[ti]Ep 2[/ti]It's not a total CATastrophe [Closed]

[Bumblebee]

--Nooooo! I didn't.. Aah!! Noo!--

Bumblebee couldn't help but laugh inbetween feigned pained-sounding beeps. He knew Jazz was just playing with no intention of hurting him. But still! Noogies hurt! Ow! His attempts at pushing the other Mech off him didn't seem to be working either. Curse being in this position!!

--Uncleee!! Uncle! I don't know why I'm sayin' that, but uncleeeee!!--

There was more beepy laughter. He liked that Jazz treated him like a kid sometimes. That he didn't expect Bumblebee to act the part of an adult all the time, nor did he seem to judge Bee for not doing so. Sure Bee could be serious, and more often than not? He was. He took things almost too seriously at times, and took a lot of pride in his work and what he did, but he also enjoyed being a kid – which meant messing around and goofing off sometimes.

It just enforced with Bee that Jazz was maybe someone he could hang out with a little more when things were a little slower around the base. Jazz liked music – loud music – so maybe he'd be interested in some of the cartoons that Bumblebee watched with Raf, as he seemed to be interested in human media. Having more bot-friends around the base might be nice, since Raf wasn't there all the time.

Once he was released from Jazz's grip and the painful noogie had ceased, he'd raise a servo to rub the top of his head. A whir of a hum escaped him as he was asked what was next, and he'd peer around the room to find where Onion had gotten to. He'd been too busy beep-squealing to notice the cat run under the bed, but his attention was quickly drawn there by the low growls and hissing.

--I aah.. Not sure! I mean we could try and push our luck, keep Onion in here till someone finds out about him? Oooor.. We could do the right thing which is... Go and find Optimus and ask if we can keep the lil guy around.--

He vented out a small sigh. Maybe Optimus would be in a good mood. Maybe seeing his old friend would make him lean more toward letting Bee keep the cat. That's if Jazz thought it was a good idea, anyway. Bumblebee was all for trying to hide Onion for as long as possible.

[Jazz]

     "Ya realize with the way security is set up around here that someone probably already knows about your feline compadre, right? Ain't not point to tryin' to hide the fella. I'm pretty sure keepin' this kinda info away from OP ain't gonna score ya any brownie points."

     Jazz gave a bit of a shrug and tilted his helm slightly as he tried to look under the berth towards the sounds of what was clearly not happy noises. All the movement from the saboteur was most likely the source of the issue since the cat had seemed a little uncertain about a new location and then all of a sudden things jerking around before he had time to settle in. Well, hopefully the feline wouldn't give itself a spark attack before Bee had a chance to make sure he could at least keep it. Though if it managed to hide so well under a berth in a rather small space such as this living quarter, Jazz could only imagine how difficult it would be to try and locate it around base with all the ducts and miscellaneous things it could wiggle its way into.

     He straightened himself out and motioned with his helm to the door. "No point in delayin' it further, lil guy. Lets go see the Big Show and get this fiasco over with." He opened the door to the quarters and stepped out of the room then let the door close behind him. Keeping the cat in was key at the moment and if he left it open he didn't count on the animal not making a run for it. So he stood out in the middle of the hall and waited on Bee to come along and lead them to Optimus.

     Like he'd said. Best to get this over with.
     Especially since this probably wouldn't work out to the favor of the kid.

[Bumblebee]

Bumblebee would shift so he was laying down, optics wide as he peered under the berth and looked at the cat. Why was it still making those weird hissy noises? He'd do a quiet, chirpy beep as if to reassure the tiny animal but it did nothing. Seems Onion was content to stay hidden under the berth for right now, hissing and spitting. The cats back was arched and his tail had doubled in size.

For such a tiny thing it sure was angry. Then again Bumblebee could have quite the temper sometimes, and he was relatively small for his kind!

Jazz's words made Bumblebee frown, pulling himself up so he was sitting. His door wings wilted some. While he didn't want to admit it, Jazz was probably right. With Red Alert being the way he was? He probably already knew about Onion and was making moves to get rid of the cat already. Unless Bumblebee spoke to Optimus first, that was... Maybe there was still a chance he could keep the little guy.

--I guess ya right,-- He vented out a sigh. --We should get this outta the way, the sooner the ask the better it'll be!-- He still had high hopes that he'd be allowed to keep the tiny organic. If he promised to feed it and water it and... Whatever else cats needed. He had no idea. The point was? He'd look after it and keep it out of trouble!

