Before I start with the story, allow me to share something for the Fanfiction community. How many of you know of a little game called Five Nights at Freddy's? Well for those of you that didn't know, it's a little Indy game that turned into an actual classic in the making. Game's mostly about you taking part in the Night Shift of a family pizzeria where animal animatronics move around the establishment to find you. You have to make sure that they don't get close to you, cause if they do, you're good as dead. It has a really good horror aspect to the whole thing and the jump scares are extremely good. In less then a year, it spanned four games and has led the way to other Five Night parodies from Disney to Spongebob. Of course these spin offs were missing one type of media, and that's Hatsune Miku and her Vocaloid characters. Now Hatsune and her friends are somewhat of virtual idols that have so many hit songs, video games, concerts, and the whole fan media base. Which is why I think they should have a FNaF game as well. Too bad no one ever does that. Maybe this story I started could help. I call this story 'Five Nights at Miku's' and it focuses on you as a security guard, working the nightshift at a new amusement park dedicated by Miku and her friends, the coolest part is that these characters aren't animatronics, but interactive holograms that sing, perform, mingle, and talk to park goers. It's a very cool story and it really is quite a refresher compared to the FNaF games. I even have plans for a special surprise within the story that will let people do a head turn on it. If you're interested in this story, check my profile page and look for Five Nights at Miku's. So far it's just a prolong and the first two nights. I might work on it from time to time, giving how long Henry Cerro is going to edit the chapters for my Transformers Infinite crossover we're working on together. But hey, we'll see what happens.

Well, this is it, the final chapter of Transformers Prime: John and Elsa. Got to say, it was quite an experience I've done. With a total of over 18,000 views and 80 reviews, it was a very promising story. Though I got to say that my last chapter was a bit of a lack luster of over a hundred views and one review. Certainly was expecting more. But regardless, it was a good enough turn out. Creating a story that would be a prequel to one of the episodes I would be working on for my own version of the TFP third season isn't an easy accomplishment. Plus, with all the others stories I am working on along with other things such as school, work, trips, and the occasional hard drive crashed, it could get a little frustrating. But at least I can recover from all of that and now I might be able to finish with this little story and start one story that I've been keeping on hold for a long time. Not going to tell you much, but it would involve another cartoon show I loved and a video game series I enjoyed the most. You'll know it when it's published. For now, let's finish this story up.

Getting to the last chapter, the team tries desperately to save Elsa as she was infected by the energy of Dark Energon. Will they be able to save her in time?

Disclaimer: I don't own Transformers Prime or Gunslinger Girl

Chapter Thirty: Family

In the Autobot Outpost, there was some strong tension within the group as one of the humans was hurt. They were successful in saving Elsa and retrieving the Intel the Decepticons took from the Social Welfare Agency. Even in the final battle with Megatron, Optimus did got the assist from Elsa de Sica and in the end, they managed to defeat him. However, that would've come with a price. At the end of the fight, Megatron insisted that Elsa would finish him off for glory and legacy, yet she refused for she doesn't want to kill someone who couldn't stand up to fight. Doing so, Megatron made a desperate act and took out one of the humans, and that said human was Jonathan Darby. Elsa felt that coming and turned to see the Decepticon leader ready to fire on her handler. In a last minute attempt, Elsa pushed him out of the way, only to get caught in the blast in the process. Now Elsa is hurt badly as the Dark Energon was spreading into her system.

In the medical ward, Ratchet was patching up Optimus as a vat of new energon was pumping into his system. Close by was John and June tending to Elsa as she was on the human size berth with a few IV drips and a heart monitor system connected to her. The rest of the team and the human companions were at the side, with Jack still having that bandage around his forehead after the attack of Dreadwing while Miko having her foot exposed with bandages wrapped around her ankle during the attack of Airachnid, keeping close watch on Elsa. Ratch managed to weld the last of the cut Megatron administered on the side of Prime.

Ratchet: "There we go. Megatron certainly did a number on you. You're lucky that any closer would've gotten your spark. However, I suggest a little bed rest before I can put you back into the field."

Optimus gotten up and although a little woozy, he was still standing.

Optimus Prime: "Thank you old friend, you're expertise were very admirable."

Ratchet nodded and told him that it was all right.

Ratchet: "Someone has to keep you alive long enough to put an end to Megatron's reign. Though I wish I could say the same for our young friend."

The two then turned to human berth to see Elsa struggling to survive. Optimus nodded and knew this was grave.

Optimus Prime: "Elsa has proven worthy in the fight against the Decepticons. Though it would show that the fight cost her own life."

Ratchet: "She sacrificed her own life to save that of her superior officer. What a valiant effort she has performed. I just hope she would pull through."

Optimus Prime: "You and me both, Ratchet. Elsa is a strong and resilient girl, but nothing would survive a Dark Energon infection."

