[ti]Ep 2[/ti]Nothing But Time [Closed, Breakdown]

[Deleted]

Note:
Text placed between brackets ( [ ] ), are translation to what is being said through the hand gestures, not actually physically spoken *

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    'Should have seen that one coming.'

     Breakdown rolled his optic which was followed by a shake of his helm. Seriously, the situation called for it. He should have figured this had turned into a game for the medic and the fact that he had fallen right into it? Yeah, that made him just a little more irritated at the entire thing. Knock Out may have been sorry for what had been said but clearly he was well over it, just as Breakdown had promised he was over the issue. Not like he could go back on it now. Honestly? The big lug didn't have the spark to hold a grudge over it, either. Not against Knock Out, at least.

     "I'm sorry that you had to lower yourself to self irritation to get me to give in." Then there was an added, "How unfortunate for your pride." With emphasis on 'unfortunate and 'pride'. Seriously, even when Knock Out was in he wrong he seemed to have some way to turn it around and make it about him...

     'Why can't I just stay mad at you.'

     There was silence between them again for a long while after that. He was thinking, or at least trying to in the few short moments of quiet that he actually had while the medic sat at his side. He'd missed Earth's sunset by several human hours and he wondered if he'd be able to catch when the sun came back up. Before the start or end to his cycle he would find himself sneaking out of the Nemesis's hanger door just to stand on the runway and see the rise and fall of that bright orb in the sky, finding it to be the only bit of peace he ever got.

      No surprise was to be had when he heard Knock Out make the quick jab at Flatline's character and Breakdown let out a grumbling from deep within the base of his throat. Really, having to listen to the rivalry between his partner and Flatline were almost deafening sometimes. He was usually stuck as the middleman, either to corral their more aggressive altercations and keep them from doing actual damage to each other or to act as a liasion to collect things snagged from Knock Out's lab by the four-armed mech. Sure, Breakdown had his own grudge to bear with certain members of the Autobot team, but at least they were justified. The only thing Breakdown had a problem with concerning the other mech was that he would just take things or barge in unannounced and poke at all Knock Out's nerves. Sometimes they were deserved, yes, but other times it was just a matter of 'please just stop' over their pampered glitch behaviors.

     It was just a relief that he got along with the Vehicons so well. It was nice to break away from the ship's chaos sometimes and just listen to the rumors that were being spread around. It was such simple, idle conversation that really didn't need more than a mere turn of the processor to keep it registered and going. 
     

     "Sometimes I wonder why I can't just despise you for the things you say; to hate you for your actions. There are moments when you remind me of those mechs I had to deal with belittling me whenever they had the opportunity, and you know how much that kind of personality gets my energon boiling." There was a brief pause before he continued. "Then I realize that it's foolish to even think I could have that sort of malice towards you. I cant hate you, I have no reason to. You're the same mech that lured me in back then, and continues to intrigue me now. You haven't changed... and I don't want you to."

     The arm next to where Knock Out was sitting would reach out and wrap around the waist of the smaller mech, pulling him in close and onto his lap. There was a small shifting as Breakdown made himself comfortable again with the new weight addition before he leaned in and tilted his upper chassis downward slightly, just enough that it barely bumped his partner as he rested his blue and grey helm against the slightly smaller red one. Breakdown took one of Knock Out's servos in his own, his bulky digits fidgeting around some as he gave away that slight bit of jostled nervousness that never showed on his face. His singular optic was dead focused on what he was doing and his frame wouldn't ease up until he finally got everything just right.

      It took a great deal of fumbling but eventually Breakdown had everything down. He'd been practicing for a long while and to finally take the chance to display it? Well, that was enough to send anyone in a panic. He knew to go through with it anyway and after a deep intake of air that rumbled some of his internal vents, he began.

     Breakdown's servo cupped the side of Knock Out's, just along the pinky digit. Delicately he traced the edge of his thumb towards the center of his partners palm, following the small grove there until the center where he outlined a circle. 

     [ I am complete with you ]

     His thumb moved downward along the seam of Knock Out's thumb to reach the space between where his servo connected to the yellow band of his wrist. It followed that line back around to the base of the thumb and finally traced back up the side of the thumb to the sharp tip of his finger, and back down once again until it stopped at the base of the thumb joint. His first and second digit slid down the space between Knock Out's middle to ring and ring to pinky, whereas Breakdown's last digit pressed to the side of Knock Out's servo.

     [ I am here with you ]

     Breakdown's other digits started to move again, his third and second finger starting at the tops of Knock Out's pinky and ring, whereas, with one digit short, his index traced both Knock Out's index and middle. They would follow a path down and meet at the palm in unison, linger there, then move down to the wrist, around the seam, and to the back of Knock Out's servo before curving upward and cupping Knock Out's smaller digits under his own. His thumb would trace up Knock Out's again, only this time he would almost trap it under the much more massive servo, like a cover.

     [ I will protect you ]

     The grip would ease off, holding that smaller clawed servo with as much tender care as one would a newly emerged sparkling. Then his first, second, and third digit would slide down the gaps in Knock Out's index to middle, middle to ring, and ring to pinky, whereas his thumb would tuck inside, pressed between their palms. 

