Follow up to "Dreams": Part 1

[rosieknight]

Title: Desperate Times, Desperate Measures: Part 1
Author: RosieKnight
Characters: Ensemble
Pairing: Megatron/Optimus Prime, and others - too numerous to list
Rating: Let's start with PG-13 for now.
Universe: G1 with elements of IDW for Megatron's past.
Disclaimer: Not mine
Summary: An energy crisis forces the Decepticons to seek peace with the Autobots, but the treaty holds an unexpected clause. For the treaty to be valid, Megatron and Optimus Prime must marry.
Warning: Mech/Mech and Mech/Femme relationships. Cliffhanger, because it's the first section of a WIP.

Notes: Follow up to Dreams. Any ideas for titles will be appreciated and considered. Thank you, drharper!



Megatron sat alone in his darkened quarters of the Nemesis, replaying the memory file of his most recent communication with Shockwave. When had the situation deteriorated so much, and so quickly?

As much as he'd love to blame the Autobots, the energy crisis had loomed in the future for nearly his entire existence.

The war had merely accelerated matters, until both sides believed new, off-world sources of energy were required.

Pit, the original mission of the Ark was to search out new sources of energon!

Four million years ago, both sides had foolishly believed that the crisis point had arrived.

They were wrong.

The crisis point was now.

Megatron frowned, thoughtfully. He knew the actions he must take, but one variable out of place would shatter the Decepticon forces and doom more than just his men. The easiest way to deal with this variable was to confront it directly - no secrets this time - and force his troops to understand the choice he made.

And to do that, he needed to talk to Starscream.

Suiting deed to thought, Megatron stood and slid aside the door to his quarters.

Starscream was the Officer On Duty for the bridge, and - never missing a chance to lord over his subordinates - would be there.

Arriving on the bridge, Megatron spotted the Air Commander through the murky lighting of power-save mode. The other mech - for once not ranting about Megatron's supposed flaws - was listening to Soundwave's report on the status of the floating solar panels.

"Starscream," Megatron interrupted, "My ready room, now."

"As you command, Lord Megatron," the Seeker ground out.

Gesturing for the other mech to precede him, Megatron headed to and entered the ready room. "I received a message from Shockwave today," Megatron spoke quietly. "I want you to watch it."

The screen centered on Shockwave's single optic. "Lord Megatron," the image intoned. "I regret to inform you that this shall be my last communication. Neither I nor Cybertron have the energy to spare for another. The energy crisis on Cybertron has reached a critical point. Without additional supplies, every Decepticon remaining on Cybertron shall enter stasis lock from lack of energon in the next orn. Three orns after that, our sparks shall fade. And within a human "decade", Cybertron itself will die." The purple mech paused, "All possible energy sources and reductions have been exploited: Both moons are lifeless, the space-bridge is deactivated, and any engergon stockpiled by the Autobot femmes was consumed long ago." Again Shockwave paused, seemingly fighting to remain logical, "As always, Lord Megatron, I put our future in your hands. Shockwave... and Cybertron out."

A long moment stretched in silence as Starscream stared at the now blank screen, optics wide.

"Did he send anything else?" the seeker finally demanded, minute tremors running through his fingers.

Megatron ignored the sign of suppressed emotions. Drawing attention to the imperfectly concealed feelings would put Starscream on the defensive and make the whole situation exponentially more difficult than it already was. Instead, the Decepticon Lord brought up a highly compressed file, "Only this file filled with his observations, analysis, and conclusions about the energy crisis. I may not be a scientist, but Shockwave's graphs and charts are distressingly clear."

Starscream snorted, "I'll be the judge of that. Shockwave does make the occasional mistake."

Megatron allowed the Seeker time to study the gathered information.

The Air Commander's wings noticeably drooped in resignation as Starscream read. He looked up, meeting Megatron's optics. "My lord," Starscream began formally, "I can find no errors in Shockwave's evidence. Cyberton and the Decepticons stationed there are doomed."

"I see," Megatron's tone was quiet, subdued. He hadn't expected Starscream to find any errors in Shockwave's work.

"Well, I don't," fueled by distressed, Starscream lashed out at Megatron - the nearest target for his emotions. "Why did you show me that?"

Megatron marshaled his thoughts, "Because I need your support. What I'm planning is risky enough without having to deal with your constant attempts to seize control of the Decepticons. Any in-fighting between the two of us will destroy not only Cybertron, but the Decepticons as well - and with them, any hope of you supplanting me." Megatron relentlessly continued, "The facts speak plainly for themselves. We will not receive any re-enforcements from Cybertron, due to the situation there. Nor, do we have the resources to alleviate the energy crisis there. Our own energon supplies are dangerously low. Between the failed raids and the damaged solar panels, we don't have enough energy to properly power the Nemesis, let alone send some to Cybertron. Even if the solar panels were functioning at full efficiency, we'd barely have enough energon stockpiled for a medical emergency." The Decepticon Lord audibly cycled air through his vents, "And, none of our forces stationed through out the galaxy are able to or close enough to Earth or Cybertron to arrive in time to make a difference."

Starscream arrogantly nodded, "True enough. But what does that have to do with me?"

"I'm getting there, Starscream," Megatron didn't bother to keep his exhaustion hidden, annoyed by the other mech's condescending tone. "So within four orns, we assigned to the Nemesis will be the only Decepticons on Earth, with no hope for re-enforcements or a lasting change in our energy situation." Throwing the smaller mech a significant look, Megatron commented, "And here's where the state of our forces becomes significant. We know our status, what of the Autobots'? How will they be in four orns?"

"I'd imagine that they'd be the same as they are now. Rested, energized, and... with... almost... all... of their forces.... I think I understand the problem, sir."

Megatron flashed a grim smile, the reality of their situation was clearly sinking into the seeker's mind, "You forgot to add 'battle-hardened' and 'familiar with our tactics' to their list of advantages." The smile melted away, leaving Megatron's visage grimmer than Starscream had seen it in vorns, "To be brutally honest, I can only see three endings to this. One, we continue as we are now and get destroyed or captured and executed for our actions one by one, until no Decepticons remain. Two, inner-faction fighting accelerates the first possibility by weakening the survivors of such a slaughter - of which you would not be included. Three, and most repellent in the short term, we make peace with the Autobots to end this destructive conflict and restore order to the galaxy." The Decepticon Lord stared straight into his subordinate's optics, "You once agreed to follow me into the Pit and back. Will you follow me on a path much more treacherous? Will you help me save the Decepticons from our own destruction?"

