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lets-try-some-writing · 5 months

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Silence is Salvation

None know where the Angels of Death came from, but when they broke free from the earth, there was no stopping them. Now millennia after the fall, Cybertron is split in two. Those with wings life safely in their floating city, unable to be touched by the Angels which roam the ground. Those with wheels on the other hand were left to perish, to serve as prey for the abominations that all Cybertronians.

In this new age, only silence is salvation, and Orion Pax has only one goal. He will find a way to defeat the angels for the sake of all their kind.

(This is the first chapter of an AU I have been cultivating quietly. I decided to put it here to gauge the reaction to it. Hope you all enjoy :D)

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Orion Pax was the designation given to him upon his creation. He did not know who his Carrier was, nor his Sire. But according to the others, he did not have either since he was one of the last grounders who emerged from the Well of Allsparks, a final wave of hopeful newsparks not yet adapted to survive in their deadly world. Others of his generation perished almost immediately, and Orion would have been part of the unfortunate masses if not for the appearance of the Patriarch.

Orion was lucky. He was part of what his fellows called 'The Line of Primes', a legacy all those who served under the Patriarch shared that secured their futures. He did not understand when he was young, but he did know one thing, a simple but essential lesson.

Silence is salvation.

He had few memories of his early sparklinghood, a not uncommon trait amongst those who were born of the Well. However the beginning of his life stuck with him and never faded, usually haunting him during the loneliest part of travels.

He recalled climbing and hearing the sound of things that his coding instinctually told him were not of his kind. He remembered pulling himself out and watching in silent horror as those who came alongside him were slaughtered by long limbed creatures without features save for their deadly maws. He only escaped the devastation by pure happenstance. A piece of rubble was just large enough for him to hide beneath as the creatures wreaked havoc.

There was a moment of salvation during that formative cycle. As Orion huddled in fear beneath the rubble and watched through a crack the absolute carnage playing out before him, he saw something nearly angelic. Beings he knew to be Cybertronian flew overhelm, their wings glittering in the light of the nearest star like a promise of sanctuary. Orion almost left his place as he saw them dive toward the ground. They had to be there to help him, maybe even to kill the creatures.

That was what his younger self assumed. He was dead wrong.

The flight capable Cybertronians did not stop the slaughter. Instead, they dived and scouted, watching the sparklings being killed and devoured. Only once they seemed to have gotten enough data did they twist and glide toward the ground, their thunderous engines catching the attention of the creatures and leading them away. Once the creatures took off in chase of several of the flyers, two landed and transformed, their bodies shining and their plating all but glowing as the light bounced off them.

Orion remembered calling out, small cries coming from his vocalizer as the flyers wandered and looked over each sparkling, the living and the dead. However, as the young gathered around the flyers, looking up at them with optics shining in hope, Orion remained hidden. Something deep in his coding told him that leaving his hiding place was a death sentence despite the fact that fellow Cybertronians stood mere meters away.

He was right in following his code.

The flyers looked over each and every sparkling, disregarding all save for those who bore wings just as they did. The grounder sparklings wailed in confusion as the flyers scooped up the four sparklings gifted with wings and returned to the skies, their thrusters causing the little ones to fall to the ground coughing up dust and soot. Then, just like that, the flyers that led the creatures away could be seen joining their brethren in the air, shooting off into the distance without so much as a moment of hesitation to consider the dozens of other sparklings abandoned on the ground.

There was no salvation for those poor sparks, and Orion could only watch as they were left to their doom.

Bodies littered the ground, energon spilled from lifeless frames, and limbs lay strewn about the scene as if some sort of grizzly decoration. Orion was too young to fully understand what he was seeing at the time, but he knew that leaving his hiding place and making any noise at all would lead the things to him. The creatures came running the moment his fellows cried out in terror at being left behind, and they did not hesitate to eliminate the young grounders. Even the fastest of his fellows had been caught and cut down the moment they screamed. Orion was not gifted with swiftness, he was not blessed with agility. There was nothing he could do but hide and remain silent.

His decision to remain in his hiding place saved his life, and on that cycle he learned a very harsh truth. The world he was born into was not one that loved him and his kind. Only those graced with wings were seen as living beings worthy of being saved. Despite that-

Not all hope was lost.

He did not know how long he lingered in his place beneath the rubble, too frightened to move and terrified for his life. But at some point, he heard noises beyond the confines of his small haven. On instinct, he looked through the crack in his hiding place fully expecting to see another creature prowling around the bodies of the dead to consume them or to note their status and select a new direction to continue its hunt. Instead, Orion all but cried in relief as he saw someone just like him. The Cybertronian had no wings, instead possessing a cape and a sturdy frame fitting of one intended to govern over the ground. A smile graced the features of the one who shared his frame type and Orion managed a sniffle, too afraid to do much else.

"Come. It is safe." Orion never moved so fast in his short existence as he scurried from his hiding place and into the arms of his savior. He knew what the words meant from his inbuilt datapack, but it mattered very little to him. All he cared about was the simple fact that he was safe in the arms of a being that felt like family. From that point onward, his memory of his early life devolved into a mix of emotion, sights, sounds, and smells. But he was aware of the arms that carried him, constantly hushing him when he tried to make a noise. Steady servos that fed him energon shards that caused his tanks to hurt for his first few vorns of life. And soothing fields that washed over him, calming him on dark cycles when the creatures roamed nearby.

At some point, he learned to whistle instead of speak. Noise that was unnatural brought the creatures, and that could not be allowed. Eventually, his savior and the dozens of others who shared his similar features and colors showed him how to speak with his servos through gestures and symbols. He learned that his vocalizer was unneeded in the face of far safer communication and it did not take him long to adapt to the new method of speech, no matter how much it went against the coding he was created with. When he was old enough, he was taught to express himself with his EM field, ensuring his emotional outbursts remained completely silent. The creatures could not sense their fields after all. It was their one true safety blanket.

Silence was his reality, noise brought death.

When he had completely learned to communicate in the various ways of his comrades, he was able to continue his education. He became aware of the fact that his savior had a designation. The one who saved him was called Alpha Trion, a designation only whispered by his fellows when they were near sources of natural sound which covered their murmuring. It was at that time that he also learned the names of his fellows and was able to tell them his. Up until that point he had only been referred to by a specific gesture as a way to ensure he was able to be set apart as an individual while also not requiring speech. That suited him just fine, and he actually preferred the silence.

Of course during those hushed moments by plasma pits and oil springs, Orion Pax was told stories of the old world and given gifts far greater than most of his frame type would ever receive.

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"We are the last of the Well Forged." One of his fellows, a young mech perhaps a millennia old who operated under the servo gesture 'Little-Bird' spoke up amidst the hiss of the oil spring nearby. His voice was deep and echoey, a side effect of only speaking when absolutely required. His frame was gaunt and thin, hardened by cables long since toned by continued exertion and covered in scars from many vorns of receiving injuries without plating to protect his protoform. Even still he pulled datacables from their sockets on his armorless frame and smiled as he extended them, testing their abilities as he continued.

"We are remnants of the old world, the only keepers of ancient knowledge. They once called mecha like us Archivists. In the old world, we guarded and tended to great citadels of knowledge where information from all over the world was stored." Little-Bird spoke with awe in his voice, a reaction Orion shared. Little-Bird's protoform strained as he reached out for Orion, every cable and wire visible on his body as he worked. To Orion it looked cold, but he knew it would not be long before he too would need to shed his armor to remain silent while moving.

"There are not many of us, but we have one goal." Little-Bird's datacables slipped into a socket on the back of Orion's helm, connecting directly to his processors. It was uncomfortable the first few times his fellows fed him data in this way, but every time he grew more used to the process. Already Bright-Fire, Tall-One, and Smoke-in-the-Wind had offered their collective memory and knowledge. Orion knew more with every upload, and each time he saw more glimpses of the world that came before.

Every Archivist carried the data preserved from the fall of their world. Upon death, that knowledge was downloaded by the remaining Archivists to be given to the next generation to preserve. Orion had never had to collect what remained of the dead personally, but more than once in his short life he witnessed the frames of the fallen, abandoned after being shredded by the Angels. Often the abominations did not even want fuel, merely a chance to hunt without aim.

"We have been ordered to preserve the knowledge of the old world and use it to find a way to defeat the Angels, no matter the cost." Little-Bird's fists clenched in anger as he uploaded his data. Memories flowed into Orion's mind, showing him images of cities glittering gold and offering data from all sorts of seemingly unconnected sources. More knowledge than he could ever use was dutifully filed away in his processors to be tended to until he had need to call upon it.

It hurt to have so much put into his helm all at once, but he understood Little-Bird's anger as he also received memories of the fallen that Little-Bird had collected from the bodies of the dead. Dozens of other Archivists, ones Little-Bird had been raised alongside, all eliminated. Each were cut down by Angels or torn to pieces by raiders, as was common amongst those who lived on the ground.

More memories greeted him as Little-Bird’s anger transferred over. Little-Bird had not lived to see the fall of the old world, but the memories garnered from that time had endured. In front of his optics Orion saw cities, shining and powerful, all reduced to rubble as Angels of Death broke free from the ground like some convoluted version of a sleeper agent and proceeded to slaughter all in range. He saw countless mecha cut down, torn to pieces as the Angels rampaged. Mech, femme, and sparkling alike were slaughtered with equal prejudice.

It was all so loud, so… wrong. The old world was bright and noisy, filled with color and life. Then over the course of a few memory files, shells were dropped, bombs launched, and everything fell silent as survivors fled and the Angels endured. Orion did not wish to believe it. How could he?

“What caused the old world to crumble?” Orion questioned softly, not wanting to aggravate his fellow Archivist more than necessary. Little-Bird looked up, his expression softening into something more akin to sorrow rather than rage. Through their connection, Little-Bird must have sensed his denial as he calmly picked Orion up, placing his small frame on his lap.

“The Angels came, freed from where they lingered in stasis underground. They have no thoughts, no sentience. They are merely creatures that destroy and hunt us regardless of whether or not they require fuel.” Little-Bird ran his digits along Orion’s helm, easing the nervous flutter of his spark and smothering his fears in the comfort of clan bonds.