     [ I am yours ]

     From there Breakdown just stared at the position their servos were in, his optic never looking up as though worried that the cherry red mech would poke fun of him. He'd been practicing that pattern of chirolinguistics for several orbital cycles now, hoping to get it perfect to surprise Knock Out with it. He hadn't even thought it through if Knock Out knew any of the silent language himself, or if he would just assume Breakdown was just playing around. 

     More silence befell Breakdown before he nudged Knock Out's helm with his own then straightened up and looked at the horizon again. Maybe it would be better to get back to the Nemesis now, but he really didn't care to disrupt this moment.

[Knock Out]

The optic roll went unnoticed by Knock Out, whose attention was focused straight ahead at the horizon. He did, however, see the helm shake out the corner of his own optic, and he tensed up just slightly. He knew he'd hurt Breakdown, and it was no surprise that he wasn't over it like he'd said; so the words that came from Breakdown didn't exactly shock him. His gaze still forwards as he replied.

“The fact I had to lower myself to that at all shows just how sorry I am, does it not?” He was.. Really bad at this. “My pride will be fine though if we can move on from this.” Okay make that terrible at this. It really was the little things with Knock Out, he'd apologized, and had followed instead of running away. It was rare that he and Breakdown fought; they usually worked in perfect harmony with each other. Knock Out calming Breakdown through his panicky moments, and Breakdown putting up with Knock Out being... Well, Knock Out. So he honestly thought that these little actions to show he cared would be enough, that Breakdown knew him well enough to understand he hadn't meant to hurt him.

There was no reply, and so he assumed for right now that he'd won and had said enough. Either that, or Breakdown was just mulling over his thoughts. For once, Knock Out didn't comment or add more onto what he'd said. He knew Breakdown enjoyed the sights of Earth, and Knock Out had had his fun tonight with the race. Sure the thrill of the victory had been lost due to the events afterwards, but it was rare that Breakdown left the Nemesis; so he was quiet and letting his partner enjoy this, even if Knock Out was starting to get the itch to go driving again on this perfectly still evening. The least he could do was sit here quiet for a little while.

He was even starting to get used to the silence, when Breakdown spoke again. He hadn't been expecting it this time, so would lazily turn his helm to look up at Breakdown's; remaining quiet until he'd finished speaking, and even then he would hesitate. Maybe he'd get it right this time.

“Compared to how I was? I do think I've changed for the better.” Maybe not. “I have only you to thank for that, Breakdown.” Okay it was a start, a baby step in the right direction at least! “I think what we have is strong, and nothing will change that. Not me saying things I don't mean. Nor you breaking things in the Med Bay.” He was trying.

He was about to comment further, as if his jumbled thoughts were all over the place and he kept thinking of adding more things to say to try and help the situation, when he felt Breakdown's arm slide around him and tug him into his lap.

“Oh. Hello there!”

That was unexpected. He quickly settled against the bigger Mech, not that he had much of a choice in the matter, but he wasn't about to begin to complain about it. He allowed Breakdown to take his servo, blinking as he watched. He could sense the other Mech was nervous, but he wasn't sure why at first. Knock Out wasn't usually one for signs of affection, which was odd considering he loved attention – moments like these were usually kept to their shared quarters, so maybe it was something to do with that?

What came next made Knock Out blink in surprise. Chirolinguistics? He knew, and was fluent in this way of communicating; he had to be, for sometimes patients just could not speak on their own. He remembered one kooky patient back in the war who only spoke this way. It'd been a long time since he'd used it, but he hadn't forgotten any of it.

Silently he would watch as Breakdown's digits traced along his servo, wrist, and long slender digits. Where had he learned this? He'd given no hint of anything, nor had he ever seen him practicing. He felt honored to see this side of Breakdown sometimes. The Vehicons got mere glimpses that Breakdown had a nicer side to him, as he often conversed with them and asked about their day, but to others he was seen as nothing more than a brute with somewhat of a temper.

He waited until Breakdown was done, then would smile.

“Here.” He murmured, gently easing his servo from Breakdown's, then would carefully open the other mech's servo so it was palm up, cupped just slightly due to the size difference of their servos.

He placed his thumb on Breakdown's inner wrist, while his index finger would reach up to meet Breakdown's index finger in turn. His movements weren't as nervous as Breakdowns, but he was still gentle and slow, so Breakdown could understand. His thumb and index finger would slide slowly together, meeting in the middle of Breakdown's palm, crossing just slightly so the tip of his thumb resting above the tip of his index finger. From here he would twist his wrist slightly, pulling the two digits apart in a spiral like motion as he twisted his wrist, until they were at the top, and bottom of his palm near the seam of Breakdown's wrist. Then they would draw together once more in a straight line, before he would trace his index finger toward the side of Breakdown's servo, his other fingers moving also, to entwine his digits with Breakdown's.

[ I am sorry ]

He held his palm against Breakdown's for a few, lingering moments, squeezing his servo gently before he would pull it away gently and rest it in his lap. He would sit in silence for a while longer, before quietly clearing his throat.

