Optimus was thinking about the final battle with Megatron.

"Optimus, why so glum?" Ratchet asked as he walked over to him. "This planet—all planets—are finally free of Megatron's tyranny."

"I do not disagree, Ratchet," Optimus said. "It's just… a small part of me hoped to change Megatron's mind, not extinguish his spark. The human boy in my dreams even agrees with me."

"Ugh, this again," Ratchet muttered to himself. He was getting annoyed and worried about this boy, 'Steven', Optimus was dreaming of for the past two weeks. He then spoke up. "Optimus, his vileness was not slain by your hand but by his own TWISTED arrogance."

"Hmm," Optimus turned away from his friend.

"I'm sorry. I know the two of you had quite a history."

"But the Megatron whom I once fought beside perished eons ago, the day he chose to become a Decepticon," Optimus turned to Ratchet, having another premonition. "The Decepticons may be in disarray, but they aren't without leadership. And while Starscream is no Megatron, he is far from predictable. You may want to brace yourself."

"Why would I-?"

Ratchet was cut off by an explosion that rocked the base.

"Decepticons! We're under attack!" Ratchet said.

Optimus and Ratchet ran to the source of the explosion.

"It's no attack, Ratchet," Raf said with a few coughs. "It's my volcano." – the 'volcano' melted—"Or was."

"Hold still, Bulkhead," Ratchet and Optimus looked in the direction of Miko's voice. "Jupiter needs its red spot."

Bulkhead was holding up a model of the solar system while Miko painted it, accidently leaving paint stains on the floor.

"Whoopsie!" Miko said.

"Miko, perhaps you should have put newspapers down before starting your project," Optimus said.

"What… in the AllSpark is going on in here?" Ratchet asked.

"Our projects are due tomorrow," Jack said by the motorcycle he and Arcee were working on.

"Maybe it needs one of these doohickeys," Arcee held up a motorcycle part.

"You're a motorcycle, Arcee. Shouldn't you know how to build a motorcycle engine?"

"You're a human, Jack. Can you build me a small intestine?"

(A/N: I found out some scientists 3D printed a small human heart, jumping a hurdle in eliminating organ donors)

"Well, you can't work on these projects in here. You're… making a mess," Ratchet said.

"But the science fair is a big part of our grade," Raf said.

"Yeah, if Bulkhead doesn't help me finish this model of our solar system—"

"Oh?" Ratchet sarcastically cut off Miko. "And what does BULKHEAD know of YOUR solar system or Bumblebee of your volcanoes, or—"

"Arcee of our motorcycles?" Jack finished Ratchet's statement.

"Precisely! We're not earthlings. And THEY'RE not SCIENTISTS."

Optimus spoke up to defuse the situation. "But the Autobots ARE their guardians, Ratchet. Would it hurt to learn more of earth by helping our young friends with their schoolwork?"

"Well, maybe our young friends should try learning more of CYBERTRON. By the way, how did you know of the explosion, Optimus?"

"I had a premonition again, and I assumed it was either a Decepticon attack, or, well…" Optimus gestured to the 'volcano'.

"Oh, not this, again!" Ratchet facepalmed.

"Here we go with this argument, again," Arcee said as she rolled her optics.

"What?" Jack asked.

"Optimus thinks he can predict the near future," Bulkhead said.

"Given the evidence, I believe I am," Optimus said.

"They're coincidences!" Ratchet said.

("Isn't this the fourth time it's happened?") Bumblebee held out four fingers.

"Five," Arcee said.

"My great-aunt used to get predictions," Miko said. "She predicted two earthquakes, five of my cousins' genders before they were born, and 17 winning lottery numbers!"

"Now, most of that is a load of scrap," Ratchet said.

"Ratchet, if Miko's family truly believes it—"

"Half of them don't," Miko cut off Optimus. "But, I prefer to keep an open mind."

"Ugh," Ratchet rolled his optics.

"Miko, how about you and Bulkhead clean up the paint on the floor while I set up a place for you to work on your project?" Optimus suggested.

"Sure!" Miko said.

"We probably should've done that first," Bulkhead said.

"Ratchet, would you like to help with research on their projects?" Optimus asked.

"I'll look for Decepticons, instead," Ratchet walked back to the computers.

Optimus sighed.

Xxx

Optimus was overseeing the kids' science projects, taking mental notes on each facet of science.

Bumblebee was telling Raf about the Cybertronian military.

"Really, Bumblebee?" Raf asked. "Then how do you make warrior class?"

("I need more combat experience.")

"But I've seen you in action. You're AWESOME!"

