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Chapter V
So the Truth Comes Out

The leader of the Decepticons stood quietly. Not saying a word. His medic, standing idly by an examination table littered with the malled, deformed remains of a Vehicon trooper - smirking.

"H-How did this happen?" was the only thing the larger mech could muster in speaking.
The smaller, more sleek red bot shrugged, looking at the same carnage. "I haven't the slightest idea."

Hearing just those words made the larger, grey mech seeth and growl with anger. "Then why do I allow you to function if you can't shed light on something as important -and ultimately- DANGEROUS to the Decepticon cause?!"

The con, Knockout, flinched and stuttered finding that the larger mech's wrathful fist was getting a little bit close for comfort. "L-Lord Megatron, I do not know what it is exactly that caused this...but based on what I've seen and what Starscream described I have surmised a possible theory..."

The Decepticon Starscream slowly moved from his stance against a nearby wall. "Then by all means, Doctor do enlighten the rest of us. We are after all so...eager to share the knowledge."

With a mildly quite snarl to the Decepticon's second-in-command, the medic turned his glance to Megatron. "Based soley on the examination of the damaged armor in and around the effected area, I can only conclude one possible scenario..."

"Knockout, I am growing impatiant. Get straight to the point. NOW!." Megatron's voiced bellowed through the medical bay.

Timid, and even more uneasy, the medic realized the tyrant was in no mood for theatrics. "The armor on this particular vehicon was damaged literally from the inside out."

Pausing for only a moment, just to by time to call on a skematic of the deceased's frame, Knockout continued. "After examining the damaged armor on a microscopic level, I noticed several fissures and cracks in an area that should otherwise be solid. It's almost as if an energy of sorts passed directly through the metal itself. But the most fascinating thing I discovered is that some armor is almost a compleltly different composition from that which surrounds it! It's almost as if whatever kind of energy that passed through it...was litteraly trying to rewrite the atomic composition of the metal itself!"

Both Starscream and Megatron stood quietly. Recognizing this silence, Knockout groaned swinging his entire body around to the display terminal. "What I mean, is that whatever those two humans did to this vehicon, quite litteraly was changing him; from the most basical level of all living things to something we could actually see. The wound being that very thing."

Knockout shut down the terminal and faced Megatron again. "I can't tell you the exact nature of how this came to be simply because I've never seen anything like this ever happen before. Lord Megatron, if the Decepticons truly want to understand what this energy is, as well as rectify whether or not it's a real threat is if we can somehow capture the humans responsible. I have to examine them to know just what it is exactly that we're dealing with."

The room was quiet for but a moment before Knockout chuckled with a smirk. "And who knows, maybe this is something that could be used as a weapon against the Autobots..."

Those were the only words that really needed to be said in order to gain a genuine interest by the Decepticon leader. Megatron knew and respected the gravity of the situation as far as what a threat would concern, but to have a weapon against the Autobots, especially one that they could not combat. It almost sounded too good to be true. Could they finally have something worthy of bringing this war of theirs to a grand illustrious finish?

Grinning slowly, Megatron turned to meet the gaze of an unfamiliar con standing in the door way, his purple accents the only thing reflecting in the shadow of the doorway.
"Soundwave. Find those humans. Do what you must. But I want them found...alive."

----

The leader of the Autobots stood quietly. Not saying a word. As did most of his team. They all simply stood in silence; trying to comprehend the information just given to them by two strange, young boys. Brothers. Edward and Alphonse Elric.

The brothers in question sat in similar silance...just...waitng... for someone to say something. Apparently learning of an alternate reality was a bit much to take in. Then again...now that Al thought about it...he could easily understand why they'd think that. After all, just mere hours ago...that was what Ed and Al felt.

Just moments ago, Edward and Alphonse had finished telling the Autobots about their experiance in the caves as well as certain instances leading up to their current predicament. But they didn't tell them everything. While speaking to the Autobots, Al couldn't help but notice that Ed left out certain pieces of information. Important facts that would help these bots better understand just who and what they were. Speaking in truth, Al felt a bit uncomfortable not being upfront. But...had to cermise that Ed was withdrawing that information for a purpose.

Though the Autobots were told about Amestris and the way their world works...they were not told about Alchemy. At least...not directly.The Autobots did not know that the two boys in front of them, were Alchemists. State Alchemists.

