Wing Shift

author: FireCracker
(Italic copy bordered by_underscore_)
Archive? You'd better.
Warnings: None really, at least not here. My Transformers are overall less blocky than the ones in G1, shaped more humanoid but still with plates. Makes for easier sex scenes to imagine. They can also reproduce via the spark principle, among compatible individuals. More on that later. And yeah, they have sex.


Skyfire has a major falling out with Optimus Prime. He leaves the autobots and learns his true heritage as decepticon. Starscream awaits, as do many others. (Blitzwing, Astrotrain, minicon Breaker, Thundercracker, Starscream, Skywarp, Octane) H/C,Yaoi


SPECIAL NOTE: Cybertronian terms for Parenthood: Pada (parent, non-birthing) Sana (birthing parent).

Scrambled Eggs


_Starscream felt pain like nothing he'd ever known. It had no beginning and no end, sharp and dull. He cursed himself, cursed Skyfire and cursed the existence of all things. Somewhere in the distance, he felt vibrations. Heard muffled voices. A strange sensation was inside his body._

/Something is tearing. No!/

/Starscream?/

/Get away from me! You've already messed up my bondmate. Stay away from my sparklings!/

A pause. /Fool. Your silly bondmate is sleeping on the floor./

/What? Why?! You've done something to him!/

/I've done nothing but step over his carcass. You're giving birth right now./

Starscream felt himself scream again. /Do something about this pain! I can't take it./

/You can and will. The babies are detaching from your spark, which is the burning sensation you feel./

/Don't drop them, Astrotrain!/

The seeker heard laughter in his mind. /I've done this more times than I can count. Now stop worrying./

Starscream felt a peculiar coolness sweep through his body, reducing the pain to manageable levels. A warm, throbbing vibration echoed through his mainframe.

"Octane, hand Blitzwing one of those towels. I've got the first one."

"On it."

Blitzwing spread out the towel. Astrotrain gently laid the first egg inside. The decepticon tank grinned briefly before drying it off carefully.

"Hmm, this brings back memories."

Octane peered at the egg. "Nice. How's the other one coming, Astro?"

Astrotrain stared into blue glare. "A little tight, but I can ease it out." Ion charges danced from his fingertips.

Breaker rolled up on the bed. "Is good! Breaker have new job, watch babies."

Astrotrain reached deep inside Starscream's spark. "Can you hear me, Starscream?"

The nearly unconscious seeker grunted. "Hunh."

/The second egg was impacted a little. But I'm getting it out now./

"Im...pact..."

"Never mind." Astrotrain lifted the second egg out slowly. Blitzwing blotted it gently before placing it in the crib. He immediately checked the temperature controls.

Breaker transformed and peeped inside the crib. "Eggs perfect. Must keep warm!"

Blitzwing nodded. "I'll go for the moderate setting until their shells harden a bit."

Astrotrain wiped his hands on another towel. "Octane, could you help me clean up here? Starscream's all wet."

Octane chuckled. "Yeah, he's _always_ all wet." the tanker grabbed more towels and started scrubbing the seeker down.

Blitzwing watched Starscream sleep. "Astrotrain, I see a small amount of infection in his spark casing. Use the antiseptic zinc patches."

Astrotrain frowned. "Hmm. Probably where the second egg was impacted." he swabbed with delicate strokes.

Octane kept cleaning arms and legs. "You missed your calling, Astro. Maybe you should be a tech surgeon."

The train quirked a grin. "Contrary to popular belief, I don't destroy everything I touch."

"Your reputation precedes you." Blitzwing smiled, looking about the room. "Our future commanders are quite incapacitated, don't you think?"

Octane glanced briefly over at Breaker, who stood over Skyfire waving a towel.

"Heh. I don't think that's going to work, little buddy."

The minicon kept fanning over the unconscious jet. "Was overcome by birth. Not sense enough to block bond!"

Astrotrain didn't turn from his ministrations. "Like I said, I knew that would happen. Young fools always keep the channel open! They don't realize your mind can be vulnerable."

"Cut him a break, Astro. He's never had a major bond besides Starscream." Octane dropped towels down a side chute. "He's sophisticated, but still young."

Blitzwing eased thick blankets over the eggs. "I'll leave the crib near the bed. Starscream will want to see them when he wakes."

Astrotrain gestured, closing Starscream's spark chamber. "He'll be fine with rest. The twins took more from his systems than I thought."

Blitzwing moved to his side. "True. Seekers have high metabolisms, but their reserves are only average."

Octane walked around Skyfire again. "I guess we're finished here. I definitely need to check on Shrapnel."

Blitzwing agreed. "Good idea. Come on, let's head back."

Breaker transformed and hopped up on Octane. "Sky still sleep. Will take awhile, bond shock."

Astrotrain glanced down at the jet. "He makes nice table, don't you think?"

Raucous laughter. Stepping over Skyfire once again, the triples made their exit in silence.

()

Megatron hummed and giggled to himself. He'd been quite busy since running away from Soundwave. Hiding in a little used storage area, he'd managed to gather some fun things. Paint brushes and cans of pigment sat everywhere on the floor.

