"Thank you. You can retreat to your post." Optimus relieves Blaster escorting Megatron into the kitchen. The orange mech gave a short salute before heading out. The Autobot leader isn't shocked to see Megatron awake earlier than the rest of the team. At the same time, Megatron isn't entirely annoyed having to been surveilled and guided to the kitchen. It's wise that he isn't roaming the Autobot base freely. He has to commend Optimus for the security measure at the least.

Optimus faces his old friend and enemy, opening his mouth to say, "Would you care for some coffee? I've brewed some," which was not the type of greeting Megatron expected.

The Warlord, directed by a pointing finger, finds the cabinet that houses many cups and chooses one. He starts to pour the dark chocolate colored substance, breathing in the aroma. "You drink dark coffee?"

"I like the flavor." When he doesn't crave the strong taste, he dims it down with sugar-cubed size energon cubes. It adds a bit of savory sweetness that doesn't completely mask the enriching flavor. He watches Megatron sit in the chair across from him as the table in between them acts as a border.

"Never thought of you to care for the robust taste." The Decepticon leader takes a sip and then sets the mug down. "What purpose do you have to initiate such prattle?"

"I find it quite difficult to talk about anything serious before I finish a cup."

"The great Optimus Prime falling addictive to plain pleasures? What happened to your strong will, Prime?" the bigger man grunted, slightly amused.

"I find myself asking the same thing in the mornings," Optimus admits.

"Either way, It's foolish you would reveal a weakness to me. I was under the impression that Primes lack one."

"I never said it was a weakness." Even if the lack of coffee is Optimus' weakness, what is Megatron going to do? Eradicate the world's supply of coffee? "It's not vital as energon after all. How are your injuries?" Time to change the topic from self-incrimination.

"A blaster fire to the back isn't enough to cripple me, even in a weak techno-organic state." He remarked. Besides, he usually anticipates any blows to the back when having a conniving Second-In-Command such as Starscream. "The wound has closed if that's what you're asking. The only pain that remains is that accursed spider."

Might as well get down to business while on the matter. "While the stakes aren't as high as our last team up," referring to the Unicron incident, "It's paramount that not only Airachnid is brought down, but also that we get our original forms back. It's our best offer to set aside our differences to retrieve our original forms and defeat a common foe."

"I'm not in a position to decline this temporary unification. Afterall, I am in your base, sharing drinks and discussing business like high commanding officers."

Or like comrades, as Optimus wanted to say, having a deja vu moment. He wonders if Megatron feels the same, recalling back to when they were Orion and Megatronus. Those days are long gone in the past, but there is a hopeful desire that things could go back to the way it was.

Not letting himself reminisce in the past, he resumes. "It is without saying that we will be outnumbered and overpowered by Airachnid's insecticons and Silas. Bearing that in mind, if there is going to be battle, then we need everyone in optimal condition. I know of your recovery, but what about the condition of the rest of your team?"

Megatron takes a moment to mentally examine his crew. "Everyone is in a suitable battle condition. Soundwave's broken arm prevents him from fighting at his best, but it won't slow him down. His visor is fixed, therefore so are his connection to the Nemesis and Groundbridge. It will be easy to track its location."

"Then a stealth entry could be possible. The problem still remains on how to separate Airachnid from her insecticons." The last thing anyone needs is dealing with the humongous and carnivorous beetles.

"Not to mention Silas' immortality." Megatron brings up the other critical hazard.

"There is much to ponder. It would be best if we consult on the matter with the others to create a plan of attack. I believe we need everyone's collective knowledge in order to defeat this threat."

"Spoken like a team player, Optimus. I'm assuming this teamwork attitude of yours won't vanish once said threat is annihilated?"

Is it foolish to still hope that this common threat can once and for all unite Autobots and Deceptions? "You have my word of no deceit from my end, can I say the same for you? Afterall, both sides also do wish to have their forms restored again."

As if that question needed to be asked, Megatron scoffs, "As if I'd ruin a chance of restoration." For that, it's safe to say Megatron wouldn't dare risk stabbing the Autobots in the back.

"Admitting, having to take on a human life gives you a new perspective. Their strengths and weaknesses, capabilities."

