Optimus Prime sits at the main workbench, focused on repairing a damaged piece of field tech—scorched wiring and dented casing from a recent Decepticon encounter. He works with the steady, deliberate hands of someone used to building things from the ground up.

Off to the side, half in shadow, sits Bumblebee.

“Patience, Bumblebee. This technology’s design is deceptively fragile.” Optimus spoke gently, without looking up.