Chapter 14 - Move out Part 1
Nights like these, Daisy dreaded the most. Her sleep rhythm is now in shambles. It was always bad but never this bad coming to the point where she might as well develop insomnia. Daisy woke up from her sleeping bag to a bloody nose. The warmth of it dripped down her face while she shivered from the chilly air.
That's right, how could she forget? Perhaps yesterday's rescue made her exhausted. Eliza also woke from her slumber, tired in the eyes but made sure her friend was okay. The temperature was low, usually, the Autumn season had its perks and cons. It also was the reason for a nosebleed.
Daisy gets out of her sleeping bag and folds it into her backpack. When she finished she looked over the edge of the desk she was on—she really despised why the medic placed her this high, not being able to get down.
Daisy released her Galarian Rapidash. The unique horn Pokemon horn ignited, levitating her trainer and fellow team member to the floor before being recalled back into her Pokeball. The trainer exited the medic's chamber and into the hallways. By the coolness of the air, Daisy wonders how the townsfolk are dealing with it. Are there any fire Pokemon to warm them up, are there even build fires to begin with? Wouldn't that cause carbon monoxide?
She was tired, Daisy wouldn't wake up for another three hours yet here she was. What was she doing? She had nowhere to go, some of the town folks must also be asleep…what about Jon? I wonder if he's doing alright…I'm such a fool for letting him go on his own. I wish we never parted ways.
Loud metallic footsteps shook the floor—it must have been one of the bots—it was Optimus. Shoot! Not now, Prime was one of the few Autobots she didn't want to stay around for too long. Having nowhere to hide she stands there quietly, waiting for him to spot her.
"Daisy? What are you doing at an hour like this?" Prime asked as he spotted the blooded tissue she tried to hide quickly.
"Optimus, sir! I- ugh- I couldn't sleep… It's too cold."
Prime got closer and kneeled on one knee, "I am sorry. The Ark doesn't have working heating systems."
"Don't worry yourself, you're already doing what you can…and I'm sorry. I understand if you don't trust me after what happened last night but Champion Hilbert and Nate are experienced trainers. They help stop an evil organisation from world domination!"
"I have become aware of this 'Team Plasma' and the trials those two trainers faced. I am sure you had good intentions to tell them as they are willing to help us and I applaud you for that."
"But what if it didn't go as planned?"
"Then you wouldn't have any reason to?"
She drew her attention to her Pokemon before looking back at the Autobot leader.
"Why do you trust me? You have no reason to trust a human so easily, they can be sly."
"Same way you trust us; you gave us a reason too. I know of human behaviour and have experienced many betrayals by them but I also experienced great compassion, those who are willing to help — you and Jon being one of them."
Daisy relaxed her muscles as the nausea began to wash over her; Optimus continued speaking.
"Another reason that I promoted trust in you and Jon is that I sense there is more to you than meets the eye."
Optimus now realised the human was in a daze, holding her stomach as though she was about to throw up. He reached out to her with his finger and gently rubbed the side of her head. Her temperature was normal. Using his free hand, he picks up the two organics.
Daisy wanted to protest but every time she moved she felt she might lose her stomach. Optimus moved them closer to his chest because she was hearing things.
"A heartbeat?" she hazily said.
"My spark, similar to what you humans called a heart but more. A soul."
Optimus shifted his arm when the human wanted to get closer. He understands the spark of a Cybertronian can calm a human or his species' younglings. It's been aeons since the loss of his younger generation due to Megatron's mass genocide. Prime looks at his companions warmly, like a father wishing goodnight to his kids. He will have to wake them up soon but for now, they rest.
By this time, everyone was almost awake, almost. Most were hungry at best and were trying to see if anyone brought spare food.
Hilbert, Nate, and Clay rush to the entrance of the Ark where they await the Autobots. Prowl came outside, wanting to check on the humans and Pokemon. He looks down, spotting the three humans.
"Prowl, right?" Hilbert asked.
"That's correct."
"Is there any way we are able to get food? The people and Pokemon are starving, no one has eaten anything since yesterday evening."
"I'm sorry Champion Hilbert but no one has authorization to leave the cave until we find a way to evacuate you to a nearby city."
"I understand that but we'll starve to death if we don't eat anything soon!"
This put Prowl in a thought process. The humans and Pokemon need something to fuel them but it's a risk to let them out. The closest town is Mistralton City and it's an hours drive from here. They could have Jon and Bumblebee send help but it would risk the rest of the planet knowing about them.
Would it matter in the end when these people already know them? Plus these two trainer histories… "Very well, go inside. I'll meet up with you once I finish checking on the townsfolk."
"Thank you."
The three humans made their way inside the Ark, finally getting to awe at it compared to last night. The Autobots told them they may rest inside but they declined, wanting to stay with the townsfolk.
They come to the control room where most of the Autobots were at, discussing their next course of action.
"Champion Hilbert, Nate, Gym Leader Clay. Prowl has informed me about your predicament. My men and I are discussing ways to help out." The leader of the Autobots said.
"Have you thought of anything?" Nate quarried.
"We have," Ratchet said.
Optimus continued, "I am dividing two teams. One will retrieve fuel for the town folks while the others will find a way to evacuate. I have already assigned who will be in charge of these operations."
Daisy revealed herself from her guardian's side, "Nate, you'll be coming with us!"
"Huh?"
Hound grins, "That's right."
"Hilbert, you'll be going with Arcee, the twins, and Windblade," The Autobot leader announced.
"Optimus, what will you be doing?"
"Staying here and making sure everything goes as planned. We'll be back up if anything goes south. Is everyone ready?"
"Yes, sir!"
The two humans and three Cybertronians venture outside the tunnel. The humans brought an extra pair of bags just in case while Hound and Jazz took care of heavy needs; Mirage will stay on the lookout.
The group made it to the city entrance, carefully staying clear of any Decepticons. Nate frowned, a once bustling town was now in ruins. The sky was still cloudy from yesterday, no doubt it might rain again.
"We're here," Mirage announced, "Hurry and get what you need."
The trainers wasted no time and entered the store. Canned fruits, vegetables, soups and some even meats. They took some berries and pokefood. While exploring through the store, Nate began to question Daisy.
"Have the Autobots ever told you what their home was like?" he whispered.
"Only snip bits here and there. I didn't want to ask much because it felt insensitive."
Nate grabs another can, "Then what makes you stay with them? You know, they could easily manipulate you into thinking they are trustworthy. I saw it happen to a friend."
Daisy walked around the aisle and closer to Nate, standing a few inches below him. "Because–"
"Because?"
"Rio trusts them."
"Don't use him as an excuse. There's something more…isn't there?"
"... … Their– their aura."
Nate stared at her dead in the eyes, "Do they…?"
"No, no they don't, at least I hope not. Not yet."
"Are you?"
"No, I'm only a user."
"They'll find out eventually."
"Optimus and the others are already on to me. They notice I don't stay around them too long and Ratchet is getting suspicious of my nausea."
A flash came before a thunderous sound shot in the sky; Daisy broke away from the man and went to a different aisled. Nate watches her leave before continuing to collect goods.
Eliza sniffed around the store, searching for liquids. Going to the back of the store she found an aisle of water bottles—the bubble jet Pokemon yip, signalling the two humans in her direction.
"Good job, Eliza," Daisy said before heading out the store calling for Hound and Jazz.
Getting everything they needed, they packed the two Autobots' trunks full. Everything the townsfolk need; unfortunately, this supply will only last them three days at most.
"That's everything," Nate said while closing Hound's trunk
Another flash of lightning came. "We should get going, it looks like a thunderstorm is drawing in," Mirage said.
"Aguh." Daisy fell on her knees, an intense sensation surrounding her very being. Eliza barked, worried for her friend, catching the attention of the others.
Jazz kneeled on one knee, carefully using his hand to support his charge back up. "Dais', is everythin' alright? Yer not sick are ya?""
Nate just looked down at her knowing precisely the reason and if that's the case, something or someone was nearby. Another set of lighting soars in the clouds, this time, is that of something else. The ones he was seeing were a mix of purple and standard blue, this one was neon.
