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Dinobot's systems started to online one by one, and he was unsettled when he only heard a high pitch ringing in his audio receptor and no other noises. Typically onlining in the Maximal base was loud, hearing the voices of the others talking. He didn't online his optics yet, for a moment tensing and wondering if he was perhaps captured by the Predacons. Though he doubted it, considering his injuries were healed and his frame wasn't aching or sore.
He cautiously onlined his optics, relaxing ever so slightly to see he was in the restoration chamber. Outside around the main table everyone was gathered (minus Cheetor who was also presumably injured enough to be in the chamber beside him). Rhinox looked over, Optimus and Rattrap following his gaze. Rhinox walked over, touching the panel of the chamber to open it. Dinobot felt his processor lag for a moment, suddenly confused. He felt the vibrations of Rhinox walk but not the sound, same with the buttons on the pad to let him out.
The restoration chamber door started to rise suddenly, and he nearly flinched, alarmed that he didn't hear it click. What in the inferno? He send a ping to his audio receptors to make sure they were functioning, and his audio systems reported back that were online. The restoration chamber door fully opened and Dinobot cautiously stepped out, slow and hesitant. He stared at Rattrap as the vermon's mouth moved but nothing came out. Optimus glanced at Dinobot again and said something he also didn't hear. Dinobot stared back blankly, optics only narrowing slightly and face twisting in confusion.
All them them started to stare at him, mildly confused. Optimus said something again, and this time Dinobot managed to figure he was saying 'Dinobot?' Or something along the lines of it.
Dinobot growled out, "My audio receptors are malfunctioning."
He cringed slightly, disturbed that he couldn't even hear his own words. He almost wasn't sure he'd even spoke as Rattrap and Optimus shared a funny look. Rhinox started to walk towards him, picking a scanner from a table and talking, probably to the other two.
He gestured at Dinobot's helm, motioning for him to come closer and let him inspect for damage. At least he assumed so. Dinobot growled softly, greatly uncomfortable with the eerie silence he was stuck with. He leaned down a little and moved his helm to the side allowing Rhinox to scan him. He saw Rhinox using the device from the corner of his optics. After a couple moments Rhinox stepped back, pressing a few things into the device. Meanwhile Dinobot glanced at Optimus and Rattrap. Optimus was frowning and looking worried, predictably. Rattrap looked surprised, but he was almost sure there was a little bit of consern in his optics too. Rattrap said something, looking amused and Optimus shoved him sternly. Dinobot narrowed his optics at Rattrap, certain it was nothing kind he was saying. Rattrap threw up his servos gesturing at Dinobot and probably being loud. Dinobot's frown deepened, disturbed at not being able to hear him. He would rather endure the rat's banter than remain without any sound. Optimus and Rattrap looked over at Rhinox suddenly and Dinobot followed their gaze seeing he was speaking now.
Dinobot felt a wave of unease rolling over him. He hated this immensely, the not knowing. Suddenly they all looked at him again, faces mixed with amplified consern and pity. He bared his teeth, disturbed. Their unusual worry made him want to shrink in the spot, disturbed by the feeling of being looked down on and out of the loop. Rattrap said something and Rhinox glanced over speaking again.
Dinobot's fists clenched, growing angry with them.
Optimus suddenly turned and walked over to a storage container, pulling out a data pad and starting to write something. Rhinox watched Optimus as he did, while Rattrap continued to stared at Dinobot, a mix of consern and doubt in his optics.
Dinobot glared back offended and greatly disturbed by the almost sympathetic look in his optics, snarling out, "Disgusting rodent."
Rattrap looked startled, and Dinobot bit back a pleased smile. Optimus glanced over at them both and Rattrap's expression narrowed and he said something short back, presumably an insult. Rattrap smirked looked to Rhinox who had a disapproving frown. As much as he was sure he rodent was bad mouthing him, he was utterly disappointed and discouraged not being able to hear it and rebuttal properly. Rattrap and Rhinox suddenly looked to Optimus who stopped writing and looked to Dinobot, walking over and holding out the data pad. Dinobot glanced down wearily, taking it and eyeing it. The datapad read:
"Rhinox's scanner indicates nothing is wrong. I'm assuming your systems couldn't pick up any errors either. Rhinox wants to do a surgery and see if there might be something knocked out of place in your audio receptors. It won't take long. Either way it most likely isn't permanent."
Dinobot grimaced, displeased that the only solution was almost one he was greatly against. He didn't entirely trust the Maximals so close to his processor, afraid they might fiddle with his programming. He looked up from it shoving to back into Optimus servo as he growled stubbornly, "It will recover over time then, no surgery is necessary."
Optimus looked half surprised, but half like he expected that response. He frowned and spoke, then made a face of embarrassment and started writing on the datapad again. Optimus paused and started to argue with Rattrap. Rattrap rolled his optics and shrugged, giving up with whatever he was arguing. Optimus glanced at Rhinox frowning, then continuing to write then handing it back again.
Dinobot felt himself growing tired of the datapad as a means of communication but there wasn't anything else he could do. He snatched it back sourly, reading it then baring his teeth angrily.
It read:
"In that case, you are excused from patrols and monitor duty, I expect you to rest and recover. That's an order."
His grip on it tightened angrily and he bristled glaring at Optimus, pride hurt by the order to be on temporary bedrest. Optimus sighed, looking tired but stern.
Dinobot slammed it back into Optimus' chest shoving past him and angrily storming away. If there were any protests about his leaving he didn't hear them. Dinobot made it back to his quarters practically fuming. One the door shut behind him Dinobot felt slightly relieved being alone but he couldn't help but still feel uneasy. The silence was getting to him already. Dinobot rose his servo up and touched a couple digits to his audio receptor, feeling it and poking at it. He dropped his servo back to his side, thoughtful now. He was given direct orders to be confined to recover, but he hated doing nothing. He considered leaving to go for a walk, but he wasn't a complete moron. It was a bad idea. Dinobot growled angrily, not even sure how loud he was. He stalked to his berth and settled down, deciding that if he recharged he might recover sooner. As soon as he was laying down Dinobot offlined his optics and shut down.
When he woke up the next morning, he was disappointed to find he still couldn't hear anything. Dinobot started stalking through the halls of the Axalon, considering going outside for a walk. He wouldn't go on patrol, he could stay nearby and not engage the enemy. It was better than being pent up in the ship for the next couple days or so. The silence was disturbing enough on it's own. He usually spent most of his free time alone in his chambers, so to an extent the silence was normal. But he couldn't help but feel paranoid someone might sneak attack him. With that in mind Dinobot transformed into beast mode, knowing his other senses such as sight and smell were hightened in this state. He cocked his head, trying to see if he could hear anything in this state. He could not. He shook his head, which was a little sore from a new headache. He transformed back and went on to read some Shakespearean plays he had brought with from the Darkside, unbothered with anything for the most part. It helped sooth his nerves. Eventually though Dinobot felt himself growing restless and paranoid. The paranoia was unbecoming of him, and he disliked the dread greatly.
