Author's Note: This story takes place during All 4 One. A short, funny vignette :) I hope you all enjoy! And reviews and constructive criticisms are always greatly appreciated :)

Disclaimer: I do not own Ratchet and Clank.

We Make an Excellent Team

"This should take us up. Hey pal, give me a hand with this?" Ratchet said over his shoulder. Without missing a beat, Clank hopped down from his back and ran to the other side of the crank.

The two leaned their weight forward in unison, expecting it to turn with ease as the others had, but it wouldn't budge. Ratchet dug his heels into the floor and leaned all his weight into it. Clank did the same, but the crank only shifted a few centicubits. "I think it's rusted," Ratchet said in a strained voice.

"Indeed..."

Out of the corner of his eye, Ratchet could see Qwark step up beside him in his usual egotistical mien. "Step aside, young cadets," he drawled, puffing his chest out nobly.

"We got it, Qwark," Ratchet sang through his teeth, failing to keep the irritation from his voice.

Qwark patted Ratchet's head. "Now now, there's no need to be embarrassed. Not everyone is gifted with such-"

Ratchet threw up a hand in exasperation. "We don't need your help!"

Clank continued to push, and suddenly, the crank gave way. The motion, taking Clank off guard, sent him sprawling to the ground. The platform below them rose, taking Ratchet's attention away from Qwark, but Ratchet noticed his side of the handle leave his hand too late. The crank swung around and collided with Ratchet's spine, knocking him down face-first across from his robotic friend.

Qwark stiffened and held his hands up innocently as Nefarious boredly looked on. Ratchet stayed where he was on the ground and let out a moan. "Ugh...I'm gonna kill him, Clank," he swore, his voice muffled in the platform's floor.

"Ratchet," Clank said, narrowing his optics at the Lombax.

Nefarious stepped over the two and finished turning the crank, mumbling, "Not if I do first..."