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A Love Out of Reach
TFG1 OPxJ
Feelings for the Gamma

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Optimus sighed with relief once the media mechs had finally gone after he answered all of his questions. For his first time as a Prime talking to the media it went quite well. Even Ultra Magnus didn't complain about it and that felt like he had done something right in his brother's opinion. Now he had to prepare to welcome the senators from the other cities, prepare a welcoming speech, plan a meeting with them when the time came to discuss the change in laws but before all that he had to get ready for the function tomorrow. It sounded easy but it was a lot of work and Ultra Magnus was always reminding him. Thankfully he had an aid who helped plan and inform him of what was happening. As he rested in his quarters to escape the ever watching optics of his brother his aid began to read back the welcoming speech that Optimus roughly wrote not too long ago. She was a perky Beta mech who worked under Elita-1 but Optimus borrowed her since his real aid was taking care of Jazz.

Speaking of Jazz Optimus began to wonder how he was doing. Prowl had told him he was taking him into the Beta sector of the city to purchase a harmonia-stella of his own. Prowl had also voiced his concerns about the young Gamma. He told Optimus that half the time Jazz seemed to thinking about something and he looked troubled by it. He also wasn't acting like himself and Optimus was convinced that it was because Ultra Magnus scared him with his threats. The Prime sighed as he began to wonder if Jazz was indeed happy up here. He had lived down in the slums his whole life and wasn't used to the life up here. The Alpha's hated him, the Superior's despised him and all of them just wanted to see him kicked back into the slums. Was it right to have Jazz live in a place where he was hated by many?

Another thing that worried him was what the visitors would think of him. The Sim Fur Senator's wouldn't mind him he was sure about that but Lord Prixis from Kaon was a walking cloud of storming hatred. He was an Omega Superior and he acted as if he were the Prime himself. He hated Optimus and his brother for he made that quite clear in a media gathering when he told the public that having an immature young mech acting as Prime was big mistake and that Ultra Magnus was a Sparkless mech who didn't give a dam about anyone but himself. He had earned himself the nickname, the Molten Executor for he was the one who enforced the death penalty, had the smelting pits built and it was rumoured that he executed his own mate after she cheated on him or something. He would murder Jazz if he had the chance. Optimus was hoping to make peace with him tonight.

He then began to wonder how Jazz was feeling right now. He remembered when he first met him he was full of life but now he was acting like a frightened Sparkling who tried to avoid any Alpha who crossed his path. Deep down he wanted to see the young Gamma smirk like he did back down in the slums. He wanted to see him be himself and act like he didn't give a dam about anyone or anything. He wanted to see that Jazz was truly happy. He just wanted him to smile like he meant it. He looked a whole lot better when he was smiling...he even looked quite cute when he smiled. He couldn't deny that Jazz was indeed cute...and very appealing to the optics...he wasn't like all the sobby Alpha's and the almighty Superior's. Sure he was loud but that was another thing Optimus like about him. He just hoped that he would be alright at the function.

'Well sir it looks like your speech is A-OK! I pretty sure it will impress the senetors from the other cities.'

His temporary Aid had finished the speech but Optimus didn't hear the whole thing as his mind began to wander again. The young femme sighed and stepped forward bonking Optimus on the head with her data pad. Even though she was just a mere Beta and Optimus was the Prime he didn't scare her. In fact she knew Optimus since she was a sparkling and she saw him as a fatherly like figure. She wasn't even scared of Ultra Magnus and Elita-1 was rather impressed with that.

'Elita warned me you had a habit of day dreaming! Please Optimus Prime sir you have to pay attention!' she pouted

Optimus blinked after the bonk on the head and looked up at the pouting femme.

'Forgive me Moonracer my mind was indeed somewhere else.'

The young femme sighed and placed her hands on her hips.

'Now, now Optimus Prime sir you have to pay attention or you'll look like an idiot in front of the visitors!'

The Prime nodded and took the data pad from her to give it a quick read over himself. At that moment there was a knock on the door and in entered Ratchet with his tool bag. He gave Moonracer a playful wink and walked over to Optimus placing his kit down on the table.

'Time for a check up!'

That was young Moonracer's cue to leave. Waving farewell to Optimus and avoiding Ratchet so he wouldn't spank her aft again she left the room to finish up the rest of her work. The Medic chuckled as the young femme left and was rather hoping to give her a quick spank but decided against it. Once they were alone he walked over to Optimus with his tool kit.

'That time already? Primus my memory circuits must be acting up,' sighed Optimus as he sat up.

'That's what I'm paid to prevent. Besides your memory circuits are fine you're just working too hard as usal.'

Optimus shrugged as he relaxed into Ratchet's care. The medic carefully opened a slot on his helm and began to gently probe and gather data with his tools. With Optimus he had to take special care when checking his systems and hardware for a very good reason. It was the only thing that Ultra Magnus trusted him to do when it came to his brother's health since Ratchet knew how to handle him. As the medic checked his readings he frowned with what he saw.

'Well you are stressed like you normally are...but there's something else.'

That made the Prime look up a little concerned but was surprised to see Ratchet was now smirking at him.

'If I'm right, which I'm normally am, you are showing stress spikes that indicate that you are worried. I doubt it's the little campaign or the senator's visit since you're pretty confident about these things...so I'm guessing you're worried about that cute little Gamma.'

He wasn't known as the best Medic in Iacon for no reason. Ratchet could tell what was on any ones mind just by looking at their CPU readings and he always got it right first time. Optimus just sat there looking at Ratchet unable to hide it. He was indeed worried about Jazz and the medic was able to point that out to him just by looking at his stress levels. Ratchet just sat there smirking.

'Awww you are worried about him aren't you? How cute. I didn't think he was your type.'

'What are you implying?' snapped Optimus, embarrassed that he was blushing a little.

Ratchet just laughed and sat on a nearby chair with his arms folded.

'Oh stop it Optimus. I've seen the way you act around him and it's very different to how you act around me and your other friends. I may act like a sex craving pervert sometimes but even I know when someone has deep feelings for someone else.'

Optimus suddenly felt a little uncomfortable and his Spark seemed to be pulsing rather fast. What did he mean he acted different around Jazz? Didn't he treat him like he treated his other friends? When he first saw the Gamma world he had wanted to help them and Jazz was the first one he met. He kept a promise he made with him because he believed it was the right thing to do and he wanted him and the rest of his kind by showing him to the rest of the world, to prove that that Gamma's weren't foul creatures. He brought him up here as a guest and as any friend would was concerned with his health and care. He treated him like any other friend...didn't he? Ratchet just sat there smirking at him.

'Come on admit it already. He is a cute little mech ain't he?'

That comment alone made Optimus blush again when he found himself picturing Jazz smiling at him. However he turned his head away and grumbled.

'I'll...I'll admit that he is...attractive...but he is my friend, nothing more!'

Ratchet sighed and sat up.

'You know Optimus I can spot a liar a mega-mile off and you are in lying city.'

'I just told you that I did indeed think he was attractive!'

'I asked you if you thought he was cute. I never used the word attractive. So he's your type?'

Optimus felt his body heat up again and frowned angrily as Ratchet continued to put him in the spotlight. How did Ratchet manage to drag him into this conversation? He had quite a glossa and he knew how to use it.

'Ratchet he is my friend and nothing more! I treat him as I would any friend and I am merely concerned for his health! He is a Gamma in a higher class world so to everyone up here he is a pest and my aim is to make them see he isn't one! So would you please cease with these silly accusations!'

The medic shrugged and sighed deeply. Getting back up he continued to probe and check the Prime's system.

'Ok fine have it your way. Anyway why are you so defensive about it? You may be the Prime and all but you wouldn't care who you'd take as a mate and you wouldn't care what anyone else would think. Is it because of what your brother might say...or is it because you're still not over-...'

Optimus suddenly shot Ratchet a very cold and dark glare as if to say don't you dare go any further. Ratchet was not used to seeing Optimus like this so it was no surprise that he jumped back and ceased talking. He didn't mean to bring that topic up. Ultra Magnus had warned him countless times to keep it to himself and Optimus never spoke about it with anyone...not even his own brother or his creator. In fact he never talked about it with anyone. It made Ratchet worry sometimes. Optimus always acted optimistic and cheerful around everyone but he could see that the Prime was indeed trying to keep all those painful emotions hidden. Optimus may be concerned for Jazz's health but he was more concerned with his health. If he continued to bottle up these feelings who knew what could happen.

Time passed and Ratchet had finished his check up with the Prime. He was doing OK but recommended that Optimus should have a few periods of rest during each day until his stress levels were stable. A Prime was always stressed with work so it was going to take a while. Optimus had forgotten about the topic that Ratchet had tried to bring up and thanked him, promising he would do as he says. With the medic gone to carry out the rest of his daily check ups with other mechs. Checking his schedule the Prime discovered he had some free time before Prowl returned to take over Moonracer's duty as his aid. Since there was no big rush he decided to take a small stroll before returning to work. He wanted to clear his mind of a few things an taking a walk always helped solved that.

He used to take leisurely walks through the crystal gardens and the city below before he became Prime but now he couldn't. The only places he could go where the gardens up here in the towers where snobby Alpha's walked around bragging about how great they were. It wasn't as relaxing as he had hoped it would be but it was the closest thing to it. The gardens up here were indeed beautiful but the atmosphere didn't feel at all pleasant. When mechs saw him they would try and get his attention or even try to join him on his walk. They would try and stop him just to share small talk but they didn't care at all about what they talked about with Optimus. All they cared about was being seen with him and bragging about it to their friends later. To them Optimus Prime was nothing more than a tool to gain popularity. It was things like these that made Optimus feel a little lonely over time. At first he did enjoy talking with other mechs who approached him but as time passed he was finally able to see why they came to him. He saw no interest in their optics, he heard no love in their voices. All they cared about was being seen with him.