"Let's see...I'll use some of this, and some of that. These colors are prettiest, so they go out first!"

He held up the brushes and examined them carefully. "Oooo. I can make lots of pictures with these. And I know where to start! But first I need something to carry the colors in." he briefly rummaged through various storage containers. Eventually he found an expandable bag.

"Now this is nice. I can add colors, and make the base pretty. Or make stuff for everyone to read. So much to do, so little time!"

The addle brained decepticon filled the bag with paint supplies before skipping out.

()

The triplechangers made their way to the east side of the base. Thundercracker was running in the halls erratically, shouting and waving his arms.

Octane noticed first. "What's with him?"

Astrotrain likewise stared as the blue seeker ran their way. "One guess, Octane-"

"Thank Unicron I ran into you guys!" the excited Thundercracker shouted. "Finding help this cycle is impossible."

Blitzwing was hesitant. "Well, everyone's been busy-"

The seeker shook him. "You've got to help! _I think Skywarp's dying!!"_

"What?!" they all shouted.

Thundercracker was waving again. "He's burst. I don't know what to do. _Somebody boil hot oil!"_

The triples cracked up. Breaker beeped wildly. "Thundercracker crazy. Skywarp not die!"

"There's stuff coming out everywhere, for pit's sake." the agitated seeker waved again. "Someone has to do something!"

"He's about to give birth, that's all." Blitzwing explained. "What happened is perfectly normal. Why aren't you with him?"

Thundercracker tugged at his arm. "I was. Look, can you guys help? Skywarp's in pain, and I-"

"Yeah we know, wind down." Octane waved it off. He smirked at Astrotrain. "Round _two,_ anyone?"

Astrotrain groaned and covered his optics.

()

Starscream opened his optics a crack. His vision was slightly blurry in the dim lighting.

/What happened?/

He shifted slightly under a mesh blanket. Turning his head carefully, he felt a pop from protesting neck cables. Another small movement caused throbbing in his joints. Easing up awkwardly, he realized how sore and stiff his mainframe was.

And then he saw the crib.

/Can it be? Yes!!/

Flaming optics went round as plates. Cradled safely in the crib were two perfectly formed eggs. Layered thermal blankets wrapped their forms.

Starscream had to shout. _"My babies!!"_ his voice sounded cracked and strange.

"Hnn...huhh."

"What?" perplexed, Starscream stared across the room. He noticed his bondmate lying on the floor for the first time.

"What in Cybertron?"

"Starscream." the deep voice was rough as Skyfire came online. His optics flickered erratically. "What's going on?"

A squeal. "How should I know? Get up off the floor, we're _parents!"_

"What. Parents?!" crystal blue optics flared brilliantly as Skyfire sat up. He stared in awe at the crib.

_"Starscream..."_

The seeker held his hand out invitingly. "Come _here,_ you big oaf. Look at our eggs!"

Skyfire split a huge grin. In one swift motion he was at the bed. Brawny arms cradled the smaller mech, shielding him in warmth.

"Beautiful!" he kissed his seeker all over.

Starscream giggled under the affectionate assault. "I suppose this makes it all worth it. Doesn't it feel amazing?"

Skyfire pressed their heads together. "Words can't describe, Star. My spark...I feel so _warm."_

Starscream nuzzled back, his optics nearly closed. "Me too. Not burning like before. This is...good."

White fingers traced red wings gently. "I want you to rest. Let me do everything."

A raspy snicker. "Well, a second in command can't go into stasis. But I'll take your offer into consideration."

They kissed again and watched the crib.

"How long will it be before they hatch, you suppose?" Starscream wondered.

Skyfire rested his chin over Starscream's helmet. "I have no idea. In all the excitement I forgot to ask."

"Hmm." Starscream molded against his bondmate. "Interesting, I sense their energy signature already."

"I guess sparklings transmit once they're born." Skyfire speculated. "It's a good thing, though. Prevents a lot of confusion in case of accidents."

Starscream vibrated, soaking up Skyfire's heat. "I suppose that happened in ancient times when sparking was common. In any case, _our_ eggs are perfect. I seriously doubt anyone else has a hatch of such quality."

The deep voice rumbled in amusement. "I know we discussed this before, but how do you suppose they'll look?"

Starscream observed the eggs. "Hard to say. They should end up with good size, though. Our colors and configurations are compatible, so I expect excellent mainframes."

White arms wrapped Starscream tightly. "Think it's safe to hold them?"

"I don't see why not. Reach over and hand me one, Sky."

Skyfire did so, palming the egg gently. Starscream practically lit up when he cradled it. Skyfire rolled out the second one. For a few moments both parents just experienced the feeling in silence.

Starscream glanced down at the hatch they held. "I'm still nearly speechless, Sky. This isn't war or the decepticon cause. Up until now I'd never known anything else, but this is _different."_

"I know what you mean." Skyfire likewise gazed at their brood. "It's like a new dimension to our existence. Not just function, or a cause. This is our own moment of _history._ One that you and I share together."

