Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Prowl looked up from his datapad at the tap on his window. He smiled, out of habit, glancing towards the door to his room to make sure it was closed before going over to open the window.

"Hey Prowl," Jazz grinned, leaning on the windowsill.

"Hello Jazz."

"I’m going on an energon run, wanna come with?"

Prowl hesitated. He didn’t like Jazz’s energon runs, but he hadn’t fueled yet today and he knew the cabinets were empty. His creator hadn’t been home in a few days, and he had no idea when he would be home, or if he would bring energon when he did.

"Come on Prowl," Jazz coaxed.

"All right, I’ll go."

Jazz grinned, moving aside so Prowl could climb out the window. He knew Prowl didn’t have a key to the front door. He didn’t know how Barricade expected him to stay locked in the apartment when he disappeared for days on end. Then again, knowing Barricade, he probably didn’t bother thinking about it.

Jazz took Prowl’s hand, and they set off towards downtown. They headed to the wealthy part of town. Staniz wasn’t exactly known for it’s prosperity, but there was an area of a few blocks around the capitol buildings that was designed not for the citizens, but the nobles. It was where the senators and other government officials stayed during the time they were forced to be in the city state they governed. Most had homes elsewhere on Cybertron, where they would spend most of their time, but running a city state required one to spend at least some time within that city state. So while the rest of Staniz struggled to survive, those that were meant to care for the people, lived in luxury.

"I’m in the mood for sweets," Jazz said, stopping near a confectionary shop.

"Jazz-"

"Prowler, come on!"

Prowl sighed, relenting.

"The usual?"

"Maybe they’d be willing to give us some, or let us work for-"

"Prowl, has that ever worked?"

"I don’t like stealing Jazz."

Jazz shrugged, "Neither do I. I’ll go in first, ok?"

With a sigh, Prowl nodded.

"Just make yourself look pretty," Jazz grinned, walking into the shop.

The shop keep was a tall slender bot with shiny blue paint, clearly something he had re-done regularly. "If you don’t have any shanix, get out," he said curtly. "This isn’t a museum. Not that I expect you to know that that is."

"I just wanted to buy some sweets, sir" Jazz said, as politely as he could manage.

"Yeah? Show me the shanix first."

Jazz frowned, "Would you ask me that if I was a senator’s creation?"

"That’s none of your concern, you scraplet. Now get out before I call the enforcers."

That was when the door opened and Prowl walked in.

"Hello and welcome!" the bot greeted him eagerly after getting a glimpse of his doorwings. "What can I help you find today young bot?"

Prowl’s frame was unusual in this part of Cybertron, as not many Praxians resided in Staniz. Most people assumed he was the creation of visiting diplomats from Praxus, and Jazz and Prowl used that to their full advantage.

Prowl held himself tall, maintaining perfect posture and keeping his doorwings high, "My creator gave me shanix to buy myself something sweet. Do you have gold rust sticks?"

Jazz turned away to hide the smirk he couldn’t keep off his face.

The shopkeeper cycled his optics in surprise, "Um, no, I’m afraid we don’t cary gold rust sticks, but I do have a fine selection of iron ones."

Prowl frowned, giving him his best disapproving look, "I do not care for iron."

"Well I’m sure we have something you’d like," he said, coming out from behind the counter.

Jazz slipped between the isles as he was distracted. He wasn’t going to be picky, but he did look to make sure he got his and Prowl’s favorites, stuffing energon gels, cobalt candies, and copper coated energon crystals into his subspace.

"In Praxus I only have gold rust sticks. Do you have any gold candies?" Prowl asked loudly, sounding quite annoyed. Jazz grinned, staying low as he moved to the other side of the store as Prowl led the shopkeeper away. He grabbed several handfuls of rust sticks, and then slipped behind the counter to pilfer a few energon pastries.

He was about to make his getaway, when he noticed some cubes of frothed energon smoothies. He grinned, grabbing three, one for himself, one for Prowl, and one to take home to his brother.

Jazz stepped out from behind the counter, making sure Prowl saw him before quietly slipping out the door.

"No, these are unacceptable! I will go find a reputable shop from which to purchase proper sweets," Prowl snapped, voice elevated, but just short of improper. He ignored the shopkeeper’s protests as he stormed out of the shop. As soon as he was out of view, he took off running towards the park where he knew Jazz would be waiting for him. He couldn’t wait to get his next upgrades so he could transform and drive.

He reached the park and slowed down, his fans running a few notches higher from the excursion. He found Jazz in their usual spot, an old bench nestled in a corner behind the public washracks. No one ever came around here, as the washracks no longer had working plumbing. The only other thing in this part of the park was an old race track, that was run down, and so full of potholes it was unusable.

They had made the space their own, decorating the back wall with artwork and pictures of crystals. Prowl dreamed of seeing real crystal gardens, the ones they had in Praxus and Iacon. But there was nothing like that in Staniz. The closest he had come to seeing real crystals was the tiny tabletop gardens they had in the fanciest shops downtown.

"Hey Prowl!" Jazz greeted him brightly as he approached. He had already spread out some of the goodies he had stolen for them to share. "We did great today! Look at all this!"

"Did you need to take so much?" Prowl asked.

"Did you hear how he talked to me? Slagger deserved it."

"Don’t curse Jazz."

Jazz stuck his glossa out at him. "Come on Prowler, you gotta admit, he was a slagger." Jazz held a rust stick out to him, "Besides, you know how much he was charging for these? You could get a dozen at the market for the price of just this one."

Prowl sat down, reluctantly taking the candy, "The cost to operate a shop downtown is likely significantly higher than-"

"Nope! No excuses," Jazz declared, popping an energon gel into his mouth.

Prowl sighed, knowing he wasn’t going to win the argument. He popped the rust stick in his mouth, sucking on it. It was the best thing he had tasted in orns. Of course, everything tasted better on a empty fuel tank.

"Hey, look what I found behind the counter!" Jazz said, pulling out two of the cubes from his subspace.

Prowl’s optics lit up as he took the cube, "Energon smoothies!"

"And pastries," Jazz smiled, handing him an energon cream filled puff.

Prowl’s objections to their illegal activities fell away as the sweet, frothy liquid hit his glossa. He hadn’t had fuel this indulgent in stellar cycles!

They stayed in the park for joors, talking and eating probably more than they should have, then divided the rest up for later. Jazz took some extra to share with his brother. He was older and able to work to help support their family, but even with the extra income, they barely got by.

Prowl got home and snuck back in through his window just as the streetlights started to come on. There was still no sign of Barricade. Prowl sighed, not sure if he was relieved or upset. Barricade spent most of his time either ignoring or criticizing him when he was here, but at the same time, Prowl didn’t particularly want to live on stollen candy for the next deca-cycle.