He'd wait until Jazz had left the room before pulling himself up to his pedes. Another affectionate chirpy beep at Onion to let him know he'd be back soon and not to worry, before he'd quickly open the door and moving through it, before closing it behind him. He hoped Onion would be okay on his own! He was such a tiny little thing – hopefully there was nowhere in Bee's room that he could use as an escape route, such as a vent.

--Okay, lets go find Optimus!-- He hummed, although his field flickered briefly with worry. Maybe they should've cat proofed the room before leaving, but it was too late for that now.

Making his way down the corridor which he'd hurried down before, he led Jazz into the control room. Thankfully they didn't have to look too far for the Prime, as he'd at some point made his way into the control room and was now studying the many monitors.

Bee would hastily make his way over to the Prime, standing at attention.

--Optimus, Sir!-- He'd beep firmly, nodding. He suddenly found himself at a loss for words. How to even approach this? Getting to keep a pet was a big deal, and he had to do this just right. Maybe it'd be better if Jazz asked, given that he and Optimus were old friends... But... Onion was Bumblebee's cat.

--Just got back from givin' Jazz a tour of Jasper, aaaaand we found a little friend. Uh. A cat, actually. Called Onion,-- Maybe if he said that cats name, it'd earn some kind of sympathy points. --Anyway, we brought him back to base and he's now in my quarters. Uh. I was wondering if I could keeeeep him?--

He'd rub the back of his neck. There were times when it was painfully obvious just how young Bumblebee was, and this was one of them.

--I promise to look after the lil guy!-- He beeped hopefully. --Please?--

He hoped Jazz would back him up on this!

[Optimus Prime]

So many things to do.

So many things to put in line.

The truce was going to be one heck of an ordeal, and it was barely underway. He had individuals he still needed to inform, and he had a meeting already set in place for Fowler and others later in the day. They needed to compile all of their data on MECH in order to supply it to the Neutral location of Haven, while also fortifying and locking down on their own defenses to come up with new parameters to ensure no one unintentionally brings back a Decepticon trap or tracker after interacting with them on even terms. He had to work with people's grievances, and handle their concerns, giving them the time to display their worries properly so they did not feel invalid, which consumed and ate into his own time.

That was why when Bumblebee approached he didn't instantly turn to look. He expected another grievance, another concern. While he would honor it, he was in no particular rush to stop what he was doing when so much hinged upon getting this information out there for more eyes to fall upon and consider.

Optimus stood before the control panel of the primary room, typing away quickly to jot down notes, and move files and information into a collected bundle. Pages of text and images flickered briefly upon the screen while he screened them for compromising information, glimpses of abandoned MECH facilities, video files of a femme being tortured, information on Breakdown's eye and the fact they had tapped into it to make it a two way feed, medical charts from Air Raid. Everything they had and knew... He reached a hand up to pluck a few keys to swipe a file aside, just as Bumblebee continued to speak, and he finally disengaged from the work.

Easing back, the Prime's heavy armored leg lifted just enough to place behind him a short distance so that he could turn to look down at Bumblebee, noticing the anxiousness that flicked around him like a subtle aura. He didn't comment at first, observing, watching, perhaps a bit confused that the scout wasn't complaining about the Truce like so many others... no... he had given Jazz a tour, and was inquiring about an... animal...?

The first thing to take into account was Jazz.

That was a name he had not heard of for many years, one that went back through time further than he served as Prime. Jazz was a unique soul, and one that had helped and walked with him through thick and thin through their long lives, but... he simply hadn't had a chance to speak with him since his arrival to earth despite hearing of it days ago. Too much was happening. Too much swarming at once. Time slipped away like sand between fingers, and now he was face to face with this situation that needed a social tact and skill he did not possess.

It had been too long since he had seen the other Cybertronian, but from what he could tell, they had not changed at all. Something about his posture, his armor, the way he just carried himself or the field he had around him. It was numbingly familiar and threw him back in time with flecks of nostalga. But while Jazz seemed so stable and the same at first glance, Optimus himself felt so different. The war weighing upon his shoulders, settled into his new frame that clashed violently with what he had once been. They had seen each other since that transformative day, but he truly lived the part now, and it no longer seemed like he wore the mesh of another.

He would have considered speaking to Jazz, words of greeting, of thankfulness he was still alive, but all he managed was a soft nod in his direction of acknowledgment before Bumblebee was talking about an organic creature. This... this moment brought him back suddenly to the day Arcee and Bumblebee called in about the human children, and how ugly that had gone so fast. The difference however, was that the children were known by the cons, and could be used as weapons against them, while also being sentient enough to learn rules, and know how to stay out of the way. Mostly. Miko had to learn that a bit better... but point was there was no place here for things that could end up crushed one day from blind ignorance, and chew on objects of value.

