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duck-writer · 4 years

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Borrowed Time’s Up Ch.3

You can read Ch.1 Here and Ch.2 Here

Story Summary:

Einherjar : (pronounced "in-HAIR-e-yar"; singular einherji, pronounced "in-HAIR-yee") are great heroes who have died with bravery on Earth; soldiers in Odin's eternal army; they train in Valhalla for Ragnarök, when the bravest of them will join Odin against Loki and the giants in the battle at the end of the world.

While Huey's busy with a Junior Woodchuck's thing and Louie paired off with Webby for an Urban scheme adventure, Dewey and Scrooge head towards the Underworld for an adventure of their own. They drag Donald along and he did his best to stay on the plane...because he knew that if he stepped foot inside, it was a one way trip.

But he's Donald Duck, and he can't ignore the cry of help from his kid.

~~~~

“You should still be in bed,” Mrs. Beakley told Webby.

The young duckling jumped a bit, one of the few moments of rarity when she was so lost in thought, she wasn’t aware of all her surroundings. She immediately felt bad for letting down her training. “Sorry, granny...”

Mrs. Beakley looked at her granddaughter up and down and noticed the cup of tea in her hand. She wouldn’t blame Webby for being out of usual habits. It was a tough and strange time at McDuck Manor. So she offered her a gentle smile. “I’ll let it slide this time. But I will remind you that a proper night’s sleep is crucial for your growth, Webby.”

Webby tried to smile back but it fell almost instantly. Looking at Scrooge’s study door before her gaze went back to her grandmother, she asked, “Does he sleep?”

Mrs. Beakley took her time answering. As much as she wanted to shield her granddaughter of things, she’d promise to be more honest about serious matters. At the moment, she was witnessing a lot of realistic hardships happening to her friends and basically family. “Mostly when exhaustion eventually takes hold. It’s not healthy. But...given the situation, we can be forgiving.”

“We’re all trying to help. There’s a lot of books on the matter but without knowing specifics, it’s hard to help Uncle Donald.” Webby told her.

“I know. And I also know you children are doing a lot more than any mere child can.”

Webby frowned in the way her grandmother said that. The words were good, but the tone seemed to imply more.” Granny?”

Mrs. Beakley sighed and knelt to meet her granddaughter’s eyes, “The problem with almost always winning...is when you don’t.”

“I don’t understand...” Webby frowned a bit more.

“I know you will all do your best to fix this. Or to get him back. You’ve seen Scrooge and Donald and myself...and you kids have even done a lot of amazing things...”

“But?”

“But there are moments when...” Looking into Webby’s sweet innocent face made it very hard to tell her this important life lesson. She nearly caved and came up with something else, but she steeled herself and forced the words out. “There are moments, dear Webbigail, when life is just...not fair. Even to heroes.”

Webby didn’t like that lesson, but she couldn’t deny that it might be an important one to understand. Looking from the cup of tea she was holding back to Scrooge’s door, she said, “Am I doing enough to help them, Granny?”

Beakley smiled at her granddaughter, “Yes. In these times it can be so easy to fall apart. And there’s nothing wrong in it. They will need strength, for whatever comes, and you shall give them plenty. Why don’t I give this to Scrooge and you go set things out for breakfast. It’s the most important meal, and we must be stricter with everyone to make sure they remember.”

Webby saluted with new resolve, “Yes, Granny!”

~~~~~~~~

Huey was found by Webby and told that breakfast would be soon. As much his appetite hasn’t been what it used to be, he knew the importance of the first meal. He told Webby he was going to go look for his brothers to get them to come down for breakfast.

Since learning about Uncle Donald, he hadn’t seen his brothers as much as he used to. It’s been a whirlwind of emotions and time feels weird for him. Like it’s being dragged through molasses and yet it goes from morning to night in a blink.

He misses his uncle a lot. As sad as he got from time to time growing up and thinking his mother had passed away...he never met her. As they got older they didn’t ask about her as much, but whenever they did their Uncle Donald answered whatever questions they had about her. (Well, without specifics. Technicalities could be a stinger, but they held their merit)

Right now it feels like no one was speaking about their uncle. As if he were a taboo subject no one wanted jinxing them.

Looking in their room, he found Dewey passed out on the floor surrounded by books and notebooks.

Huey couldn’t help but smile sadly at him. Though part of him was jealous that Dewey had been there, had gotten a goodbye and a hug as well...he wouldn’t stay upset. Dewey was hurting as much as the rest of them.