Starscream was silent for a long moment, pride warring with survival instincts. "What do you need me to do, Lord Megatron?"

The answer came swiftly, "I will not lie to you, Starscream. What I need you to do now will be probably the most difficult thing of your career. I need you to support me when I announce making a peace treaty with the Autobots."

"What?! Megaton, are you serious?!" the Seeker's shrill voice rent the air.

Megatron's reply was quiet, "Deadly serious. All other paths lead to our destruction." Ruby optics shone with an inner flame, as Megatron's vocal intensity grew, "I will not stand by and allow our accomplishments to fall to dust, as a rusty relic of Cybertronian history. We broke the old, unjust world. I say we have a right and a duty to help rebuild it, better than before. To do otherwise will prove our nay-sayers, the very mechs and femmes who unthinkingly crushed us underfoot before, correct." Suddenly, volume draining from his voice, Megatron held out an a inviting hand, "And so I ask again: Are you with me, Starscream?"

Megatron once inspired a revolution with his words. Despite the vorns of their association, Starscream - still reeling from the earlier revelations - was not immune to Megatron's charisma. The Seeker's hand, almost of its own volition, rose towards his leader's. It halted, just short of the other hand.

"Answer me one thing, Lord Megatron. Are you truly willing to place our lives in a Prime's hands?" Starscream whispered, unwilling to completely yield his antagonistic role yet.

"In a Prime's hands? No," Megatron offered a humorless laugh. "Nor would I trust the questionable mercy of Sentinel Prime." He continued, softer, "But Optimus Prime..." Megatron paused and nodded, "Yes, Optimus Prime I'll trust."

"In that case, my Lord, you have my loyalty and my devotion. Primus have mercy on us all."

*****************************************************************************

Hours later, Megatron sat alone within his darkened quarters.

The revelation of their current situation and the plan to deal with it had gone well - or as well as could be expected when delivering such shocking information.

Like Starscream, the Decepticons of the Nemesis resisted the idea of a truce with the Autobots. Unlike Starscream, they had fallen in line quicker. But convincing a single mech had always been different than convincing a group.

With a group, the individuals were swept up in the crowd's emotions. Even those who could imperfectly see or hear the speaker were affected, the most rational of mechs behaved irrationally once caught in the emotional storm. Mob mentality, the humans called it.

It took a skilled, passionate speaker - like Megatron - to arouse a crowd of mechs, to inspire them.

Even discounting the approximately four million year stasis period, Megatron hadn't used this ability in vorns. He found, quite surprisingly, that he missed it. He missed inspiring mechs to break the shackles of everyday life, to look at the world in a new way, to consider ideas they had never thought of before.

By the time peace with the Autobots was achieved, it was likely he'd be sick of speeches and craving action. But, for the moment, Megatron savored the nearly forgotten delight of influencing others with rhetoric alone.

He'd persuaded both Starscream and the rest of the Decepticons on-board the Nemesis to necessity of his plan. He had suitable and subtle reminders prepared to remind his second in command of the precariousness of their situation ready for when the other attempted treachery once again.

(If all else failed, he could always mail the Seeker to the Ark and let Skyfire deal with Starscream for a few vorns...)

He only had to convince Prime of both his sincerity and the urgency of the crisis in order to prevent the deactivation of the Cybertronian Decepticons.

The treaty itself - he'd be surprised if the final version was completed by the end of the human year. The sheer number of issues needing to be settled practically assured any negotiation between the Autobots and Decepticons would last a while.

Months.... in the same room as Optimus Prime.... without any life-threatening distractions....

With sudden eagerness to begin the treaty negotiations, Megatron summoned up all of his charismatic eloquence and started entering a letter requesting a meeting with the Autobot leader in a medic-grade datapad.

Time to get started.

********************************************************************

It was a mission of extreme skill, daring, and stealth.

It also had the potential to be funny as Pit.

The last descriptor inspired a small, but furious, battle among Soundwave's cassettes. Each wanted to be chosen for the mission to deliver Megatron's missive to Optimus Prime.

Finally, Soundwave ended the argument by assigning the mission to Ravage. The feline was immediately beset upon by his siblings, each requesting for holos of the Prime's reaction. After all, what kind of big brother would refuse to share blackmai - er - souvenirs of his trip with his siblings?

After promising the other cassettes all the incriminating holos he could take, Ravage and the seeker dropping him off by the Ark - Skywarp, this time - left the Nemesis.

The flight towards Mt. St. Hilary and the Autobot base was routine. All of the seekers had received 'drop and recover cassetticons' missions before were well versed in the flightpath required. It wound over un-inhabited areas, required the flier to stay just above the treetops to avoid detection, and ended at a long abandoned airfield slightly beyond the Autobot security perimeter.

Once there, Skywarp's canopy opened and released Ravage.

The feline cassette easily dropped to the ground and sub-spaced his precious cargo. It would not do to miscarry the mission over something as idiotic as dropping the datapad. True, medic-grade datapads were designed to endure the hazards of a battlefield or an operating room - and their attendant messes. But, surviving getting shot by a trigger-happy Autobot who heard the 'pad land was well beyond the device's limits.

Ravage padded through the forest near the Ark, silently thanking Primus that the Autobots hadn't added to their security since the last time a cassetticon was there. He - nor Shockwave and the other Decepticons back on Cybertron - had time to waste figuring out how to circumvent some new alarm or sensor added to Red Alert's security grid.

Ravage shook himself, as if to shake off distraction. He would not accomplish the mission if he got spotted by the Autobots sentries. Refocusing his optics on the world around him, Ravage blinked in shock.

While absorbed in his own thoughts, Ravage had managed - somehow - to arrive at and enter the Ark via its ventilation system.

Such carelessness was dangerous to a spy.

Megatron wanted peace....

Later. He could think about what peace would mean for himself and his siblings after the mission. If he kept dawdling like this, the peace would never happen and his family unit would suffer.