"Bumblebee..."

He started, the name rolling out softly as he already could tell the scout was attached to the animal. Bee had named it already even, which was the biggest mistake he could have made. Optimus also didn't miss the name choice, not fully understanding WHY it was called that, but choosing to let it slide by without question since it was a young Cybertronian that dubbed it. Either way, his tone of voice conveyed much. Some skepticism, but mostly sadness, not wanting to obliterate Bee's hope... but the fact of the matter was this was a near impossible sell.

[Jazz]

     The sight of his long-time friend was a relief. Sure, he knew that Optimus was still functioning after all this while, since word otherwise would have traveled through the systems quite quickly, but to see him with his own optics (well, sort of anyway ) was something that could not be put into words. It was an indescribable feeling, one that would have had Jazz giving the big bad Autobot Leader a good friendly jab and greeting if not been for the situation at hand. They'd have time for talk later, when he could properly address his old friend and question the age that was clearly evident on his frame. For now it was about Bee. 

     Poor Bee. Jazz already knew what outcome this meeting was going to have even before they had arrived. He had wanted to keep the young scout's hopes up since he seemed to have gotten an attachment to the creature and named it, brought it home and bonded with it rather well )as well as the feral little animal hissing and hiding off under the berth like it was ready to carve names into faceplates could be considered ) Didn't seem like it was gonna go as well as Bee would have hoped. As though Jazz's presence would have swayed the logic and thorough thought process of their leader! Hadn't before with a much more serious nature, so something more simple as this?

     Yeah, it was gonna be a bumpy ride that the kid was just gonna need to learn. If they were allowed outside, not hidden away from the sights of the inhabitants of the planet or needing to watch over their shoulders for Decepticons? Maybe that would have made the outcome more in Bee's favor. If his old friend was anything like how he last remembered him, then Jazz still knew a bit of how Optimus's wheels turned with the greater good and all that... ( well, Jazz. All that Jazz ) and figured that the next words would be some form of 'you have to remove it from the base'. Heck, the tone that he just said the Scout's designation in was enough to hint to that for those sensitive enough to pick it up! Jazz would give it a go anyway, though. Maybe ease the hurt from any blunt stab to the spark? For the kid's sake.

     Anyone else in their Leader's presence probably would have stayed quiet to avoid being the middle of what could turn into a nasty sting. Staying quiet and unseen, though? This was Jazz you were talking about. Quiet? Hardly in his dictionary! The kid had made a good enough argument to let him keep it but Optimus was still the final say. He'd throw in his two cents, at least, stand for the little guy and hope that at least the blow wouldn't be too crippling to Bumblebee's tender little spark.

     "Uh, OP? This is on me, man, sorry. I told him to bring the critter home." Jazz took a step forward when he spoke, bringing himself to Bee's side as he looked up at their leader. "Came crawlin' outta no where! Looked like it needed some company and some good grub." He reached out a servo and laid it on Bee's helm while keeping his sights on Optimus. What could he say? He had a soft spot for the little yellow speedster! Having something smaller than him around the base that he could keep as his own for a little while couldn't hurt, right? At least he wouldn't be cooped up by himself in his quarters when the human children Jazz heard about weren't around. "Can he keep it? Just for now, at least... until we find it a good home. Can't expect it to be thrown out in the street again, right? Doubt it'd survive out there long." 

[Bumblebee]

Bumblebee had his own thoughts and opinions about the truce. Everyone did. Some had been more vocal than others with their concerns and worries, but Bumblebee had been oddly silent over the entire thing. Oh he cared very much about it, and the nice fist sized dent in his wall which he'd covered up with a scrap of metal showed how much, and gave some indication as to what he thought of the situation. He wasn't happy that they were teaming up with the Decepticons. After everything their enemy had done? How could they be trusted to uphold a truce? They couldn't!

He did, however, trust their Prime. Which was why he wouldn't complain nor air his grievances to him. Mostly because he knew Optimus had enough to worry about without another whining to him, but he also knew it would solve nothing. The truce was in place, and Bumblebee getting angry about it wouldn't change it. Optimus knew what was best, and it was true that MECH were a very real threat to both sides of the Cybertronian war.