“Millions perished, and those who did not quickly learned to survive… save for those with wings. They did not struggle like the rest of us. They merely fled to their floating city, abandoning the rest of us to the Angels.” Bitterness seeped into Little-Bird’s voice, memories of an Archivist begging for aid from a flier only to be denied repeated in Orion’s processors.

"Those in Vos have done nothing to save us despite the fact that they have the power to act. We can only rely on ourselves." Little-Bird scowled as Orion was given memories and data about the flying city. When the world fell, only those who had wings were able to escape the devastation by fleeing to the floating city of Vos. Grounders, those not blessed with the ability to grace the skies, were left to rot and serve as prey for the Angels of Death. There were reasons according to the data Orion was given. Too many mecha living in the city would be unsustainable, an understandable reason to be picky about who to save.

But that was not their greatest sin. No, the reason all of grounder kind hated those who were blessed with wings was quite simple. Not only could they flee from and lead the Angles away, they had the ability to give grounders the chance to collect energon in peace and save their sparklings from death. They did not need to live in the last shining city of the old world, all grounders needed was help.

Help that they had been denied time and time again for the simple fact that it was inconvenient for the high and mighty flyers.

"This life is a dangerous one Orion Pax, but we do it for the safety of all our kind. If we cannot find a solution, then we need to be ready to preserve our history so that hopefully, others may use our wisdom to end the threat." Little-Bird grasped Orion's shoulder, a determined glint in his optics. Orion nodded as the data upload finished and he laid down to process it. The last moments of Archivists killed by numerous threats played out in his mind as data was filed away. He tried not to listen to the screams as he focused on adjusting.

It would fade with time, and when it did, he would learn from the mistakes of his elders. Death was common on the ground, but it was also sacred. Every death offered wisdom and insight that could be used by others. No death was meaningless, regardless of how hard it was to see the last agonizing moments of those who did not have Primus's favor.

Knowledge was power. An Archivist could not afford to lack any of it.

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Orion grew in the quiet, never uttering a word as he graduated from being carried on the backs of one of his fellows to walking on his own two pedes in response to his increasing knowledge. That was when his education changed yet again. He had long since learned to communicate without so much as a peep, but moving in silence was a whole other matter. He was a hazard to his clan and it showed with how often Alpha Trion needed to wield his relic to keep the Angels at bay.

Neither Orion nor the others knew exactly what Alpha Trion was or why his Covenant kept the Angels away, but they did not feel the need to know. So long as they remained close to their leader, he could open his great book and extend his field and the Angels would simply be unable to locate them or otherwise flee.

Usually, Orion and his clan kept far away from settlements built around natural sources of sound. They did not like to be involved in the politics of the gangs and other such organizations that ran those areas. Often their travels took them through the remnants of cities where their duties included hunting for anything of the old world still salvageable. Sometimes that meant taking memories from the dead if their frames were not too damaged. In other instances that entailed going through highly dangerous areas filled with finicky technology that could make any number of noises in order to get to relics and items of interest.

Whatever they did, it was always a gamble.

Orion was quick to learn how to stalk quietly. His fellows all shed their armor once they reached younglinghood since by that point it grew too bulky and noisy to be kept. Thus, Orion followed their example. With the help of his comrades, his armor was cut away and he was left in just his protoform. His inbuilt weapons which had only just begun to come online were swiftly shut down and Orion was taught to vent manually instead of running his fans. Cool air had to be cycled through his intake instead of his vents and heated air had to be released the same way. He struggled greatly to regulate his temperature as he adjusted, often passing out for the first few stellar cycles.

But his fellows were patient, and Alpha Trion was willing to stop so that Orion could train in the art of silent steps. It took him time, and he was never as quiet as his fellows. However eventually he managed to achieve a degree of silence in his steps that at least ensured he wouldn't die the moment he put his pede down too hard. Regulating his temperature manually became second nature and before long Orion was ready to receive his first and only augment, the one every grounder got as soon as they learned the art of silence normally.

Never before had he actually been to a settlement for more than a swift pass through to collect energon. But to receive his augments, he was taken to the only doctor Alpha Trion trusted with his Archivists.

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"How old is he?" The doctor, known as Ratchet in the spoken tongue, asked as he readied his tools.

"Nineteen vorns. He has completed his preliminary training and is ready to begin his advanced survival training as soon as his augments are in place." Alpha Trion replied from where he held Orion's servo. The Patriarch liked to be with each of his Archivists when they got their augments, and that Orion was thankful for. His fellows were not subtle in making it clear that receiving his augments was going to hurt like a glitch.

"Never one to waste time are you?" Ratchet remarked with a hint of sass in his tone. Alpha Trion said nothing as Ratchet sighed and collected a series of saws.

"I haven't been able to make more anesthetic. I cleared out my old clinic vorns ago and I don't have the tools to produce new compounds without attracting the Angels. This will hurt." Ratchet was blunt as he held up the saw. Orion's optics widened and he bit his derma as he looked up at Alpha Trion in fear. He was no stranger to pain since removing his armor. Protoform took time to harden and be capable of taking a hit without causing severe damage. Even still, a saw to his legs…

"All will be well Orion Pax. These augments are the first of many trials you will endure, but these changes will serve you well." Alpha Trion's field brushed over Orion, calming his spark's nervous spin. He vented deeply through his intake, just as he had been trained in order to calm himself without sound. Then after a moment of readying himself mentally, he nodded. There was no need for words.

"I will try to keep this as quick as I can." Ratchet alerted before his saw descended on Orion's right leg.

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Ratchet kept his promise that cycle. Having performed the surgery countless times before, the process only took a joor. Despite that, Orion was left bedridden for several cycles afterward as his new legs healed and his various minor augments settled.

When he could stand again, Orion had to relearn how to walk all over again. Having legs like that of a cyber-feline was not exactly comfortable after spending all of his sparklinghood with the leg structure of the average bipedal. A reinforced jaw was also new, along with claw attachments on his digits and heightened senses. However, when he rejoined his fellows, he found that the augments were indeed a huge boon.

He was able to easily stalk as his comrades did now that his legs were restructured to grant him greater stride and a larger distribution of his frame weight across the ground. Running on all fours was now also possible due to the claw attachment, giving him the ability to climb and run like a mech-animal without damage. Keeping up with his fellow Archivists was no longer a chore and rather a joy. Silence was his specialty and he greatly enjoyed the freedom his newfound speed offered him. There would still not be any escape from the Angels if they caught him, but at least like this he could travel faster than before.

His reinforced jaw allowed him to finally learn how to find and extract energon as well. Little-Bird and Gold-Sky had more than a bit of fun watching him try to scratch away at energon deposits, collecting as many scrapes as he could without alerting any Angels. They had far less fun when he broke off a whole energon chunk by accident and Alpha Trion had to use his Covenant to ward off the Angels.

Still, he learned. His heightened senses finally let him notice the things his comrades did. His legs gave him speed and silence he never had before, and his jaw at last let him eat without someone else needing to hunt for energon for him and crush the crystal into something consumable. He was no longer a sparkling.

Fully recognized as one of the number of Archivists, Orion Pax spent a few more vorns traveling with Alpha Trion and receiving data uploads until he had all of the old archives within him. But all things had to come to an end, and eventually there came a cycle when Alpha Trion looked over the Archivists he had led so dutifully for vorns on end and bid them all farewell. It came out of the blue for Orion, but the elder Archivists seemed to expect it when Alpha Trion sat with them one final time and gave each of them a data upload from his own processors to ensure they lost nothing and were able to preserve what they gained.

"Why is he leaving us?" Orion whispered his question to Little-Bird, the one who had become a mentor to him over the vorns. Little-Bird merely patted him on the helm fondly and watched Alpha Trion complete another data upload with an Archivist.

"It is the way. When we are grown and ready to set out on our own, Alpha Trion will give us our final data upload and we are to scatter and search on our own." Orion's finials perked at the information. This couldn't be right. Was it not more effective to travel as a clan? They were family, and together they had strength.

"I do not understand." Orion murmured as Alpha Trion came nearer.

"You will. We all do eventually." Little-Bird assured before standing and wandering off to another group of Archivists preparing to leave. Evidently, they had decided to stay together once Alpha Trion dispersed them.

"Orion Pax, last forged Descendant of the Thirteenth born of the Well of Allsparks." Alpha Trion listed his full title as the Patriarch knelt down to Orion's level. The Covenant sat on Alpha Trion's hip comfortably as he took Orion's servos and rubbed circles onto the front with his thumbs. Such a small gesture, and yet Orion wanted to cry all the same. This was farewell. He had never truly been alone his whole life.

"Do not fear that which lies beyond. Ahead of you is a future filled with joy. You need only seek it out and endure the trials that come with it." Alpha Trion's datacables slid from their sockets and into Orion's with ease. Orion relished in the feeling as Alpha Trion scoured his processors, making minor alterations to ensure nothing Orion learned was lost.

"Travel to the old City of Iacon. Search for the Matrix of Leadership. There you will find what you need." As Alpha Trion pulled away, Orion almost wept at the loss of connection. However, he stayed strong as the Patriarch moved onto the next Archivist in line. He had a mission now.

Iacon was on the other side of the world and was by far one of the largest cities on the planet. It would be a nightmare to comb through, but he would search. His records had a great deal to say about the Matrix of Leadership. Such information would surely be needed if and when he located the relic.

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'Orion Pax. What are you doing here?' Ratchet signed as Orion walked into his clinic. The Medic was always on the move, it was quite a pain to track him down. But Orion was not going to be wandering into any cities without someone to repair him on call. His fellow Archivists had fallen too many times not to death by the Angels, but instead due to injuries long left untreated as a result of having no friends or clan.

Archivists were known for traveling alone. Orion had no such interest in doing the same. Success would come to him with the aid of others, this he knew from his time with the Archivists.

'I come with an offer.' Orion signed back as he put down a series of tools he managed to bribe off a fellow Archivist before they went their separate ways. Ratchet's optics blew wide as he saw the tools, all in pristine condition. Orion was not sure where they were found, but any medic would kill to have such tools, that much he knew. Without the means to make more equipment, at least without Vos getting involved, all tools were valuable and knowledge sacred.

'What do you want?' Ratchet questioned, his servos hesitating and his field extending in suspicion. Orion did not begrudge him that as he smiled and bowed slightly in respect. Politeness was always the correct course of action with those who were to hopefully become a clan.