Nudging his brother awake, he told him it was time to eat. “Dewey...come on, bro. Breakfast.”

“Unca Donal’?” Dewey muttered as he bolted up and tried to roused properly from sleep. When he noticed it wasn’t his uncle who woke him, but his brother, he looked down at his feet. “Oh....um, I’ll catch up.”

“Hey, no. Breakfast will be ready soon and we need fuel for the day. Come on, I’ll wait.” Huey told him.

“You don’t have to...”

“But I want to.”

Dewey looked up at the other, his eyes shining with unshed tears and full of sadness, “You’re just being nice to me...”

“Well, yeah. I’m your brother. Others are hurting too. But you and me...and Louie too, we were raised by Uncle Donald. Everyone else had families and lives outside of him but to us, he was our past life before all of this. No one gets my pain better than my brothers. I need you, so...I think you need me too.”

Dewey’s bill trembled before he hugged his brother tightly, “I miss him so much...”

“Me too.”

“Is Louie mad at me?”

Huey frowned deeply at that but he could guess why Dewey thought that. “No. He’s mad at the situation.”

“Feels like he’s mad at me.” Dewey muttered as he hugged Huey tighter. Huey returned the embrace and just held Dewey for a moment. Dewey quietly said, “There’s a lot of information, but little seems to head towards an answer. What if there isn’t one? What if we’ve lost him for good?”

“Hey, come on now. We’re Ducks! And we got Scrooge and everyone else on our side. We...we’ll get him back.” Huey told Dewey with as much conviction as he could muster. Even if he had moments of doubt since Dewey wasn’t wrong. They hit more dead ends than he’d like, but they couldn’t back down! They had to get him back!

~~~~~~~~~~

Scrooge was exhausted.

He hasn’t been this tired in such a long time.

Not since he was forced to accept the horrible thought that his darling Della had been lost.

It was so strange to think. With Della, there had been no body to bury. There hadn’t been a service either. He refused to believe she was dead...even after he had to stop looking for her.

With Donald...there had been a body.

And a grave.

Donald had dug it himself, buried his own body, and carried on as an Einherjar.

Scrooge wondered if Donald had some sort of service for himself. Probably not. All signs seemed to point that the only reason he cared for himself for a long time had been for the boys.

The boys...

Scrooge should really check on them to make sure they were okay. To give them hope and courage, and make them believe he’ll fix this.

Except...he was low on hope. And maybe low on courage as well since he fears if he makes promises they’ll sound empty.

A knock at the door brought him out of his thoughts. It was probably Beakley bringing him some food or trying to get him to rest. He blinked away any possible bit of sleep that he could before calling out, “Come in.”

It wasn’t Beakley, but Louie.

“Lad...” Scrooge was immediately out of his chair and heading towards the young duckling. He inspected the youngest triplet and took in as much as he could. Louie seemed alright physically, but the bloodshot eyes and bags under them probably rivaled his own. “Stupid question but...how are you?”

A few tears escaped Louie’s eyes and he roughly wiped them away. “I went to Storkules for help...”

That caught Scrooge’s interest. He was well aware that everyone was doing what they could to help. This was an interesting angle, but Scrooge already knew it would lead to another dead end, horrible pun unintended.

“He wouldn’t let me go. He’s still not back and I don’t know if I should take that as good news or if Storkules decided to just stay in the Underworld with Uncle Donald.”

Scrooge sighed and guided Louie to take a seat. “The land of the dead is...complex. There are...many. Storkules most likely went to the one we went to, but there’s high chance Donald won’t be there.”

Louie’s eyes widened, “What do you mean? Did you get him out? I mean, what other reason would Uncle Donald not be in the Underworld anymore?”

“Storkules is Greek. And yes, the Underworld we lost Donald to was the Greek version of the Underworld. Hades is far more reasonable than Zeus, more so in the winter months...but Donald most likely didn’t stay long in his domain, lad.”

“I...I don’t understand.”

“I haven’t figured out what happened yet, but your Uncle Donald became an Einherjar. That is someone who dies bravely. Heroically! But they are of Norse origin. Though there might have been an attempt of negotiation, I don’t think asking Storkules will...well, he’ll do his best and who knows what he’ll learn. But...I think this will be a bit more difficult, Louie.” Scrooge told him gently.

Louie’s bill quivered as he tried, and failed, to not cry. “Not having mom around was hard. But Uncle Donald went far and beyond for us...more than we knew apparently. I...I can’t...I don’t want to live a life without him! He’s supposed to be here! He’s supposed to teach us how to drive and how to shave! He’s supposed to help Huey with those insane college applications he’ll start filling out a year earlier than Dewey and me! He’s supposed to cheer Dewey on whenever he made it to whatever audition he gets to try out for! He’s supposed to be there for me! Forever!”

Scrooge pulls Louie into a protective embrace and lets him cry. He joins him because Louie’s points made him realize just how much he’s missed out and how much more he’ll miss now.