“You know, I think if we go East a little more, there's probably a higher lookout point if you wanted to see more of the sunrise. We still have a good while until the sun rises so we should have plenty of time... If you wanted to, anyway. Maybe being higher up means we can see more stars until then, too. Away from the light pollution from the humans.” His voice quiet. If Breakdown was happy here, then he would stay; but it was yet another attempt at an olive-branch being given – to show he did pay attention to others sometimes. He did know Breakdown loved watching the sun rise and set, and was more than aware he snuck off to the hanger door to watch it almost daily. It wouldn't hurt his feelings if Breakdown turned the idea down, as he was more than content right where he was.

[Deleted]

     Breakdown had been paused in any and all movements from the moment he had begun the hand talk. There were so many questions running through his processor! Did Knock Out understand? Did he think he had finally gone off the deep end? Would he make fun of him for such foolish things? Or would he ask what kind of picture he was trying to draw on his servo? It could have been a question surrounding a bunch of things. Finally he had started to stay something but it was Knock Out who had interrupted him first.

     He was smiling... that was a good thing, right? That question didn't have to linger for long before the answer was given.

     Yes, it was.

     Breakdown stared as the mech traced around his own servo in response, following the lines carefully. Each section was touched delicately by those clawed digits, teasing his sensors and stimulating the nerve circuits that lay below the metal. While most were able to decipher was was said without much effort, Breakdown was still learning so he had to watch instead. He dare not move and ruin what was silently being told to him so he kept his servo still until Knock Out finished with his digits laced into his own. There was a small smile that rose up, though it disappeared when Knock Out pulled his servo away and broke the connection.

     Sorry.

     Somehow he believed it this time, more so than when he had spoken it only a little while before. Sometimes it just took that extra bit of effort for the big oaf to no longer have to question how genuine it was.  Perhaps it was because Knock Out said it so often? Either way, that little bit finally was enough to settle the annoyance that lingered in the bulky mech. The silence was something he needed for now. Just being here to let Knock Out's response to his hand talk was comforting to him. If only all their moments were this peaceful.

     As far as leaving? Breakdown's answer came in movement first. He shifted some as the mech suggested moving, his large arms wrapping around his partner's waist to pull him close to him again. Breakdown's single optic dimmed slightly behind the yellow screen and the optic ridge lowered until it was a mere slit as he lowered his helm to rest on the curve of Knock Out's nearest shoulder.

     "Just like this... a little longer, yeah?" Breakdown's words were barely audible, which made it a good thing that Knock Out was so close to him or else he'd have missed it. A soft hum from Breakdown's heavy alt mode engine sounded from deep within his chassis, indicating his relaxed state and contentment with how they were. Sure, he wasn't one for public displays, but this was just between them, out in the dark where they weren't being disturbed by the pacing of mechs outside the doors of their quarters or having to listen to the ship's comm alerting them to this and that. Back on Cybertron they were given times like this where it was just them alone, but their bond had just been developing, and it hadn't been until Knock Out had blindsided him back then that the awkward barriers had started to fall. 

     As comforting as this was there would be time for more of it later. 

     Breakdown finally removed his arms from around Knock Out, though he held onto his upper arms as the dark blue mech made his way to his pedes. He'd shift Knock Out around and make sure he was able to stand with him as not to just throw the little medic on the ground and have to deal with him hollering about how rude he was or that he was dirty. Not, Breakdown was much more of a gentlespark than that. It wouldn't be until after he was fully upright that he would motion back to the path they had come from.

     "Lets try to find somewhere else to go. We can drive around for a little if you want... work out some of that extra energy of yours leftover from the race earlier." After he released Knock Out's arms, he would make his way back in the direction he had motioned to, but then he would stop and lower himself to a crouch. "I'll carry you back to the main road."

     Now, if Knock Out took the accepted offer, it would be to his benefit. Breakdown's broad shoulders would keep the nasty trees from further damaging his paint job, as they would hit him instead. An acceptance of the carry would also mean that Breakdown would carry him up the slanted hillside they had made their way down so all the chips and scrapes from rocks as well as mud would only touch him. If he didn't accept it, he would just have to carry himself on his own two pedes. Either way Breakdown would get to the pull off that he had previously stopped at and transform, waiting on Knock Out to do the same before he would start to drive.
     

[Knock Out]

“A while longer? Alright.” His own voice quiet as he replied. He'd expected as much, not that it was a bad thing; he was fairly content to sit here all night if that's what Breakdown wanted. He shifted back with Breakdown's movements, settling himself against the bigger mech's chassis. He could hear, and feel, the gentle hum from Breakdown's engine, and his own would rumble gently in return. He was glad things were back to normal, he never did like arguing and fighting with his partner.

His helm tilted to gently rest against Breakdown's as they both sat in silence for a while. It was nice. Part of him could even see why Breakdown enjoyed views and moments like this. Granted Knock Out seemed to enjoy the company more; he'd never sit out here on his own and do this, but for right now he was okay with it. Very okay with it.

His optics half lidded as he settled further. It was rare that they got to spend time together outside the Nemesis, especially with moments like these; and so he wanted to spend as long as possible out here before going back. He'd come up with some excuse as to why they were both gone if they were questioned. Luckily he was able to talk his way out of most things, so he wasn't exactly worried about getting into trouble. Megatron probably wasn't even back at the ship yet, due to the talks and arrangements of the truce no doubt still being debated and set in stone.