'I wish to travel and explore the cities, but I cannot do so alone. Too many of my fellows have died due to lack of practical knowledge and medical care.' Ratchet remained on guard but gradually seemed to come to some sort of calm as he took the tools and examined them. He took his time and Orion did not rush him as the medic looked over the offering. These sorts of agreements were sacred and took time.

'You wish for me to join you in your wanderings.' Orion nodded once and Ratchet returned the gesture, both understanding the other.

'We will stop at every settlement along the way so that I may tend to those in need of repairs.' Ratchet put forward his demands and Orion almost allowed his shock to show as he nodded. Such reasonable terms were all but unheard of, especially among those as highly regarded as medics. Still, he would not question such a gift.

'That is more than agreeable.' Orion smiled and Ratchet took a moment to think before he did the same. They reached out and shook servos, agreement filtering through their fields. They would not be clan for some time. Those bonds were slow to form, but as it was, they had the beginnings of a family. All clans started with deals, as was the nature of the surface.

'Then I will gather my things and we can prepare to set off. I would recommend a guide however. A mech who knows the area and has connections would be valuable.' Ratchet suggested as he began to collect his small assortment of items. Medics tended to travel light.

'I believe I have a mech in mind.' Orion assured as his processors kicked into action, providing him information about local guides. He and his former clan hired the services of one particular mech enough times to prove he was trustworthy. If he could be found, he would be instrumental in the success of Orion's mission.

'And who would that be, young Archivist? Your kind do not tend to associate with settlements enough for me to believe you truly know what you are talking about.' Ratchet raised an optical ridge and Orion merely smiled again.

'I am unlike my kin. I wish to form a clan to travel alongside. With that in mind, I was thinking of the guide known as Jazz. He has aided my former clan on occasion.' The medic paused, thinking as he put the last of his things into his pack. He seemed skeptical before he appeared to recognize the designation and signed back his response, only seeming a little exasperated.

'That one will be nothing but trouble... but his skill is undeniable.' Orion grinned and Ratchet shook his helm. He had a feeling things were going to end up alright in the end. He just had to get to Iacon and find the Matrix. Then he could figure out everything else.

In the worst case scenario, he would at least get a good relic out of the mission and hopefully some clanmecha as well.

#transformers #maccadam #transformers prime #orion pax #alpha trion #ratchet #alternate universe #silence is salvation au #post apocalyptic #worldbuilding #fic idea #I brainstormed with a buddy to get this thing planned out #I have more ideas for this au if it is seem favorably

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nova--spark · 5 months

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Ngl, definitely having this thought right now.

If you know the tf fic idea of a human being reincarnated as a Cybertronain, then good. If not, don't worry, it's been a minute since I've read those type of fics. Most of which weren't completed when I had read them.

Anyway, timeskip au. Tfp kids live their lives as humans, right? Only they pop back in as Cybertronains on Cybertron.

Que mass confusion from both parties once they meet their guardians and explain everything and its proven true, as well as fear from maybe a few Cons. Mind you, zero of the fics I had read never gave reason for the reincarnation, so do with that what you will as to why the three are now back as Cybertronains.

Interested to see your take on my ask, ngl.

Fun fact, reincarnation is a huge fave of mine, I will always play around with the idea

Reincarnated as Sparklings AU

Having reached the end of their natural lives, the Jasper trio had left behind a legacy by which to be remembered, one that their families, both robotic and organic, would hold firm and proudly now that they were gone...

Which caused quite the shock, when of all things, they reawoke on Cybertron, as something entirely new, in metal bodies of their own.

Call it fate, call it a gift, but be it the Primes or even Primus himself, they had been reborn, in the form of Cybertronians no less, each befitting their natures in their past life.

Jack was fast, his form sturdy but still one no less meant for speeds that a normal vehicle couldn't easily reach, but could also take the hits dealt out if necessary. Fitting really, when those he had to guide him before had been Arcee and his close bonds with Smokescree.

Miko was blessed not just with a form that could dish out hits as well as take them, but with wings to soar high above, a fact she was more than elated by, and no doubt, her family of Wreckers would be surprised when they saw their reborn teammate.

Rafael came as a bit of a shock, but it made quite a bit of sense once looking closer. Given many of the features of a bot with highly advanced processors and data cables, yet also tools by which to repair those he cared for, Raf was a natural in this form.

Once they were able to understand these new forms better, the first thing they did was speed off to find Team Prime, which proved to be little challenge.

They found Ratchet, who had been working a volunteer shift at the sparkling facility when in came 3 rambunctious bots, who immediately called his name and--

Wait how did they even--

It took the next few hours for them to explain, but after some questions that only they would know, Ratchet had sped them off to a small home of his own, where he contacted the rest of the team.

All were shocked, but none more than Optimus, who remained oh so still, as the three reborn came up to him and embraced him tightly.

Oh how his spark sang as he embraced his once young children with fervor, careful not to harm them, but oh so happy to be reunited with them.

A gift of Primus indeed.

Their family was whole again.

#transformers #maccadam #maccadams #transformers prime #tfp #tf prime #nova musings #nova writings #Reborn Spark AU

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starry-saturn-nights · 1 year

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Transformers Prime x Tron Legacy AU

World-building and General Plot

>Enter The Grid

The first server created was called ‘Cybertron’ it is where all programs where created. Specifics on creation varies based on who you ask, but usually follows the consensus that the spark for all programs originated from another being that came from ‘The Portal’. An ancient ruin standing at the very center of Cybertron.

Centuries of civil war between the factions ‘The Autobots’ and ‘The Decepticons’ has severely damaged and degraded the home server of ‘Cybertron’ forcing those that remain to find refuge in its sub servers, outskirts or other servers entirely.

>Programs

Programs are beings created in The Grid. It has been many centuries since a new program has been created, as the home server of ‘Cybertron’ is to damaged to produce new life. All programs have an identity disk which can display their very code and is the means for which a program can scan and transform into an alternative mode. A program is limited to two modes, their base mode and their alternative mode (although tales have been told about programs having more than two modes).

>Users

Tales have it that once beings from another world accessed through ‘The Portal’ roamed The Grid. They were called ‘Users’ and they seemed to have the ability to alter The Grid. One ‘User’ who designated themselves as ‘Primus’ is said to have been the origin of all programs. Belief in the existence of ‘Users’ ranges from program to program but all that might change when three human children stumble upon an abandoned arcade. . .

Inspired by this post: https://www.tumblr.com/novafire-is-thinking/712357143215505408/cybertron-legacy-soundwave by @novafire-is-thinking

#transformers prime #tfp AU #tron legacy #tron legacy AU #transformers #tfp tron au

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blueikeproductions · 2 months

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I’ve been seeing debates on whether Hasbro should do a remake/continuation of G1’s cartoon. While most have said no for one reason or another, citing the poor reception to MOTU: R and the mixed reception to X-Men in particular, I’m more curious on the matter. While I agree we don’t need it, part of me really wants Hasbro to do it just to see what they’d do with it.

I��ve seen some point out there wouldn’t be toys to sell for it, but my rebuttal is that’s what Legacy/Prime Generations is for. Basically just have this hypothetical show be the WFC/PW equivalent. One MAJOR stipulation: it must be tonally in line with the original cartoon and Transformers Devastation. Make this an all ages, but especially kid friendly show. None of that nonsense PW/WFC did. In fact keep those writers away from it, bring in Simon Furman, Flint Dille & Bob Budiansky to throw in some sexy adjectives and be script supervisors/editors to the new staff.

As for the plot, it depends on what they’d do: full remake-AU or continuation. The later would be simpler I think, just following up on what Galvatron and Zarak have been up to and the Autobots’/humanity’s reaction to it.

No matter what they’d do I feel like Hasbro would insist on lite retcons that include the 13 Primes and their Relics, which in turn fuel Galvatron and Zarak’s ambitions, while Optimus and Hot Rod have shared premonitions about the history of the Prime lineage, revealing in the cartoon universe, the thirteen primes were the prototypes the Quintessons developed after the Trans-Organics, with the Prime relics being Quintesson tools the Primes inherited after the Quints were driven off Cybertron. The Quints aren’t particularly happy their own tools are being uncovered, let alone seeing Galvatron using the Forge to upgrade his troops into Micromasters, Action Masters, & Pretenders. It becomes a race to see who collects the relics, with the Autobots determined to stop the Quintessons and Decepticons from abusing this ancient power. All the while, Solus Prime, Alchemist Prime and Quintus Prime are watching from the sidelines, the last survivors of the ancient Primes. And because Furman, there’d be a bit in here about Grimlock being a vessel for Onyx Prime temporarily, lol.

A clean slate AU could be done any number of ways, though my stipulation would absolutely no Allspark plot, but instead maybe combine elements of Dark of the Moon and Devastation where the factions are looking for the Ferotaxxis, which possess the data necessary to restore Cybertron by producing Synthetic Energon to whoever finds it first. The Ferotaxxis is unearthed by humans meanwhile, who study it and the unearthed Nova Prime, seeing a technological boom as far as the 80’s/90’s are concerned (similar to the Bay films and Sumac Systems in Animated). Nova isn’t particularly pleased at being poked and prodded by what he deems a lazy inferior species, and like Bay Sentinel concocts a scheme to screw over humanity, Optimus’ Autobots and secure the Ferotaxxis to gift Cybertron Earth’s energy. Because Cybertron is all that matters, the devil with anything that gets in the way of it.

The Autobots human friends would be Spike, Carly and Chip, the children of scientists and engineers working on Project O-Part; the O-Part, the Ferotaxxis, reacting to the Autobots and Decepticons presence on Earth.

The plot would then extend to the lineage of the 13 Primes and their relics, as they were things Nova and the Ferotaxxis were privy to, leading to the Autobots and the kids from stopping the Decepticons from getting their hands on the relics, with another wrinkle being added that some countries already found some like Carbomya, and won’t surrender them easily…

Like I said this concept can go any direction, but for a pivoted AU, this is just how I’d do it, going by what I assume Hasbro would still want with the 13 Primes being a component. Elements of Skybound would probably be here too, like Spike and Carly being those designs in particular.