~~~~

“Hi.”

Della jumped up and held the picture of Donald and the boys protectively against her chest. When she saw it was just Launchpad, she slumped back into her seat. “Not the best time to be sneaking up on people.”

“I knocked,” Launchpad stated.

Della noticed that his usual upbeat aura that was always with him was gone. Blinking and shifting her focus back to the moment she nodded, “Right. Sorry. Guess...guess I was far off...”

“It’s cool. I get it.” Launchpad said gently. He pulled out a chocolate bar and offered it to her. “Donald would always have snacks. Sometimes healthier, but for the sad times it was always chocolate.”

She blinked away the tears and accepted the offering. “Thanks...”

“Do you mind the company? I get you may want to be alone, but...no one should be alone. I can be quiet. If you don’t wanna talk, I mean,” Launchpad offered.

The offer was so sweet, and she just felt like bursting out crying. But she was Della Duck! So she wanted to appear stronger than she was at the moment. Like many times on the moon when an attempt to get home failed or backfired. She had tried so hard though, and now that she was home...a lot of the fight and stubbornness she felt on the moon was gone. So her laugh quickly became a sob.

Launchpad hesitated a bit but then dared to hug her. When she latched on to him and cried harder, he rubbed her back and tried to offer as much comfort as possible.

“I miss him too.”

#Borrowed Time's Up #Fanfic #Ducktales 2017 #Scrooge McDuck #Mrs. Beakley #Webbigail Vanderquack #Huey Duck #Dewey Duck #Louie Duck #Launchpad McQuack

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rishabh-ghosh · 3 years

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The Apparition

News report. 15.5.2020.

According to the latest reports, the cyclone, 'Amphan' just entered West Bengal and is supposed to crash in Kolkata by 7pm tonight. The estimated speed of the cyclone is estimated of about 80 km per hour. If it doesn’t slows, then it will cause huge damage in the city. Citizens of the city are requested not to get out of there house during the storm and to stay away from electrical devices. We will now have a look on the damages caused by the cyclone in Odisha.

I switched off the T.V . Every channel was broadcasting the same news. About the cyclone. I left the drawing room and went to the kitchen. I took out a bottle of Scotch from the fridge. As it was an off day so I decided to relax. My plan was to drink as much I could and sleep till evening. But before, I have to make some arrangements in my flat so that my rooms don’t get overflowed from rain water like the last time. Oh those fuckers from those I bought this flat scammed me good. The flat is is full of flaws. The walls are damp, the sink was badly damaged and there were numerous electrical leaks. Although I have a shelter above my head. I am looking for a job currently. But I doubt an alcoholic and drug addict like me will get any job. I wish I had never left army . But the scenario couldn’t let me work there. After lunch, I drank 5 pegs of Scotch, as a result I was feeling very warm inside but as I am an alcoholic, I didn’t felt intoxicated that much. So I injected myself with morphine to get a good sleep. I just wanted to sleep till tomorrow. Now I can feel sleepy. Darkness was surrounding me and I was feeling the air around me heavier and…………

2 years ago. – Rajasthan, Indian Army Base. 1000 hours. 15.5.2018

“ Major Sanjay Ghosh, I just checked your achievements , it’s mind blowing. You joined Indian army via CDS in 2015. You were part of various Counter Insurgent operations. Then you voluntarily opted for Para regiment, and you didn’t flinched. Even your training officer told me that you are very tough physically and mentally.” I nodded my head and saluted him. He was Colonel Vipin Sinha. My Commanding officer. I replied, “ Sir, from my very first day in IMA, I wanted to be a para commando. And that’s why I trained myself to be as tough as possible.” He smiled and told me, “ Son, force needs brutal and intelligent officers like you only. You guys are tough as nail and are unbreakable. Just remember, never ever let your emotions work in battlefield. Dismiss.” I saluted him and went to the shooting range. I was just inspecting the skills of new recruits. Suddenly, a lieutenant came and told me , “ Sir, we need to go to the BSF camp, it is under attack.” I took 6 men whom I trusted most and gathered our weaponry and went to the camp. According to intel, there were 10 armed men. They were armed with machine guns. The BSF soldiers were pinned down. I asked a Captain named Laxman to be overwatch. He would coordinate us for enemies and provide sniper cover. It was less than 16 minutes we entered the place and almost all of them were killed. I killed 3 with my Insas rifle that day. When we were moving to the jeep, overwatch said via radio, “ Watch Tango 6oclock.” Which meant, that a target was behind us. I took out my pistol and turned around and killed that bastard. Bur the gun in his hand got misfired and the bullet hit Lieutenant Rajveer in the head.

