Chapter Text
Ever since the Space Bridge incident, things back at the base was pretty calm. Decepticon activity had come to a halt with no sightings. Though that wouldn’t stop Cliffjumper’s constant pestering to Ratchet to let him go out on patrol with Arcee. But there was only so much he could do when she agreed with Ratchet. Arcee didn’t want to take any chances. So Ghost would often spend time with the mech. It was comforting to the both of them since Ghost couldn’t really go out either. At least not without the risk of being spotted by curious humans. But Ghost was content with staying at the base.
They were more concerned about Cliffjumper’s wellbeing. That last encounter with his void didn’t sit well with Ghost. It just proved that they didn’t fully understand what was happening with Cliff. And that terrified them. They stayed by Cliffjumper’s side, hoping to figure out something new. It became obvious after a while that there wasn’t anything Ghost could really do. The only hint they had was that Cliffjumper had to regulate his emotions. To not let them get the better of him. A part of Ghost wondered if they had to comprehend his cybertronian anatomy. Maybe there was something there that could answer their questions. Their concerns. Ratchet could provide these answers. Ghost can share what they know. With their combined knowledge, they could help Cliffjumper. Maybe it was about time they learned how.
There were many things Ghost encountered in their journey throughout Hallownest. Some familiar, some unknown. The same could be said here in this new world. They weren’t shy from learning new things. So when the children brought them this little alphabet sheet and writing board, they were enthusiastic to try it out. The shapes of the letters were different compared to back home, but seemed simple enough. For a time, the children pointed out the letters and sounded them out. It was amusing to witness each child’s teaching method.
“There are a lot of rules when it comes to learning English. Some words sound the same but mean different things. Some words are written the same but have different sounds…” Raf continued his explanation, adding many other rules for Ghost to learn. They were getting a bit overwhelmed. Maybe this wouldn’t be as easy, Ghost thought. Raf’s explanation was interrupted by Jack.
“I think you are overwhelming Ghost, Raf. I can take over for you.” Jack declared, not waiting for Raf’s answer. He handed Ghost the dry erase board and a marker.
“Ok so practice tracing the letters. Then I’ll have you write some sentences.” Jack said, pointing at the alphabet sheet he was holding up. He flinched as Miko snatched the sheet away from him.
“Really? Ghost hasn’t even learned all the letters yet and you want them to write already?! And you guys say I’m impatient.” Miko remarked as she guided Ghost away from Jack. He looked at her offended and too stunned to speak.
“Don’t worry. I’ll do a much better job.” Miko assured, confident in her skills. Though Ghost’s study session with Miko was cut short, once Raf realized what was being taught. Jack gave Miko a deadpanned look once he heard what Raf whispered to him. She froze when she saw both boys standing behind her with their arms crossed.
“Miko. Nothing wrong with Japanese, but we agreed to teach Ghost English first so we could all understand them.” Jack told her as she rolled her eyes.
“Hey! English is my second language. I just thought teaching them Japanese would be cool too.” Miko shrugged. “Besides I’m sure Raf would’ve wanted to teach them Spanish.” Raf unfurled his arms.
“Actually I was gonna suggest morse code so Ghost could understand Bee. I also wanted to teach you and Jack too. But Spanish could be another plus for later.” Ghost whipped their head toward Raf. That sounded like a great idea. It would be nice for the two silent beings at base to be able to communicate.
It became a normal routine with Ghost. After school, once the kids finished their homework, they would do their best to teach. It wasn’t perfect. But the little vessel appreciated their efforts. Thanks to them, Ghost was now familiar with the alphabet and was able to form words. But they still struggled a bit to put together sentences up to their expectations. Sometimes misspelling words that were confusing but were quickly clarified by Raf. At least their writing was legible enough for simple terms. Sadly not good enough for their goal to communicate properly with Ratchet. Still. Ghost worked hard. Though today was different. The children were occupied with their science projects and didn’t have the time to work with Ghost. So Cliffjumper was subbing in as their teacher.
Ghost sat down on the makeshift desk next to Cliffjumper’s berth. Papers were sprawled out around them messily. Guide notes, made with the help of the children. Cliffjumper watched as Ghost scribbled on their board, before they triumphantly turned it around to show him what they wrote.
Tank u for help me.