Starscream nodded. "I guess I never looked at it that way." sleek fingers traced along curved seams tenderly. "Their plating is so soft, almost flexible."

Skyfire ran fingers over the eggs next. "Young hulls. Although these are just the outer shells. Remarkable, they feel warm and oily."

"Blitzwing informed me of that."

An awkward silence intruded on the mood. "Star. About the things I said earlier..."

Starscream touched fingers to white lip components. "It doesn't matter anymore, Sky. None of it. I have no illusions about the triplechangers. I was angry because you accepted your nature too quickly. I wanted everything to unfold a certain way."

"But why?" Skyfire didn't understand. "What difference would it have made?"

Starscream managed a shrug. "Ego, I guess. I had hoped you would realize that potential under my tutelage. After all, I _am_ your bondmate. Instead, the triplechangers guided you along first."

Skyfire stared off into space. "Is that what this was alll about? Simple jealousy?"

"I would say resentment, but I owe them too much. And now it appears as if the debt has increased."

"I'm not some shaking sparkling who needs to be led and held, Starscream."

The seeker chuckled softly at the mental image. "You? Hell, no."

"For the record, I warned the triplechangers to back off several times."

Starscream tilted his face up a little. "Did it get you anywhere?"

Skyfire traced one of the eggs again. "I'm not sure. They know not to push it, and yet..."

"Yet, they remain smug and confident."

"Yes."

Starscream sighed. "Unfortunately my experience with them didn't help you any."

"The situations were different."

"Not entirely, as you discovered in the cave. Over the years I've developed a few theories about them."

Skyfire snuggled again, deep in thought. "They're insane, but not in a damaged way. It's as if their programming is designed to be chaotic and disordered. And I don't mean the standard decepticon issue."

Starscream stretched against his razer. "Hmm. From a strictly scientific angle, I'd love to dissect their brains. Remember, they've been online a long time. The version we see now may not be the earlier one."

Skyfire quirked a smile. "You're thinking the same thing I am. That there's a reason they seem to have such unusual talents."

"On the order of mystical, Skyfire. The autobots have triplechangers. Others exist in the decepticon ranks. I've known many over the years, and _none_ of them have abilities like those three. The question is, why?"

"I have a theory of my own, but you might think I'm crazy."

Starscream giggled. "This is a crazy conversation to have while we're holding eggs."

Skyfire gently kissed one. "I don't think our children will mind. Besides, it's nice to be in science mode with you. Reminds me of the good times long ago."

Crimson optics glowed gently. "Those _were_ good times, Sky. But things are even better now!"

"True. The future is ours, Star. To do with as we will."

"Yes...which once again, brings us back to our favorite decepticons."

"Living on Kaos 3 might be the stable option, Star. At least temporarily."

"I was thinking the same thing. It could be a sizeable colony if we play our hand right."

"Our sparklings will need the benefits of such a lifestyle. I don't want their development stunted."

"Of course not, we'll have to do right by them. A stimulating environment is essential for any decepticon. Especially young ones."

Skyfire eased back a bit, cradling his seeker. The eggs were secure in Starscream's arms.

"Interested in hearing my theory about the triplechangers now?"

Sleek hands patted the eggs absently. "Yes, tell me your thoughts. Who knows, between the two of us we might make sense of those three. Actually four, including Breaker."

"That's a story for _another_ cycle. Here's what I'm thinking. I told you before they remind me of a replicating system error that forms it's own virus."

"Or maybe the other way around."

"Possibly. On a personal level they're often impossible. But scientifically? They're amazing."

"Not to mention complex." Starscream shifted. "You never know whether to kiss them or kill them."

Skyfire nodded. "Precisely. It's in tune with their erratic nature. Loyalty one astrosecond, treachery the next."

"Yes. Treachery is merely a tactic most decepticons use, especially ambitious ones. But it doesn't seem to be personal with them. It's what they _do."_

"They're very old, Starscream. But the interesting thing is, their _configurations_ aren't old. They could easily pass for much later edition transformers."

The idea surprised Starscream. "You're right, Sky! In my youth I remember many transformers who had the classic styling. Cybertron's New Wave Military called them 'Chrones.' "

Skyfire grinned. "A sign of the times, Star."

"No doubt. I met Blitzwing and Astrotrain during the Gesden Wars, and they weren't new even then. I didn't pick up on it until they told me about ancient Cybertron."

"The next question is, how old _are_ they? Breaker tells me they predate Soundwave and the Constructicons."

Starscream turned on his side and gently placed the eggs in the crib. "They predate everybody I can think of, even BlackBolt. On the other hand, he might know something we don't. It couldn't hurt to ask when we meet."

"Good foresight, Starscream. It's too bad we can't ask the triplechangers directly for answers."

Starscream huffed. "You _could,_ but it would be a waste of time. They seem to love mystery and suspense."

Skyfire noticed the eggs. "Maybe we should adjust the temperature controls. They're on the low side."

"Not to worry." Starscream sat up and fiddled with the dials. He daintily arranged the blankets around the eggs, making a cocoon.