But I think continuing where The Rebirth left off would be the better option, being the easiest to work with and with the already admittedly shoddy continuity of the G1 cartoon, you could pretty effortlessly add aspects of Skybound, IDW (and by that I mean characters like Nova, Rung, Rubble, Termagax, Three Fold Spark, etc) and the modern 13 lore.

Will do they do it? If they’re desperate enough, absolutely, but I don’t know if we’re entirely there yet. It’s getting closer and closer though.

#blueike productions #blueike #transformers #maccadam

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ao3wasntenough · 2 years

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New Au,

Scrap drawing robots,

The Robots are now humanoid but aside from looking right out of an anime they're just OBNOXIOUSLY tall.

AND JUMP CUT THEIR LEAVING EARTH AND GOING BACK TO CYBERTRON.

Basically playing out like Cyberverse.

ANYWAY, their taking Sam with them cause alien allspark radiation is just really suspicious to leave with the humans so sorry Sam no choice really. Sucks for Sam He big sad, the woes of being the only person missing earth.

Now, it’s gonna get cracked

HOWEVER MY AU MY RULES

SUNSTREAKER DECIDES THE USUALLY FEISTY HUMAN BEING ALL SAD IS BRINGING HIS COOL DOWN SO NOW HE'S STEPPING UP IN BEES PEDS TO MAKE SAM HAPPY

DOESNT LAST LONG

Cybertron Dying,

Still at war,

No allspark.

Sam stays on the ship happily while everyone goes to scope it out. That doesn't last long before Sam gets dragged out by Megalotron and Meggy has sharp claws so he bleeds, however more surprising then red blood, when his blood touches the planet's surface, it seems to come to life minutely,

Cue Meggs trying to start a human blood bath,Prime stepping in to get Sam to Bumblebee, and taken to the allspark chamber and figure out what’s happening.

Sunstreaker thinks this is very uncool and they kinda converge on the allspark chamber.

One truamatising scene of Sam literally bleeding from every hole on his face in big beam of blue, gold eyes manifesting a new allspark via the shear Will of Primus who's temporarily swapped conscious with Sam to tell them "Don't fuck it up again" (this will tie toSam kinda having a moment of being forced to become a conscious of Cyberton and the existential horror of watching and seeing your entire Legacy Devolve into violence and division)

We get family bonding of Ratchet, Sam and Wheeljack,

Sunstreakers natural abilities to one up bumblebee in every way and steal his man. Sideswipe is a wingman by force.

And Sam and Sunstreaker learning and caring about each other cause I get to make the dynamic.

(Sunbound and the author on ao3 and fanfic really made me intrigued with Sam and Sunstreaker potential)

#transformers bayverse #transformers into the cyberverse #Sam Witwicky #Sunstreaker #Ratchet #sideswipe #bumblebee

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junk-jester · 4 months

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Transformers: Ashen Wings Information Page

For those curious, unaware or just stumbling randomly, welcome. For a good bit now, I've been thinking about writing my own Transformers AU, where I use the figures I collect as the main way to tell its story.

Having been inspired by this post I found completely at random, I'm now going to compile everything I've written down in one place for future ease of reference.

This'll be a long post, too, so I'm putting all this info under a read more cut so anyone who doesn't want to scroll for an hour or so can go right on by.

[Section 1: List of Characters]

The cast of Ashen Wings is split up into four primary factions; Autobots, Decepticons and Terrorcons.

The Autobots are comprised of: -Earthrise/Kingdom Optimus Prime -Legacy Evolution Commander Armada Optimus Prime -Legacy Override -Earthspark Twitch -Legacy Wreck N' Rule Impactor & Spindle -Legacy Bulkhead -Studio Series ROTB Bumblebee -Legacy Arcee -Legacy Evolution Animated Prowl -ROTB Beast Alliance Targetmaster Rhinox -Studio Series ROTB Cheetor -Studio Series ROTB Airazor -Legacy Evolution Nova Prime -Legacy Evolution Junkion Scraphook -Legacy Evolution Junkion Crashbar -Legacy Evolution Junkion TrashMaster -and Legacy United Windblade

The Decepticons are made up of: -Studio Series Gamer Edition WFC Megatron -Studio Series BBM Megatron -Legacy Evolution Tarn -Legacy Evolution Skyquake -Legacy KnockOut -Legacy Armada Starscream -Kingdom Waspinator -Generations FOC Shockwave -Prime RiD Soundwave -ROTB Beast Alliance Targetmaster Skullcruncher -Legacy United Rock Lord Magneous -and Legacy Jhiaxus

And the Terrorcons are made up of: -Studio Series ROTB Scourge -Studio Series ROTB Battletrap -Studio Series ROTB Nightbird -Studio Series ROTB Freezer -Kingdom Paleotrex -Kingdom Ractonite -Kingdom Wingfinger -and Cybertron Sideways

[Section 2: General Worldbuilding]

-In the ancient past, Cybertron was a rather tribal society, where they worshipped two deities; Prima, Goddess of Light, Day, Order and Life, and Unicron, God of Darkness, Night, Chaos and Death. -Ancient Cybertronians believed the two gods, brother and sister, where locked in an endless war, their planet caught in the middle as the two tumbled around each other in the sky above, each and every sunrise and sunset signaling Prima's small victories and defeats in conjunction with her brother. -One day, this balance was interrupted when the Ancient Cybertronians witnessed their first Solar Eclipse, where the planet's twin moons blotted out the sun. Fearing for Prima's safety, they created a series of super weapons known as The 13 to destroy the moons and bring Prima's light back. -The plan worked and the twin moons were destroyed, but at the cost that Cybertron was tidally locked. As one half froze and the other burned, the Ancient Cybertronians pleaded to their Goddess for help. -Prima seemingly obliged, and The 13 would transform before the people's optics, becoming immensely powerful warriors now known as The 13 Primes. The 13 Primes would then undo the damage, making the planet spin once more, before 12 of their members suddenly vanishing without a trace. -The last Prime left behind, Alpha Trion, sought to grant wisdom to his kin and created The Legacy of The Primes, a contingency plan that sought to pass his powers onto future generations of bots so that his wisdom should never leave their side. -In the modern day, the line has continued unquestioned, with Nova Prime-- a well-respected and publicly adored hero figure-- being the latest to carry Alpha Trion's mantle. -However, as the generations have passed, Alpha Trion's wisdom has been increasingly forgotten or omitted and those that bare the Prime title have not sought to teach his ways to their kin, resulting in the formation of the Functionist Council, which seeks to limit and control Cybertronian society by prescribing roles and jobs to bots based on their natural Alternate Modes. Fast cars become racers adored by the public, Jets are enrolled in Air Force Academies to defend Cybertron from alien threats, Tanks are forced down into Cybertron's underbellies, mining for resources in hazardous environments so that the politicians can build golden cities higher and higher.

[Section 3: Important Plot Points]

The story begins as you all may know it, with the Great War on Cybertron.

-Standard Aligned Continuity depiction of Pre-War Cybertron, with a Miner named D-16 (later rebranded "Megatron" by his admirers) fighting for the equal rights of all Cybertronians from the Gladiatorial Pits of Kaon. -Megatron allies with Orion Pax, a librarian at the Iacon Hall of Records, and Ratbat, a Political Senator working on the Functionist High Council. -The three meet, but while Ratbat speaks of violent revolution, Megatron and Orion want more peaceful means to reform the system, preventing the incitement of chaos. -Ratbat, left vindicated by the duo's refusal, bombs and assassinates the Council, gives himself fake injuries, plants evidence and blames Megatron for the attack. -Megatron is shortly arrested, but he knows Ratbat is the real mastermind. His rage swells and he causes a mass riot, rallying other prisoners (such as Soundwave and Starscream) to his cause and escaping, saying that if Ratbat wanted a true violent revolution, then that's exactly what he was going to get. -Ratbat is soon murdered by this group of prison rioters, dubbed Decepticons by a news media outlet, but the chaos wouldn't end with him and the Decepticons would keep attacking everything in sight, despite Megatron's orders to stand down. -As chaos consumed Cybertron and the remnants of the Functionist Military were unable to hold them back, Orion was approached by the ailing Nova Prime, who had sensed his time was coming to an end and a new successor was to be chosen. Naming him Optimus Prime, Nova would pass along the Matrix of Light-- Alpha Trion's dormant Weapon Form-- and everything he knew or had ever been taught. Optimus, with this renewed sense of purpose, would confront Megatron alone. -Megatron was prepared to fight Optimus, calling him a betrayer to everything they stood for, but Optimus corrected him, telling Megatron that he had lost sight of their goals, and if he wanted to truly make things right, he should truly consider long and hard what should be done next now. Megatron, heeding Optimus words, would fly off into space to begin a long process of soul searching among the stars. -Back on Cybertron, without their leader, the Decepticons were left in disarray and most were re-arrested as Optimus sought to get things under control. -Those remaining Decepticons who avoided imprisonment would make a bot named Tarn-- who Megatron considered to be an adopted son-- be their new leader in Megatron's absence. Tarn tried to lead the Decepticons, but found too much pressure on his shoulders, causing him to leave their ranks and flee into space as well. This would land Tarn on Earth, who hid out on the tropical islands of Hawaii. -Shockwave and Jhiaxus, two bots who had been arrested by the Functionist Council for pursuing careers in science instead of the military as ace fliers, would then end up hiring a team of skilled Bounty Hunters-- the Terrorcons-- to retrieve Tarn. In turn, Optimus would send a small team of his own-- the Autobots-- to do the same, led by his own adopted daughter figure, a famous champion racer named Override. -Upon getting to Earth, the two factions would scuffle a bit as they searched for Tarn. Quickly realizing that his team is outnumbered, Scourge, leader of the Terrorcons, would have his allies dig up some dinosaur skeletons and flood them with a nanotech virus, creating the Fossilizers Paleotrex, Ractonite and Wingfinger, as well as their combined mode, Gravesite. -Eventually, the Autobots would find Tarn first and escort him back to Cybertron. The Terrorcons, enraged at losing a major payday, would reveal their true colors as cultists who worship Unicron and were mutated or enhanced by his dark powers, hence why they could revive the dead. They would then begin to take over Cybertron, using more of Unicron's powers to brutally injure Optimus and create a false clone of Megatron, weaving a conspiracy that Megatron had actually been dead this whole time, murdered in cold blood by the cruel and unfeeling Optimus.