Even though he was surrounded by so many mechs he still felt so very lonely inside. It was a strange feeling but it was the only way he could describe it. None of them wanted to understand him or get to know him better. He did have friends like Prowl, Ratchet and Mirage but their work and their lives made them almost distant to him. They only came to him nowadays when it was about work or other things. In the past they came to him as a friend wanting to spend time with him and nothing more but now...everything was so different. Everything had changed once it was announced he was to be the next Prime. Was this the price of becoming a Prime? Loosing your friends? To be all alone with no one there even though they were so close by? When he was young he predicted that he was doomed for a lonely life and had tried to find someone to be with to prevent that...that ended in a tragedy and since then he found that he was unknowingly distancing himself from mechs who tried to approach him...even his friends...even his own brother.

His walk had taken him past a window that belonged to the room that Jazz was staying in. Although he wasn't the type to just take a peek in without him knowing about it he couldn't help but do so. He wasn't expecting Jazz to be in since Prowl had taken him to the Beta market. However as he got closer he heard a strange noise and his curiosity grew. Peering in and making sure he wasn't seen he found himself looking at they young Gamma who was sitting on his berth playing around with a Harmonia-stella. He plucked at the strings of light as he tried to get the music to sound right and every now then he lookied at the holo pad in front of him that had the basic instructions of how to play one. He winced when the notes did sound right, cursed when he messed up a tune and grinned when he made a small tune. He did look like he was enjoying himself. Not a care in the world. He didn't seem at all worried about the function tomorrow night. All he cared about was making music.

Optimus watched a little while longer before leaving him alone. It made him happy to see Jazz enjoying himself. At least he wasn't suffering like the Alpha's wanted him to suffer. To be honest when Optimus first met Jazz he grew a little envious of him. Even though he lived a pit of a place he had the freedom to do whatever he wanted to do. And even though he didn't know who Optimus was at the time he didn't mind at all to be with him and he didn't seem to care that he was walking around with a mech of a higher rank. Maybe that was the reason Optimus enjoyed be around him and why he wanted to thank him in a generous way. Still...he couldn't deny that seeing Jazz smile made him feel warm and happy deep down.

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The night of the function had arrived and Jazz was trying his best not to show how nervous he was. He had been playing the Harmonia-Stella since yesterday to try and calm his nerves whilst Prowl went over with him about how to address the mechs at the function. At first he was looking forward to the function but when Prowl informed him that he wasn't going he suddenly felt both upset and scared.

'Why ain't ya coming?' asked Jazz as he packed away his Harmonia-Stella.

'Because I am a Beta Enforcer Captain. That function is for a selected Alpha's, Superior's and Omega Superior's only. You are the exception since you're the guest of the Prime.'

Upon hearing that small bit of information made Jazz even more nervous than before. He was going to be the only low class mech in there? He was going to stick out big time. Prowl did say that Mirage was going to be there to watch him in his place but that still made Jazz worry. It wasn't because he doubted Mirage it was because that over the small amounto of time he had been up here he had thought of Prowl as a guardian type person. He was going to beg him to come but Prowl suddenly announced that during the function he was going to go on a date...with a certain merchant.

So Jazz kept quiet and decided to be brave. As the day darkened and the city lights grew brighter he began to prepare himself for the function. He applied the wax that Optimus had given to him and tried to look presentable. He still looked like a Gamma but at least he looked like a clean one. When the time had finally arrived he sat in his room waiting for an escort. Prowl had informed him that it would be Mirage before wishing him the best and leaving him. As the young Gamma waited he went over what he had to do and how to act in front of the higher ups. Bow and say 'I'm and honored to meet you sir/madam' and not say anything unless spoken to. If asked questions answer politely and to the best of your abilities. When Optimus Prime and the Senators from the other cities enter you bow with everyone else and wait until Optimus summons you to join them. The Senators from Sim Fur will be pleasant but be wary about the Senator from Kaon, Senator Prixus. If given the chance he will humiliate you in the worst way possible.

Jazz had heard stories about this Kaon Senator. he was cruel and showed no mercy to his victims. He enforced the death penalty and Jazz had heard rumours that he executed his own mate out of anger. He had never seen him before even though Jazz was originally from Kaon but he had heard he looked quite menacing yet deviously handsome. However time had caught up with him but they still say he looked like a charmer if it weren't for his vile attitude. He had also recently heard that this Kaon Senator hated both Optimus and Ultra Magnus with undying passion. He didn't know why but it had something to do with politics and such. Jazz decided not to venture there.

As he went over in his head how to act and behave there was a knock at the door. Looking up he saw Mirage entering and his armour looked shiner than normal. Since this was an important function he too had to look well groomed. That made the young Gamma realize that everyone else at the function was going to look cleaner than normal and that meant he was going to stick out big time. Mirage walked over to him and grinned.

'My don't you look pretty. I have to say I am a little envious.'

'Ya just saying to calm my nerves ain't ya?'

Mirage shrugged and pulled him to his feet.

'Come on hot stuff let's get to it...and whilst we walk you can tell me why Prowl just buffed up his armour and took off without telling anyone.'

As they walked to the great hall where the function was taking place Jazz explained to Mirage that whilst they were out looking for a Harmonia-Stella they met a chatty merchant named Bluestreak who seemed to have captured Prowl's interest. His guess was that he must of asked him out on a date whilst Jazz wandered off and upon hearing this Mirage suddenly became quite giddy.

'Ooh I knew he would find someone someday! What's this Bluestreak like?'

'Well...he looks a little like Prowl but cuter and he never stops talking. He is a nice mech though I could tell.'

'I hope I get to meet him someday. Now that Prowl is set up I can play cupid with someone else!'

Mirage suddenly looked at Jazz and grinned.

'I bet that I can find you someone at this function!'

'Please...in case you forgot this party is full of higher ups and I'm the only low class mech in there!'

'I can still try...oh by the way there's a rumour that Alpha Trion is going to show up since he stated not too long ago that he was returning to Iacon. If it's announced that he's about to enter the great hall than you have to bow again OK?'

Jazz appeared confused.

'Alpha Trion?'

'He's Optimus Prime's and Ultra Magnus's creator. He's also a member of the high council and the science and technology guild. He's highly respected so be careful if you end up near him.'

That bit of information surprised Jazz. Optimus Prime's own creator was coming? He began to wonder what he was like. As they drew nearer to the great hall Jazz could hear hundreds of mechs chatting and soft music playing. His nerves began to kick in and he almost stopped in his tracks but Mirage took a tight grip of his hand and smiled.

'Relax...even though you are the guest of honer they won't even notice you come in.'

Hopefully that was true so Jazz bulked up and continued to walk. Two guards stood either side of the entrance into the great hall. The looked at Mirage with respect but when they looked at Jazz it was nothing but disgust. They still allowed him entrance, their gaze making Jazz even more nervous. Inside the great hall Jazz couldn't help but awe in wonder. Giant crystal chandeliers floated in mid air and the walls were decorated with gems and patterns. The hall was filled with hundreds of higher class mechs and femmes, all of the looking just as grand as a well groomed Prime. Mechs in the corner were playing music filling the giant room with beautiful songs. It all looked so beautiful and optic cracking but as Jazz walked in further a few higher class mechs looked up and stared at him. Jazz halted in his tracks and wasn't sure what to do or say but Mirage stepped in and bowed.

'Greetings my dear friends. I hope you are enjoying yourselves.'

The group of Alpha's who were staring at Jazz looked to Mirage and bowed in respect.

'Good to see you Mirage. May I ask why you in the company of this...lower class peasant?'

That comment wasn't too bad since Jazz had heard worse but Mirage thought it was the rudest thing for anyone to say. Instead of snapping back he just smiled sweetly and replied in a calm tone.

'Well you see dear friends he is quite an amusing character. You heard about that nickname that everyone is now addressing Lord Cortexion? This was the mech who first uttered it right in front of him.'

Jazz realized Mirage was talking about the 'Walking Temple Decoration' insult he had thrown at Cortexion back at that dinner. At first he thought these Alpha's would be angered at discovering who it was that insulted one of their own kin. However they all suddenly looked at him in a very interesting way.

'So you're the one who gave that idiot a fitting name. I wasn't expecting a Gamma to come up with something like that.'

'Who would of guessed that it was a Gamma that gave him such an amusing title.'

Jazz blinked in confusion as the Alpha's began to laugh. They thought it was funny? Looking at Mirage the young Alpha just smirked and explained.

'In case you didn't figure it out a lot of mechs don't like Cortexion. That little joke of yours has become a hit in the grand halls.'

That little insult had become that popular? These mechs must of really hated Cortexion if it was that popular. The Alpha's then stepped closer to Jazz as if they were no longer disgusted by him.

'So little Gamma...what else would you call that walking temple decoration?'

At first Jazz wasn't sure if he would say anything in case he got into trouble but Mirage nudged him as if to say that it was alright. He looked back to the group of Alpha's who were waiting for Jazz to say something else about Lord Cortexion. Well if this was one way to impress them and gain at least a small speck of their respect that he might as well just play along. But what else would he call that jerk?

