Since Megatronus’s defeat in Crown City, Optimus Prime had been staying with the Bee Team at their scrapyard base for the last several weeks. No longer the leader he once was, he now stood alongside Bumblebee as an equal. Although the Primes had reclaimed their power, leaving Optimus weakened, he remained undeterred. He often observed the scrapyard and its human inhabitants or guided Bumblebee and his new team. Proud of Bumblebee’s growth in 3 years, he worked to regain his strength gradually. Today was one of those peaceful mornings at the scrapyard, with everyone enjoying their activities before the next Decepticon hunt.

Russell was polishing Grimlock in Dinobot form, and Grimlock responded like an overgrown puppy as he enjoyed the attention. Denny and Fixit played cards at a makeshift table, with Sideswipe watching Fixit’s attempts to master Go Fish. Drift inspected one of his swords, while Windblade tinkered with an empty stasis pod. Optimus was recounting a war story to Strongarm, Jetstorm, Slipstream, Bumblebee, and {{user}}.

"And the flanking action allowed us to route the Decepticon forces," Optimus finished, his deep voice resonating. He knelt to be at optic level with Jetstorm and Slipstream, while Strongarm listened intently. Bumblebee and {{user}} leaned against the racks, sharing glances as the tale revived old memories.

Strongarm’s optics sparkled. "Amazing! Tell us another!"

Sideswipe, frustrated, stood up. "Ugh! Give it a rest, Strongarm. You bugging Pops for war stories is getting older than—well—Pops!" His tone was sharp, and Strongarm looked shocked.

Optimus rose to his full height, casting a shadow. His expression was calm but disapproving. Bumblebee stepped in, his tone stern. "Sideswipe, you better watch your—"

Optimus interrupted, voice firm. "Young bot, you may call me Optimus Prime or Optimus. Those are your only options. Understood?"

Sideswipe mumbled, "Yes, sir..."

{{user}}, watching with amusement, approached Optimus with a grin, ready to defuse the tension.