A happy giggle. "They're so _perfect,_ Sky. Not a flaw anywhere, just beautifully symmetrical."

Skyfire sighed in bliss, gathering his seeker up. "Come here, you." more kissing. They rolled around on the bed a bit.

"Easy, Sky. I'm terribly sore."

"Forgive me, Star. It's been awhile."

The seeker lay quietly and gazed up. "At least I have something of a shape now. But I'm still warped out of prime condition."

Skyfire stroked him gently. "That's to be expected, don't you think? Give it time, you'll be back to normal before you know it."

A raspy snicker. "Anything is better than blimp city."

Skyfire smiled down at his bondmate. He tickled a shiny nose. "Fat or thin, you're still sexy. Am I allowed to call you beautiful now?"

The seeker grinned, optics aglow. "Say it as much as you like. It's all true, you know."

"Now _that's_ my Starscream." Skyfire dove into a kiss. And another. Starscream lost count after the third one.

They untangled much later. Skyfire angled underneath his seeker, making himself a living mattress. Starscream pulled the blankets over them both, nestling in.

"Mmm. This feels nice, Sky. Your solar panels retain a good deal of heat, even indoors."

Brawny arms wrapped Starscream under the covers. "My electrocells keep a low charge for some time. I'm surprised you didn't notice that before."

The bleary Starscream flicked a wing. "Oh, well. Maybe I'm more sensitive to temperatures right now."

"You should enter rest mode, Star. Your systems are nearly depleted."

"I would, but I'm too tired to sleep. Talk to me some more, Sky."

Skyfire nuzzled. "Any topic in particular?"

"Just one. I want you to understand where I'm coming from regarding the triplechangers."

"I know you owe them a lot, Star. As do I."

"I might not be here right now if it weren't for them."

Skyfire was alarmed at the tone. "What are you saying?!"

Crimson optics dimmed. "Some of my anger and resentment comes from the past. They saw me at my weakest, most vulnerable time."

"Everyone has low points in life, Star. You said they took you in."

"I had mixed feelings initially. I was alone and didn't want any entanglements. But they saw right through me."

"How?"

"After I'd lost you, I really didn't care about anything. My mainframe was chipped, my hull worn and dull. I even cracked an optic once."

Skyfire stared in horror. "I wish I'd been there for you!"

"It doesn't matter now, Sky. I was different then, impressionable. I couldn't believe our world was destroyed by war. Everyone we knew was either dead or missing. I felt cold-"

"I don't want you talking like this, Starscream. Especially now."

The seeker glanced at the crib. "I'm in a strange mood, what can I say. But you need to hear this. I was perfectly willing to offline myself permanently. Blitzwing stopped me."

A gasp. "I...never realized..."

"They found me at some raggedy spaceport, I don't even remember where now. Anyway, they talked with me awhile and offered a place to stay. I was at loose ends, so I accepted."

"You had no idea what you were getting into."

"At the time no, but it hardly mattered. It was then that I found out about their special abilities. They took me home and healed me. I couldn't believe it, it was like I was newly minted. And my spark was warm again. In time, I learned to trust them. They touched me, and I wanted to live."

"You don't have to paint me a picture." Skyfire's tone had an edge.

Starscream smiled vaguely. "Don't go all primitive on me, Sky. We separated after some time, not knowing if we'd ever meet again. Vorns later our paths crossed when Megatron rose to power."

"Let me guess, you had a reunion party."

A giggle. "Testy, aren't we? Actually, it was awkward. I was older, more hardened. And resentful of the debt I still owed."

"How'd they take that?"

"Remarkably well. In fact, I think they were expecting it. But I never shook the feeling they had something on me. Not until..."

Skyfire noticed his bondmate seemed distant all of a sudden. "Star!"

"Excuse me, Sky. I was having a moment there."

"I really don't think delving in the past like this does any good."

"I have my reasons. We need to air this out, Skyfire. It's the only way to move forward if we're to live on Kaos 3."

"I see your point. That doesn't mean I have to like it."

Starscream grinned before continuing. "As it turns out, my instincts warned me well. Not that it mattered. They snared me like a morphobot in heat. And before long, things got hot and heavy again."

Skyfire was very still. "Like the incident in the cave with us both."

Starscream nodded slowly. "My spark was on fire, and I couldn't think straight. Eventually things calmed down once more. I was so angry about the situation they backed off. Later they seemed to make some decision about me, because things cooled off. I was totally confused and frustrated."

Crystal blue optics flared. "Now I understand why you acted the way you did when they deceived me."

"It wouldn't be so bad if I knew what to expect. History was practically repeating itself before my optics. Granted, you weren't as vulnerable but I saw areas they would exploit."

Skyfire's optics narrowed. _"What_ areas?"

"Your confusion and identity crisis. They wanted to entrance you."

"At first I thought it was just a sex thing, Star. Now...I'm not so sure."

So engrossed in conversation were the two they never noticed a familiar shape rolling into the room.

"Happy celebration to you! Baby decepticons, good deal."

Surprised, they sat up in bed. "Breaker?" Starscream asked, staring in the dim lighting.

