Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye

Chapter 3: Duty Calls

As their conversation continued, the training session between Orion Pax and Ariel intensified. Sentinel Minor couldn't help but admire his brother's determination as he sparred with Ariel, each movement purposeful and focused.

Dion nodded in agreement, his expression reflecting a mix of admiration and understanding. "Orion's got a strong spirit," he remarked. "He's not one to back down from a challenge." Sentinel nodded, a sense of pride swelling within him as he watched Orion's progress. "Yeah, that's true," he admitted, a hint of admiration in his voice. "He's always had a way of surprising us." Their conversation turned to lighter topics as they reminisced about past adventures and shared experiences. Despite the challenges they faced, there was a sense of camaraderie between them, a bond forged through years of friendship and shared struggles.

As the training session drew to a close, Orion and Ariel exchanged nods of mutual respect before parting ways. Sentinel couldn't help but feel a surge of pride at his brother's determination, knowing that Orion was well on his way to becoming a skilled fighter in his own right. With a sense of reassurance, Sentinel turned to Dion, a grateful smile on his face. "Thanks for being here, Dion," he said, his voice filled with gratitude. "It means a lot to have your support." Dion returned the smile, a sense of camaraderie evident in his expression. "Anytime, Sentinel," he replied, his tone warm. "We're in this together, after all." With that, the two friends turned to leave the training room, their bond stronger than ever as they faced whatever challenges lay ahead. As Kup entered the training room, his gaze fell upon Orion Pax and Ariel engaged in combat practice. The elderly Autobot sergeant raised an optic ridge in surprise, his expression one of curiosity mixed with a hint of skepticism.

"Well, well, what have we got here?" Kup mused, his gruff voice cutting through the air. "I wasn't expecting to see a new face around the Academy." Sentinel Minor stepped forward, a sense of pride evident in his posture as he spoke. "This is my younger brother, Orion Pax," he explained, gesturing towards Orion with a nod. "I brought him along with me today. Thought it'd be good for him to get out of the house, you know?"

Kup's optics narrowed slightly as he regarded Orion, his gaze assessing. "Hmph, not a bad idea," he grunted, nodding in approval. "Can't have young bots cooped up indoors all day. Gotta get out there and experience the world." Orion offered a hesitant smile, feeling a bit self-conscious under Kup's scrutinizing gaze. "It's nice to meet you, sir," he said respectfully, his voice tinged with nervousness. Kup nodded in acknowledgment, his expression softening slightly. "Likewise, kid," he replied gruffly. "Just remember, the Academy's no place for slacking off. If you're gonna be here, you gotta be ready to put in the work."

Orion nodded, his determination shining through despite his nerves. "I understand, sir," he said earnestly, his gaze meeting Kup's with determination. With a grunt of approval, Kup turned to leave the training room, his presence a reminder of the discipline and dedication expected of all Autobot cadets. As the door slid shut behind him, Orion returned his focus to the training session, a newfound sense of determination burning within him. He was ready to prove himself, both to Kup and to himself, as he continued his journey at the Autobot Academy.

As the group gathered in the training room, the conversation turned to Orion Pax's potential future as an Autobot cadet. Bulkhead, Wheeljack, Jazz, and Prowl joined Sentinel Minor, Kup, Orion Pax, and Ariel, their voices echoing in the spacious chamber.

"Hey, Orion," Bulkhead rumbled, his tone friendly yet earnest. "We've been talking, and we think you've got some serious potential. Ever thought about training here at the Academy to become an Autobot?" Orion Pax's optics widened in surprise at the suggestion, his thoughts racing. The idea of leaving his job at the Iacon Hall of Records and embarking on a new path as an Autobot cadet was both thrilling and daunting.