an angry next to Elita. Remembering how abusive Shadowzone and Ironhide 'brotherly' relationship was. (Surely he hasn't carried on that tendacy with his youngling, has he?...I'll have to go back and speak with Ratchet about this later.)
Jazz took note of Optimus fortitude of silence. "What are ya gonna do about him now Optimus? Looks likes things haven't changed at all; and past events don't make this any better."
"Optimus? Plan to let me in?" Elita just glanced at her mate angry; her optics piercing through Optimus.
"No use of hiding it at this point. You're weapons specialist duo are vengeful and abusive power couple. They have been for years." Barricade kept his composure preparing for the worse reaction from the pink femme.
"Barricade how dare you-"
"He is right Elita…I thought after the loss of their own sparkling they would be past this. I thought he was pass this!" Prime pinched the bridge of his optics. Emotions swirling to a mess.
Elita went from being angry to flat out emotionless. "No…Optimus this has to be a misunderstanding. They would never harm anyone! Especially with how close Bee and Mercury were!"
"Whatever! The day she offlined was the day this all started! She was able to run and hide when she was little! But you know sparkling grow up and the option is thrown right out the window! You know it! SO IF YOU CANT HIDE YOU-"
"Barricade! Cool it!" Jazz hit the side of his arm.
"Frag no! All those times she had to lie to Ratchet saying she fell playing was bull scrap! But everyone believed it because she played rough like a mech…after a while that excuse went out the window. That's when she started using paint to cover it up marks… years went by and no one notice except for the jet twins, smokescreen, and even the lambos knew something was wrong. When they saw what was happening first servo they stepped up and defended her the fragging best they could! Even through a fake aft smile and cherry attitude. So Elita…THAT is why she would go on those long drives…oh yea, and that other thing of bots being here for her? Ha! Utter scrap! Over half the bots here hate her and the reason they hate her is cuase of Chromia and Ironhide. Oh, lets just add verbal abuse to that physical abuse; Hmmm lets see a good 10 years of that might have a mental toll on a bot. Don't you fragging think!?"
Barricade snarled at the pink femme. His fangs baring hard at the couple, mainly Elita-one
Jazz was silent for a moment before adding on. "I've been doing the best I could to help her through it over the years; Especially during those 2 years away. She's even tried to off her self a few times while we were gone. Before ya ask no; it's not in the report or any medical data. She refused to go to the clinic at all while she was there. She never came out of her quarters. She didn't smile she didn't even smirk. Bee just became an empty shell after a while. After I caught Ironhide in the act I took her off training permanently. Neither he nor Chromia will ever train her!"
Elita was silent for a moment trying to process everything and calm down. "So be it Jazz, but I want to know something."
Jazz tilted her helm a bit listening to her commander.
"How is it that you know more about what goes on in our base then we do? An why are you so comfortable around Barricade?"
Jazz hesitated for a moment but answered her. " It's my job to gather information as third in command and as for Cade well-"
Cade cut her off quickly.
"If you remember knockout and myself were both autoboots for a while. Jazz use to watch all of use remember. Ive kept minor contact with Jazz. How do you think you got the jump on that old mech from time to time. Besides my priority wanders about in your ranks. Only reason I kept track of Jazz; nothing more nothing less.
"Jazz…"Elita looked at jazz. "We'll speak later in private."
"Of course."
"Anyway Knockout an I have been coming into your base since we were younglings. If you are wondering why Bumblebee or any of the other younger bots amongst your crew have not said anything to you about us over the years. Then let me ask this; why should they?"
"Because they are Autobot! There priority should at least be of everyone's safety!"
"Should be, but why even try to protect those who don't even care for your own wellbeing? Especially after telling you what I know? What do you expect? Bumblebee tried to confide in her teammates and the only help they gave her was a cold shoulder. She quickly became uncomfortable around the others. So why care for their well being when they dog, beat and treat her like scrap? The twins even tried to help her, but because your weapon specialist is an aft hole he tore them away from her any chance he got. He trained the scrap out of them. Pros an cons am I right?" Barricade gave a menacing smirk to Elita who just stood silently fuming.