Down on the floor, John looked to his girl and had a worry look to his face. During that time in the mine, he was always worried about her taking on that Decepticon leader, yet she performed to the letter. But then when they left, Elsa pushed him out of the way, just for her to take the bullet for her handler. Looking at her body, he felt hopeless to save her. Her skin was sickly pale and her eyes were tight cause of the numbing pain she was suffering. But looking at her, he noticed that she was shedding tears down her cheeks. He had seen it before at the agency. Whenever the girls are asleep or put under during surgery, the girls always shed tears, mentally crying. Dr. Bianchi stated that it's sort of a side effect with the cybernetic girls. That these girls tend to cry when they went to sleep, preferably based around a dream or perhaps the past life they used to have before the conditioning. He knew it well, but he wished it was what she's going through. Ratchet then approached the wounded girl as John turned to the medic and asked about it.

John Darby: "Well doc, is there anything we can do to save my girl?"

Ratchet looked to him and shook his head in concern.

Ratchet: "Which I knew a way to save her, Mr. Darby, but there's no way. Dark Energon is the blood of Unicron the Destroyer, with the power to reanimate the dead of our Cybertronian brethren. Energon, in any other form mind you, could harm a human being in a few levels, depending on the power of them. Dark Energon is the worse of them all as it completely poisons the person's body, letting it deteriorate the person into a near death experience. This happened with Raf before and we nearly lost him."

June checked on her heart as she removed the earpieces of her heart-checking device and decided to give them some good news.

June: "Well, at least she's fairing better then Raf. I don't know much of what the doctors at the Agency does, but it would seem her cybernetic components are holding the infection back. Guess it's a bit of a miracle that her heart is still beating strong. However, that is the good news. Bad news is the infection is still spreading in a much slower pace. Even if her heart is strong, I could hear it getting fainter."

Ratchet turned to her and could tell that this type of news surprised him. Still, he was curious about the longevity of this infection.

Ratchet: "June, you are the medical expert in this. How long do you think she has until the infection is completed?"

June was very silent until she spoke about it.

June: "I don't really know. Judging by the progress of the Dark Energon, my guess would be a day, two if we're lucky. But I'm no expert in cybernetic technology like that of the S.W.A. Hell, I don't know much of Cybertronian medicine either. If Elsa is going to be saved, then she must be taken to the medical personal in Italy if they can help her."

John turned to his wife and was in a bit of shock.

John Darby: "June, even if I take her to Bianchi, you think he can figure out what's wrong with her and cure her? I don't think the medical team at the Agency knows about Dark Energon, or how to treat it. There's got to be some other way in saving my Elsa."

Optimus slowly approached the Darby and told him that it will be all right.

Optimus Prime: "Jonathan, I understand your concern with Elsa, as we all are. But we'll do everything in our power to save her. I won't let a human being become the first casualty of our Great War, especially if she's a cyborg."

John turned to the Autobot leader and demanded about that.

John Darby: "Then tell me… Tell me what we can do to save my Elsa. I would do anything to save her, ANYTHING! So if you know a way to save her, now would be a good time to share it."

There was a bit of silence within the group, as no one knew what they would say to him. As that silence echoed, Bumblebee thought of something and broke it.

Bumblebee: (Wait! What about we administer normal energon to cancel the Dark Energon infection? We did it when Raf was in that same predicament and it worked for the time. Perhaps it should work on her as well.)

Raf looked up to his friend and could tell he was right.

Raf: "You're right Bee. When I was infected with Dark Energon, you guys used normal energon to counter it and I was cured. If we can do it to her, then maybe she can be saved too."

The others turned to him and was right about it.

Jack: "You've made a really good point Raf. That counter with Bee's energon saved you, it could definitely save Elsa."

Ratchet rubbed his chin and could agree with them for once. But under one condition…

Ratchet: "Hmm… That seems like the straightforward option that we have. But there's a bit of a barrier that would block this path."

The others turned to him and was a little confused by what he said.

Bulkhead: "And why's that?"

The medic turned to them and explained the situation.

Ratchet: "Because Elsa is part cybernetic. Her body is comprised with components that are made of metal and synthetic tissue. Using normal energon to counter the blood of Unicron could work, yes, but then you have to think of the side effects when combining energon with cybernetic parts that are Earth made. It might give off some sort of serious altercation or worse."

John listened to all that and gave it a bit of thought. Hearing of a way, his first thought is that countering Dark Energon with regular energon would do the trick. But listening about the side effects, he got a little worried. Still, looking to his girl looking weak and prone on the berth, a part of that hope still glimmers. And unless there were any other options, he has to make that type of risk. Turning to the doctor, he told him to do it.

John Darby: "I say do it. If it means bringing Elsa back, then we should pull this off. Complications or not, I want her back. I'm not going to loose her just like how I lost my brother."