'W-well...he acts all high and mighty when he's really a snobby little coward and apprently he now has a thing for Optimus Prime when he used to dispise him. So I would have to call him an Aft kissing stuck up sissy.'

For a moment the Alpha's did and said nothing as they took in what Jazz had just said. They just stared at the young Gamma as if they weren't even impressed with his new nickname for Cortexion. For a few clicks Jazz had thought he went a little overboard and even Mirage looked a little concerned. Were they going to report him for using such language? However they began to laugh again and Jazz felt himself relax a little. As the Alpha's continued to laugh and repeat what Jazz had just said Mirage decided it was time to drag him away and led him over to the beverage table.

'Sorry about that. Alpha's may have top of the line software but it takes them a while to understand a few words from the lower class world.'

That was relief. Jazz did think he went a little over the top but compared to the last nickname he thought this one was rather fitting. Before Mirage could even talk about the new nickname he come up for Lord Cortexion a loud voice suddenly boomed throughout the great hall.

'Please show your respects for our Lord Prime and his guests from the great city of Sim Fur and the powerful metropolis of Kaon.'

Jazz looked up and watched as Optimus Prime walked in with his brother and some elderly mechs he had never seen before. He guessed that they were the senators from Sim Fur. Everyone looked in their direction and lowered their heads in respect. The music died down but did not stop. Movement in the great hall came to halt as everyone stopped to welcome the Prime and his guests. Mirage lowered his head in the same manner as everyone else and Jazz quickly followed their lead. He did however look up just a little to get a better look at these visitors. The group of elderly mechs wore metallic robes that were coloured in a dark yellow with glowing marks decorated here and there. Sim Fur mechs looked so very different from Iacon mechs.

He also spotted Optimus talking with his brother and when he saw how he was presented he felt something ignite within his Spark. He was wearing a beautifully crafted shoulder armour with a long ruby red cape hanging gracefully from his back. His armour was polished until it looked like he was glowing and he just looked so handsome than normal. Jazz could not help but stare at him in wonder as he walked by. The Prime had noticed Jazz as he walked past him and he smiled, winking as he did. That wink alone made Jazz blush a little and he watched as Optimus walk away with the Sim Fur Senators.

Then another mech entered Jazz's gaze and along with him some hushed whispers followed. Jazz guessed that this Senator Prixus from Kaon since he looked so very different from the Sim Fur senators. As he walked in and got closer to Jazz he was able to look at him clearly. He was tall...just as tall as Optimus. He helm was colour black and red and shaped to look like he was wearing a jagged crown. He did have a handsome face but he every time a mech or femme approached him to greet him he let out a low snarl and shooed them away. As he got closer and closer to where Jazz was standing he felt a chill grow in his Spark. Something within him was creaming at Jazz to get away from, to run and hide so that he would never see him ever again but his feet couldn't move. There was something about that mech that made the young Gamma shiver in fear.

Once the music had started to play again and the mechs and femmes around himraised their heads to carry on chatting with their friends Jazz suddenly turned his back on the Kaon senetor so he wouldn't see him. Mirage noticed the scared expression on Jazz's face and stepped over to inquire what was wrong. However when Senetor Prixus walked past them glaring at them he had a good guess why Jazz suddenly grew a pair of cold feet.

'OK I know he's a really creepy mech and all but try to relax. He won't try anything on you if you just stay clear from him.'

That didn't really help. He could still feel those optics of his piercing through his armour and glaring at his bare Spark. Even though he had heard the stories of what he was like he wasn't really scared of him but now that he was here and within Jazz's presence he couldn't help but wish he wasn't here. He didn't know why but that mech scared him for some reason. As he tried to calm himself Mirage nudged him again.

'Optimus is calling you over, you better go.'

Jazz flinched and woke up out of his frightened trance when Mirage mentioned Optimus Prime's name. Looking up and scanning the crowds he finally spotted Optimus talking with the group of senators from Sim Fur. That Senator Prixus didn't seem to be around and neither was Ultra Magnus which made Jazz feel a little less nervous. Optimus looked up from his talking with the senators and beckoned Jazz to come over. Mirage wished him luck and walked off to find someone to talk to. The young Gamma took a deep breath of cool air to get himself from over heating and trying to look a little dignified walked over. As he got closer he could hear what the senators were talking about and some of them noticed Jazz coming towards them.

'So Optimus Prime where is this Gamma you told us so much about?'

As Jazz drew nearer he found that his little steps were getting shorter and shorter. However Optimus had spotted him and managed to put an arm round his shoulder and pull him into the small circle. He found himself looking at a group of elderly mechs who stared at him in curiosity.

'This, my good senetors, is Jazz. He is of the Gamma class and is my guest with the grand halls.'

The senators looked at Jazz as if they had never seen his type before. Then again not a lot of higher ups had seen a Gamma up close before. Jazz gulped and tried to smile but his nerves were beginning to kick in again. One of the senators stepped forward and began to examine Jazz with his weary optics. the young Gamma kept still as the old mech studied him from head to foot.

'My, my...I haven't seen a Gamma in eons...I have to say that he wasn't what I expected.'

He then gently took Jazz's hands and studied them as well. Jazz was confused and he looked up at Optimus who just smirked down at him as if to say just relax, they don't bite. He then looked back at the old mech who was studying his hands.

'He clearly wasn't built for hard labour...but that doesn't mean he can carry out some simple tasks...does he have some form of employment?'

The old senator had directed that question at Optimus who replied honestly.

'Not yet. High Councilman Trax has tasked himself with finding one that Jazz here would both succeed in and enjoy. He is quite an enthusiastic character and I'm sure you all will enjoy his company as I have.'

Jazz felt Optimus nudged him gently with his hands as if he was trying to say go ahead and say something. What could he say? He wasn't sure what to do or say. The elderly senators looked to Jazz and awaited him to say something. Trying to think of something polite Jazz spoke and prayed to Primus that whatever he said would not offend the senators.

'N-nice to meet ya all...I'm Jazz...well ya already knew that but...um...hi.'

Primus that went well. Jazz wanted to disappear right there and then after realizing that he sounded like a complete idiot. The senators however didn't seem to mind how he spoke and a few of them chuckled as Jazz began to blush.

'Aw the poor dear is afraid...now there young there is nothing to be afraid about...we're not evil...like a certain someone,' chuckled an elderly femme senator.

'So Jazz...what do you do for a living? Since you live down in the slums I can't imagine that it's a pleasant one.'

Yet again Jazz was unable to speak and he looked up at Optimus who just looked back with his kind optics and with them told Jazz that it was OK. Looking back at the senators Jazz hoped and prayed again that what he said wouldn't upset them.

'W-well...I work in an Energon bar...as a waiter...and it ain't a nice place to work if ya know what I mean. The Energon there is cheap and it's definitely not sweet but it's the only place where I can work. The guy I work for is a credit grubbing sludge can who works me to the core but never gives me the credits I earned! Plus the Beta's and Delta's who visit never show me any respect! They call me names, expect me to super nice no matter how mean they are and half the time they want a piece of me! I mean even my dam boss wanted to sell my aft to-...'

Jazz halted with what he was saying when he realized that he went way, way over board. He said things he should not had said in front of elderly and important mechs and he quickly covered his mouth to stop himself from uttering anything else. The elderly senators just gazed at him, their expressions showed that they were surprised from what Jazz had told them and possibly disgusted by what he said. For a momet everything went silent and Jazz had presumed that he had just screwed up big time. However Optimus suddenly spoke to break the silence.

'It is true. He was quite rude and even charged me when I wanted to speak with Jazz. I believe this is because the Gamma's are struggling with the means to earn credits which has forced them to find other means to get them. If we manage to change these laws they will cease these vile acts and be able to find good honest work.'

To Jazz's surprise the senator's looked up at Optimus and seemed to agree with him.

'It is true that the econamy has risen is some areas and it wouldn't surprise me that the Gamma's would suffer from it as well. The Gamma's in Sim Fur have been sneaking into the main city and take part in illegal professions. Are you saying that if we change these laws they would cease these vile acts once and for all?'

'Well I believe we should give them a chance to find good honest work and prove to the rest of society that Gamma's can function among us. I believe you should done as I have done and allow a few Gamma's in your city to live up in the main city as a test run. If we don't many of them will continue to live sad and unpleasant lives like Jazz here. This change in law just won't effect them remember.'

'Yes but the other classes have been telling stoires to one another about how Gamma's are vile, scary and demonic. If you want to prove that they aren't then Jazz here will have to find a job that the whole of Cybertron would take interest in.'

'What do you suggest?'

'Well I have heard that Blaster is looking for new emplyees on that popular broadcast frequency of his. Thousands of mechs tune into that show. You should ask High Councilman Trax about this.'

'Well I find it appaluing that young mechs like this one here are forced into jobs that just plain degrade them just to stay alive. I believe that they should have jobs that stop just that and work amongst the other classes.'

'I have to agree with you Optimus Prime that these rules and laws about the ranks and classes just divide up our race and cause strife amongst our people.'

Jazz was amazed that Optimus was able to turn the whole situation around in his favour. He was glad that they weren't greatly offended by what he had said and was glad that things seemed to be going well. As the senators talked away with Optimus they finally turned their attention back to Jazz.

'So Jazz...what is life like down there in the slums? What are your temples like?'

'Temples? Well...um...ya see...er...we don't have any temples down there.'