Just then, the group overheard seekers heading in their direction. When they were ready to be attacked the seekers flew over them, headed to where new lightning strikes were taking place.
"There…" Daisy pointed in the way the seekers headed to.
"No, we need to get back–" Jazz was cut off when the girl started sprinting.
She ran and ran, the others calling her name but for her, all she felt like something was drawing her in. Having enough, Eliza jumped in front of her, breaking Daisy out of her trance state as she began to wonder where they were. The others caught up to her.
"Daisy, what's gotten into ya! You know runnin' off on yer own is a death sentence!"
The girl didn't bother looking at her guardian. Nate puts a hand on her that makes her jump, he knows what's up.
Right now they were way too close to where the Seekers flew.
"We need to get back, now!" Hound hissed.
When another lightning went off, they witnessed the unexpected, "Ratchet?!" and right next to him: a boy.
Skywarp patrolled the skies for the past fourteen hours, searching for any living beings. "Kill off any survivors," Megatron says. Even if there were any survivors, Skywarp doubted they'd be alive for long.
Amidst the rubbles, the 'con spotted a familiar-looking bot, with him a boy. He circled the air hawking at them trying to see if it was one of the Autobots and their human pet. Deciding he was done observing, Skywarp flew to the pair—a surprised yelp came from them.
"What do we have here?" Skywarp said, a malicious grin crossing his face. Still in his alt mode, the Decepticon shot plasma fire at the two.
The Autobot yelled out the human's name, taking on the shot themselves. Their shoulder plate had an ugly wound on it as it leaked energon. The boy wanted to run up to them but drones came in as backup.
Skywarp transforms and lands on the ground, eyeing the duo. He was taken aback by having a closer view, "You look…familiar…" It couldn't be, could it? Skywarp shook the thought out of his processor. It didn't matter if it was another version of him, he needed to die either way.
The Autobot stood up holding his shoulder, "Do I… know you?"
"That doesn't matter, Autobot!" Skywarp brought out his weapon and began firing.
"Spark!" as the boy released electricity out of his hands forcing Skywarp to bounce back.
Now the fun begins.
The drones surrounded the duo, mostly the human. He launches another attack on the drones frying them to their core. On the other hand, Skywarp dealt with the Autobot, teleporting around them and confusing them.
Although stunned for a moment when the Autobot started launching electricity, Skywarp continued his banter.
Their lightning shot off into the sky as more drones came in, however, they weren't expecting guests.
"Ratchet?!"
The battle stopped when another group of Autobots and humans showed up. 'Ratchet' looked in their direction, baffled as to how they knew him. His companion did the same except he was more focused on someone else.
Daisy and the teen had a staring contest with one another; It was like time had stopped. Before they knew it, they broke from each other's gaze when one of the bots yelled.
"Get 'em out of there, now!" Jazz command.
The three Autobots wasted no time to help the other 'Ratchet' leaving their humans behind. Nate and Daisy took this time to help the teen. There were ten drones in total and more seem to be on its way.
"Brave, come out! Use Air Slash!"
"Eliza, use Chilling Water!"
The Pokemon obliged, sending out sharp winds and icy water knocking out four drones.
They ran up to the teen.
"Are you okay?!" Daisy asked.
"I'm– Who are you? What are those!?" pointing at the Pokemon
"I'm Daisy and this is my partner Eliza."
"Nate. This is my partner Brave."
"Connor"
"Explanation can wait later, right now we need to get you out of here," Nate stated.
"That would be nice… if more of them weren't coming in!" Connor hissed.
On the other side of the battlefield, Mirage, Jazz, and Hound fired at the seeker. Hound got a hold of the newcomer while Jazz and Mirage kept Skywarp at bay. Skywarp began to get peeved not having a clear shot of the Autobots, so his next course of action was to aim for the humans and Pokemon.
"It looks like your pets need some help!" pointing his blaster at them.
'Ratchet' used some of his strength to yell for the boy's name, "Connor!"
It caught the humans and Pokemon's attention. Connor quickly launched a bolt that caused a reaction and exploded midair.
Skywarp snarls, "Why you little–"
"Spark!" 'Ratchet' said as lightning escaped his hands before losing consciousness. The lightning clips the seeker's wing—disabling him to fly.
More drones started flowing in, overwhelming the three Autobots, humans, and Pokemon. Mirage and Jazz began having trouble holding off the new drones forcing everyone to back into a corner. The only thing that kept them from running off were the damaged houses behind them.
Connor began having trouble himself when showed heavy breathing, exhausted from the fight; Eliza and Brave showed the same fatigue. They have to come up with something fast.
An idea came to Nate, "Daisy, do you have any Pokemon that knows Leafage or something similar?"
"I do"
"Connor, you still with us?"
The teen already had sweat seeping out of his clothes, barely in focus, "Yeah, why?"
Nate looked around for an opening.
There were a dozen or so more Decepticons now, Skywarp in the middle of them. "It was fun while it lasted but this is where things end."
The Autobots stood protectively in front of their human and Pokemon companions. Just when things seemed at a loss and everything looked slow, the humans yelled.
"Aaron, use Pollen Puff as big as you can!" Daisy yelled as she called out her Butterfree.
"Brave, Hurricane!"
A great gust of wind enhances the Pollen Puff to reach most of the Decepticons.
"Connor, now!" Nate shouted.
Using every fibre of his being, Connor unleashes a flash of thunderous lightning, igniting the Pollen Puff into a cloud of smoke. Soon Connor blacks out only to be caught by Daisy.
Jazz grins before turning behind him, talking to the others before helping Hound with 'Ratchet'. "Quick thinking you three, now let's hurry!"
Daisy helps Nate to carry Connor firefighter-style before the group runs to a safer area.
Entering Clay's Tunnel, tired from their outing but still needing to feed the people and help these two newcomers. Once they made it to the Ark, Ratchet was already coming in their direction. Before coming to the cave, Mirage informed the CMO that a Cybertronian needed medical attendance.
The medic was bewildered to see another version of himself. Taking action quickly, he warps the other Ratchet's arm around him; with the help of Mirage, off into the Ark.
"Think he'll be okay?" Daisy worried.
"He should be. The wound didn't look too bad as long as there weren't any sparks." Jazz said.
"Sparks?"
"It means a 'bot is hurt on a more serious level." Jazz looked down at his charge, seeing her in a sad mood. He took a step back looking around the cave watching Nate take the boy to the infirmary section.
"C'mon, Dais. Let's get these people and Pokemon their meal."
Walking over to the far end with Jazz and Hound, they settle down by transforming into their alt mode. Daisy yelled into the crowd if they could help her out—people who knew how to cook. A table was set out, pots and plates, those who were family would share a meal, and those who were by themselves would share with a Pokemon.
Most were satisfied for now until they got hungry again — they'd have to wait the next day to eat.
Daisy got herself and two others a bowl of soup. Rio helped out by carrying a different bowl and headed towards Nate and Connor by the infirmary.
When she got there she handed a bowl to Nate while Rio placed the other down for Connor for when he wakes up. All of a sudden Connor's body began to shake, heavy breathing followed suit.
"Is he alright?" Nate asked the nurse.
She got over to him, "Yes, he looks like he's having a sort of nightmare. Just let him sleep through it."
The two trainers watch Conner toss and turn in his sleep before waking up quickly gasping for air. Connor turns around as though looking for someone.
"Where is she?"
"Who?" Daisy asked.
"Lizzy!"
She only looks more confused.
"Elizabeth! Where's Elizabeth?!"
Nate spoke up, "Relax, Connor, she's fine." Showing off a doll that sat next to him.
The doll hops from the man and into Connor's arms. Doing so gave the teen relief until he began panicking again. Knowing immediately, Daisy reassured him that his guardian is in good hands and that he is seeking help.
He gave another sigh of relief.
However, Daisy couldn't help the feelings she felt earlier today. That boy—something is wrong with him and it's making her sick to her stomach.
"You're staring."
Daisy jumped, "Wait really? I'm sorry… It's just…"
"You can feel it too?"