Optimus isn't trying to convince him of valuing human life? How foolish. How bold. "I wouldn't say it's a great experience, more of an inconvenience." although, Megatron wouldn't admit some of the human luxurious he came accustomed too, especially a king-sized bed. "The only positive side is not having to waste energy as fuel consumption." In other words, he likes human food.

The prime would have gotten the same conclusion after seeing an empty coffee mug in Megatron's possession. "You may help yourself to more coffee."

The Warlord glances at his empty cup. When did he drink all of it? Getting up from the seat, Megatron fetches another serving of coffee. In the middle of it, he spots one of Prime's soldiers, Smokescreen, strolling in the kitchen, "Morning," There was only a brief hesitation upon seeing the leader of the Deceptions in the room. Nonetheless, the mech dawns a "#38 cook" apron that was hanging from a hook next to the fridge.

"Good morning, Smokescreen. I almost forgot it was Saturday." Megatron looks at Optimus, sending him a telepathic question through his rare confused gaze. "Smokescreen makes breakfast on these days."

"Do you want some pancakes, Megatron?" Smokescreen asks with a hint of uncertainty.

"No cinnamon in mine." Megatron goes back to drinking his coffee.

… … … … … … … … … … … … …

It is Bulkhead and Arcee's morning duty to wake up the resting Decepticons from their quarters. The only two in there was Breakdown and Starscream, so there shouldn't be issues getting them up. With an all but pleasing "Rise and shine" wake up call followed by hard knocks on the door, the men exited out of repose and into a state of reluctant compliance. They had to play nice and listen to the wardens for now, even though Starscream passes a sneer in Arcee's direction.

As the group silently herds along the base like a pack of ghosts, a delightful aroma dances on Bulkhead's nose. "Do I smell pancakes?" He beams, "Aw, yeah, Smokey Cake Saturday!" With a pure joyous exclamation, Bulkhead dashed, leaving the two Cons in utter confusion and Arcee alone with the confused duo.

Unfazed by the Wrecker's arrive, Smokescreen simply laughs, "Mornin' Bulk. I thought I heard a wrecking ball coming down the hall," dawning his apron that is powdered with flour as white as his hair. "I made your stack already. And preparing another one just in case it wasn't enough." He motions to the mountainous pile of mouthwatering Smokey Cakes on the kitchen table.

Without hesitation, the man in green drops himself onto a chair next to Bumblebee and picks up his tools of choice: a knife and a fork. "I didn't know you'd make 'em today."

"Unless I'm sick or dying, Smokey Cake Saturday will remain a tradition for years to come." Personally, Bulkhead thinks Smokescreen makes them in order to do cool pancake flips from the pan onto a plate.

"Those cooking lessons with June are really paying off." Bumblebee comments while spreading strawberry jam on his pancakes. "Maybe I should learn how to make something other than PB&H."

It's only a matter of time when the weight of Bulk's sins enter the kitchen. "'Hey, Arcee, can I leave you alone to watch after two Decepticons while I stuff my intakes? It's not like they can overpower you at any time.'" Arcee mocks Bulkhead's actions with an impersonation, "Wow, great plan, Bulkhead."

"Mm sorruh." Bulkhead's apologize seethes through a mouth full of pancakes.

"I'm sorrier for the crumbs stuck to your face."

"It's a good look on ya. Shows how really smart you are." Breakdown remarked.

Arcee turns on him. "And I don't need you adding to my quips."

"Ha! She told you."

"You neither." Arcee snaps back at Bulkhead.

"So Arcee, the usual three cakes with slice bananas dressed with chocolate syrup," Smokescreen finished up drizzling the syrup onto his food masterpiece and hands it to Arcee.

She takes the plate, "Thanks, Chef," and then sits at the table.

"That looks really good. I never had anything like that before." Breakdown is practically drooling. He hadn't realized how hungry he is until now. Looking back, the Decepticons didn't eat dinner the previous night. Something about being in physical pain really takes the mind off of a growling stomach.

Even knowing as such, a starving Breakdown doesn't get much sympathy from Arcee. "And I bet if you ask really nicely, you might get some that aren't from my plate." She directs his attention to Smokescreen.

From then, the Decepticon politely asked, "Can I have some, please?"

"Sure," The chef says casually as he proceeds to mix another batter. After all, having to serve pancakes to Megatron earlier, he's not phased by the request. "So, a question. What do you guys eat? Is there a kitchen on the Nemesis or do you eat out a lot?"