At the mention of that the senators suddenly looked horrified and began talking with each other in shock and disgust.

'No temples! Does that mean that they never learned the teachings of Primus? That they never heard the stories of the thirteen?'

Were they really that upset about it? Jazz didn't think it was such a big deal. They did have shrines but they had no temples. Jazz lived near one and once upon a time when he was still young he made an offering to Primus in the hopes that his dream would come true. Why were the Sim Fur senators so upset about it? Optimus chuckled as the senators continued to squabbled and he leaned down to Jazz's level to explain why the senators were so upset about it.

'Sim Fur is a city that is practicly run by the temple. Their grand temple is even more grander than ours. They merely wish that everyone on Cybertron listens to the teachings of Primus and have made sure that a temple exsists in every city and in every level.'

That made sense. Jazz had seen some Temple fanatics in the past when they came down to the slums to spread their teachings. The Enforcers told them to leave and it got quite messy after that. After the senators stopped their squabbling they looked back at Jazz with more questions to ask.

'Don't you have any education down there? What grade of Energon do you have? What are your living accomodations like?'

As Jazz explained what life down in the slums was like the senators took all the information in. Some stories disgusted them and other stories made them look upset. As Jazz talked they asked him other questions like where did Jazz live? Where was he born? Who were his creators and where were they? What was Jazz interested in? What were his hopes and dreams? Jazz didn't tell them about his romantic dream but he told him of his other dreams. He even told them about a few other good Gamma's he knew and worked with and didn't dare tell them any more about Mac or Crystal. As he went on and on about his life in the slums the senators seemed to take interest in him. He seemed to had proved to them that Gamma's weren't as scary and evil as everyone said that they were. Jazz even managed to throw in a few of his less rude jokes in just to earn him some credit and it seemed to be working. After just a few clicks of talking Jazz seemed to had earned the respect of the senators who turned their attention back to Optimus.

'I have to say Optimus this young Gamma is a delight. We can't make it official here but I can say that you will have Sim Fur's support. I do recommend however that you take my advise and find him a temporary career up here to prove to the rest of society he can function with us.'

Optimus looked pleased with the result.

'I thank you for your support. I promise that I will find Jazz a career that he would both enjoy and profit from.'

Jazz smiled as the senators seemed pleased with what they had come for. However the happy mood was cut short when a cold deep voice suddenly interrupted their peaceful chat.

'Allowing Gamma's into the city? Such nonsense. Why does it not surprise me that someone like you my dear Optimus came up with such a silly idea.'

The senators along with Optimus looked up to see where the voice came from. Jazz followed their gaze and his Spark began to shiver within him once again when he saw the senator of Kaon walk over towards them with a smug expression. Jazz could feel his whole frame tremble as Senator Prixus walked over holding a tall glass of Energon in his claw like hands. The Sim Fur senators looked angered whilst Optimus remained calm. Once senator Primus stood amongst them one of the Sim Fur senator's sneered.

'Why aren't I surprised that you Lord Prixus would oppose of this idea. I'm surprised you even bothered to show up.'

Prixus smirked and took a sip of his Energon before replying.

'I just came to see what all this nonsense was about. I thought my CPU had crashed when I heard that our Lord Prime wanted to bring those lower world abominations up into our majestic cities! But imagine how amusing it was when I discovered that he was actually serious! I was even more amused when I heard he found a Gamma wrentch and brought it bcak to the Grand Halls. It wouldn't surprise me if he just keeps it up here as a pet.'

As Lord Prixus began to laugh coldly Jazz could not help but glare angrily at this rude Omega Supirior. Did that mean that he just came here to mock and laugh at Optimus Prime's mission to change the laws about the rank and class of Cybertron? Did that mean he wasn't going to offer the support of Kaon city? Was he here just to waste Optimus Prime's time with insults and taunts? As Prixus continued to smirk and sip his high grade Energon whilst ignoring the Sim Fur senators started to throw their own insults at him Jazz looked up at Optimus surprised to see that he was calm as always. Was he expecting this? It still wasn't fair that Optimus went to all this trouble to get a cities support to only have one of the senator's laugh in his face about it. What kind of mech would do that to a kind mech like Optimus.

Optimus sighed but stepped forward to speak with Lord Prixus in a calm and friendly manner. He was indeed trying his best to make a good impression in front of this rude and cruel mech he wasn't going to show any anger at him no matter what he said.

'I am saddened that you are not offering your support but I am still glad that you could visit Lord Prixus.'

Lord Prixus looked at Optimus and sneered.

'I still can't believe that the Matrix chose you of all mechs. I mean you want those lower class creatures to live among us as equals? It will never happen.'

'This isn't just about having the Gamma's live with us. It's also about allowing other mechs and femmes of other classes having the freedom to do what they wish. To have the job they want, to bond with the mech they love and to be with other mechs of other classes as equals.'

The Kaon senetor laughed.

'Please my dear Optimus Cybertron has enforced this rule since it's birth. You may be Prime but even you can't change such a thing.'

Jazz was starting to get angry at this mech and the fear within him that this mech had caused was starting to vanish. Knowing it could get him into trouble he stepped forward and, trying his best not to snarl, answered back in Prime's place.

'Yes he can!'

His voice suddenly caught the attention of Lord Prixus and when those dark ruby red optics looked right at him Jazz suddenly felt that fear coming back. Lord Prixus stared at him for a while. His optics took in every inch of his black and white frame, studying him carefully. The young Gamma felt a chill run through him as Lord Prixus continued to stare at him with an emotionless face. It felt incredibly disturbing and for a moment Jazz thought he was actually going to kill him. However he just smirked and stepped closer to Jazz making the poor thing step back. Lord Prixus towered over him and smirked.

'My, my...is this the little Gamma you were telling us about?'

Jazz gulped and tried to find the courage to not show any fear but it wasn't working. Thankfully Optimus managed to get near them and gripped Jazz's shoulder in a protective way. He even sounded like he was trying to protect Jazz as he spoke.

'Yes Lord Cortexion. This is Jazz and he is from the Iacon slums.'

Lord Cortexion just stared down at Jazz not caring what Optimus had told him. Even though Optimus was with him Jazz still felt afraid being around this mech. The Kaon senator bent down till he was optic level with Jazz and placed an finger under his chin and with amazing strength was able to force Jazz's face up with that single digit. Having him so close was making his Spark pulse extremely fast out of fear.

'My for a Gamma he is certainly...appealing to the optics. I'm impressed that he even had the nerve to answer back at me. So my dear Optimus...where did you meet this delightful little thing?'

Optimus answered and pulled Jazz back a little, much to Jazz's relief.

'I met him down in the slums. When I was looking for someone he offered to assist me-...'

'The slums? What were you of all mechs doing in a place like that? Further more you decided to trust this mech you've never met before? Why does that not surprise me? I mean you have a had a history with mechs you never met before and you decide to trust them without even giving it a second thought. Look what happened after that. I see that you've learned nothing from your past experiences.'

Optimus suddenly looked like someone had slapped him in the face and for once he looked speechless. Even the Sim Fur senators looked at one another with questioning looks. Jazz was puzzled by what he meant. Had something happened that he wasn't aware of? What did he mean by all that? Before Optimus could even say anything there was yet another loud voice booming across the great hall.

'His Lord Alpha Trion has returned! Show your respects!'

The hall suddenly went quiet and everyone looked up. Jazz turned and to his surprise Optimus left his side without even saying anything. Before he could even think about following him he felt a cold hand grip his shoulder and a cold voice whisper in his audios.

'We will meet again...my dear Jazz.'

Jazz looked over his shoulder to see that Lord Prixus was now walking away. What did he mean by that? Why was he suddenly interested in him? Before Jazz could even think about answers for these questions he heard a loud commotion coming from the great hall's entrance. Looking past a few Alpha's he saw that Optimus was standing there alongside Ultra Magnus. In front of them stood an elderly Omega Superior mech who looked extremely old yet grand. Even though he looked ancient he stood proud and tall. Was he really Optimus Prime's creator. He wasn't alone. Standing next to him was another old Superior mech who didn't look like a snob but looked gruff and battle-worn. On Alpha Trion's other side was a younger Omega Superior who looked extremely charming and very pretty with all his bright colours decorating his armour. Who were they? Family? Friends? Some Alpha's near Jazz were talking out loud.

'I knew Alpha Trion was trying to find a suitable mate for his son. My isn't he adorable? He would make a fitting mate for him wouldn't he?'

'They would make a perfect couple. Just look at him. He's so young and I bet he would produce him a fine Sparkling.'

'I'm so jealous. How did Alpha Trion find such a beauty?'

'Optimus Prime is so lucky to have such a charming mate!'

Jazz looked up a little horrified. Mate? Him? Optimus? Looking back at Optimus he watched unknowingly horrified that Alpha Trion was introducing the young Omega Superior to both Optimus and Ultra Magnus as if he were a matchmaker. The young mech bowed politely and Optimus did the same. The young mech was indeed quite an optic catcher and he looked so very appealing that even Lord Cortexion was giving him some looks. They then began to talk and all five of them left Jazz's sight to go talk somewhere in private. As they disappeared Jazz felt something in his Spark twitch painfully. Mech's all around him began to talk in an excited manner. As if they were happy to see that Optimus had met someone to meet his standards. But Jazz...he didn't feel happy at all. He felt...incredibly sad...upset...angry...miserable. Even though he was surrounded by so many mechs he felt so incredibly...lonely.

