Rendezvous

by R0b0t

Summary:

Soundwave isn't one to take unnecessary risks.
But they weren't unnecessary.

Jazz, Blaster, and Soundwave have a secret place they go and see each other. There, they can be away from the cries of war and battle. There, it can just be the three of them and the music.

Chapter 1: Our Starry Sky

Summary:

Blaster and Jazz's whereabouts do not go unnoticed.

The canyon in the desert might have been cold to something as weak as a human, but to Soundwave, the temperature hardly mattered. He sat by the cliff's edge, legs dangling off the side with little care. Ravage lay by his side and Laserbeak perched on his shoulder. They brought some comfort while he waited alone in the barren landscape. 

He was increasingly aware of the passing of time. The clock in the corner of his vision ticked by, only a few more minutes until it would read oh-two-hundred. 

“ Calculated Time: Ten Minutes Thirty-Four Seconds, ” he thought. 

It wasn’t uncommon for the pair to be late. It was hard for all of them to sneak away undetected by their leaders. Which was why these rendezvous’ were so rare for the trio. There’d been a handful of times where even he couldn’t show. There was no greater hurt than staying at his base and knowing they had waited only for him to never show. They gave each other a fifteen-minute window to come in late, once those minutes were up the ones waiting would leave. 

His face fell to the cavern below, calculations running through his systems before looking back up again. He hoped this place would never see a battle. It’d ruin the sanctity of it. 

Ravage shifted beside him, stretching his legs before curling next to his master again. The larger absent-mindedly pat his head and his motor started running, vibrating the pebbles nearby. Even Laserbeak cooed, affectionately nudging a beak against the Decepticon’s head. 

He looked to the sky, and in his visor, he could clearly see the traffic lines amongst the stars. Each connection, each human-named constellation. 

The stars had never been something Soundwave found interesting. Like the others, he’d been surrounded by them all his life on Cybertron. To him, they were simply luminous spheres made of plasma that had died and reflected from his visor. Nothing extraordinary. 

“Yo, Soundwave!”
“Shut up, Jazz!”
“No one’s here except us, Blaster, chill out a little,” he playfully slapped his arm.

The bot turned to look behind him, seeing the two Autobots he’d been waiting for. He stood, his mini-cassettes shifting with his weight. Laserbeak flew toward Blaster’s shoulder, playfully swooping by the bot’s head. Ravage energetically leaped for Jazz, the two rough-housing among the rocks and sediments. It had taken some time, but his mini-cassettes had warmed up to the duo nicely. Surprisingly even Ravage, his loyalty to Megatron may have been great, but his loyalty to Soundwave was greater. With their spy programs off, the two mini-cassettes were able to happily enjoy the company of the Autobots. 

At least for now they could be friends.
On the battlefield, though…

The Decepticon felt the pull, the mechanisms in his chest tightening at seeing the four having fun. He would record the moment if he didn’t think Megatron would find the video. He couldn’t take risks, not with them. 

“Sounds, you ‘aight?” Jazz asked, looking up from the attention-hungry Ravage. 

The group approached and as they did Laserbeak and Ravage transformed back into their respective areas, giving the trio privacy. 

He liked looking at them.
They liked looking at him. 

Their bodies were imperfect. Scratches and dents from battles are still prominent throughout their casing, but they loved each imperfection. They knew where each of those defects were and noticed whenever a new one joined their battle-burdened bodies. 

“I Am: Fine,” Soundwave replied as the duo took his hands. 

Their heads found their way to each other, metal bonking metal. He could feel the ache in his chest growing, knowing these moments could only last for so long. He felt the tips of Blaster’s head push under his neck, finding a comfortable spot as he took his hands back and wrapped the two in his arms. They stood there under the stars for a few minutes, the silence accompanied by the light wind, dancing around the trio. At least when alone, they could have those minutes all to themselves. 

Jazz was the first to pull away. “Yo, c’mon, let’s do somethin’ fun,” he suggested. “We only got a few hours till sunrise,” he pointed out. 

Soundwave stared at the Autobot, once again, calculating. When he pulled away, those insignificant stars were caught in his visor. For the first time, Soundwave understood why humans were so mesmerized by them. He couldn’t hear the words his partner spoke, too enamored in the lights. 

He wanted to catch them. To hold them in his hands, to take this moment and put it somewhere safe. Somewhere war couldn’t touch. 