The girl's eyes widened while Nate spoke in return, "Are you a guardian too?
Daisy repeatedly looked between Nate and Connor as she was shocked at what the man just said.
"No… I'm a… Do you believe in magic?"
"No." They both said.
Connor rubbed the back of his neck, "How should I explain this?"
Connor opened his mouth about his world; things about paranormal entities, ghosts and monsters you have under your bed. He brushes off the first sentence to show off his ability. Snapping his fingers a soft blue glow surrounds it, drawing a ring in mid-air to create a small light orb.
"Wow."
It seemed as though it was the tip of the iceberg, Connor explains not all humans have this but only families who have a connection with magic itself. The magic — elements, are similar in a way to Pokemon typings.
The two trainers watched as Connor brought the orb into his palms and crushed it into sparkles. Although humans having abilities like that were more farfetched. It now made sense to Nate that the doll was somehow 'alive' and not just a ghost-type Pokemon — it was a literal ghost.
"Are there any questions you want to ask?" Connor said.
"Were you born with magic or was it just given to you?" Daisy jumped at the questioning.
"Well, I guess you could say I was born with it. My family bloodline had a connection with magic from the start and all the descendants had it. Like my dad, even though he had no powers he's able to see things that normal people can't."
Connor continues about his connection to the magic and his family in a tone that he wishes he hadn't in the first place.
"So you hate your powers?"
"Of course! First I have to deal with magic, then aliens, then witches, and now angels. All because of what? My stupid past life and the fact I look like my ancestor who cursed all the other descendants?!"
Nate and Daisy leaned back into their seats, equally looking into each other. Looks like they're not the only ones having a rough time, but what about that Cybertronian that came with him?
Connor mumbled to himself before looking at the duo, "Sorry about that, it gets frustrating dealing with the whole situation."
What caught the teen's attention was there were other Cybertronians in this cave. Most, if not everyone looked so calm about it but something was indeed wrong with their predicament. Nate snaps Connor to his view when he speaks, his voice getting serious like he was being interrogated.
"You looked calm seeing the 'bots, knowing that you had one following you by your side. My guess is that there are more you've encountered?"
"Yeah, Ratchet is… my guardian. We got caught up in a situation and ended up here… Why asked?"
"Have your Autobots told you about their past?"
Nate watched the boy drift off into thought, saddened by his reaction Nate flicked his fingers to get him back on track. "I take that as a no?"
Connor sighed, "I far as I know the 'bots had a war back on their planet. Team Prime ended up on Earth a few years back I believe and Agent Fowler found them and gave them shelter…er hiding place. I don't know what happened between the time when they came from Cybertron to Earth, I only discovered them because of a friend, well…friends. And it's a bit of a long story which the two of you don't have time to spare."
He was right on that part, storytelling at a time like this would be a no-go. Many things were at large and needed to be careful. One thing for certain is that the Autobots don't talk much about their past.
"I'm curious though, what happened here and how did you meet your Autobots?"
It was Daisy's turn to explain.
"I'm sorry that happened to you. I really can't, I mean I can see the Decepticons doing such a thing but they haven't done it yet."
"Then your world must be lucky for now." Nate sighs, "I'm heading out." Picking up his backpack and soup leaving the teenagers alone.
"I should be going too, just finish your soup and rest. I'll call you later when the 'bots need you." Daisy said.
"You're leaving too?" Connor quivered, not wanting to be alone in foreign territory.
"Sorry, I wanna check up with Jazz and see what's going on with my little brother. Don't worry too much, okay?"
Eliza stood up and followed her trainer towards the Ark.
The buzzing of monitors echoes throughout the Medbay. Ratchet checks over the scans, carefully monitoring the newcomer's pulse. The ugly wound that he had on his shoulder has been patched up and any extra damage he had already healed.
"Everything is stable, he'll live."
"Thank you, old friend." The Prime said.
Ratchet moved away from the berth letting the other Ratchet rest.
"Did the others say how they got here?"
"Not yet, Jazz and Hound are busy helping the humans while Nate and Daisy are tending the boy."
"Ah, him. I have yet to hear about his recovery. Perhaps I should visit him later this evening, hopefully, he should be awake by then."
"Hopefully will also be getting some answers soon."
The medic watched Optimus as he slowly made his way towards the door, "Something's bothering you, isn't it?"
This stops Optimus in his tracks, he turns around to face his friend. "I have been wondering about our human companions."
"Which one? I'm sure Spike is doing fine, he has Ultra Magus with him and if anything, they would be trying to find a way to bring us home."
"I understand that much, Spike is a brave soul but it's not him I'm worried about."
Both officers didn't speak, only the beeping from the monitors filled the silence.
"It's Jon and Daisy, isn't it?"
The Prime nods. Ever since he met them, they have shown how emotionally unstable they can be under heavy situations, no matter how much they try to hide it. They were just kids after all. Their reactions were different when he met Spike and his father.
"I don't want them to be a part of this."
"You know they are going to protest about it, they always do."
That was the problem.
"How long would the other Ratchet wake up?" Prime asked changing the subject.
"At least by tomorrow, not exactly sure what time."
"Then I'll leave you to it." Was his final statement before leaving the Medbay.
Optimus walked through the halls of the Ark, there had yet to be a report from the other team. It plagues his mind how will they be able to save these people, making sure no one dies on this evacuation.
Another thing that crossed his mind was one of his human companions. Although she and her brother are similar, something about her felt different. She would never stay around him (Windblade or Grimlock) too long. This shouldn't bother him, but it did. She always showed signs of fatigue when she stayed longer than ten minutes with him, even had Ratchet check her if she was sick — she wasn't.
And this feeling whenever they were around her.
Optimus shook the thought out of him, when he walked around a corner, he spotted the young trainer by herself on her phone. Her expression gloomed as the call went into voice mail.
There was that feeling again.
Prime didn't expect her to be back so soon, though he wondered where her companion went off to. Maybe she could provide some intel on their newcomers. He stepped out of his 'hiding' spot to make his presence known.
"Is everything alright?"
Daisy flinched when she heard his voice, "Optimus– sir!"
"Please, there's no need for formalities."
"Sorry…"
Prime got closer to her, "You look stressed. Have today's events put you under pressure?"
She didn't bother facing him, "No, it's not that… I just feel nauseated."
Prime tilted his head, she was like this this morning. "You're not feeling sick?"
"Would you like to go on a walk with me?"
"A walk would be nice."
They continue to walk the halls in heavy silence. There were many times when he wanted to ask her questions but wasn't sure of her well-being.
"You are curious about Connor," said Daisy breaking the silence.
"I am."
The older teen explained the situation to the Autobot Leader. What happened during their recon and how they encountered the newcomers. She also told about Connors's events before they got here — something about him having magic didn't seemed so far off.
Optimus stayed quiet listening to Daisy, carefully steading his pace so as to not get ahead of her. He took every mental note of what she said, using it for later when he meets the boy in person. When the trainer finished speaking they were once in silence again.
"Where's Eliza?
"She's with Jazz." Not bothering to look at the Autobot Leader.
Prime stops in his tracks forcing the human to also stop. When he got a good look at her expression, she looked as though she was in pain. She was breathing heavily but quietly as though she didn't want anyone to know about her situation.
That feeling showed up again, however, stranger this time.
"Daisy," he said her name firmly. "Something is wrong, I can feel it coming from you. I understand you don't wish to share your personal struggles but I would like to know what is causing you so much pain."
The trainer eyed Optimus, contemplating whether she should tell him or not.
"I'm sorry… It's not your fault. I– … can you really feel it?"
He thought about it for a moment; what was he feeling right now? Whatever it was he's spark resonated with it.
"I can feel something. At first, it was faint but the longer I spent my time around you the stronger it became."
Daisy weakly puts her hand on her chin, "I see. It wasn't like that before, Rio acknowledges that you started to sense us and that made me a bit worried."
"What do you mean by 'sense us'?"
"Optimus," Daisy hesitated for a moment, "What your feeling is my—"
Soon after, a familiar sound echoes through the halls. Magneton cried out to the two persons in front of them.