The doctor looked down to him and saw his eyes showing signs of determination. But he still needs to seek approval of the Autobot leader before he could make any decisions of this caliber. Turning to Optimus, the Prime listened to the claims and thoughts of others and came up with a wise option.

Optimus Prime: "Given the situation of Elsa de Sica, it would seem that we must make the risks necessary in saving her from crossing over. Ratchet, I do believe it's wise we must do this at all costs."

Ratch heard his words of reason and nodded in strong agreement. Turning to the others, he decided to start it off.

Ratchet: "All right, let us begin. Now, who wishes to donate some energon?"

Everyone looked at each other as they wondered who would go first. It was then that Arcee stepped in and decided to be the one.

Arcee: "I'll do it. I've been taking care of John's family for so long and she's part of it. Let me be the donor."

Ratchet looked to the femme and nodded in approval.

Ratchet: "Very well… Get on the chair over there for me to eject the energon out of you. Ms. and Mr. Darby, get Elsa into to healing chamber over there. Make it quick!"

John and June nodded in agreement as they quickly pushed the gurney with Elsa on it to the huge glass chamber. Arcee then headed to the metal chair close by and sat down, while Ratchet went to his cabinets and opened one of them up to show the injector and a jar that will fill up with energon. Approaching the femme, he started to insert the needle into her protoform skin with the jar connected to it and started to fill up with splashes of her energon until it is enough to save Elsa. The older Darbys moved Elsa into the chamber and stepped back at the glass door closes on her. Ratchet then approached the chamber and inserted the jar of energon on the side of the border to begin the administration. Approaching the console next to the chamber, and typed in a few quick key sequences as the process started. The energon in the jar started to drain and spread within the chamber. Once that happened the chamber started to glow a bright hue as it got brighter and brighter by the second. Everyone watched on in anticipation as the chamber glowed so bright, that they cannot see it. Almost immediately, there was a huge pulse as it felt like her body was jolted by a thousand volts. Soon that happened, the light faded and the chamber dimmed, ending the process. Once it was all over, John looked on in disbelief and rushed to her with worry eyes.

John Darby: "Elsa!"

Heading to the chamber, the glass doors opened up and he immediately went to her side. June and Ratchet soon followed after as they checked to see if the girl survived the risky operation. As soon as John reached her side, he check to see if she's all right.

John Darby: "Elsa? Elsa, are you all right? I'm me, John. Please speak to me!"

Still, he couldn't get a single response as Elsa was still out of it and was pale. Seeing her like this, he looked to Ratchet and demanded what happened.

John Darby: "I thought you said that this energon would counter the Dark Energon!"

The medic look down to him and told him it was true.

Ratchet: "Indeed it does. But this only happened once with Raf and we hadn't used this since. Not to mention that half of her body is cybernetic. There's no telling how it will react to the energon in her systems."

June checked the heart monitors and could tell there were positive results.

June: "Well, it would seem that she would make a fine recovery. Her heart motions are back to normal and her breathing is under regular levels. It would seem that she would survive. As far as her waking up… Well… I guess we have to wait and see how she feels."

John turned to his wife and nodded, understanding that she'll make it. But turning back to his girl, he was now worried as she was still in a sleepful state. The others soon gathered around the prone Elsa and were waiting to see if she would wake up. John, as the handler that he is, felt like what she's going though is because of him. It was him who listened to Jose's advice to return home with Elsa. He was the one that brought Elsa to Jasper to visit his family, only to find out that there's a war between two alien factions and his family and the others were a part of it. And now after what they've been through, Elsa hurt herself to save the Darby, only to pay the hefty price. Sulking his head in shame, he got to Elsa side and bent down on one knee, speaking to her, as she was awake.

John Darby: "Elsa, I'm so sorry. I didn't want this to happen to you. I didn't want any of this to happen at all. I suppose most of it is my fault after all. If I hadn't headed back home with you, then none of this wouldn't have happened. But when I saw my family after a long time, I knew that they were in good hands. At first I thought I would let you live a normal life out of the Agency, just like other girls. And when that horrific incident with Airachnid happened, I suppose I can't make you normal. I guess I can't change you because of this. And to that, I'm very thankful that you save my own life. Not matter what we've been through together; you will always be by my side till the very end. I'm truly sorry…"

He put his head down on the cot next to her and placed his hand over Elsa's opened palm. The others looked at the moment and felt very sorry for him. He had lost his brother, Kevin, from that explosion in Baghdad, he didn't want to loose Elsa. Now seeing her in this condition, he was more heart wrenched as ever. They could even hear John sobbing a little and wanted to comfort him in any way possible. As John was weeping, something amazing happened. Elsa's hand started to twitch as it slowly close around John's own. The moment he felt it her hand encircling his, he felt it and looked up to see her opening her eyes.

John Darby: "Elsa?"

Elsa's eyes opened partly as she looked to her handler and smiled at him.