("Well, it's—")

"I second your opinion, Raf," Optimus said as he joined in on the project. "But Cybertronian life cycles are much longer than humans. And though it may seem had to believe, our young scout still has much to experience." He looked up as he felt the others looking at him. "What? What is it? Why are you all staring?"

"It kinda looks like your third optic's glowing," Jack said.

"And we're not sure if it's a trick of the light," Miko said.

Optimus sighed as he retracted his visor. "Look, it's most likely—"

"Sweet Solas Prime, it is!" Arcee exclaimed as everyone stepped back.

"Dude, are you having another prediction?!" Miko asked.

Optimus reactivated his visor. "I'll ask Ratchet to—"

He was cut off by the computer beeping.

("If this is six out of six, I'm gonna freak out,") Bumblebee said.

The bots and humans walked over to Ratchet.

"Exposed energon, and it's on the move," Ratchet told them.

"And since we ain't moving it, guess how must be," Bulkhead said.

Everyone looked at Optimus.

"Decepticon activity was bound to happen," Optimus stated. I can't say anything about my premonition!

"They're doing it without Megatron?" Miko asked.

"Unfortunately, Megatron's legacy will live on as others rise to take his place. Autoboots, you have projects to complete. Ratchet, I may require aid."

Ratchet looked at the volcano Raf was working on. "Science fair is a big part of their grade. Perhaps I'm better suited to remain behind and advise."

"Very well" I knew he'd come around to it, eventually. "Bumblebee, let us see about this energon in transit."

("Okay, sir,") Bumblebee said.

Xxx

Steven was practicing a new song he heard on the radio when Pearl and Amethyst returned home on the warp pad.

"Hey, guys. How's the galaxy warp?" he asked.

"Peridot's still working on a stable design so we can warp to the other universe find Garnet and 'Optimus'," Pearl said.

"I hope they're okay. The Decepticons seem really bad."

"Did Optimus say anything to you last night?" Amethyst asked.

"Well, his medic and friend—Ratchet—doesn't believe him about the fusion situation and thinks he's going crazy whenever Optimus mentions me."

"Is Garnet able to get through to him?" Pearl asked.

"We've been trying to, but it's pretty hard. Optimus says it'd because of the Matrix of Leadership he has. It can apparently block emotions he has."

Pearl and Amethyst shuddered.

"That is very unnerving! Pearl said.

Xxx

Optimus and Bumblebee exited the groundbridge.

("Something doesn't feel right about this mission,") Bumblebee said.

"No, Bumblebee, it does not," Optimus made sure Bumblebee was behind him. "Hold your position and await my command."

Bumblebee stayed put as Optimus walked ahead.

Optimus had a bad feeling about this… and stopped walking because he was getting another vision.

Optimus and Bumblebee were fighting a Decepticon seeker.

Optimus sighed. This is going to be seven out of seven.

He knew it was seven out of seven when he saw Skyquake towering over Starscream in a threatening manner.

"It has been a while, Skyquake," Optimus said, getting their attention.

Starscream burst out laughing when they saw Optimus' new look.

Scrap! I forgot!" Optimus mentally kicked himself.

"Oh! This has just made my day—AH!" Starscream grunted as Skyquake pushed him aside.

"Optimus Prime," Skyquake said. "I haven't seen you since the battle of Technar. Nice look," Skyquake gave a taunting smirk before getting serious again. "Megatron gave me orders to annihilated you."

"That was along time ago," Optimus stepped forward.

"That may be, Prime, but my orders still stand."

"Is this ancient war still fighting—" Bumblebee's going to get involved soon, isn't he? "—when so many comrades have been lost and worlds destroyed? If you want to be a true leader, Starscream, then STRAY from Megatron's path and lead the Decepticons towards peace."

"G-give me a-a moment," Starscream stifled his laughter and stopped it. "I would be willing to consider a truce… if YOU would be willing to BOW to me, Optimus Prime."

"Again?! Bow to this!" Skyquake punched Starscream into the canyon wall.

Starscream groaned and flew off.

There's only one way this is going. Optimus stepped forward again. "Skyquake, this is a new era on another world. Side with the Autobots, and help me end this conflict forever."

"I will NEVER side with a Prime!" Skyquake charged at him.

Why do I even bother? Optimus braced himself as Skyquake punched him into the wall.

Optimus saw himself getting killed.

Optimus had an expression of fear behind his mask and visor as Skyquake picked him up and threw him.

Xxx

Starscream landed and walked next to Soundwave.

"What need have I for peace when I have Skyquake?" Starscream asked. "With some discipline, he will learn to respect his new master. And once it becomes known that Skyquake DESTROYED Optimus Prime under MY command, ALL Decepticons will gratefully bow to me. Also, try and use Optimus' new look as propaganda for moral."