He kept his goodies stashed in his subspace, and went back to his desk, picking up his datapad to finish his schoolwork.

Chapter Text

"Prowl."

Prowl turned towards his best friend, surprised by the obvious distress in his voice. "Jazz? What’s wrong?"

Jazz looked like he was on the verge of tears. He stood there for a moment, then ran forward and collapsed into his arms. He buried his face in Prowl’s shoulder, clinging to him tightly as if his life depended on it.

"Jazz, what happened?" Prowl asked, holding him tightly, trying to comfort him.

It was almost two kliks before Jazz finally composed himself enough to speak, "I’m leaving."

"What?"

"My creators-" His voice hitched and he had to reset his vocalizer. "We’re moving. To Polyhex."

"What?"

"Next deca-cycle. Prowl, I don’t want to go!"

"I-" Prowl couldn’t think. Jazz was leaving. Jazz couldn’t be leaving. He held him tighter, as if it could keep him here. He knew he should say something, but he was stunned speechless. "Why?" he managed, finally.

"High Beam got a job," Jazz said, pulling back enough to look at him.

"But- Next deca-cycle?"

"That’s what they said. Prowl, what do I do?"

"I-" Prowl wanted to grab him, pull him close, tell him not to go, tell him they would figure something out. But he knew that wouldn’t work. Jazz always told him he was too practical. "That’s good though."

"What? Prowl-"

"You know how much they’ve been struggling. Polyhex-" Is on the other side of the planet, his processor reminded him. "Polyhex is better than Staniz."

"No it’s not. You’re not there."

"Jazz-"

"Prowl, how am I supposed to leave you? I- I love you."

Prowl did pull him close then, "I love you too Jazz." They clung to each other, each feeling like their spark was breaking. They had known each other nearly their entire lives. They couldn’t be more different, but they had always been there for each other. The thought of being apart now was unbearable.

"Stay with me tonight?" Jazz asked. "Can you?"

"Yes, of course."

"You won’t get in trouble?"

Prowl shook his head, "Barricade won’t care. He’s got his friends coming over to watch the game tonight."

Jazz wrapped his arms tighter around his neck.

Prowl spread his blanket down on the floor next to Jazz’s berth.

"No, recharge with me," Jazz said, picking it up and clumping up in his lap as he sat down on the berth.

No sooner had Prowl sat down next to him than Jazz leaned against him. Prowl wrapped an arm around his shoulders, resting his own helm on top of Jazz’s.

"I don’t want to leave."

"Yes you do. We’ve talked about it so many times."

Jazz scoffed, "Not like this. We were supposed to leave Staniz together. You were going to go to the academy, do something important. We would see Cybertron together."

"You’ll just have a head start. I’ll come visit you."

"When? In 20 vorn?"

"Jazz, it won’t be that long."

"Then give me a date. Tell me when I can see you again. Even when we get our upgrades, it’s too far to drive."

"Then I’ll take the transport. Once I’m old enough to work, I can get a job, save up-"

"Prowl you need to finish your studies, save anything you have for the academy. It’s your dream."

"My dream is to be with you."

"Mine too," Jazz said, shifting closer to Prowl, wrapping his arms around his waist. They stayed like that for a few moments, Prowl softly stroking Jazz’s shoulder. "Come with me," Jazz asked after a while.

"I’ll come as soon as I can. Maybe we can get a place together someday."

"No, Prowler. Come with me. Now."

"Jazz-"

Jazz sat up, looking at him, "My creators won’t mind, I’m sure of it. They love you."

"Jazz-"

"Barricade probably wouldn’t even notice you were gone."

"He would eventually."

"So what? He doesn’t care about you Prowl. You deserve better."

"Jazz-"

"Please Prowl. I don’t want to go to Polyhex alone."

"You won’t be alone, you’ll be with your family."

"Prowl, you’re my best friend."

"And you’re mine," Prowl said quietly.

"Then come with me."

"Barricade would be furious. He’d come after me."

"Why? He ignores you!"

"But he thinks I belong to him."

"You don’t."

"It doesn’t matter, Jazz. He wouldn’t let me go. He’ll say your family kidnapped me. Not because he wants me, but because he doesn’t want anyone else to take what’s his. Because- because he thinks I can’t possibly survive without him"

"You know that’s not true."

"I do. But he thinks I need him. He likes to believe he’s a good creator, a good mentor for me. If I left, he’d come after me, otherwise people would question that. And he’d be furious with me."

"Prowler," Jazz put his hand over Prowl’s comfortingly.

"We’ll comm Jazz. And video call. Maybe I can go to academy in Polyhex."

"That’s still a vorn away."

"It won’t be so bad Jazz."

"You’re a terrible liar Prowl," Jazz muttered, staring down at their hands.

Prowl looked up from his datapad at the tap on his window. He checked to make sure the door was closed before hopping up to open the window. "Barricade’s home," he whispered.

"He in a bad mood?"

"No, but…"

"I’ll be quick. I just stopped by to give you this," Jazz said, holding out a small box.

"What is it?" Prowl said, taking it carefully. The box was beautiful, made of high quality materials and was tied with beautiful red ribbon.

"Open it!"

Prowl carefully untied the ribbon and opened the small box. His mouth fell open as he did, his optics going to Jazz, who had a slag eating grin on his face as he watched him.

"Jazz… I-"

"I didn’t steal it, I bought it. With real shanix, just for you."

"Jazz, these are expensive!"

"It was the smallest one they had. The one crystal has a chip in it so they gave me a discount. I think the shopkeeper felt sorry for me actually," Jazz shrugged. "He was nice."

"How did you ever get the shanix for this?" Prowl asked, examining the tiny crystal garden he held in his hand. It was beautiful. There was an amethyst crystal growing in the center, surrounded by three smaller rose quartz, then a dozen tiny clear quartz. He held it up to the sun, watching the crystals sparkle in the light.

Jazz shrugged, "Here and there. I’ve been saving for a while," he confessed when Prowl gave him a look. "I was going to give it to you on your creation day, but since I won’t be here… Do you like it?"

"Jazz, I love it. Thank you." Prowl set the crystals down and reached out the window, pulling Jazz into a tight embrace. "I love you, Jazz."

"I love you to Prowler."

Prowl pulled away as he heard a noise in the hallway. "You’d better go. If Barricade catches you here-"

"Yeah. I’ll see you tomorrow?"

"Yes," Prowl smiled. He watched Jazz slip away before closing the window. He hadn’t heard anything else from the hall, so he doubted Barricade was coming to see him. He took a moment longer to admire the crystals before tucking them safely back in the box and stashing it in his subspace, the only place he could be sure Barricade wouldn’t find them.

"Come on Jazz!" High Beam called from the train.

Jazz hugged Prowl tighter.