He didn't care either way.

He was content in the moment, until the slight movement from Breakdown stirred him from the tranquility.

“Mm?” He blinked, surprised. He shifted some, looking around and moving to his pedes with Breakdown's help. He wasn't sure what was going on, until he noted his partner gesturing back toward the path.

“Ah, I'd like that,” He nodded his helm, smiling weakly. “We'll find a better spot than this to sit and watch the sun. Humans seem to have a knack for building things like these for sightseeing and the like, I'm sure there's one higher up - and at this hour they should all be deserted.” It wouldn't matter if not, they'd just have to stay in their alt forms and hope nobody questioned why a flashy little Aston Martin was driving around with a huge military vehicle. Not that Knock Out cared if they did.

It'd be nice to work off some excess energy too. Not that he'd go that fast, he was sure that Breakdown wanted to take in the sights as they traveled – and maybe, just for once, Knock Out was thinking of his partner instead of himself. If only for tonight.

Breakdown didn't even have to offer, and no sooner had he crouched? Knock Out had hopped up and was clinging to his back as best he could, being careful of the tire which was placed on the bigger mech's back. Knock Out often made use of this method of 'transport' and so was quickly in position, clinging on with his servos, legs either side of Breakdown. He was dreading fighting through those trees again, and screw climbing back up that rocky hillside again. Coming down here on his own was bad enough!

Once they'd made it through – and not a single scratch was to be had on Knock Out's frame – and were back at the top? Knock Out would hop down and transform into his alt mode quickly. Aah that felt better. Now he could drive.

And drive he would, pulling back onto the road and heading East. He wouldn't go too fast – but it sure felt amazing to be driving again after sitting still.

::If there's anywhere you want to stop, just say so and we will. You know where would be best for things like this, so I will leave it up to you - so stop wherever you'd like.::

He sounded cheerful over the comm. The road was deserted, just like he thought it would be, and there would be signs along the road marking the various scenic stopping points along the way. Knock Out wouldn't question or argue Breakdown's choice in where he wanted to stop, but it seemed like there were certainly a lot of choices.

[Deleted]

     Knock Out was going to let him stop wherever he wanted to? Well, that was a new one. Again, he didn't know how long that offer was actually going to be on the table, so while part of him wanted to jump at the first site they came across in their drive? The other part just wanted to feel the road under his wheels. Or maybe that was Knock Out's influence?

     Breakdown didn't really understand Knock Out's reasoning behind racing. He understood needing to get off the Nemesis, being that he was the only Medic onboard and everything pretty much rode on his shoulders, but other than that? It was strange to him. Breakdown could have just casually driven the speed limit and been satisfied, but never Knock Out. He was always seeming to be gunning for the next chance to show off and...

     ... Ooooh. Okay. Now he got it.

     Signs for turn off came and went, and still Breakdown drove without any hint of where he wanted to go. The road was deserted at this hour and there was still a good bit before the sun would come up. They'd have plenty of time to look at the stars- or rather, for Breakdown to look at the stars since Knock Out never really seemed that interested in things of the sort- so he was in no hurry to pull off. He didn't mind passing the views along the way and with it being nighttime, it looked particularly attractive to him. The darkness around them was similar to how the Nemesis was, but, unlike the warship, there was something warm and inviting about Earth's version of it. The sounds, the sensations... 

     Earth was a beautiful place. The inhabitants were the ones he had issue with.

     :: Knock Out :: he finally said over their private comm link. :: To the right there's a turn off. Slow down and take it easy, then take the road that leads off from there. Looks like we can get higher up from there. :: Breakdown slowed down and turned on his signal, making a right turn into the pull off. Not bothering to park in one of the spots in the circular lot where they could have looked out over the canyon, he drove straight through and to another section of it where the large chunk of rock looked like it had been dug out. That was where Breakdown was headed and, again, his speed slowed even more once his tires hit that stretch of road.

     For good reason.

     Breakdown said 'road', it could hardly be considered such. It was rather a gap between the canyon walls, definitely barely with enough room to squeeze two vehicles side-by-side. It was only loose soil and rock, apparently made for off-road vehicles like Breakdown's. It was at least easier for Knock Out to travel this than the last place they'd been... not as well as pavement, but hey, at least they weren't going DOWN the slope. Instead they traveled uphill, turning this way and that, surrounded on either side by high walls. The further up they went, the shorter the walls seemed to get. After another short turn to the right they came to a clearing with a few trees and scattered patches of grass and weeds. There was a guardrail that had been put up, probably to keep humans who may have gathered here from just falling right on off. It was a large space, though, so the two had nothing to worry about. Oh, and the view...

     And what a view it was.

     They would be able to see almost the entire horizon from that spot, save for a place or two where the walls were much higher. They were still a great bit of distance up from the carved out landscape below, but this plateau was good enough. The stars were unobstructed from here and when the sun came up? They'd have a front row seat as it would start to come out of hiding.