Present day 6pm

That nightmare again! It spoiled my sleep. What? It’s only 6 pm. I better confront Salim. He gave a low quality drug. I tried to switch on the lights but I failed because there was no electricity at that moment. The storm was brewing up. I didn’t wanted to remain awake during the storm. Because storm brings that gruesome memory back. The reason I had to leave army and have to live rest of my life as a broken man is because of storm only.

2 years ago . Indian Army Base.Rajasthan 20.6.2018

Rajveer's death saddened the whole battalion. He was like a younger brother to me. He was very close to me and Shruti, my better half. I didn’t told Shruti about all these because she shouldn’t get any stress as it can be harmful for her and our baby.

Our C/O, Colonel Sinha instructed me that we got intel about many insurgents hiding in a village in Kuldhara. He added, “ The place is allegedly haunted as a result there are no inhabitants. The operation should be a clean job. No target should be alive. And one more thing, this time kill each target at once.” I understood what he meant. I started gathering best men for this night operation. An elderly Naik named Pawan Tripathi asked me, “ Sir , with due respect I am requesting you to not enter the place. I am local and that’s why I am warning, anyone who goes inside the village at night never comes out alone.” I along with nearly whole battalion laughed at him. I told him, “ If you are not interested in taking part in the operation, I won’t force you. But don’t worry about us.”

Around 7 o clock, with a team of 15 men, I entered the village. Our mission was to check every corner of the village and get back to our base by 10 o clock. I didn’t phoned Shruti because of this crucial mission.

Nearly after 2 hours of moving through the whole village, we finally found those bloody terrorists. They were about 20. All of them were all in a single room and were about to rape a local woman of about 27. The woman was asking for freedom. When they were about to do the heinous act, I ordered to shoot. All of us shot the bloody insurgents but sadly, the woman was also killed in crossfire. I threw a hand grenade inside the house and ran away from it with my sub ordinates. I instructed, “ It’s sad and a war crime as well. But it was done by mistake and moreover we were trying to save her only. But we didn’t had any intel regarding her. None of us will say a bit about the girl in the base.” While we were leaving the place in the jeep, suddenly storm brewed. It was not the weather for a storm a while ago. The driver in our vehicle lost his control and suddenly I saw a pair of red eyes in front of me and then I lost my conscious.

I woke up in the Indian Military Hospital, New Delhi. My C/O was sitting beside my bed and was smiling. I tried to sit but my Medical Officer , Major Vikram asked me to lay. Sir asked me, “ It’s been 10 days you were unconscious. All of your partners died. You were lucky that you got thrown out of the vehicle during the accident, because the car caught fire afterwards. Sad death for a band of brave warriors. But there is another bad news.” I asked , “ Yes sir?” He replied, “ Seasonal thunderstorm took place in Kolkata the same evening you faced your accident. Maybe your wife was near a conducting pole in your house. She and her unborn child died due to lightening strike.” I was shocked by the news and was about to say something , but stopped after I noticed a familiar figure behind C/O. It was the same woman but she wasn’t pretty as she was that night. Blood was coming out from her left eye, there were burning marks all over her body . I collapsed.

After a few days, I left army because of that apparition. I thought that it was my PTSD and guilt for unable to save the life and dignity of a woman being a soldier. After leaving army, I tried to commit suicide many a times but failed. As if someone was trying to stop me from committing suicide. Then I got involved into drugs and alcohol.

Present day

Every stormy night, they come and visit me. They don’t have particular face. Sometimes they look like poor old men, sometimes as voluptuous ladies , sometimes as animals like dogs, cats, rats and bats. They torture me and drains life from me. I wish I had listened to that Naik that day. Then I would have not been so broken and dying every stormy night. This night I tried toby pass by sleeping but I couldn’t. I can hear footsteps in my house. It was coming from near the bathroom. I screamed fear fully, “ Who is this? Leave me alone.” In response a familiar voice replied, “ Dear, won’t you see me again?” It was Shruti, my wife. I ran towards the bathroom and saw the thing which could break even the most bravest men. Shruti was there but she was not like before. Her eyes were swinging out of her eye sockets , her cheek bones were emerging out from her burnt face, blood was all over inside her mouth and there was a lump of red mass on her hand from which, a sound of a crying baby was coming. I tried to ran away from the house and suddenly I saw a bright light and a strange shakiness and pain inside me.