They did not know about the boy's horrific past, our about what it was the were seeking here in the present. But through it all...Al remained silent.

Now that the Autobots knew some of what brought the two here, Edward must have reasoned with himeslf that the knowledge he gave was enough. Al didn't like it. He didn't think it was fair or right that Ed not give him the choice in being able to say what he thought these beings should know. But still, he remained silent.

It was then that Al realized, that as Edward spoke, the Autobot leader, Optimus Prime was watching him. Studying him. Much in a similar way as what he did when they first met in the cavern. Those eyes...it was almost like they could see right through him. It was almost like...he knew that it was hollow inside.

Coming back to the here and now, Al sat quietly. Thinkng about the way the Autobot leader was looking at him.

It was then that Optimus' voice carryed throughout the base's room. "Alphonse, is there something else you wish to tell us?"

Al's helmet snapped up. He looked around realizing that every living thing in the room, including Edward was looking at him. Al wanted to speak. He truly did. But when he noticed Ed...when he say his face, he knew what he was thinking.

'Don't tell them anything.'

Al knew. But that didn't stop him.

"There is something else...there's actually a lot more I think you should-" "AL?!"

Grabbing his collar armor suddenly, Edward was furious. "They know more than enough! They don't need to know EVERYTHING!"

Al pushed Ed's hands away, standing to his full height. "You're wrong Ed."

Looking away from the perplexed gaze of his brother, Al's eyes met Optimus's. Only to eventually return to Ed's. "Edward, these beings saved our lives. No one asked them to. They just did it. A kindness like that needs to be met with sincerety, kindness, willingness to cooperate and honesty. And that is something we have not completely committed ourselves to."

Ed remained silent. Then as moments passed...waved a dimissive hand. "Fine. Do what you want. If you want to divulge our deepest darkest secrets to beings you don't hardly know and HOPE they'll take it lightly...go ahead."

Why did he have to be like that? That's all Al could think. Ed was always so obstinant...so difficult.

Returning a gaze to the Autobots, Al spoke carefully. He was only going to have one chance at an impression. He had to make it work in their favor.

"All of what my brother told you is correct. However, he left out some very important information that I think all of you should know."

The bots remained silent.

"But first, I want to make it very clear that the only reason we're telling you this...is to gain trust. We are in a world we do not know or really understand. Already we've managed to make some enemies. But based on the actions we saw in the cave, we can only conclude that our new found enemies are also your enemies. And you know they say...the enemy of my enemy is my friend."

Al paused to see what kind of reaction he had recieved, then continued. "We can use all the allies we can get in this world. And...I want you all to know that...we trust you. And we want you all to trust us too."

Al looked at Edward who was sulking in a pout and continued. "Earlier, you asked us what Alchemy was. For us...it is a way of life. It is life. We were taaught that it is first and foremost the ancient metaphysical science and/or mystical art of manipulating and altering matter by using natural energy."

As Ed finally decided to stop sulking, he stood beside Al and added...reluctantly. "This act is more commonly known to most Alchemists as "Transmutation". Its sequence being Comprehension, Deconstruction and Reconstruction."

Al nodded, looking at the Autobots. Just happy that Ed finally decided to cooperate. "Comprehension basically entails the understanding of an inherent structure and it'sproperties of the atomic or molecular makeup of its material to be transmuted. This understanding includes the flow and balance of potential and kinetic energy that is held within the object that you want to transmute. Deconstruction is using energy to break down the physical structure of the identified material into a more malleable state so as to be easily reshaped into a new form and Reconstruction is continuing the flow of energy so we can reform the material into a new shape."

Ed groaned, "But what you have to realize is that alchemy requires at leat a basic understanding of chemistry and ancient alchemical theory..." Chuckling, Ed continued. "Not to mention a sort of natural talent towards recognizing and manipulating physical objects with energy."

Beaming, Ed grinned pointing to himself. "Alchemy requires uncommon levels of intelligence and aptitude!"

With an 'oh-brother' sigh...Al pushed Ed aside. "Unfortunetaly, not everyone is capable of studying and practicing alchemy. Those that are, are known as "Alchemists". And every alchemist knows one undeniable truth-."