Description
A Love Out of Reach
TFG1 OPxJ
Feelings for the Gamma

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Optimus sighed with relief once the media mechs had finally gone after he answered all of his questions. For his first time as a Prime talking to the media it went quite well. Even Ultra Magnus didn't complain about it and that felt like he had done something right in his brother's opinion. Now he had to prepare to welcome the senators from the other cities, prepare a welcoming speech, plan a meeting with them when the time came to discuss the change in laws but before all that he had to get ready for the function tomorrow. It sounded easy but it was a lot of work and Ultra Magnus was always reminding him. Thankfully he had an aid who helped plan and inform him of what was happening. As he rested in his quarters to escape the ever watching optics of his brother his aid began to read back the welcoming speech that Optimus roughly wrote not too long ago. She was a perky Beta mech who worked under Elita-1 but Optimus borrowed her since his real aid was taking care of Jazz.

Speaking of Jazz Optimus began to wonder how he was doing. Prowl had told him he was taking him into the Beta sector of the city to purchase a harmonia-stella of his own. Prowl had also voiced his concerns about the young Gamma. He told Optimus that half the time Jazz seemed to thinking about something and he looked troubled by it. He also wasn't acting like himself and Optimus was convinced that it was because Ultra Magnus scared him with his threats. The Prime sighed as he began to wonder if Jazz was indeed happy up here. He had lived down in the slums his whole life and wasn't used to the life up here. The Alpha's hated him, the Superior's despised him and all of them just wanted to see him kicked back into the slums. Was it right to have Jazz live in a place where he was hated by many?

Another thing that worried him was what the visitors would think of him. The Sim Fur Senator's wouldn't mind him he was sure about that but Lord Prixis from Kaon was a walking cloud of storming hatred. He was an Omega Superior and he acted as if he were the Prime himself. He hated Optimus and his brother for he made that quite clear in a media gathering when he told the public that having an immature young mech acting as Prime was big mistake and that Ultra Magnus was a Sparkless mech who didn't give a dam about anyone but himself. He had earned himself the nickname, the Molten Executor for he was the one who enforced the death penalty, had the smelting pits built and it was rumoured that he executed his own mate after she cheated on him or something. He would murder Jazz if he had the chance. Optimus was hoping to make peace with him tonight.

He then began to wonder how Jazz was feeling right now. He remembered when he first met him he was full of life but now he was acting like a frightened Sparkling who tried to avoid any Alpha who crossed his path. Deep down he wanted to see the young Gamma smirk like he did back down in the slums. He wanted to see him be himself and act like he didn't give a dam about anyone or anything. He wanted to see that Jazz was truly happy. He just wanted him to smile like he meant it. He looked a whole lot better when he was smiling...he even looked quite cute when he smiled. He couldn't deny that Jazz was indeed cute...and very appealing to the optics...he wasn't like all the sobby Alpha's and the almighty Superior's. Sure he was loud but that was another thing Optimus like about him. He just hoped that he would be alright at the function.

'Well sir it looks like your speech is A-OK! I pretty sure it will impress the senetors from the other cities.'

His temporary Aid had finished the speech but Optimus didn't hear the whole thing as his mind began to wander again. The young femme sighed and stepped forward bonking Optimus on the head with her data pad. Even though she was just a mere Beta and Optimus was the Prime he didn't scare her. In fact she knew Optimus since she was a sparkling and she saw him as a fatherly like figure. She wasn't even scared of Ultra Magnus and Elita-1 was rather impressed with that.

'Elita warned me you had a habit of day dreaming! Please Optimus Prime sir you have to pay attention!' she pouted

Optimus blinked after the bonk on the head and looked up at the pouting femme.

'Forgive me Moonracer my mind was indeed somewhere else.'

The young femme sighed and placed her hands on her hips.

'Now, now Optimus Prime sir you have to pay attention or you'll look like an idiot in front of the visitors!'

The Prime nodded and took the data pad from her to give it a quick read over himself. At that moment there was a knock on the door and in entered Ratchet with his tool bag. He gave Moonracer a playful wink and walked over to Optimus placing his kit down on the table.

'Time for a check up!'

That was young Moonracer's cue to leave. Waving farewell to Optimus and avoiding Ratchet so he wouldn't spank her aft again she left the room to finish up the rest of her work. The Medic chuckled as the young femme left and was rather hoping to give her a quick spank but decided against it. Once they were alone he walked over to Optimus with his tool kit.

'That time already? Primus my memory circuits must be acting up,' sighed Optimus as he sat up.

'That's what I'm paid to prevent. Besides your memory circuits are fine you're just working too hard as usal.'

Optimus shrugged as he relaxed into Ratchet's care. The medic carefully opened a slot on his helm and began to gently probe and gather data with his tools. With Optimus he had to take special care when checking his systems and hardware for a very good reason. It was the only thing that Ultra Magnus trusted him to do when it came to his brother's health since Ratchet knew how to handle him. As the medic checked his readings he frowned with what he saw.

'Well you are stressed like you normally are...but there's something else.'

That made the Prime look up a little concerned but was surprised to see Ratchet was now smirking at him.

'If I'm right, which I'm normally am, you are showing stress spikes that indicate that you are worried. I doubt it's the little campaign or the senator's visit since you're pretty confident about these things...so I'm guessing you're worried about that cute little Gamma.'

He wasn't known as the best Medic in Iacon for no reason. Ratchet could tell what was on any ones mind just by looking at their CPU readings and he always got it right first time. Optimus just sat there looking at Ratchet unable to hide it. He was indeed worried about Jazz and the medic was able to point that out to him just by looking at his stress levels. Ratchet just sat there smirking.

'Awww you are worried about him aren't you? How cute. I didn't think he was your type.'

'What are you implying?' snapped Optimus, embarrassed that he was blushing a little.

Ratchet just laughed and sat on a nearby chair with his arms folded.

'Oh stop it Optimus. I've seen the way you act around him and it's very different to how you act around me and your other friends. I may act like a sex craving pervert sometimes but even I know when someone has deep feelings for someone else.'

Optimus suddenly felt a little uncomfortable and his Spark seemed to be pulsing rather fast. What did he mean he acted different around Jazz? Didn't he treat him like he treated his other friends? When he first saw the Gamma world he had wanted to help them and Jazz was the first one he met. He kept a promise he made with him because he believed it was the right thing to do and he wanted him and the rest of his kind by showing him to the rest of the world, to prove that that Gamma's weren't foul creatures. He brought him up here as a guest and as any friend would was concerned with his health and care. He treated him like any other friend...didn't he? Ratchet just sat there smirking at him.

'Come on admit it already. He is a cute little mech ain't he?'

That comment alone made Optimus blush again when he found himself picturing Jazz smiling at him. However he turned his head away and grumbled.

'I'll...I'll admit that he is...attractive...but he is my friend, nothing more!'

Ratchet sighed and sat up.

'You know Optimus I can spot a liar a mega-mile off and you are in lying city.'

'I just told you that I did indeed think he was attractive!'

'I asked you if you thought he was cute. I never used the word attractive. So he's your type?'

Optimus felt his body heat up again and frowned angrily as Ratchet continued to put him in the spotlight. How did Ratchet manage to drag him into this conversation? He had quite a glossa and he knew how to use it.

'Ratchet he is my friend and nothing more! I treat him as I would any friend and I am merely concerned for his health! He is a Gamma in a higher class world so to everyone up here he is a pest and my aim is to make them see he isn't one! So would you please cease with these silly accusations!'

The medic shrugged and sighed deeply. Getting back up he continued to probe and check the Prime's system.

'Ok fine have it your way. Anyway why are you so defensive about it? You may be the Prime and all but you wouldn't care who you'd take as a mate and you wouldn't care what anyone else would think. Is it because of what your brother might say...or is it because you're still not over-...'

Optimus suddenly shot Ratchet a very cold and dark glare as if to say don't you dare go any further. Ratchet was not used to seeing Optimus like this so it was no surprise that he jumped back and ceased talking. He didn't mean to bring that topic up. Ultra Magnus had warned him countless times to keep it to himself and Optimus never spoke about it with anyone...not even his own brother or his creator. In fact he never talked about it with anyone. It made Ratchet worry sometimes. Optimus always acted optimistic and cheerful around everyone but he could see that the Prime was indeed trying to keep all those painful emotions hidden. Optimus may be concerned for Jazz's health but he was more concerned with his health. If he continued to bottle up these feelings who knew what could happen.

Time passed and Ratchet had finished his check up with the Prime. He was doing OK but recommended that Optimus should have a few periods of rest during each day until his stress levels were stable. A Prime was always stressed with work so it was going to take a while. Optimus had forgotten about the topic that Ratchet had tried to bring up and thanked him, promising he would do as he says. With the medic gone to carry out the rest of his daily check ups with other mechs. Checking his schedule the Prime discovered he had some free time before Prowl returned to take over Moonracer's duty as his aid. Since there was no big rush he decided to take a small stroll before returning to work. He wanted to clear his mind of a few things an taking a walk always helped solved that.