Next day, 7 pm , Lal Bazaar, Kolkata police , Detective department

“ Sir, the guy was definitely sick and became insane because of these drugs.” Sub Inspector Suryasis Mukherjee told this to Investigating officer ACP Abhay Roy. ACP replied, “ Are you sure? The man was a Para SF, those who don’t breakdown easily.” The Sub Inspector replied, “ But sir, these things like ' Swinging eyes, mutilated face, dead wife back to life, red mass crying like baby, are these logical? I am telling you what happened, the guy lost his wife during his time in Army, he might have lost his sense from then and started taking drugs. His love for his wife, the things he have seen during his Army days etc along with his drug addiction made him insane and he could see ghostly things. We found that there were leaks in the main lines. Floors of his room were flooded with water. Maybe he hallucinated all these and while running due to his fear, the main line was connected with the floor and the electricity came back then only. As a result, he died.” Abhay smiled and replied, “ What a coincidence, but there’s one thing which doesn’t makes sense.” Suryasis replied, “ What is it sir?” Abhay replied, “ The forensic reports came a while ago. I was reading it while you were there in the crime scene. Maybe because it is the case of a soldier, they did it faster. Sanjay’s fingerprint matches with that of the prints found on the pen found near the page where he wrote this whole senseless horror story. But that’s not the case. The case is , according to forensic tests, Sanjay died yesterday around 7 pm yesterday because of electrocution only. But the write up was written 11 hours ago, which means around 1 AM today. According to the investigation, he lived all alone in his house. My question is , if he was alone in his house then who had written all these , 6 hours after his death?

#my writing #horror #war crimes #military #psychological horror

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jordanicus-prime · 6 years

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A New Cybertron Chapter 2

A/N: This is going to be the last chapter that’s basically a re-write of the TFP series. I liked how TFP bid farewell to Earth, but I feel like we didn’t see everyone’s reactions, so I decided to shed some light on all the character’s thoughts and actions. Thank you for all the support with the first chapter, now get ready for some angst!

The ride back to the Autobot base was short yet silent. Everyone was overjoyed that Cybertron was alive again but no one could bear the thought of leaving Earth, of tearing their found family apart.

The silence remained as the Autobots began packing up the base. It was horrible, everyone had so much to say to one another and no one was saying it. Bumblebee couldn’t handle it anymore, he finally piped up. “I remember my first day on Earth. It was raining and I had no idea how to find the base. So I powered through the mud and mess, trying my best to avoid humans, and hunkered down in a cave for a few days. Finally, I think my signal powered through the clouds and Team Prime, more like Optimus, Ratchet, and Bulkhead at that time, found me.” He smiled at the memory. “I hated the rain so much for so long. But what I wouldn’t give to go outside and feel the rain again.”

From there conversation came naturally. Good memories, bad memories, funny memories, all of it, was remembered. As the final things were packed up, Optimus summed their time up on Earth perfectly. “We came to Earth expecting a continuation of war, hardship, and misery. We may have found war and hardship, but we come away with growth, friends, and family.” His eyes fell on the humans. All of the kids had tears in their eyes but were managing a bittersweet smile at the leader who had changed their lives. “Now it is time to not say goodbye, but until next time.”

Until this point Ratchet hadn’t said much, only commenting here and there, but now he finally spoke, “I’m staying on Earth.” He announced. Everyone turned to look at him in shock. Ratchet grinned at the looks on their face. “Yes, I’m sure I want to stay. Cybertron will always be home, but so is Earth now, and someone has to look after the children.” His grin became a smile at seeing Raf smile genuinely for the first time in several hours. Optimus nodded at his trusted friend’s decision and with that the remaining Autobots began saying their goodbyes.