The feline cassette eyed the ventilation system stretching before him. He'd try the Ark's common room first, then the bridge. If the Prime wasn't in either location, Ravage would need to hack into Teletraan-1, check the duty roster, and pray Optimus Prime wasn't at the idiotically named Autobot City. Autobot City was a necessity after the growing energy crisis forced Shockwave to scour Cybertron for any hidden energon deposits. Unable to remain hidden, the remaining Autobot forces had fled to Earth and inspired the creation of the City.

That wasn't why Ravage wished to stay away from it. The reason Ravage wanted to avoid the City was simple - traveling there and back would add hours on to his mission, and there simply was no time to waste.

Luck, however, was with him. Prime sat in the common room of the Ark, surrounded by various members of the Autobot high command.

Ravage's optics widened in shock, almost wishing for a set of grenades to use on the scene below. Optimus Prime, Elita-1, Ultra Magnus, Prowl, Jazz, Ironhide, Chromia, and... dear Primus, was that Alpha Trion?! Who was in charge of the Ark? Wheeljack?

Still.... This did present some very... interesting opportunities. And it would be crime to let this situation go to waste....

Ravage skulked in the shadows and began to plot.

*********************************************************

Optimus Prime toyed with his un-touched Cube of energon, knowing he should be happier than he was. His friends and family were safe and healthy, as were the mechs and femmes under his command. The various Earth governments had no new quarrels or restrictions dealing with the Autobots. Decepticon activity was at an all time low - and so were the casualties caused by their attacks. In fact, the Decepticons hadn't accomplished a successful raid in months.

If he needed something to worry about, as Ultra Magnus and Elita-1 often joked, Optimus should be wondering and preparing for the Decepticons' next attack.

Instead, Optimus found his processor occupied with thoughts about the status of life on-board the Nemesis. The Decepticons' supply of energon must be nearly exhausted, given the amount of time since their last lucrative energy theft and the lack of Decepticon space-bridge activity in the interim.

After recalling those deductions, Optimus couldn't help but wonder how the Decepticons troops are fairing. Although they're his enemies, he'd known them for vorns and was worried about them anyway. Was Soundwave getting enough energon, or had he been saving a portion of his rations for the cassetticons? How were the Seekers dealing with their claustrophobia? Were the Decepticons all right? Was Meg- Optimus harshly pushed the thought away before it could fully form. He was too late, though, to stop the familiar image of red optics in a sliver face from flashing across his mind.

Optimus compressed his mouth into a thin line. Even after all this time, he hadn't managed to train himself out of reacting to that face.

He needed a distraction, something to occupy his mind until the face returned to the memory file from whence it came.

Optimus focused his attention upon Ironhide. He was just in time to see a black blur alight upon the weapon specialist's head, jump to the table, toss something into Optimus' cube - splattering energon over the nearest mechs, drop to the floor, and scurry out of the common room.

For about thirty seconds, the entire common room froze in shock. Then, with an audio shattering roar, Ironhide charged after Ravage with Chromia hard on his heels. Ironhide's shout broke Elita-1 and Ultra Magnus out of their stunned stupor. The two commanders began coordinating locking-down parts of the Ark with the hunt for Ravage. A laughing Jazz and a smiling Alpha Trion were working on preventing Prowl's battle computer crashing and taking the tactician down with it.

Optimus, lips curled into an amused smile behind his mask, calmly fished the datapad Ravage left behind out of the Cube.

The message upon the pad was addressed to him, Optimus idly noted, and written in an unfamiliar hand. He glanced at the signature and felt his Spark tighten in dread.

Something was horribly wrong.

There was no other reason Megatron, Leader of the Decepticons, would write to Optimus Prime and request a formal meeting.

Comments

[stormqueen873.livejournal.com]

Megatron: *lifts one optic ridge* Is that so? We'll have to continue that train of thought later. *smirks as he does just what Optimus ordered* Don't think I'm going to forget either.

(Luke: No, Leia's just fine. *glances at Vader* I've got a rather strange request, actually. You know how you and Leia sent me on that enforced vacation to Naboo, even though it's an Imperial stronghold, and the Emperor has a timeshare here, and told me to play in the snow on the mountains?

Han: ...yeah?

Luke: Well, I kinda, sorta, ran into Vader-

Han: WHAT? Hang on, kid, we'll be right there!)

[rosieknight.livejournal.com]

Optimus: ...... My room is nearby..... *pause* I never knew you had a head crest. *Optimus' torso pushes through the rubble, sending it sliding down the sides of the pile*

(Vader: *to Luke, through the Force* *amused* I see you haven't told your friends about your paternity, son.)

[stormqueen873.livejournal.com]

Megatron: *simply smirks at Optimus' first comment and waits until Optimus completely frees himself before speaking* Yes, I have a head crest. What, did you think there was nothing but bare circuits under my helmet? *starts to wiggle himself free* It'd be like me assuming that face mask actually is your face. *looks up sharply* It isn't, is it?

(Luke: *Throws him an exasperated look and then responds through the Force* Hey, haven't exactly had a moment to do so. It's not like I can just drop it into conversation after dinner.

Luke: *to Han* Hey, I'm just fine. You and Leia don't have to rally anyone to rescue me, okay?

Han: *disbelieving* You sure, Luke?

Luke: *rolls his eyes* Yes, I'm sure. Ask Leia. She'll know if I'm in any danger.)

[rosieknight.livejournal.com]

Optimus: *shrugs slightly* I know several of our race who have helms built into their heads. *offers Megatron a hand* Yes, I have a face under the mask. I'll even show it to you when we get to my quarters.

(Vader: *Force voice is mild* I wasn't criticizing, Luke. I know it's not the easiest thing to reveal.

Han: ..... Kid, why would Leia know if you're in danger? Please tell me you two haven't eloped or something...

Vader: *Force voice is nervous* I think I'll go over there while you talk to Solo about Bespin *serious* If there's more to Leia rescuing you than her being both your friend and force sensitive, I don't want to know. It's safer that way.)

[stormqueen873.livejournal.com]

Megatron: *Takes hand and is hoisted to his feet* Come to think of it, I know very few of our race that do not have helms built into their heads. *leers at Optimus' other comment and continues in teasing manner* And here I thought Primes were supposed to be above such suggestiveness.