The next day he read Shakespeare again to occupy himself, but he was restless and on edge. Leaving the datapad behind he headed to the command center, requesting to leave for a walk outside. Optimus was hesitant to allow him, eventually saying he could only if another Maximal went with him, and they were to stay in Maximal territory. Dinobot bristled at this, annoyed. He, a great warrior, didn't need a babysitter. But Optimus disagreed then send off Dinobot for a walk, with Rattrap as his babysitter. Neither were pleased with the decision. Dinobot stomped ahead in his beast mode as they made it outside, and he distantly felt the little footsteps of the rodent in beast mode also, trying to catch up with him. He considered leaving Rattrap behind and claiming it to be an accident but he figured Optimus wasn't that gullible. Out of his perifial he saw Rattrap catch up panting, speed walking beside him. Rattrap was saying something, talking. Dinobot watched, figuring that the only good thing out of this was he didn't have to deal with the rodent's incessant talking and complaining. But as they walked he started to find it rather the opposite. He missed it. He stared forward as they walked, focused on the horizon and starting to zone out. They walked for maybe 10 minutes when sudden he felt a servo touch his back lightly and he snarled tensing, whirling to the side and snapping his jaws at his attacker. Rattrap barley managed to avoid his teeth, startled. Dinobot relaxed, staring at Rattrap who must have changed back into his root mode when he wasn't paying attention. He moved back, and Rattrap looked a little irritated, snapping something at him. Rattrap rolled his optics and gestured to a rock they were near. Dinobot stared at it then back at Rattrap blankly. Rattrap looked annoyed again, walking over and sitting on the rock. Dinobot snarled softly and stalked after, standing and watching Rattrap who flicked his wrist at Dinobot dismissively. Dinobot narrowed his optics, resisting the urge to snap at him again. He glanced around them briefly, familiar with the area. Sector Delta, he recalled. It was a comfort to at least be aware of where he was. He glanced back to Rattrap, watching as he had a canister pulled out, refueling. Dinobot's tail lashed somewhat irritatedly. When Rattrap tucked it away he rose his digit to his helm, apparently accepting a comm. Probably from Optimus, he figured. Dinobot watched him impatiently. This whole being deaf was really not ideal. And his hearing seemed in no way closer to coming back. But he simply refused to let the Maximals near his processor. He tilted his head considerately eyeing Rattrap. Rattrap distrusted him, as did he the rodent. But one Maximal was better than the entirety of them doing the surgery. And besides, at least Rattrap acknowledged and accepted he was a Predacon whereas the others tried to convince him otherwise. He doubted Rattrap would try to reprogram him or offline him, and if either he was sure the rat would choose offlining over reprogramming. He could deal with that. Reprogramming was a low blow that he was certain Rattrap wouldn't deal. He focused on the vermin again, noticing Rattrap bring his servo down, looking at him and saying something most likely actually addressing him this time despite knowing he couldn't hear. As much as he didn't trust Rattrap in most cases, this was something he was oddly confident the rodent wouldn't screw with. Besides, with few proper tools at least not too much harm could be done. He wondered if Rattrap too missed their bickering? Dinobot himself would deny it, but he did. As Rattrap got up from the rock Dinobot transformed into his root mode and approached him. Rattrap stiffened, confused and looking like he half expected Dinobot to start attacking him. His mouth moved speaking. Dinobot growled, reaching out and leaning down. Rattrap looked uneasy. He gripped Rattrap's wrist and gazed down intently as he said, "This silence is intolerable, I will allow you to determine the issue."
He hated that he couldn't hear his own voice, making a face and watching as Rattrap relaxed slightly, though a little confused and he made a doubtful expression starting to speak.
Sure that it was some sort of excuse or question, Dinobot growled firmly and desicively, "Now and here, vermin. I do not wish to have my helm prodded at with advanced Maximal instruments that could... infect it."
Rattrap frowned but seemed thoughtful. He started to speak then caught himself as he nodded and pulled his arm away, sitting back down and gesturing Dinobot to come to him. Dinobot hadn't thought it would be that easy. He hesitantly came over, settling on his knees, bowing his helm forward, and partially transforming one side of his helm near his audio receptor to allow Rattrap access. Rattrap pulled out a little stick-like tool from his arm compartment and reached out cautiously, using one servo to move Dinobot's helm to the side. He tensed, forcing himself to remain still and unflinching as he felt the foreign tool touch at his audio receptor mechanism, pushing things around and lightly prodding. He felt Rattrap grab a larger part of his audio receptor with his digits carefully, moving it and wriggling the tool in further. The tool jabbed into something causing his headache to intensify and he snarled, unable to stop himself from wincing at the suddenness of it. Rattrap pulled back a little, and from the corner of his optics he saw the vermin speak, looking somewhat apologetic. He supposed a little pain was expected considering Rattrap was no medic. The rat probably didn't even know what he was doing. Despite his regrets, it was too late to turn back now. The tool gently scrapped at part of his audio receptor, and Rattrap's servo absently moved down a little, still touching his faceplates. Rattrap slipped his servo down and grabbed his chin, tilting Dinobot's helm down as he continued to prod, a little more carefully and deeper in. Dinobot clenched his teeth, displeased with the manhandling but knowing it was nessicary. Dinobot jerked his helm a little at the uncomftble sensation of the tool prodding deeply in, touching more sensitive parts of his audio receptor. Rattrap paused in reaction, tapping at his jaw with a digit gently to get his attention. Dinobot glanced to Rattrap, who was looking at him and pulled back his servo as he spoke, pointing at the side of his helm and balling his fist then opening it. Dinobot understood the gesture enough though was reluctant to transform his helm plating any further. It would get Rattrap closer to his processor and other vital systems. Rattrap must have recognized his doubt beside he poked the tool against something impatiently making Dinobot growl painfully.
He hissed lowly, "Fine."
Rattrap looked a little startled at Dinobot speaking much to his amusement.