Ultra Magnus was the first ready to leave. The humans had gathered in the center of the room, standing next to Ratchet. Magnus stopped in front of the group and looked at them. “I want to thank you, for your help and for giving me a family in a dire time.” He gave a rare smile. “The Decepticons were wrong to doubt you humans. You’re stronger than you let on. This planet has much to learn form you.” Agent Fowler gave a salute, which Ultra Magnus returned. He began to walk away before pausing. Magnus turned and knelt in front of Miko. “As leader of the Wreckers, I hereby declare you an official member of the Wreckers. I must inform you that nowadays, we don’t do much wrecking, but you’ve earned the title many times and I’m sure your guardian would agree with me.” Bulkhead nodded and Miko copied Fowler’s salute but this time with a massive, watery smile. She soon broke form and gave Magnus’ large pede a hug. With that, Ultra Magnus left through the Spacebridge, promising himself to come back soon.

Smokescreen was next to leave. He looked around the base one last time, taking in all the details he possible could. He approached the group he was leaving behind. Smokescreen inhaled, unsure of what to say, how to thank those in front of him. After a moment, he finally spoke. “Earth isn’t Cybertron, but hanging with you guys, has been one of the best things to happen to me. Make sure to save me a seat at Movie Night next week.” Smokescreen sent a wink at Miko who organized Movie Nights. He shook Ratchet’s hand, “Thanks for believing in me Doc.” Ratchet nodded in response. Finally, Smokescreen knelt down in front of Jack, “Thanks for everything teach, don’t get into too much trouble without me.” He put his hand up for a fist bump.

Jack put his fist up to Smokescreen’s. “What are you talking about? You're the one getting me in trouble. Take care Smokescreen.” Jack smiled at the young Autobot. Smokescreen walked through the Spacebridge but not before looking over his shoulder one more time, partly wishing he could stay.

Wheeljack planned to make his exit quickly, he wasn’t much for emotional goodbyes. He stopped in front of the humans and met each person’s eyes. “When I first got to this planet, I didn’t get the hype behind you humans. But, after spending time with you and seeing how despite the fact that you’re human, you can kick some tailpipe.” He looked to Agent Fowler, “I know we’ve had our differences but you did good for your planet.”

“Thank you for defending my planet.” Fowler responded. “I didn’t mind your mouthing off, just keep in mind I can always put you in your place.” He joked, causing Wheeljack to laugh.

On a last note, Wheeljack looked down to Miko, who had been crying since Wheeljack began to leave. “Hey kid, you’re one of the toughest, little wrecking balls the universe has ever seen and I know you’re gonna do me and Bulk proud.” He stopped there because he knew his voice would break if he kept going.

Miko sniffled, “You’d better come back and visit or I’ll come to Cybertron and haul your aft back here.”. She gave Wheeljack a fistbump before he turned to leave. “Like Bulkhead says ‘I always leave but I’ll always come back’” he thought to himself as he entered the vortex.

Bulkhead decided to follow his friend, having known the humans since the beginning, it felt wrong to him to be leaving and not taking them with the team. Bulkhead was never very good with words, but ever since there was a possibility of Cybertron being revived, he’d been trying to gather the right words. Bulkhead felt 5 pairs of eyes fall on him as he approached. “Uhhhh,” he began, suddenly losing the eloquent words he had spent hours putting together, so he decided to start with his farewell to June.

“June, I can’t tell you how great of a job you’ve done taking care of the kids. And I know she’d never admit it, but Miko and I have really appreciated you and how much you care about everyone here.” Bulkhead smiled, as June nodded with a quiet “Thank you”. Bulkhead turned his attention to Raf and Jack, “You guys may not have been my kids to look out for, but you two have always had my back. Raf, you little genius, this planet isn't ready for what you're gonna bring to the table. You’re so young and you're already smarter than I’ll ever be.” Bulkhead ruffled the 12-year-old’s hair. “And Jack, you’re a great kid, and this world is gonna be better off for it, thanks for taking care of this one.” he said pointing to Miko. Jack nodded in response, a small smile on his face, showing his fondness for the Wrecker. Bulkhead locked optics with Ratchet. “I know I always give you a hard time Ratch, but it’s because you need to relax a little bit. Hopefully, spending some quality time on Earth will help you out with that.” Bulkhead joked. “Thanks for everything, Ratchet, the Autobots would’ve fallen apart without you.”

Ratchet waved his hand dismissively at Bulkhead, “I will be able to finally relax with you and Wheeljack getting off this planet.” Ratchet joked. “But it’s been a pleasure serving with you, don't be a stranger.” Ratchet somberly smiled.

Next on Bulkhead’s list was Fowler, but the agent cut him off before he could say anything. “Look two-ton, I’m not one for sappy goodbyes. You may have made a bit of a mess by showing up, but you prevented many bigger ones.”