Tarn, Override and their remaining Decepticons and Autobots would work together to form a resistance against Scourge and the Terrorcon-controlled Cybertron, but no progress in taking back the planet could be made up until the real Megatron would return from his soul searching.

During his time in space, Megatron would happen upon The Chemical Lenses, the dormant Weapon Form of Alchemist Prime, a master of manipulation over matter and energy, able to transform any one element into another.

However, the Chemical Lenses were infected by Space Barnacles, and in his attempts to clean them off, Megatron himself was infected. Alchemist's ghost, noticing Megatron's plight, saved them both from Space Barnacles. Megatron apologized for his failure, but Alchemist denied the apology, saying he did what he could and that's what matters.

Alchemist would then bestow upon Megatron a special power, but without telling him how to use it, saying only Prima herself could show him, and only when the time was right.

With this new unknown power in hand, Megatron would return to Cybertron, only to see what the Terrorcons had done to the planet. Enraged by their chaos and discord, Megatron would singlehandedly carve a path of death through the Terrorcon ranks, killing his clone, Nightbird and Battletrap before then moving on to Scourge himself.

Scourge was saved at the last minute by Sideways, but not before Megatron had unleashed the power granted to him by Alchemist Prime. Antimatter leaked from his eyes like tears as he reduced Gravesite to atoms and dust.

With the Terrorcons fleeing and scattered, Megatron would then use his power to repair and upgrade Optimus, giving him a Super Mode.

Optimus and Megatron would then work together to rebuild what the Terrorcons had destroyed and unite Cybertron under one banner. Should the Terrorcons ever return, they'd be ready.

[Section 4: Side Stories]

Beyond what the main plot tells, various side stories also take place at various points in the timeline.

During Tarn's stay on Earth, he would witness the battles between Override's Autobots and Scourge's Terrorcons from afar, where it would quickly become apparent that he had fallen in love with her.

Tarn would initially be terrified of this fact, but after being taken back to Cybertron and leading the rebellion against the Terrorcons with her, his love would be actualized, and he would ask her to be his Conjunx Endura by the time of the real Megatron's return.

Before the onset of the Great War, Starscream was a prominent Military General working for the Functionist Council, but was court marshalled and imprisoned when he refused to fire on civilians. When Megatron escaped and the Decepticon Riots ensued, Starscream was at the forefront of the chaos, guiding fellow Seekers in bombing several buildings. However, his longtime Conjunx Endura, Windblade, had been inside one by mere chance and was injured by debris. Windblade would break up with Starscream and swear revenge for his seeming betrayal, causing them both to grow cold and distant, though they would cross swords several times at several points in time. Windblade would eventually find peace after the Terrorcons occupation of Cybertron was removed by training with Prowl in the art of Metallikato, but Starscream hasn't had similar luck. He now roams the galaxy as a vagabond, trying to find any possible way he could apologize to his lost love.

At some point in time, Tarn is visited by the ghost of his future self, taking the form of a Samurai named Bludgeon. Bludgeon tells Tarn that he hails from an alternate future where Megatron fails and is slain by Scourge, and he has become haunted by the action, unable to pass on. Bludgeon demands Tarn not make the same mistakes he did, to prevent that future from taking place, and Tarn agrees, though without clear instruction. Regardless, Bludgeon vanishes into the afterlife, leaving his sword and skull mask behind. Tarn has since begun taking up both, training day in and day out, waiting patiently for Scourge and Sideways' inevitable return.

[Final Section: Misc. Details & Fun Facts]

-Megatron's Antimatter powers gifted to him by Alchemist Prime mix the jagged spines of WFC Dark Energon with the clouds of energy emitting from his eyes of their IDW depiction, making them extremely dangerous and unpredictable.

-Early drafts of the story had Tarn and Override be Megatron and Optimus' biological kids, but it was changed so they're adopted instead so that the timeline makes more sense.

-There is no Ashen Wings version of the DJD or Damus/Glitch. Tarn has always just been Tarn and, likewise, was never corrupted from being Optimus' friend into a worshipper of Megatron. --There was plans initially for an Ashen Wings version of the DJD, but they would've had different code names and group title, but without Hasbro making any Legacy figures of them, they can't be included.

-The plot of there being a conspiracy regarding Megatron's death and the creation of a clone wasn't the initial plan, but things sort of evolved this way when I wanted Studio Series Bumblebee Movie Concept Art Megatron, but had to justify its existence in conjunction with Studio Series Gamer Edition Megatron when I had just gotten that before BBM Megs was announced. --The same line of thinking also applies to Earthrise Optimus and Legacy Armada Optimus, but instead of a clone, I relegated the LA figure to being an upgrade.

In conclusion, that should be everything of note about Ashen Wings. If anyone has any more questions, I'm happy to answer. This AU's plot is also always updating as I expand my collection, so this post will no doubt be updated in time.

For now, however, this is where I'll leave everything off.

#transformers au #maccadam #transformers fan continuity #transformers ashen wings #long post #word vomit #too many characters to tag

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quetzalpapalotl · 2 years

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TF ask: something in TF fic you want to see/haven't seen but no one has written yet (for MegOP and for TF in general)

I'm so sorry, bestie, I did not realize you ahd sent this

Okay so, what I'm really craving right now, most of anything is IDW rodibee, any IDW rodibee. I already talked about their relationship here an dI just want something to explore their relationship how they are natural rivals who complement each other. If it's shippy then that's great because the "i want what you have and for that I hate you and want your approval" is very up my alley, but if it's platonic and more sibling-like that's also great. I just want something with my boys. There's so much potential there. I'm gonna have to end up doing it myself.

As for megop, I'd like to see a post Dark Cybertron AU where they don't let Optimus put Megatron on the Lost Light because is not his ship, so Megatron has to stay locked up until the knights are found. And so when Optimus is brooding about how hard peace is to maintain and how he has never been sure of any of his choices he goes to talk to Megatron because he's gay and also has no one else to talk to. And while I don't think this situation is great for Megatron's character development because he really did need a place to chill and learn to value life again, there could be some self recognition through the other with Optimus trying to break the cycle while being part o the cycle and all that.

And Megatron would fit perfectly among the later events where people face Cybertron's history of colonization because, you know, he's kind of the Prime Example. So while he chews Optimus out he gets to also confront that, because for as much as he hates the title, Pax Cybertronia is the Legacy of Primes and Megatron got closer to it than anyone else.

#megatron realizes he's also part of the cycle and has a crisis and doesn't talk to op for like a week #obvs megatron can escape whenever he wants and he's gonna do it the most dramatic moment possible #quetzal rambles tf

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ijusthavesomanyblorbos · 2 years

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So many questions on how shattered glass sentinel prime would be. On one hand, some media portray him as a good guy, but dead. But in the other hand, I like the interpretations where he’s a jerk or fully evil. I just really like arty hobbitses interpretation of sentinel as this narcissist who mentored Optimus and saw him as a perfect son.

Would he even be alive in your interpretation?

Does he have a legacy of being a patriotic savior who’s actually a slaver/mass killer?

Okay so here's what I'm thinking.

The structure of prewar Cybertron would be kinda similar to the American government, as in they have the Senate and the Prime.

The Prime is SUPPOSED to be chosen by the matrix, but in reality, the Senate has been choosing Primes for as long as they've been in power.

Cause, the Prime is about the only person who can call them out on their BS, and they don't want that.

So, by controlling the Prime, not only do they give themselves complete executive power, but they also gain the social backing of what is basically divine right. So, if you want to be Prime, you either need to be very cowardly, or very stupid. Or both

Sentinel Prime, however, is neither. He's plenty cunning, and he's not afraid of doing whatever it takes to achieve his goals. As a highborn noble, he's been groomed since birth to become Prime. He knows exactly what the Senate wants to see, and he has no problem showing it to them.

Beneath the Primely surface however, he isn't too keen on the figurehead nature of his position, so he starts to sow the seeds of dissent against the Senate. Perhaps by funding a certain anti-functionalist rebel group? (Not to say that he plans on supporting them long term. They're far too egalitarian for his tastes. But, once the Senate has been... eliminated, what better way to assure the populous of his supreme power than annihilating a dangerous terrorist organization? It's a win two fold!) All anonymously, of course. Like I said, he's smart. He covers his tracks well.

But not well enough.

And when the Senate catches wind of his plan to usurp them, well.

He's been Prime for quite long enough.

So they kill him. Plain and simple. And wouldn't you know it, there just so happens to be an easily manipulated, wided eyed traditionalist sat on the right hand side of the Deception's leader. Destabilizing rebel forces, as well as eliminating traitors? (More on that plot here)

....It's a win two fold.

I don't think Sentinel would ever have a chance to one on one interact with Optimus, since he goes from middle class enforcer to Decepticon leader pretty fast. But, Optimus is definitely enamored with him. Major hero worship. It's one of the main points of contension between him and Megatron, who can see the Primacy for the absolutist autocracy that it is. I love love love that evil dad headcanon of him, but I just don't think I could fit it in with the circumstances of the AU already.

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naiad-dream-way · 2 years

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So I promise myself this year I would write more things that I like and put things out there. You know, writing for yourself

soooooooo, was always a fan of @pastelpaperplanes and the whole Crusade and Cybertron's Legacy au so cute and interesting. Crusade is such a cutie and I always felt that they needed to have a friend growing up...and that made me think of my favorite TFA couple and well...

Since Lugnut died and every Decepticon warlord, even future ones needs to have a loyal 'lieutenant' soooooooo yeah that is how Telum came about.

So tah dah *nervous chuckle*

------------

He was only a youngling, but there were two big things that Telum knew to be a loyal, proud Decepticon warrior.

Number one! Everything for the Cause!

Telum grew up, watching most of his family going off to fight against the evil Autobots while he was left behind at New Kaon. A warship, after all, was no place for sparklings and younglings to be running under pede. They would only cause distractions and be a hindrance aboard. That wasn't something loyal Decepticon soldiers needed to deal with.

At least, that is how Carrier said whenever Telum asked to come with her. She always used big and hard words. He had to ask Clobber what Carrier said afterward.