He used to take leisurely walks through the crystal gardens and the city below before he became Prime but now he couldn't. The only places he could go where the gardens up here in the towers where snobby Alpha's walked around bragging about how great they were. It wasn't as relaxing as he had hoped it would be but it was the closest thing to it. The gardens up here were indeed beautiful but the atmosphere didn't feel at all pleasant. When mechs saw him they would try and get his attention or even try to join him on his walk. They would try and stop him just to share small talk but they didn't care at all about what they talked about with Optimus. All they cared about was being seen with him and bragging about it to their friends later. To them Optimus Prime was nothing more than a tool to gain popularity. It was things like these that made Optimus feel a little lonely over time. At first he did enjoy talking with other mechs who approached him but as time passed he was finally able to see why they came to him. He saw no interest in their optics, he heard no love in their voices. All they cared about was being seen with him.

Even though he was surrounded by so many mechs he still felt so very lonely inside. It was a strange feeling but it was the only way he could describe it. None of them wanted to understand him or get to know him better. He did have friends like Prowl, Ratchet and Mirage but their work and their lives made them almost distant to him. They only came to him nowadays when it was about work or other things. In the past they came to him as a friend wanting to spend time with him and nothing more but now...everything was so different. Everything had changed once it was announced he was to be the next Prime. Was this the price of becoming a Prime? Loosing your friends? To be all alone with no one there even though they were so close by? When he was young he predicted that he was doomed for a lonely life and had tried to find someone to be with to prevent that...that ended in a tragedy and since then he found that he was unknowingly distancing himself from mechs who tried to approach him...even his friends...even his own brother.

His walk had taken him past a window that belonged to the room that Jazz was staying in. Although he wasn't the type to just take a peek in without him knowing about it he couldn't help but do so. He wasn't expecting Jazz to be in since Prowl had taken him to the Beta market. However as he got closer he heard a strange noise and his curiosity grew. Peering in and making sure he wasn't seen he found himself looking at they young Gamma who was sitting on his berth playing around with a Harmonia-stella. He plucked at the strings of light as he tried to get the music to sound right and every now then he lookied at the holo pad in front of him that had the basic instructions of how to play one. He winced when the notes did sound right, cursed when he messed up a tune and grinned when he made a small tune. He did look like he was enjoying himself. Not a care in the world. He didn't seem at all worried about the function tomorrow night. All he cared about was making music.

Optimus watched a little while longer before leaving him alone. It made him happy to see Jazz enjoying himself. At least he wasn't suffering like the Alpha's wanted him to suffer. To be honest when Optimus first met Jazz he grew a little envious of him. Even though he lived a pit of a place he had the freedom to do whatever he wanted to do. And even though he didn't know who Optimus was at the time he didn't mind at all to be with him and he didn't seem to care that he was walking around with a mech of a higher rank. Maybe that was the reason Optimus enjoyed be around him and why he wanted to thank him in a generous way. Still...he couldn't deny that seeing Jazz smile made him feel warm and happy deep down.

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The night of the function had arrived and Jazz was trying his best not to show how nervous he was. He had been playing the Harmonia-Stella since yesterday to try and calm his nerves whilst Prowl went over with him about how to address the mechs at the function. At first he was looking forward to the function but when Prowl informed him that he wasn't going he suddenly felt both upset and scared.

'Why ain't ya coming?' asked Jazz as he packed away his Harmonia-Stella.

'Because I am a Beta Enforcer Captain. That function is for a selected Alpha's, Superior's and Omega Superior's only. You are the exception since you're the guest of the Prime.'

Upon hearing that small bit of information made Jazz even more nervous than before. He was going to be the only low class mech in there? He was going to stick out big time. Prowl did say that Mirage was going to be there to watch him in his place but that still made Jazz worry. It wasn't because he doubted Mirage it was because that over the small amounto of time he had been up here he had thought of Prowl as a guardian type person. He was going to beg him to come but Prowl suddenly announced that during the function he was going to go on a date...with a certain merchant.

So Jazz kept quiet and decided to be brave. As the day darkened and the city lights grew brighter he began to prepare himself for the function. He applied the wax that Optimus had given to him and tried to look presentable. He still looked like a Gamma but at least he looked like a clean one. When the time had finally arrived he sat in his room waiting for an escort. Prowl had informed him that it would be Mirage before wishing him the best and leaving him. As the young Gamma waited he went over what he had to do and how to act in front of the higher ups. Bow and say 'I'm and honored to meet you sir/madam' and not say anything unless spoken to. If asked questions answer politely and to the best of your abilities. When Optimus Prime and the Senators from the other cities enter you bow with everyone else and wait until Optimus summons you to join them. The Senators from Sim Fur will be pleasant but be wary about the Senator from Kaon, Senator Prixus. If given the chance he will humiliate you in the worst way possible.

Jazz had heard stories about this Kaon Senator. he was cruel and showed no mercy to his victims. He enforced the death penalty and Jazz had heard rumours that he executed his own mate out of anger. He had never seen him before even though Jazz was originally from Kaon but he had heard he looked quite menacing yet deviously handsome. However time had caught up with him but they still say he looked like a charmer if it weren't for his vile attitude. He had also recently heard that this Kaon Senator hated both Optimus and Ultra Magnus with undying passion. He didn't know why but it had something to do with politics and such. Jazz decided not to venture there.

As he went over in his head how to act and behave there was a knock at the door. Looking up he saw Mirage entering and his armour looked shiner than normal. Since this was an important function he too had to look well groomed. That made the young Gamma realize that everyone else at the function was going to look cleaner than normal and that meant he was going to stick out big time. Mirage walked over to him and grinned.

'My don't you look pretty. I have to say I am a little envious.'

'Ya just saying to calm my nerves ain't ya?'

Mirage shrugged and pulled him to his feet.

'Come on hot stuff let's get to it...and whilst we walk you can tell me why Prowl just buffed up his armour and took off without telling anyone.'

As they walked to the great hall where the function was taking place Jazz explained to Mirage that whilst they were out looking for a Harmonia-Stella they met a chatty merchant named Bluestreak who seemed to have captured Prowl's interest. His guess was that he must of asked him out on a date whilst Jazz wandered off and upon hearing this Mirage suddenly became quite giddy.

'Ooh I knew he would find someone someday! What's this Bluestreak like?'

'Well...he looks a little like Prowl but cuter and he never stops talking. He is a nice mech though I could tell.'

'I hope I get to meet him someday. Now that Prowl is set up I can play cupid with someone else!'

Mirage suddenly looked at Jazz and grinned.

'I bet that I can find you someone at this function!'

'Please...in case you forgot this party is full of higher ups and I'm the only low class mech in there!'

'I can still try...oh by the way there's a rumour that Alpha Trion is going to show up since he stated not too long ago that he was returning to Iacon. If it's announced that he's about to enter the great hall than you have to bow again OK?'

Jazz appeared confused.

'Alpha Trion?'

'He's Optimus Prime's and Ultra Magnus's creator. He's also a member of the high council and the science and technology guild. He's highly respected so be careful if you end up near him.'

That bit of information surprised Jazz. Optimus Prime's own creator was coming? He began to wonder what he was like. As they drew nearer to the great hall Jazz could hear hundreds of mechs chatting and soft music playing. His nerves began to kick in and he almost stopped in his tracks but Mirage took a tight grip of his hand and smiled.

'Relax...even though you are the guest of honer they won't even notice you come in.'

Hopefully that was true so Jazz bulked up and continued to walk. Two guards stood either side of the entrance into the great hall. The looked at Mirage with respect but when they looked at Jazz it was nothing but disgust. They still allowed him entrance, their gaze making Jazz even more nervous. Inside the great hall Jazz couldn't help but awe in wonder. Giant crystal chandeliers floated in mid air and the walls were decorated with gems and patterns. The hall was filled with hundreds of higher class mechs and femmes, all of the looking just as grand as a well groomed Prime. Mechs in the corner were playing music filling the giant room with beautiful songs. It all looked so beautiful and optic cracking but as Jazz walked in further a few higher class mechs looked up and stared at him. Jazz halted in his tracks and wasn't sure what to do or say but Mirage stepped in and bowed.

'Greetings my dear friends. I hope you are enjoying yourselves.'

The group of Alpha's who were staring at Jazz looked to Mirage and bowed in respect.

'Good to see you Mirage. May I ask why you in the company of this...lower class peasant?'

That comment wasn't too bad since Jazz had heard worse but Mirage thought it was the rudest thing for anyone to say. Instead of snapping back he just smiled sweetly and replied in a calm tone.

'Well you see dear friends he is quite an amusing character. You heard about that nickname that everyone is now addressing Lord Cortexion? This was the mech who first uttered it right in front of him.'

Jazz realized Mirage was talking about the 'Walking Temple Decoration' insult he had thrown at Cortexion back at that dinner. At first he thought these Alpha's would be angered at discovering who it was that insulted one of their own kin. However they all suddenly looked at him in a very interesting way.

'So you're the one who gave that idiot a fitting name. I wasn't expecting a Gamma to come up with something like that.'

'Who would of guessed that it was a Gamma that gave him such an amusing title.'

Jazz blinked in confusion as the Alpha's began to laugh. They thought it was funny? Looking at Mirage the young Alpha just smirked and explained.

'In case you didn't figure it out a lot of mechs don't like Cortexion. That little joke of yours has become a hit in the grand halls.'

That little insult had become that popular? These mechs must of really hated Cortexion if it was that popular. The Alpha's then stepped closer to Jazz as if they were no longer disgusted by him.

'So little Gamma...what else would you call that walking temple decoration?'

At first Jazz wasn't sure if he would say anything in case he got into trouble but Mirage nudged him as if to say that it was alright. He looked back to the group of Alpha's who were waiting for Jazz to say something else about Lord Cortexion. Well if this was one way to impress them and gain at least a small speck of their respect that he might as well just play along. But what else would he call that jerk?