(Luke: *Force voice* Oops. Misread you. *pauses* That's pretty sad, isn't it? Considering we're supposed to sense that sort of thing. *pauses again* And I don't know. Haven't had a chance to ask Master...ah, Obi-Wan about it.

Luke: *to Han* Leia got some Force-sensitivity. Didn't she tell you how she found me on Bespin? And how can we have eloped when she's on your ship, genius?

[rosieknight.livejournal.com]

Optimus: *nods* Hence my surprise. It's very attractive, though. *mock shock* Where did you ever get that idea? *more serious, but still light* Primes have the same desires as any other Cybertronian. *pauses* Actually, we might have it worse than the rest of the population. Primus is... very vocal and frank in his assessment of any potential bond partners for an un-bonded Prime... *smirks* Including you, Megatron.

(Vader: *Force voice* It's easier when the other person doesn't have any other emotions interfering with the one they're sending. *mental shrug* I'm a Sith, Luke. Anger, fear, hate, and pain are fairly constant compainions. *pause* You can call Obi-Wan Master Kenobi without upsetting me, son. I was there when he was granted the title.

Han: Uh... no. She's been talkin' to the bigwigs about stuff. We really haven't had a chance to talk. She's Leia - ordinary mortal rules don't affect her.)

Edited: to fix spelling mistakes.

[stormqueen873.livejournal.com]

Megatron: *his optics widen and he touches the crest gingerly* Attractive, huh? *Pauses as he digests the rest, and then lifts an optic ridge as he smirks* Is he now. So he shouts at you when you should jump someone and shouts at you when you shouldn't? *His smirk fades a little* Wait. Aren't you already bonded? *His smirk fades completely* You know, to that little pink femme. Every piece of intelligence I have says so. *Both his optic ridges lift* And do I want to know what Primus says about me?

(*Luke breathes a sigh of relief -- Vader didn't notice he almost said 'Yoda'. He's not entirely sure he should let anyone know the little troll is still alive and whacking people with his cane*

Luke: *Force voice* Okay, I don't feel so bad then. And I've never really called Obi-Wan 'Master Kenobi.' He was Crazy Old Ben for the longest time, so you can imagine it was a little difficult for me to even call him Obi-Wan. *shakes head* Old habits die hard.

Luke: *to Han* Ah. Well, I'm just fine. *pauses* But the reason I contacted you just might make you rethink that.

Han:...Kid, if you say you're eloping with Vader...

Luke: *chokes* Han, where... what... *explodes in a mix of violent Huttese and Basic, calling Han and his idea every foul thing he can think of*)

[rosieknight.livejournal.com]

(This chapter has - as of posting this - 100 comments. O.o)

Optimus: Yes, it is. *pauses to let Megatron finish his questions* Not so much when I should jump someone as discussing certain features in exhaustive detail. He come across as the galaxy's biggest matchmaker, sometimes. *quietly* It's a long story, but Elita and I aren't bonded. We've been friends for vorns and we originally started those rumors to keep random Cybertronians from trying to hit on us. She's more like a sister to me than anything else. *shrugs* Elita is very happily bonded to someone else. *optic brow arches* Do you want the most memorable or just the ones since we woke up on Earth?

(Vader: *force voice* I understand the problem.

*Vader is aware that Luke is hiding something, but doesn't press him. Anything Vader learns about his son's training will have to be reported to the Emperor. And Luke needs that training.*

Vader: *hearing enough of Luke's reaction to piece together what Han implied* O.o *stalks over to the X-wing* For your information, Captain Solo, I've been married since the start of the Clone Wars! *stalks off*

*Vader expects to get lots of questions from Luke about that little outburst, but it was worth dealing with his son's curiosity.*)

[stormqueen873.livejournal.com]

(Huzzah! *throws confetti* :D)

Megatron: *looks a little self-conscious at Optimus' response* ...you aren't bad on the optics either. *blusters a little and strives to change the subject -- he looks rather surprised when Optimus fills him in on the situation with Elita* I could've sworn... well, no matter. As for Primus, why would it matter to him whether or not you're bonded? *He then lifts an optic ridge and smirks* I admit you have me curious now, Prime, so I believe I'll ask for both.

(*Luke is about to reply via Force-voice, when Vader interrupts and then a loud thud is heard over the comm unit. Luke blinks a little and then looks over at Vader's retreating back.*

Luke: *with a smirk* I think you broke him, Father. And don't think I'm going to forget about that comment, either. I want details as soon as I'm done.

Luke: Han, you still there?

Han: *pause* ...yeah. I just think I learned more I ever wanted to know about Vader.

Luke: *getting impatient* Anyway, Han, the reason I called you is because the snow gave Fa-Vader and I an idea. You ready for this?

Han: As ready as I'll ever be.

Luke: We want to transport enough snow from Hoth to Tatooine in order to cover the planet. *braces himself*)

[rosieknight.livejournal.com]

Optimus: *somehow manages to blush in repsonse to Megatron's compliment* Ah... *subject change!* Making people think Elita and I were involved was the entire point of the charade. Besides, we have the same "father". *pause* There's actually a couple reasons why Primus wants the Primes bonded. First off, being Prime is a very tough, very lonely job. Even the closest of friends can get intimidated or over-awed by the title. So, a bondmate means there's at least one person who can separate the person from the Prime. Second... apparently unbonded Primes tend to die sooner and in really stupid ways. Don't ask me why, it just happens that way. *is Prime staring at that smirk? Of course not!* Uh... Right memorable comments about you... "He's got a good, strong grip," "Lips like those all but scream 'eat me'!", "My what a dirty mouth Megatron has. Why don't you offer to clean it out for him?", "That is one molest-able chest chassiss," "Megatron's got nice hands, I bet they'd feel wonderful under your armor," "Imagine that smooth chassis under your glossa," "I like Megatron's new alternate form. It has... potential," "Your new favorite treat: Megatron's gun barrel," and he suggests a couple of places to stick your cannon or glossa... *is very embarrassed*

(Vader: *Force voice* I highly doubt I "broke" Captain Solo. And I knew you would ask about that comment when I made it.

Han: Wha?!? Repeat that, Kid. I think there's something wrong with my comm unit.)

