Dusk and Dawn.... Book 1

who are you?

As Optimus Prime headed toward the exact location were supposeably one of Megatron's companion was, he couldn't shake off the feeling that something was wrong.

Normally, he wouldn't get such a feeling- because he would bury such feeling deep within himself- it was quite odd it would rise above its usual place in his spark. Never the less, he was the leader of the Autobots. Swiftly following him was Ironhide; the old warrior alnost seemed to melt into the scorching black road. Optimus pulled off the road, and changed into his primitive form as a sentinel being approached; a few sparks shot out as he transformed. Ironhide readied his cannons.

"Prepare to die!" Growled he. Prime signalled to stand down. As his blue optics quickly traced the slender being before him; he asked, his voice calm and unwavering

"Who are you, friend or foe?" The sentinel being stared at him with weathered green optics.

"I am not friend. I am not foe." He said "I have come to challenge your might against mine; a one-on-one. If you are true to Primus, our creator, and your cause is just, then I will join you."

Ironhide grumbled "Such noble words... who are you?" The being withdrew a greatsword from his back; riddled with cuts and rust, the blade glowed a dull, light blue. Optimus drew his sword; clean of cuts, the treasured blade glowed a prideful, bold orange. The nameless being struck first, it's swing graceful but cautious. Optimus easily parred the blow, but before he could get in a deadly counter move; faster then lightning, the being brought up it's blade. Clash! Their blades locked tight. He grunted as Prime kicked him aside, but quickly got to his feet.

"What strength!  You are so young, yet your technique, your skill, is that of an elder!" Gasped he. Not holding back, the young one launched himself at the leader of the Autobots, but Prime was prepared. Once again, blade locked against blade, but neither gaining the upper hand.

However, the sentinel being withdrew it's sword, he faceplate turned into a soft smile. Optimus sheathed his sword.

" It seems I have much to learn." He said, automatically kneeling "You have the spark of Primus; I'll gladly join you." His soft smile swiftly turned to an all out grin, but it faded away.

He continued "My name is Artorias. What is your name sir?"

Optimus answered "My name is Optimus Prime, and my friend over there, is Ironhide."

"Well met Optimus, Well met Ironhide." Said Artorias.