His creators were important members of the High Command and needed to be where they could be the most useful. He didn't quite understand, but Telum knew that Carrier was smart. She led the army into battle and would always come back with tales of victory to share when she could. His sire was part of Lord Megatron's crew which met he was very important too.

Telum didn't know why but he knew that Sire would say how much an honor it was to be of use to Lord Megatron and that everything he did was for the glory of their leader and the Cause.

They were too important to the Cause to take care of him.

Even his big sister, Alpha Strike, was far too busy going off to fight to stay behind.

The only one in their familial unit who could watch over Telum was his other sister, Clobber. But that was until Telum got his adult upgrade forms. He knew that he would be big enough one cycle to be a real Decepticon warrior. It was only going to take a long time, and he hated waiting for that cycle to happen.

The second most important thing that Telum knew was that Lord Megatron was the Cause.

He never met the Decepticon leader, but Telum knew he was the most important being in the whole universe.

The Decepticon leader was above Carrier, Sire, above everyone. If Telum had to fight Autobots, he was doing for 'The glorious name of Lord Megatron and Decepticon cause' as Sire put it.

He was supposed to die for Lord Megatron, for the Cause.

It was an honor to fall in battle in the Decepticon leader's name.

It was how any loyal warrior would want to go, and Telum was more than ready for it.

Telum told everyone how he couldn't wait to fight in a real battle and that he would take down so many Autobots or die trying.

Carrier nodded her helm and seemed to be pleased with the answer.

Sire declared he was destined to be one of Lord Megatron's greatest warriors and knew Telum to live up to the duty.

Alpha Strike laughed and hit him in the back of the helm. Said he would need to upgrade a bunch more to join her in the field. But then Alpha said with a smile that she couldn't wait to fight by his side.

Clobber let out a big laugh with a smile and gave Telum a spine-crushing hug. She even told him he could have an extra energon goodie with that's night refueling.

Those were the two major things Telum grew up knowing, and they were the only truth he knew for a long time.

They were proven true when the Autobots had captured Lord Megatron, Sire and the rest of High Command. Telum didn't understand what happened but Clobber said that Sire was in a big battle on an organic planet with those in Command. In the end, it didn't go well for Lord Megatron and Sire. The evil Autobots had captured them and would keep them away forever.

Then they had escaped.

That Sire gave his spark to keep Lord Megatron from getting caught again.

Again, proof of what Telum knew.

A loyal Decepticon gave everything to the Cause and Lord Megatron.

It made Telum feel icky to think about it too much. He hated to feel so sad about it. He should have been proud of Sire, that he served Lord Megatron to the very end. It's what any true Decepticon would do.

But it sucked to know that he wouldn't see Sire again. To never hear his loud booming voice, to be held and tossed into the air, to tell Sire how much he loved him. It made Telum sad and wished that Sire didn't have to die.

But Telum wouldn't tell anyone that. Carrier would be disappointed in him, that he dared to say such things. Sire had died for the Cause, and there was no nobler way to pass on. Telum shouldn't taint Sire's death with such thoughts.

But it was hard as he watched Carrier move on, trying to hide her feelings. She would keep herself busy with work and rarely stay around home, even more so. Lord Megatron needed her more than they did. He needed to keep a hold of his leadership, and his remaining devoted soldiers had to step up to help him. That's what Carrier did.

Alpha was even rougher and snapped a lot at him and Clobber. Mostly at Clobber. He could hear Clobber sobbing behind her bedroom door and then Alpha screaming at her to shut up. They would fight behind that door a lot, but he could hear it. It was the only time they would talk to one another. Outside that room, they would barely acknowledge one another.

This period of Telum's life had suck.

He never felt so alone.

So, he kept busy with his lessons, training and soon enough, the pain of the loss became numb. Cycles went on, and life continued onwards like normal. Alpha and Clobber would start to talk to each other again. Cons wouldn't bring up Sire's death as often and give their congrats on having such a noble creator.

It was all normal.

Until Carrier decided it was time for him to go.

Telum didn't understand it at all. She came one cycle, and he ordered to pack up everything he owned and say his goodbyes. The whole event happened quickly and became a blur. Telum grabbed anything, and everything he could fit into his subspace and the case Clobber had given him. She kissed him on the forehelm and a hug before Carrier took to dragging him out of their home and out of New Kaon.

Soon enough, Telum found himself aboard one of the command warship of the Decepticons' armada. The Nemesis.

If that were everything, he would have been thrill enough.

But no, there was more.

Lord Megatron was in front of him!

Never had Telum thought he would meet his lord now. He always believed it would have happened one cycle. Maybe when he got his final upgrades and branded? But now?! Why now? Why did Carrier bring him here? Did he do something wrong and going to be punished?

Telum found himself frozen in fear and worries. Not how a real Decepticon warrior should act.

"Really Strika? This is just foolish."

"No, you're the idiot who is acting like an overprotective Seeker," snapped Carrier back.

Her harsh tone drew Telum out of his thoughts. His Carrier talked to Lord Megatron like that?! Like he was an ordinary Decepticon soldier? But he was Megatron! A mech they were supposed to obey, no questions asked. How could Carrier treat him like anything else but the supreme ruler he was?

And why was Lord Megatron letting her?

"How I raise my sparkling is no one business but-"

"And the fact your little bitlet had to go make 'friends' with a scraplet is a clear sign that the heir of the Decepticon Empire needs more interaction with other-"

Telum started to tune out the arguing at the word 'heir' popped up. Heir? Lord Megatron had an heir? He never knew that. It would have been the talk of New Kaon if their beloved lord had one, right? Did he miss the news or something?

Telum found his attention shifting to a small, dark shadow at a tiny bit of movement. Red optics poked out from behind Lord Megatron's leg before disappearing again. Moving a bit, Telum adjusted himself to get a better look at whatever was behind his lord, only for Carrier to slap the top of his helm. Rubbing where she hit, he looked up and could see the irritation in her optics. Glupping back some air, he quickly took to stand up straighter and more at attention.

"Telum! Mind your surroundings."

"Yes, ma'am!" he chirped.

"Strika, its isn't that serious of a matter," sighed Megatron, shaking his head. "But you're correct in this issue, I suppose. Time for a playdate would do some good-"

"I'm afraid you have misunderstood my proposition, Megatron," said Carrier, stepping forward and using the very hand to strike Telum earlier to push him alongside with her. "Telum will be remaining on board, staying in my and Lugnut's quarters."

"Excuse me?"

"He's old enough to continue his training without being too much of a burden aboard the Nemesis. If your creation can remain onboard, Telum will be fine as well."

What...

Telum could feel his jaw drop as he looked up in shock at Carrier, and it seems Lord Megatron was equally in surprise. He was going to stay here?! On the Nemesis!? It was a dream come true! It was the one thing Telum wanted in his short life more than anything. He would serve the Decepticon Empire right in the front line. Telum attempted to keep his excitement at bay weakly as he bit back the broad grin.

If only Lord Megatron would share in that feeling.

"Strika, you can't make such a decision without consulting me, or anyone," said Lord Megatron, looking at all not pleased with this development. "It's one thing to have my creation on aboard as I'm here. You barely find time to come aboard the Nemesis unless it's a war council meeting and alike. How can you-"

Carrier didn't allow him to finish as she reached over and jabbed her servo into Lord Megatron's chest. "My job is to ensure the continuing survival of the Decepticon Empire. I will not allow Crusade's lack the social skills and common sense to bring about our end. If interaction with Telum prevents future failures, then it will happen. You know that my intentions are only for our betterment, Lord Megatron. For now and for tomorrow. Do not argue with me on this."

The final words Carrier spoke implied something more. Telum's glee gave way to a bit of worry as he knew that tone of voice. It was a 'do not question me' tone of voice he had heard many times over his life. Telum had learned not to fight Carrier when she used that tone, same with everyone else in their family unit. It appears Lord Megatron knew the same as he sighed, shoulders slump in defeat at Strika's logic.

"It seems I can't change your processor on this," sighed the warlord. The weary look he wore gave way to a small smile as he turned to whatever was behind him. "Crusade, come out and meet our guest."

Telum's optics widen at the sight of the youngling coming out from behind Lord Megatron's legs. They were so small! Even though Telum was larger than most other younglings in New Kaon, he knew that a warframe youngling this small wasn't normal. Telum had to bite back his glossa to say where the rest of them were. The biggest part of the youngling had to be the oversized finials. Like they were twice the size of their helm, Telum had to wonder how the other youngling could stay on their pedes under the weight of those finials.

The train of thought derailed as Telum felt Carrier's hand on his shoulder. Looking up, he could see the mere seriousness in her optics of what was happening here.

"Telum, met Crusade, Lord Megatron's creation and successor to the Decepticon Empire."

Whatever was talked about next, Telum didn't give it much attention. His entire focus was on the youngling in front of him. Telum was taught that the warlord was above everything all of his time online. That's right! Megatron was the one that would get them back to their proper home on Cybertron, after all.

...So, if Crusade was Lord Megatron's, then they had to be just as important! Maybe more so!

Cause the Decepticons were nothing without their lord! So his creation had to be held in the same high regard.

"All hail Crusade and the Decepticon empire! Down with the Autobot oppression!"

Telum blurted out the first thing that came to him as he dropped down to his knees in front of everyone, bowing deep to Lord Megatron and his creation. He didn't even notice the warlord's worn tired look with Carrier as the other youngling looked on in confusion at Telum's actions.

"...Strika..."

"He's Lugnut's creation; would you expect anything less?"

#cybertron’s legacy au #maccadam #transformers #transformers animated #tfa #oc transformers #tfa strika #tfa lugnut #tfa alpha strike #tfa clobber #tfa megatron

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pastelpaperplanes · 2 years

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humanformers headshots ✨

have the Megop family and big bad Uncle Zarak

#my art #humanformers #cybertron’s legacy au #Megs and Op you only get more handsome w age AHGHRRG #Crusade looking DARLING and ofc I had to give them some edgy earrings. the emo phase still lingers so I see lmao #uncle Zarak doesn’t look to bad for a half dead guy…what big teeth you have sir 😳😳😳#megazarak #crusade #transformers animated #maccadam #tfa megop #tfa optimus prime #tfa megatron

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brelbot · 2 years

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Always a Carrier

I love @pastelpaperplanes and her Cybertron’s Legacy AU. Crusade has been living in my head rent-free for several months.