“Sounds?” Jazz waved a hand in front of his face, “didja freeze up? What’re you lookin’ at?”
“Looking: At You,” he replied, raising a hand to cup the Autobot’s face. 

Jazz’s engine roared, steam escaping through his vents, “I– I– well, uhm…” Any comeback died in his throat as Soundwave brought his forehead to where the Decepticon’s lips would be if he had any to speak of. The Autobot didn’t think it was possible for his knees to feel weak, not like this, and yet they did. 

The faux kiss didn’t last long before Soundwave turned to Blaster, giving him his own weak-in-the-knees sign of affection. For a Decepticon that had hardly known gentle touch, he gave it freely and with great care. 

The rest of the night was spent with their music playing at a low volume and dancing with each other. They swung between arms, even partaking in a breakdance battle, which Jazz easily won. 

It was hard to imagine that they would be enemies once more when the sun rose. Together, under the safety of the night, they hardly had time to worry about war or battle. They didn’t exist. There was no room for them in between the smiles, the music, and the love. 

 

—

 

“And where are you two going?” 

Strong, crossed arms blocked Jazz and Blaster’s path from the exit of the Autobot base. Optimus Prime stood in front of them, tall and intimidating. 

“Uh, just going out for a night patrol,” Blaster said.
“– for a walk,” Jazz spoke over him.
They looked at each other in fear at the mess-up.
“Going on a patrol,” Jazz corrected.
“– that is also a walk,” Blaster added. 

Prime’s eyebrow raised.

“Heh, yeah, you know us, Prime,” Jazz punched his shoulder, “always go-getters.”
The two began to inch their way around the side of the leader.
“Yeah!” Blaster smiled, “gotta keep an eye out for those Decepti-skums!” An awkward laugh followed. 

The two waved their leader off as they darted out of the exit, leaving Prime even more suspicious. He’d been aware of their nightly outings, finding no fault at first. Their partnership wasn’t unknown among the Autobots. He had simply assumed the two sought solitude amongst each other. His suspicion had only peeked when Bumblebee had brought it to his attention. According to him, the two traveled far out from the base, much further out than necessary. 

The smaller Autobot had only noticed himself by accident. They had been leaving once, and Bumblebee swore he heard the name of one of a Decepticon leave their mouths. That alone wouldn’t have been suspicious except for when they returned. He had been waiting for them, and just like earlier, their stories didn’t match up. They stumbled over words and excuses before sliding past with awkward laughs. 

Which was why he had to tell Prime something was going on. What if Megatron had done something to them? They had to do something to see where they were going. 

“You see what I mean?” the small Autobot asked, “suspicious right?”
Prime nodded, arms uncrossing, “indeed.”
“So… what now?”

Prime closed his eyes and thought for a moment. He didn’t want to ruin any trust he had with the two. If they followed and were discovered it’d place an awful dynamic amongst the team. But safety came first. If Decepticons were involved, it couldn’t be good. 

“Bumblebee,” he said, “rollout. We need to get to the bottom of this.”

The two transformed and followed behind Jazz and Blaster at an unsuspecting distance. They drove what must’ve been an hour or two at most away from the base. They hid behind a rock wall, watching silently as their comrades idly chatted. 

“Prime, what’re they doing all the way out here?” Bumblebee asked.
“I don’t know, I don’t know,” Prime responded. 

They almost suspected their suspicion had been misplaced before spotting a familiar plane in the air. 

“It’s Soundwave!” Bumblebee shouted, “they’re being attacked! We have to help them–”
“Stay still,” Prime commanded, holding him back.

Soundwave landed beside the duo, almost immediately knocked to the ground in their hugs and smiles. The trio’s laughter rang throughout the land, echoing into the Autobot’s hiding spot.

Bumblebee stared in horror, “I can’t believe– !” 

The bot’s exclamation was cut-off. Prime had his hand over the smaller’s mouth, silencing him. Muffled, Bumblebee continued to wave his arms in exasperation. 

“Quiet, Bumblebee,” Prime commanded.
He stilled. Prime removed his hand.
Bumblebee whispered, “Prime, they’re traitors. What’re we going to do?”

Prime stared at the trio from behind the rock wall until he said, “nothing. We do nothing.” He stood and turned, leaving the trio and set on making his way back home. 

