One In A Billion | Transformers Prime [1]

𝟎𝟎𝟔

As the day wore on, I sought the solitude of my thoughts. I was still at base, so maintaining a non-threatening demeanor was crucial. My mind focused solely on the task at hand; plotting, calculating, and strategizing beneath my mellow facade.

Observing the Autobots closely, I was able to identify some of their vulnerabilities. Though mighty, they were not invincible. To defeat them, I needed to exploit their weaknesses. However, it wasn't enough to strike blindly. I had to be patient, waiting for the perfect moment to act. My organization had spent years gathering intelligence on the Autobots, and I wouldn't squander that knowledge with impulsive actions.

In the communal area, I overheard discussions about the Autobots and their recent heroic feats. My blood boiled with frustration, but I masked it well. Mastering the art of deception taught me to bide my time before making my next move.

Within reach were Jack, Miko, and Raf, playing video games and doing their own thing. For a second, I itched for normalcy. They were regular human beings, and I was just...well, I didn't know what I was. An unstable person with magic powers carrying a bad reputation for being a spy, not to mention rich and lonely. It's no surprise that my yearning was to be nothing short of normal. But with the abilities I've been granted, and the country I had sworn to defend, I couldn't afford to let my guard down, not over some languishing quagmire. 

"Snap out of it," I mentally chastised. "This is no time to feel sorry about yourself." 

I took a deep breath, focusing my attention back on the mission, back to identifying the drawbacks of each Autobot but was hindered in my task, overhearing a sudden debate.

"I understand that Ember is capable and self-reliant. However, the threat of the Decepticons is ever-present. Having a guardian by her side will ensure her safety," Optimus spoke. I bolt up from my seat, features hardening at the mere mention of guardianship. "But she seems to be fully capable on her own. Maybe she doesn't need a guardian," Bulkhead said, concerned.

Ratchet nodded. "True, but she's young, and her emotions may affect her judgment in the field. Having someone with experience by her side is wise." Bumblebee beeps in agreement, and Arcee added a nod of approval. "Yeah. Just because she supposedly took down a few Cons in their holoforms doesn't mean she can take them down in their true forms," 

Pfft. If she meant those clan members raiding the store earlier that night, I could take them out with my eyes closed. Little did anyone know I was just as competent in taking down robots as I was taking down my own race.

"I could accompany her! I'm young and agile like she is," Smokescreen offered, optimistically. Optimus sincerely countered, putting a hand—servo as Wheeljack called it—on Smokescreen's shoulder plating. "Smokescreen, you have your own duties, and you are still learning. We need someone who can protect Ember effectively,"

I tensed at the word 'protection.' The notion infuriated me the more they dwelled on it. They needed to know that I wasn't one to be underestimated or pitied. Optimus, who was silent, darted his optics around the room, preferably searching for something. "Wheeljack, what are your thoughts?" 

Wheeljack, who was stunned for a second, regained his marbles and then crossed his arms, scoffing. "A guardian? Me? You've got to be kidding, Optimus. I'm not exactly the nurturing type."

Finally, having enough of that conversation, I stand up, unnoticed by the Autobots, and step closer to the group. "I don't need or want anyone watching over me. I can handle myself just fine,"

Optimus turned to me while maintaining a calm demeanor. "Ember, we understand your capabilities, but even the strongest warriors need support. We merely want to ensure your safety." I cross my arms, refusing to back down. Clearly, I was disinterested.