"Compass, what's wrong?"
Red Alert commed the Autobot leader about a situation at the campsite. The Magnet Pokemon sway back and forth trying to get the human and Cybertronian to follow.
"I believe we are needed elsewhere. Let us continue this conversation another time," said Prime.
Daisy nodded and the two Followed behind Compass to the entrance of the Ark.
2 hours earlier.
After finishing what the medic needed to do, Ratchet took a final glance at his counterpart before leaving the Medbay. From what he learned from Prime, Connor should be at the infirmary campsite.
Ratchet made his way out the entrance of the Ark and viewed over the townsfolk. His spark sank seeing another innocent species get caught up in their war. How many more lives will suffer because of them?
People and Pokemon talked among themselves and eyed the medic as he passed by. Before he could take another step, a little child with their Lillipup ran in front of him.
"You're the robot who helped us! What's your name?"
A smile crossed its way on the medic's face, children were always his weakness. "My name is Ratchet, youngling. What is your name?"
"Parker, and this is Buddy!" The Lillipup yelp.
"Where are your family?"
The boy frowns, "I don't know. We were running, Daddy was carrying us until his leg got hurt by some rock. He told us to keep running — now I can't find him."
Ratchet's hand turns into a fist, 'That child lost his parent during the evacuation.'
He calms down before opening his mouth, "Is there anyone else to watch over you? I'm sure there's a temporary nursing area for lost sparklings like you."
The little boy tilts his head not really understanding. "You mean that Green hair lady? She's watching over us."
Out of the corner of Ratchet's optic, the green-haired lady ran over. She apologises to him before taking the child with her. Of course, she'll be wary of him, most of them were anyway.
Standing back up, he left the area and headed towards the infirmary. Once there, he transformed into his alt mode and brought out his avatar, hoping this way he wouldn't scare the boy too badly.
When he got closer to the tent he heard small mumblings "... I need help…"
Taking his cue, he opens the tent's curtain, "Do you require any assistance?"
The boy screamed when he heard Ratchet's voice, standing up in front of the bed with eyes widened.
"Ratchet?" said Connor, having uncertainty in tone. His overall demeanour states that he knows him but not exactly. The Medic nods his head in response.
"W-wait, you're Ratchet?!"
"I am, but not the one you are familiar with."
Those words made Connor slump down knowing that he was not the one the boy was looking for.
"Are you alright? You look tense."
Connor chuckles nervously as he straightens up his body whilst a doll makes short eye contact with Ratchet before the medic looks back at the boy.
"I'm– I'm fine. It's nothing bad, really. Just having some… thoughts."
"Are you sure? Because it doesn't sound convincing," said Ratchet as he walked further into the tent.
"I'm 100 percent sure!" — Connor takes in the moment to change the subject — "Why're you here anyway?"
"I thought I come by here to check up on you and I was hoping you could answer some of my questions if you don't mind."
"S-sure, why not? I can't sleep anyway." Connor sat himself down on the bed, still keeping a close eye on Ratchet.
From one of the nearby stools in the tent, Ratchet grabbed it and sat right next to the boy's bed.
"Wait!"
The CMO gave the boy his full attention.
"Is Ratchet alright, like my Ratchet who came with me… my friend."
"Everything's all patched up and has been stabilised, he's fine." The medic senses the boy's heart rate goes down when his muscles relax.
Connor crunched over himself in a view that looked like he was hiding his left hand. "That's good"
"He must be that important to you; As for speaking for myself, I wouldn't have a child under my wing. My line of work isn't suitable for such being."
Connor's voice stood up defensively, "I'm not a child!"
"An adolescent, but not unless you are 18 or older, you'll be considered a youngling to me."
The boy didn't bother fighting back, compared to a Cybertronian he might as while be a newborn. Anyhow, to know that his guardian is safe puts weight off his shoulders but even still, he felt that he could've done better for him
"Do not blame yourself."
"Huh?"
"I can see that you're blaming yourself for your friend's injuries but I can assure you that's not the case here."
"You don't have to say that just to make me feel better– " he said with disbelief hidden in his tone.
"But it's the truth" — interrupting the human's speech — "and you know it."
Ratchet gave Connor a gentle smile, something to ease the boy's nerves. Connors smiles back half bake before dropping that happy expression. His eyes widen in fear as though he saw a bloody murder.
"Connor, are you alright?" Ratchet asked rhetorically, both hands on his lap as he observed his next action.
The boy snaps back to reality, looking over at the medic, nervously smiling. "Y- yeah, it was nothing…"
Lie, something was indeed tormenting him or else he wouldn't be acting that way. Ratchet's eyes gazed over him, trying to find anything significant wrong. At first glance, he didn't have anything physical wrong with him but taking a closer look, his left arm showed some trembling.
"Today's events must have put you under a lot of pressure."
"Sorry?"
"You're from a different world, correct?"
"Yes."
"I'm guessing you know about the war between Autobots and Decepticons."
"I do, what does that have to do with anything?"
"Connor, our war can put a lot of trauma on a species' mind and body. Those who try to help end up getting hurt or killed. I will ask my question, are you injured?"
He only stared in horror as though he was caught stealing cookies from the cookie jar. He stuck his legs closer to his chest like he was trying to hide something. Ratchet know this body language all too well for his own sake. Those who tried to hide their injury would do such a thing. The medic sighed, of course, something was wrong with him.
"shut up."
"I beg your pardon?"
"Leave me alone…"
Something was definitely wrong. Connor kept mumbling to himself, telling himself to go away.
"Connor!" Ratchet yelled his name. The plead of concern edge his tone.
Connor looked at Ratchet as he now stands closer to his bed. Ratchet's hand rubs the boy's back in circles.
"Please, make it stop. I don't want to hear them any more!"
Without realizing it, Connor's left arm became exposed when he used both his hands to hold his head. There was black covering it all the way to his elbow, looking like it had been poisoned by Energon.
Ratchet couldn't believe what he was seeing, "Connor, what is–"
The teen jumped out of bed to avoid the medic, "Get away from me! Just shut up!"
A burst of energy broke down the tent they were in. The CMO's holoform disappeared and was now in his robot mode.
On the other side of the refugee camp, Nate looked towards the area where a bunch of commotion was at, right before a shockwave swam throughout the campsite. Many murmurs and whispers echo the people and Pokemon wondering what just happened. Soon, some screams were coming from the infirmary.
Nate rushed through the crowd only to catch sight of a now-transformed Ratchet and a young teen with black-clawed arms. When the man tried to get a closer look the medic stopped him.
"Stay back!"
Nate obeyed, staying behind Ratchet and keeping an eye on Connor. The boy cried out in pain as he swayed his head from side to side with his claws holding his head. Ratchet tried reaching out to Connor to no avail.
Every time the medic tries to get one step closer, Connor will take one step back. It didn't help that townfolk could now see the shape he was in. Not giving up, Ratchet tried to calm Connor down, making his posture knowing that he would not harm the boy.
Sick and tired of the Cybertronian not listening to him, Connor shot fire from his palms in order to scare them off. However, Nate reacted to this by calling out his Pokemon. Braviary spawns out of his Pokeball and into the air above the man-made fire. The expert trainer commands his friend to use Air Slash on the dirt so that in large amounts can wipe out the fire.
When Connor tried to use fire again to keep both parties separated, Braviary used his flying move to break the fire and tip over the teen. He couldn't stay, he needed to leave, he needed fresh air. Next, Connor shot icicles at the Valient Pokemon who luckily dodged it but in return slashed sharp edges of wind in his direction.
"Nate stop, you're scaring him!" Ratchet warned.
"He's gonna hurt someone if we don't get him under control!"
Neither of them understands the torment Connor was going through, the voice in his head stabs him with each word it says as though it was true. Trying to force his body to move, he caught a glance of three more bots and two humans with Ratchet and Nate. Mostly his attention to one person in particular.
"What's the situation?" The Prime asked.
"It's Connor, something is wrong with him," Ratched explained.
The cave air suffocated the young lad, and so he ran. Running as fast as his legs could carry him.