Cliffjumper chuckled and smiled at Ghost. “Of course little buddy. You’ve been learning fast. But remember, ‘thank’ starts with th-. To address me, spell ‘y-o-u,’ not the letter u. And to add -ing at the end of help.” Ghost flipped the board and wiped it clear. They used the marker to fix their sentence using his advice. The red mech felt his pride swell when he read the board once more.
Thank you for helping me Cliff.
“Anytime.” He was about to continue the lesson when his room shook from a sudden boom. Both Cliffjumper and Ghost stood up alerted, with the little vessel wielding their nail. They jumped onto Cliffjumper’s shoulder as he rushed out of the room toward the sound. When they reached the main area, it was covered in black smoke.
“Decepticons! We're under attack!” They heard Ratchet exclaim, along with his and Optimus’ hurried footsteps. The smoke cleared, revealing Bumblebee and Raf tending to his science project.
“It’s no attack Ratchet. It was my volcano.” Raf explained, gesturing to his volcano model. Cliffjumper quietly sighed in relief, while Ghost sheathed their nail. They looked around the room, noticing Jack and Miko being assisted by their respective Autobot guardians. Miko was painting multicolored spheres Bulkhead held on strings. Meanwhile Jack with the help of Arcee, was assembling a motorcycle. They knew the children were working on special projects for school, but had Ghost known they were this exciting, they would’ve volunteered to help. Though given Ratchet’s disapproving expression, not everyone was interested in these projects.
“What in the All Spark is going on here?” He demanded, causing each group to pause and stare at the medic.
“Our projects are due tomorrow.” Jack said plainly, looking at the piece of metal Arcee was holding.
“Maybe it needs one of these doohickeys?” She hesitantly suggested, gauging Jack’s reaction.
“You're a motorcycle Arcee, shouldn't you know how to build a motorcycle engine?” The boy teased, while silently hoping she would know what to do.
“You're a human Jack, can you build me a small intestine?” Arcee retorted, gaining Cliffjumper’s suppressed laughter. Or at least his attempt to hold in his laughter. In that moment, Ghost moved their head as if they rolled their eyes. They jumped down from Cliffjumper’s shoulder and studied Jack’s project.
“Well, you can't work on these projects in here. You're making a mess.” Ratchet declared, already fed up with the children for today.
“But the science fair is a big part of our grade.” Raf spoke up. He wanted to work on this with Bee and he couldn’t do that at home.
“Yeah, if Bulkhead doesn't help me finish this model of our solar system—.” Miko chimed in, but was cut off by Ratchet.
“Oh, and what does Bulkhead know of your solar system, or Bumblebee of your volcanoes, or—.”
“Arcee of our motorcycles?” Jack asked, sharing a ‘really’ look with Arcee. From what Ghost observed, Jack’s project wasn’t causing any disturbance. Neither were Raf’s or Miko’s. They turned back to the medic, hoping he would clarify what was wrong.
“Precisely. We’re not earthlings, and they're not scientists.” Hm. So Ratchet is offended the children didn’t ask him for help instead of the other Autobots. Though I doubt he would admit it.
“But the Autobots are their guardians, Ratchet. Would it hurt to learn more of Earth by helping our young friends with their schoolwork?” Ratchet’s optics widened momentarily from Optimus’ input, but quickly hid it.
“Well, maybe our young friends should try learning more about Cybertron.” Ratchet decided. He surveyed the room and finally noticed Ghost who was standing near Jack’s project.
“Ghost. I’ve finished the scans of your journal. Perhaps when you improve your writing skills, you’ll contribute properly to this matter.” The medic said coldly as he crouched down and handed the journal to Ghost.
“Teaching you Cybertronian may have been better than this.” He muttered, before the monitor blared. Ratchet quickly stood up and analyzed the alert.
“Exposed energon, and it's on the move.” He turned back to the team.
“And if we ain't moving it, guess who must be.” Bulkhead said as he gently placed Miko’s planets onto the floor.
“Decepticons.” Arcee stated. Cliffjumper narrowed his optics but said nothing. He quietly sighed, not even bothering to ask Ratchet id he could help out. He’s gotten used to being benched. But for now he’d rather keep helping his little friend. It seemed really important to them.