Bulkhead stuttered for a moment, “I was just doing my job Fowler, just like you were always doing yours.” He responded. Fowler extended his hand in a handshake. Bulkhead held up one of his massive fingers to the man’s hand and barely moved his hand. His smile fading, Bulkhead moved on to what he knew was going to be the hardest goodbye he would ever say.

Miko was doing her best to hold back her tears as her guardian, and best friend approached. They stood in silence for a moment before Miko lost her composure and embraced Bulkhead’s pede. Bulkhead placed a hand behind her back in the closest thing to a hug he could get. Finally, Miko spoke, “Thank you Bulkhead, you’ve protected me, supported me, and been the best friend a girl could ask for. As much as I hate to see you leave, I’m so happy you can finally go home, but you’d better come visit or I will personally drag you back myself.” Miko let our a weak laugh after that. “I love you Bulk.” she said, letting go of his pede.

“You too, Miko.” Bulkhead smiled sadly at Miko. “I never thought someone as small as you are could be as awesome or brave, you’re the best kid around and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for you, trust me, I’ll be around to see it myself.” Bulkhead wiped Miko’s tears as he stood. He walked through the Spacebridge with a heavy spark.

Bumblebee couldn’t prevent the inevitable any longer, it was time to leave the planet he considered home as much as Cybertron was. He traced his hand on the wall of the base and walked as slowly as he could to the humans. He paused in front of the humans, almost forgetting he had his voice back to bid the humans goodbye. He started with Fowler, “Thank you for being an amazing liaison and making sure we were safe on your planet.” Fowler gave a curt nod and a “Anytime, soldier.” Bumblebee looked to Jack and Miko, “You two are some of the bravest kids I’ve ever met and I know you guys are going to take great care of Raf while I’m on Cybertron. Stay cool.” He held his fist up to get a fist bump from both kids. Bumblebee turned to Ratchet. “Ratchet, you’ve saved so many lives since we’ve been on Earth. I can never thank you enough for always helping everyone and Raf.” The scout recalled one of the worst days of his existence.

Ratchet responds with a proud smile at the young mech. “You’ve always had a strength beyond your years, Bumblebee.” Bumblebee embraced Ratchet, which Ratchet returned, being a little less surprised this time. Ratchet nodded in farewell to Bumblebee, which he returned with a one-handed salute as he made his way to Raf.

Bumblebee could see that Raf was struggling to keep a neutral, much less a happy face. Bumblebee steeled himself, as he couldn’t picture his life without Raf by his side supporting him, talking to him, and just being his friend. Raf couldn't meet Bumblebee’s eyes, he kept his eyes locked on the floor and kicked at nothing, not knowing what to say. Bumblebee let out a small chuckle. “I don’t know what to say either, but with you I never had to.” Raf looked up at Bumbebee with tears brimming from his eyes. Bumblebee found it easy to forget how young Raf was, but right now it was glaringly obvious that Bumblebee was witnessing Raf lose his normal composure and revert to a kid, a kid who was trying to smile through his best friend leaving him. “Raf, I know I’m not going to be here anymore, but that doesn’t mean I won’t come back to visit you. And I’ll let you in on a secret, Cybertron was terraformed by our war, but given time and a clean-up effort you’ll be able to visit us on Cybertron within a year.” Raf was genuinely smiling now, and it was here that Bumblebee’s composure broke. “Raf, you are so young and you’ve been through so much. You’ve always risen above everything this war threw at you and if it weren't for you who knows what would’ve happened to us.” Bumblebee’s voice cracked as he continued, “Even in my moments of weakness and doubt, you’ve stood by me. You embraced me as family, even though I’m not from your world.” Bumblebee looked at Raf who was beaming through his tears at him. “Now I have the words to tell you thank you Raf- thank you so much.” Once the two had regained their composure, Bumblebee walked through the Groundbridge, excited to see Cybertron but wanting to turn around and run back to Earth.

Arcee being the first to meet the humans, decided that she would be the last to say goodbye. She strolled up to the humans, smiling but Jack could see that it was a false smile. Arcee sighed before she began her goodbyes, she didn’t know where to begin so she started with the youngest. “Hey Raf,” she started, the kid still looked a little distant after saying goodbye to Bumblebee. “You’re one of the brightest kids around, you’ve made us and Bee so proud, and don’t worry we’ll be back to see how far you go.” she placed a hand lightly on his shoulder and left it there as she turned to Miko, placing her other hand on the girl’s shoulder. “Miko, you scared the scrap out of us 100 times, and we told you to stop, but what we didn’t tell you was how brave you were. Never lose that rebel streak, the world needs more people who aren’t afraid to be themselves.” Both humans gave her a hug, which she reciprocated to the best of her ability.