Dinobot pushed back his nervousness and transformed the plating off further, feeling uncomfortably exposed. Rattrap retracted the tool slightly and scooted forward on the rock leaning closer and then continuing to start moving the tool back in with his digits positioning Dinobot's more outter plating out of the way. Dinobot was having a hard time masking his discomfort the further in Rattrap got, certain he was grimacing now. He rose his servo, setting it on Rattrap's knee which was pretty close in front of him. Rattrap tensed a little at the touch but for the most part ignored it. It was mostly a subconscious action, both to steady himself and discourage Rattrap from trying anything funny. Dinobot couldn't quite see Rattrap's faceplates anymore at this angle, gazing at his chest instead. He studied it trying to distract himself by memorizing the color and spotting dirt flecks clinging to individual furs. He even caught himself wondering what it felt like. Considering his fur was pretty short it probably was rough and less soft. The distraction had been working enough that he was slightly startled when the tool poked at something deep in, making him freeze and his grip on Rattrap's knee tightened. The tool lightly scrapped around a small bump, and Dinobot felt vibrations escaping his throat, unintentionally growling at the weird sensation. It wasn't that it hurt but it felt very wrong regardless. Rattrap poked at the bump more aggressively, trying to pry at whatever it was. Dinobot was sure he was growling loudly now but couldn't help it. Suddenly, the tool scrapped under the bump, making it pop off while also sending a jolt of pain up his sensitive wiring making him shutter. His plating half closed instinctively at the pain and he fought to keep it open enough so he didn't crush the tool and Rattrap's digits. Rattrap extracted the tool, moved back from Dinobot a bit. Dinobot let his helm plating close back up in relief, noticing Rattrap was giving him a rather concerned look. Dinobot realized he was hiding his grimace poorly and that his grip was tight on Rattrap's knee, claws digging into on his metal and denting his leg a little. He let go, putting on a more neutral expression and eyeing the tool Rattrap held. He ignored the way his helm throbbed painfully. Rattrap glanced at the tool as well, lowering it and moving it so they could both see. The pinscher of the tool held a small rectangular thing that glistened with a little bit of Dinobot's energon. Rattrap frowned looking a little guilty as he glanced at Dinobot's helm, and Dinobot figured the damage he had caused was unintentional.
Upon closer inspection it appeared to be a small drone-like metal insect. Similar to Scorpinok's surveillance drone though extremely smaller in size, but the design was relatively uncanny. This was a Predacon invention. By the look on Rattrap's face he had came to the same conclusion. His mouth moved and he motioned to the other side of Dinobot's helm with a new sense of importance. Dinobot obediently turned his helm, casting Rattrap a look to let him know he didn't enjoy being told what to do and he was only complying because it was entirely necessary.
Rattrap put the small drone thing into his arm subspace then started the same procedure on the other side of his helm. Dinobot was uncomftble again with the feeling of being so exposed, though at least he knew what to expect this time and hid his reactions better. Granted Rattrap seemed more careful this time, probably out of guilt. While Rattrap was working Dinobot suddenly tensed, the other side already operated on producing a pop and he heard a high pitch noise, and a very muffled and distant tap. He grabbed Rattrap's arm holding him still and focusing on the other audio receptor closely. Rattrap looked confused but complied to pause his work, speaking and sighing. Dinobot had to stop himself from tilting his helm, reminded that there was a tool in the other side of his helm. When Rattrap spoke he heard a very distant muffled noise, like a low hum and click.
Rattrap watched him curiously and spoke again with a questioning gaze.
Dinobot muttered, "I cannot hear you, only slight noises."
Rattrap's expression deflated a little but only for a second before a more focused one replaced it and he motioned for Dinobot to let go so he could keep working. Dinobot noticed his disappointment and felt somewhat amused, glad to know the dislike for his loss of hearing was mutual.
Dinobot reluctantly let go, resting his servo back on Rattrap's leg again to keep himself more still. Rattrap resumed prodding, both servos at work. The tool was indefinitely uncomftble, and Rattrap's digits were relatively gentle in comparison. His digits absently brushed the larger outer plating as he was working the tool in deeper searching for another of the little drones. Dinobot's jaw tightened at the uncomftble sensation, plating tense and tight. Rattrap's servo dropped, touching his and making him flinch. He let go of Rattrap's knee, realizing he was starting to dent it again and assuming that was Rattrap's intention with the touch. Before he could pull his servo away Rattrap caught it, holding onto a couple of his larger digits. Dinobot couldn't glanced down without moving his helm so he only stiffened. With his digit tip Rattrap tapped his servo, in a little tapping pattern that successfully held Dinobot's attention. Since his hearing was practically useless, touch was somewhat amplified and a substitute to sound in a way. He focused on the little pattern, throughly confused by it. At first he believed it was some sort of silent message, trying to determine the purpose or intention behind the taps. He welcomed the distraction and softly, subconsciously, growled as he curiously focused in on it. A weak shot of pain made him tense up again, thought it was significantly less painful than the removal had been on the other side of his helm and he was able to keep most of his helm panels from retracting. Rattrap's servo let go and moved back up to work on extracting the miniature drone. Dinobot pulled his servo away, clenching his fist embarrised at having held hands with the rodent, masking it with irritation. Rattrap moved back, dropping the drone into his servo and eyeing it. Dinobot transformed his helm back shut and glanced at the drone before standing up and taking a step back. His helm still throbbed painfully and his audio receptors were sore from the prodding, though he was certain it was nothing that wouldn't go away. He shook his helm a little with a small grunt.
Rattrap put the second drone away, mouth moving again as he stood and gave Dinobot a hopeful look. Dinobot only heard distant clicks and a high pitch ringing. He frowned and said, "Rhinox should examine the little drones, we must return to the base."
Rattrap looked unsure but gave a short nod, transforming back into beast mode. Dinobot followed suit and they began their return to base. Dinobot glanced at the rodent thoughtfully, pleasantly surprised at how well Rattrap had done. He was especially surprised with how careful he'd been, having expected intentionally worse. He supposed he shouldn't be surpised by now, the Maximals functioned differently than the Predacons, they tended to care for eachother despite their disagreements or ill ties with one another. Dinobot shook his head again while they walked, the headache haunting the back of his helm. It was tolerable, but that didn't mean it wasn't annoying. He didn't hear a ringing sound anymore at least.
He heard a low click sound and a muffled noise that sounded like faint talking. He narrowed his eyes and looking down to Rattrap curiously, tilting his head a little.
Rattrap was looking up at him speaking. He looked a little amused. Dinobot snarled, instantly offended and sure the rat was making fun of him. Rattrap rolled his eyes and continued to talk. Dinobot frowned and watched him, focusing on the barley audible noises he was making. He wasn't sure what the point of his talking was, perhaps it made Rattrap feel better to talk, he supposed. He glanced ahead, thinking back to Rattrap holding his servo. Admittedly, it had been a clever trick to distract him and make his plating relax.