The three humans who witnessed him flee wanted to chase after him but Prime wouldn't allow it. Ordering them to stay put until further notice. Optimus left Hound and Prowl to watch over the humans while he and Ratchet went after Connor.
"If he makes it out t'ere that kid is gonna expose our location," Clay complained.
"That's if he makes it out," Prowl commented, before drawing back his attention to the townfolks and having some of the Autobots help get things back in order, leaving the group.
"I hope he'll be alright, maybe this new environment is causing a lot of stress?" Hound worried.
While the Adults wondered what would happen next, Daisy fell to the ground, her body numb. Everyone turned towards her asking about her well-being but she protested. She forcefully got herself up and tried heading in the direction Optimus and the others went to.
Clay grabbed her arm, "Kid, Prime told us to not go."
"Connor needs our help…"
Nate came to Daisy's aid by forcing Clay to let go; however, Hound was confused by that statement.
"What do you mean by that?"
"Nate, please. His mind–"
"I'll take you to him."
Just before Nate could help move, Hound stepped in, "No one is going anywhere. Daisy, what do you mean?"
The two humans looked at one another and Daisy gave in, "Hound, I'm an Aura user and Connor needs me and Rio to help him!"
Connor huffed as he was being chased by two Cybertronians. He uses his wind magic to go faster than a normal human can run. The voice came back at him again, making it difficult to properly control. The Autobots behind him kept pushing forward not losing their speed. Connor wished they could go away, why were they so eager to help him, shouldn't they be more worried about his guardian? He's Cybertronian!
To buy himself some time he throws out an ice attack, covering the tunnel behind him like a wall. Too bad it wasn't enough to slow down the Prime as he barreled right through it. This made the teen panic causing him to up his pacing.
After a while, all three beings made it outside. The damp atmosphere filled Connor's lungs with a hint of winter night. Turning behind him, Optimus and Ratchet transformed into their robot mode. Connor took his step back, wanting nothing to do with them — he wanted to be alone.
Prime and Ratchet pity the human. It reminds them of the time Spike was in distress after being stuck in another body, causing harm to himself and others.
"Stay back! Don't come any closer. You'll get hurt if you do!"
Both Cybertronians spark shattered. Sure, they have witnessed many youths of any race react like this but it always wounds them to see an innocent soul in agony.
Optimus got closer to him making Connor flinch before releasing lighting to shoo him away. Things got heated up, if the 'Cons didn't know any better, Connor would have revealed where they were hiding. Optimus paused for a moment — it was a similar feeling he had with Daisy.
"Connor, breathed!" Ratchet suggested but it only fell on deaf ears.
Soon both Officers panicked when he saw the blackness from his hands slowly going up to his shoulders.
"Optimus, If we can't stop whatever is happening to him, I fear his life would be in danger."
The Autobot leader looks back at the teen, watching his body moving in a submissive way as though someone was controlling him — forcing him. What happened next caught the Cybertronians off guard. An ice attack was thrown at them, thankfully Optimus got his energon axe out in time to smash it from reaching them.
They looked back at the human, eyes white as snow and tears falling. One way or another, Optimus was able to feel the raw emotion emitting from his body. Somehow there was a connection but this was his first time meeting this human.
It didn't matter how much they called out to Connor, he wouldn't respond to his name, and the closer they got the more attacks they threw at them. Slowly losing control of himself.
"Optimus!"
The Officers looked behind them. Hound drove to them with Nate and Daisy in his cabin. The humans and Pokemon got out of him when he got closer to Optimus and Ratchet.
"I have told you to stay in the cave. Hound, you have made an unwise decision of bringing the humans and Pokemon here."
.
"Wait!" — Daisy spoke up, having trouble standing up on her own — "Rio and I can help, his aura is messed up!"
Optimus and Ratchet wanted to protest but knowing their options were dry, they gave it a go.
"Nate, help me out here."
"Got it."
"Optimus, I'll give you the signal so you can get closer to Connor!"
The Autobot leader nodded.
Nate ready his Pokeball, throwing it up into the air. A flash came out and an equestrian-like being exited out the ball — with bright red main and dark blue streaks. Daisy, on the other hand, already had Lucario out. Both trainers prepare.
Attack after attack flew across from one another, each side keeping their stand and high ground. The Autobots were in awe at their companions' capabilities while checking the sky for any Seekers. Each time Lucario got closer, Connor shot another ice attack. Using Aura Sphere to help break through the ice and Aqua Jet (from Nate's Pokemon) to stumble Connor to the ground.
Desperate, Connor's attack got wilder, no longer able to concentrate on who was who and where was where. It became harder to keep him still making the Autobots worried. Nate took this opportunely, holding Daisy close to him to prevent her from losing foot. And to use his secret move.
"Keldeo, use Sword Dance then Scared Sword!"
Light glimmered around the Colt Pokemon, changing its form as its horn grew larger. They charge towards Connor, slicing him but not enough to kill him.
"Optimus, now!" They both yelled.
The Autobot leader ran up to Connor and pinned his frame to the ground, allowing the Prime to have a better view. The amount of empathy going through Optimus for Connor was staggering. Even with white eyes, the Prime can see the teen's pain.
Without warning, Daisy lets free from Nate's hold and runs with Lucario up to Optimus. They tag onto his metal leg, using their abilities to get into Connor's mind.
The Prime opens his optics, only viewing the darkness that surrounds him and his companions. To his surprise, he was of human height. The Prime grabs Daisy and Rio helping them to stand up.
"Where are we?" He wondered.
"In Connor's mind. You must hurry, Rio and I can't hold on for too long. Follow the link that connects your Spark and it will lead to Connor — hurry!"
Nodding, Optimus left the two and disappeared into the void.
The further into the mind, the louder the voices got. The poor boy was fighting with his inner demons, yearning for someone to save him but only to push them away if they got too close. Memories pop up, some of whom look foreign yet familiar. It was an alternate version of his team — five of whom were present. The more he saw the more he understood.
When Optimus finally got to the centre, he saw Connor on his knees staring at the ground but then a shadowy figure appeared in front of him. Its figure showed no physical form, only swirls of black foams.
"Get out!" It snarls.
"What have you done to him?" Prime demanded, trying to get close to Connor. The voice wouldn't let him get any further.
"That is none of your concern. This child has nothing to do with you, so why bother helping him? You don't know him."
"Even if I don't know him he has every right to be free from his suffering."
"He deserves it, Prime! That boy is doomed to repeat the same mistake as his ancestor, how would a stranger like you think otherwise?
Optimus shook his head, "One's past does not define their future, but it helps to shape it. If the past isn't learned then it's doomed to repeat; Connor can choose to change his future."
The voice contemplated not being to do any physical harm, "Go ahead, talk to him. He is at his breaking point anyway but I'd love to see what sort of miracle you can provide."
Optimus steps forward, closing the distance between him and the human. He kneeled, drawing his hands close to Connor's face and angling it to look up at him. Connor's emerald eyes bore no shine in them, only lifelessness. Closing the gap, Optimus wrapped his arms around his body.
The light that was no longer there returned. Old memories he has in his timeline came into play. When Connor realised who he was hugging he fully embraced the warmth he craved. He sobbed into Prime's arms repeating " I'm sorry" and "I wish I was a better person".
Optimus rubs Connor's back in gentle circles, "What has been done has come to past; however, do not let the actions of someone else's past affect your future."
Connor slowly quiets his sobs before giving the Autobot leader a "Yes, sir".
The environment around them changed form to a now golden wheatfield having the duo stand in it. Prime could feel the presence of his companions losing their connection to stay in Connor's mind signalling that he wouldn't be here for long. When he looked around to figure out where the entity went, it was nowhere to be in sight. Soon after, the surroundings change again and everything turns white.
The sounds of beeping monitors echo in the Autobot leader's audio receptors. Voices danced around him, it was hard to tell what they were saying but knew who belonged to. Feeling the sensation in his body, Prime decided he had enough lying around and used his strength to wake up. His vision blurred as he readjusted his optics, scanning the room he was in.
"Oh thank Primus, how are you feeling?" asked Ratchet.