[stormqueen873.livejournal.com]

(AN: I think I just about fell out of my chair giggling at most of Optimus' speech. Poor guy, having to say stuff that embarrassing... not that I'm complaining. >:3)

Megatron: *nods along with the information about Elita then frowns when Optimus talks about unbonded Primes* The life of any leader is never easy, regardless of whether or not you're a Prime. You must make all the difficult decisions, guide your people through prosperity and hardship, and during those times of hardship, keep their spirits from sinking. You must be competent at all times and never show any weakness or doubt, no matter what you might feel. You, at least, have the Matrix of Leadership to turn to for advice. The rest of us must rely on our own better judgment and then defend our decisions to everyone.

*He then notices Optimus staring, and the smirk grows until he registers everything Optimus tells him. His optics go wide and his mouth falls open and he stares at the fidgeting Optimus.*

Megatron: *recovers a little* He actually said all of that? About me? *At Optimus' nod, he shuts his mouth and frowns* You mean to tell me that our god is one giant dirty old mech? *pauses* ...he better not watch if this goes where I want it to...

(Luke: *Force voice* Good. *grins*

Luke: There's nothing wrong with your comm unit. Vader and I want to get together enough ships to take snow from Hoth and dump it on Tatooine. Just think of it, Han. Jabba's palace, buried in a snow drift...)

[rosieknight.livejournal.com]

(*grins* It was fun to write!)

Optimus: *nods* True enough. You, however, are not expected to act as a religious figure or a mediator between those under your command and Primus. *pinches bridge of his nose - the part that shows above his mask, anyway* I can't count the number of times I've been asked to bless something. Why they want me and not Vector Prime, who's an actual demigod, I have no idea.

*Optimus winces at the "dirty old mech" comment. Some of the previous Primes will want to talk with Megatron about that comment. (Sentinel, in particular, has no sense of humor.)*

Optimus: When I asked him about it, he said - and I quote, "Some Primes just need a good whack with a clue-by-four to see what's in front of them, Optimus. I provide that whack." *pause* Andyouwerestandinginfrontofmeatthetime. *pause* he won't. he mostly just keeps an eye on those who look like they're in serious trouble. and I want this to go the same... destination you do.

(Vader: *Force voice* I'm sure you're making a list of questions right now, Luke.

Han: *pause* That is a pretty funny image, Luke. *longer pause* You wouldn't uh... happen to know why Vader wants to bury Jabba and Tatooine in snow, would you, Kid?

[stormqueen873.livejournal.com]

(I believe it. And now I've got this image of Optimus fidgeting and poking his index fingers together as his cheeks go bright red. It's very amusing -- poor guy. The things we put characters through. :P)

Megatron: *bursts out laughing* Forgive me, but I can't see you as a religious figure. You're just... you're not... *frowns in frustration* You're Prime, not Primus. *glances at Optimus from the corner of his optic and grins slyly* Perhaps if you took a bondmate, they'd see you less as a figure and more as a mech? *notices the wince* Now what was that for? *registers the rest* Well, that's not so bad... *pauses as he really notices the rest and his optics narrow -- he's suddenly very serious* Did you really mean that?

(Luke: *Force voice* Oh, you better believe it.

Luke: *glances at Vader but speaks to Han* I know most of it, I think. You sure you wanna know, though? Might make you collapse a second time.)

[rosieknight.livejournal.com]

(Not that you can tell he's blushing with that mask on, but your image is accurate. *grins* More fun for the reader if the characters suffer a bit. And Optimus is currently suffering less here than he would elsewhere.)

Optimus: I'm a mech, not a deity? *is smiling* Thank you for making that distinction. Many don't. *laughs* I'm willing to test that theory, if the right person comes along. *thoughtful pause* Though, there are some idiots who would still try to deify me. *pause* What, the wince? Let's just say that some of the older Primes are... easily offended and leave it at that.

*There is a long pause as Optimus fidgets nervously. Knowing that the other mech deserves an answer, the Prime looks up and makes optic contact.*

Optimus: *just as serious as Megatron* Yes. Did you?

(Vader: *Force voice, teasingly* I tremble in fear. *more serious* I can't promise I'll answer all of your questions, son. But, I'll answer as many as I can handle.

Han: *indignant* I didn't collapse! I dropped something. *closer to normal* Sure, Kid, go ahead. It can't be any stranger than the rest of this comm has been.)

[stormqueen873.livejournal.com]

(Very true, on all accounts. And let me just say that I'm completely and totally head-over-heels for this pairing, so much that I gave a little happy squeal at Optimus' serious response. *sighs at self* Not sure when it happened, but I think it's the awesome skills of the writers that does it. :P)

Megatron: Well, of course you are. *shakes his head and he smirks* Anyone who has fought with you will tell you that -- a deity would not have to work so hard to beat their opponent. *shakes his head again, though his smirk is gone* What, and try to kill your bondmate for "ruining" you? Primus below. *Pauses and both his optic ridges shoot up as his smirk returns* Is that so? Well, you know what they say, be careful of what you defend. *conspiratorially* They're upset because they know it's true but they don't want to admit it.

*Megatron then watches Optimus fidget, his face betraying nothing. Only once Optimus gives his response does the tension in his shoulders ease and his optics soften. A small smile plays across his lips and he reaches out and places his hands over Optimus', who was twisting his fingers together. He looks at their hands for a moment before he looks back up.*

Megatron: Would I have said it if I didn't?

(AN: I am a very happy fangirl right now, so please excuse the flowery descriptions. X3)

(Luke: *Force voice - imperiously* As well you should be. *grins teasingly* That's all right. I'm sure I can get Artoo to answer the rest.

Luke: *patronizingly* I'm sure you did, Han. *he then sighs.* Well, Tatooine was also his home planet, and he has no love for the Hutts, so to see them at least annoyed would make him happy. Plus we both like the image of people having snowball fights in Mos Eisley.)

[rosieknight.livejournal.com]

(*grins* Hey, I like the M/OP pairing, too. Some of the authors who write it are very good, but others need a course in basic grammar and spelling.)

Optimus: *shrugs* You have a somewhat different perspective on me than most do. *snorts at the "ruining" comment* Considering where some wanted to be blessed, I don't think that's going to happen. *more serious* Besides, there are some who are willing to think that I'm already "ruined" as a Prime because I wasn't originally a Towers-built mech. *laughs at Megatron's characterization of the previous Primes* Quite possibly.