     Once Breakdown made sure there wasn't anyone here, the mech transformed and made his way forward to a grassy patch. There he sat down, making sure he had a good spot, and finally laid back with his servos folded behind his helm. He stared up at the stars overhead, taking in the various shapes he saw in them. He'd wait for Knock Out to find a place before he would speak.

     "I wish I could see Cybertron from here..."

[Knock Out]

The only reason that Breakdown was being allowed to choose the location was because Knock Out wanted to earn brownie points, and because he had absolutely no idea where would be a good stopping point with the best view. He assumed anywhere would be fine, as long as it faced East, but due to the fact that Breakdown kept driving? Obviously not. He saw so many spots that he personally figured would be amazing to stop at, but after the fourth or fifth pull off that they passed? He stopped even looking at them. He wasn't sure when Breakdown planned on stopping, but at least the drive was nice, so there was that.

::Mm? Alright, got it.::

He saw the turn which Breakdown was referring to, and would pull to a slower pace before turning into the pull off. He wasn't sure where to stop, so would pull to an almost crawl to let Breakdown overtake him and lead the way.

He followed, although where his partner was taking him? Was worrisome. He was so not built for this terrain. Breakdown yes, but Knock Out? No way.

::...You and I clearly have different meanings of the word 'road'..:: He chuckled, doing his best not to grumble about the fact the surface was uneven and would be murder on his suspension and tires, not to mention the loose soil would kick up and make him filthy. This was Breakdowns little evening and happy moment, and he didn't want to ruin it. He would follow carefully, however, making his way up the hill. It was definitely easier than trying to navigate in his root form down the sheer side of a rocky cliff, but eugh.

Breakdown was lucky that Knock Out adored him so.

Once they turned right, he was happy to see the clearing. He wasn't sure how Breakdown knew to find this place, but he wasn't about to question it. He was right though, heading East had brought them to somewhere with a much better view. Not that he cared for it, but at least Breakdown would be content.

He would follow his partners lead and there would be a whir of hydraulics and shifting metal as he transformed into his root mode, a delicate servo moving to flick dust from himself as if by instinct. He waited to see where Breakdown would settle, before moving to sit beside him. He didn't lay down, but crossed his legs loosely under himself.

“Hm?” He hummed quietly, leaning back on his servos and glancing upwards to gaze at the seemingly billions of stars – they had a much clearer view from here, without the light pollution from the nearby city tarnishing the view.

“It's out there somewhere, at least,” Yup he was still terrible at this. “Maybe one of the really, really faint ones? Like that one up there?” He'd raise a servo to point at a non-specific area of the sky, it'd be near impossible to tell which star he was even pointing at, but an attempt was made.

For someone who didn't care about the sights, he sure seemed fascinated by the stars – gaze still upwards as he took it all in, lowering his servo to gently rest on the ground beside him once more.

[Deleted]

     "It wasn't so hard getting up here, Knock Out. Don't be so fussy all the time. You know there hasn't been a scratch or scuff you've gotten yet that I can't buff out."

     Breakdown figured that his partner would have had something to say about the travel here. The comment about the road type? Yeah, it wasn't so far-fetched. Breakdown was built to go over much more rugged terrain than the pretty little red sports car, but he hadn't heard him say no, which Breakdown would have abliged and found a different spot if it'd come to more whining from the other mech. But he was here now and Breakdown was content to stare at the stars. He'd probably be asked to carry him back.

     A single optic followed Knock Out's point at the sky. Could he actually see Cybertron? When he realized that Knock Out wasn't pointing at any star in particular he grumbled.

     "You know you can't see Cybertron from here!" Breakdown exclaimed with a bit of a huff, though the small laugh that followed hinted that he wasn't angry about the attempt to mislead him. Or was it? Probably not. Either way, Breakdown thought nothing of it and stared at Knock Out with a half smile. "Though it's nice to think about. I guess I'm just a little homesick sometimes. I wonder if everyone's left Cybertron by now or if they're still trying to bring her back." Earth more than made up for Cybertron, considering that he was thrown into the war and didn't know any good times on their home planet. Though he did miss her, he could easily say that the better moments had been spent here. If there was an option to stay? It would be a difficult one for him to make. That is, if Megatron didn't turn it into a barren wasteland...

     The dark blue mech went quiet and returned to looking overhead. He took in the sights of the stars and idly picked out little pictures here and there that his optic was on the hunt for. Some of them he recognized through pictures he had found through readings on the human's 'world wide web'. After Knock Out had confined him to the ship under medical orders of 'light duty' after his injuries sustained by MECH had been repaired, he'd grown bored and had accidentally stumbled on the human's form of research and had done a bit on his own. Part of that had been how he'd known about this place.

     'Best Sight-seeing Locations On Earth'. So far it hadn't been wrong.

     If Knock Out knew he was partaking in such things when he should have been in recharge? Well... he would probably be scolded so it kept it to himself. No doubt he'd ignored the fact that Knock Out would probably eventually get suspicious.

     "Look, Knock Out!" Breakdown had moved one servo from behind his helm and nudged his partner's side with his elbow joint. Lightly, though, as not to risk damaging his paint job and ruining the otherwise peaceful moment. "See that line of three stars there?" He pointed diagonally to the left from where they were. Sure enough, there were three brightly colored stars in an oddly perfect straight line. "That's what the humans call Orion's Belt. If you look around 'em you can almost see the shape of Orion. They call him The Hunter. He's got a weapon and everything!"