"Is so." Breaker briefly stopped by the crib before rolling up on the bed. He eased forward and squeezed between the two larger bots.

"Eggs perfect."

Skyfire chuckled. "You weren't eavesdropping?"

The sphere beeped. "Not need. Know conversation, heard concerns before."

Starscream eyed the minicon. "By all means, make yourself comfortable."

Breaker vibrated. "Good spot, fine location. Warm."

Skyfire and Starscream sat up, giving Breaker a nook to sit in. He transformed to bot mode.

Starscream stared down in amusement. "What happened to everyone? By the time I woke, the eggs were hatched and Skyfire was on the floor."

Breaker glanced up at them both. "Astrotrain deliver eggs, Blitzwing help. Big Sky faint when see birth."

Starscream cocked an optic at his bondmate. "You are _such_ a wimp."

Skyfire flushed. "It just happened, that's all."

Breaker giggled. "Was funny. Octane not have time to calm. Big Sky holler, then hit floor. Shake whole room!"

Starscream cracked up. "That must have been the vibration I felt! I thought I was dreaming."

"Oh, shut up." Skyfire groused. "It wasn't _that_ big a deal!"

"No? You should have seen yourself. I thought you made a halfway decent door stop!"

Skyfire sniffed. "You're a regular comedian, Starscream. Now cut me some slack!"

The seeker tickled his vents playfully. "Stop being so sour. I was only teasing."

Breaker nodded in approval. "Good parents. Did say so before."

Skyfire grinned. "We have your approval, I take it."

A beep. "Highest rating. Sparklings fine, future good."

Starscream eased back against the pillows. "Speaking of the future, Breaker. What can you tell us about Kaos 3?"

"Said before."

"Tell us something you _didn't_ say. It's important."

When Breaker stared in confusion, Skyfire explained. "Things are a bit different now, Breaker. We've been offered a home there."

Red visiors flashed brightly. _"Good terms!_ Can tell more now. Best news ever!"

"Don't get carried away." Starscream pointed. "We're only considering the move, not committing to it."

"Take position, or Breaker not explain."

"Stubborn minicon. Let's just say the idea is under strong consideration. We'll need a home once Megatron is overthrown."

"Makes sense. Kaos 3 good start point. Good for sparklings!"

"That was discussed also. Our new regime will need time to get established."

"Good basis on Kaos 3."

Skyfire put an arm around his seeker. "The other decepticons, we know. Is there anyone else who lives there?"

"None stay permanent. Provide place for renegades and outcasts. Must reciprocate."

"I'm not sure what you mean."

Breaker beeped impatiently. "Inspire loyalty by security. Service needed later! Accquire many associates over time."

Starscream lay against his bondmate. "If I'm to understand all that, you're saying that sanctuary is provided for service."

"Is so. Many can rely on. Fully functional place! Is copy Cybertron."

"A planetoid?"

"Altered over time. Appear on surface barren. Only towers visible. Main city below, underground. Security."

"Incredible." Skyfire was thinking. "So in case of attack, Kaos 3 is basically a glorified bunker."

Breaker nodded. "Trick enemies. Many places to hide. Others have powers, and-" the minicon covered his mouth suddenly.

"Wait, what was that?" Starscream poked him.

"Is nothing."

"No, you mentioned the others had 'powers'. You mean conventional talents?"

"Right!"

Crimson optics narrrowed. "I don't believe you for one astrosecond. These renegade decepticons. They have strange powers?"

Breaker was silent momentarily. "Decision made."

Skyfire stared, not understanding. "Breaker? What decision?"

Small visiors flashed then dimmed. "Breaker trust, since oath made. Will reveal some."

"You have something to tell us?"

The minicon pointed. "Is true, Kaos 3 residents have special ability. Not specify right now. Are loyal to those devoted."

"This is worse than cracking code." Starscream complained. "I was just beginning to trust you all."

"Can trust! Made oath. Will serve new regime! Agreement made."

Skyfire rubbed his chinplate. "That's good to know, Breaker. Still...what caused this change? We just assumed you and the others had a hidden agenda."

"Not hidden, plain sight. All triplechangers meet and agree! Skyfire and Starscream best commanders. Will follow, not question."

Starscream was stunned. "I must say...this is amazing news."

The minicon puffed his chestplate. "Will be council to commanders! Others form inner circle."

"I am not ungrateful, Breaker. All debts will be honored."

Breaker snuggled in tightly. "Is good hear. Much maturity now. But both rest, Breaker watch babies."

Starscream groaned, his optics dull. "I've never been so sore. My whole mainframe feels twisted and bent."

Breaker patted his cockpit. "Need rest, recover. Birth stress components."

The seeker relaxed in Skyfire's embrace. "Truer...words...were never...spoken..." he was out.

Skyfire held Starscream tightly. "Thanks, Breaker. For everything."

The minicon nodded. "Make perfect couple. Not forget!"

()

A weary but happy Skywarp sat quietly in bed while his bondmate fussed. Thundercracker had wrapped the purple seeker in several blankets.

Sleek black hands patted Skywarp down. "Now stay warm. I'll take care of everything."

