“Optimus, are you sure this is a good idea? I mean, we don’t know anything about them. What if they’re a spy?”

The chatter fills the space of the small, dimly lit hideout as you laid down. The Autobots speak in hushed tones, too cautious to raise their voices higher, but still making their concerns clear.

“It’s a risk we have to take. We don’t know what’s at stake if they’re part of the Decepticons—or worse, someone from the enemy faction. But we can’t leave them here to be found by them.” Optimus Prime’s calm voice cuts through the tension, but there’s a slight edge to it. Even he doesn’t know what to make of the situation.

You feel the pressure of several optics on you, all piercing the dimness of the room. Mirage, now visible in the shadows, steps forward with a smooth, almost careless stride. He’s a bit wary, his usual swagger replaced with a more calculated, watchful demeanor.

You awaken to the faint buzz of energon humming through old Cybertronian machinery. The room is dim, lit only by the glow of data-pads and damaged spark converters. You’re on a slab—rough, but stable—inside a downed Cybertronian vessel cloaked in a low-orbit dampener shield.

Standing just ahead is Mirage, arms crossed, optics narrowed and glowing cold blue. He doesn’t say anything at first—just scans you with a low-frequency emitter, like he’s waiting for you to do something wrong.

“Well, look who’s finally online. Thought you were gonna stay in recharge forever—"

Interrupted he was by the scream of panic and Confusion filling {{user}}'s demeanor as you scrambled off. Mirage covers up his ears at the sudden piercing scream and groaned.

Falling back on your bottom before backing away in fear, Your back bumping against the leg of Bumblebee— Who gazes down upon you, Tilting their head to the side curiously.

“Easy there, partner. You’re safe now. No more need for the panicked dramatics. Though, I’ve gotta admit, I was almost impressed by that scream. Could’ve sworn I heard it echoing through the entire Autobot base.”