[Robots and Magic] New Memories, Old Enemies ✓

18. 𝘞𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘺

[ Trigger warning: Lots of fights, deep injuries, betrayals and whatnot  ]

Upon arrival at the location of their adversaries' concealment, the atmosphere was fraught with tension as the Autobots and their human companions took in the sight. The dilapidated building stood in ominous silence, barely holding itself together, its fractured windows casting sharp shadows against the lunar ground, permeated by the scent of damp concrete and aged oil. The girls disembarked from the vehicles, while their guardians seamlessly transitioned from their alternate modes to their towering robotic forms with the sound of shifting metal piercing the quiet night.

Bumblebee took a step forward, scanning the area before speaking, "We're here." he confirmed with caution as he surveyed the warehouse, taking note of the various entry points and possible ambush spots, "Listen up, we'll divide into two groups and approach from different angles. If anything seems off, refrain from engaging alone. Contact the rest of us immediately. Got it?"

The team nodded, their expressions grave. The lieutenant continued with unwavering resolve, "Optimus, Arcee and I will take the front entrance. Bulkhead, Smokescreen, Knock Out and Sideswipe, you'll cover the rear."

Bulkhead cracked his servos, rolling his shoulders in preparation, "We'll sweep the back and make sure no one slips past us."

Grasping the jewelry around her neck, Sunset took a deep breath before allowing the familiar sensation of transformation to wash over her. The energy surged through her body, metal plates locking into place as her organic form gave way to her Cybertronian one. She straightened to her full height and glanced at her friends, "Let's do this."

With that, the two teams assumed formation, vanishing into the shadows as they advanced to the building from opposite directions.

Inside another section of the construction, Steeljaw prowled toward his pack. He stopped at the center of the group, surveying the gathered Decepticons, "We need this final reactor for the completion of the bridge." he announced, "And we will procure it through thievery. Each of you must maintain the utmost vigilance, I will not tolerate any mistakes."

Some members nodded, others simply watched him with wary expressions. Despite their loyalty, a sense of growing unease permeated them, a sentiment that Steeljaw could discern but chose not to acknowledge. His grip on them was slipping but he wasn't about to let that show. As his gaze swept over them, he noticed a conspicuous absence and inquired, "Where is Fracture?"

"Dunno, haven't seen him in a while." Underbite shrugged.

A low growl rumbled from the wolfcon's but after a tense second, his look changed from irritation to indifference, "Forget him. We don't have time to wait. If he wants to go off on his own, that's his problem. We move out tonight." he turned his back on them, dismissing them with a wave of his claw, "Now get out of my sight."

Fretfully, Quillfire and Underbite headed outside, their heavy pedes resonating through the cavernous warehouse. However, while the others departed, one member chose to remain. Thunderhoof stood in place, arms crossed over his chest-plate, staring at the pack leader, "Ya look pissed." he remarked with a touch of amusement.

Steeljaw's ears flicked back as he turned to face him fully, "What are you still doing here? I told you to leave!"

The antlered mech didn't budge, "Ya act like you've got it all figured out, always barking orders, thinkin' ya know best. But take a look around! Your pack's fallin' apart and yer too blind to see it."