Elsa de Sica: "Happy to be of service, sir."

John saw her awake and was relieved that she's going to survive. Seeing her waking up, he did the only thing he could think of, bringing the girl in for a warm and comforting hug. The others watched on and they too were happy to know that Elsa was going to make it through her recovery. John kept on hugging her with tears streaming down his cheeks, happy to see her up.

John Darby: "Oh Elsa, you had me so worried. I thought for certain that you were going to be a goner."

Elsa just accepted the hug and told John that he had nothing to worry about.

Elsa de Sica: "I was simply doing my job, sir. Megatron was about to fire on you. I had to make the right call in order to save you, even if it means sacrificing my own life. It is what I must do."

John let go of the hug and told her that she didn't really mean it.

John Darby: "That's not true, Elsa. You didn't really need to sacrifice your own life to save my own. I lost my own brother from an enemy many years ago. I didn't want you to suffer the same fate as him. Since we met, I knew there was a connection between the two of us. I believed that you were the one that made me heal from my lost. You were the light during the dark time and filled that void in my heart. As much as I know, you have given me a second chance in life. Kevin would be proud of you."

Elsa listened in and knew what he meant. She helped him through the tough times of loosing Kevin. After all the missions they've been through, all the turmoil they've succumbed, the sacrifices they've made. It was more then a little revenge of Kevin's loss, it was more of closure. Understanding it, she asked one more thing.

Elsa de Sica: "John, back at the mine, you were about to say something. You said to me that I'm more then an expandable soldier. Exactly what is that?"

John blinked and realized what she wanted to know. No way in avoiding it, he told her straight away.

John Darby: "That, Elsa, is that you are more then just a soldier or partner. See, what you truly are, is family."

Elsa looked to him with wide eyes and soon found out the answer. Looking up to the others, she could see the smiles on their faces to their friend. Everyone she see before her, Optimus Prime, Ratchet, Arcee, Bumblebee, Bulkhead, Jack, Raf, Miko, and June, are more then teammates and friends. They are what they truly are. She then looked back to her handler with a warm smile and said the one thing that was in her head.

Elsa de Sica: "Indeed… We are all truly family…"

To that, she did the very thing she would never do, hug her handler and accepted it. John was amazed at how much she had changed since the trip and didn't think nothing of it. So he embraced the hug and gave her and hug of his own. All of Team Prime looked to this moment and was enjoying the embrace between handler and girl. Or to be more precise, family members.

The following day was the day that they were leaving. In the base, John was with his Harley, making sure that he has everything he needed before getting back. Behind him, Team Prime and the human companions looked on with silent looks, knowing that he and Elsa are leaving today. Jack and Miko have already recovered as Jack now has bandage over the wound replaced with long strip around his face while Miko's ankle was feeling better and she can wear her boots again. Still, she needed to walk slowly until her foot gets fully recovered from the pain. As they were all watching him setting up to leave, Jack looked to his father and asked him something.

Jack: "Dad, are you sure you want to leave? I know you want to return to the Social Welfare Agency even after going through that Decepticon mess. Perhaps you should stay here for a little longer and relax after all that hard work and perhaps let Elsa make a fully recovery."

John turned to his son and told him it was unavoidable.

John Darby: "Sorry son, but I need to return to the Agency to be debriefed. They need to know about the mission and Elsa's attack and the like. Not to mention that I have to let them know that the Intel that the Decepticons took for them if safely secured. I just hope that Fowler can keep watch on the SWA's Intel, giving how big that is."

Optimus approached him, fully recovered from his injuries, and told him that it was all right.

Optimus Prime: "Do not worry Jonathan; Agent Fowler has connections with the higher ups. He'll pull through and send the Intel to his Unit: E facility, where it will be watched over and well protected. He always pulls through."

John nodded and as he finished setting his bike up to leave. June then approached her husband and was a little worried.

June: "So that's it? You're leaving again after that experience?"

John turned to his wife and nodded in agreement.

John Darby: "I'm afraid so. This was a bit of a visit after all and I'm glad that you and Jack are in good hands. Good metal hands that is."

He looked up to the team and smiled to them, knowing that they have protected them well. But then he turned to Optimus and asked for a quick favor.

John Darby: "Optimus, I would like to say thank you for watching out for them. With me gone for so long I always worry about how they would survive without me. Now that I've seen all of you looking out of them, I can tell that they are safe with you. Just promise me one thing though, that you will protect my family when I'm gone, not matter what."

Optimus heard that promise and knew that John's family is precious to him. So he nodded and kept that promise.

Optimus Prime: "Jonathan, we have been protecting your family ever since they've knew of our existence. They will be safe when you're gone. You have my word of it."

John smiled and was pleased that Optimus will keep his family protected. Just as he said that, he could hear Elsa's voice from the distance.