'W-well...he acts all high and mighty when he's really a snobby little coward and apprently he now has a thing for Optimus Prime when he used to dispise him. So I would have to call him an Aft kissing stuck up sissy.'

For a moment the Alpha's did and said nothing as they took in what Jazz had just said. They just stared at the young Gamma as if they weren't even impressed with his new nickname for Cortexion. For a few clicks Jazz had thought he went a little overboard and even Mirage looked a little concerned. Were they going to report him for using such language? However they began to laugh again and Jazz felt himself relax a little. As the Alpha's continued to laugh and repeat what Jazz had just said Mirage decided it was time to drag him away and led him over to the beverage table.

'Sorry about that. Alpha's may have top of the line software but it takes them a while to understand a few words from the lower class world.'

That was relief. Jazz did think he went a little over the top but compared to the last nickname he thought this one was rather fitting. Before Mirage could even talk about the new nickname he come up for Lord Cortexion a loud voice suddenly boomed throughout the great hall.

'Please show your respects for our Lord Prime and his guests from the great city of Sim Fur and the powerful metropolis of Kaon.'

Jazz looked up and watched as Optimus Prime walked in with his brother and some elderly mechs he had never seen before. He guessed that they were the senators from Sim Fur. Everyone looked in their direction and lowered their heads in respect. The music died down but did not stop. Movement in the great hall came to halt as everyone stopped to welcome the Prime and his guests. Mirage lowered his head in the same manner as everyone else and Jazz quickly followed their lead. He did however look up just a little to get a better look at these visitors. The group of elderly mechs wore metallic robes that were coloured in a dark yellow with glowing marks decorated here and there. Sim Fur mechs looked so very different from Iacon mechs.

He also spotted Optimus talking with his brother and when he saw how he was presented he felt something ignite within his Spark. He was wearing a beautifully crafted shoulder armour with a long ruby red cape hanging gracefully from his back. His armour was polished until it looked like he was glowing and he just looked so handsome than normal. Jazz could not help but stare at him in wonder as he walked by. The Prime had noticed Jazz as he walked past him and he smiled, winking as he did. That wink alone made Jazz blush a little and he watched as Optimus walk away with the Sim Fur Senators.

Then another mech entered Jazz's gaze and along with him some hushed whispers followed. Jazz guessed that this Senator Prixus from Kaon since he looked so very different from the Sim Fur senators. As he walked in and got closer to Jazz he was able to look at him clearly. He was tall...just as tall as Optimus. He helm was colour black and red and shaped to look like he was wearing a jagged crown. He did have a handsome face but he every time a mech or femme approached him to greet him he let out a low snarl and shooed them away. As he got closer and closer to where Jazz was standing he felt a chill grow in his Spark. Something within him was creaming at Jazz to get away from, to run and hide so that he would never see him ever again but his feet couldn't move. There was something about that mech that made the young Gamma shiver in fear.

Once the music had started to play again and the mechs and femmes around himraised their heads to carry on chatting with their friends Jazz suddenly turned his back on the Kaon senetor so he wouldn't see him. Mirage noticed the scared expression on Jazz's face and stepped over to inquire what was wrong. However when Senetor Prixus walked past them glaring at them he had a good guess why Jazz suddenly grew a pair of cold feet.

'OK I know he's a really creepy mech and all but try to relax. He won't try anything on you if you just stay clear from him.'

That didn't really help. He could still feel those optics of his piercing through his armour and glaring at his bare Spark. Even though he had heard the stories of what he was like he wasn't really scared of him but now that he was here and within Jazz's presence he couldn't help but wish he wasn't here. He didn't know why but that mech scared him for some reason. As he tried to calm himself Mirage nudged him again.

'Optimus is calling you over, you better go.'

Jazz flinched and woke up out of his frightened trance when Mirage mentioned Optimus Prime's name. Looking up and scanning the crowds he finally spotted Optimus talking with the group of senators from Sim Fur. That Senator Prixus didn't seem to be around and neither was Ultra Magnus which made Jazz feel a little less nervous. Optimus looked up from his talking with the senators and beckoned Jazz to come over. Mirage wished him luck and walked off to find someone to talk to. The young Gamma took a deep breath of cool air to get himself from over heating and trying to look a little dignified walked over. As he got closer he could hear what the senators were talking about and some of them noticed Jazz coming towards them.

'So Optimus Prime where is this Gamma you told us so much about?'

As Jazz drew nearer he found that his little steps were getting shorter and shorter. However Optimus had spotted him and managed to put an arm round his shoulder and pull him into the small circle. He found himself looking at a group of elderly mechs who stared at him in curiosity.

'This, my good senetors, is Jazz. He is of the Gamma class and is my guest with the grand halls.'

The senators looked at Jazz as if they had never seen his type before. Then again not a lot of higher ups had seen a Gamma up close before. Jazz gulped and tried to smile but his nerves were beginning to kick in again. One of the senators stepped forward and began to examine Jazz with his weary optics. the young Gamma kept still as the old mech studied him from head to foot.

'My, my...I haven't seen a Gamma in eons...I have to say that he wasn't what I expected.'

He then gently took Jazz's hands and studied them as well. Jazz was confused and he looked up at Optimus who just smirked down at him as if to say just relax, they don't bite. He then looked back at the old mech who was studying his hands.

'He clearly wasn't built for hard labour...but that doesn't mean he can carry out some simple tasks...does he have some form of employment?'

The old senator had directed that question at Optimus who replied honestly.

'Not yet. High Councilman Trax has tasked himself with finding one that Jazz here would both succeed in and enjoy. He is quite an enthusiastic character and I'm sure you all will enjoy his company as I have.'

Jazz felt Optimus nudged him gently with his hands as if he was trying to say go ahead and say something. What could he say? He wasn't sure what to do or say. The elderly senators looked to Jazz and awaited him to say something. Trying to think of something polite Jazz spoke and prayed to Primus that whatever he said would not offend the senators.

'N-nice to meet ya all...I'm Jazz...well ya already knew that but...um...hi.'

Primus that went well. Jazz wanted to disappear right there and then after realizing that he sounded like a complete idiot. The senators however didn't seem to mind how he spoke and a few of them chuckled as Jazz began to blush.

'Aw the poor dear is afraid...now there young there is nothing to be afraid about...we're not evil...like a certain someone,' chuckled an elderly femme senator.

'So Jazz...what do you do for a living? Since you live down in the slums I can't imagine that it's a pleasant one.'

Yet again Jazz was unable to speak and he looked up at Optimus who just looked back with his kind optics and with them told Jazz that it was OK. Looking back at the senators Jazz hoped and prayed again that what he said wouldn't upset them.

'W-well...I work in an Energon bar...as a waiter...and it ain't a nice place to work if ya know what I mean. The Energon there is cheap and it's definitely not sweet but it's the only place where I can work. The guy I work for is a credit grubbing sludge can who works me to the core but never gives me the credits I earned! Plus the Beta's and Delta's who visit never show me any respect! They call me names, expect me to super nice no matter how mean they are and half the time they want a piece of me! I mean even my dam boss wanted to sell my aft to-...'

Jazz halted with what he was saying when he realized that he went way, way over board. He said things he should not had said in front of elderly and important mechs and he quickly covered his mouth to stop himself from uttering anything else. The elderly senators just gazed at him, their expressions showed that they were surprised from what Jazz had told them and possibly disgusted by what he said. For a momet everything went silent and Jazz had presumed that he had just screwed up big time. However Optimus suddenly spoke to break the silence.

'It is true. He was quite rude and even charged me when I wanted to speak with Jazz. I believe this is because the Gamma's are struggling with the means to earn credits which has forced them to find other means to get them. If we manage to change these laws they will cease these vile acts and be able to find good honest work.'

To Jazz's surprise the senator's looked up at Optimus and seemed to agree with him.

'It is true that the econamy has risen is some areas and it wouldn't surprise me that the Gamma's would suffer from it as well. The Gamma's in Sim Fur have been sneaking into the main city and take part in illegal professions. Are you saying that if we change these laws they would cease these vile acts once and for all?'

'Well I believe we should give them a chance to find good honest work and prove to the rest of society that Gamma's can function among us. I believe you should done as I have done and allow a few Gamma's in your city to live up in the main city as a test run. If we don't many of them will continue to live sad and unpleasant lives like Jazz here. This change in law just won't effect them remember.'

'Yes but the other classes have been telling stoires to one another about how Gamma's are vile, scary and demonic. If you want to prove that they aren't then Jazz here will have to find a job that the whole of Cybertron would take interest in.'

'What do you suggest?'

'Well I have heard that Blaster is looking for new emplyees on that popular broadcast frequency of his. Thousands of mechs tune into that show. You should ask High Councilman Trax about this.'

'Well I find it appaluing that young mechs like this one here are forced into jobs that just plain degrade them just to stay alive. I believe that they should have jobs that stop just that and work amongst the other classes.'

'I have to agree with you Optimus Prime that these rules and laws about the ranks and classes just divide up our race and cause strife amongst our people.'

Jazz was amazed that Optimus was able to turn the whole situation around in his favour. He was glad that they weren't greatly offended by what he had said and was glad that things seemed to be going well. As the senators talked away with Optimus they finally turned their attention back to Jazz.

'So Jazz...what is life like down there in the slums? What are your temples like?'

'Temples? Well...um...ya see...er...we don't have any temples down there.'