"We have a kitchen constructed." Breakdown answers, seeing no harm to cater to curiosity in exchange for being catered.

"Where do you guys get the money for that?" Bumblebee curiously asked while he reaches for the bottle of honey to pour on his pancakes, although Arcee pushes the bottles out of his reach. It's not as if these Decepticons have human day jobs.

"Underground fights." While it is a shame that he's not going to participate for a while, Breakdown isn't too bummed out about it since no fleshy has been a worthy opponent.

"Sounds legit and illegal." The flour-covered teen comments. "So, do you have anything against cinnamon?"

"Not at all." Not too long later, Breakdown receives his breakfast, "Thanks."

After some time passes, Starscream doesn't see any food in front of him. "Where's mine?"

Smokescreen responds, "Oh, I didn't know you wanted anything," as he pretended to be oblivious to Starscream's existence up until he spoke.

The lanky man crosses his arms with an equally crosses expression to match, "Well I want something to eat." He states in a matter of fact tone.

"I don't think I heard a please in that."

"Please." To beckon his call, Smokescreen tosses half an apple to the seeker. The other half of it was sliced for topping decorations. The occupants in the room, except Starscream, were trying their hardest to prevent their stifled chuckles from becoming full out laughter.

Smokescreen knows what he did was full out petty, but brilliant. "What? You said you wanted something to eat, right?"

"I want pancakes."

"We don't have pancakes here."

Is this brat really going to make him say it? "I would like Smokey Cakes, please." It took most all of Starscream's strength not to start an argument mainly because he is famished.

Smokescreen had already prepared a plate of Smokey Cakes in advance, so all he had to do is put them on a place and serve it to Starscream. Obviously, the SIC has to dress the meal with his own decorations like syrup. "Do I have to thank you too?" The receiver sneers.

"No. But, you know, basic gratification is great for me knowing that I'm appreciated." And it makes Starscreams look less of an aft if it's even possible for him. "And done. To perfection. A smiley blueberry for Chirpwing... who is now Laserbeak." The Autobots still aren't used to referring to Chirpwing's real identity. It is still a force of habit to make his breakfast like nothing has changed. "He's usually here with the other minicons by now."

"He's probably stuck to Soundwave now. That's what I saw in the main room anyway." Bumblebee mentions, failing to reach for the bottled honey. He pouts when Starscream ends up using it.

"Oh right. Well, I can't throw these away or take them to him at the moment. Would anyone mind taking these to Laserbeak?"

"Sure, I'll take it to him." Arcee volunteers, seeing no one else is willing or eager to do so. It's also an excuse for her to get close to Laserbeak ever since Soundwave regains parental control, making it extremely difficult for interactions without encountering any awkwardness.

"Great. And I can count on you to not to eat them there. Not calling out any names." Bulkhead is the name that Smokescreen is thinking of. "Wait, would I need to give Soundwave some? I don't even know what he likes."

"I'll be sure to ask for his top 10 favorite pancake toppings." Arcee exits the kitchen with the delivery in hand, "Oh, and you two," the femme pops her head back in, looking at Starscream and Breakdown, "make sure Bulkhead keeps an eye on you."

... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...

On second thought, approaching Laserbeak may not be the wisest choice. The sparkling is right where he belongs: nested in Soundwave's lap as Arcee witness once entering the main room. She stops next to Blaster who is on the terminals in Ratchet's place as the medic is currently dealing with Knock Out criticizing the lack of adequate medical tools and equipment. "Is it safe to approach the mama bird and his young?"

Blaster glances at his younger brother who isolated himself in a section of the room to play with his minicon. It's not as if he has anything better to do with his repaired visor other than monitoring the location of the Nemesis. "I would say so. He seems to be in a good mood."

"How can you tell?"

"Sibling instinct."

"Right. So where are your hatchlings?" It is rather odd to see neither Rosanna or Eject in proximately of their deployer.

"One is making sure Wheeljack doesn't blow up the base," Wheeljack is the opposite of happy when he found out the Cons are taking refuge at the base, "And the boy is hanging out with the resident vehicon."

While on the topic of the minicons, Arcee brings up a pretty obvious observation that was never brought up, "You ever notice that Rosanna acts weird around Wheeljack? I think she has a crush-crush on him."

