literature

Soldiering On

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Literature Text

"Kup, that was incredible". As always, Springer's optics light up as he looks at me. Hero worship for the bot who trained Optimus Prime, held his ground for days on end during the final battle in Iacon, the tough old coot who is too stubborn to die.

The warrior fresh from battle.

"Lad, you're too easily impressed. Back in my day..."

I begin to relate an old war story, and like human children, Springer and his team of Wreckers draw closer, to better hear the wisdom of the legend that is Kup.

I look into their optics as I begin a story I'm sure I used umpteen times and I see myself reflected in those blue lights. I see myself...and I despair.

I'm so tired. I've been fighting for so long. Longer than Prime, Grimlock, even Ironhide.

I've seen so much pain.

I was there when Alpha Trion died, when Megatron killed Sentinel. I'm haunted by Thunderwing's destruction. A thousand missions as leader of the Wreckers haunt me. The faces of those I trained, those I knew I was ensuring would either die or take a life themselves follow me everywhere.

I remember the day I lost all hope this war would end.

And this, this is the worst. They idealise me. Worship the ground I walk on. They see me as untouchable, unwavering. It's the greatest burden. Because it means I must fight. If I bow down, as my aching joints beg me to, they will lose hope. They need their idol. And so I kill myself a little each day. I keep it from them that their constant idolisation is destroying me.

I've ruined what Kup, so that they can drive themselves to kill or be killed.

Springer's the worst. He not only sees an icon, he sees a father. And so I must be both, and more, to him. But what tears me apart when I look at him is the certainty that I am his future. I will die in this fight. I'm certain of it. And Springer will see it as his duty to take up my standard. Become the hero of his generation. Fight the good fight. Pass it on to those that follow.

And he will forget. Forget the person he was. Forget what it means to be more than an image in someone's mind. He will let them eat him alive.

And his hope will die.

"You tired old man?"

"Aye. Springer, it's been a long day".

A grin, "Aren't they all". I try not to notice the slight mech fluid stain on his hand. "Want to join me for a quick one?"

No. "Course, lad".

He leads me down the hall. And as we enter the cafeteria, sound erupts. It is full of people. Optimus stands at the forefront, his optics smiling. Prowl is standing behind him, looking bored. Another casualty of this life, but he doesn't have the wisdom to realise it. Jazz, Tracks, even Grimlock is here, although the big soldier looks uncomfortable in the crowd. I can relate. Across the hall, a banner reads "Congratulations on your promotion".

I think I'd cry if I could

Springer slaps me on the back "Prime's wanted to push you up the rank for ages, but we held off till after a big win. Thought it'd be appropriate, ya know?"

His arm wraps around my shoulder, affectionate radiating off him, as Prime, whose calming presence heals all wounds, comes up to embrace me. I grin, my face alight

Please

All I want to do is sleep

Rest

Can't I rest?
Written for the December 09 IDW contest. Theme of Kup

Transformers owned by HASBRO
© 2009 - 2024 GWolf21
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Phenometron's avatar
Kup is a true veteran of war.