Optimus took a seat in his desk chair rubbing his forhelm with the palm of his servos. "I have some questions for you jazz…"
(whelp this isn't gonna end well.) "Yes sir?" jazz posture became a bit more formal.
"How long have you known about this situation?" Optimus digit where criss crossed together right under his optics. Hiding any signs of emotions from the rest of his face.
"A few years, sir."
"Why didn't you come to me then Jazz?"
"it's the same reason I didn't come to you now. Instead I sent you to Barricade for answers."
"What exactly is that reason for you to not handle this situation an inform me before it went on as long as it has."
The special ops paused an gave a quick upsetting smirk. "Optimus your right-hand man Ironhide has trick a manipulated the crew to down size an hate your young scout and a few others. He and his mate have beaten on her for a while. Has almost killed her during training as has Chromia. What evidence do I have to back up all this? Nothing. My word against theirs. Not much you can do with little to no proof of what I said right? My other reason? She is protecting someone else. If you watch closely to the younger crew members you might figure it out; Because even I don't know. With all that said Optimus what would you have done if I had said something then? Truefully I think things would have simply gotten worse. I think that something will happen an you will loose a scout and a life at this rate."
Optimus was furious; his silence spoke volumes. (I hate to admit but she is right…still! Why so long; this has been happening for years!)
"A face…"
"Hmm?"
Barricade stretched a bit before continuing. "A face, a mask, and façade; what's the difference between the 3?
Everyone went silent; even Jazz was confused by the question.
A face is a fake front to hide the emotional strain on a person. That in its self requires a lot of focus to keep hidden. A façade is a front thats used to hide a person disturbing feature; basically a talked up lie with fake action to go with said lie. A mask; a complete cover up of a persons personality that no one can see the damage or instability of a personas state. So which one does Bumblebee have?"
"Alright? Based off everything that's been said its obvious she is wearing a mask. Wait, why does that little fun fact even matter. We know everything as of-" Barricade cut her off again; infuriating Elita-One
"You still don't know scrap! Look, I have told you as much as I could. Why don't you go give Bee a little spark to spark?" Barricade glared angrily at Elita. "You can send me back to my cell or whatever I'm done talking."
Everyone was silent for a moment. Optimus rose from his desk catching everyone attention. (Ill ask him some other things later; one on one.)
"He's kept beyond his part of the deal Elita." (Now who can I room him with?)
*Heavy knocking on Optimus door.* Optimus quickly went to unlock his office door to see Smokescreen standing there all worked up.
"Prime sir you need to come to the communication room asap!" The young elite peered into the office for just a moment before continuing his statement. "It would probably be best to not bring Barricade. Megatron is furious enough as it is already…"
"Go ahead Optimus I'll stay with Jazz and Cade."
He nodded his helm and left out with Smokescreen. Leaving the 3 alone in silence.
Barricade stayed stationed, the visible sign of being beyond angry radiating off his faceplate. His optics landing daggers straight at Elita one. "Don't you EVER call me that…"
Elita stood there shocked and taking back by how upset he had gotten about calling him Cade. "Very well…Jazz keep a watch on Barricade for me. I'm going to go check out what's going on."
"Of course he'll be with me in my quarters till I here back from ya or Prime."
"Very well; Thank you." Elita left to the communications room.
"Ya weren't too nice were ya?"
"…" Cade just stared at Jazz.
"Ya can't do everything ya self-Cade. Even if ya have good intent; and ya wanna help her out."
"Ironhide and Chromia are traitors and you know this…you saw it, you saw what they did to her caretakers. Even Megatron was pissed about the scrap that went down on her emergence day. Those two are top on his kill list above Optimus hisself! That's saying more than enough! But hey what do I know I'm just an adopted experiment."