Optimus glances around the medbay searching for the humans and Lucario. Over by the counter, he spotted them looking worse for wear. They were monitored by his right hand-man watching the humans sleep soundly. The Prime had a twinkle in his eye before trying to up his sitting position.
"Careful." The CMO said, helping Prime adjust himself.
"I am doing alright, old friend."
Optimus felt mentally exhausted. Never before had he been in someone's mind seeing all their memories at once. Optimus stole a glance at Connor by the counter who had a doll sitting on top of him.
"Optimus."
The Autobot leader spun his attention to his medic.
"What happened? When Daisy and Rio touch you, you all started glowing."
"Could you elaborate?" Optimus query.
"That's the problem; I'm not too sure myself. The 'glowing' started from Rio then passed down to Daisy before engulfing you and Connor."
Jazz listened in on the officer's conversation. Something the way Ratchet describes it sounds awfully familiar…
"Yo Ratch. Ya said this glowin' thin' started from Rio, right?"
"That's what I said."
"Jazz, do you know something that we do not?" Optimus asked.
The saboteur placed his servo on his chin, "It's a hypothesis. I remember my girl tellin' me and Prowler about Rio's abilities. Something about sensing a person's aura. My guess: the little guy can do more than just sense a person's aura."
Ratchet wanted to dismiss Jazz's claim; however, there could be a possibility… "Rotom."
The plasma Pokemon from Daisy's backpack flew over to the CMO. He then spoke to it to open the Pokedex.
"Lucario: the aura Pokemon. A Steel/ Fighting type.
"Lucario reads its opponent's feelings with its aura waves. It finds out things it would rather not know, so it gets stressed out easily."
"That's not all," Jazz pointed out, "you're using the Alolan dex. If you look at the Sinnoh dex, it tells you something more.
"By catching the aura emanating from others, it can read their thoughts and movements."
Ratchet raised an optical ridge, "You're saying that Rio single-handedly got Prime and Daisy in the boy's mind?"
Although it could've been possible, something else told the saboteur that wasn't the case. His charge on the other hand showed similar attributes. Jazz shook his head to the medic, " Not just Rio."
"That's impossible! Humans having those types of abilities don't–" Ratchet forced himself away from both Mechs, doing his best to collect himself.
Optimus took note of Jazz's idea. "That would explain what happened back there and yesterday morning."
Jazz cut in, "That doesn't explain why she kept quiet about it? I get that she still has trouble trusting us and that we met not too long ago… but I doubt she'll just tell anyone about…"
"About what?" Optimus asked.
Jazz sighs, "It's her — their personal matters."
Understanding, the Autobot leader got up from the medic berth and placed a servo on his right hand man. "Then in due time they will open up to us. For now, we'll focus on evacuating the townsfolk and getting the newcomers home."
Prime stole another glance at the humans and Pokemon before turning away and catching sight of Ratchet's counterpart. Judging by the time — later this morning they would have woken up. Optimus left the medbay leaving Jazz and Ratchet alone.
Something felt off, whatever it was was gently rubbing against her. She could brush it off for being one of her Pokemon but the texture felt metallic. The only steel type she has is Lucario — he's a soft boy though.
Awakening from her slumber Daisy locks eyes with her guardian. At first, her heart rate skyrocketed. Imagine waking up to someone x20 your height, that's how she felt in the moment.
It didn't go unnoticed by him, "Scared ya, huh, sweetspark?"
"Gonna give me a heart attack one of these days." Daisy shot back.
"Don't die on me now."
Jazz cupped his servo in a way that allowed his human to stand on her own. She gazes at her surroundings. She didn't recognize where she was.
Jazz grinned, "Yer in my chamber."
Daisy turned back in surprise. This was her first time in her guardian's room, most of her stay was with the CMO.
"It's different but looks the same nonetheless." The trainer commented.
"No duh. Ratchet wanted to keep a close eye on ya and Jon before anythin' else. The first time we met, ya were poison."
"No kidding, I still have the bottle on me. Speaking of Jon… have you heard from the other team? And how's Connor and Optimus."
Jazz carefully places Daisy on his berth before sitting up straight. "We haven't got any updates on Arcee's team. As for Connor and Optimus, boss bot is doing swell and Connor is sleeping. I brought you over once Ratchet gave you and Rio the clear."
Daisy looks over by the table catching Rio and Eliza talking with one another. She turns to Jazz as he picks her up again and places her in his arms. At this point in time, she didn't protest like she normally would've. She no longer needs to feel embarrassed being held.
Jazz comfortably laid back down on the berth — not completely laying down. After the experience from yester-morning she laid her head on his chest. Taking in the warmth of his spark (she understood why Eliza relaxed there last time).
They stayed like that for a moment, enjoying the comfort from one another.
"I'm sorry."
The saboteur looks down on his chest. His charge not bothering to look at him but listen to what she had to say.
"I feel like I've been arrogant this past week. Just because I've put myself in danger doesn't excuse the fact I can still die. Everything is going crazy! Most of the time it's fighting against an evil organisation, heck even I had my fair share but– I have never been in war before…
"It's scary. I Thought dealing with Eternatus and the mercenaries was bad as it was… Jazz, I don't know how to feel about this situation. Driftveil City got destroyed, the townspeople are gonna go starving, the vision with the lake guardians, we don't even know when we'll make it out safely!"
Jazz shifts in his position, getting Daisy closer to him to try and calm her down. Sooner or later he knew she was going to open up to him but not this soon. Needless to say, he was content with her openness.
"I know you're still upset with me about Jon. I wanted to tell you that I wasn't gonna leave him on his own. I had this thing going were I gave him a head start before catching up behind him."
"That's in the past but it still doesn't excuse you from separating from him. What if Mewtwo wasn't there to help out?" Jazz points out.
"But that's the problem," Daisy made eye contact with Jazz, " It happened because of Mewtwo. If we didn't find her we would've been in Mistralton City by now and wouldn't have met you."
Jazz took a moment to process this. He remembered what Bumblebee told him about their story and how this Pokemon is a legendary, but what was so special about it other than being a legendary?
Daisy could sense the confusion building up in her guardian. "Mewtwo is a legendary pokemon made by humans."
Jazz snapped out of his thoughts when he heard this, "Ya sayin' Mewtwo is man-made?"
"Yes. Not the only sentient man-made Pokemon that exists but it's one of the powerful ones, since she's a clone of Mew."
"And Mew is another legendary?"
"I believe it's classified as a mythical."
Legendaries, mythicals, normals, typings. Feels like some sort of video game targeted towards kids. Jazz recalled what he was talking to Ratchet earlier, perhaps Daisy could give some insight.
"Dais' what are ya abilities range?"
The trainer felt her blood iced. She knew eventually the Autobots would find out and the fact she almost told Optimus but it was still hard on her.
"Sense a person's emotions and communicate with Rio."
"That's it? I thought Aura Guardians could do more than that." Jazz said, tilting his head slightly.
"I- I'm not a Guardian and I won't be one anytime soon. If it's about Connor and what 'I' did, that wasn't me, that was Rio's work. I only helped by enhancing my aura with his."
"Calm down, no need to get defensive."
"What do you know about Aura Guardians? Did someone tell you, did Nate tell you?"
"No one told me directly. I figured it out when talking about Rio and before coming here. Bluestreak wondered if you could be an Aura Guardian after the incident with Connor."
Daisy leans back into Jazz's arms. She was hoping the 'bots wouldn't find out so soon, especially Jazz. The last time someone knew about her ability betrayed her trust.
Jazz didn't let her behaviour slip by and pressed the conversation forward. "Did someone hurt you?"
" … … Chairman Rose."
She didn't need to go further into detail, Jazz already knew what Chairman Rose did. Looking into the Darkest Day already gave an idea what the man put her through. The saboteur gently stroked her back, each wave calming her down.
"Thank you for listening to me rant. You're a good friend, you know?"
"What are friends for. I appreciate being higher than an acquaintance."
Daisy gave a titter. Jazz notes to her that when they were on the ride with Prowl, they both had their com link open. This made Daisy shock with embarrassment, making Jazz laugh due to her expression.