*Optimus' hands still under Megatron's touch. Part of him is still amazed that the regal Decepticon Lord would find him - a former dock worker - worthy of a second look.*

Optimus: *quietly, merely stating a fact* You are a Decepticon. *pause* I believe you, Megatron. I may be a fool, but I believe you.

*They stand looking at each other for a long moment.*

Optimus: C'mon. My quarters are just a bit farther.

(AN: It's ok. I was very happy to read your comment.)

(Vader: *Force voice* *splutters* "Artoo? You'd resort to asking Padme's droid? What's next, asking Threepio?"

Han: Vader's from Tatooine?! How the Sith-hell did that happen? *pause* And call me crazy, but seeing Jabba buried in snow is definitely something I want to help with. Count me in, Kid.)

[stormqueen873.livejournal.com]

(Oh, I know, and it makes me sad that the good authors are pretty hard to find. You have to do a lot of panning, so to speak, before you get lucky. And let's just say that I now snicker whenever I hear the phrase, "My, that's a dirty mop." It's terribly immature, but ah well.)

Megatron: That I do. *Looks faintly horrified at the "blessed" comment* Have they no shame? *makes a face* Well, at least your bondmate won't be accosted for simply being yours. *Lifts an optic ridge at Optimus' next comment* Oh, really? I assumed all Primes were chosen from among the Towers. You mean to say you weren't? *Peers at Optimus curiously* What were you, then, before you became the Prime?

*Megatron watches Optimus, whose optics show the self-doubt, and part of him warms to see Optimus so unguarded before him.*

Megatron: *smirks* If it makes you feel any better, you weren't supposed to hear the comment. *His smirk softens to a small smile and he lifts one of his hands to touch his fingertips to one of Optimus' antenna.* And this may come as a shock, but I do value trust and honesty. The Decepticons would fall apart if we didn't have some trust in each other. I even have some trust in Starscream; I trust that his plans against me will always fail. *His smirk returns briefly* I may be underhanded, ruthless, and cruel, but when, Optimus, have I ever treated you in that fashion? Not when it truly mattered. We have our petty battles when we squabble with each other over energon and the fate of Cybertron, but I ask you, when push came to shove, have you found me unworthy? *His fingers trace a circle on the base of the antenna* I want a partner, not a slave. Someone who can stand at my side as an equal, someone who I can rely on. *pauses before continuing in a soft, but feeling voice* I want someone I can love and respect, who will love and respect me in return.

*He looks at Optimus for a moment longer as his insides start to clench -- he is unused to baring such a private part of himself. He takes back his hands at Optimus' comment, and he smirks before gesturing for Optimus to lead the way.*

(AN: Okay, that took me forever. Megatron, why are you so hard to write? I want to do you justice, as I don't see you falling to your knees and reciting Petrarchan sonnets until Optimus swoons into your arms, but you fight me at every turn. Don't you want some action? Or do you just want me to have you throw Optimus over your shoulder and then race off to his quarters -- which you'll magically know where they are -- for hot wild interfacing that's been a long time coming?)

(Luke: *Force voice* Well, yeah. Have you ever looked at his memory logs? Artoo has never had a memory wipe. Never. So yeah, I'd ask him. I'd need someone to translate, but I bet he could tell me some crazy stories.

Luke: Yup, he's from Tatooine. Maybe it explains why he's so evil. *Grins teasingly at Vader, who looked up sharply* Good, I'm glad to have you on board. What I need you to do for me is get an idea of how many people would be willing to help. Vader and I will try to figure out just how much snow we'll need, and we'll go from there.)

[rosieknight.livejournal.com]

(*nods* But, the Transfandom is better than... say the Harry Potter one in terms of quantity of good authors. Yeah, I've done a lot of trawling of ff.net to find good authors and it's not easy. *snickers* It could be worse, you could laugh every time you see a mop - I've got this metal image of a Yip-yip alien after it insults the wrong TF that get brought to mind every time.)

Optimus: No, I don't think they do. *nods* Having a bondmate harrassed for being my bondmate would be... difficult, at best, to deal with. *shrugs slightly* Yes, I'm really not from the Towers. The Towers' community was absolute scandalized when they realized that. *pause* I was orginally a dock worker.

*Optimus leans into Megatron's touch. The caress on his antenna feels wonderful. Optimus offlines his vocalizer for a moment, unwilling to disturb Megatron with his inadvertant reactions to those fingers. The moment Megatron stops speaking, Optimus re-engages his vocalizer.*

Optimus: *wry grin* It does, a little. I 'm glad I heard it, though. *pause* From an Autobot perspective, it's not always obvious that there is any trust in your ranks. But, it does make sense. *ironic* I think everyone trusts that Starscream's plans will fail - even Starscream. *quietly* You have once - though that was before I was either Optimus or Prime. Other than that, never. *pause* 'Unworthy?' You? I've never thought that... You've always been worthy - more than worthy. *nods* Someone who you don't have to coddle and who won't always coddle you. *optics widen at the last bit* So do I, Megatron. So do I.

*Optimus' CPU is spinning at the information Megatron shared as he leads the way to his quarters. He'd never seen the Decepticon so vulenerable before. Perhaps... Maybe... There was a chance for them.*

(AN: Megatron looks like he's about to ask for that, when he is suddenly hit on the leg with a stick? "Do not give in to bad fic, Megatron. That way lies the Dark Side." Megatron groans. Star Wars fans.)

(AN: I'll do the rest after work. And spell check it.)

[stormqueen873.livejournal.com]

(That's for dang sure. I've got my own peeves with the HP-fandom (too many preteens in it, with their parade of Mary Sues) and with JKR for the direction the books took after the fourth one (I honestly felt like I started reading fanfiction. Either the stories I read had authors that are brilliant clairvoyants, or JKR went around and picked up the ideas from the most popular ones. Irks me a little either way), but rather than rant about it here, I'll stick to the topic at hand. *grins* And same here. I'm glad they've got filters on some of the fandoms, so you don't have to sift through pages of a pairing you don't care for, but the TF fandom there is such a pain to dredge through, simply because there are so many universes, and it seems like there's a lot of needless drama on that particular site, more so than any other fandom I've come across. I know there's one guy who goes around essentially flaming the people who don't have their titles capitalized in the proper places, or have poor story descriptions.

