The halls of the fortress were quiet, shadows stretching like chains. Megatronus’ steps echoed, but Prima heard them before he even entered the chamber. The firstborn was seated on a high stone bench, the Star Saber leaning at his side like an extension of his body. Golden light caught on his serene face, his posture soft, deceptively gentle, like a mother welcoming her child.

“You search for me, Megatronus,” Prima said without looking up, voice calm as still water. “Tell me—have you come with another quarrel, or something sweeter?”