“Without Megatron?” The Autobots looked at Miko. Optimus’ expression softened.
“Unfortunately, Megatron's legacy will live on, as others rise to take his place. Autobots, you have projects to complete.” He turned to Ratchet. “Ratchet, I may require aid.” The medic didn’t reply right away. His attention fully on Raf, who was fixing his volcano.
“Science fair is a big part of their grade, perhaps I'm better suited to remain behind and advise.” His suggestion made Optimus pause before calling out to Bumblebee to accompany him. The yellow scout eagerly followed Optimus through the ground bridge. Meanwhile Cliffjumper and Ghost returned to his room, unknowingly leaving the others to deal with Ratchet’s micromanagement.
Cliffjumper looked down at Ghost worriedly as they frustratingly erased the words on dry erase board. They put it aside and grabbed a stack of papers to study their notes.
“There’s no need to rush little buddy. You’re still learning.” Cliffjumper grimaced as his words immediately caused Ghost to sulk. He didn’t know how to cheer up the vessel. They had been at it for while without taking a break and he could see how it was taking a toll on them. He just couldn’t grasp why Ghost was so desperate to communicate. Sure he would love to converse with them and actually hold an actual conversation. But the way they were going about it was very concerning. And Ghost knew Cliffjumper noticed their behavior. Just because the red mech didn’t voice his concern doesn’t mean they couldn’t sense it. He didn’t understand now. But he would. Ghost needed to learn quickly for his sake. They had to.
Ghost and Cliffjumper turned their heads to the door as it opened to reveal Arcee, Bulkhead, and the children. The duo just stared at the group as they all looked equally exhausted.
“Woah. What happened to you guys?” Cliffjumper asked as they filed into the room. He scooted over on his berth to allow space for Arcee to sit. While Bulkhead lifted the children and placed them onto the desk where Ghost was. The large green mech leaned against the wall for support.
“Ratchet. That’s what!” Miko pouted, stomping her foot. Ghost tilted their head as the others groaned at the mention of the grumpy medic.
“He took over our projects and isn’t letting us work on them.” Raf explained, gaining Cliffjumper’s shock expression. He looked to Arcee for confirmation as she sighed and nodded. Ghost set their writing board aside and patted Raf’s back.
“We figured since we couldn’t do our projects we’d help Ghost again. Though it looks like you guys have been busy.” Jack added as he picked up the scattered papers.
“Yeah. Ghost has been putting in a lot of effort.” Cliffjumper stated as he rubbed the back of his neck. He was kinda glad the others could witness Ghost’s behavior.
“We can definitely tell. They look restless.” Bulkhead observed, having seen Ghost’s tense body language and the previously unorganized notes. His attention is caught by Ghost tapping at the now written board.
Am not. Need to be better.
The children sat down in a circle with Ghost, now aware of whats been going on.
“It’ll be alright Ghost. We appreciate how you want to do this, but take your time.” Jack stated, handing Ghost the papers he picked up. Their grip on the papers tightened momentarily before finally calming down. The group was relieved as they watched Ghost finally relaxed. This time, Raf patted their shoulder.
“Everyone learns differently. Some methods are more effective than it can be for others. We just need to find the one that you prefer.” Raf offered Ghost a small smile. They looked at him as they processed his words. Sure the kids had varying approaches to this. Even Cliff’s was different but patient. But what other ways could there be?
“Well. Ghost has to have been taught before. They have their own language and I bet those sick sword moves they do weren’t done on their first try.” Miko paused, thinking about it. “Wait that’d be even cooler if you did it first try!” She squealed. Ghost took a moment to think about it. Their language was natural to them despite their inability to speak. They could understand other bugs and read signs.
As for their ability with a nail. They were born for that purpose. Trained to be the perfect vessel in order to protect and save the kingdom. Ghost sheepishly nodded their head. They’ve had teachers. Though from their memory, the ones that they highly respected were the Nailmasters. Come to think of it. They did learn from them fairly quickly. Wait. Ghost took out their journal and flipped to the page that had the three Nailmaster brothers. Everyone peered at the images.
“Huh. They look almost identical. But those two are like twins.” Cliffjumper said pointing at Oro and Mato. Miko noticed the similar blades in the drawing and beamed at Ghost.