"We’ll comm all the time Jazz," Prowl assured him. Acting like his spark wasn’t breaking was the hardest thing Prowl had ever done. But he knew if he broke down, Jazz would do something rash.

"I can stay with you."

"Barricade would never allow it, you know that."

"Prowl, I don’t want to leave you."

"Jazz! The train is about to leave!"

"Jazz…"

Jazz squeezed him tight once more before finally pulling away. "I love you," he said softly.

"I love you too."

"Promise. Promise we’ll see each other again."

"I promise. Whatever happens, I’ll never forget you Jazz. Once we’re old enough, we can go whenever we want. We can get a place together, somewhere nice. We can move to Iacon."

Jazz scoffed, "Yeah, right."

"It could happen," Prowl smiled. "Or I can go to Polyhex, or you can come back here. We’ll see each other again, I promise."

"JAZZ!"

Prowl pulled away.

"I’m not sayin’ goodbye."

Prowl leaned forward, pressing their forehelms together. "Neither am I," on impulse, he pulled Jazz closer, kissing him. Just a quick kiss, his first kiss.

Jazz pulled away, smiling, "I’ll comm you from the train."

The buzzer sounded, signaling the train’s impending departure.

Jazz turned, heading towards it just as his creator stepped off to come get him. The two disappeared into the rail car as Prowl watched, doing everything he could to hold back his tears. A moment later, Jazz’s helm popped out of of the train windows and he waived.

Prowl waived back as the train started moving. Heh kept waving long after he could no longer see Jazz, just the back of the train getting smaller and smaller as it took his best friend — his only friend — to the other side of the planet.

*Promise we’ll talk?* Jazz’s voice sounded scared. Prowl smiled, just a little. They could still comm, he reminded himself. They would never really be apart.

*Of course. I want to hear all about Polyhex.*

*It won’t be any fun without you.*

Chapter Text

*Prooooowleeer! I hate it here!*

*I assume your train arrived safely?*

*Yeah.*

*Have you considered seeing more of the city-state than the train station before deciding if you like it there?*

*I don’t need to. You’re not here.*

*Jazz.*

*Prowl.*

*Promise me you’ll give it a chance.*

*If I say no?*

*Please?*

*-SIGH- Fine.*

*Prowler I have my own room! I don’t have to share with Ricco!*

*That’s wonderful Jazz.*

*It’s so crowded here though. We’re right in the center of town.*

*That may make it easier to make new friends.*

*Yeah, I guess. You ok? How’s Staniz holding up without me?*

*Much more quiet.*

*You know you miss me.*

*Of course I do.*

*I miss you too Prowl.*

*Good morning Jazz.*

*Hey Prowl! How’re you doing?*

*…I am fine.*

*Prowl.*

*Barricade lost a lot gambling. He’s been screaming at me about everything.*

*Aww Prowl, I’m sorry. I wish I was there for you.*

*The new term starts tomorrow, I am looking forward to it.*

*You talk to anyone from class?*

*No.*

*You should comm Speedy, or Backfire, make plans to hang out.*

*Prowl?*

*I don’t think that’s a good idea, Jazz.*

*Prowl?*

*They are your friends, not mine.*

*That’s not true.*

*When does your term start?*

*Prowl, promise me you’ll try. Don’t just sit in the corner like you did the first time I saw you.*

*All right Jazz, I will speak to them.*

*Promise?*

*Yes, Jazz. But I would really like to know when your term starts.*

*Not till next deca-cycle.*

*Hey Prowl, how were your classes?*

*They were fine.*

*Make any friends?*

*… Speedy invited me to sit with him for midday fuel.*

*Good.*

*Jazz, I don’t need you to ask your friends to take pity on me.*

*Prowl-*

*I can take care of myself.*

*Prowl I just asked him to include you. We all hung out together before.*

*Jazz, please.*

*-Sigh- I don’t want you to be miserable, Prowl.*

*I miss you Jazz. Spending time with your friends will not change that.*

*They can be your friends too Prowl.*

*Jazz, you are the one who should be focused on making friends. Have you met anyone from Polyhex yet?*

*A few bots I guess. I still miss you*

*How are you doing Jazz?*

*Great! My creators said I can get my new frame upgrades soon! I’ll be able to get an actual alt mode!*

*That’s wonderful.*

*Prowler? What’s wrong?*

*Nothing.*

*Prowler.*

*I did not have a good cycle. But I don’t want to ruin yours.*

*I’m so sorry Prowl. What happened?*

*Barricade.*

*Did he hurt you?*

*No. He just said some things.*

*Words can hurt Prowl.*

*It’s nothing he hasn’t said before. He just- I think he knows just what to say to hurt me. Sometimes I think it’s the only thing he knows about me.*

*I’m so sorry. I wish I could be there for you. Is there anything I can do?*

*You can tell me about your new alt mode.*

*If you need to talk about it-*

*I need a distraction. I’m glad you’re happy Jazz. I want to hear all about it, please.*

*Well, I haven’t chosen an alt mode yet."

*I know you have looked though."

*Well, yeah.*

*What are you considering then?*

[Jazz has sent you an image - Open?]

[Y]

*That seems… very you.*

*Haha! I should take that as a compliment?*

*Of course.*

*Prowl! You still up?*

*Prowl?*

*Pit, I’m sorry I didn’t comm sooner. I went to this club last night… I’ll tell you all about it in the morning… if you want to hear about it. Just comm me as soon as you get up ok? I’m so sorry I didn’t talk to you today. I love you Prowler.*

*Good morning Jazz.*

*PROWL! I’m so sorry I missed you yesterday!*

*I’m not upset. I had a lot of classwork to do myself.*

*Still.*

*It’s no problem, I assure you. Did you have fun last night?*

*It was so great Prowl! I went with BassBoost and Flipside to this dance club. We had to sneak in, but it was amazing! The music was… I can’t even describe it! I wish you had been there.*

*I’m glad you had such a great time.*

*I think that’s what I want to do with my life.*

*What?*

*Music! The energy in that club was like nothing I’ve ever felt. I never heard real live music before. Not like that. I’m gonna learn to play, and I wanna be the one making others feel like that.*

*That doesn’t sound like a very practical career choice.*

*-Chuckles- You ever think of me as practical?*

*No.*

*It speaks to my spark Prowl.*

*How was your cycle?*

*Same old, same old. Classes, went to see a movie after. You?*

Just classes and schoolwork.*

*Nothing new then?*

*No, not today.*

*Well hopefully tomorrow will be more exciting.*

*Goodnight Jazz.*

*’Night Prowl.*

*Hey Prowl, sorry to comm so late, everything good?*

*Yes, I have exams tomorrow however, so I do need to recharge.*

*Good luck! I’m sure you’ll do great!*

*Thank you.*

*Night Prowl.*

*Goodnight Jazz.*

*Happy Creation Cycle Jazz.*

*Thanks Prowl! I wish ya could be here!*

*I wish that as well. Do you have plans?*

*A few friends and I are just gonna hang out. I think my creators have a surprise for me, they’re bein’ all cagey about it though.*