[Knock Out]

“Except I didn't make a fuss? Mmf. You're right, though. About the buffing thing. Although there is a first time for everything, you know.”

His lips curved into the most subtle of smirks, although his gaze didn't shift from the stars. Attention ever-upwards as he stared. He really hadn't made that much of a fuss, just made a comment about the road – which in his defense, he was not built for. He'd possibly made the occasional grumble as they drove up here, but he never outwardly complained. Although Breakdown was probably right in assuming that Knock Out would ask to be carried back to the parking lot. He wouldn't argue further though, not wanting to make things awkward between them once more – especially now that things were alright again.

He would listen quietly as Breakdown spoke about Cybertron, and how he was homesick. He'd shift himself just slightly, leaning back on his servos, legs uncurling from under himself to stretch out infront. At Breakdown's chuckle, he would lazily roll his helm to look at his partner, and he'd smile.

“Mm? Well, I don't know,” He scoffed playfully.“It is up there somewhere, though.” He hummed in thought, turning his attention to stare upwards at the stars once more. “I am sure there are still a few who remained up there, too stubborn to leave, or just out there living the life, away from all this chaos.” He vented out a long, drawn out sigh.

“I don't think I'm all that homesick. Earth is new, and has plenty of opportunity for us Decepticons to grow and thrive. Once we take out the Autoscum and skinjob infestation, anyway.” He grumbled quietly. Maybe he could keep a few as pets for racing against, then again if they took over the planet for themselves? He'd be able to race freely with other Cons. Or at least he hoped he'd be able to.

He was enjoying the quiet once more, and while he wasn't one for the sights? It was nice to sit under the stars in silence with his partner. So fascinated by the stars he was, that he didn't hear Breakdown say his name. He just continued staring up. Only when he was gently nudged did he blink and snap out of it.

“Hm?” He glanced at his partner, noticing him pointing and would shift his gaze to follow where Breakdown was directing his attention. It took him a second but he saw the three stars that were being pointed out. It was hard not to, they were so much brighter than the others.

“I see them,” He crossed his legs back under himself as Breakdown continued to talk. “Orion's Belt..?” He blinked. Orion as in.. No.. When the war was brewing, he'd heard that name an awful lot – the one going against Megatron. Orion Pax, who later went on to become Optimus Prime. Surely the name was just.. Coincidentally the same? He wouldn't comment on it, but he would dwell on it for a while, that was for certain.

“I don't see his weapon,” He'd squint, as if that'd help him focus on what he was supposed to be seeing. “But I'll believe you that it's there. I assume there are more of these..? How do you know about this stuff, anyway?”

[Deleted]

     “Some of us can’t remember a time before the war happened. From a personal standpoint? Can’t say I would be too upset if we never went back.” Breakdown stared overhead, trying to not only find the other constellations, but maybe some hint as to which direction to look for Cybertron. “I don’t mind Earth- It’s actually kind of fascinating. It’d be nice to have a fresh start.”

     Breakdown looked over at Knock Out, seeing how he was looking at the stars. He seemed to be just as intrigued about them. Well, at least they had an interest they could share, and maybe Breakdown could convince Knock Out to go out to the Nemesis’s landing strip to be just a tad closer to them. Then again, it could have just been wishful thinking.

     “You may want to keep a few of of the fleshlings for yourself as pets so that you can race them. I know you’d miss not having that anymore. Who knows what this planet would look like once we finally scrap the Autobrats.”

     Breakdown had seen the results of war, and having been on the front lines, had a hand in contributing to the disaster he’d seen. He hadn’t really thought it over before since it was always ‘go go go’ while on Cybertron, but now on Earth they’d had a chance to have a bit of downtime here and there from time to time and he could reflect on the situation. Destruction was common as was death. He’d heard stories of cities on Cybertron being reduced to rubble in the wake of brute force and direct attack. What was in store for Earth? Would it eventually turn into a barren wasteland as Cybertron had, which would force them to leave and find resources elsewhere yet again?

     No, Breakdown was not going to think of that. Their cause was the right one and he would not let himself think otherwise. The Autobots supported the oppression and stood with creatures against their own kind, even in spite of the horrible things said organics did. Idly Breakdown reached one servo to the patch that covered the space where his optic used to be and touched it. With an annoyed growl he pulled it away and returned it behind his helm with the other.

     There were other things to think about.

     “Constellations? Yeah, there’s a ton of them. Most of them are creatures but some of them are tools, like the Big and Little Dipper. I don’t know what they’re supposed to be, but they look like two different sizes of scoops. There’s a dragon and a scorpion. I don’t know what those creatures are but they sound powerful. Probably wrecked a bunch of scrap and forced the humans to honor them with a place in the stars.” Breakdown nodded to himself in assurance, then glanced to Knock Out with a bit if a sheepish grin at his question. “I… um.. .may have been doing research on your datapad when you’re in recharge? I didn’t think you’d mind for me to browse some things.”

