When All Lights Go Out II (TFP)

Chapter 16

Three days later…

When the polarity gauntlet had been brought to the base, Ratchet made sure to reserve any lasting effects it might have on both Bulkhead and Arcee at the time. It was an easy fix, which was a good thing, since Ratchet had Bulkhead go with Bumblebee to harvest the energon that had been found. While at the same time he had informed them of what happened with Optimus and Bumblebee. Arcee was the most vocal about Megatron coming to the base, especially as she was really worried about what Megatron might do. Though both Ratchet and Optimus did believe Megatron would not do anything to Optimus or Azura, but that didn’t stop Arcee from voicing her opinion about it.

It was an understandable reaction. Even June voiced her concerns too, especially with the children being present. Nonetheless, they all knew what would happen when the time did come for Optimus’s labor. They may not like it, but it was for Azura. And that was truly the driving force behind the decision Optimus had made, even if there was a big risk. But Optimus doubted Megatron would do anything aside from what he said he would do.

As for Azura, when she had been told that Megatron would be present during her rebirth, she was excited, nervous and anxious about it at the same time. She had not expected Megatron to want that, but it made her also feel hopeful, especially as Optimus did mention to her that Megatron would likely continue the war, despite the fact that they all hope that he might change his mind. And Azura was definitely holding onto that hope.

As for Mech’s activity, the autobots informed Agent Fowler of the information Megatron had given them as they felt he might be able to help. While the man did assure them he would do his best, he didn’t want to make any promises, since none of them actually knew what Mech planned on doing. But the human and autobots would keep a close eye on anything that might indicate Mech activity. It wasn’t going to be easy, but they have every intention on making sure that Optimus and Azura would be fine.

Optimus, though as much as he didn’t like it, had resided to remain in the base, no matter how safe it was. He knew it might be a bit over the top, but everyone was on high alert. They knew that Mech were watching closely and preparing for their next move. Every signal they picked up now meant that the autobots arrive many miles from the exact coordinates and proceed with extreme caution. They haven’t picked up much since finding thr small mine at least, so that was a good thing.

Optimus was currently in the lobby sipping from a cube just thinking deeply about some things. He was pacing a little as he found that to be more comfortable than just standing or sitting, and it made him able to think a little clearer. The humans were present at the moment, including June, as the woman had brought food for the children to share. She had been watching Optimus curiously while the kids were invested in their video game.

June walked around on the platform to get a bit closer to Optimus. He did not notice as he was focused in sipping the cube and pacing at the same time. He didn’t pace all the time, but he had only started it just a couple days ago. “I must admit, watching you has reminded me a lot when I was pregnant with Jack.” Optimus looked at the woman and smiled as the woman spoke gently. “By the end of my pregnancy, I was ready for it to be finished.”

Optimus hummed softly and shrugged. “At least I know I have someone to relate to. Even with a human. Though your pregnancies are a lot shorter than our carrying.”

“Yeah, Ratchet told me that.” June leaned on the railing with a smile. “Though with what happened a few days ago, everyone has been on edge since. I can’t blame you for not being able to relax and be comfortable.”

“I suppose no one can really. I just know that it is nearing the end, and I don’t usually feel concerned about something like this, but…I guess with Azura inside me, and she is unable to protect herself, it does make me feel a little on edge.” June chuckled a little as she completely understood. Optimus intakes heavily and looked at June. “I am curious how you went through your pregnancy. At least…the end of it.”