Just then, Edward placed his hands together. Though, they were covered with white gloves, that didn't stop him from showing these beings just what he was capable of.

A brilliant blue glow suddenly eminated from Edward's hands. He placed them among the rails of the catwalk and in doing so, the glow became brighter. The Autobots immediatly moved back, unsure of what was actually happening. Behaving as though they were genuinly alarmed by the events beginning to unfold.

Ed delighted in this and pulled the rail from it's stance, and within moments transmuted it.

When the light faded, Ed hoisted an elequantly crafted spear above his head and beamed, his grin streatching from one ear to the other. But then, he gave it to Al and looked at the ground. His grin already long gone.

"In order to obtain or create something, something of equal value must be lost or destroyed."

Edward, with all seriousness, looked to the Autobots...the room growing slightly quieter.
They were in awe.

How?

How could a human do something like...that?

But they weren't finished.

Al sighed quietly. "There's more..."

"Inanimate objects aren't the only thing alchemists can transmute."

Just then, Edward slowly removed his gloves. He them ripped his jacket away...revealing a silver metal arm.

Most of the Autobots...even Optimus were stunned. They couldn't hardly believe their optics.

Slowly, and cautiously, Optimus approched. "How did you do this?"

His voice was quiet but precise.

For a moment, Ed and Al were very quiet. They couldn't even bring themselves to look at the Autobot leader...or any of the Autobots.

They had only just met these beings a few short hours ago, and already they want them to divulge the deepest darkest secrets of their past?

"Ed..."

Edward looked up, his golden eyes meeting Alphonse's gaze.

"We have to tell them the truth. We have to be honest with them, or they'll never be honest with us."

At that moment, Ed understood. He understood exactly what Al was thinking. He didn't like it. But he knew it was the only way to insure that they could obtain an ally...one that could potentially get them home.

Just then, Alphonse slowly raised his hands but stopped when they were adjacent to his chest. "Edward isn't the only one." Al then raised his hands completely...and grasped his helmet, taking it away from the rest of the armor.

All the Autobots this time, with the exception of the commander jumped...Smokescreen even managed a startled squeak; an action that elicited some not-so-flattering looks from the other Autobots. Still, Smokescreen ignored them an cried out...th-there's no fleshy inside!!!"

He was right. The armor was empty.

"Please don't be alarmed..." the headless armor echoed. "I may not be completely human anymore...but I still have my soul."

Al then pointed to his neck, encouraging the Autobots...mainly Optimus and Ratchet -who, unlike the others didn't seem bothered- to investigate. "Because of this blood seal...my soul isn't lost. Instead it stays attached to this armor."

Optimus watched Al...fasinated as he put his helmet back on. He them watched Ed was he weiled the spear over his shoulder.

Al spoke softly. "We've made mistakes. Horrible ones...and we've payed the price. That is why we HAVE to get back to Amestris. It's why we have to go back home."

Al clenched his fist...hard. "We have to set things right."

Looking up at Optimus, Al pleaded...so much so Optimus could hear it in his voice. "Please. Don't ask us to relive the horrors that we've faced. Just know...we've faced some."

Al looked around the room, his gaze passing from one thing to the next, but not falling on Optimus. "We know we have no right to ask this of you or your team, Commander...but will you please help us? Help us make our world what it once was. Please help us to help ourselves be what we once were!"

There was another pause of silence for quite some time.

Optimus did not say a word. Instead he looked to his Autobots. One by one he examined their faces...and they were all the same.

It was almost as if they were saying. 'We're with you Optimus. No matter what you choose to do - we're with you.'

Looking back at Alphonse and Edward, Optimus exchanged a small but genuine smile and nod. This Edward character seemed diffuicult...but nonetheless, the two brothers seemed genuine. Especially young Alphonse.

With a sigh, Optimus spoke. "You both have shown great courage in revealing to us what you know and are capable of. Such an act of trust will not go unseen, and as such, since this is not where you truly belong anyway, it is only fitting that we assist you in any way we can."

Optimus's voice softened. "Besides, we vowed to protect all humans. And that is an oath we will not easily break."

After Optimus said that, the two boys seemed almost ecstatic.

But all the was going through Optimus' head was - "This is not going to be easy."