     Air passed through his vents and he grunted slightly as he sat up, propping himself on his servos as he lowered his gaze to the horizon. There was a faint tone difference, hinting that the sun would be coming up soon. Had they really been out here that long?

     “Looks like we get to see the sunrise.”

[Knock Out]

“A fresh start would be nice. Once we deal with MECH we can turn our attention back to the Autoscum, and from there? The fleshbags that inhabit this planet. Once we eradicate both, we will get a true fresh start.” Knock Out mused, lowering his gaze to stare at the horizon instead of straight up. He let his processor wander slightly, trying to imagine what this planet would be like once the Decepticon cause had triumphed. It was already rich with Energon deposits, even with the Decepticons mining many already found on Earth, and once things had been cleaned up from the battles here when it got to that point? It would be easy to build up and start anew. As long as he was part of the winning side? He didn't really care.

He'd sit up straighter, pushing his chassis out with a grunt as he flexed his back strut, before relaxing his posture, turning his attention straight up once more to look at the stars.

“I doubt I'd keep them as pets; they would require keeping alive,” He droned this, making a disgusted snort. Keeping humans around to race sounded amazing on paper, but the work involved in just keeping them alive would take out all the fun. “I'm sure I could find others who would gladly race. The Vehicons or what have you, given they wouldn't be under such strict orders by then.”

Knock Out was under those orders too, they all were; he just broke them.

He would smile as Breakdown continued to talk about the stars, and his gaze would shift as if looking for the Big and Little Dipper. How Breakdown, or anyone came up with this stuff was beyond him. He didn't see scoops, nor did he see any dragons or scorpions. He hadn't been able to pick out Orion the Hunter from the mass of stars, and the only reason he could see the belt was because it was hard to miss three bright stars in a line.

“I saw a human horror movie once about scorpions. They're little armored creatures with big stinging tails. The movie was hilarious – although I don't see anything like that up in the sky.” He narrowed his optics some, as if he really was trying to find something to point out to Breakdown, but then his attention was drawn back to his partner, and he'd glance to him once more.

“Oh, no. I don't mind.” Why would he? He didn't mind what Breakdown did when Knock Out wasn't around; and if Breakdown wanted to spend his time looking up things called the Big and Little Dipper.. and constellations called Orion's belt.. Then who was he to stop him if he didn't know it was being done to begin with? He was curious as to what else Breakdown looked up, given he'd been surprised twice tonight; first with the Chirolinguistics and now with the stars - but that was a question for another time.

His own gaze would shift to the horizon, following Breakdown's.

“We're in the best spot for it, too.” He'd smile. Normally he'd ignored any sunrises that he'd happened to be awake for, usually focused on other things at the time; so maybe seeing one as it happened would shift his view on them a little and he'd find himself sneaking out the hanger door with Breakdown in future to watch them.

Maybe.

[Deleted]

     Earth under siege, captured by the Decepticons after who knew how long of battle. The Autobots wouldn't surrender, nor would the Decepticons. Cybertron had taken quite some time ( in human years, since their kind existed far longer so it was hardly a even a small chunk of their lifecycle ) to finally fall into a barren wasteland. Cybertron was mechanical- cold and metallic- with the same type of organisms inhabiting it. What about Earth? It was hardly the same. This place was fully of life that was sustained by some circle that recycled its resources and kept balance. If one thing was taken away, the others would be effected. How long would it take for Earth to become what Cybertron had? 

     Maybe the Autobots had the right idea about protecting what was here. Not that Breakdown would ever let on his conflicting thoughts on the matter. That would only spell trouble for him. Sure, he may have been stood on more neutral territory than any of the other Decepticons when it came to certain things but that didn't mean he didn't like beating the scrap out of Autobots. Because he did. He always had. That wasn't about to change no matter where his mind may have decided to lean towards and as long as he had that attitude towards the other faction? He was good enough to be a Decepticon.

     Not to mention he wouldn't have minded at all to rid himself of a few humans, if just to decrease the population enough and strike enough fear for them to fall into line like obedient little pets. He was rather disappointed that he hadn't been able to see if they knew how to play 'Fetch'.

     "From what I can tell of what you watch, humans seem to find a way to make movies about anything and everything. I don't see how you can tolerate what they call 'horror'. You're always complaining that they're horrible." Breakdown rolled his optic some then shook his helm. He didn't understand Knock Out's strange fascinations, but they were his own to have. Just like racing, it was something that Breakdown would never really be able to get into. Sure, he'd sat through a film or two to amuse Knock Out and share a laugh over because the sheer ridiculousness of what was put on screen from script, but he couldn't come up with any description other than 'human's being bored and trying to scare the frag out of one another'. Clearly Cybertronians and Humans had different ideas of what could make the energon in their lines run cold. Or blood in the veins from a human's standpoint.