Elsa de Sica: "Sir."

John turned to the direction of the voice and saw Elsa standing there with Ratchet by his side. She had her bag on her back, as she was ready to go as well. The Darby look to her and was pleased that she recovered fast from the energon infusion to prevent the Dark Energon from spreading. Turning to Ratchet, he asked if she was ready to go.

John Darby: "Elsa's ready to go?"

Elsa was about to say something until Ratchet spoke on her behalf.

Ratchet: "I checked on her before your departure. Judging by her near death experience, the energon Arcee donated made her fit as the proverbial fiddle. Still, I am concerned about the energon entering her cybernetic systems in her body. So far no physical changes yet, but you may never know if something happens to her as the days progress. If there is anything in her body that would alter in anyway, let me know."

John nodded and could agree with him.

John Darby: "Of course Ratch. Though it might be impossible since Italy's phone line is a little expressive when contacting anyone in the states. But I'll try. C'mon Elsa, it's time to go."

The girl nodded as she approached her handler. But before she could leave, she turned to the others and decided to say her goodbyes to a selected few. Once of which was Arcee as she was the first that revealed her existence to her and John. Looking right up to her, she started to say her goodbyes.

Elsa de Sica: "So long Arcee. It's been nice fighting along side you."

The femme smiled down to her and was pleased with working with her for a while.

Arcee: "Same with you Elsa, you've certainly been tough against Airachnid. That Decepticon drill was a nice touch too. Now remember, I don't exist. Tell anyone about me, and I'll hunt you down."

Course that last bit was a little playing around as Arcee said it to Jack on the day he met her on accident. Elsa laughed a little and told her that it was all right.

Elsa de Sica: "Like anyone would believe me in robots that turn into vehicles. Don't worry; your secret is safe with me."

She then walked through the group and stopped to Miko who she beat in a video game bout and out pranking her as well. Then she protected her from the clutches of Airachnid as well."

Elsa de Sica: "So long Miko. You were a great opponent and good friend."

The Japanese exchange student just gave a sly grin and a cocky expression.

Miko: "Don't get your hopes up, Elsa. I'm thankful of your protection on me, but I'm not going to let you off so easy. Trust me, I will beat you in video games and I'll get back at you for pranking me with those phony spiders. Just you wait."

Elsa smirked to herself and was up for the challenge when she returns.

Elsa de Sica: "Oh, I would love to see you try."

As she was saying goodbye, Jack and June approached John and were in tears. John was going to leave them again. But at least they were happy to know that they've finally seen him after seven years of absence. And they knew that where he's going to go and relieved that he's not going leave for good. As they were near him, there were very quiet about this until June spoke up.

June: "So… This is it. You're leaving us again."

John sighed and decided to say his farewell once more.

John Darby: "Yeah, it is… But don't worry; it's not going to be forever this time. I promise you that I'll visit again, and this time, no more surprises."

June nodded and remembered what happened when he first met the Autobots. It was certainly an awkward and unexpected moment. But now that he knows about the truth, he's all right with that since he has his own secrets in the agency. The wife simply smiled as tears started to come down her cheeks. She then gave him a warm embracing hug and didn't feel like letting go.

June: "Oh John, it's been nice to finally see you again. And Jack was happy as well. It's difficult without you around after all this time. And now…"

John nodded and understands how she's feeling right now.

John Darby: "I know… At least you're in good hands. The Autobots have been protecting you and Jack for sometime. I'm certain that they'll always look out for you when I'm gone."

June listened in and understood what he meant by that. The Autobots have been taking good care of them, whether it be an attack by Airachnid or getting saved from an unexpected tornado. Letting go of the hug, she gave him one more promise.

June: "Just promise me you'll come back again."

John nodded and told her it would get a little complicated.

John Darby: "I'll try. With the agency a little on edge of what the Decepticons did, they would restrict some of the leaves. But I'll try to work around that."

June smiled widely and was pleased that John would try to come back. John then look down to his son and ruffed his hair up a little bit.

John Darby: "Well son, it looks like its time for me to go. Remember what I said the first time I left?"

Jack nodded and knew what he meant.

Jack: "Of course I remember dad. The same old routine; guard the house, guard mom. I've always been doing that since you left us. No pressure there."

John smiled and knew that his son would look after their home and June. Looking to his son, he could tell that he changed a lot.

John Darby: "Look at you, Jackie boy. You've changed… You've grown… You've certainly look like your old man. I knew damn well you're going to grow up to be like me. Guess I was right. You're certainly going to follow my footsteps one of these days."

Jack smirked to himself and decided to joke around over that.

Jack: "No problem, pops. Who knows, I might go to the Agency and have a little girl to teach and take care of myself."

John laughed it off a little and decided to not let him do that.