Soundwave cocked his head.

"What? He looks funny!" Starscream said.

Xxx

("Oh, Primus!") Bumblebee whispered as his wings twitched with worry.

Optimus transformed his right hand into a blaster and hot Skyquake… with a fire ball.

(A/N: yeah, yeah, I know, wrong Gem, but I misremembered, and it's too late now, so deal with it!)

Needless to say, everyone was surprised by that.

It seems to be as powerful as my normal shots. Optimus thought.

Skyquake pulled out his Gatling gun from subspace and began shooting at Optimus, pushing the Prime back.

("Optimus! I've got you!") the scout got involved.

"Bumblebee, no!" Optimus said. He predicted Bumblebee would die.

Bumblebee shot Skyquake in the back.

Skyquake spun around and began shooting the scout.

Bumblebee dodged the shots and tried to parkour him to the ground, but Skyquake threw him against the wall.

As Skyquake pulled the trigger for the kill, but Optimus pushed the seeker's gun's nose to the air, saving Bumblebee.

Bumblebee tried to tackle him again, but ended with similar results.

Xxx

"Do not miss a single moment, Soundwave!" Starscream ordered. "We shall need visual documentation of Optimus Prime's demise for the historical record."

"… propaganda for moral," Soundwave played back.

"Well, obviously!"

Xxx

Optimus wound back for a punch, and when he struck a blow on Skyquake, he discovered his hand had turned into a gauntlet.

Skyquake responded with several punches and tossed Optimus back.

("Optimus, what do we do?") Bumblebee asked as Optimus steadied himself.

"Skyquake has not yet acquired a vehicle mode," Optimus said.

Skyquake's colors were on a jet similar to Agent Fowler's jet.

That better not happen! Optimus thought as Skyquake ran towards them with his Gatling gun. "Fall back!"

Optimus and Bumblebee transformed and sped off.

"So, time has made you a coward, Prime?!" Skyquake accused and began firing.

Xxx

"We've lost sight of them!" Starscream said. "Soundwave, why aren't you tracking them?"

Soundwave's sonar/radar beeped.

"What? What is it?" Starscream growled.

Soundwave showed him a life signal in the space bridge debris.

"A second Decepticon life signal? But Skyquake is the only sleeper buried in this area."

Soundwave zoomed in. Idiot. He thought.

"The site of our destroyed space bridge," Starscream put two and two together. "You're not telling me that life signal belongs to… Megatron?" Starscream got a look of fear on his face. "B-b-but he was microns away from the detonation point! Nothing could have survived that blast! Your scanners must be faulty! Ignore that contact! Delete the coordinates!"

Even though he had a mask, Soundwave glared at Starscream, not willing to let this go.

Starscream got scraed. "Oh, what am I saying? O-of course this" he chuckled nervously "must be investigated. If Lord Megatron is up there, it shall bring him home."

Really? Soundwave thought.

"Remain here and monitor the outcome," Starscream ordered. "When Skyquake snuffs Prime's spark, I must bear witness." Starscream flew off to the coordinates.

Soundwave watched and played back: "Must bear witness." And set Lazerbeak after the seeker.

Xxx

Agent Fowler was flying in his jet when he intercepted a transmission.

"Tango six alpha to central command. We're picking up transmissions from unknown technology, possible hostile. We are moving to investigate."

Fowler pressed a reply button. "Negative, Tango six alpha. This is Special Agent William Fowler intercepting. Strike your reports from the records and provide origin coordinates. I'll take it from here."

Xxx

Optimus and Bumblebee had split up in a fork in the canyon.

Skyquake followed Bumblebee.

Optimus saw Bumblebee's lifeless body.

Optimus began to follow Skyquake.

"It will be a shame to crush you, bug, but it is my duty," Skyquake said.

Optimus honked his horn and transformed as Skyquake began shooting at him, but Optimus tackled him into the canyon wall.

"Excellent strategy, Bumblebee," Optimus said.

Skyquake groaned as he fell down. He scratched Optimus in an attack as he got up.

"Skyquake, stay down," Optimus warned and punched the mech to his back with one blow…

… then he heard jet engines.

Optimus looked up. "Fowler?" his optics widened. Oh, scrap! "Agent Fowler, fall back!"

Skyquake scanned Fowler's jet.

Xxx

Fowler grunted as sparks came from his jet console.

The jet was fine.

Xxx

Skyquake transformed into his new alt mode and took to the sky.

He flew net to Fowler's jet.

Xxx Fowler's jaw dropped. Well, I'll be a bald eagle.