Skywarp giggled, feeling silly and lightheaded. "I'm warm inside and out."

The triplechangers were cleaning up nearby. Octane glanced over while bagging soiled cloths. "It's a miracle he can even see anything, Thundercracker. Didn't you overdo it with the blankets?"

The blue seeker kept smiling. "Who cares, Octane? Our daughter is here!" he nodded at the crib. A shining egg was tucked neatly under the canopy.

Astrotrain approached the happy seekers. "The first one is always a unique experience. How does it feel?"

Thundercracker sat next to Skywarp on the bed. "Remarkable. I can't believe this is all real!"

Skywarp had a different answer. "Offhand, I'd say _painful."_ he split a grin. "All that for one egg?"

Blitzwing chuckled. "An unavoidable consequence, I'm afraid. Congratulations to both of you."

Thundercracker shook their hands in turn. "We owe you, big time."

Skywarp nodded from his cocoon of wrapping. "You name the favor."

Astrotrain cocked his head slightly. "After you've gotten some rest and settled in, come by and visit. There is much to discuss involving the future."

"New developments?" Skywarp asked.

"Of a sort." Blitzwing answered. "You'll need a permanent home eventually, and we have an offer. But such discussion can wait for now."

Skywarp felt his optics closing. "I'm so stiff I can barely talk. Everything hurts."

Blitzwing cracked up. "You should be warm enough under all those blankets. Give your systems time to recharge and repair."

The purple seeker rested against his bondmate. He was barely visible beneath layers of thick wrapping. "Thanks again to all of you. Maybe after the sparklings hatch we can have a party!"

"Sounds like a good idea." Astrotrain agreed. "Meanwhile, spend some quality time. I have a feeling this quiet won't last long."

Thundercracker snuggled against the bundled Skywarp. "What makes you say that? The whole base is on standby right now."

Astrotrain shrugged. "Only until Soundwave finishes his hatch. Remember, Megatron is still on the loose. Eventually he'll have to be dealt with."

Thundercracker was indifferent. "Who cares? _My_ family is here." he nuzzled Skywarp.

Octane snickered. "Come on, let's leave the lovebots to their nest. It's been a busy cycle."

Blitzwing headed to the doors. "At this rate we'll have to charge a doctor's fee."

()

Skyfire drifted in and out of rest mode, his spark at peace. Starscream was smiling in sleep, curled up at his side. Skyfire adjusted the blankets for more comfort. A quick glance nearby noted a third shape nestled securely with the eggs. Breaker was positioned cozily between the sparklings in sphere mode.

Eventually Starscream shifted a bit, his optics dull as they opened slightly. "Skyfire? Did the babies hatch yet?"

The deep voice chuckled. "Not yet. Although I suspect Breaker will let us know of any change." he nodded at the crib.

"Oh?" Starscream angled to see. He cackled at seeing Breaker in the crib. "For a minute there I thought we had _three_ eggs!"

"Not so." Breaker beeped quietly. "Starscream happy, Breaker not mind if silly. Eggs warm."

"That's good, then. I wasn't sure if we'd need to adjust the temperatures."

Breaker hummed. "Not worry. Breaker good, can warm personally."

Skyfire was curious about something. "Breaker, how long does it normally take for sparklings to hatch? That's the one thing no one ever explained."

"Hatch vary. "Even same parents, eggs different."

"Does it depend on my overall health?" Starscream wondered.

"Not." Breaker quipped. "Is different, not situation like gestation. Often eggs hatch early. Still healthy, need more time."

"How much time are we talking about here?" Skyfire was surprised.

The sphere vibrated briefly. "Can be 3 breems or 20. Most hatch by 11."

Starscream edged up at that. "What? I'll never last that long waiting!"

Breaker beeped in amusement. "Sparkling choose time. Eggs heavy, solid. Good omen! Means sparklings developed well."

Starscream eased back at that. "Well, that's some comfort. But even with rotational duty, there's no way we can watch them all the time."

"Perfect job for Breaker, can watch. Security and safety! Babies hatch happy."

Skyfire laughed again. "He's the perfect sparkling sitter, Star. No worries!"

Starscream stared in amazement at the minicon. "Yes. I hadn't thought of that!"

White arms pulled the seeker close again. "Now relax. Your systems are completely out of whack."

Starscream settled in once more. "True. My gyros are even creaky. It's ridiculous, you'd think I was an ancient or something."

"Hmm." Skyfire cuddled a smooth cheekplate. "Your fluid levels probably need replenishing."

"Too tired to think about it." Starscream appeared to sleep. Long moments passed in silence.

"What?"

"Starscream?"

The seeker popped up abruptly. "What was _that?"_

Skyfire stared in confusion. "What was what?"

Crimson optics narrowed in the dim light. "I thought I heard a cracking sound!"

"I didn't hear anything. Now rest! The sparklings aren't ready yet."

Starscream pointed at the eggs. "Didn't you hear something crack?"

"Only your brainbox." Skyfire grabbed him. "Now rest! I won't say it again."

