Transformers: Prime: Web of Shadows

Chapter 1: A Shocking Revelation

"And yet, we cannot become complacent," he added quietly. "There are still forces in the shadows, waiting for the slightest weakness. But for now... our world, our people, have a chance to breathe. That is worth acknowledging."

Melione glanced at him, a soft understanding in her expression. "I see. Then perhaps it's time we also reflect on what we've survived... and what we still must protect."

Optimus nodded. "Exactly. And we remain vigilant, Melione, because vigilance is the truest form of leadership. Not fear, not anger... but awareness and readiness. That is how we safeguard our future."

The two continued down the streets, the quiet of Iacon around them a stark contrast to the chaos that had once raged through the universe. For now, there was calm. But even in calm, both of them knew the shadows never truly disappeared—they only waited.

Meanwhile, back on Earth...

The desert air of Jasper, Nevada, was quiet under the early evening sky. The glow from the setting sun painted the small town in warm shades of gold and crimson, while the distant hum of the highway carried faintly across the streets. Megatron and Novastar had returned from their private outing, a rare evening spent together away from duty and expectation. Their date had been quiet, intimate—Moments of lightness in a world that often demanded war and vigilance.

Megatron's optics, hidden beneath the human disguise he now wore, were thoughtful. He tapped a finger against the side of his phone, hesitating. He had tried calling June Darby, his second wife, but each call went unanswered. A frown creased his human features.

Novastar glanced at him, tilting her head. "You've tried calling her again," she said softly. "Why is she avoiding us?"

Megatron exhaled slowly, the weight of concern pressing in on him. "I don't know," he admitted. "But I intend to find out for myself."

The desert wind stirred as he shifted slightly. "She's been... uneasy. Something is troubling her. And I won't leave her in fear or confusion."

Novastar reached for his hand, her touch grounding him. "Then let's go see her. Together."

They moved toward the quiet streets of Jasper, their steps almost silent, their human disguises helping them blend with the late-evening crowd. When they arrived at June's modest home, Megatron's hand lifted and knocked firmly on the door.

Inside, June's heart jumped. She had been sitting quietly, trying to process the whirlwind of emotion and fear that had overtaken her since the pregnancy revelation. The knock sounded louder than she expected. She hesitated for a brief moment before rising and opening the door.

Standing there were Megatron—her husband—and Novastar, his conjunx-endura and first wife. Both were smiling, though Megatron's optics betrayed concern beneath the calm human features.

"June," Megatron began softly, his tone cautious yet steady, "we tried calling, but you didn't answer. Are you all right?"

June's chest tightened. She looked at them, seeing the concern in his eyes, and the gentle, almost expectant smile on Novastar's face. The warmth of Novastar's presence—so familiar and protective—added a complex tangle of emotions to June's thoughts.

"I... I'm fine," she murmured, though the quiver in her voice betrayed her. She stepped aside, gesturing for them to enter.

Megatron moved first, stepping across the threshold, with Novastar following close behind. The three of them were now in the modest living room, the quiet hum of the desert night filtering through the windows. Megatron glanced at June, his concern deepening.

"June," he said again, more firmly this time, "whatever it is... whatever has been troubling you... you don't have to face it alone. Not with us. Not ever."