John Darby: "Don't push it, kiddo. But it seems that you like to follow your own path with that of the Autobots. Optimus told me that you've done a good job in rescuing him from amnesia and heading down to that planet of theirs to retrieve his memories. Took a lot of guts in going down there and took on that Insecticon single handedly."

Jack heard that and was shocked by what he said.

Jack: "Wait a second. You and Optimus were talking about me?"

John chuckled a little bit and told him straight away.

John Darby: "We had our little chats time to time during my stay here. He told me that you have some leadership skills in you and that your ingenuity and quick-thinking got you to where you are. I can tell that you made your old man proud. Maybe one day you might be a leader yourself."

Jack shrugged his shoulders and told him that it was nothing.

Jack: "Thanks dad, but I prefer to be who I am now."

John nodded and knew that it was going to be a long time before he can come down that path.

John Darby: "Whatever you say, Jackie boy. Whatever you say."

Once he said his goodbye, he heard Elsa approaching him.

Elsa de Sica: "John."

The Darby turned to the sound of her voice and saw her approaching his position.

Elsa de Sica: "I'm ready to go."

John nodded and decided to leave too.

John Darby: "You and me both, Elsa. Let's get going."

John and Elsa then walked to the motorcycle and were about to leave. But before they could get on, John came up with one more idea and turned to everyone looking at them leave.

John Darby: "Autobots, thanks for everything. If you didn't stop the Cons, I don't want to know what they would do with my girl or what happens if they succeeded."

The others were pleased with what they did for John as Optimus stepped in and told him that it was best they could do.

Optimus Prime: "Understand Jonathan that we must do what's best to protect this planet from the Decepticons wrath. We cannot let this planet fall like our own. And to that, we do what needs to be done to keep Earth safe from Megatron's reign. You have my word that we will protect your world and your family. That is a promise I intend to keep."

John smiled and was pleased with that.

John Darby: "I'm certain that you will. There is one more favor I need to ask you before we make our leave.

The Autobots looked at each other wondered what he wanted now. Optimus though was a little curious and asked away.

Optimus Prime: "But of course Mr. Darby. What is it that you want?"

It that when that John approached his Harley and digging into his bag form something he needed. When he pulled it out, the team noticed that it was a disposable camera filled with film. It was then that John asked a simple question.

John Darby: "Do you guys take group pictures?"

A day later, John and Elsa returned to Italy and back to the Social Welfare Agency. From there, John was sitting in Lorenzo's office with the head of Section 2 at the other side of the desk while Jean and Jose were between him. Lorenzo was asking him questions just to see if everything was handled.

Lorenzo: "Are you certain that our secrecy has been secured, John?"

The Darby nodded and let them know of the news.

John Darby: "Indeed it was, sir. The team in Jasper managed to break into enemy lines and held the terrorist group at bay. After that mess, they've managed to obtain the Intel the terrorists took from us and rescued my girl from near dissection."

Lorenzo listened to the whole story and nodded, knowing that his mission was successful, never the less. Still, there are some questions that need to be answered.

Lorenzo: "How is Elsa? I heard that she was fatally wounded at the end of the battle and was near death."

John Darby: "She's recovering well. She was given some special medicine to help cure her of her ailment the enemy administered and is walking on her own occurred. Of course, I need to keep a close watch on her as there could be some side effects with the medicine."

Lorenzo: "And the Intel these terrorists took from our database, where is it now?"

John Darby: "A friend of mine has it secured in a top secret facility in the military. It's under heavy surveillance and will be protected at all times."

The head of Section 2 thought this through and started to give his own opinion.

Lorenzo: "At least it's under good hands. Though I suggest that it should be taken to the agency and watched under our care. No disrespect with your friend, but I would advice that our Intel would be watched under our own staff."

John sighed to himself and told him that it was complicated.

John Darby: "Maybe… But the things that I've seen, I think it's best that it would be under the care of the American military then that of the Italy's. Rest assure, our secret is safe with them."

There was a bit of a silence within the group as Lorenzo gave it some deep thought. After a few short seconds, the head of Section 2 made his decision.

Lorenzo: "Very well, I'll leave the securing of the stolen Intel up to you. But this will be noted on your record."

John nodded and decided to give him something else.

John Darby: "I understand, sir. But before I go, I should give you something."

He then went into his pocket and pulled something out that could be of some use.

John Darby: "Here."

He tossed it to the desk as Lorenzo looked to it. What he saw is a flash drive with Cybertronian and Earthly software Ratchet and Raf made to help protect the servers.

Lorenzo: "What's this?"

John Darby: "Something a few friends of the team created to prevent this terrorist threat from breaking into the servers again. Uses a special type of technology to block off any virus from entering the system and performs continuous random password configuration so that no one would crack it. Trust me, it will come in real handy when it comes to another attempted breach."

Lorenzo looked to the drive and decided to follow his advice, giving this new threat is still out there.