His gaze had shifted briefly to the monitors as he'd made his way into the room, but he wouldn't let his optics linger on the various files that were on display. Then he might find himself distracted from his mission, which was to keep Onion! That and it would make the truce and everything else feel more real, and he didn't want his emotions to get the better of him. He'd wait patiently until Optimus turned, not wanting to rush him – even though he'd already no doubt broken the Prime's concentration by just speaking excitedly without being addressed.

Optimus' single word... Which happened to be Bee's name, made the scout suddenly feel even smaller than he already was. Not because Optimus spoke down to him, nothing like that.. He just knew then and there that he probably wouldn't be able to keep the cat. Still, you couldn't blame him for trying.

He didn't get a chance to reply, or to plead his case further – as no sooner had Optimus spoken, Jazz was by Bumblebee's side giving his input on the matter – he'd shift his gaze to the other mech at feeling his servo on his helm, before turning back to look at the Prime and nodding as Jazz spoke. He let Jazz finish, and he actually had a glimmer of hope after what'd been said. While he wouldn't let Jazz take the fall for things should they get into trouble for bringing Onion back to base, as Bee had asked if he could keep it and Jazz had told him to ask Optimus to make the final call, he did bring up a good point in that the little guy wouldn't survive long out there on his own. He didn't even know how such a tiny thing had survived so far from the town – maybe someone had thrown him from their vehicle. Either way, Onion was tough and a survivor like Bee, which was probably why he'd warmed to the cat so fast!

--Yeah! He was all by himself!-- He'd nod eagerly, as if hearing this would sway Optimus' opinion in Bumblebee's favor. --And he really wouldn't survive out there, poor little guy was terrified! He'd be super safe here!--

His optics would whir as he peered up at Optimus, and while he didn't have high hopes? He hoped that what they'd said would be enough to change the Prime's mind on the matter.

[Optimus Prime]

No... no Jazz... stop...

It was no secret between the two Cybertronian, that Jazz knew how to manipulate him to some extent. No, it wasn't the type of manipulation that a Decepticon would do, Optimus wasn't blind and being pushed in a new direction by Jazz's words, but he was being steered and he saw where it was going. It was a weird two punch strike that hit him hard from different directions, first being actually hearing Jazz's voice.

Memories, nostalgia, the tone of voice and pitches along the way. Lighthearted and bold with no filtering to hold back what he had to say. This was the Jazz he knew, and it seemed like the thousands of years hadn't even passed between them. This white and blue mech transported through time to plunk into this situation, as if this was back on Cybertron and Bumblebee had found a mechanic feline bounding through the busy streets. In a way it made him feel smaller a moment, a nagging reminder of days past that didn't affect him externally, but was an odd experience he had not felt in some time.

The second punch came with the argument.

Jazz spun the situation to paint him as a bad guy. If he were to evict the feline it would be essentially sending the cat to its death. This was not hard to see honestly, for if they let 'Onion' out into the Nevada wilderness, it would die of dehydration before it could get anywhere with humans, or a coyote or other predator would make a snack out of it. If they took it to a city and let it free, a car or other obstacle such as a stray dog could make a bad situation worse. They could take it to a shelter, get it someplace where it could try to find a home, but Optimus has overheard the television when those commercials play, and knew well that many of them frankly never would find sanctuary.

After this, Bumblebee spoke up to add onto Jazz's foundation. The scout built up what was placed, and tried to further urge Optimus down the path they pointed him in. The Prime watched their interactions, watched the way Jazz and Bee got along, their Fields, their body language, they both meant so much good in their actions... but they were misguided. It was only after Bee mentioned how safe it would be here, that Optimus finally spoke.

"The outpost is not a safe haven for such a small creature."

His words were calculated, calm, trying to use logic over emotion to show Bumblebee that while the wilderness around them was death to the cat, that the Omega Outpost also wasn't a secure place. Animals cannot learn to get out of the way adequately, and could get stepped on. They could become trapped somewhere and perish, lost in such a large environment, or chew on or eat something noxious or poisonous. The children wouldn't gnaw on wires... but a feline may, or is that rodents... Some animals chew on things and point is if they took down their shields by clipping the wrong lines, they'd all be dead.

He wasn't heartless though.

"Perhaps one of the children are in need of a companion?"

Optimus offered this idea with a light uplift to his tone, trying to urge Bee in this direction. He also wanted it to take some of the sting away. It was apparent the cat would not be allowed to stay, this home being a military outpost. But... if the humans were to adopt the cat, then it could possibly come to visit under the children's supervision on harness. Allow Bumblebee to see the cat grow and mature, without needing to worry about its every waking moment, or lock it in a small room where it couldn't even look outside a window.