"Stop it Cade, your sire cared for you and protected you for as long as he could. He was Shadowzone guardian, best friend and brother. Shadowzone was all the family he had on Cybertron."
"He's irrelevant to me I never met the mech so I could care less about him."
Jazz just gave a soft smile. "Yet your exactly like him. Not only that but you have taken his role as well. Your sire was a guardian and so are you; except your protégée is Bumblebee. I don't care what you say you two have always been like brother and sister. There were a few occasions where I swear it was more then that though...?"
Barricade simply stared at Jazz for a moment. Flashes from the first night she bumped into him flashed through his processor. Only imagining their kiss, her framed pressed against his. The image of looking down at her shocked flustered face. All hitting his processor at once. Followed by every event that took place that night between the two of em; the frustration; the stupid mistakes…the anger.
"hmp don't be ridiculous, you and I both know who her mates are. Besides she like that annoying little sister ya can't get rid of."
"It's okay to like her more than a sister Barriacade after all she is your opposite. You could always try and win her over ya know?"
"…"
"regardless! I knew ya cared for her! An ya love her antics don't lie."
"Shut up you!"
Jazz just smiled at him. "Alright lets go! I'm just gonna throw ya in my room for the time being an kinda lock ya in dare."
"oh yay a fancier cell…"
The two rose from their seats an made their way to the exit. "Ha ha ha sorry Cade; but look at the bright side! Ya welcome to almost whatever ya want. Just for warning Prowl is my mate an we do share quarters soooooo."
"Just kill me please." Barricade frown his right optic twitching from the unwanted info.
Jazz bursted out laughing at the young cop.
"Just be a good young mech once we leave out of these doors."
Jazz swung her arms over Barricade shoulder an leaned in close to his audio.
"Remember Protector, play the role so ya can protect your prodigy. For her future throne awaits?"
Barricade didn't move; his optics stared at Jazzs' green lit vizors hard. "how did…"
"I knew since YOU were sparked. We'll chit chat later." The door swished open; Megatrons voice could be heard from the communication room. Jazz caught Barricade hesitation from her peripheral vison. She knew he was listening to the War Lords fussing and cussing about Optimus taking his solider and medic. "Hesitation will get ya killed…" Barricades shoulder fin twitched so quickly it almost appeared as though it didn't even move. "Cade…"
"…I'm moving…" Cade followed behind Jazz closely. (Can't say I didn't see this coming…) Barricade stayed close to Jazz. His optics steering clear of everyone gaze. His thoughts trailed off to the first call he made to Bee on the Lost Light 2 earth years ago.
(I shouldn't of waited So late to call her, But scrap this is the only free time I got. then I'm turning in after this.) Barricade walked into his quarters; locking the doors behind him. He hopped in the shower real quick to cool off and wash off the grime from his mission earlier. Afterwards he sat on his berth bare frame; water driping with water. A nano towel hung around his lower body. Quickly drying and applying another set of armor. Once fully geared he activated his communicator and called the young scout.
"Hello?"
"Haven't heard from you in a while; you alright?" (Her camera isn't on…its always on)
"Sorry I have been busy with training and what not…"
"Hmm, is that so? So busy you forgot to turn on your cam Bee?"
"…"
"if I didn't known any better I would say you were hiding something."
"N-no I'm just wrapping some of my wounds I got from practice earlier. That all…"
"Hmm; who's your trainer?" Bee didn't say anything in response "Bumblebee, answer me."
"I-I… Ironhide …and Chromia…"
Barricade went silent for just a moment before erupting with anger.
"YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!"
"No…"
"Turn it on, now!"
"But-"
"NOW!" Barricade sat there with his legs crossed Indian style waiting for her cam to cut on; once it was activated he saw all the wounds that covered her arms and the sides of her torso.
"Turn around..." She slowly showed her back to him and he simply stared at the deep lacerations that covered her entire back. The wounds overlapped one another so wide and harshly that they couldn't heal properly.