"Daisy, if anything, don't be afraid to ask about our life before we came to earth – both earth."
"I promise."
Nate walks through the Arks hallways, admiring the height of everything. Hound and Compass tailed behind him, keeping a close watch.
That night, Nate couldn't sleep; he felt restless. By Prowl's decision, Hound became his guardian. He didn't mind his new companion, after all, the two got along.
Right now, the two were headed towards the medbay. By now, the newcomers should be awake — especially that Cybertronian. Nate wonders what their reaction is going to be after finding out what has happened.
Nate took a misstep and tripped over himself. The lack of sleep and hunger was putting him over the edge. The food that they gathered had to wait to eat later this evening knowing that they only have tomorrow before it runs out.
"Nate, I would advise you to rest even for a little while. I know for a fact humans can't go without sleep for long periods of time." Hound worried.
Magneton flew down to the man's level and used its body to help the human up.
"Thank you," Nate told the Pokemon before speaking to Hound, " I'll take a nap once we finish talking with the Fallers."
They made their way by the door when it made an air lock sound. The doors open revealing Connor and his guardian, both startled by their presence.
Hound steps in first, "Hello, please don't be alarmed. My designation is Hound and these are my charges: Nate and Compass.
The adult human and magnet Pokemon stepped in the room, greeting the Cybertronian.
Ratchet* looks down on them, perplexed by the situation. He thought back on what Connor told him about being in a different dimension. He didn't doubt it because of the fact Miko, Jack, and Raphael got trapped in the shadow zone that one time.
Another thing that stood out to him was another Cybertronian. "It's nice to meet another Autobot around here. It's been too long."
Hound got close to the med berth, "Has it? Are there not other Autobots where you're from?"
"Unfortunately, no. There's only five of us keeping earth safe. What about you, how many Autobots are here?"
"That's a bit of a story," Hound chuckled, "there's more of us than it looks like but twenty-one of us got transported here."
Ratchet's optics widen at this revelation, "You're not from here?"
"Just like you, we are not. You can thank Shockwave for that."
Nate continued to put his body weight on Compass but didn't want to fall asleep just yet. He forces himself up from the Pokemon to call out his Braviary. A pop echoes and the Valiant Pokemon crow. Everyone looks at the floor watching the human get on Braviary's back and fly into the air.
Connor cringes remembering his fight with the bird but sighs in relief when it was fine.
Braviary landed on Hound's shoulder plate before getting recalled into his Pokeball. Nate then noticed the boy's new appearance. "It seems your claw has gone away, something happened?"
Connor blushes, "Just some talk with a friend."
Nate nodded when he saw the two share a glance, however, Hound wanted to continue the conversation he had.
"By the way," Connor perked up, "Are there any leftovers? I'm kinda hungry."
The trainer frowns, "You're not the only one, the rest of the townsfolk are too. We won't eat again until later this evening."
Connor silently panicked while Ratchet* was calm as ever, like he expected it. It made sense in a way.
An air lock sound rings throughout the room. Behind them was E-84 Ratchet. He flicks the lights on, instantly blinding everyone.
"Good, you're awake." He said to his counterpart. He then noticed Connor sitting on the counterpart's lap. "Hello to you too, Connor."
The medic passed by and headed straight for the monitors. Everything is clear before checking the physique of his counterpart. "You're clear to go. You're lucky the damage wasn't severe since we don't have proper equipment to patch you up. You should be able to walk on your own considering you and your charge are needed in the control room."
Hound turned in the medic's direction, "Optimus calling for a meet-up?"
"Yes, we want my counterpart to tell us exactly how they got here and might think of a way to send them back."
Nate spoke up hazily, "Even though you yourself can't find a way back?"
Connor and Ratchet* watch the two 'bots frown, making the duo wonder just how long they've been here.
"We should get going." Was the last thing the medic said before helping his counterpart and everyone leave the medical bay.
Ratchet* had his charge sitting on his shoulder plate while keeping paste with the Cybertronians. A wave of nostalgia washed over him — when was the last time he saw the Ark?
They enter the control room where most of everyone is presented. Ratchet* was stunned at the sight, almost recognizing everyone. Before the war on Cybertron before everyone got either killed or lost in space.
Connor pointed one 'bot, particularly in the middle. Optimus Prime — another version of him but it was Prime.
"Greetings, doctor, how are you feeling?" Optimus asked, gesturing towards him.
Right, even if it was another version of his old friend, Ratchet* couldn't be any more happy. "Rested long enough, thank you."
One by one the 'bots in the room shared their greetings with them. Another thing that didn't surprise him was there's another Wheeljack who looked excited about this meeting.
Connor shifted on his shoulder plate getting uncomfortable with all the staring. As much as he wanted to comfort him, he needed to focus.
"I am sure you all want to know where we are from, given the fact this meeting is occurring. Connor and I are from a different dimension; we got here due to a malfunction of our ground bridge."
There was a series of gasps and some going "A ground bridge?"
Wheeljack was the first to talk, "Amazing, you deconstructed a space bridge and scaled it down to a planet-only transport."
Ratchet looked confused, "Why yes, it is beneficial when you're stuck on a planet with limited transportation. Unfortunately, we are not the only ones who have this technology."
Everyone in the room talked between themselves. In their dimension, the space bridge was an ancient technology created during the Golden age of Cybertron — during the Great expansion.
However, this was a different universe altogether, so the likelihood of this happening is possible. Soon, everyone started asking questions, not just about the ground bridge but also how he'll get back. The question mostly came from the scientist trio: Wheeljack, Perceptor, and Jetfire (sometimes E-84 Ratchet). The other Autobots just asked little questions about the base and his relationship with the humans.
During the train of questions being asked, Nate took the time to take a little nap. Hound heard his steady breathing and decided to go to the far back of the room where it wouldn't be as loud. He carefully moves Nate from his position and cradles him.
Up front, Ratchet spoke again, "Although I have been through a similar situation in the past — not me personally but the three children we took care of before Connor knew about us. Their names are Jack, Miko, and Raphael."
The situation those children went through was illogical within itself but given how resourceful they can be, they managed a way to come back to their own reality.
"By using their phones connecting to the comm links, I was able to bring them back safely."
Blaster moved towards the control panels, pressing buttons in different areas. He then spun his attention to Ratchet*. "Alrighty, I got the comms in. Not sure how you really did it, but I'll give you the wheel with that."
Connor watched as Ratchet* started typing away, putting in various coordinates. The screen that displayed a bunch of Cybertronian text disappeared and was replaced by a voice.
/This is Optimus Prime from Autobot Outpost Omega One, state your purpose. How did you find this frequency?/
Everyone in the control room fell silent. They snap their helms at their own leader who was as surprised as them. Optimus looks towards Ratchet* and gave him the clear.
"Optimus, it's me, Ratchet."
There was radio silence on the other side before it spoke again. /Where are you, old friend?/
The newcomer explains everything to his leader as the Autobots behind him kept their silence. Not before long E-84 Optimus introduced himself to his counterpart. The Prime on the other side was caught off guard hearing himself but accepted it quickly.
In the far back of the room, Jazz and Daisy entered and stood next to Hound.
"He just fell asleep?" Jazz commented.
"A little over 30 minutes ago."
Magneton flew down to the young trainer and her partner Pokemon, greeting them before drawing their attention to the conversation upfront.
Ratchet* began giving introductions to his leader about the coordination to this dimension. "Once we get to the location you open the ground bridge from there."
/Understood/
Ratchet* spun around to the Autobots in the room, "Connor and I will have to return outside the cave and back to the town."
Prowl spoke up, "That requires a full team. I doubt the Decepticons have left the area, and having the two of you go on your own could put your life in danger."
"Wise decision Prowl. I will personally escort the both of you. Trailbreaker, Bluestreak, Ironhide, Mirage, you're coming along," Optimus said.
"Yes, sir!" they said in unison.
"What about Grimlock?!" The Dinobot protested.
"Remained here as backup."
The Dinobot leader huffed but took the command.
"This meeting is over," Optimus announced.