Description
Chapter V
So the Truth Comes Out

The leader of the Decepticons stood quietly. Not saying a word. His medic, standing idly by an examination table littered with the malled, deformed remains of a Vehicon trooper - smirking.

"H-How did this happen?" was the only thing the larger mech could muster in speaking.
The smaller, more sleek red bot shrugged, looking at the same carnage. "I haven't the slightest idea."

Hearing just those words made the larger, grey mech seeth and growl with anger. "Then why do I allow you to function if you can't shed light on something as important -and ultimately- DANGEROUS to the Decepticon cause?!"

The con, Knockout, flinched and stuttered finding that the larger mech's wrathful fist was getting a little bit close for comfort. "L-Lord Megatron, I do not know what it is exactly that caused this...but based on what I've seen and what Starscream described I have surmised a possible theory..."

The Decepticon Starscream slowly moved from his stance against a nearby wall. "Then by all means, Doctor do enlighten the rest of us. We are after all so...eager to share the knowledge."

With a mildly quite snarl to the Decepticon's second-in-command, the medic turned his glance to Megatron. "Based soley on the examination of the damaged armor in and around the effected area, I can only conclude one possible scenario..."

"Knockout, I am growing impatiant. Get straight to the point. NOW!." Megatron's voiced bellowed through the medical bay.

Timid, and even more uneasy, the medic realized the tyrant was in no mood for theatrics. "The armor on this particular vehicon was damaged literally from the inside out."

Pausing for only a moment, just to by time to call on a skematic of the deceased's frame, Knockout continued. "After examining the damaged armor on a microscopic level, I noticed several fissures and cracks in an area that should otherwise be solid. It's almost as if an energy of sorts passed directly through the metal itself. But the most fascinating thing I discovered is that some armor is almost a compleltly different composition from that which surrounds it! It's almost as if whatever kind of energy that passed through it...was litteraly trying to rewrite the atomic composition of the metal itself!"

Both Starscream and Megatron stood quietly. Recognizing this silence, Knockout groaned swinging his entire body around to the display terminal. "What I mean, is that whatever those two humans did to this vehicon, quite litteraly was changing him; from the most basical level of all living things to something we could actually see. The wound being that very thing."

Knockout shut down the terminal and faced Megatron again. "I can't tell you the exact nature of how this came to be simply because I've never seen anything like this ever happen before. Lord Megatron, if the Decepticons truly want to understand what this energy is, as well as rectify whether or not it's a real threat is if we can somehow capture the humans responsible. I have to examine them to know just what it is exactly that we're dealing with."

The room was quiet for but a moment before Knockout chuckled with a smirk. "And who knows, maybe this is something that could be used as a weapon against the Autobots..."

Those were the only words that really needed to be said in order to gain a genuine interest by the Decepticon leader. Megatron knew and respected the gravity of the situation as far as what a threat would concern, but to have a weapon against the Autobots, especially one that they could not combat. It almost sounded too good to be true. Could they finally have something worthy of bringing this war of theirs to a grand illustrious finish?

Grinning slowly, Megatron turned to meet the gaze of an unfamiliar con standing in the door way, his purple accents the only thing reflecting in the shadow of the doorway.
"Soundwave. Find those humans. Do what you must. But I want them found...alive."

----

The leader of the Autobots stood quietly. Not saying a word. As did most of his team. They all simply stood in silence; trying to comprehend the information just given to them by two strange, young boys. Brothers. Edward and Alphonse Elric.

The brothers in question sat in similar silance...just...waitng... for someone to say something. Apparently learning of an alternate reality was a bit much to take in. Then again...now that Al thought about it...he could easily understand why they'd think that. After all, just mere hours ago...that was what Ed and Al felt.

Just moments ago, Edward and Alphonse had finished telling the Autobots about their experiance in the caves as well as certain instances leading up to their current predicament. But they didn't tell them everything. While speaking to the Autobots, Al couldn't help but notice that Ed left out certain pieces of information. Important facts that would help these bots better understand just who and what they were. Speaking in truth, Al felt a bit uncomfortable not being upfront. But...had to cermise that Ed was withdrawing that information for a purpose.