"Nah. If that's the case, I'd tear apart Wheeljack's ship and figure out which spare parts to beat him with." And the award for the most casual threat goes to Blaster.

Arcee is taken aback by the casual display of violence from someone like him. "Is scraping up wreckers some type of family tradition?"

Blaster shrugs realizing that just maybe his threats were exaggerated or not exaggerated enough, "I blame the sire coding. Nothin' personal. When you get attached like that, you'd do crazy slag to make sure your charge stays safe."

As much as Arcee would entertain this line of conversation, the pancakes are getting cold. She steps towards Soundwave and Laserbeak. "I'm here on delivery."

Laserbeak drops his toy seeing the arrival of food. "Smokey Cakes?" He coos.

"That's right." Arcee drops down next to them, setting the dish in front of the bird child, waiting for him to eat. "What are you waiting for? I thought you liked blueberries. Nu-uh. We've been through this- you know how to feed yourself. Look, they are even in bite-sized pieces. Okay, one airplane landing, but that's it." After being persuaded by a sparkling to become a pilot of a doomed pancake vessel, Arcee turns her attention to Soundwave. She is surprised that he didn't try to stop her from interacting with his charge. "Oh. Smokescreen asked if you want some."

Soundwave paused, about to nod his head until he felt his sleeved softly tugged.

"Look!" The tiny bird sparkling holds a pancake in each hand. He raises the pancake in his left grip, "Sire," followed by raising the opposite one, "and Cee!".

"Okay. I didn't know I looked that much like a blueberry pancake, but continue." Arcee remains skeptical but allows the child to proceed.

What followed afterward was nothing spectacular. The minion presses the flat sides of the baked goods together. Receiving two sets of perplexed expressions, Laserbeak puckers his lips and goes, "Mwah!"

Arcee's face flushed, understanding what Laserbeak was insinuating by his food demonstration. Soundwave also felt a wave of shock. Even though he dawns his best poker face, it looked like he zoned out, trying to comprehend if this is a reality that his own minicon actually wants him and Arcee to-

"I'll leave you two to it." Arcee leaves in a hurry before the thought of her and Soundwave pressing lips enters her mind. It did. She walks away faster in a hurry. Ratchet and Knock Out paused their bickering only to see the aftermath of Arcee scurrying off.

As if the Decepticon TIC couldn't become more humiliated, Laserbeak presses the Arcee pancake to Soundwave's lips. "Mwah." The only thing that could make this worse if anyone else witnessed what Laserbeak did, he might actually offline due to embarrassment... Why is Blaster staring in his direction? What's with that stupid grin on his face?

Frag. The imminent danger alarm blares in Soundwave's head, as well as the actual alarms that set off when Fowler is arriving. Both of which are very headache inducingly loud. Before the liaison enters, most of the occupants awaits in the main room.

"I hope you bots appreciate the hoops I had to jump through to get these Cons a place in a government house." The day Fowler comes in to deliver good news like the government giving them a bigger spending allowance is the day that every Autobot wishes for, as well as having to not share living space with their enemies.

Knock Out grows a little suspicious and needed clarification, "Not a jail, right?"

"It came up as an option, but seeing that lunatic spider with a ship is a bigger threat than Megatron without one, we'll set our priorities accordingly."

Megatron takes a step, peering at the agent. "I hope you're not insinuating that I'm no threat without a warship in my possession?"

"And are you going to correct otherwise?" Megatron kept himself silent to prevent looking like a fool with an unrefined retort. It's in his best interest not to threaten him, so He'll let Fowler have the victory of being right. Starscream only dreams that he can have the power to shut Megatron's steel trap as such. "Anyway, we can relocate them there whenever you're ready. Don't enjoy the luxuries too long."

"You're not hungry then?" During the exchange, Breakdown arrived to Soundwave with smokey cakes in his possession only to have them rejected by the TIC. "Suit yourself."

"Are those Smokey Cakes? I'll take 'em." Breakdown shrugs, relinquishing the breakfast to the agent. "Blueberry, my favorite."

Jazz is surprised that Agent Fowler didn't smell the dish enter the room sooner.

I am tenfold sorry for the year-long wait... Truth be told, I kinda lost motivation writing this and adding onto my terrible writer's block and school... well... Yeah. My motivation is back! Again, thank you for your patience. Things are going to start moving up and only up from here on out.