     Breakdown's gaze locked ahead, staring at the sky as its change was becoming more noticeable. What had started off as a lighter blue from the nighttime setting was getting brighter, and the horizon was now lined with a very bright shade of yellow. That color forced the blue back, creating a much more defined gradient effect. Soon the yellow and orange ball would be seen rising up from the horizon line, and the sky would take on various shakes of purples, oranges, reds and yellows as it balanced itself out before taking over to the bright light blue they were used to seeing during the daylight cycle. The clouds were much more ominous in that time, appearing almost as dark purple or black chunks that hovered in the sky. Breakdown's optic was focused the entire time, not even so much as looking to Knock Out to ensure he was watching this as well. Just as the movies and racing, they both had their own interests and just dealt with the fact they appreciated other things. At least this was quiet and peaceful, which Breakdown was always able to enjoy. Perhaps his partner would one day as well.

     "Thanks for sitting with me, but we should probably head back before it's completely daylight. The later in the day it gets, the more humans that are out. I'd hate for us to be caught outside of our alt modes by the fleshbags. With the truce in place, I'm sure the Bots have already passed along their 'no harming humans' rule. So better safe and hide than engage and be sorry later."

     Breakdown really could have stayed longer, but he knew that would be illogical. The highway they'd used to get here was a common route and they'd find it much more difficult to bridge out if they stayed too much longer. He stood and shifted into his vehicle mode, starting off towards the road they'd used to travel to get to their spot. Already he was hearing other cars as morning commuters were getting a heads start on rush hour. 

[Knock Out]

“The only reason they're horrible is because of how utterly un-scary they are. They don't make them like they used to, Breakdown! ..You're right though in that they do seem to make them about anything these days. Still, it's a way to pass the time I suppose.”

Sometimes he wished that he could drag Breakdown along to more drive in movie theaters, but due to the fact that his partners alt-mode wasn't exactly a common sight here on Earth.. It made things difficult. That and the fact that Breakdown wasn't really one for leaving the Nemesis. Still, sometimes he managed to convince his partner to sit alongside him at some of the more.. Deserted theaters. Drive in movies sadly seemed to be a dying pastime of humankind and so were few and far between. Luckily there was always the internet to watch movies on! The movies he had managed to watch with Breakdown were all beyond terrible, B-Grade movies was what the humans called them, and part of their charm was that they were awful.

He would scoot back just a little and gently rest his helm on Breakdown as they sat in silence once more to watch the sky change before them. His gaze occasionally shifting to look at his partners faceplate, the faintest of smiles on his lips as he watched Breakdown staring in awe as the sky shifted drastically in color. For such a big Mech, Breakdown sure was gentle and caring. Knock Out never would've expected such a big guy to be seemingly fascinated with Earth, the stars.. Nature in general, the sunsets and sunrises. They were beautiful, even Knock Out could admit that, but it wasn't like he went out of his way to appreciate them.

Maybe he should start doing that; sometimes he missed the sky on Cybertron – well, at least those rare moments when one could actually see it past the hazy smog and light pollution, anyway. Who knew how long they'd get to watch the sky on Earth like this before it befell a similar fate? There were parts of Earth where you couldn't see the sky due to the light pollution even now, and that was just from the humans doing.

He was amazed at how quickly the sky shifted in color. Just mere moments ago, it seemed, they were looking at the stars in total darkness. Now? The sun was up before them, the sky blue. It looked like it was going to be a nice day; too bad that Knock Out would have to spend it on the Nemesis – and on no recharge, too. That was his own fault, and something he would just have to deal with. He was no stranger to pulling all nighters, it was part of the job description sometimes.

He squinted some under the harsh light of the sun, the chilly morning air making him shudder some. It'd take a while for the Earth to warm, and he'd peer around at the sparkling dew that danced over the nearby shrubbery and grass, glancing down at himself – his plating sparkled with a thousand tiny waterdrops, highlighted by the ever-rising sun. Aside from the sound of the other cars from the morning commuters? Things were actually quite tranquil. He could see why some preferred mornings over evenings.

“Mm? Oh, no problem,” He smiled, sitting upright. He was glad that Breakdown had been the one to break the silence. He didn't want to ruin things for his partner, and wanted him to be the one to suggest they head back. “It was nice to watch the sunrise with you. Amazing how quickly it happened, it's no wonder you're able to sneak out to watch it so often on the ship.” He teased, chuckling weakly. 

Breakdown was right though, they really should get back. The fact he'd been gone since yesterday wouldn't bode well with their Warlord, if he missed a second day of work? Then he'd have to face Megatron again, and twice in one week wasn't exactly a thrilling thought.

He pulled himself to his pedes, stretching his arms above his head with a content groan before shifting back into his alt-mode. It was easier to navigate his way out of this area, and he'd quickly pull infront of Breakdown; not for long however, he made a quick call over the comm for a groundbridge back, and would lead his partner to another secluded area – even further from the road and the prying eyes of the humans.

Once they were both somewhere secure and safely out of view, he'd make another call to say they were in position. There would be a familiar whirring before them as the green and yellow groundbridge opened, and Knock Out would waste no time in making his way through, shifting into his root-mode as he made his way to the other side.

The dull, drab greys and purples of the Nemesis were a welcoming sight; for as much as Knock Out liked taking multiple and sometimes unnecessary excursions to Earth, it was always nice to come back to routine and his job. Which would be exactly where he would go – straight to the Medical Bay to deal with the first patient of the day with his assistant and partner, Breakdown. He wouldn't have it any other way.


~End