*I am sorry I cannot afford to send you a present.*

*Aww I don’t need anything Prowl! I just wanna be able to talk to ya.*

*I am here for you, Jazz. I always will be.*

*Thanks Prowler.*

*Prowl, ya still up?*

*Yes Jazz.*

*Sorry love, my friends threw my a surprise party! There was a live band, and we all danced for joors, and that surprise my creators had for me? It’s an electro-bass! My very own! I get to take lessons and everything! I actually get to create music!*

*That is wonderful. I’m glad you had such a wonderful creation cycle.*

*It was so great Prowl! The only thing missing was you. Slag I wish ya coulda been here.*

*I do as well.*

*If I saved up, got ya a ticket, do ya think Barricade would let ya come visit?*

*I… I doubt it.*

*Maybe you could come one of the times he goes out of town? Even for a cycle, he wouldn’t have to know you were ever gone.*

*I don’t know Jazz. He does not tell me when he is planning to leave."

*Then I’ll come visit! Maybe I can come for your creation cycle!*

*I would love that. But you should save your credits.*

*Tickets ain’t that expensive Prowl. My creators make real shanix now. I mean, we’re not livin’ in the towers or anything, but we’re not starving anymore either. Ricco even went back to school!*

*Perhaps.*

*Morning Prowl! Hope ya have a great cycle!*

*You as well Jazz.*

*Good morning Jazz.*

*Hey, Prowl! I was just practicing by electro-bass. What’s up?*

*I do not wish to disturb you if you are busy.*

*Nah, not at all. I always got time for ya.*

*I wanted to let you know I’ve been accepted into advanced classes in logistics.*

*Hey that’s fantastic! Congrats mech!*

*Thank you. It means spending more time in class…*

*And less time with Barricade?*

*Yes.*

*Good.*

*Are you enjoying playing music?*

*I love it! It’s like I was forged for it Prowl!*

*Perhaps, you could play me something?*

*Really? Yeah, I’d love to! Gimme a sec here. A’right. -Music plays-*

*That is that song you used to listen to, isn’t it?*

*Yeah, Come With Me. It’s the first thing I learned that wasn’t an assignment.*

*It was very good Jazz. You are indeed talented.*

*Thanks Prowler!*

*PROWL! LOOK!*

[Jazz has sent you an image - Open?]

[Y]

*Four shanix?*

*I know it’s not a lot, but it’s my cut from our first gig! We actually got paid to play a party! I mean, it was just a friends creation cycle party, and the gig paid 12 shanix, but it paid! I’m gonna frame them I think. Nah, I’m gonna use them to buy a frothed energon smoothie! That’s much better!*

*That’s wonderful Jazz.*

*Hey, ya doin’ ok Prowler? I mean, y’re fuelin’ and everythin’, right?*

*Barricade has been good at keeping the cabinets stocked lately.*

*I’m sorry.*

*For what?*

*I don’t know. Everything has just been goin’ so great for me lately, and you’re still suck there with Barricade. I just feel awful about it.*

*Please don’t Jazz. I’m glad you’re happy. I’m glad Polyhex is working out for you. I miss you, of course, but I would hate it if you were unhappy.*

*I miss ya too Prowl. I haven’t met anyone here like you. You’re still my best friend. No matter how far apart we are, you always will be.*

*I have wonderful news Jazz. I am finally getting my frame upgrades.*

*PROWLER! That’s wonderful! Barricade finally caved?*

*Not exactly. The school contacted him, informed him that I cannot start another term unless I have an alt mode.*

*That- Wow that’s harsh.*

*I should have gotten the upgrades three stellar cycles ago. The next term of studies focuses heavily on driving and the laws of the road.*

*Well, I mean as long as it means ya get an alt mode, that’s what matters, right?*

*Yes, I agree.*

*Hey, I got the perfect alt for ya!*

[Jazz has sent you an image - Open?]

[Y]

*I think that may be too-*

*It’s perfect for ya!*

*I think it would be more suitable for you.*

*Nah, I love my model 3X. But just think about how good we would look drivin’ down the streets together.*

*I do not think that is likely to happen any time soon.*

*I know ya Prowler. Y’re thinkin’ about gettin’ some borin’ standard model. But that’s not you, ya have the capacity for a high performance engine. Ya should get something that supports it!*

*High performance engines require more maintenance.*

*I guess. But it’s not that bad, it’s not like y’re gonna stress things by speeding down the freeway.*

*I’m afraid Barricade would not pay for the required maintenance.*

*He- Slag Prowl…*

*It is something I have come to terms with. I can always upgrade later, once I am in my adult frame and able to support myself.*

*Ya shouldn’t have to.*

*I know. But that changes nothing.*

*I’m comin’ to see ya Prowl!*

*What? When?*

*For y’r creation cycle! I saved up the shanix from my allowance and what I’ve got playin’ gigs.*

*Jazz, my creation cycle is in the middle of the term. You cannot neglect your classes.*

*Seein’ ya is way more important than classes.*

*Jazz…*

*Don’t ya wanna see me Prowler?*

*Of course I do. But…*

*But what?*

*Jazz I have so much schoolwork this term, and Barricade…*

*Barricade what?*

*He never lets me out of the apartment anymore, since I got my upgrades.*

*What? That- Prowl ya can’t live like that.*

*I do not have much choice.*

*Prowl ya can’t just spend your cycles locked in y’r room.*

*He allows me to go to classes.*

*That’s not living Prowl. Ya need to do something.*

*It will not be long until I am able to get my final upgrades. Once I do, he will not be able to control what I do.*

*He shouldn’t be able to now. This can’t be legal!*

*He is my creator and my mentor."