[Jazz]

     Jazz had already figured out that the cat wasn't going to be allowed, and hearing the simple statements from Optimus made it a sure thing.

     A servo plunked on Bee's helm and turned slightly in a playful ruffle. "Optimus has a valid point, kiddo. If it got caught up under one of our pedes while one of us was rushin' around and not paying attention and it didn't move out fast enough? That would break your spark more than anythin'." Jazz, lightsparked as always, smiled to his little friend and pushed his helm forward a bit as though preparing to put him in another helm lock like he had while they were in Bee's quarters. He was making the situation as softened blow-wise as possible since he already knew the little yellow bot had fallen for the feline.

     "Ya know, one of the humans here may be okay with takin' care of the cat. I'm sure they wouldn't mind lettin' ya visit and... well... 'carin'.. for it in a way. Then it can be like your pet but just not at this place. That may work out for the best. You can keep an optic on him but not have to worry that he'll get lost or hurt around here. Or, ya know, messin' up some serious scrap around here that'll get us in major trouble with Red." He grinned, figuring that the kid could probably imagine the fiasco they'd be involved in should the cat get into Red's office and mess up something. Or, heck, just get in there period. They would probably be able to hear the hollering through the entire base no matter where they were without the need of the comm.

     The fact that it was a possible security risk? Yeah, he didn't feel like even thinking about that. Or bringing it up for that matter. One thing at a time, and that wasn't as important as making sure Bee's spirits were kept up. He liked Bee... sort of reminded him of himself, back in a different place, different time. Back when something like this wouldn't have been chalked up to 'security risk' between he and the Prime.

     "How's that sound, Scout? I can go with ya if that'll help."

[Bumblebee]

Any and all hope Bumblebee had of keeping Onion around – which admittedly wasn't that much, as it was a huge thing to ask – shattered when Optimus went on to say that the outpost wasn't safe for him.

He'd been overly optimistic – hoping that he'd be allowed to keep the little guy around as long as he followed certain rules. Like keeping it in his quarters, and only his quarters. But the more he thought on that? Well, that wasn't exactly kind, or ideal for an animal. Sure Onion would get a whole bunch of attention and love from Bee – not that he could even really pet the thing due to his size - but he could've made awesome toys and playthings for him! He would've been safe in one room, too! Except Bee was forgetting that cats... Pretty much did whatever they wanted. If Onion didn't want to stay in Bee's quarters? Then he wouldn't. His plan of keeping Onion confined would've been trashed on day one, no doubt. Hell who even knew if the cat was still in there right now!

There was also the fact that Bee's room had no windows. Not that the terrain was much to look at outside, but there was no sunshine or natural light, no birds for Onion to look at – the occasional lizard or tumbleweed, sure, but...

Sigh.

Optimus' next words made him perk up a little before sadness seemed to level him out once more. There was no way that Raf would be able to keep Onion. His parents had too much going on at their busy household with Raf and his other siblings to take on the responsibility of a cat, plus the fact he was probably allergic. Miko? Noooo. She'd dress Onion up in stupid outfits and the cat would be miserable – if he'd even be allowed, her host parents were probably super strict!! Then there was Jack... Who was super busy with school, and he seemed more like a dog person.

Maybe Fowler? He could use something cute around. Maybe it'd make him less cranky. Noo... He wouldn't. He was way too busy for a start. There had to be someone else.

Before he could think too long on it, his attention was drawn away by Jazz's servo plunking onto his helm and he'd glance up some to look at the other mech.

--Yeah... I guess ya right, Jazz.-- He mumbled, still obviously bummed out by it all. Ugh Jazz why did you have to say that. Bee hadn't even had that thought cross his processor, and now it's all he could think about! While he knew it wasn't safe due to how small the cat was compared to Cybertronian, his processor hadn't even fabricated the thought of Onion getting smushed. He appreciated Jazz's playful actions, although would sidestep and away as not to get himself caught in another headlock.

--I don't think any of the children can take him, they're all busy with school and stuff ya know?-- There was also the stuff that he'd thought about earlier, but studies came before raising and caring for an animal. Or something. --And Fowler is probably way too busy, too!--

There was Nell... But... She was a fiery little thing. Who swore a lot. And threatened to throw wrenches!! He'd only met her for the first time last week, and this seemed like a huge thing to just dump on someone you'd only just met! He'd glance to nod at Jazz, before turning back to Optimus – shifting so he was stood up a little straighter.