“Are these the guys that taught you to fight?” Ghost nodded. Though they weren’t the ones to initially teach them how to wield a nail. They respected and appreciated the Nailmasters for teaching them their unique nail art moves. It was thanks to them that Ghost was able to enhance their skills and continue their journey. They scribbled on the board again.
Oro. Mato. Sheo.
They pointed at each drawing as the group read the names.
“They seem like really skilled warriors.” Arcee commented. Bulkhead squinted his optics at the drawing of Sheo.
“This one is holding a paintbrush?” Miko glared at Bulkhead.
“Hey painting can be fun! You should have tried it earlier with my solar system.” The green bot chuckled nervously. He believed he made the right call to have Miko handle that. No way a big bot like himself could do something so delicately. Especially for her important project.
“So little bud, what exactly did they teach you?” Cliffjumper asked. Ghost was about to erase the names off their board until they had an idea. They gave the journal to Jack and had him hold it open to display the Nailmaster brothers. Ghost then unsheathed their nail and moved away from the children; who now understood what they were gonna do. Cliffjumper, Arcee, and Bulkhead grew equally intrigued for the demonstration.
“Uh ok. Let’s see. How about Oro?” Raf asked. Without a moment to spare, Ghost readied themself. A familiar white aura surrounded them until finally they dashed forward and unleashed a large slash. Ghost repeated the move a couple times before ending it with a midair dash slash. The kids were impressed and Miko, gushing with excitement spoke up.
“Ooh ooh! Do Sheo’s!” She asked, eager to see what the fellow art enthusiast had taught them. Ghost remained stationary; the white aura pulsing, before performing the special skill. The Autobots’ optics widened at the loud echoing sound from the attack. The upward slash held tremendous power. A fitting feat for a move called great slash.
“Guess that leaves Mato.” Jack said, still carrying the journal. He had kept quiet unlike Miko and Raf, but was very impressed by Ghost. Not that he wasn’t before but watching them up close do these moves was something else for him. He watched as Ghost moved a little further away. Though the immense shock he had from Ghost’s next maneuver was immediate. The little vessel spun around continuously swinging their nail like a beyblade. Once Ghost finished, they were stunned by the children rushing toward them with praises. They were also surprised by the Autobots’ reactions. Of course they had seen Ghost’s handiwork before but they didn’t have the time to compliment them while being attacked by the Decepticons.
“That was great little bud!” Cliffjumper exclaimed with pride.
“As I’ve said before. The little guy surprises me every time.” Bulkhead chuckled, earning Miko’s nod.
“I’m sure they are very proud Ghost.” The little vessel looked up to Arcee and puffed their chest out. Jack, Raf, and Miko cheered at Ghost’s confidence.
“I think I figured it out.” Raf said, gaining everyone’s attention. “Your teachers demonstrated their moves, then proceeded to have you try them out right?” Ghost nodded. That’s how it’s been. Cliffjumper’s optics widened. It made Ghost’s behavior make more sense. They are usually able to learn right away.
“So if that’s the case. We write alongside Ghost. They can copy but keep the information.”A hum of acknowledgement filled the room as everyone pretty much agreed with Raf’s theory.
For the rest of the children’s time at the base, they wrote along with Ghost, providing an improved visual aid. It was a fun experience that included the Autobot guardians who provided suggestions on what to write. Some serious like for emergency uses. And others that caused a laughing fit between the children, Bulkhead and Cliffjumper, while Arcee hid her laughter. Meanwhile Ghost soaked in the uplifting atmosphere; completely forgetting their troubles and worries. But to Ghost, the most memorable part of that study group came from Cliffjumper’s last suggestion.
“Hey. Earlier you did a great job writing my name. I am truly honored to be the first.” The group chuckled at that comment. “But I think an important thing would be for you to write your own name.” Ghost stared at Cliffjumper, but they quickly put their focus back onto their writing board. They hadn’t even thought of attempting to do that. They were hyper-fixated on helping Cliffjumper, that they hadn’t considered learning this for themself. Ghost looked around the room and was met by the encouraging words of their friends. They erased the writing on their board and scribbled their name.
Ghost.
The next day Ghost practiced writing everyone’s names. Jack, Miko, and Raf felt extremely better once they saw Ghost write their names perfectly. The kids needed the morale boost after the projects were a bust. Meanwhile, Ratchet pretended not to sulk in the corner of the room away from everyone.