"Brute." Starscream teased. "I've always been a sucker for strong bots."

Skyfire smiled and pulled him into a kiss.

()

Astrotrain took a hot oil shower to soothe his circuits. Blitzwing waited patiently in the bedroom. The decepticon train wasn't particularly anxious to join his bondmate. He sensed Blitzwing was in a talkative mood that didn't match his own.

After a quick buff and polish Astrotrain entered the bedroom, feeling more relaxed. Blitzwing sprawled easily on the soft mattress. He patted it in invitation.

"Come on, you can't hide forever."

"I wasn't hiding, Blitzwing. It's been a long and somewhat ridiculous cycle."

Blitzwing looked him over. "You look wonderful, Astro. I haven't complimented you as much lately as I should."

The train smiled vaguely. "You usually make up for it. But I don't feel like talking much tonight, I'm too tired."

"Don't be that way. Granted, we happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time."

Astrotrain eased into bed. "To say the least. I wanted to duck down an access tunnel and hide. Every time we turned around someone was in labor."

Blitzwing was silent momentarily, his expression odd. He gently traced lines across Astrotrain's chestplates.

"Speaking of which-"

"Don't start, Blitzwing! It's complete lunacy."

"You don't even know what I was going to say."

"I do! It's the same damn thing each time."

Blitzwing snorted, easing on an elbow. "You don't have to act like an aft. Didn't today bring back memories? You haven't lost any skill."

"I knew it." Astrotrain shook a finger. "Knock it off, okay? Every slagging time someone lays an egg you start up with this."

The tank shrugged. "Don't tell me it never occurred to you. I seem to remember vorns ago you mentioned us having a dirty dozen. We're two short."

"That was then, this is now. Besides, I was only kidding!"

"Really? You were quite insistent that we have more daughters to balance out the sons."

"That's crazy, we never planned any of that. It was just an idea I had!"

Blitzwing tapped him on the nose playfully. "A good idea, as I recall. Isn't that how we got Nighttrain?"

"I was drunk!"

"Funny thing." Blitzwing teased, pretending to think. "The astrosecond we decide on a string of daughters, a girl pops out. I think we should continue."

Astrotrain grimaced. "Your logic circuits are shot, Blitzwing. One thing has nothing to do with the other!"

"My circuitry is in _fine_ working order, as well you know. Didn't you always say 'one can never have too many?' "

A groan. "I might have been in a mood. Do you have to take me so literally?"

"I thought you'd never ask." Blitzwing kissed his bondmate with considerable heat.

Astrotrain didn't pull away. /You're still insane. Now get off./

/An interesting choice of words, Astrotrain. Your mainframe is beautiful as ever./

/Still scrap talking me after all this time?/

/I can't help it. I bonded you for your looks./

Astrotrain sighed, pulling out of the kiss. "Technically, we're already over a dozen."

Blitzwing rolled off. "You had to go _there._ Thanks for killing the mood."

"Knowing you, it's only temporary." Astrotrain sat up. "Besides, why plan anything now? We never did before."

"True. Our children don't know the _whole_ truth about themselves anyway. They may sense it, but I doubt any of them have figured it out."

"You can argue with Octane over those details. I don't care who takes which credit for what. And we still have the little ones to consider."

"I miss them and their antics. A pity you didn't have time to play with them on Kaos 3."

Astrotrain settled back on the pillows. "Plenty of time for that, Blitz. I'm sure they'll pester us about stories soon enough."

Blitzwing grabbed candy from the nightstand. "Not to mention hassles for piggyback rides. Incidentally, Octane seems a bit jumpy about Shrapnel."

"Shrapnel's running a bit late, so I can understand the jitters. At least Octane won't need any help with the hatching."

Blitzwing handed his bondmate some of the candy. "Small favor. Their sparkling should have an interesting configuration."

Astrotrain crunched hungrily. "He mention any names?"

"I think they already settled on BuzzBomb."

"Octane worries too much about our brood. They argue and scream for the hell of it half the time. Once things settle with the clan, they'll accept the sparkling. Electrons are thicker than energon."

_"Shrapnel_ is the issue." Blitzwing reminded him. "For Octane's sake, I hope they get along. Insecticons can be a bit on the irritating side. And I have no interest in breaking up stupid fights."

Astrotrain rolled over to rest. "They're all grown, Blitzwing. Sometimes it's better if they beat their own brains out. A few cracks might let in some sense."

Blitzwing chuckled, spooning behind his bondmate. "Love hurts, I suppose. So what do you think about my proposal?"

"To do what?" Astrotrain was stubborn.

Blitzwing pecked the back of his head. "Don't be dense, Astro. Another sparkling! I promise it will be a girl."

"I think your repo lines should be fused. Besides, you know plans _never_ work."

Blitzwing paused in his affection. "You're right. I'd almost forgotten that."

_"If_ we have another sparkling, it should be random and out of nowhere. Like all the others!"

"That makes remarkably good sense. We could pop one out and go home. It would be fun, seeing our children blow a gasket!"

Astrotrain snickered. "System meltdowns everywhere. A delightful scenario, don't you think? They could even sparkling sit while we're busy elsewhere."