Suddenly, Rattrap's full weight slammed into his side catching him off guard and sending them both toppling over. He collapsed on his side with Rattrap on him and snarled aggressively, instantly tensing in realization as he watched Rattrap transform into root mode looking up in alarm and a small explosion blasted where they were just standing. Rattrap moved off Dinobot focusing on the sky, raising his gun and starting to shoot. Dinobot growled following his gaze, transforming, and looking to the sky where Waspinator was dodging shots from Rattrap. Dinobot's optics burned and he shot a green blazer at Waspinator who flew farther back into the sky tried and failing to shoot back at the two of them.
Rattrap's gunfire stopped but Dinobot didn't notice, distracted with trying to hit Waspinator. Suddenly Dinobot stumbled as a blast hit him square in the back and he turned his helm, gazing up startled to see Terrorsaur smirking. Rattrap was on the ground not unconcious but struggling to get back up from being shot. Dinobot silently cursed Primus and wasted no time in reactivating his lasers to hit the second Predacon. Fire from both the Predacon was aimed at him, and he had to turn to attention from one of the fliers to the other quickly as he waited for Rattrap to recover. It was hard to figure out which flier to focus on considering the only sense he could currently rely on was sight. Waspinator suddenly started to dive at Dinobot in a charge attack, and Dinobot growled, focusing on him and right before he lasered the bug, a powerful shot hit his back, making him collapse on his front. His optics dimmed, and he fought against the urge to fall offline. The last thing he felt was a small servo touch his shoulder, shaking him urging him to get back up. He was fairly certain it was Rattrap but from his lack of sight and hearing, he couldn't be sure. He fell offline.
Rattrap swore under his breath, crouched beside the unconcious Dinobot.
He muttered to himself raising his gun and firing at Terrorsaur, "Ohh boy if Cheetor doesn't get his spotted butt here soon I'm slagged."
Rattrap jumped back in alarm as Waspinator and Terrorsaur blaitantly fired at the already downed Dinobot.
He bristled and shouted angrily, "Hey- you needa work on your aim you flying boltbrains!"
Terrorsaur cackled back with gleeful cynicism, "Or maybe ol' Dinobot needs to work on dieing!"
Rattrap's optics widened in alarm at that, realizing their shots were intentionally. It seemed obvious thinking about it; Dinobot was one of the biggest threats to the Predacons and they were obviously out to get him while he was currently only half functioning like his usual self. He needed to act quick if he wanted to save Dinobot's scaled hide. Rattrap scurried back to Dinobot quickly, crouching by him again and grunting as he pulled the large mech's arm around his neck hauling him up slightly.
With his other servo he continued to fire at the preds and shouted back surpised by the sureness in his own voice, "Not on my watch ya filthy preds!"
Then in a quieter anxious voice he muttered, "Come on Chopperface, wake up." Dinobot was still completely limp, having no response. As the fight continued Rattrap managed to drag Dinobot and himself behind a boulder, at least having cover now. He set Dinobot's frame down and kept firing at the preds. His optics narrowed and Waspinator let out a howl as he was hit directly, falling back in the sky and beginning to fall. He flailed and buzzed incoherent words. Terrorsaur watched him fall and scowled to himself, "Do I have to do all the work myself?"
Rattrap aimed and fired, and Terrorsaur shrieked in suprise, now falling as well.
Rattrap relaxed and put his gun back to his hip as he chuckled to himself smugly, "Heh, guess I don't need that backup after all."
"Guess again, rodent." A deep voice said behind him.
Rattrap sighed and muttered, "Me and my loud mouth."
He turned around slowly, putting his servos up to face Megatron who was smiling darkly and had his T-rex head servo aimed at Rattrap.
Rattrap watched him wearily and started to say defiantly, "What'd you dirty preds want with Dinobot any-"
THUD.
Rattrap collapsed forwards, and Scorpinok stood looking down at him with a grin and his large claw clicked. Rattrap didn't move, unconcious. Megatron looked to his second and nodded as he said urgently, "Good work. We must flee before Optimus and his Maximals get here to ensure our victory. Grab Waspinator and Terrorsaur, I'll get Dinobot and the rodent. Hurry!"
Scorpinok saluted him quickly and turned running off to gather the downed Predacons. Megatron picked up Rattrap easily then turned and approached Dinobot with a cruel grin, reaching down and grabbing him by the neck with his free servo, hoisting him up.
"Yeeessssss." He hissed out gleefully eyeing the traitor.
He distantly heard the sound of a Maximal voice and Optimus' jetpack. He stifled a gasp and made his leave with the prizes. As he hurried away he grinned, pleased with the success of their scheme. Albeit, it had taken longer than they hoped for the devices to be discovered but now they had not one but two Maximal prisoners, and one of which was a traitor. It was better than he could of imagined. Oh yeesssssss. He had wonderful plans for them both. Once they were returned to the Darkside, Megatron put both his prisoners in separate cages swinging above magma as was custom for the prisoner. But he had something extra special in mind. A traitor had to punished after all. But he had to be patient. Megatron studied the two Maximal a moment longer before leaving them, waiting for their online. They had to both be awake for his plan to go smoothly. Whatever the outcome, both the Maximals would be dead before Optimus could rescue them.
Rattrap groaned, systems starting to pop back online. He rose his head off the ground, wearily noticing he was in beast mode. He glanced around, alarmed at the familiar sight of the Predacon prison.
"Slag." He cursed.
A low growl made the rat jump and he peered to the side seeing Dinobot in his beast mode laying on his side. At first he thought Dinobot was awake but he soon realized that wasn't the case. The growling seemed to be involuntary. Rattrap transformed into his root mode, putting a servo on the cage bar and glancing around. He'd escaped here before, and he was confident he could do it again. But he needed Dinobot awake in order to get them both out, because there was no way in the pits he could haul the unconcious raptor all the way out. Rattrap focused on Dinobot and hissed quietly, aware that they were most likely being watched or listened to, "Chopperface!"
Dinobot didn't react and Rattrap frowned worriedly. He was fairly sure that Dinobot wasn't hit too bad, but if he still couldn't hear and he was injured that would make things a lot more difficult for the saurian. Rattrap tried again sharply, "Chopperface, wake up!"
Dinobot stirred a little to his relief, making a mix of a growl and groan, eyelids flickering open slowly. Rattrap teased, "Finally up, sleeping beauty?"
Dinobot moved to get up, looking at him as he spoke with a complicated expression.
Rattrap stared back suprised and said hopefully, "Chopperface?"
Dinobot's face scrunched and he growled looking weary, "Rodent?"
Rattrap asked, "You can hear me lizard breath?"
Dinobot growled back sounding tired and relieved, "Unfortunately."