The ashen wasteland that was the Kingdom’s Edge was as barren as Mato had heard. It was a bleak landscape paved with the fallen bodies of those foolish enough to fight in that so called Colosseum. The Nailmaster was grateful he didn’t have to waste time there in his search. He knew his brother. Oro may not be as loyal to their master’s teachings like him, but he would not degrade himself to dishonor them.
It didn’t take long before Mato found the secluded hut that belonged to his brother. He truly wished to hide in the deepest corner of this desolate place. He entered the hut and was met with his brother sat slouched, faced away from him. Oro lifted his head, recognizing his steps.
“Hmph. And here I thought you would wait for me.” Mato almost smiled hearing Oro’s gruff voice again after so long. Almost.
“I’ve waited long enough. I’m here only because I’m ready to listen.” Mato watched as his brother momentarily stiffened. But as quick as he recovered, he stood up and brandished his nail.
“Then you’ve wasted your time. Leave. Now.” Mato took a small step back in shock. But he refused to leave. Not when he was so close to getting answers. Although the last thing he expected was to fight his brother. But it looks like once again; Oro would not give him a civil choice. Mato drew out his own nail just in time for a clash against Oro. The sharp clangs from their weapons echoed throughout the room as they exchanged blows. The most recent swing from Mato pushed Oro back, building distance between the two brothers.
“We don’t have to do this. All you have to do is just tell me the truth.” Mato pleaded. His plea was met with Oro glare.
“I already told you. Leave me to my solitude.” Once again, Mato stood his ground, refusing to leave. This made Oro tighten the grip on his weapon. Mato waited for Oro’s next move, but grew alarmed when he recognized the stance his brother took. Oro was hunched over and held the nail behind him. If he was gonna use his special nail art, Mato would do the same. The standoff between the brothers was tense as they readied themselves to unleash their attacks. But the imminent clash was halted by someone else entering the hut.
“ENOUGH!” The two brothers froze at the all too familiar voice. One that they had heard throughout their years of training under the nail arts. Their master, the former Great Nailsage, Sly.
“I did not teach you to raise your nail against another in rage. It seems your stubbornness has not wavered in our time apart.” The two sheathed their nails and bowed to Sly.
“M-master! I did not expect your presence here.” Mato stammered, caught off guard along with his brother. Neither of them wanted to reunite with Sly yet. At least for Mato, he wanted to wait until he honed his skills. To be worthy enough.
“I came here intending to force Oro to reconcile with you Mato. Though it appears you’ve beaten me here.” Oro winced at Sly’s words while Mato remained still. It was a great challenge to overcome his resentment toward Oro. It pained him greatly to make the journey here to the Kingdom’s Edge, where his brother lived in solitude. His patience had run thin, and he believed he deserved answers. Mato looked to Oro, whose cold demeanor remained. But Mato was no fool. He noticed how his brother shifted when he arrived. How he still won’t meet his gaze. He couldn’t understand why Oro had made him wait this long. Mato sighed as he controlled his anger. He had to compose himself. Especially with his unintentional reunion with Sly.
“I’ve come to you now. Not as your master, but as a humble merchant. And I need your help.”
“I have no doubt you have sensed the absence of that horrid infection. I had almost succumb to it had your pupil not saved me. I owe my life and well-earned geo thanks to them. And as of the recent announcement, that pupil of yours has gone missing.” Both brothers’ eyes widened at the revelation. Mato in particular was very distressed. His precious student was gone? What had happened? He assumed they were the reason the infection had disappeared. That they had successfully completed their quest. A skilled warrior such as them went missing? Perhaps the cost of ridding that infection.
“I’ve already sought out your brother Sheo. He has joined the kingdom’s search for our savior.” Sly headed toward the door.
“I thought it was right for you to know what became of your pupil. But it seems I must remind you of the first lesson I taught you both.” Sly turned his head toward them.
“Remember, you are brothers. Fight as one.” With that, Sly left the hut, leaving the two brothers to their thoughts. They stood in silence, before their gazes met. It held no malice. No resentment. No more guilt. An understanding. They walked out together, with the intention to catch up to their brother. To join the search for their pupil.