I also love sickfics.

Please enjoy me thoroughly ruining Crusade’s day...

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“PRECISION IS KEY. FOCUS. STEP. TURN. NOT FAST ENOUGH! DUNEFRAME! WHAT THE FRAG ARE YOU DOING?!”

Starting the solar cycle doing drills with Strika was not exactly the best start to an already tiresome morning, but as usual, Crusade rolled with the punches.

In truth, they needed this distraction.

Crusade had woken up feeling… off. They had gone on patrol with a small group of Cons on a nearby planetoid yesterday and while normally their Carrier was not overly fond of Crusade going on these little scouting missions he had acquiesced if for no other reason than the Decepticon forces were stretched a little thin this orbital cycle.

That choice had been a mistake. The little planetoid was covered in a fine layer of dust and soot. Quite likely it had been part of a larger planet with an active magma core. It also had its own gravitational pull, but it was weak. Just enough to keep the dust on the surface of the planetoid… until it was distrubed by peds and promptly began floating and following the team as they moved.

The entire team was coughing and dislodging the dust and debris from the planet surface for several hours after leaving the accursed place. Crusade swore it took them twice as long as the rest of the team. They were even still coughing by the time their evening refuel came around. Somewhat embarrassed that they were still causing such a scene, Crusade decided to take their evening refuel alone in their quarters.

Crusade didn’t expect their Carrier to come looking for them when they didn’t make an appearance in the commissary, but they still couldn’t stop from sighing just a little when he didn’t even comm them. Megatron was very, very busy right now. The Decepticon forces were strained right at the moment, and Team Charr was currently working on a high stakes prison break. Most of the lord’s attention had been on that prison break for the past decacycle, though Crusade knew it would be successful.

“CRUSADE!” Strika’s shrieking nearly startled Crusade off their peds. “Will you be joining us in these drills or do you intend to let your distracted processor get you offlined?”

“Y-yes ma’am!” They stuttered as they quickly picked up their sparring baton and moved their body into position.

Strika snapped her digits and one of the younger recruits, a mech having just joined the Decepticons came forward.

“Had you been listening, youngling, you would know that Freedive will be your sparring partner today.”

Crusade smirked. What they lacked in bulkiness they made up for in their swift and clever movements. While Freedive’s frame was slim like theirs, Crusade knew they would have no problem putting the older mech to shame. They nodded, and when Strika signaled for them to begin they lunged-

And promptly missed. Freedive was fast, and in one fluid movement had moved away from Crusade’s thrusted sparring baton and jabbed his own into their chest plates. Crusade fell back with a grunt, but used the momentum to roll back onto their peds. They narrowly avoided two quick swings and finally got a hit on Freedive’s shoulder strut.

However, the older con used that same momentum to yank the baton Crusade held so tightly to and whipped both Crusade and the baton around him before finally letting go so that they flew across a section of the room and slammed into the opposite wall.

It was a hard blow and left Crusade dazed as they slumped against the wall and began coughing more of that accursed planetoid dust from their vents.

The sound of the Deception heir hitting the wall and then beginning to cough broke the focus of many of the cons and they turned to watch them.

Crusade could feel their optics on them and couldn’t help but feel their face plates warm in embarrassment. To add insult to injury they kept coughing until Strika walked over to assess any damage. A few of the other recruits snickered.

Freedive, the cocky little fragger than he clearly was, smirked when she walked over.

“I thought you put me with him because he was going to be a challenge”.

“It’s them,” Crusade corrected, but Freedive just shrugged.

Strika dismissed Freedive with a wave of her hand before grabbing Crusade’s hand and pulling them to their peds.

“You damaged?”

“No,” Crusade coughed. “‘M fine. Lets go again”, but Strika narrowed her optics.

“Go see Hook. Have him determine why you’re coughing like that”.

“Dust from yesterday’s patrol. I’m fine. I want a rematch”.

But one glare from Strika silenced their protests. She took the discarded baton from them and pointed towards the exit. Crusade knew better than to push her.

“See ya later, princess,” Freedive called from the group. There were a few titters of laughter before Strika began yelling at them all to get back to sparring.

Crusade’s finials twitched in irritation as they stomped down the hallway. They were fine. They just needed to get the rest of that dust from their vents. They made a detour to the commissary for a cube of energon before entering the wash racks. Another cleansing would no doubt do the trick, but Crusade found as they were washing up that the prospect of actually drinking the energon they brought with them was less than appealing. In fact, it almost made their tanks roll in nausea. They were probably just still too hyped from the sparring to feel like refueling.

However, even after drying and returning to their quarters the energon was looking even less appetizing. They would save it for dinner.

On a whim, they made their way to the throne room. When the doors opened the room was bustling with other cons. Many were looking over screens, a few typing on a datapads and at least a half dozen trying to corner Megatron. Crusade thought that Carrier looked tired, but he was still barking commands and grabbing data pads from the others. Starscream stood to his right looking increasingly bored. However, when he spotted Crusade he offered them a smile.

Crusade liked Starscream. They probably shouldn’t have, but Starscream was always very kind to them, as if his dislike for their Carrier equated to the fondness he had for his youngling.

“Hello youngling,” the seeker greeted.

Crusade smiled, but tried to look over Starscream’s shoulder to see their Carrier. Starscream astutely followed their optics.

“It’s been like this all cycle,” the seeker explained. “But let me see what I can do”.

Crusade smiled as Starscream butted his way between the other cons and Megatron. There was a brief exchange between them before Megatron looked over to Crusade. He gave them a soft smile and a nod of his helm before yet another Decepticon rushed over and pulled his attention away.

Starscream frowned, wings fluttering in irritation.

“I’m sorry, little one”. He apologized when he returned to Crusade’s side. “Give us another few hours and come back. The prison break is supposed to take place next solar cycle and there have been… complications”.

Crusade nodded in understanding, but couldn’t help look at their Carrier one last time before they exited.

Crusade didn’t return to the throne room. Feeling sleepy, they ended up retiring to their quarters and promptly fell into recharge. When they next woke they were shocked to see their chronometer showed they’d been asleep for well over four hours. Hopefully that meant they were finally finished purging all that dust from their vents.

Megatron wasn’t in the commissary that evening and when Crusade spotted Freedive and several others sitting at a table they decided they didn’t want to be there either.

If Crusade was honest with themselves… They didn’t feel very well. Maybe they should have taken Strika’s advice and gone to Hook for a checkup. But, it was getting late and it was likely the old medic had already retired for the night. They would swing by in the morning.

However, in the wee hours of the morning Crusade onlined suddenly, scrambled out of their berth and purged what little was left in their tanks onto the floor. Crusade hadn’t purged since they were a sparkling and the humiliation of it nearly brought them to tears.

Servos shaking, Crusade quickly used the towels from their personal wash racks to clean up the mess before throwing them into the incinerator shoot to hide the evidence. Still shivering, they activate the comm link in their finial to call Carrier… and then stopped.

Carrier was so busy right now, and stressed. They’d seen how tired he looked just this morning, and waking him in the middle of the night for such a stupid little incident would certainly anger him. Crusade was practically an adult, even if their scruff bar said otherwise. Plus, they were the heir to the Decepticons. They couldn’t show this kind of weakness to Megatron, even if he was their Carrier. No. This would resolve itself by morning.

… Which would have come a lot sooner if Crusade hadn’t spent the rest of the night huddled in a blanket next to the disposal as their tanks were determined to get every drop of energon they’d ever ingested in their life cycle out of their body.

Crusade was miserable. They’d been on ice planets that were warmer than their wash racks, and they still shivered under the blankets. What was worse, it felt like the dust from that stupid planatoid had quadruplied in their vents. They coughed until they felt sure that part of their venting system had probably broken or cracked.

They drifted in and out of stasis for a bit, helm propped against the disposal, coughing occasionally, when they realized there was an unread message flashing on their HUD.

It was from Carrier.

/Meet me in the command center for your morning refuel./

The thought alone of ingesting energon had Crusade dry heaving over the disposal again.

/Be there soon./

Crusade rushed through a shower, smeared some wax over their chestplate and shoulders, and unsteadily made their way towards the command center.

If they thought their own room was cold, the halls of the stronghold were positively frigid. Crusade briefly wondered if there had been some malfunction with the compound’s heating system, but none of the other cons they passed seemed to notice the inhospitable temperatures so they chose not to bring it up. Refueling was completely out of the question, so Crusade went straight to the command center.

Much like the throne room yesterday, the command center was packed with other Decepticons. Megatron stood at one of the larger consoles, intently watching a screen and holding a cube of energon in the servo that wasn’t scrolling through a data pad.

Starscream was off to the side inspecting his talons with disinterest, but when he caught sight of Crusade his optics narrowed as he looked up and down their frame.

“Where is your breakfast, youngling?”

“I was running late. I’ll get it after we’re done here.”

Starscream was the undisputed champion of lying, so it came as no surprise when he clearly saw through Crusade. They were surprised though when Starscream didn’t immediately call them out for it, but the look on his faceplates spoke volumes.

“Indeed. Perhaps then once we are done here you should join our leader in his chambers. There is plenty of energon in there, I should know I have to fetch it for him. His berth is also large and warm, a good place for a stasis nap for anyone who has not been recharging”.

Slag. Starscream knew.

“Oh, well, I have a lot I need to get done today, so we’ll, uh, see…” Crusade carefully stepped around the seeker, but his ruby red optics never left the young Decepticon.

Megatron, however, was nowhere near as observant this morning. As soon as he saw Crusade he beckoned them over.

“This prison break will be happening within the hour. This will be the first of many, and you will be assisting in planning future ones”.

It was rare for Megatron to delegate the more serious matters to Crusade and they would have been elated if it didn’t feel as if a mini-con was trying to drill it’s way into their helm. They simply nodded and stood at attention just behind Megatron.

It was hard for Crusade to follow what was happening on screen between their churning tanks, pounding helm, and how stuffy the room had suddenly become. Crusade’s optics were just threatening to close when the screen suddenly burst into action.

Team Charr, minus Strika, were leading an all-out attack on the small Autobot outpost. Their shots were precise, the Autobots seemed more or less defenseless and the whole thing was going just as planned.

At first.