*Prowler… I’m coming. I can’t let ya just-*

*Jazz, please don’t.*

*…*

*I am all right. Seeing you- It would just make it harder right now.*

*Prowl…*

*It’s all right Jazz. I have little to do outside the apartment anyway, I don’t mind staying in.*

*Prowl, y’re a great mech. Ya can make friends, I know it.*

*I will, once I get accepted into the academy. Now, the best thing I can do is study and earn as many credits as I can so I have the best chances of that.*

*Just let me come Prowl. Just for a cycle.*

*If Barricade finds out-*

*He won’t! Pit, if y’re that worried, we’ll stay in, ok? We can just stay in y’r room and talk.*

*We can talk over comms.*

*I miss ya Prowl. I want to see ya. I want to see y’re ok. I’m worried about ya.*

*Please don’t be. I am fine. I enjoy my studies. If I see you, it will just remind me of everything we can’t have anymore. I- I don’t think I could live with that Jazz. I don’t think I could say goodbye again.*

*Prowl. I’m-*

*I know. It’s ok. But, please, don’t come.*

*If y’re sure…*

*I am.*

*All right Prowler. Whatever ya want. I love ya.*

*I love you too, Jazz.*

*Hey Prowler. It ok if I wish ya a happy creation cycle?*

*Of course Jazz. Thank you.*

*Did ya get my present?*

*No, did you send me something?*

*Yea, over a deca-cycle ago. Ya should have gotten it by now.*

*I- Barricade may have taken it.*

*He’d steal y’r creation cycle present?*

*I would not put it past him.*

*Scrap mech. I’m sorry.*

*I can ask him, but…*

*Don’t do anythin’ that’s gonna get ya in trouble.*

*What did you get me?*

"A box of gold rust sticks.*

*There is no such thing.*

*Haha! A’right, they were regular rust sticks. But I’d hoped ya could eat them while ya listen to this.*

[Jazz has sent you an audio file - Open?]

*It’s a song I wrote for ya*

*Jazz, thank you. That is so thoughtful.*

*Hope ya like it. I miss ya Prowler.*

*And I you, Jazz. I’m sorry, I need to get to class. Is it alright if I listen to it later?*

*Course, whenever ya have time. Comm me anytime ya wanna talk too.*

*Jazz the song was beautiful. Thank you so much.*

*Yeah? Ya liked it? I wasn’t sure if I should send it…*

*No, it was perfect. Thank you.*

*I love ya Prowler.*

*I love you too Jazz.*

*Good morning Jazz. I hope you have a wonderful cycle.*

*Same to ya love!*

*Hey, I just realized it’s been an orn since we talked. How’ve ya been Prowler?*

*I am well. I spend most of my time studying.*

*Y’re gonna get into the academy in Iacon, I just know it.*

*I hope so.*

*Ya must be brilliant by now, all the studyin’ ya do. Slag, ya were brilliant before. Now y’re mega brilliant.*

*I will be sure to put that on my application.*

*Good morning Jazz.*

*Mornin’ Prowl!*

*S’up Prowler?*

*I have little to report. How are your classes going?*

*Meh, they’re classes. I’m passin’.*

*I miss ya sometimes Prowl. A lot.*

*Are you all right?*

*Yeah, just wish I could see ya again.*

*I miss you as well.*

*Hey Prowl, what’s up?*

*I apologize for not responding last night, I was working.*

*Workin’? Ya got a job?*

*Yes, about an orn ago. I thought I told you.*

*Nah, I didn’t know. Barricade let ya?*

*I- I may have misled him into thinking I am taking additional classes in the evenings.*

*Prowler! Look at ya bein’ deceitful! Guess I rubbed off on ya somewhat after all. So whatcha doin?*

*I am working part time at a cafe. It is hardly ideal but it affords me flexible joors and lets me earn credits for the academy. If I get accepted.*

*Y’ll definitely get accepted Prowler. They’d be idiots not to."

*Thank you, Jazz. I hope you are correct.*

*I know I am.*

*Happy All Spark Cycle Prowl!*

*You as well Jazz. It is good to hear from you.*

*You too! Ya doin’ anything fun?*

*Barricade and I are going to the energon fountain in the town square.*

*Really?*

*I suppose he is feeling sentimental.*

*How ya feel about that?*

*I’m not certain. It would be nice to visit the fountain, I suppose.*

*Well I hope it’s a good cycle. Comm me if ya need to talk, ok?*

*I will, thank you.*

*How is your music going Jazz?*

*It’s great! We got a fourth for our band, and we’re playin’ gigs about once a deca-cycle now.*

*How’re y’r studies goin’? Applied to academy yet?

*Next orn.*

*They’ll be fightin’ to accept ya.*

*I hope so. I will need a scholarship to attend.*

*I know y’ll get it Prowl.*

*Thank you.*

*Happy Festival of Primes Jazz. I hope all is well.*

*Great! Polyhex is having a huge parade! I’m actually on my way there now. How about you?*

*Nothing special, I went out for energon.*

*With friends?*

*There were other’s from my class there.*

*I’m glad y’re spending time with someone outside of Barricade.*

*Yes, some. Enjoy the parade Jazz."

*Thanks Prowler!*

*Hey Prowler! A friend just got his acceptance notice to the Academy of Polyhex. Ya heard anythin’ from the schools ya applied to yet?*

*Not yet. I understand those who reside in the same city-state where the academy is hear first.*

*Well good luck, not that y’ll need it. Lemme know when ya hear, ok?*

*I will. Thank you.*

*I have been accepted to the academy of Praxus.*

*Prowl that’s fantastic! I’m so happy for ya! Is that where y’re gonna go?*

*I have not yet heard back from all the places where I applied, but I believe so. They gave me a full scholarship and I would qualify for a work study program.*

*That’s so great. I’m thrilled for ya. Not that I ever had any doubt! Y’re the hardest working bot I know.*

*Thank you Jazz. I’m just glad my hard work paid off.*

*When do ya start? Maybe ya could pass through Polyhex on y’r way there?*

*I’m not sure yet. But I could try to take a few cycles. It would be good to see you.*

*Absolutely Prowl.*

*Prowler! We’re goin’ on tour!*

*With your band?*

*Yep!*

*That’s wonderful Jazz.*

*Looks like both are dreams are comin’ true now.*

*Yes, it is wonderful.*

*Jazz, I have good news. My classes at the academy start a deca-orn after I finish my last term here. I can’t stay long, but I can visit you in Polyhex for a few cycles. If you still want me to of course.*

*Yeah! Of course I do! I can’t wait to see ya! When will ya get here?*

*Two orn from now. I’ll be leaving on the seventh.*

*The seventh?*

*Yes. Is that a problem?*

*No, no it’s just, that’s actually- We’re supposed to be in Helix then.*

*You will be on tour.*

*It’s a’right Prowl. I’ll cancel.*

*You can’t do that Jazz. I know how much it means to you.*

*It’s ok Prowl. I’d rather see ya. It’s not like it’s something that’s gonna make us rich and famous, it’s-*

*It’s your dream Jazz. You said so.*

*But y’re Prowl.*

*I could never ask you to give up the tour for me. I wouldn’t be able to stay for more than two or three cycles anyway. Your tour will last much longer than that.*

*Maybe I can skip the first part? Join the band later.*

*Can they play without you?*

*I- They can find a replacement.*

*Jazz, no. I will not let you cancel your tour.*

*I haven’t seen ya in nearly a vorn Prowler.*

*Perhaps you can schedule a tour in Praxus one cycle. Or I can come see you on break.*

*Yeah. Yeah I guess. Are ya sue ya don’t want me to cancel? I can play anytime Prowl.*

*Not on tour. We will see each other another time.*

*Promise?*

*I promise.*

Chapter Text

Prowl looked at the enforcer precinct. It was clean, and well maintained, and looked to almost shine in the bright light of day. It was his dream, and now it was his life. He had graduated at the top of his class at the academy, and had received multiple offers to join various law enforcement agencies and legal offices from all over Cybertron.