"Why didn't you call me!? No why haven't you gone to the medic!?"
"Because Ambulon, turned me away since I had all my limbs; And the nurse said that she would talk to HotRod. Who has never liked me since I can remember. Barricade when I said I only have 5 bots I can trust I was not a lieing. You, Jetfire, Jetstorm Smokescreen, and Knockout. I trust Jazz, just not enough to let her know. What if she goes and tell somebot. I-I can't-" Bumblebee curled in into her self. Her knee went to her face as she slowly began to rock back and fourth. While her servos covered her faceplate and coolant began to pour down her face. " I can't Cade…I-I don't want…i-I just want it to stop…"
Cade paused for a moment and took a deep intake.
"Relax alright? Knockout and I will come to you shortly."
"Wait, what!? I'm light years way! You can't poof to me! What if somebot see's you or…no one-"
"Hey! Have I ever had a problem finding you before?" She kept her form as she slowly shook her helm. "I'll be damn if I let you offline on me, you sparkling."
He Quickly snapped on the bigger pieces of his armor and left straight to Medbay. Waltzing right in without a word; grabbing Knockout and tossing her over his shoulder.
"Hey Cade! What gives! Put me down!" Knockout kept slapping his back plate in some attempt to put her down. Barricade said nothing as he quickly went to his quarters and threw her on his berth. "WHAT THE FRAG?!" He covered her mouth and turned her helm towards the communicator. "Bumblebee, sweet spark what happened?"
"She was sent off on a 2 year assignment; but, Ironhide and Chromia are her trainers.
"How long has she been gone!?" Knockout could do nothing more than stare at the crying young femme. She just sat curled up rocking herself back and forth.
"Can you patch her up?"
"Of course, I take it you still have that teleporter we found on our last mission." He just nodded his helm at her. "Alrighty then, lets go ."
Barricade activated the device an put in Bee' exact location. In a flash they both ended up in her dark room. Barricade went straight to her door an made sure both locks were activated an working. While Knockout uncurled her.
"Hey, look at me little Bee." The medic watched as her muffled hicks slowed down and her continuous streams of coolant poured down her faceplate. Wiping away the endless streams.
"can I evaluate u lovely?" she just gave a slow nod while trying to stop the tears; failing to do so.
"Cade guard her door."
"What do you think I'm doing."
"Torso armor off Bee." She silently did as told. "Lay chest down love." Knockout turned on her surgical light. "What in primus name…."
"I know it's bad, what's the scale of it?"
"Stitches, welding, and cream nothing more nothing less." Bee had her faceplate buried in her body pillow. Her coolant soaking into it like a sponge. "I'm about to start. What I'm going to do Bee is cut 4 straight lines right down your back; while remove the scabs that have covered your back already. That way it will heal inwards in one general direction. They're going to leave a light scar, but barely noticeable."
Bee nodded her helm. All the while feeling every touch that knockout applied to her body, yet the cooling sensation from the mesh cream eased some of the pain a bit. Yet she kept her head down.
"There, all done the mesh should have your back all back to normal in a few days and the stitches will dissolve on their own. So, for now try and take it easy." Knockout help Bee sit up an held her in arm.
*Footsteps approaching*
"Quiet, somebots coming!" Barricade grabbed Knockout and hid in Bee's closet. Leaving a crack just barely noticeable to the optic. His claws covering Knockout mouth; while the other held her tightly against his frame.
*knock knock*
Bee took a good look around to make sure they were invisible. Her servos gently rested on the door. "Who is it?"
"It's me Swerve! Kups here too!"
"I told you kid I'm not going!"
"Aw Kup! Your too sweet!" *cling* "Ow!"
"kids these days I swear to Primus."
Swerve burst out in laughter. "Anyway Bee! There's a party down in the rec room. There's gonna be drinks! Games! Drinks! Dancing and music!...oh and drinks!. Wait I think I've said that already? Come on! It'll be fun! What do you say!"