Though the Autobots were told about Amestris and the way their world works...they were not told about Alchemy. At least...not directly.The Autobots did not know that the two boys in front of them, were Alchemists. State Alchemists.

They did not know about the boy's horrific past, our about what it was the were seeking here in the present. But through it all...Al remained silent.

Now that the Autobots knew some of what brought the two here, Edward must have reasoned with himeslf that the knowledge he gave was enough. Al didn't like it. He didn't think it was fair or right that Ed not give him the choice in being able to say what he thought these beings should know. But still, he remained silent.

It was then that Al realized, that as Edward spoke, the Autobot leader, Optimus Prime was watching him. Studying him. Much in a similar way as what he did when they first met in the cavern. Those eyes...it was almost like they could see right through him. It was almost like...he knew that it was hollow inside.

Coming back to the here and now, Al sat quietly. Thinkng about the way the Autobot leader was looking at him.

It was then that Optimus' voice carryed throughout the base's room. "Alphonse, is there something else you wish to tell us?"

Al's helmet snapped up. He looked around realizing that every living thing in the room, including Edward was looking at him. Al wanted to speak. He truly did. But when he noticed Ed...when he say his face, he knew what he was thinking.

'Don't tell them anything.'

Al knew. But that didn't stop him.

"There is something else...there's actually a lot more I think you should-" "AL?!"

Grabbing his collar armor suddenly, Edward was furious. "They know more than enough! They don't need to know EVERYTHING!"

Al pushed Ed's hands away, standing to his full height. "You're wrong Ed."

Looking away from the perplexed gaze of his brother, Al's eyes met Optimus's. Only to eventually return to Ed's. "Edward, these beings saved our lives. No one asked them to. They just did it. A kindness like that needs to be met with sincerety, kindness, willingness to cooperate and honesty. And that is something we have not completely committed ourselves to."

Ed remained silent. Then as moments passed...waved a dimissive hand. "Fine. Do what you want. If you want to divulge our deepest darkest secrets to beings you don't hardly know and HOPE they'll take it lightly...go ahead."

Why did he have to be like that? That's all Al could think. Ed was always so obstinant...so difficult.

Returning a gaze to the Autobots, Al spoke carefully. He was only going to have one chance at an impression. He had to make it work in their favor.

"All of what my brother told you is correct. However, he left out some very important information that I think all of you should know."

The bots remained silent.

"But first, I want to make it very clear that the only reason we're telling you this...is to gain trust. We are in a world we do not know or really understand. Already we've managed to make some enemies. But based on the actions we saw in the cave, we can only conclude that our new found enemies are also your enemies. And you know they say...the enemy of my enemy is my friend."

Al paused to see what kind of reaction he had recieved, then continued. "We can use all the allies we can get in this world. And...I want you all to know that...we trust you. And we want you all to trust us too."

Al looked at Edward who was sulking in a pout and continued. "Earlier, you asked us what Alchemy was. For us...it is a way of life. It is life. We were taaught that it is first and foremost the ancient metaphysical science and/or mystical art of manipulating and altering matter by using natural energy."

As Ed finally decided to stop sulking, he stood beside Al and added...reluctantly. "This act is more commonly known to most Alchemists as "Transmutation". Its sequence being Comprehension, Deconstruction and Reconstruction."

Al nodded, looking at the Autobots. Just happy that Ed finally decided to cooperate. "Comprehension basically entails the understanding of an inherent structure and it'sproperties of the atomic or molecular makeup of its material to be transmuted. This understanding includes the flow and balance of potential and kinetic energy that is held within the object that you want to transmute. Deconstruction is using energy to break down the physical structure of the identified material into a more malleable state so as to be easily reshaped into a new form and Reconstruction is continuing the flow of energy so we can reform the material into a new shape."

Ed groaned, "But what you have to realize is that alchemy requires at leat a basic understanding of chemistry and ancient alchemical theory..." Chuckling, Ed continued. "Not to mention a sort of natural talent towards recognizing and manipulating physical objects with energy."

Beaming, Ed grinned pointing to himself. "Alchemy requires uncommon levels of intelligence and aptitude!"

With an 'oh-brother' sigh...Al pushed Ed aside. "Unfortunetaly, not everyone is capable of studying and practicing alchemy. Those that are, are known as "Alchemists". And every alchemist knows one undeniable truth-."