Growing up, he had always dreamed of moving to Iacon. With Jazz. But that was a long time ago.

For a moment he debated comming his old friend. He always used to tell Jazz whenever something good happened in his life. But they hadn’t spoken in nearly three vorn. After he had started at the Praxus Academy, and Jazz’s music career had taken off, they had grown apart. Soon they just sent message on holidays and creation cycles, and eventually, even those had stopped.

Prowl missed him sometimes, Jazz had been the best friend he had ever had. But they had always been so different, he supposed once they were apart there had been no chance of maintaining their friendship. It was probably best to leave things in the past. Jazz would always be the happy memories from his sparklinghood, but their friendship was never destined to last.

Praxus was his home now. He belonged here. He had never stepped foot in the city-state until he had been accepted into the academy, but Praxus was his heritage, and it felt like he had lived here all his life. Everything before, Barricade, Staniz, Jazz, that had been another lifetime. One he could barely remember sometimes.

So when it had been time to choose his career, it had been an easy decision. And now he was an enforcer of Praxus. It was his job to uphold the law, protect the citizens — his fellow Praxians, and maintain peace and order. He was happy. He couldn’t think of anything he wanted more.

Prowl took another moment to look up at the building. He took an image capture, even though he knew he would see this building nearly every cycle, hopefully for the rest of his functioning. This was a moment he wanted to remember.

With a rare, small smile on his face, he started up the steps up to the building, and to his new life.

Jazz looked out over the crowd from backstage, over 3000. It was the biggest audience they had ever played to. Other than music festivals with potentially dozens of bands. But tonight it was just his band they had come to see. There was an opening act, but they were the headliners. Everyone was here to hear them play. It was an incredible rush!

Jazz wasn’t in it for the fame, he liked sharing his music, liked making bots feel some of what he felt when he played.

A flash of white caught his optic and Jazz did a double take. There was a white Praxian in the crowd. For just a moment, he thought it was Prowl. But the mech had a green chevron and yellow optics, and considering he was making out with his companion in front of everyone, Jazz knew it couldn’t be Prowl.

He felt a pang of sadness in his spark. The two had been inseparable when they were young. No one would have ever expected them to become friends, but Prowl had meant more to him in those days than anyone had since. Once his family had moved to Polyhex, they had grown apart though. He supposed it was inevitable, they both changed under very different circumstances, developed their own interests. They had already been so different to begin with.

Jazz regretted loosing touch with him. He often thought what would have happened if he had cancelled that first tour. Of course, that had been the tour that had launched their career. He honestly didn’t know if he had made the right decision. He should have tried harder to see Prowl after. Life just kept happening, things would come up, a gig for him, and exam for Prowl, before he knew it, it had been six orns since they had talked.

He had thought about visiting Prowl for All Spark Day, but Rico had announced his plans to bring home his intended then. Jazz couldn’t very well pass up the opportunity to meet the mech who would be his brother’s conjunx.

Jazz sighed, leaning back against the wall. He checked his tour schedule, but there was nothing about Praxus. Honestly, he didn’t even know if Prowl was even still there. He would have graduated the academy by now, wouldn’t he? Maybe he moved to Iacon like they had always planned.

He should send him a comm. Maybe invite him to a show. Prowl had always said he liked his music. Maybe he would for his creation day. It was a few orns away. He sent a message to his agent asking if he could book them a show in Praxus. He knew it was a long shot, they didn’t play the type of music that was popular in Praxus, but it was worth a shot. If Prowl was still there, he was sure he could find a way to see him.

Prowl read the reports on the Decepticon attacks this deca-cycle. They were getting more frequent and more violent. He calculated a 98.5% chance that an all out war would break out within the vorn.

Praxus had officially announced their intent to remain neutral in the Decepticon insurrection. Prowl understood their decision, and as Commander of the 264th precinct, he supported it. But privately, he wasn’t sure he agreed with it. He could understand the criticism the Decepticons had against the senate, he had grown up amongst that discrimination, experienced it first hand, to an extent anyway.

But he could not approve of their methods. Violence was not a way to solve anything. The Autobots seemed to be a much better option. They wanted to change things from within. The mech who had become the face of the movement was a data clerk, certainly not someone of high enough class to be in league with the senate and the nobles.

If Praxus allied with the Autobots, he calculated Praxus’ defenses would be strengthened by 67.1% against outside attack, and the Autobots would be able to gain valuable resources to help the war efforts. He had submitted his projections to the chief of enforcers, but he had been told it was not his place to calculate such things. If a war were to come, the Praxus military were better trained to handle it.

So Prowl had put his calculations aside, focusing on the work he was meant for. If anyone were to ask his position, he would say he trusted the Praxian government’s decisions and fully supported their choice to remain neutral. He just hoped that it was really the right decision.

Jazz stared at the report. He felt the energon drain from his face even as his fans clicked on in response to his rapidly heating frame. "It’s just… gone?"

"We haven’t been able to get troops on the ground yet, but initial reports from orbital scans show that’s the city’s been completely decimated."

"Slag," he barely felt the word slip from his glossa. He barely felt anything. Praxus had been neutral. The Decepticons had no reason to attack the city-state. He pulled up the numbers on his HUD, Praxus’ current population was listed as 52,892,512. 53 million bots. He wondered how many survivors they would find.

"I’m goin’," he said, handing the datapad back to the mech.

"What? But-"

"I’m joinin’ the rescue efforts. I’m out on the next transport leavin’ to pick up survivors."

"You-you can’t!"

"Watch me!" Jazz snapped, spinning around.

"Optimus Prime wants to see you. He said he has a special assignment for you."

Jazz’s resolve wavered. It’s not like he’d never disobeyed an order before, but not one directly form Optimus Prime. He didn’t even know if Prowl was in Praxus. He’d checked with the enforcers in Iacon soon after he’d come here, but Prowl had never worked for them. Sill that didn’t mean he’d stayed in Praxus. He could have been anywhere on Cybertron when the bombs fell.

"Fine," he said, quieter than normal, then turned, walking towards Prime’s office. He couldn’t help feel like he was making the wrong choice.

Chapter Text

Prowl stood on the balcony, watching the sun rise over Iacon. The scattered clouds near the horizon glowed beautiful shades of gold and red. Prowl barely saw it.