Bumblebee’s mouth hung open, “nothing?” he whisper-shouted. “B– But, what do we tell the others or– or–”

“We won’t tell the others. Don’t tell anyone about what you saw here tonight, Bumblebee. That’s an order.” Prime transformed after stating the order and rolled out. 

Bumblebee stood in shock, still confused. He sent another look at the trio. Seeing their hands linked, the way their chests buzzed… conflicted his feelings. His jaw locked, keeping himself quiet as he transformed and raced ahead to join his leader.

Notes:

Hi~
I hope this was good! This was my first time writing something for Transformers. I'm new to the characters, so I really hope this was enjoyable.
N e ways, poly musical robots ftw ! ! Woot Woot ! ! !

Chapter 2: Shift in the Stars

Summary:

Soundwave is forced to make a decision

The sound of war cried from around Soundwave, he could hardly hear anything other than the light-blasting bullets through the air. Perhaps if the battle wasn’t raging on he’d be more inclined to seek out the two bots he was so fond of. The trio hardly faced each other, they stayed as far as possible to avoid any collisions with each other. It was necessary. If they collided on the battlefield… it was something none liked to think about. 

His attention was forced elsewhere as he felt a bullet graze his arm. He hid behind a rock formation, prepping the shoulder cannon. Starscream flew overhead, Skyfire close behind him. The two plane’s motors deafened the field momentarily. No bullets sounded as they flew by then like a pop! the noise came back. He peered over the rock, fired a shot blindly into the crowd of enemies below. He ducked as bullets fired back, all around him.

The Decepticons were losing this battle. He wouldn’t be surprised if Megaton called to retreat soon. Until then, he had to follow orders. 

Starscream landed beside an adjacent rock, narrowly avoiding an attack from Skyfire. He sent Soundwave an almost disgusted look. “What are you looking at me for?” he shouted, angrily. 

Paying him no mind, Soundwave positioned himself above the rock, pointing his weapon at the battlefield. Then, he saw a chance. 

Optimus Prime, wide-open, no cover.
“ Chance Hit: 98%
Chance Fatal: 56% ”

Further calculations would conclude that Megatron would be happier with a wounded Prime than a dead one. His leader wanted the glory of bringing an end to him, so any damage he inflicted now would only advance that dream. 

He lined the cannon up, zeroed in on the Autobot leader. He would’ve taken the shot if his view hadn’t been obstructed. Jazz jumped in front of Prime. The visor on Soundwave’s face flashed with red warning signs, covering his field of view. 

“ Chance Hit: 99%
Chance Fatal: 98%
Do Not Hit! Warning! Do Not– ”

“You have the shot!” Starscream shouted, “shoot! Shoot!”

The Decepticon felt his inside burning. Suddenly, the battle wasn’t so loud. All he could see was Jazz’s visor, the stars still somehow caught in it. He slid back down, “Weapon: Jammed. Trigger Malfunction,” he said.

“Get out of my way, then! I’ll do it!” Starscream shoved Soundwave to the side and fired his own shots at the Autobots. “No!” he shouted, “that one got in the way!”

Soundwave poked out from his hiding place, terror coursing through him. He’d known the risks, he’d taken precautions–

He wasn’t prepared for the scene before him. Soundwave stared, almost unbelieving. Blaster cradled Jazz in his arms, the other Autobots forming a quick defense circle around the two as Ratchet drove up and quickly placed Jazz inside his cargo hold. He couldn’t see Jazz’s injuries, but from Blaster’s expression alone, he knew it was bad. 

“Decepticons, retreat!” Megatron’s voice yelled over the battlefield. “Grab the Energon and retreat!” 

The group took off immediately, even Soundwave. It’d be impossible to check on either of them as of now. Though, he so desperately wanted to look back and meet Blaster’s eyes. 

 

Back at the base, the Decepticons were fuming over their loss. None more than their leader, Megatron. “Only five Energon boxes?!” he roared. His anger turned to Starscream, “you! If you had stayed on Skyfire’s tail we would’ve had more! You’re a coward, Starscream!” 

The Decepticon deflected, pointing at Soundwave. “He’s the one you should be mad at! He had a perfect shot at Optimus and didn’t take it!” 

Soundwave ignored the allegations, instead standing still, awaiting Megatron’s response. 

“What?! Soundwave, is this true?” Megatron shouted.
“Weapon Malfunction. And I Was: Distracted,” Soundwave reported plainly. His face turned slightly to suggest Starscream. 