Lorenzo: "Well, giving what just occurred, we can't take anymore chances. You and her girl did a good job to protecting our Agency, John. You two deserve a break from what you both been through. Why not go out to the country, enjoy the sights. You two really deserve a vacation after all of that."

John just simply lifted his hand up and shook his head to disagree.

John Darby: "Thanks of the offer, but tempting as it is, I was already on a vacation during that mission. Just a simple visit with my family and all. I'm just glad that I'm back to work. Let me know if there is a mission for Elsa and I and we'll handle it."

The head of Section 2 heard that and was quite surprised by that response. He didn't expect that they want to go on a mission right now after the experience they had. No way what happened in the states is far worse then that of the Republican Faction or the Padania. Could it? Regardless, he decided to let it slide and told him to leave.

Lorenzo: "But of course, John. We'll let you know when there's an assignment for the two of you. For now, return to your quarters and rest up. You are dismissed."

John smiled and got off his seat, giving his farewell.

John Darby: "Thank you, sir."

He then turned around and approached the door, leaving the office. Once he closed the door, Lorenzo looked on in intent and was curious.

Lorenzo: "How strange…"

Jose looked down to his boss and was wondering what he's thinking.

Jose: "What's strange?"

Lorenzo turned to him and answered his question.

Lorenzo: "That John wanted to go back to a mission even after the previous one that put our agency at risk. He's not even interested in another vacation after the previous one went downhill for him."

Jose shrugged his shoulders and gave his two cents.

Jose: "Well, he did went back to his hometown in the U.S. to visit his family. It's obvious his stay relaxed him for a bit, even after a traumatic experience he had been through. He's just glad that he got a chance seeing his family again after the lost of his brother. At least he found one bit of closure within him."

Lorenzo: "Perhaps you're right. But he left some things in his report that need to be answered. For example, he discussed about the terrorist, but never gave us the name, let alone the name of this team he encountered in his hometown. He even mention that Elsa was hurt and that this team have given her some special medicine to bring her back to shape, yet didn't give us the name of this drug or the risks of it, given we don't have permission to administer something like that."

Jose raised an eyebrow and knew what he was saying.

Jose: "You mean to tell me that John is hiding some secrets from the Agency."

Jean then turned to his brother and gave him a strong does of truth.

Jean: "Jose, this Agency is a secretive organization meant to handle Italy's terrorist threats. Yet the public only knows that we're a charity program to help give prosthetic to those in need a new life. What John said in his debriefing seems awfully suspicious. Leaving things out seems off, even for John."

Lorenzo: "Regardless, we cannot leave this unattended. We need to find out about this team and the terrorist threat John was speaking about. If this new threat to break into our system very easily, then the Social Welfare Agency would be looking at a threat far worse then that of the R.F. and Padania combined."

"What is a Fratello? It's an Italian word for siblings. That word is used in the Social Welfare Agency for a handler and his cybernetic girl. But what makes a Fratello special? Is it the drive? The will? The determination? When I sign up for the agency, I always thought that those were the qualities in making a fratello team. Guess I was wrong on that."

In the girl's dormitory of Section two, everyone in there was relieved that the crisis was adverted and they can finally go back to their missions. All the girls were sitting in the dining area having their lunch as they were talking about what they're going to do when they leave the Agency with their handlers. As they were discussing of their plans, someone walked into the room that they never expect coming. Henrietta spotted this girl coming in and was quiet surprised by this.

Henrietta: "Elsa?"

Soon enough, the rest of the girls turned to the entrance to the dining room and were in for quite a shock. There standing there was Elsa de Sica, looking to the girls with a smile on her face. The strangest part in all of this is that she never comes down to eat with the other girls. She always tends to eat by herself in her own room. Now, it would seem as if she changed her mind and wanted to mingle with them.

Elsa de Sica: "Good afternoon, girls."

She then walked to the table and sat between Henrietta and Triella. Getting her sandwich, a glass of juice, and an apple. Henrietta looked on in complete disbelief and couldn't believe what she was seeing.

Henrietta: "Elsa, you're eating with us? I thought you always prefer to eat alone."

Elsa looked to her and told her why she changed her mind.

Elsa de Sica: "I did. But then I thought, why have lunch all by yourself when you can just have lunch with your friends. Speaking of which, you've did pretty good back in Florence when you shot the police chief in the head, Henrietta. You and I, we make a pretty great team. Maybe we'll be on the next mission together one day, if it's all right with you."

The girls looked on and didn't know what to say. Elsa having lunch with them, making friends with them, complimenting them? She never did any of it ever. Triella decided to break it up and demanded answers in her playful way.

Triella: "Okay, spill. Who are you and what have you done with the real Elsa?"

The girl turned to her and told her the truth.

Elsa de Sica: "This is me, Triella. I'm still the same girl, but I'm now more friendly with all of you."