It had been a deca-cycle since the bombs had fallen and he still felt numb. 52,892,331 dead or unaccounted for. All presumed dead. Less than 200 survivors had been saved from the wreckage. Less than 200 from a populations of almost 53 million. It was unthinkable.

Prowl had been lucky. He had survived the collapse of the precinct with only minor injuries, and managed to stay alive long enough to be rescued.

No one Prowl knew had survived. None of the enforcers from his precinct, no one he had known back at the academy, none of his neighbors, nor the server at the cafe he visited every morning before work who prepared his energon exactly the way he liked it.

He felt like it should hurt more. Like he should cry, or scream, or break down, but he just felt numb. He turned around, going back inside. He looked down at the datapad sitting on the table, a red Autobot symbol rotating slowly on the screen.

The Autobots had been the ones to send rescue teams, the ones who pulled him out of the rubble. He had been flown to Iacon, and treated by a mech he later learned was the Prime’s personal physician.

He had been discharged from the med bay two cycles ago, and the first thing he had done was ask to join the Autobots. He had a meeting in a few joor to discuss his new position.

The sun finally rose over the buildings. Iacon shimmered just like he had always imagined when he was young. It was beautiful, but still, Prowl felt nothing, just numb.

Optimus had sent Jazz on a recon mission. The bombing of Praxus had escalated the war to a new level, one they hadn’t anticipated, at least not this soon. As much as Jazz had wanted to go to Praxus to help with the rescue, he had been the best choice for the mission. He had speed, stealth, and cunning. He could hack, but he could also kill, and he could do both quietly.

It had been the right choice. The intel Jazz had gained showed attacks the Decepticons had planned that would potentially double the casualties in Praxus, including plannes for the bombing of the capitol buildings of Iacon. If they were successful, it might cost the Autobots the war.

He unloaded the information to the proper channels as quickly as he could, then immediately set off to find a list of the survivors from Praxus. His spark constricted as he saw the numbers. 181 Praxians had been rescued alive. Seven of those were still in critical condition.

He read through the reports as quickly as he could. They apparently still had rescue efforts on the ground, but their numbers were dwindling every cycle. No one had been found alive in 42 joor and it would be just a matter of time before they stopped looking.

The Decepticons hadn’t returned at least. They had apparently bombed Praxus to make a point, now that they had, they didn’t care what happened with the ruins.

Jazz reached the last two pages of the report, the pages that held the names of those that had been rescued. Not seeing his name didn’t mean he was dead, he reminded himself. Prowl could have been anywhere on Cybertron when the bombs fell.

He started going through the list of names. It couldn’t have just been alphabetical, could it? No, that would have been to ea-

Jazz let out a vent he hadn’t realized he’d been holding. Enforcer Commander Prowl of Praxus, originally of Staniz Jazz felt his leg struts wobble and he collapsed back against the wall. Prowl was ok. He was alive and he was- could he be here? Most of the survivors had been flown to Iacon.

Jazz clicked on his name. Not only was Prowl in Iacon, he was on this base! He had requested to join the Autobots. Jazz could have laughed. He was going to see Prowl again, after all these vorns, after everything. The circumstances were probably the worse he could imagine, but all he could think about right now was pulling Prowl into his arms and never letting go.

He checked the file again to find out where he was staying, then took off, just short of running to his room. He had no idea if Prowl even would want to see him, he had no idea what he would say to him - What could he say? He had just lost his home and everyone he had known. But he had to see Prowl. He had to see for himself that he was ok, and he just hoped that Prowl would want to see him. It was damned near irrational, but hey, when had he ever been considered rational?

Jazz reached the door, and suddenly all his conviction drained out of him like a shattered energon cube. What exactly was he going to say? He knew nothing about Prowl anymore. He hadn’t seen the mech in, what, 15 vorn? What if Prowl wanted to be alone? He shouldn’t just intrude on him like this. He should send a message, asking if he wanted to see him. That was the proper way to do things, wasn’t it?

But just as he didn’t consider himself terribly rational, Jazz considered himself even less proper. Before he could think better of it, he sent a ping to the door. And he waited. It felt like an eternity, he wondered if Prowl had left the room, he could have gone down to the cafeteria, or perhaps he had left early for the meeting Jazz had seen he was scheduled for later. He could have gone to the medbay if he wasn’t feeling well, or he could be spending time with the other Praxians on base.

His chronometer informed him that it was only 11 seconds since he had knocked when the door slid open.

"Yes?" Prowl’s tone was calm, formal. He was beautiful, Jazz thought. His paint job was white and black, with a brilliant red chevron. His frame suggested he had eventually followed his suggestion and obtained an alt mode with a racing engine, although that may have had something to do with his chosen profession. He held his doorwings high, polite, formal, and at attention, just like he used to do when they were young.

"Hey Prowler," Jazz said, his voice came out softer than he intended, barely above a whisper.

Prowl stared at him. "Jazz?" he asked finally.

"Yea. Heard ya were here."

"I-" Prowl took a step forward before seemingly reconsidering. He stepped back instead, gesturing inside, "Please, come in."

"Thanks," Jazz walked inside, looking around. He wasn’t sure what he was expecting to see, it was a standard room intended for visiting dignitaries and officials. They had kept a handful of these rooms when they remodeled the the Primal Complex to serve as Autobot Headquarters.

Jazz looked at Prowl instead. He looked good, great actually, consideting. Jazz would have never expected he had been at the worst tragedy in Cybertronian history just a deca-cycle ago. "Prowl, I’m sorry."

Prowl’s expression fell. He had heard it a thousand times, but- He took an unsteady step towards the couch.

"Prowl? Ya ok?" Jazz asked, reaching out to steady him. He helped him the few steps over to the couch and they sat down.

"I just," Prowl looked up, into his visor. It was Jazz, he was here and he was… Jazz. The numbness he felt shattered like a glass wall and the pain flooded in. Prowl collapsed against him with a sob.

"Prowler-" Jazz wrapped his arms around him.

"Praxus is gone."

"I know," Jazz whispered. "I’m so sorry Prowl."

"It was my home. It was more my home than Staniz ever was, and now it’s gone."

Jazz hugged him tighter. It should have been awkward, Prowl had never been one for physical affection, even when they were young, but this was Jazz. His best friend, the mech he had trusted with everything, the one who was always there for him. The first mech he had ever loved. Prowl buried his face in his shoulder. "Stay," he mumbled. "Please."

"Course I will Prowler," Jazz promised. "I ain’t ever gonna loose ya again."

"Promise?"

"I swear on my very spark."

Prowl wanted to cry, he wanted to break down and tell him everything, share all the pain he felt, pain he didn’t even know he had just a breem ago. But he had a meeting. With the Prime. He forced himself to pull away, avoiding optic contact, "I’m sorry."