Rattrap smiled and said, "Never thought I'd say it, but it's good to have you back, chopperface."
He bit his tounge, unwilling to spew anymore about how much he missed talking with the slagger.
Dinobot rose to his feet, glancing around at their surroundings.
"It is good to hear again," he agreed, "although it was rather pleasant without your incessant chatter vermin."
Rattrap kept smiling, happy that Dinobot was trying to bait him into banter. He took it willingly, relieved to be able to argue back and forth with Dinobot once more, "Ya know, I could arrange for ya hearing to get slagged again ya lousy reptile."
"Atrocious vermin." Dinobot snarled back, though there was hardly any real anger behind it. If anything he sounded sort of happy, which was weird but not entirely unfamiliar.
Rattrap was having a hard time masking how relieved he was, and even though Dinobot seemed to be doing a better job at it he could tell the raptor was pleased to hear him again as well.
"I'm not the one who got knocked by Terrorsaur of all the preds." Rattrap goaded him eagerly, forgetting entirely that he was supposed to be finding a way out. Dinobot transformed into his rootmode, growling back, "It was difficult to fight the fliers when my backup was sitting on his aft being useless."
"Oh yeah? That so lizard lips?"
Dinobot was about to reply but the distant sound of a familiar deep, cynical laugh caught both their attention. They both looked over, too distracted with one another enough that they forgot they were currently in trouble.
Megatron came into view and said with a toothy grin ignoring Rattrap's existence, "Oh Dinobot, quite the predicament you are in, yeeeeesssss."
Dinobot snarled, but this time it was actually aggressive.
Rattrap was sort of annoyed at being ignored but decided to let this play out to figure out what Megatron was up to.
"I have a proposal for you dear Dinobot. One that I think you will find quite acceptable."
Dinobot's optics narrowed and he growled lowly, somewhat intrigued.
Megatron pressed something and the door to Dinobot's cage swung open, cage door squeaking at it did. Dinobot didn't move from the cage, frozen and eyeing Megatron calculatingly.
Megatron seemed to know what he was thinking and warned, "Do not try anything, I will finish explaining my proposal first."
Dinobot spoke finally with a growl, "I am not interested in any offer from you Megatron."
"Tsk tsk. As I said, I will explain first."
Rattrap's servo flew to his hip, silently cursing as he discovered he was unarmed.
"I propose a duel to the death. Just you and I, no tricks, no gunfire, here and now."
Megatron said and waved his servo, as he did a hover pad came in front of Dinobot's cage. Dinobot skeptically glanced at it, then back at Megatron and asked as though he was considering it, "And if I win?"
Rattrap looked to Dinobot in disbelief. Was he nuts? He heard the to the death part right?
"You would rule the Predacons, of course."
Dinobot's optics narrowed thoughtfully.
Rattrap shouted catching both their attention, "AHEM- what about me, ya slagging saurians?"
Dinobot looked over at him, seeming the littlest bit guilty. He gazed back to Megatron and asked, "Yes, what of the vermin?"
Megatron barely even looked at Rattrap seeming uninterested, but there was something cold behind his optics that made Rattrap shutter.
Megatron smiled and said focusing back on Dinobot, "What can I say, I enjoy entertaining an audience. It will make your demise all the sweeter when the little rodent scurries back telling the other Maximals of your dramatic failure."
Dinobot bristled, stepping out of the cage onto the platform with his chest puffed and looking decided. He transformed his sword out, snarling, "Let us begin."
Rattrap exclaimed from his cage, "Are you out of your slagging reptile mind dinobutt?"
He was ignored by the two bloodthirsty saurians. Megatron took a few steps back onto solid ground, and Dinobot leaped onto the ground on the opposite side, growling. Dinobot roared a battle cry and made the first move, charging Megatron. Megatron scowled, knocking the sword away with his T-rex headed servo. Rattrap winced as Megatron landed a solid blow to Dinobot with his other servo but Dinobot was able to retaliate quickly, landing his own hit on the large mech. They continued to fight this way, in a stalemate where sometimes one might get the upper hand and look like they were winning but the other would make a comeback. Rattrap watched on anxiously, glancing to their battle then back around his cage looking for a way to subtly get out. Dinobot might get annoyed at him for interfering but he couldn't just let the moron take on Megatron alone. Rattrap fished a piece of metal rod from his arm compartments and walked to the front of the cage, trying to wriggle the lock open. He was distracted by the growls and cursing of the fight, glancing up wearily then back to the lock. If he could just get out he could- a shot hit Rattrap square in the chest, making him collapse back from the lock and fall on his aft, yelping in alarm. He didn't know where the shot came from. Dinobot's helm swerved in his direction, startled like he forgot Rattrap was there in the first place. Megatron sneered and took advantage of the distraction, sweeping at Dinobot's feet making him fall back and firmly planting his ped on Dinobot's chest using his weight to pin him. Megatron was holding Dinobot's own sword at Dinobot's neck threateningly. Rattrap must of missed Megatron managing to get it from him. Rattrap stared at the scene in front of him frozen. Dread and shock filled him. There had to be something he could do but... there wasn't...
"No." He exhaled in horror.
"Yeeeeeeessssss." Megatron said, looking pleased as he glared down at the traitor.
Dinobot stuck his helm up and growled confidently, "Finish it."
Megatron's optics flared and he looked positively gleeful, "Too easy a death for you, my treacherous Dinobot. More than you deserve. You always did jump into things without thinking of the consequence."
Dinobot glared back and snapped, "And you always did have to be so dramatic."
Megatron poked the tip of the sword into Dinobot's chin, forcing it up. There was a strangely amused and dark look in Megatron's optics, like he knew something neither of them did. Rattrap felt horror hit him, suddenly having a feeling that he in fact did. Dinobot's face darkened in a similar realization. Megatron looked to Rattrap, using the sword to force Dinobot's helm to turn to face the rat as well.
"I never clarified," Megatron began maliciously, "who's life was at stake."
Rattrap tensed, frozen and his optic wide. His and Dinobot's optics locked, both of them equally shocked at the turn of events.
"You wouldn't dare." Dinobot snarled with a new ferocity as he struggled to look back at Megatron and failed.
Megatron had a large grin and a sadistic look in his optics. He rose his T-rex servo aiming it at Rattrap and building up a shot. Rattrap got to his peds and stumbled away from the front bars, yelping fearfully.
Megatron spoke giddily, "We had a deal, Dinobot. So you will allow me to take this Maximal's life and then you will return to the other with his energon on your servos."
Rattrap snapped out weakly trying to be brave despite his shaking, "Do your worst, megaslag!"