And you've made me burst out giggling in an absolutely quiet work environment with that image of the Yip Yip alien on a stick. I had to close the window because people were poking their heads over the cubicle walls to see what was so funny. *shakes head* That'll teach me to answer my email at work. :P

And now, without further ado, the real reason these things have been going back and forth for... what? Two weeks now?)

Megatron: *makes a sound of disgust over the thought of shameless zealots and then lifts both his optic ridges at the information Optimus imparts, though he grins at the thought of the outraged Tower community* I'm glad to hear that. The last thing they needed was another puppet of a Prime. *pauses as he peers again at Optimus, his optics wide* You? You were originally meant for back-breaking labor? *his optics narrow as something niggles at the back of his processor, and he debates with himself before voices his question* Where were you located? *hesitates* The docks at Tyger Pax?

*Pauses as he returns Optimus' wry grin*

Megatron: If we didn't, none of us would recharge. And why would any of them follow me if they didn't trust me to see them to a better future? *smirks at the Starscream comment* For one so intelligent, it's a wonder things backfire on him so frequently. *He shakes his head and chuckles* There are times when I think he must be a joke created by Primus, though the purpose still eludes me.

*He looks at Optimus sharply when the mech tells him he treated Optimus that way once, but he says nothing. A sinking suspicion has crept over him ever since Optimus told him he was once a dock worker, and this bit of information has only increased it, so he finds it better to simply keep his mouth shut until it is either confirmed or denied. He does, however, smile ever so slightly at Optimus' comment about worthiness. The comment makes him happy, but he tries not to show just how much -- they've gone off the map in terms of standard interaction between them, and though he doesn't want to admit it, he's worried one wrong move with send it all unraveling.*

(AN: The rest is in the next post -- apparently it's too long!)

[stormqueen873.livejournal.com]

Megatron: *nods along with Optimus' additional comments about a partner* Someone to fall back on when you need it, to help you when burdens are too great. *He looks away as his optics stare off into the distance.* I gave up hope long ago of ever finding such a being, no matter how I might wish to have an equal at my side. *He pauses, and when he continues, his voice is softer* I've known only struggle, violence, and hatred from the first moment I was brought online -- my world burned away any semblance of what a Tower denizen might call 'culture' or 'refinement.' You didn't live in my hometown. You fought, suffered, and survived. Love was a luxury that didn't exist outside of tales woven by the desperate to give younglings hope when they looked to the future. *He shakes his head ever so slightly and his lips curve downwards* But when you reached a certain age, you began to realize that they were simply dreams. Love wasn't meant for a being like you. You were the lowest of the low, created by Primus to work and die in the mines, and not good for anything else. You toiled endlessly to meet an energon quota set by fools who had no concept of what it took to mine, you accepted your punishment when you didn't meet it, and you kept moving forward. You didn't bother to pick up any who fell along the way. Why should you? They were too weak to survive. It was kinder to throw their broken bodies into the smelting pits. *His optics flicker at the memories only he can see.* Only the most foolish still clung to the hopes of love and happiness, to keep themselves from feeling how rotted and dead the so-called society was. *His optics darken as his frown deepens.* I knew many who told themselves that all they'd need was someone to love them, someone who would take them out of the mines and away from everything difficult. They wasted away dreaming when they could've been trying to change their lives for the better. *He shakes his head again.* Mechs speak of the fall of the golden age, but it was only golden to those who didn't look beyond their sheltered dwelling. To the rest of us, it was a moment long dreamed of.

*He gives himself a little shake to knock himself out of those memories, and he falls silent as he realizes just what he said and who he said it to. He crosses his arms over his chest as they walk down the hall and he doesn't dare look at Optimus -- sharing so much so quickly has unnerved him, even though he knows Optimus would never taunt him for it. He is afraid, however, of losing respect -- Decepticon commanders are not supposed to be so sentimental. Those were Autobot traits, and he wonders how he picked them up so quickly and whether or not it's a good thing. He thinks it might be more good than bad. If he can make Optimus understand why he does the things he does, then perhaps... perhaps they might reach something he can't bring himself to hope for.*

(AN: Phew! If I thought that last bit was hard, it had nothing on this one. I really hope I did him justice; he's a hard character to get my head around when he's not being the stereotypical "BWAHAHAHAHA I SHALL DESTROY IT ALL!" type villain.

And now I have this image of Megatron and Optimus sitting on a couch and munching on energon goodies as they watch the drama we're writing unfold.

Optimus: *says teasingly to Megatron* Wow. She's made you quite eloquent. I never knew you had such an extensive vocabulary.

Megatron: *glares and steals the energon goodies* If you're going to poke fun, you can't have any. *sniffs indignantly* I like how noble she's made me, even if it doesn't fit with most of my canon incarnations.

:3)

(And no worries. How do you edit posts, btw? If I can figure out how to edit replies, I'll put my SW reply in here when you put yours together. :P)

[rosieknight.livejournal.com]

(*nods* I know what you mean. The Sues - both Mary and Gary Stu - bug the heck out of me. How hard is it to flesh out an existing character? Pick someone we really don't know that much about and tell their story. It's better than dropping a thinly disguised version of yourself into Hogwarts. As for the books themselves... I really didn't like the fifth book. Harry was too angry throughout the entire thing - yes, he has a right to be upset, but he came across as PMSing. HBP - I'm glad we've got more background on Voldy and Snape, Lily, and the Marauders. But, Dumbledore was an idiot to ignore Harry's warnings. DH - Did a good job wrapping things up and was somewhat realistic about the difficulties of finding the Horcruxes. And there's my $0.02 on that.

*rolls eyes* The only reason I'm still on ff.net is this: it covers my core fandoms (like Star Wars) and my occasional ones (like DarkWing Duck or Howl's Moving Castle). I haven't found another site with both the range of fandoms and a URL that I'll remember.

*laughs* Sorry about that.)