"Prowler, ya ain’t got nothin’ to be sorry about."

"I do. I have to go. I have a meeting-"

"Ya can reschedule if ya need some time."

"No, it is with Optimus Prime to discus-" his voice hitched.

"Prowler, Optimus is cool, he’ll understand."

"He- he is the Prime, Jazz," Prowl barely got the words out. He didn’t want this, not now. He needed time, he needed Jazz. He felt ridiculous. He felt the same way as when Barricade had yelled at him when he was a sparkling and Jazz was there to comfort him.

"Nah, Prowler. Hang on." *Hey Optimus, I know y’re meetin’ with Prowl today, but ya mind reschedulin’? He’s an old friend an’ I could use some time with him.*

Optimus’ reply came almost immidiately. *Of course Jazz. I am glad you were able to reunite. Have Prowl reschedule with Jump Drive later this deca-cycle.*

Jazz pinged a thanks then gave Prowl a smile, "Well I just rescheduled for you."

"What?"

"I commed Optimus-"

"Jazz!"

"Mech, it’s fine. I told him we needed some time to catch up."

"I-" Prowl was about to object, but Jazz gave him one of those brilliant smiles and his protests were forgotten.

Suddenly, Jazz stood up and Prowl felt a bit of internal panic, reaching up to grab his arm, "Jazz-"

"’S a’right Prowler, I’m just gonna get a blanket."

Prowl hesitated a moment, but released him, "Why?"

Jazz turned, grinning as he walked backwards across the room, "Remember what we used to do when ya came over?"

"We did many things," Prowl said, watching Jazz pull both blankets out of the small closet. He came back over to the couch, wrapping one around Prowl’s shoulders.

He should object to the treatment, but the nostalgia that washed over him at the act quelled any protests his processor may have had. He held out an arm to Jazz, who promptly tucked himself in, spreading the second blanket across both their laps. In a moment of complete spontaneity and self indulgence, Prowl pulled his pedes up on the couch and snuggling closer to him. Jazz put an arm around his shoulders comfortingly.

They sat in silence for a moment, just enjoying each others company. "Thank you," Prowl said, voice barely above a whisper.

"I’m sorry Prowler. I shoulda come see ya sooner. I thought about it so many times…"

"As did I."

The silence was anything but awkward. It was as if they had never been apart.

"So, what movie ya wanna watch?" Jazz asked finally.

"You may choose."

"I’m warnin’ ya, ya ain’t gonna like my choice."

"I do not mind."

Jazz shrugged as best as he was able to from his position and sent a ping to the vid screen. A moment later a movie began playing.

Prowl lifted his head too look at Jazz when he recognized it, "Jazz."

"I told ya ya wouldn’t like it."

"Jazz this movie is for sparklings."

"Yep!"

"You made me watch this 462 times in our youth."

"Ain’t stoppin’ till we get to 500," Jazz grinned, staring intently at the screen, even as he tightened his arm around Prowl’s shoulders, encouraging him to settle back down.

Prowl stared at him a moment longer, then sighed, resigning himself to his fate. He should have known better. Still, he couldn’t help the smile that crossed his face. His sparklinghood had certainly left much to be desired, but Jazz had made it all worth it. Now, in what was undoubtedly the hardest time in his life, he had come back to him. If Prowl believed in such things, he would have thought surely he was a gift from Primus.

"Rust stick?" Jazz asked, pulling one out of his subspace.

Prowl’s optics lit up and he took it, "Do you make a habit of carrying candy around with you at all times?"

"Yup! Never know when y’re gonna need it after all."

Prowl sucked on the sweet rust stick, savoring the flavour. "Too bad they’re not gold though," he said with a small smile.

Jazz snorted, "Next time."

Chapter Text

Prowl had barely gotten out of his berth before a ping came at the door. Then another, and another. Prowl sighed, wondering what could possibly be so important this early in the morning.

"Jazz?" He asked opening the door. He had never seen the other awake before joor ten. And he had the key code to his door.

"Happy creation cycle Prowler!" Jazz exclaimed, shoving a beautiful wrapped box at him.

Prowl took it, trying to process what was happening. He had not had his morning fuel yet and it was far too early to understand Jazz’s antics. "Thank you, but this was not necessary."

"Course it was! It’s y’r creation day!"

"Thank you," Prowl repeated. "Would you care to come in?"

"Love to!"

Prowl set the box down on the table and went over to the energon dispenser, pouring two cubes.

"Thanks," Jazz said, taking the one Prowl handed him and setting it down in front of him. "Ya gonna open y’r gift?"

"Now?"

"Yeah now!" Jazz grinned, pushing it across the small table towards him.

Prowl took a long drink of his energon before picking up the box. It was wrapped in gold foil with a silver bow. "You really did not need to get me anything Jazz. Creation cycles are created for sparklings."

Jazz scoffed, "Open the gift Prowler, or I arrange for a surprise party for ya tonight."

Prowl shot him a glare, but started gingerly unwrapping the box. Once the foil was removed — intact, so it could be reused — he lifted the lid of the box. Inside were a dozen rust sticks. He picked one up, noticing it looked different, shiny.

"Rust sticks?" he asked, looking at Jazz.

"Gold rust sticks."

"There’s no such things."

"There is now! I had Wheeljack workin’ on 'em for deca-cycles. Try one!"

Prowl examined the candy closely. Gold did not rust, even when combined in an alloy, that alloy would eventually tarnish, not rust. Tentatively, he picked one up, giving it a lick. "The flavour is… interesting."

Jazz bust out laughing, "It sure is!" He grabbed one of the sticks from the box, sucking on it. "Does kinda grow on ya though."

"How did Wheeljack get the gold to bond with iron?" he asked, taking another lick.

Jazz shrugged, "Somethin’ about magnets. Y’know how he gets when he starts talkin’ science."

Prowl sucked on the stick thoughtfully. It didn’t taste bad, really, and it was sweet. But there was some odd underlying flavour that he couldn’t quite place. Something compelled him to keep eating it until he figured it out.

"Whatcha thinkin’?" Jazz asked.

"I was just thinking that I would love to get a box of these to that shopkeeper in Staniz."

Jazz chuckled, "I wonder if he ever figured out we were scammin’ him. Did you ever go back there? After I left?"

"No. I did not have the same audacity as you."

"Wish I hadn’ta left ya Prowler."

"You did not have a choice. Your had to go with your creators."

"Yeah, but, I always wondered, y’know? What woulda happened with us."

Prowl reached out, taking his hand, "I never wondered Jazz. You are the other half of my spark. I have always known that, even when I was too young to name it."

A smile spread over Jazz’s face, "I love ya Prowler."

"I love you too, Jazz.