The video feed trained on Cyclonus followed him as he ripped open the door of one of the cells to reveal it was empty. Everyone in the command center suddenly quieted until the sound of blaster fire crackled over the screen. A fresh and well armed group of Autobots rounded the corner of the cells firing at the team.

The room exploded into a noisy frenzy. The Autobots had been tipped off. Megatron grabbed one of the datapads and began shouting orders. The others in the room ran towards their respective consoles and began organizing support to assist the overrun team.

Crusade was horrified to see this major operation their Carrier had been working tirelessly on about to crumble before their optics. But at the same time, it allowed them to leave the room unnoticed… which was fortunate as their tanks lurched sickeningly and they were forced to stop in the hallway and dry heave until the spell passed. The heaving led to more coughing and by the time Crusade was able to vent normally again their legs shook so badly it was a wonder they were still upright.

Crusade knew they needed to go see Hook, the sooner the better. Carrier would undoubtedly be furious, no matter the outcome of the prison break, and the last thing Crusade wanted was to get in his way while they were feeling so poorly. They didn’t think they’d be able to take a lecture right now.

However, their berth room was so much closer. A quick recharge. That was all. One tiny recharge and then they would go. It was a long walk anyway, and they currently felt too shaky, as if they wouldn’t make it to the medbay right now.

That quick recharge became several hours of recharging. In fact, the only reason Crusade woke at all was because their comm was pinging.

Slag. It was Carrier.

“Starscream informs me you were acting peculiar this morning”.

“Uh, well, I mean we all were. That was pretty intense. Did we win?”

“Had you remained in the command center you would have seen the outcome for yourself”.

The Tone™. The prison break had failed, and worst of all, Carrier’s tone implied that their absence was well noted.

Crusade wracked their static-filled processor trying to think of an excuse. Apparently, though, they were taking too long. Megatron continued.

“Next time I instruct you to join my side I expect you to remain there until I have dismissed you”.

Crusade’s tanks dropped in a way that was not related to the illness at all.

“Yes, sir. I understand, sir.”

“We will continue this conversation later”. The comm link clicked off.

It was one thing to feel ill. It was another thing entirely to feel ill and then be reprimanded by the Lord of the Decepticons and Carrier all at once. Crusade was ashamed when they felt their optics threaten to fill with tears.

There was no way they could go to Hook right now. With Carrier as angry as he was, the whole compound would be bustling with cons trying to fix the situation. If they crossed paths with anyone who was in the command center this morning they would certainly start asking them questions. They would wait.

Their attempt to drink a few sips of energon ended with a half hour of crouching, heaving and coughing over the disposal as they began to feel a horrible heat build in their frame. A shower in their private wash racks seemed to only make it worse, the water felt like tiny stinging icicles that left them crawling under the berth covers and shivering.

Crusade drifted in and out of recharge, but strange images danced in their processor. Carrier was there, and then he wasn’t, then he returned, but in an odd shade of blue and white. A conga line walked through their room, followed by a few very small Autobots. One of the Autobots challenged them to an arm wrestle, but it remained unclear who won.

This continued for a few days, possibly weeks if Crusade was any judge of time, but the bots stopped dancing in their berth room when their comm pinged again. Their chronometer insisted they’d only been offline for a few hours rather than the weeks Crusade felt certain had passed.

It was Starscream.

“Your carrier is looking for you. He’d like you to join him in the throne room”.

No, no, no. Carrier could NOT see them like this! If Crusade showed up like this they’d embarrass themselves and Megatron.

“I can’t. I mean-! I can, but I’m actually working on something right now. Can’t really step away. It’s… important. Would you tell him for me?”

“Your ability to lie is atrocious. Try again”.

Figures.

“Look I’m just… I’m doing something right now and he probably doesn’t really need me to stand there next to him while he yells at bots so just tell him I’m busy”.

Starscream didn’t immediately respond. “I can tell your Carrier you are preoccupied, but if he requests your presence as Lord Megatron you will be attending.”

He paused.

“I also encourage you to share whatever is on your processor with him”.

Crusade responded before they could stop themselves.

“He’s too busy to deal with that.”

“Carriers are never too busy for their younglings, Crusade. I urge you to speak with him.”

Crusade felt their optics threatening to well up again.

“I will.”

“Good”. Starscream shut off the comm.

Easy enough for Starscream to say, Crusade thought. He probably didn’t have any younglings so what did he know?!

Crusade was just beginning to huddle down back into their blankets when their HUD pinged with another message. It was from Carrier. Apparently Starscream’s message did not go over well.

/Throne room. Now./

Crusade gulped, but that only started another painful coughing fit. By the time the fit stopped Crusade’s vision was plagued with static and the room swam in front of them. On trembling peds they made their way out of their berth room and into the hall. They had to brace their servo against the wall to keep from falling. They were too hot and too cold and the throne room seemed well over a lightyear away.

Crusade took a moment to compose themselves before standing up straight and entering the throne room. It was empty save for a few cons and Megatron in his seat. Even Starscream was not present.

Crusade approached cautiously trying not to sway as they walked. Megatron looked up from his datapad when he heard them approach.

“You’ve been avoiding me,” He began without preamble.

Crusade felt their tanks roll at the tone. Normally when Megatron scolded them it wasn’t a big deal. They knew they were not the most obedient of younglings all things considered, and being scolded was part of the deal, but today Megatron’s tone made them want to climb under a service panel and stay there.

“I… didn’t mean to,” they tried, though their voice cut into static just a bit.

Megatron paused and looked over them slowly, optics focused.

“What are you hiding?”

“N-nothing, sir.” Crusade couldn’t meet his optics, but the floor was twirling beneath their peds. “I’ve just been--” their voice crackled and triggered a deep coughing fit before they stumbled.

“Crusade!”

Crusade finally lost their balance and nearly cracked their head on the floor, but a strong and large servo cushioned the fall.

Long-suppressed submissive sparkling protocols took over as soon as they could feel their Carrier’s EM field around them. Crusade’s finials shifted back low against their helm and they curled up against Megatron’s chest plate. They didn’t care if they were laying on the floor and Megatron was next to them on his knees, the warmth of his chest plates suddenly became the most soothing sensation Crusade had ever known. They shut their optics tight.

A servo pressed against their forehead, and then cheek.

“You’re burning up”. Had Carrier ever sounded this gentle? “When were you going to tell me?”

“Wasn’t gonna…” Crusade mumbled, pressing their face further into Megatron’s chest.

Crusade felt more than heard Megatron sigh. They were expecting him to pull away and start lecturing, but instead-

“Strikeslide, cancel the meeting”.

Crusade was lifted up as Megatron stood and got to his peds.

“I will reschedule when I see fit”.

Crusade heard the Decepticon acquiesce, but then they were being carried out of the throne room and down the hall. They never looked up from where they had planted their face into Carrier’s chest, but they could hear other cons quickly scurrying out of Megatron’s way as he walked.

Crusade knew as soon as they’d stepped into Megatron’s quarters. They recognized the scent of his waxes and the sparse, but comfortable furniture. It had been a while since they’d been in here and the smells were nostalgic and comforting. They shivered against Megatron’s frame. Soon enough they were being lowered into Megatron’s berth. As much as they wanted to stay curled into his frame, the berth was comfortable.

When Megatron pulled back from laying Crusade down they could barely comprehend the look on their Carrier’s face. Megatron was frowning, but not angrily, he was sad and his optics were so very soft as he looked them over.

“Have you been refueling?” he asked softly.

Crusade shook their head. “Can’t keep it down”.

Megatron once again placed his servo on Crusade’s forehead, and they found themselves leaning into the touch. Megatron must have noticed, because he didn’t pull his servo away.

“How long have you been overheating?”

They shrugged. “Dunno… After the prison break I guess”.

Megatron sighed again, pulled his servo away, and began adjusting the sheets on the berth. He carefully began swadling them.

“And the coughing? When did that start?”

“After the little planet I patrolled on. Thought it was just the particles and stuff”.

Megatron hummed in thought. “Some must have attached to your vents and corroded. Hook will be able to run a diagnostic”.

Crusade closed their optics again, but they could hear Megatron moving around the room. When he approached again a cloth with coolant smeared on it was placed on their forehead.

“This should relieve some of the discomfort until Hook can deliver something to bring your temperature down”. Crusade could feel the berth dip a bit as Megatron sat next to them.

Crusade startled when they felt Carrier set a gentle servo on their back struts and began rubbing.

“And you had no intention of telling me?”

Carrier’s voice was so soft and so sullen, Crusade found themselves opening their optics again.

“You were busy… with Team Chaar. And it wasn’t a big deal.”

“Crusade,” Megatron began as he leaned down so they were face to face. “Just because I am busy doesn’t mean you become of any less importance. My spark nearly stopped when I saw you fall. If something were to have happened to you…” Megatron didn’t finish.

“My point is, I will always be your Carrier, no matter what else I am. I want you as happy and as safe as I can make you. Don’t ever be afraid to share something with me”.

Crusade bit their bottom lip and used the back of their hand to wipe at their traterious tears.

“I love you Carrier”.

Megatron actually smiled at them. “And I love you. Don’t make me repeat myself, bitlet”. He playfully tweaked one of Crusade’s finials.

Crusade laughed softly, doing their best to suppress the coughing that threatened to follow.

“Could you… Would you possibly… uhm....”

“Could I do what?”

***

Hook let himself into the Lord’s chambers when there was no answer to his soft knocking. He was concerned at first, Megatron had insisted he come as quickly as possible with his diagnostic kit and a few vials of coolant, but he was nowhere to be seen.

“My lord?”

When he didn’t get a response he carefully opened the door to the berth room… and was woefully unprepared for what he saw.

Crusade was swaddled in three blankets, curled up on their side, but with their head tucked into Megatron’s neck. Megatron himself was also on his side, one arm wrapped around Crusade and the blankets, holding them protectively to his chest, his chin resting atop Crusade’s helm and a lighter blanket draped over his own frame. Both were deeply asleep.

Hook most certainly did not snap a picture, nor did he adjust the blankets more comfortably around the recharging pair. He would wait for one of them to awaken on their own, but for the time being it seemed as if each were receiving the medicine they truly needed.

#pastelpaperplanes #Cybertron's legacy AU #Crusade #megatron #transformers animated #Brel's writing

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