Rattrap looked to Dinobot, a little overwhelmed with emotions and unsure if he should be mad at Dinobot or not. Mostly he was just worried that he was about to die. Dinobot's expression was twisted strangely, optics wide and his face full of emotions, more so than it had ever been. He couldn't quite understand the expression from the complexity but he could tell Dinobot was also quite overwhelmed and alarmed. He also looked afraid...? And enraged. Huh. Megatron's canon was humming loudly now, the Predacon letting it build up to make it a killing shot. Rattrap glanced around frantically. There had to be a way out of this, there always was, wasn't there? Then, Megatron released his shot. There was a smaller zap. Then a cry of pain.
A huge explosion made him stumble, smoke clouding the air. There were shouts and sounds of a struggle.
The cage groaned and tilted, and Rattrap felt himself sliding towards the lava below. He gasped and got into action, servos shakey and not sure what was happening. His cage door was open, half blasted. He blinked, the smoke making his optics practically useless. He was alive?Megatron missed? How did Megatron miss him? Where was-
He yelped as the cage lurched and he grabbed the bar as he was thrown out. His frame dangled above the magma below radiating heat. Oh slag. He looked back up where he held onto a single bar of the door which was holding onto the cage by a single hinge, groaning at his weight on it. He felt his systems racing and his spark spinning in panick. He tried to pull himself up but the cage creaked and he frozen, stiffening.
"Slag." He groaned fearfully.
He remained dangling there for what felt like a couple excruciatingly long minutes. He was afraid any more moment would make the cage fall into the magma below.
He yelped as something suddenly grabbed his back firmly, yanking him from the unstable cage. He squeaked in alarm, gazing down wide eyed at the magma below, nothing but the servo on his back holding him from a fiery death. Rattrap groaned dreadfully, looking up slowly. He gasped, his voice overcome with relief and awe, "Chopperface! You're not slagged!"
Dinobot was holding him by his back, expression twisted painfully and leaned over the edge of the solid platform, looking drained. Dinobot was breathing heavily, face tense in a grimace. Rattrap glanced down unnerved, reaching up and gripping Dinobot's arm afraid he might accidentally drop him.
"Gunna pull me up... heh?" He anxiously asked.
Dinobot growled out, voice grating painfully, "I cannot."
Rattrap spotted a nasty looking wound on Dinobot's shoulder, raw and deep even sparking a little.
Rattrap tensed a little and exhaled shakily, "Alright."
He reached up with his other servo, twisting around and gripping further up Dinobot's arm, pulling himself up and grabbing the platform. He groaned, pulling himself onto the platform beside Dinobot. Dinobot slowly pulled his arm back up onto the platform, growling softly and his optics bright with pain at moving it.
"What the slag was all that nonsense?" Rattrap asked anxiously, glancing at Dinobot with a wince at his wounds. His and Megatron's battle had been more intense than he realized. Dinobot growled and avoided Rattrap's optics, helm bowed shamefully as he struggled to sit up, "I... believed he would... keep his word... I was naive to."
Rattrap sighed worriedly and said before he could stop himself, "Of course ya would ya gullible pred."
Dinobot snarled in offense, wincing a little. Rattrap frowned, helping Dinobot to sit up despite the mech trying to ignore him and pretend he didn't need help.
"Er. What happened...? Where's Megatron?"
Dinobot shook his helm in dismissal, looking almost guilty.
Rattrap stared at him confused and asked in disbelief, "You offlined him?"
Dinobot scoffed with difficulty, "No, he functions you idiotic rodent. I knocked him unconcious."
Rattrap glanced at Dinobot's frame, a particularly bad wound on Dinobot's chest. He wasn't sure if the wound was fatal, he was mostly sure it wasn't, but it had to be quite painful.
Rattrap sighed and frowned at Dinobot, growing angry.
He snapped unable to help himself, "Ya know, you're the idiotic one- you could of said no and we both woulda got out fine ya stubborn slagger."
Dinobot growled back, trying to move but his optics dimmed ever so slightly and he gave up, instead grumbling as it was a perfectly reasonable explanation, "I am not a coward."
"I know I called you stupid, you can be not a coward AND stupid."
"I'm smarter than you, rodent."
"HA- you wish reptile brain."
Dinobot snorted then his frame shuttered and he let out a funny growl, optics bright with pain. Rattrap's optics widened in alarm and he said worriedly, "Ehh, I think we ought to get ya back home into a restoration chamber."
Dinobot exhaled heavily, "I would not... be against the idea."
Rattrap stood slowly, offering his servo to Dinobot as he asked, "Can ya walk or do I have to drag your scaled butt back?"
Dinobot growled softly, eyeing Rattrap's servo hesitantly. Rattrap waited. Finally Dinobot extended his servo out, letting the smaller servo grip his large one. Rattrap grunted, pulling Dinobot up. Dinobot snarled lowly, and Rattrap could tell it was to mask his pain. Dinobot was standing now, though it looked like it might be difficult for him to get very far. Rattrap came over near him, touching his back and moving to help support him but a funny look flashed across Dinobot's face and he snarled, leaning away.
Rattrap snapped back, "Don't be difficult we needa get out of here or Megatron'll get back up and ACTUALLY slag you."
"Like you wouldn't want that rodent." Dinobot sneered.
Rattrap snapped back, "I wouldn't, chopperface."
Dinobot snorted exaggeratedly.
Rattrap rolled his optics and muttered, "Dumb lizard."
Dinobot ignored the insult and glanced over his shoulder wearily, muttering, "Megatron will not be unconcious for long."
Rattrap hummed softly and moved closer to Dinobot's side again attempting to give him support so they could leave.
Dinobot growled softly but complied this time, for the sake of escaping without further harm to either of them.
Rattrap made a small noise of approval and started to walk with the larger mech leaning into him awkwardly because of the height difference.
Dinobot spoke gruffly surprising Rattrap, "I am in your debt."
Rattrap glanced up at him confused and asked, "Are ya?"
Dinobot carefully said, "For fixing my audio receptors. You did a... commendable job."
The corners of Rattrap's mouth curved up slightly at the compliment and he said nonchalantly, "Ehh it was nothing. 'Sides, I'm pretty sure you saved my hide from ol Megatron back there so I'd say we're bouts even."
Dinobot grunted and looked away from him, gazing ahead.
Rattrap glanced at him as they walked, wondering what was going through the larger mech's processor.
He asked in a more serious note, eyeing Dinobot with consern, "...You doing okay chopperface?"
"I am functioning." He replied in a tone that suggested he was in fact not doing okay.
Rattrap chuckled and said quietly, being solemn, "Ya know, you had me worried there for a bit, heh. Thought Megatron had ya beat."