--I guess Jazz and I will go find Nell and ask her about it!-- He rubbed the back of his neck. --Although what should we do if she says no?--

It was a big ask, after all - and she might've been too busy as well. 

[Optimus Prime]

Thankfully, Jazz seemed to clutch down onto reason, and steer the manipulation and guidance against Bumblebee now, to ease him into a solution that could appease both sides of the metaphorical coin. Optimus didn't want to be the villain outright, and make a hard stop to the situation, but he also knew this wasn't something he could be lenient upon. They couldn't just put the cat in a cage like a rodent, and assume it would be alright long term... Alas, they still had options to go through before he would have to tell Bee to go online and find the nearest no-kill shelter that was accepting drop-offs.

It made sense that the children would probably not be able to take the feline, but it was always worth a mention if the subject were to come up. That said, with Bee's thoughts on it made public, the best options may just be Fowler and Nel. Fowler was so busy however, but a feline could be therapeutic as a de-stressor after a long day. Cats were solitary creatures if he could recall correctly, so long days alone as long as there were toys and windows should be ok... alas... Nel was probably the most opportune option.

Nel was an aggressive human, swearing and throwing things in a way that would come off as abrasive and careless. She could easily be painted as someone that would brush off the animal, to allow her to continue on with her days and actions without intrusion, but Optimus did not believe everything at surface value. She was a female within what appeared to be a male dominated establishment, even if the humans were working hard for equality. She likely had to use such crassness and boldness to make her mark, and intimidate others to not treat her below her true worth. But even if this itself wasn’t true, and was all assumptions, the fact was that Ratchet also could be abrasive, and Optimus knew it could be a front. If Nel was willing to do this, the feline would be tended to well, and it would possibly be another friend for the human outside of the outpost.

If she said no?... well they still had options before a shelter.

"Black Rock knows of our kind, and has many active soldiers on its premises."

Optimus spoke calmly, his weight shifting a bit to roll his mass onto his other limb so he did not sit stagnant too long.

"I believe one would be willing to assist you."

Handing the cat over to one of the many soldiers upon the base meant that the critter would be going to a secure home and would not be killed in the wilderness or in a shelter, but it also meant that updates on its progress and visits would be... difficult to arrange. It would all hinge upon the individuals willingness to work with Bumblebee, or if they were even permitted such contact to begin with. This all ignored the very obvious language barrier they had between them, and the fact Bee would have to find time to not only speak to the person, but have another bot or Raf there to translate between them. But if it was limited to no visitation... verses never knowing what would happen to the animal?... well... the option was clear...

Optimus then shifted the subject partly to the side, figuring that what needed to be said about the cat was done. His attention locked down onto Jazz.

"I assume Bumblebee has been showing you around?"

[Jazz]

     Jazz still felt bad that Bee wouldn't be able to keep his beloved little feline, but he was still determined to make sure he would find a good human for it to go off with where he could check on it from time to time since... well... it sort of was Bee's cat. He just wasn't able to care for it. That didn't mean that he couldn't see it. That was at least the part Jazz was more concerned with. He may eventually forget about it for Jazz figured the initial tearing of the animal from Bee's arms wouldn't be very good for his psyche.

     Lots of active soldiers. Plenty of opportunity. It was a formula for something perfect to work out.

     "Don't worry, Kiddo. If she says no? We'll still find someone who will take him. And we'll figure out a way for ya to visit it, at least to check up on 'im. Like OP said; lots of possibilities for the tiny thing. He'll have a great home either way." Bee wasn't going to escape him this time. Jazz clamped his servo right on the young scout's helm and ruffled it. He wouldn't put him in a helm lock this time but this was just as good to him. "So cheer up, tyke! It'll be fine, man. You'll see!"

     They're little moment was interrupted by Optimus and Jazz pulled his servo away to keep his attention fully on their leader. The question? Oh, it brought a smile to Jazz's faceplate!

     "Ya bet he has! Best darn scout I've been escorted around by in a while! Reminds me of myself when I was still scoutin' for you... though he's got some sweeter wheels than I ever did."

[Bumblebee]

Bumblebee had totally forgotten about Black Rock, and so Optimus' words made him stand up a little straighter, lowering his arm back to his side with a nod. That might be better than asking Nell. Nell would be just as busy as Fowler no doubt, considering she was quite often at the Omega Base – which was probably quite the privilege. The soldiers at Black Rock would have families and children, and that way Onion could have a companion of his own! Nell probably wouldn't be able to bring the cat here, and he didn't want Onion being bored by himself...