At the mention of that the senators suddenly looked horrified and began talking with each other in shock and disgust.

'No temples! Does that mean that they never learned the teachings of Primus? That they never heard the stories of the thirteen?'

Were they really that upset about it? Jazz didn't think it was such a big deal. They did have shrines but they had no temples. Jazz lived near one and once upon a time when he was still young he made an offering to Primus in the hopes that his dream would come true. Why were the Sim Fur senators so upset about it? Optimus chuckled as the senators continued to squabbled and he leaned down to Jazz's level to explain why the senators were so upset about it.

'Sim Fur is a city that is practicly run by the temple. Their grand temple is even more grander than ours. They merely wish that everyone on Cybertron listens to the teachings of Primus and have made sure that a temple exsists in every city and in every level.'

That made sense. Jazz had seen some Temple fanatics in the past when they came down to the slums to spread their teachings. The Enforcers told them to leave and it got quite messy after that. After the senators stopped their squabbling they looked back at Jazz with more questions to ask.

'Don't you have any education down there? What grade of Energon do you have? What are your living accomodations like?'

As Jazz explained what life down in the slums was like the senators took all the information in. Some stories disgusted them and other stories made them look upset. As Jazz talked they asked him other questions like where did Jazz live? Where was he born? Who were his creators and where were they? What was Jazz interested in? What were his hopes and dreams? Jazz didn't tell them about his romantic dream but he told him of his other dreams. He even told them about a few other good Gamma's he knew and worked with and didn't dare tell them any more about Mac or Crystal. As he went on and on about his life in the slums the senators seemed to take interest in him. He seemed to had proved to them that Gamma's weren't as scary and evil as everyone said that they were. Jazz even managed to throw in a few of his less rude jokes in just to earn him some credit and it seemed to be working. After just a few clicks of talking Jazz seemed to had earned the respect of the senators who turned their attention back to Optimus.

'I have to say Optimus this young Gamma is a delight. We can't make it official here but I can say that you will have Sim Fur's support. I do recommend however that you take my advise and find him a temporary career up here to prove to the rest of society he can function with us.'

Optimus looked pleased with the result.

'I thank you for your support. I promise that I will find Jazz a career that he would both enjoy and profit from.'

Jazz smiled as the senators seemed pleased with what they had come for. However the happy mood was cut short when a cold deep voice suddenly interrupted their peaceful chat.

'Allowing Gamma's into the city? Such nonsense. Why does it not surprise me that someone like you my dear Optimus came up with such a silly idea.'

The senators along with Optimus looked up to see where the voice came from. Jazz followed their gaze and his Spark began to shiver within him once again when he saw the senator of Kaon walk over towards them with a smug expression. Jazz could feel his whole frame tremble as Senator Prixus walked over holding a tall glass of Energon in his claw like hands. The Sim Fur senators looked angered whilst Optimus remained calm. Once senator Primus stood amongst them one of the Sim Fur senator's sneered.

'Why aren't I surprised that you Lord Prixus would oppose of this idea. I'm surprised you even bothered to show up.'

Prixus smirked and took a sip of his Energon before replying.

'I just came to see what all this nonsense was about. I thought my CPU had crashed when I heard that our Lord Prime wanted to bring those lower world abominations up into our majestic cities! But imagine how amusing it was when I discovered that he was actually serious! I was even more amused when I heard he found a Gamma wrentch and brought it bcak to the Grand Halls. It wouldn't surprise me if he just keeps it up here as a pet.'

As Lord Prixus began to laugh coldly Jazz could not help but glare angrily at this rude Omega Supirior. Did that mean that he just came here to mock and laugh at Optimus Prime's mission to change the laws about the rank and class of Cybertron? Did that mean he wasn't going to offer the support of Kaon city? Was he here just to waste Optimus Prime's time with insults and taunts? As Prixus continued to smirk and sip his high grade Energon whilst ignoring the Sim Fur senators started to throw their own insults at him Jazz looked up at Optimus surprised to see that he was calm as always. Was he expecting this? It still wasn't fair that Optimus went to all this trouble to get a cities support to only have one of the senator's laugh in his face about it. What kind of mech would do that to a kind mech like Optimus.

Optimus sighed but stepped forward to speak with Lord Prixus in a calm and friendly manner. He was indeed trying his best to make a good impression in front of this rude and cruel mech he wasn't going to show any anger at him no matter what he said.

'I am saddened that you are not offering your support but I am still glad that you could visit Lord Prixus.'

Lord Prixus looked at Optimus and sneered.

'I still can't believe that the Matrix chose you of all mechs. I mean you want those lower class creatures to live among us as equals? It will never happen.'

'This isn't just about having the Gamma's live with us. It's also about allowing other mechs and femmes of other classes having the freedom to do what they wish. To have the job they want, to bond with the mech they love and to be with other mechs of other classes as equals.'

The Kaon senetor laughed.

'Please my dear Optimus Cybertron has enforced this rule since it's birth. You may be Prime but even you can't change such a thing.'

Jazz was starting to get angry at this mech and the fear within him that this mech had caused was starting to vanish. Knowing it could get him into trouble he stepped forward and, trying his best not to snarl, answered back in Prime's place.

'Yes he can!'

His voice suddenly caught the attention of Lord Prixus and when those dark ruby red optics looked right at him Jazz suddenly felt that fear coming back. Lord Prixus stared at him for a while. His optics took in every inch of his black and white frame, studying him carefully. The young Gamma felt a chill run through him as Lord Prixus continued to stare at him with an emotionless face. It felt incredibly disturbing and for a moment Jazz thought he was actually going to kill him. However he just smirked and stepped closer to Jazz making the poor thing step back. Lord Prixus towered over him and smirked.

'My, my...is this the little Gamma you were telling us about?'

Jazz gulped and tried to find the courage to not show any fear but it wasn't working. Thankfully Optimus managed to get near them and gripped Jazz's shoulder in a protective way. He even sounded like he was trying to protect Jazz as he spoke.

'Yes Lord Cortexion. This is Jazz and he is from the Iacon slums.'

Lord Cortexion just stared down at Jazz not caring what Optimus had told him. Even though Optimus was with him Jazz still felt afraid being around this mech. The Kaon senator bent down till he was optic level with Jazz and placed an finger under his chin and with amazing strength was able to force Jazz's face up with that single digit. Having him so close was making his Spark pulse extremely fast out of fear.

'My for a Gamma he is certainly...appealing to the optics. I'm impressed that he even had the nerve to answer back at me. So my dear Optimus...where did you meet this delightful little thing?'

Optimus answered and pulled Jazz back a little, much to Jazz's relief.

'I met him down in the slums. When I was looking for someone he offered to assist me-...'

'The slums? What were you of all mechs doing in a place like that? Further more you decided to trust this mech you've never met before? Why does that not surprise me? I mean you have a had a history with mechs you never met before and you decide to trust them without even giving it a second thought. Look what happened after that. I see that you've learned nothing from your past experiences.'

Optimus suddenly looked like someone had slapped him in the face and for once he looked speechless. Even the Sim Fur senators looked at one another with questioning looks. Jazz was puzzled by what he meant. Had something happened that he wasn't aware of? What did he mean by all that? Before Optimus could even say anything there was yet another loud voice booming across the great hall.

'His Lord Alpha Trion has returned! Show your respects!'

The hall suddenly went quiet and everyone looked up. Jazz turned and to his surprise Optimus left his side without even saying anything. Before he could even think about following him he felt a cold hand grip his shoulder and a cold voice whisper in his audios.

'We will meet again...my dear Jazz.'

Jazz looked over his shoulder to see that Lord Prixus was now walking away. What did he mean by that? Why was he suddenly interested in him? Before Jazz could even think about answers for these questions he heard a loud commotion coming from the great hall's entrance. Looking past a few Alpha's he saw that Optimus was standing there alongside Ultra Magnus. In front of them stood an elderly Omega Superior mech who looked extremely old yet grand. Even though he looked ancient he stood proud and tall. Was he really Optimus Prime's creator. He wasn't alone. Standing next to him was another old Superior mech who didn't look like a snob but looked gruff and battle-worn. On Alpha Trion's other side was a younger Omega Superior who looked extremely charming and very pretty with all his bright colours decorating his armour. Who were they? Family? Friends? Some Alpha's near Jazz were talking out loud.

'I knew Alpha Trion was trying to find a suitable mate for his son. My isn't he adorable? He would make a fitting mate for him wouldn't he?'

'They would make a perfect couple. Just look at him. He's so young and I bet he would produce him a fine Sparkling.'

'I'm so jealous. How did Alpha Trion find such a beauty?'

'Optimus Prime is so lucky to have such a charming mate!'

Jazz looked up a little horrified. Mate? Him? Optimus? Looking back at Optimus he watched unknowingly horrified that Alpha Trion was introducing the young Omega Superior to both Optimus and Ultra Magnus as if he were a matchmaker. The young mech bowed politely and Optimus did the same. The young mech was indeed quite an optic catcher and he looked so very appealing that even Lord Cortexion was giving him some looks. They then began to talk and all five of them left Jazz's sight to go talk somewhere in private. As they disappeared Jazz felt something in his Spark twitch painfully. Mech's all around him began to talk in an excited manner. As if they were happy to see that Optimus had met someone to meet his standards. But Jazz...he didn't feel happy at all. He felt...incredibly sad...upset...angry...miserable. Even though he was surrounded by so many mechs he felt so incredibly...lonely.