Dinobot glanced at Rattrap tiredly, a subtle glimpse of amusement in his optics as he lightly asked with a scoff, "Do you doubt my ability so much rodent?"
Rattrap thought back to when Megatron had Dinobot down, and could have killed him. He was defeated then. He frowned, muttering seriously, "He coulda slagged ya."
Dinobot sighed, gaze hardening again and he murmured back with a soft growl, "Yes, he should have."
Rattrap stopped walking abruptly, making Dinobot snarl in suprise, almost tripping and catching himself on Rattrap, gripping his shoulder.
Rattrap snapped with his optics bright as he glowered up at Dinobot, "Don't you say that you- you slagging-"
Dinobot growled back firmly narrowing his optics at Rattrap, "He won our duel, he had the right to end me."
Rattrap glared at him, bristling and upset.
"You'd rather be dead then alive, right now?"
Dinobot was silent, looking unsure.
"Well, no but-"
"Then shut up for Primus sake."
Dinobot growled softly at Rattrap's harsh tone but fell silent.
They made their way out of the Darkside in an uncomftble silence, Rattrap upset and Dinobot contemplating why. Rattrap was honestly a little confused with himself, not realizing before how much he cared about Dinobot. He remembered the fear he felt in the moment, the way he watched helplessly as Dinobot was nearly killed. The feeling was horrible, and he was enraged by Dinobot's weird unafraidness of death. He didn't understand it. Death terrified him, and so did losing people. And apparently losing Dinobot terrified him too. Which... was a lot to unload. When had he started caring so much about the stupid slagger?
A pained growl from Dinobot pulled him from his thoughts and he glanced to him.
Dinobot was staring to slow, looking awfully fatigued. Rattrap blinked in alarm and questioned, "Dinobutt?"
He muttered dismissively, "Hnnnggr. I'm fine rodent."
Rattrap made a face of disbelief and said sarcastically, "Yeah, and I'm a big ugly pred. Let's stop a minute I'll see if the comms are close enough to base to function."
Rattrap helped Dinobot to sit down and then brought his servo to his helm, opening a comm to base and saying, "Boss monkey? Rhinox? Spots? Anybody read me?"
There was only static in response.
"Slag." He muttered.
He glanced at Dinobot, fear gripping him for a moment as he noticed that his optics were offline.
Rattrap asked, not bothering to hide the worrying tone in his voice, "Ehh chopperface, ya sure you're okay? Cause I feel like you're just saying that n' not meaning it."
Dinobot onlined his optics looking to Rattrap. He admitted weakly, "Just... resting my optics rodent. No need for your continuous fretting. I am not close to permanently offlining, however... I fear I may fall into stasis in the next few cycles..."
Rattrap sighed anxiously, glancing back at the Darkside. At least they had made it a good distance away and under the cover of trees. But they were still in Predacon territory and had little ways to go before they were home free.
"Transforming to beastmode might help ya some." Rattrap said finally, despite knowing it wouldn't do much. Dinobot gave a short nod, jaw tight with tension. Dinobot transformed with a groan of effort, fairly slow in his transformation. The now raptor was laying on the floor, looking up at Rattrap. Rattrap glanced around at the sky and their surroundings before deciding they had enough cover so they would be fine to stop for a little while.
He knew it was probably wise to transform as well but decided against it. He wanted to be ready in the case that the Predacons came after them. Rattrap walked over beside Dinobot, sitting down and eyeing the raptor. Dinobot grunted, lowering his head and resting his chin on the ground. Rattrap stared at the back of Dinobot's neck where there was a bad wound, still leaking energon and organic blood. He reached out touching Dinobot's skin around it. Dinobot flinched at the touch and tensed, eyes darting to Rattrap wearily.
"I'm jus' gunna touch it up n try to patch it." Rattrap mumbled, glancing between the wound and Dinobot's careful gaze.
"Very well."
Dinobot rose his head from the ground, shifting and resting his chin on Rattrap's lap. Rattrap stared down in surprise at Dinobot. He must be pretty tired, cause Dinobot wasn't usually one for cooperatn'. Dinobot's eyes were closed and his breathing was rather out of wack. Rattrap felt a small wave of fear strike him. He was pretty sure none of Dinobot's injuries were fatal. But... still. That didn't stop him from worrying. He reached back out, starting to tend to the wound. Dinobot twitched and growled occasionally, but for the most part managed to hold still and let Rattrap help. Once Rattrap had the majority of the big wound patched up, he looked down the Raptor's body. He looked a little battered up, but nothing else too notable. Most of the damage was more visible in Dinobot's rootmode. Rattrap stroked Dinobot's head gently, not thinking before he did. He paused mid stroke, feeling Dinobot stir and growl softly. Dinobot quiet down and Rattrap did it again out of curiosity. Dinobot rumbled a low throaty growl that Rattrap took as a warning to back off. He pulled his servo away teasing softly, "Sheesh, use your words chopperface."
Dinobot let out a small huff. Dinobot rose his head bumping it against Rattrap's servo, grumbling tiredly, "Actions speak louder than words, you Maximals would be wise to learn that."
Rattrap stared in surpise and replied, "Eh, maybe."
He slowly started to pet Dinobot's head again, and he rest his head back in Rattrap lap, rumbling softly again. Rattrap smiled in amusement at the little growl. He supposed it wasn't all that different from how Cheetor purred sometimes.
Rattrap snorted teasing, "Needy pred."
Dinobot made an irritated noise, snapping, "You touched me first, rodent."
Rattrap sighed in pretend defeat, "Yeah, I suppose I did."
A couple minutes of silence pasted. Rattrap wondered if Dinobot was offline or not.
"Hnr. Rattrap."
Rattrap nearly jumped at Dinobot speaking, and the fact that he actually used his name.
"Yeah?"
"...I..." Dinobot seemed like he was having difficulty in speaking but continued, "...Apologize."
Rattrap's servo stilled. He wasn't sure exactly what Dinobot was apologizing for. Sure, he owed Rattrap plenty, but for what reason did Dinobot believe he was apologizing for? He tried to wait for Dinobot to explain himself but it never came.
Rattrap felt strange at the apology. It was very rarely the warrior admitted he was in the wrong or made a mistake.
Rattrap eventually said, "Huh, okay."
He kept his servo resting on Dinobot's head, not having it in him to keep petting the raptor. Dinobot exhaled loudly, and about a minute later his frame seemed to loose it's tenseness entirely. Rattrap rose his servo away, making a fist and gently bonking Dinobot's head. The raptor didn't react at all.
"Slag." He cursed softly.