His mouth dropped, shocked. “What?! Me, a distraction?! I am not! I am Starscream and I–”
Megatron punched his subordinate suddenly, sending him flying into the nearby wall. “Leave us, Soundwave,” was all he said as his eyes zeroed in on the bot. 

Soundwave nodded, not taking any care to spare Starscream another glance as he exited the room.

 

—

 

He didn’t have to know that he’d be expected to meet tonight. It was much earlier than the times before, but it was necessary. For his own mentality, he at least needed to know Jazz was okay. He landed at their spot, frowning when the red he was hoping to see was absent. 

His visor scanned the landscape, Blaster’s silhouette being sought for amongst the desert’s emptiness. Finding nothing, he stood, unsure of what to do next. 

Jazz had to be okay. He had to be. It’d be impractical to sneak into the Autobot base just to see him. It would be an unnecessary risk. Because Jazz was okay. He repeated the thought as if he could will it to be true. The cons of leaving outweighed the pros, but… it was Jazz. It wouldn't be the first time he’d spied in on the Autobots. The only difference would be this was personal. He just needed to see Jazz, to see that he was as okay as he told himself he was. 

The worst possibilities ran through his mind. 

Jazz, lying on the table.
Visor broken. Arms torn. Wires exposed.
Chest open. His parts lying on the table as their med tried to fix what he could.
Bits and bolts lying out… oil dripping from the table. 

His chest tightened, fingers dug into the palms of his hands as they fisted to his side. He needed to see him. Needed to–

Red. 

He looked up as Blaster came into view, stepping out of the shadows, expression solemn. With more urgency than he meant to show, Soundwave met the Autobot halfway. His hands landed on Blaster’s arms, tension evident in both. 

Blaster’s eyes slowly looked up to meet his, his frown turned up into a faux smile before falling again. He buried his head into his partner’s chest. No tears, just fatigued. His partner held him close, arms wrapped around him, somehow warm. He rubbed his back causing a slight engine rumble, similar to a purr, to expel from the Autobot. 

The two sat on the sand, Blaster finding his space in Soundwave’s arms, eyes closed.

“How Is: Jazz?” Soundwave asked nearly a whisper. 

Blaster stilled, not bothering to look up. “He’s fine, a little beat up. Won’t be going anywhere soon.” His head fell onto Soundwave’s chest, unable to deliver any more details. Whether that be purposefully or if his emotions withheld that information, neither knew. Silence covered the desert, even the coyotes’ yips that were often heard in the night were absent.

“He wanted to come tonight,” Blaster cut the silence, “to see you.”
If Soundwave had a mouth that would’ve made him smile.
“I told him not to. Made him stay.”
That was for the best.

“He Is: Kind,” Soundwave huffed. Perhaps too kind. Too kind for someone like him. His thoughts crumbled when he felt the bot in his arms begin to shake. “Blaster?” he pulled away, repositioning to straddle in his lap. “What Is Wrong: Blaster?” he cupped the barely taller’s cheeks in his hands. “Tell Me.” It came out as a demand, though he hadn’t meant it to. If it bothered Blaster he didn’t show it.

“What are we going to do, Sounds? I can’t…” Soundwave’s thumb circled his cheek, wiping away any falling tears. It hurt to see the normally so happy, cheerful expression crumbling before him. “We’re partners at night and our friends try to kill each other during the day. I don’t know if I could… If you die… or if Jazz dies,” his comment died in his throat. His breath was shaking as he leaned into Soundwave’s palm. “I don’t know, Sounds. I just wish you were with us.” 

His thumb paused.
“I know we said not to talk about the war or anything here, but,” Blaster’s eyes met his visor. “Do they even make you happy? Don’t you think you’d be happier with us?” 

Soundwave thought for a moment, calculating his relationships. 

Megatron was strong and powerful. They both believed humans and this planet to be insignificant, except for the Energon reserved here. They both sought to return to Cybertron, their home, to bring it back to its former glory. He’d believed strongly that Megatron’s tactics were the best to bring that goal to success.  He would not consider Megatron a friend, but he was formidable. His devotion to Megatron only diminished in the presence of his partners. But was it respect or fear that governed his loyalty?

His mini-cassettes were like family, probably the closest things to it. 

