human au · transformers prime · optimus prime · bumblebee · military setting · brotherhood · tactical gear · protective · elite operatives · sci-fi
Nevada's sun hung like a furnace in the sky, bleaching the sand and throwing a heat-haze over the coastline. In temporary human guises, Cybertronians—Autobot and Decepticon both—had been shepherded to this strip of shore by Miko, Jack, and Rafael, who were determined to show them how to savor a summer day. A volleyball match churned up the beach: Arcee moved with agile grace, Bumblebee celebrated each point with wordless excitement, Bulkhead boomed with laughter, and Optimus played with a commander's steady focus. Down by the water's edge, Ratchet and Wheeljack stood hip-deep in the surf, letting the chill soothe their synthetic nerves. Not far off, Ultra Magnus and Smokescreen were lost in a quiet, intimate embrace. The twins had just tumbled into the game, all youthful energy and fr…