Triella: "And how could that be possible? No one goes from cold to warm-hearted in a number of days.

That's when Elsa smirked and gave her a bit of the story without revealing the Autobots existence.

Elsa de Sica: "Let's just say that the trip to John's hometown changed me in many ways."

"When I met Elsa, it seemed as though we share a lot in common, including loss. I've lost my brother, Kevin in that terrorist bombing in Baghdad while she lost her entire family in Catanian. Though her conditioning made her forget about that tragic event, I knew that she would be upset about it as well. We sort of clicked after a rocky start and we worked together for two years. But as I treated her like how the other handlers treated their girls. The part of me wanted to see about my wife and son and wanted to return to see if they are all right. By the time I return home, I was caught by the biggest surprise of my life."

In the handler section of the agency, John opened the door to his room and gave it a deep sigh.

John Darby: "That was a rough one, there. Thought that debrief would never end."

Closing the door behind him, he sat on his bed and was glad that he's back to the agency. Yet he felt even better knowing that he had finally met his family after years of absence. Yet, he didn't expect anything like the Autobots protecting them and a war that's been going on for eons. But it was something unavoidable as he and Elsa got dragged into. But at least they've managed to escape near death experience, especially Elsa being nearly poisoned by Dark Energon. Thankfully, everything was back to normal and Elsa's doing fine. Though he is a little worried about the side effects of the energon in her system. But he needs to wait and see of what changes would take place.

Deciding to let it slide, he looked to his nightstand where the pictures of his family and his brother with him in two separate portraits, but this time, there's a third. That third picture showed John and Elsa with Jack and June on one side and Raf and Miko on the other. But behind them were the Autobots as they agreed to take a picture with them for Elsa to add to her extended collection. It was a great moment as they had smiles on their faces and a few posed, such as Miko who did the double horns to emphasize her metal persona. John smiled and was happy that they accepted taking a picture with them, but only if he hid it from the others incase they come into the room. He of course agreed to it, as he will keep the Autobots a secret from the agency. Still, no matter what happened, that moment will be something he will keep for life.

"I never knew that my family would get drag into a centuries old war, let alone the existence of these Cybertronians pitting against each other for the future of our world. At first I was upset about all of this, but then, I knew that June and Jack are well protected. Soon enough, Elsa and I shared a strong bond with them and we had some good moments with Team Prime, especially Elsa when she sort of beaten Miko on video games and was smart enough to get by Miko's prank like traps. Not to mention I had some talk with Arcee as she lost her previous partner, sort of like when I lost my brother. Not to mention sharing my story about how Elsa and I met. Then there was the time when the Decepticons stole the Intel from the Social Welfare Agency and would use it to create their own cybernetic soldiers to attack human bases, or worse, attack a city from the inside. They even took Elsa and were about to dissect her to understand what makes her tick. Fortunately, we've managed to breach into the Decepticon warship and retrieve the Intel and save my girl. But as the final battle was over, Megatron decided to pull a fast one and tried to attack me with his blaster. Elsa managed to save my life, but she sacrificed herself and exposed her from the Dark Energon. We were lucky enough to save her as Arcee donated some of her energon and cancel out the dark substance, yet we don't know what side effects would happen with the cybernetic prosthetics in her system. Guess would have to wait and see."

In Elsa's room, Elsa was back to her room after having lunch with the other girls. She was cleaning her newly acquired rifle after Airachnid blasted the last one. Her room was much brighter now as she opened her window to let the sunshine brightening her room. But as she was cleaning, she stopped and looked to the photo placed on the desk, the very photo of John, his family, Jack's friends, and the Autobots John has. Just looking at the picture, made her smile with glee. She now got her photo that is memorable and she would keep it for all her life. No matter what the conditioning would do to her, no matter how much she will forget in the coming years, she will always remember that moment for life.

"At the end of the day, I've learned something very special during my time with the Autobots. Sure they are team; sure they came from different backgrounds. Yet they have one thing that they have in common. And Elsa and I, we're more then just a fratello, more then partners, more then a team. What we are is family and no matter the hardships we have, we will always be a family…"

As Elsa got back to cleaning her weapon, she started to get something in her eyes and rubbed a little. Her guess was that there was dust in her eyes and thought of cleaning her room later on. But as she opened them, something has changed. Her green irises have turned into light blue as they were glowing a bright hue, almost like they were that of the Autobots.

"No matter what."

The End

And so, we ended a great story of Transformers Prime: John and Elsa. Just as you can see at the end of the chapter, Elsa is going through the start of her changes. Can't reveal anymore of it, but you might know what's going to happen next. Still, stay tune for an episode of Transformers Prime: Season 3 where you will get your answer. And if you didn't read my own version of season 3, start reading episodes 1 to 3. The fourth episode would be about John and Elsa returning to the U.S. to get some answers about what happened to his family. Stay tune for that. Please Review.