Bee just peered over to her closet for a moment before walking to her quarter doors. Her servos softly sliding up the closed door. Not even budging. "No…maybe some other time swerve; but thank you."
"You told me that the last 8 times! Not taking no this time! So, get all fancy and polished up an ill grab ya in an hour! Let's go Kup!...kup? Hey he left me!" She could hear Swerve running off down the hall after the elder mech.
The stowaways creeped out the closet and watched as her shoulder slid down the door.
"We need to head back before someone realize where gone Cade." He just nodded his helm at her.
The officer crouched down and shooed Knockout away. His vocal lowered to a whisper as his claws thumped Bee neck cables.
"Ow?" her optics not wanting to look at Barricade.
"Look at me…" She kept her helm down. "Look at me Bumblebee…" she turned her helm away from him. His clawed digit gently caught her chin an turn her to him.
"Cade…"
"I've said it once and I'll say a million more times. I'll follow any order you give me. I'll break whoever hurt you. I'll guard you even when you get pissy and push me away. I gave you and your caretakers my word that I would be your protector, so that is what I shall be."
"…No…no you're not; because…because your family."
"Samething different title." Bee was silent with him for a moment. Averting her optics away from him. "You could still come back with us. Wouldn't have to worry about any fragging Autobots hurting you. You could stay by our side; and no one will ever hurt you…I can an will make sure of that! Do you understand?"
She simply nodded her helm to him understanding before looking up at his piercing purple optics. "I don't think that will settle well with old Megs…"
"You'll be surprised…"
She gave a half attempt smile. "I'll pass Cade."
He just stared at her as he let out a heavy vent. Her optics darting away from his gaze. "call us before you recharge tonight."
"…ok."
"Lets' go Knockout" He lifted Bee and placed her on her berth before walking to Knockout whom was activating the teleported.
"Love you, I'll be waiting for you to call love bug." Knockout gave a quick kiss on her forehelm and just like that they were gone.
Back at the base.
"You know she's probably not gonna…"
Barricade just sat on his berth his face in the palm of his servos. "I know…" (If only I could tell her everything. Right now she's to emotionally unstable for me to tell her anything. But if I wait to long she might never know. Especially if we're looking down the path she's going down…)
"Cade..?"
"rrrRAAAAAH!" the cop bellowed out an fell backward on his berth. A low growl still echoed from the corner of his fangs. "I don't understand what Ironhide and Chromia gain from beating on her all the time! How has no medic notice yet! I know they have regular checkups and scrap!" his servo left his face an fell onto the berth.
"Both of them have way more favor or well seniority; they use that against her to sway the crew. They gossip with bots, put a few bad words in about her, and then the gossip train continues. Rather the rumors are true or not. It accumulates and gets worse as time goes on and well there you have it. Far as medics, she has to agree to be seen no one not even Ratchet can examine her if she refuses."
Knock out sat next to him.
"Uuuugh"
"Believe me, she trusts you Barricade; that's not the problem. She is trying to prove something to her self. Proving that even if she can't fully defend herself; she can protect her morals. That's the one thing she can protect and hold on to. That's the one thing no one can rip away from her."
Barricade just listen to the medic for a moment. (Yea, but for how long can she fends against herself?) "how is it that you know all this."
"femme to femme pep talks" Knockout smiled at the cop with no reaction from him in return. "Cade, I know your worried, but you can't force her or pressure her. All it's going do is stress her out more than ever."
"I'm more worried about the end results more than anything. If she doesn't get some form of release or escape she is going to end her self. She's only been on that ship for a few weeks to a month or so. I don't know. At lease when she was back on this planet she could drive away an at least recoup. That's not an option dare."
"Just keep close tabs on her for now. Trust when I say that a simple little call will put a smile on her face. I'm going to head back to medbay. Keep a watch on her Cade and no stressing! Understood! If she is in over her helm she'll reach out to you. She has before…Protector."