Just then, Edward placed his hands together. Though, they were covered with white gloves, that didn't stop him from showing these beings just what he was capable of.

A brilliant blue glow suddenly eminated from Edward's hands. He placed them among the rails of the catwalk and in doing so, the glow became brighter. The Autobots immediatly moved back, unsure of what was actually happening. Behaving as though they were genuinly alarmed by the events beginning to unfold.

Ed delighted in this and pulled the rail from it's stance, and within moments transmuted it.

When the light faded, Ed hoisted an elequantly crafted spear above his head and beamed, his grin streatching from one ear to the other. But then, he gave it to Al and looked at the ground. His grin already long gone.

"In order to obtain or create something, something of equal value must be lost or destroyed."

Edward, with all seriousness, looked to the Autobots...the room growing slightly quieter.
They were in awe.

How?

How could a human do something like...that?

But they weren't finished.

Al sighed quietly. "There's more..."

"Inanimate objects aren't the only thing alchemists can transmute."

Just then, Edward slowly removed his gloves. He them ripped his jacket away...revealing a silver metal arm.

Most of the Autobots...even Optimus were stunned. They couldn't hardly believe their optics.

Slowly, and cautiously, Optimus approched. "How did you do this?"

His voice was quiet but precise.

For a moment, Ed and Al were very quiet. They couldn't even bring themselves to look at the Autobot leader...or any of the Autobots.

They had only just met these beings a few short hours ago, and already they want them to divulge the deepest darkest secrets of their past?

"Ed..."

Edward looked up, his golden eyes meeting Alphonse's gaze.

"We have to tell them the truth. We have to be honest with them, or they'll never be honest with us."

At that moment, Ed understood. He understood exactly what Al was thinking. He didn't like it. But he knew it was the only way to insure that they could obtain an ally...one that could potentially get them home.

Just then, Alphonse slowly raised his hands but stopped when they were adjacent to his chest. "Edward isn't the only one." Al then raised his hands completely...and grasped his helmet, taking it away from the rest of the armor.

All the Autobots this time, with the exception of the commander jumped...Smokescreen even managed a startled squeak; an action that elicited some not-so-flattering looks from the other Autobots. Still, Smokescreen ignored them an cried out...th-there's no fleshy inside!!!"

He was right. The armor was empty.

"Please don't be alarmed..." the headless armor echoed. "I may not be completely human anymore...but I still have my soul."

Al then pointed to his neck, encouraging the Autobots...mainly Optimus and Ratchet -who, unlike the others didn't seem bothered- to investigate. "Because of this blood seal...my soul isn't lost. Instead it stays attached to this armor."

Optimus watched Al...fasinated as he put his helmet back on. He them watched Ed was he weiled the spear over his shoulder.

Al spoke softly. "We've made mistakes. Horrible ones...and we've payed the price. That is why we HAVE to get back to Amestris. It's why we have to go back home."

Al clenched his fist...hard. "We have to set things right."

Looking up at Optimus, Al pleaded...so much so Optimus could hear it in his voice. "Please. Don't ask us to relive the horrors that we've faced. Just know...we've faced some."

Al looked around the room, his gaze passing from one thing to the next, but not falling on Optimus. "We know we have no right to ask this of you or your team, Commander...but will you please help us? Help us make our world what it once was. Please help us to help ourselves be what we once were!"

There was another pause of silence for quite some time.

Optimus did not say a word. Instead he looked to his Autobots. One by one he examined their faces...and they were all the same.

It was almost as if they were saying. 'We're with you Optimus. No matter what you choose to do - we're with you.'

Looking back at Alphonse and Edward, Optimus exchanged a small but genuine smile and nod. This Edward character seemed diffuicult...but nonetheless, the two brothers seemed genuine. Especially young Alphonse.

With a sigh, Optimus spoke. "You both have shown great courage in revealing to us what you know and are capable of. Such an act of trust will not go unseen, and as such, since this is not where you truly belong anyway, it is only fitting that we assist you in any way we can."

Optimus's voice softened. "Besides, we vowed to protect all humans. And that is an oath we will not easily break."

After Optimus said that, the two boys seemed almost ecstatic.

But all the was going through Optimus' head was - "This is not going to be easy."