Xxx

"Air superiority achieved," Skyquake said.

Skyquake began firing at Optimus and Bumblebee.

The two Autobots took to their alt modes and drove and dodged the shots.

Optimus saw Bumblebee getting blown up.

Skyquake had prepared his missiles.

Xxx

Fowler started firing on Skyquake.

"Stealing plans for a classified military aircraft will NOT be tolerated on MY WATCH!"

The two jets got into a dogfight and Skyquake launched his missiles.

"Heat seekers!" Fowler did a risky move.

He almost flew into a wall before pulling up quickly.

The missiles exploded into the wall.

"I still got it," Fowler said.

Xxx

Steven was about to eat his peanut butter and jelly sandwich when he felt a sting in his chest and lightheaded enough to faint.

"Steven!" Amethyst ran to Steven. "Yo, Pearl! Steven fainted!"

"WHAT?!" Pearl ran in from outside with the groceries.

Steven groaned as he sat up.

Amethyst and Pearl immediately began asking him questions.

"Guys, I think I just had another psychic connection, like the one I told you before Garnet left! I think someone's in trouble!"

xxx

Optimus and Bumblebee rounded a corner as Skyquake shot a missile at them.

Optimus dodged out of the way of a missile, but debris from the missile impact forced him to transform into bot mode.

Optimus saw Bumblebee drive up a ramp and out of his line of sight.

He then heard metal scraping and then saw Skyquake flying up with a passenger.

He's going to die! Optimus pressed his comm. "Agent Fowler, we require immediate assistance. Bumblebee has grabbed onto Skyquake and is in danger of losing his life!"

"Got it, Prime," Fowler said.

A minute later, Optimus saw a burning Skyquake fall and crash to the ground, sans Bumblebee.

Optimus let out a huge sigh of relief.

He walked over to the crash site and saw the gruesome wreck of Skyquake, half-transformed, as he offlined.

Bumblebee walked up to Optimus' side.

"Had Skyquake chosen to stray from his master's path, we might not be burying him today," Optimus said.

Xxx

Soundwave looked at the battle results. I'm going to have to edit this A LOT to make this POSITIVE propaganda!

Xxx

Ratchet was finishing repairing Bumblebee.

"Bumblebee, putting yourself at risk was perhaps not the wisest of stratagies, but you performed admirably," Optimus said.

("Yeah, I know. I overheard you and Ratchet, uh, discussing your visions while in stasis," Bumblebee said.

Ratchet opened his mouth to dismiss the visons, again, when he heard car honks. "Ah-ha-ha! There you are." He said as the kids exited their guardians. "Well? How were my—uh, our projects received?"

"Well…" Raf trailed.

"I managed to weasel my way into a 'C' by saying the model of Cybertron was a hypothetical planet," Miko said. "And Cybertron left a dent in the teacher's desk."

"The engine backfired and went haywire. It broke a door and a few lockers," Jack said.

"The volcano blew a hole all the way through the roof," Raf said.

"In other news, guess who has two thumbs and no Saturday detention?" Miko thumbed up herself.

"Well, on our planet, you would have been awarded the highest honors," Ratchet angrily said. He walked off grumbling, "Absolutely no gratitude. See if I help them."

("Maybe Ratchet SHOULDN'T have helped them,") Bumblebee said.

"Indeed, Bumblebee," Optimus said. "Our human friends would have been wise to stray from Ratchet's path."

Xxx

Later that evening, Optimus was walking to his room for recharge. He was going to see if he and Steven could make contact with Garnet.

"Optimus," Ratchet walked up to him. "I'm starting to worry about your mental health. Th-these visions—these visions—they're all in your head. I believe that light that hit you did more than cosmetic changes."

"Ratchet, I can assure you that I am mentally sound," Optimus said.

"Well, I still think you should get a psychological evaluation."

"Perhaps we should discuss this later. In the morning."

Optimus walked into his room, laid down on his recharge berth, and drifted into recharge.

Xxx

Optimus walked along the beach to the multi-armed, female temple that was Steven's home.

"Hi, Optimus!" Steven waved as he ran up to the Prime. "Are you ready to try and talk to Garnet again?"

"Of course. But, Steven, you remember how my friend believes I am having mental issues? He wants me to get a psychological exam. Do you know what that means?" Optimus asked.

"Only from TV."

"Well, it means I'm going to have to talk with someone, and that person will try and figure out whether or not I am… mentally sound of mind."

"Does that mean you don't want to talk today?"

"Oh, no, I will. But I won't be able to for a while. Perhaps we can talk next week."

"Okay, Optimus."

"Now, why don't we try and talk to Garnet?"