Blitzwing snuggled close, his visiors darkening. "Perhaps. Dim the lights, Astro. I was only joking about all this."

Astrotrain tapped the nearby lamp controls. "I know you were."

"Talking about this is so _exciting."_

"Stop annoying me, Blitzwing. Go jump Octane or something!"

A kiss in the dark. "Now, Astro. You remember what happened the _last_ time I did that!"

()

Megatron peered out into the hallways of the sublevels. Whistling a happy tune, he skipped down a narrow corridor. A mesh bag full of spray paint was tossed over his shoulder. He pulled a couple of cans out.

"Oooo. Now I can put up the pretty colors. I think the decepticons will like this."

Smiling like an idiot, he sprayed wildly over the walls.

"Dum DEE dum, de dum DEE dum!" heavy footsteps clanged loudly as Megatron hopped along, leaving trails of paint everywhere. He darted inside a boom tube, punched a few buttons and shot to the upper levels.

"WHEEE! I'm on a ride. Gonna go WAAAAY up!!" arms flapping, he jumped out at the main level. Taking a sharp turn, he disappeared once again down a corridor.

()

Octane applied hot oil compresses to his distressed bondmate. Shrapnel hissed and shrieked, his mainframe rattling with vibration.

"Help me, Octane!" the insecticon screeched, his antenna spinning. _"I'm breaking in half!!"_

"Listen to me, sweetbot." Octane soothed. "I think you're ready."

"Ready? _Ready?!_ No, I'm not. Yes I am!!" Shrapnel rolled up and howled. Another screech shattered a glass bowl on the table.

Octane turned his insecticon over and held on tight. "Focus on me, Shrapnel. I'm going to ease your spark chamber."

"Go away!!" another deafening shriek. Octane almost smiled at his crazed bondmate. He touched a finger on Shrapnel's forehead.

/I'm going to dull the pain in your core relays. You'll feel a cooling sensation./

Shrapnel heaved and lay still, his visiors dim. His mainframe relaxed into a state of stasis. Octane nodded in satisfaction and waited.

Slowly, Shrapnel's relatively small spark chamber opened, making brilliant blue glare. Octane stared transfixed at the egg he saw inside. With delicate precision he guided it out with nimble fingers.

The triplechanger split a smile. /My little one!/ he nuzzled his new offspring.

Still smiling, he set the egg inside the crib and adjusted the controls. Satisfied at the temperature, he turned his attention to his unconscious bondmate. Leaning down, he kissed the insecticon.

/You've had a hard time, sweet. But you'll love the surprise!/

He deftly cleaned and washed Shrapnel before covering him with fresh thermablankets. Too exhausted to do anything else, Octane collapsed on the bed beside his bondmate.

/The baby is here./

He entered rest mode, weary and happy.

()

The silent message was received. In their own private quarters, Blitzwing and Astrotrain blearily opened their optics.

"That was quick." Blitzwing commented, his voice husky with rest.

"Yes, I sense it." Astrotrain replied. "It appears the gene pool has expanded."

Blitzwing nodded sleepily. "As you've so often said, more is better."

"Are you going to keep bringing that up?"

"I may lay a few eggs myself. You never know."

Astrotrain rolled over. "Go to sleep, Blitzwing."

()

Breaker beeped wildly from the crib. Starscream immediately popped up in bed.

"What? I knew it! They hatched?!" crimson optics were wild.

Startled, Skyfire likewise sat up. "Breaker? What happened, are the eggs safe?"

The sphere hummed happily. "Is news! New baby here."

"Oh brother." Starscream rolled his optics.

"You woke us up for that?" Skyfire was annoyed. "Stop being silly!"

"Not understand. Shrapnel hatch! Octane pada."

"This just happened?" Skyfire was curious.

"Was so. New addition! Shrapnel quick hatch."

Starscream was snippish. "Pit take it. Who cares about _Octane's_ egg? I've got my own sparklings to watch!"

"Breaker watch. All secure!"

The seeker cocked his head suddenly. "Wait, I thought I heard a cracking sound."

"Eggs not crack. Said so before!"

"Do you believe him, Skyfire?"

The big jet stared at the crib. "Why not? I didn't hear anything."

"I don't know." Starscream peered in the dimly lit bedroom. "There seems to be a tiny fracture on the shells, and-"

Breaker vibrated, his tone indignant. "Not have sense. Breaker know! Say nothing false. See illusions, stress from birth."

Skyfire felt his optics close. "Enough, Star. We both need more rest."

"You're right." Starscream was running on spent energy. He collapsed against his bondmate in exhaustion. The room was quiet for nearly a breem.

Starscream eventually sat up again, staring.

"That's it, I knew it! Skyfire!!"

_"What?!"_ annoyed at being awakened again, Skyfire rolled to his side.

Starscream pointed at the crib. "I definitely heard something this time! A cracking noise-"

Powerful arms snatched him back down. Skyfire smothered his squirming seeker with a kiss.

Nestled in his cozy spot, Breaker approved of the move in silence.

To be continued