The Darbys received Arcee’s attention next. June had her hands on Jack’s shoulders, both looked ready to cry. June spoke before Arcee could begin, “Arcee, I want to thank you for always protecting my son and being a good friend to him. And you’d better come back and visit, you’re a part of this family now.” June let out a watery laugh.

Arcee smiled at June, “You raised Jack well, I know I’m leaving him in good hands. Thank you June for being a well of support for us, we’ve always needed that.”, with that June stepped back, letting Jack and Arcee say their goodbyes in private.

Jack took in a shaky breath before he began, “I know I always complained about wanting a normal life and my girl problems starting when you showed up, but Arcee I am so glad to have met you. Yes, these past few years may have been hectic but they’ve been absolutely amazing, well you’re amazing!” Jack blinked rapidly to keep his composure. Arcee cut him off before he completely lost his composure.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better partner.” Arcee put simply. She stood to leave and before she did she turned over her shoulder “I’ll be back to visit.” She promised.

“Don’t make me hunt you down.” Jack joked. Arcee walked through the portal smiling.

Optimus had gone on a final walk through the base before leaving. His eyes swept the room before him and though the humans had never seen him cry, they could swear there were tear-stains on his face.

Optimus began his farewells with his oldest friend. “Ratchet, the end of this war has been a long time coming. You worked tirelessly for our cause and we are all grateful for a valued medic and friend.” Optimus grabbed Ratchet’s hand in a handshake. “This is not a goodbye but merely an until next time, old friend.”

“I couldn’t have said it better myself.” Ratchet let off a rare smile, letting go of Optimus’ hand. “And don’t be a stranger or I’ll march through that Spacebridge and bring you back myself.” Ratchet chuckled but he and Optimus knew he was being completely serious.

Optimus turned to the humans who had taught him more than he could ever teach them. They were different than they were when they first met his team, but they were stronger for it, they were a family, his family.

“Agent Fowler, your bravery in protecting your planet is to be commended. You handled threats in stride and were a most trusted ally. I wish you and your planet well.” Optimus commended the brave Agent.

“You really are something else Prime. You’ve saved my bacon more times than I can count, this planet still owes you everything it’s got.” Fowler smiled at the towering mech.

“Nurse Darby, your strength and knowledge has aided us in many crises, you have been able to take care of the children when we could not. And you have always been a beacon of support.” Optimus nodded towards June. At this point June had lost her composure and could only smile broadly through her tears.

Now, Optimus began a very difficult goodbye, saying goodbye to these children was like saying goodbye to his own. He could feel his Prime persona breakdown a little as he spoke to them.

“Back on Cybertron, I always dreamed of having a family of my own. When the war started that had to be pushed aside. I may not have gotten that, but I can say that I feel as if you children are my own. That being said, I want to know when your graduations are and big events that call for family to be there, because I will be.” Optimus had picked the children up in his hand and lifted them so they could speak face to face. “Rafael, you have a wisdom beyond your years and have dealt with responsibilities that no one, especially one as young as you, should ever face. Your ability to get to know others has uplifted us and we all value your friendship, especially Ratchet. Miko, your strength is awe-inspiring, your ability to push past any challenge and come through smiling has made many dark days a little brighter. You are a warrior inside and out, never give up the fight for what you think is right. Jack, you have grown much since meeting Team Prime, it has been my pleasure watching you grow. The world is your oyster Jack, know if you ever need anything, Team Prime will be there for you, all three of you.” Optimus paused to look at the children, there wasn’t a dry eye in sight. “It is with a heavy spark that I leave you here for Cybertron, but I will return. Until then, take care and good luck.” Jack, Miko, and Raf hugged Optimus’ hand as best they could. He placed them back on the ground with the first true smile he had worn since very early on in the war. Optimus walked to the Spacebridge and paused before sending one last glance over his shoulder.

“Thank you.... for everything.” Jack said, barely audible to the Autobot leader.

Optimus nodded in acknowledgment before stepping through the vortex.

On the other side, the rest of the team stood gawking at the ruins of Cybertron.

One story may have finished, but a new one was just beginning.

#tfp #A New Cybertron #Optimus Prime #Ratchet #Bulkhead #Bumblebee #Arcee #Wheeljack #Smokescreen #Ultra Magnus #Jack Darby #Miko Nakadai #raf esquivel #feedback is welcome!

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