Anyone else… he didn’t care much for Starscream. Shockwave he could consider a friend, but the war had led to apathy toward his comrade's deaths. If one were to die, he seriously doubted it would cause the same soul-crushing feeling in his hardware that this event did. 

He’d once been so definite of the Decepticon cause, but now he found his faith faltering. The humans and life on this planet were trivial. They were nothing more than numbers and wasted space. He had a hatred for mankind that he couldn’t quite pinpoint when or why it had begun.

The Decepticons did not make him happy. Happiness was not something that mattered. It was not in their equation to succeed at their goal. It did not matter. 

“They: Do Not,” he answered. “And I: Do Not Know,” he paused, “I: Do Not … Understand.”
“Then let us show you,” Blaster pleaded. “There’s more than just fighting in the day and the stars at night. Come with me. Come with me to the Autobots.” 

Soundwave kept calculating more sequences and formulas in his head. “The Percent Of Your Faction Accepting Me Is: 2.3474936638888888%”
“They’ll learn,” Blaster urged, “they’ll learn to trust you. Just like you learned to trust Jazz and me,” he squeezed his hand.

Soundwave looked toward the ground. “It Will: Be Difficult,” Soundwave whispered. He’d grown accustomed to the Decepticon’s way of life, their behavior. The change would be drastic, he had only just begun to give and receive affection from his partners. How much would be expected of him from the Autobots? His shoulders tensed. 

Would they ask him to battle for his right to remain?

“Please,” Blaster asked, desperate, “try.”
“I Do Not Think This Is A ‘Try’ Decision.” 

Years of his life had been devoted to the Decepticons, to Megatron. If he betrayed them there would be no going back. This decision had to be final unless he wanted to add to his list of risks. Blaster’s lip quivered, breaking the bot’s equivalent to a heart. 

“I don’t know what else we can do.”

Soundwave knew it would be impossible to convince them to join the Decepticons. Not that he would want them on their side. He wouldn’t like to think about the methods Megatron would put them through to prove their loyalty. 

He almost winced at the look in Blaster’s eyes. His throat closed as he tried to quell the tortuous gnawing at his insides. 

“Okay,” he said.
“Okay?”
“I Will Go With You,” he stated.
“You will?”
“I Will.”

Blaster stood, taking Soundwave’s hand and helping him stand. “You’ll love it. I know you will.”
Soundwave’s only response was a robotic hum. 

He followed Blaster, his partner’s chest expelling soft music to calm the tension. Before meeting him and Jazz, he’d never thought to play music just for the joy of it. His music was played with purpose, not for fun. It had been them that showed him that ‘fun’ was purpose enough. 

The two took their time walking to the base, not bothering to transform. Their hands held together like adhesive as they walked through the desert. Perhaps an hour or two passed, neither cared to keep track of the time. It was all they had now, time. 

Soundwave could see the light from his new home bouncing off sanded walls around a corner. His footsteps slowed to a halt a few feet from the bend. This was a bad idea, this wouldn’t end well. It felt wrong despite feeling so right. 

He wanted to be with them– wanted to always be by their sides.
But the other Autobots… they were annoying, they were obnoxious.
Optimus. He nearly shot him this morning. 

It didn’t make sense. 

A squeeze of his hand brought him back. “Hey, it’s okay, dude! We’re together in this,” Blaster promised. He placed an encouraging kiss on the side of his head. “Wait here. Let me warm ‘em up for ya,” he said. “Hey, and try to look friendly when you step out, okay? They’ll love that!” 

Soundwave was about to protest, but Blaster had already run off toward the lights. He stood, uncomfortable, behind the rock as he waited. This was a bad idea, its success rate was so small that it was almost laughable. He’d be lucky if they didn’t shoot him on sight. Maybe the Decepticons hadn’t noticed his absence yet? He could still leave… but Blaster would be upset. 

He groaned internally, he never should’ve gotten involved with the likes of Autobots. Thanks to those two he cared . He cared about their lives, their safety. He cared enough to make unnecessary risks. Because they made him care . 

Disgusting.
He shuddered. 

Then he heard murmuring voices and the sound of multiple heavy-metal steps on the ground approach. 

“He’s a little shy, so just… be open-minded, okay?” Blaster urged his friends.
“ Shy? ” Soundwave’s visor narrowed with suspicion.
“Alright! C’mon out!” Blaster shouted.