While Bumblebee probably wouldn't be able to go visit the cat – at least he'd feel a little better knowing that it was with someone who could give him the attention he deserved. Bee was anything but selfish, and at the end of the day? He just wanted Onion to go to a good home and to be happy.

--Maaaaybe we'll skip her and just ask around Black Rock. More people there and all, plus Nell doesn't seem like a cat type of person.-- He beeped quietly, as if thinking on it and considering every little last detail. There would be more options there, more soldiers, more chances for someone to take him in. If it did go to someone with a child, maybe Raf could make a new friend and he could get updates on Onion over video chat or something.

He was thinking too much into it, all he knew is he wanted Onion to be safe. He was pulled from his thoughts by the ruffling on his helm and he'd beepily-yelp, fluttering his doorwings and playfully swatting at Jazz. However just as Jazz straightened up at Optimus' question? So did Bumblebee.

He hadn't exactly been the best tour guide this morning – he'd wanted a day to himself and had been watching cartoons when he'd been pulled away for the tour, so his attitude might not've been the best. And for the briefest moment, he was worried that Jazz would tell Optimus this. So when Jazz smiled and said what he did? Bee rubbed the back of his neck and whirred out a half-laugh.

--Was just doin' my job! Showed him around Jasper and a little bit of the base,-- He affirmed, glancing up at Jazz – his smile hidden behind his mouthguard. --And pff, people were staring at you more than me! Then again they're used to seeing me around I guess!--

[Optimus Prime]

Things seemed to be properly diffused then, and Bumblebee, while upset, wasn’t absolutely crushed. The animal was going to very likely go to a safe and secure home, and the young scout would rest assured that Onion won't be lost in the streets any longer. Optimus could only hope this didn't become a routine issue however, for stray animals were abundant, and even many stray felines weren’t truly strays to begin with... But that was a situation to be crossed later on if it were to arise. He hoped Bee didn’t start a hobby of tracking down lost critters with intent to try to keep.

Either way, it was good that not only did things seem to be settled, but Jazz and Bumblebee were getting along with one another. Joyful, joking around, no awkwardness in play as much as he could see. It was no surprise however, both were very outgoing and open to newcomers, and the transition would not be a difficult one from stranger to acquaintance.

"That is good to hear."

While he did not say much regarding the interaction, and his statement was short and clipped down, it didn’t mean he wasn't sincere in the slightest. Optimus just wasn't a very wordy individual, and did not speak to fill in gaps or create small talk very well. It was an issue that breached back before he was Prime and held the Matrix, though it may have gotten a bit worse since then in certain situations...

Turning away from the two, Optimus clicked a few things upon the keyboard on the control system, opening up communications and readying a call to be made to Blackrock. He did not connect the line yet, the screen just displaying the image of their Human contact there, and some basic information about him in case someone who was unfamiliar with the man was tasked to speak to him. Perhaps it was a bit pushy to already be ready to contact the base and get this rolling... but... it was better to tear off the metaphorical bandaid than it was to let Bee get more and more attached to what he cannot keep.

"I can contact Lieutenant Mercer to let him know your plans."

An offer, trying to push this along as gently as he could, with as much social tact that Optimus normally held.

[Jazz]

     Bee had reminded him so much of himself when he was younger that it was almost uncanny. He was glad that the results of the war hadn't altered the young ones too much from what he could tell, at least on the surface. Jazz knew they weren't as conditioned to it as the older ones such as himself and Optimus had been, where they had seen the slow transition of what it was to what it became. This was sudden, brash and... almost traumatizing for ones who were sparked right in the middle of it. Really, Jazz couldn't understand why anyone would want someone so young to only know this. 

     Unless you were Megatron and were creating mindless soldiers. But this wasn't Wrath anymore. Even so, as much as Jazz had figured Orion would have still been the same as he remembered so fondly? 

     Jazz's spark hurt as he watched their Leader's movements. It really did.

     "Yo... um... O-"

     'No.'

     Jazz stopped his words before he could say more. This was the Orion he knew but... there was definitely something different. He was shorter with words for one. His stance was different for two. The weight of the faction and the war had clearly been on his old friend's shoulders and that bothered Jazz to the core. As he pulled his gaze from Optimus and glanced to Bee his faceplate seemed to hold an expression about it that wasn't like from what had been seen before. He was thinking, and the dulling of his visor around the edges held its own secret language, like Morse Code but without the audio.