Barricade peeked through his claws at the last word. His purple optics starring straight at her. "Shut up…"
She gave a soft chuckle and let him be. "See ya tomorrow."
"Yea yea…" he remained still on his berth for a moment before jumping all the way on. His legs propped up. Drifting off in his thoughts. (You better not offline on me you stupid sparkling…)
"Barricade? Hello earth to Barricade?" Jazz was waving her servo in front of the mech.
"hu? What?" Barricade crossed his bulked arms over his chassis calmly.
"Ya mentally checked out in me for a moment there."
"yea, got side tracked for a minute. What is it?"
"…Anyway! this is my, well our quarters." Jazz punched in the code to her and Prowls quarters and let Barricade walk in first.
"That's right you're with Mr. boring as scrap. I will never understand how."
Jazz just laughed. "One day ya will. You're still a kid ya self. However, I'm gonna lock ya in here an head out to Prime and the others.
"Oh whoopie…"
Jazz burst out laughing. "Look at it like this, is basically a fancier, better furnished cell! Where you know only I know the Code." Jazz smiled at the him mischievously.
Barricade just rolled his optics at the third in command. "What of Prowl? I'm sure he wouldn't approve of another cop in your quarters; especially not me"
"He'll be fine, tell him I threw ya in here."
"Uuuuuuuh you did!"
"See! Covers both our afts. Seriously though, don't worry bout it. I'll handle everything after that."
"Fine."
"I'm off Cades I'll check on ya later!" She gave a quick wave and left.
Barricade stood at the door for a moment before going to sit in one of the chairs on the side of the room. He waited a while before he began snooping around a bit. He notice something peeking from a holopic.
(Hmm? What's this?) He pulled the hidden image out and stood there in shock. (She still has this…) He smiled at the image seeing his family from forever ago on it. (Bumblebee was still a sparkling.)
In the holopic Shadowzone was in Elita's quarters standing with sparkling Bumblebee in his arms. Sunstreaker and Sideswipe standing on each side of the jet. Both staring up at the mech smiling while each twin rested a servo on either Knockout or Barricade shoulder. Sunstreaker servo rested on top of Knockout helm. Barricade stood more front and center as Sideswipe servo rested on Cade shoulder. You can see Knockout holding a toy smiling happily at Barricade. Barricade was holding onto Sideswipe servo as he was sticking his glossa out at Knockout.
Cade took a seat in one of the hopefully not fragged in chairs; staring at the pic more detailed.
(I miss these days almost everybot looks the same…) His optics locked on to the black jet smile. Cade smile quickly faded away.
(I'm sorry I couldn't get to you fast enough to warn you about Ironhide that day Shadowzone. But I PROMISE Bumblebee will live to enjoy her life. You assigned me to be her Protector before she was even born. The marking on my back is proof of this. Yet …I still have so many questions.)
"Hmp guess I did follow in my sire footsteps…"
Barricade let out a long heavy sigh while adjusting his self comfortably in the chair. Staring deeply at the photo a bit longer before nodding off into recharge.
I am so sorry this story has been on pause for so long!
1st: it took me 8ever to figure out how to twist this story in the direction i wanted. Especially with it being such a long chapter.
2nd: its 12am my time when i finish proof reading this an im half sleep so i'm so sorry lol but i beleive its still pretty good
3rd: The next chapter WILL NOT BE NEARLY A YEAR B4 UPDATED PROMISE!
please message with any questions or anythings you have or comments an what not. I made this chapter super long to make up for this bullshit hiatus. Please keep in mind though i do work and will soon be working to jobs with a side gig. So please be patient. I will be trying a new approach to the next chapter and thats physically writing vs typing it all in one sitting. It tends to take a toll on me doing it this way. So i'm try a new approach :D enjoy!
i'm going to bed i have work in a few hours ;D