As each Autobot left one by one while a few stayed behind, Nate had finished taking his nap. Hound recap what has been said.
"Are we not going to help? Daisy question.
"No, you have done enough. Jazz, Hound, let these two and their pokemon rest." Optimus said as he walked over to the small group. Optimus didn't want his human (and Pokemon) allies to continue fighting — they had already done so much.
The humans wanted to protest but the leader's words were final.
Connor, who's still sitting on Ratchet's* shoulder, watched as the Autobot leader left the control room. His guardian noticed his demeanour and set him on the floor. Connor looks up at Ratchet* confused.
"Go say goodbye. I'll wait for you outside the Ark."
Nodding, Connor ran to the small group. When he got there both Daisy and Nate were waiting for him.
"Looks like this is it," he said with a hint of disappointment.
"Hey, don't feel too bad about it," Nate said.
"I wish I could but I put you all through a lot of stuff and–"
Daisy cut him off, "Connor, what's done is done. We already forgive you, plus no one got hurt."
"What about you? Is everything going to be okay? I wanna help you guys."
Nate rubs the back of his neck, "Sorry, but there isn't anything you can do. Look, even Optimus doesn't want us on the field. And don't you have a war of your own? See, it will be fine, we are trainers after all — we don't give up so easily."
"Right, don't let this be the end. One journey ends, a new one begins! It was nice knowing you, Connor. Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it the most, 'kay?" Daisy said smiling.
"Yes… thank you, all of you."
The three humans hug each other . Vaporeon yips and receives a hug too. The doll (Lizzy) wanted a hug but was too small so she got little fist bumps.
"Aww, how cute are they, eh, Hound?"
"See what I mean when I say humans can be cute?"
The two Autobots chuckle as the humans and Pokemon stared at them amused.
"Alright, little man, yer time is up." Jazz stated.
Connor smiled sadly, giving the trainers a final hug before leaving the control room.
Bluestreak waited by the entrance of the Ark, patiently waiting for Connor to come out. He viewed the camp and saw the Gym Leader conversing with his citizens. Yesterday, Bluestreak was helping Arcee's team with some of the humans and Pokemon, helping them pack for the trip to Mistralton City.
He closes his optics before opening them again. There was once a large group of people that was down to half. Small feet tapped their way out the Ark. When Blue looked down to see Connor, "Ready to go?"
"Yeah…"
Blue thought to himself, 'Poor guy, I wonder if he's sad he had to say goodbye.'
Following behind the human, they made it over to Clay tunnel where everyone waited at. Ratchet* picked up his charge and the two strolled behind Prime's team.
"Optimus, how would we be able to do this without the Decepticons catching on?" Trailbreaker query.
"I have no doubt they already have. If the ground bridge is already open, by the time we get there they would already be surrounding the area."
Once everyone made it out of the cave, they viewed the destroyed city; smokes still waved through the air. Slowly but surely, each Autobot moved their way into the town.
Going down the streets of Driftveil City, Bluestreak took to the side of the group, being the eyes of the team while Mirage was on the opposite side of him. Ironhide stayed behind the Fallers and Optimus with Trailbreaker took front.
They made sure to be careful with their footing, avoiding objects that could make noises. Optimus pauses the group when he hears flyers above them. Judging by the direction they were going it was safe to say they were heading the right way.
Everybot gazes at the homes around them. Deep in their spark, they wish the outcome wasn't like this. Their Earth has seen the horror Megatron has put them through and yet they want the Autobots to stay by their side.
Ratchet* frown at the scenery, of course he knows one day his Megatron will attack his Earth. The teen notices his guardian shaking his helm, "You alright, Ratch?"
"Yes, I just wish these human's predicament wasn't like this."
Bluestreak couldn't help but overhear them. He too wishes the same thing, every Autobot does but how the way things are, he just hopes the humans and Pokemon of this world will forgive them.
With each turn, Ratchet* and Connor help lead the Autobots to their destination.
"Optimus, stop!"
Everyone looks behind them towards Bluestreak before hearing chatter. The group creeped over to where the chatter was coming from, only to know that Optimus' prediction was right.
"Cons, lots of 'em," Ironhide said harshly.
Optimus surveys the scene; two elite Decepticons and ten drones. The drones should be easy to take out since there are more 'bots. However, having one of the Constructicons here could mean there's more of them lurking around.
Connor seemed confused. How was there other Decepticon, why were the Autobots so worried? He looks over to Ratchet for answers, too bad his guardian was more focused on getting themselves home.
Optimus started using hand gestures, signalling his soldiers where they must stand. The Autobot leader kept two mechs and the Fallers by his side. He was going to have to play it risky.
The two Decepticons chattered amongst one another. The green and purple Decepticon hover a pad over the green and blue vortex, picking up levels of energon.
"Unbelievable, this has a signature of a space bridge but the energy emitting from it is too low to be one," The green and purple Decepticon said.
Skywarp looked at the data pad but still didn't understand. In the end, it didn't matter to him what it was, just knowing it was some sort of bridge would alert Megatron. What's weird to him is that it appeared in the middle of a falling building. The seeker searched around the area — it showed evidence that someone was here. It made him wonder if it had to do with those two.
Connor and Ratchet smile with glee in silence knowing that the plan works, the only downside is getting through without any of the Decepticons following them. Connor began to have a heavy heart… they were going to leave this place, for good. 'Don't let this be the end. One journey ends, a new one begins!' her words sang in his mind, yeah, let this not be the end.
The doll that's in the boy's arms, taps him. Lizzy gave little taps to comfort him in a way. With a heavy sigh, he was ready to leave this world.
The two bots turned their heads to the leader. "Trailbreaker, stay close with Ratchet and Connor — Optimus opens his comm link — Mirage, Ironhide, help me create a distraction. Bluestreak, give us cover. Autobots, roll out!"
The Prime transforms into his semi-truck alt and dashes towards the Seeker and Constructicon, crashing into them before going back into his robot mode. Mirage appears behind one of the drones and smashes its helm. Ironhide began blasting his way through each drone giving a clearing.
"Now's our chance!" Trailbreaker informed.
Ratchet switches Connor from his shoulder and onto his arms. The teen wanted to protest but was shut up quickly as the two Cybertronians started running.
As plasma fires in every direction, Trailbreaker puts up a shield as cover. They ran and ran almost to be stopped by Skywarp who wanted a refight but got shot by Bluestreak. They continued moving forward until they got close to the ground bridge.
The Autobot paused in front of them, spreading his forcefield so the two can make it on the other side safely.
Ratchet slowed down, taking one last glance of this world ( and so did Connor). The medic's optics showered them with thank you. Before he took a step into the ground bridge, Trailbreaker shouted at them as a drone slipped by and entered the ground bridge with them.
Seconds passed by until the drone that went in with them was sent out flying with ice covering parts of its body.
The vortex started to close as every Cybertronians watched. This was the Autobots' cue to leave.
Just when the Autobots entered the cave, above in the sky, Laserbeak focused his lenses as the Autobots entered Clay tunnel.
Optimus and the other Autobots arrived at the campsite, making it in time to see the humans and Pokemon gather their food for today. Walking over from the campsite, Prowl came to the Prime's side.
"We are running low on human and Pokemon resources. They only have until tomorrow before everything is dried up. I advise we pick up and go before any unnecessary casualties."
Optimus nodded and headed towards the Ark. He rushed his way into the control room where Blaster was still on the comm link. The communication officer turned when he felt the leader's presence.
"Blaster, inform Wheeljack, Ratchet, Perceptor, and Jetfire to download every data on this ship. Try to communicate with Arcee's team for a path to use to avoid Decepticon preying optics. We are taking these humans and Pokemon out of here."
Unbeknownst to them, a certain legendary pokemon was keeping watch of the cave entrance — Clay tunnel, as troopers started coming closer.
As The Journey Continues...
A/N
So, this chapter is a crossover within itself with another fanfic called "Believed in Magic: TFP fanfiction"
Don't worry too much about what's going on, some parts of this fic are relevant to the canon (This fic) story. This chapter has been uploaded early before Wattpad because I'm working on the drawings for it.