     Jazz turned his helm away and followed through with his frame, taking a few steps away from the pair before he let his words come up again. "Lemme know when ya wanna go, Bee. I'll be waitin' for ya, kiddo. Se dépêcher." He didn't even look back at them as he continued on and stepped right out of the room. Jazz didn't know where he was going to go, but wherever it was? Wouldn't be far. They had a cat to take care of and Jazz had every intention of assisting in relocating the animal.

     He just couldn't find himself to stay so close to Optimus. Not right now. Not until everything sunk in a little.

[Bumblebee]

Bumblebee was silently thankful that Optimus had taken the whole thing so well. Not that he'd expected the Prime to be furious or lash out at him for bringing home a cat or anything like that. No, he was just thankful that he'd remained as calm as he usually was – which in turn had helped soften the blow of the inevitable, which was that Bumblebee couldn't keep Onion. If it had been Red Alert that he'd asked? It would've ended entirely different, no doubt. Having Jazz beside him had helped, and while he wasn't scared of Optimus, asking such a huge favor had taken some courage – mostly because he sadly knew the outcome before he'd even broached the subject.

At least Optimus seemed to be in agreement that Black Rock was the best bet here, and Bumblebee couldn't help but lean forwards some to watch the screen curiously now that the previous images and plans were no longer on the screen.

--Please do. Thank you, Optimus.-- It'd probably sound better coming from Optimus than Bee – not only because of who Optimus was, but because Bumblebee couldn't communicate with humans anyway. There was also the fact that if Bee did end up having to do it, he would've just put it off – at least this way it would be done, and he couldn't back out of it.

He was going to say more, but Jazz had started to interject with something – only to stop himself mid-sentence. Bumblebee didn't quite understand what'd just happened. He'd only known Optimus as he was now. He wasn't much of a talker, keeping things concise and to the point. He didn't show emotion, keeping his field level and neutral at all times. That was just who Optimus was. That was who Bumblebee looked up to, and who Bumblebee respected more than anything else. There was so much difference between himself and Jazz – they'd both known Optimus for a long time, just... Different versions of him. While Jazz was comfortable calling their Prime 'Op', Bumblebee would never. While it was hard for Bumblebee to imagine Optimus as Orion? It was hard for Jazz to see his old friend like this.

He swiveled on his pedes to look away from the screen, catching Jazz's expression. Before he could ask if Jazz was alright, or if he'd done something wrong? Jazz turned to depart.

--Alright, Jazz.--

He stood awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck as Jazz moved from the room. He didn't understand the last part of what Jazz had said, and would make a note to find out later – as well as trying to work out exactly what'd happened in the span of five seconds to make Jazz so... Sad. At least, that's what Bee had gotten from his expression.

--Uh, thanks again, Optimus. I'll go find Onion while you're doing that. Hopefully he's still in my room.--

Leaving Optimus in the Control Room to make the call, Bumblebee would go back to his quarters. He really really hoped that Onion hadn't escaped in the brief time they'd been away – as that would make an already painful situation even worse. Catching up to Jazz in the hallway, the pair made their way into Bee's room to locate and retrieve the cat.

Onion, thankfully, hadn't gone far, and was sniffing curiously at one of the lava lamps on the floor. With Jazz guarding the door so the cat couldn't escape? Bee moved forwards and scooped him up into his servos quickly - holding him close to his chassis.

Not wanting to draw this out or to waste time, Bumblebee made his way back into the Control Room. The call had been made, and he'd nod to Optimus – signaling that he was ready to go and get this over with. He didn't want to linger too long at Black Rock, which was another reason this was probably for the best – as he'd be there and back again in a moment.

The Ground Bridge was opened, and Bumblebee would make his way through. He'd sadly beep quiet reassurances to the cat as they moved through the swirling vortex, knowing that the poor thing was probably terrified at being held in Bee's servos and unable to wriggle free.

Once through, Bee would lower himself into a kneel – holding out both servos to the human that had greeted him on the other side. Here, he would hand over the terrified cat, and after the human had reassured Bumblebee that Onion would be in good hands, and a short goodbye from Bee? Bumblebee would turn to depart – making his way back through to the Omega Base.

He was gutted. Sadness flickered into his field which he would quickly hide, trying to be strong. He knew deep down that this was for the best, and that Onion would be better off with a human who could actually take care of him.

He'd glance to Jazz, who hadn't gone through the Ground Bridge with him, and would offer a nod and a cheery thumbs up.

--Lets finish ya tour of the base, huh?--

Distraction would be needed, probably for the both of them – and what better way than to finish the tour of the base.

-End-