Optimus: *nods* Both Primus and my Creator said something similar. They called me an "independent Prime". *draws adjacent to Megatron* Yes, I was originally intended to be a laborer. Is that so hard to believe? *pauses, step faltering* How did you...? Never mind. Tyger Pax was the last place I worked prior to becoming the Prime. Why?

*Optimus is thankful for Megatron's returning humor. Even if it's just poking fun at Autobot prejudices and Starscream, it a welcome sign. Optimus worried about Megatron's interest in the past - and what it could do to this... thing between them. He might not have forgotten the attack, but he has long forgiven Megatron. Optimus would not have existed if Megatron hadn't shot Orion. Orion Pax had been to sheltered, too self-centered to make a good Prime. But how to tell that to Megatron?*

Optimus: *lightly* You recharge? *serious* I can respect that. It's why the Autobots follow me. Not to restore a dead society, but to make a better one for all of us. *pause* Well, maybe not Cliffjumper. *mildly* Have you ever considered that Starscream might be messing up on purpose? He makes the attempts to keep you on your guard, but every time it appears he will succeed he does something "stupid" and fails to supplant you.

*Optimus knows they're in uncharted territory concerning their relationship. It's frightening, but oddly liberating. No matter what happens, Megatron will never look at Optimus as just an enemy ever again.*

Optimus: *quietly* You were a miner?

*It's not what he wants to say, but the horror of Megatron's early life stuns him. And Megatron won't accept pity - even if it's sympathy or respect for surviving that. That he grew up around such horror explains much about Megatron, but... Optimus mentally shakes himself. He needs to keep Megatron from shutting him out before it's too late for them.*

(More to come. Length issues.)

[rosieknight.livejournal.com]

Optimus: *placing a hand on Megatron's shoulder* I apologize for that question. It was not what I wanted to say, Megatron, but my thoughts were so jumbled up that it slipped out. I'm sorry you had to grow up there, sorry places like that ever existed on our home-world. *sighs* But that doesn't change anything. *pause* I disagree with your assessment of Primus. He... as much as he comes across as a "dirty old mech," Primus does care. *optics are unfocused, as if listening to a far-away voice* He didn't create anyone to "work and die in the mines" only. He... created us, but we created our society. The only structure Primus put in place himself was that of the Prime. It was the rigidity of our society that led to it's collapse. *optics re-focus on Megatron* I hope that made sense. *pauses* As a fellow former laborer, I agree with you about the decay during the "Golden Age". I remember the mech in-charge of the docks arguing with some official from Iacon about how much energon we were supposed to ship. *shakes head* The only way we could've met the quota was if every shift worked every orn for a vorn, without a breem of rest. Luckily for all of us, there was a well known, well respected mech visiting the docks that day and he managed to talk sense into the official.

*Optimus hopes... Optimus hopes for many things to happen, but now all he wants is for this... connection between himself and Megatron to remain, to grow into something they both want. And possibly even need.*

Optimus: *realizes something* Hey, we're here. *opens door* Welcome to my quarters, Megatron.

*The main room houses a desk - organized but not clean, some comfortable chairs, a large couch, an entertainment system - with movies and music, and shelves filled with datafiles. The files, like the music and movies, are an eclectic mix - suggesting Optimus' interests are diverse. (Or that he's a packrat.) A holo of Optimus, Elita, and Magnus sits prominently on the desk, while one of Orion, Ariel, and Dion hangs discreetly by the door. There's a door beside the desk, leading to Optimus' secondary office/war room and another near the entertainment center that opens into his "bedroom".*

Optimus: *slightly nervous* Choose a seat, Megatron, or look around, if you'd prefer. Would you like some energon?

(*nods* But I think Megatron's more interesting when he's got a greater range than the stereotypical villain mode.

*laughs* I love this mental image!

Optimus: It depends on which cannon, Megatron.)

(Quick semi-random question: What time zone are you in? I think you're ahead of me, as it's about half past midnight when I post this.)

The Star Wars stuff.

[rosieknight.livejournal.com]

(To edit a comment, you need to have a better account than the old "standard" one I usually have. There's a button - the icon looks like a pencil - that lets you edit. Unfortunately, this particular entry doesn't acknowledge my (temporary) paid account status. I don't know why, either.)

Vader: *force voice* I know that, Luke. I built a back-up memory unit for Artoo, just to prevent a memory wipe from taking his personality. *pause* I was teasing you a little. Your mother originally owned Artoo and I built Threepio. *beat* I wouldn't suggest telling Princess Leia that, however. It's not his fault who built him or that he doesn't remember.

Han: Kid, you know how unpopular Jabba is in the underworld? You're going to have people paying you for the chance to dump snow on him. I'll check with a couple of smuggler groups who owe Jabba some mild payback. You want me to comm your X-wing with the info?

Han: And what do you want me to tell Leia?

Edit: Ok, I think the reason I can't edit the earlier comment is because I signed out of my lj account before I went to work. *shrugs* I wasn't about to leave my comp running for over five hours during thunderstorm season.

Re: The Star Wars stuff.

[stormqueen873.livejournal.com]

Okay, well, I can't edit my posts because I've got the cheapo free version of livejournal. Arg. >:( (And this so needs angry smilies.)

Anyway, on to the reply.

Luke: *Force voice* Really? Wow. Well, Artoo hasn't needed it yet. He must've hack the computer or something whenever he was scheduled for a memory wipe to make it look like he already had one. *Pauses* Yeah, I don't think it'd be good for Leia to know that either. Plus Threepio is a bit... well, I don't know how to put it. But I think he'd feel guilty, or something, if anyone told him.

Luke: *laughs* Glad to hear it, and yes, please let me know how many you get together and what their storage capacity is. We'll get to work on figuring out how much we'll need. *pauses* And you can tell Leia exactly what I told you. She'll be able to tell if you're lying anyway.

(Yeah, I don't think I'd leave my computer running either. Plus it runs up the electric bill and whatnot...)

Re: The Star Wars stuff.

[rosieknight.livejournal.com]

(Agreed!)

Vader: *Force voice* *amused* It wouldn't surprise me if he'd picked up a version of the Jedi Mind Trick from all the time he spent with Force sensitives. And Threepio is Threepio, no need to say anything else.

Han: Sure thing, Kid. *pause* Do you mind if I bring a holocamera to this party?

(*nods*)