Rattrap winced in alarm as he heard distant gunfire, turning his helm to gaze over. From where he sat he could only see firepower blasting from one area to another. His optics widened hopefully, relief consuming him. That had to be his pals. He brought his digit to his helm, speaking into a close range comm, "Fearless leader, that you?"
"Rattrap!" Optimus voice came, sounding suprised.
"Oh am I glad to hear you big monkey, been having quite the field day."
"Where are you? Is Dinobot with you?"
"Hiding out in the forest, and yeah, chopperface is wit me but he's offline, needs a CR chamber ASAP, he was messed up pretty bad."
"We'll be over as soon as we deal with Megatron's welcoming party."
"Don't take too long boss."
He ended the comm, sighing in relief.
He pat Dinobot head and said, "I got ya chopperface, you'll be all right in a nanoclick. Optimus' and the others are on their way ta save your scaled butt."
While he waited he checked his own internal systems, pleased to find he made it out pretty much uninjured beside a slight headache from getting knocked out. The only other issue was that he left his gun behind in the pred base, having forgotten it in the heat of the moment. Rattrap tensed, hearing the sound of footsteps approaching. He ducked slightly, reaching out and touching Dinobot's side protectively gazing toward the approaching bot warily.
"Rattrap?" A young worried voice called.
Rattrap relaxed at Cheetor's voice and called back, "Kid! Over 'ere!"
Cheetor appeared from behind some bushes, in root mode. His optics widened and he exclaimed as he walked to him with a grin, "Rattrap! I'm sure glad to see you!"
Rattrap smiled in tired relief, "The feelin's mutual pussycat."
Cheetor glanced down at Dinobot tilting his helm and asking in alarm, "Is Dinobot...?"
"He's alright, jus' offline."
"Oh, good. Um. Were you guys cuddling...?"
Rattrap felt his faceplates warm in embarrassment, glancing down at Dinobot. It sure did look like that was the case. But it defiently wasn't. Right? This didn't count. 'Course he wouldn't be cuddly with the overgrown lizard.
He laughed awkwardly, shoving Dinobot's head off his lap, standing up and brushing off his thighs.
He scoffed loudly, faceplates flushed, "Me? Cuddle up with a pred? Don't be ridiculous spots, I was jus' fixing tha wound on 'is neck was all."
Cheetor smiled at him with an amused twinkle in his optics, "Whatever you say rat-face."
Rattrap scowled, giving him a gentle scolding (and playful) whack. Cheetor dodged it and laughed a little, walking to Dinobot and grunting as he scooped up the raptor. Dinobot hung in his arms limply, though still functioning.
"Big bot is keeping the preds busy, let's skedaddle."
"Don't needa tell me twice."
Dinobot's first thought was that he was having deja vu. He was onlining back in a CR chamber only 3 days after the first time he had when he went deaf. But this time, he heard muffle voices speaking, then he heard the CR chamber letting off hisses and clicks as it worked. He relaxed, not bothering to online his optics yet. Last he recalled he was with Rattrap in Predacon territory. The others must have arrived to help. Or perhaps Rattrap dragged him all the way back. He doubted that though, not because he thought Rattrap was lazy, but because it was a long distance to haul someone twice your size. Dinobot's optics onlined, and he reached to the manual open lever, pulling it. The CR chamber started to open, hissing. Dinobot held back from smiling at the familar sound.
Optimus spoke as he stepped out, "Dinobot, you're online."
He growled pleased, "Yes, it appears I am. And my audio receptors function properly, once more."
Optimus smiled at him.
"I'm glad to hear."
"How long have I been offline?" He questioned.
Cheetor spoke up cheerfully, "About a day, big lizard."
He was over by one of the computers, sitting in a spinny chair.
Dinobot glanced at him growling, "I should have been woken sooner."
Optimus interrupted, "Any sooner and your systems wouldn't be repaired enough. You sustained a lot of damage in your battle with Megatron."
Dinobot frowned at him, grunting and knowing he was probably right. He wasn't suprised they knew about his duel with Megatron. He was sure the rodent smugly informed them of his near defeat.
Speaking of the vermin, he asked, "Where are Rattrap and Rhinox?"
Optimus said, "They are out setting up more motion sensors in grid 2, as a precaution."
"I see."
"You're welcome to join me and Cheetor with monitor duty."
Dinobot grunted and walked over, taking a spot at one of the computers. They all fell into comfortable silence, Dinobot relieved he could hear small noises around him and the voices of his companions. While he worked his thoughts wondered to Rattrap. He never thought he would end up saving the vermin that he thought he despised. The thought of the rodent suffering had awoken something deep down, an instinct to react quick and sudden with unexplainable rage. He had suprised himself frankly. Then after... it was strange to see Rattrap worrying about him. At first he thought Rattrap was mocking him by it or insulting him in his weakened state. But he had realized, Rattrap was genuinely concerned. It came as a shock, but in retrospect he felt like an idiot for not realizing sooner. Rattrap cared about him.
He felt his spark catch in his throat, a warm nervousness burrowing in his stomach. He clenched his fist, growling wearily at the foreign feeling. He blamed it on the Maximals, for making him feel these weird fluffy Maximal emotions. He slammed his fist down on the computer in frustration, with enough restraint as to not destroy it but it made a loud noise.
He could feel Optimus and Cheetor look to his back in suprise.
"I will return briefly." He muttered, rising and leaving the command center hearing Cheetor call after him, "Cya Dinobot."
Dinobot walked slowly through the Axalon wearing a scowl. If anyone accused him of sulking he would deny it, thought he was. Frankly, he was frustrated with stupid Maximal emotions making him feel all funny. Expecially because he didn't understand it or why he felt so weird when he started to think about the vermin. Irritating rodent.
Why did Rattrap behave so odd? Why was he gentle and kind to Dinobot, who he so often declared he couldn't stand? Soft in one moment, snarky the next. He supposed he was a hypocrite to question Rattrap, considering his own contradictary actions regarding the smaller mech.
For a while now he supposed their banter hadn't been as sharp and cold as it used to. It tended to be more playful, the back and forth smack talk sort of enjoyable. It was one of the main constants in Dinobot's life, he and Rattrap being at one another's throats.
Dinobot stopped walking, growling thoughtfully. Maybe it was best to stop thinking about it and just focus on moving forward. It probably didn't matter that much. He was sure the unusual feeling would go away eventually on it's own if he repressed it enough, then things could go back to normal between him and Rattrap and he could forget about the whole experience. Because by the Inferno, he wanted to forget how he still longed for Rattrap to touch him like he did again. He wanted to forget the nervous warm feeling making him sick. He didn't want to care for the Maximal who's thoughts and morals gravely contradicted his own. But he did. And Rattrap cared about him, too. Deep down he knew, something between them had inevitably changed.