He wasn’t sure if his approach was going to be effective. But, from his calculations, this would seemingly be the least threatening. Soundwave stepped out from the wall of rock with his hands raised. Somehow his voice sounded even more robotic than normal as he shook his hands in the air and an attempt at a sing-song tone, said:

“Jazz hands~”

Notes:

Ahhhh
This wasn't meant to be multi-chapter, but now I have everything planned and tucked away in my head and I had to get it out or else my noggin' would explode soooo...
Hope you guys enjoy the next two chapters I have planned!

Chapter 3: Supernova

Summary:

There’s only so much change Soundwave can handle.

The Autobot base was full of whispers as the group discussed their options. Blaster stood beside Soundwave, left out of the conversation due to perceived bias. The duo stood a few feet from each other, not yet accustomed to being close under the watch of others. As always, Soundwave’s expression was unreadable. He stood like a soldier should, straight, forward, and attentive to his surroundings. Blaster was a stark contrast, he leaned against the wall and idly tapped his fingers against his crossed arms. Neither spoke a word, but each sent careful glances at Prime as the discussion continued. 

Soundwave tried to remain indifferent. If he wasn’t allowed to stay, so be it; if he was, so be it. He would not allow himself to be swayed emotionally before a decision was made. It would be silly to get his hopes up. 

Once again, Blaster was in contrast. He hoped and closed his eyes, willing the universe to persuade his team into trusting Soundwave. He wanted so badly for Soundwave to stay, if not for him, for Jazz. The smaller Autobot had been almost in hysterics when he’d woken up on Ratchet’s table. Blaster could still hear the fear in their voice when he’d asked who shot him, where was Soundwave, was he okay. Question after question rolled out like an avalanche before he powered down, exhausted. He was lucky no one else heard his worried queries. 

The decision was made an hour later, Blaster had just about fallen asleep on the wall while Soundwave still stood. Somehow, during the discussion, the two had inched closer. Blaster's head rested on Soundwave's shoulder. He was only woken by the slight jostle of Soundwave's shoulder as Prime approached. 

The decision was made. Soundwave would be allowed to stay, but there would need to be precautions. It would have to be handled quickly, there in the front room, among the majority of Autobots. Whether curiosity led that decision or not, neither knew. They would take what they could get, though. 

Soundwave remained silent as the Autobots' med placed restrictors on his systems. Any methods he might use to record were disabled. His mini-cassettes would need to be monitored and given restrictions as well. Though, that would need to be something Soundwave applied to them himself. He didn’t enjoy the process and didn’t like the skeptical looks the others shot him. 

The Autobot base made him uncomfortable. It wasn’t anything special, which was what he specifically didn’t like. It was too cozy to be a base. He kept his thoughts to himself, remaining expressionless as Ratchet finished the process. 

The med closed his chest, “he’s all good, Prime.”

Soundwave stood from where he’d been lying, his hand meeting Blaster’s as the Autobots dispersed. The restrictors made him feel heavy like weights were pulling him down from the inside. He found rather quickly that he couldn’t read the waves in the air either, finding it impossible to read the minds of his new allies. 

The leader nodded, “so,” he began. “Would you like to talk now or later?”
Soundwave hesitated to answer, unsure which was the correct answer. 

“Take your time,” Prime responded for him. “You have only just arrived, after all.” His attention shifted to the body beside him. “Blaster,” Prime’s tone called for his immediate attention. “You and I need to have a talk as well.”

“Now, sir?” Blaster asked, hoping the answer would be similar to what Soundwave’s was.
“Preferably,” Prime said, which actually meant ‘yes.’ 

Blaster sighed, he’d hoped to show Soundwave around, but it seemed that’d have to wait. He turned to his partner, offering a smile. “It’s okay,” he said, “go check on Jazz. He’ll be glad to see you. Can you download the map or did those restrictors jam up your data-collecting ability?” 

“They Did, But I Will Find My Way,” he stated.
“Alright, just ask around if you need help, okay? I’ll be there as soon as this is done.” 

They held hands until distance broke their touch. Soundwave watched as Blaster walked with Optimus, seeing his expression turn weighty under the leader’s presence. 

Alone again, Soundwave made his way through the compound. He ignored the looks other Autobots shot him. He ignored the whispers and uncomfortable silences. His focus remained solely on finding Jazz. The task would be easier if he could still read minds. At least then he could have a wavelength to follow. But he’d always managed to complete his tasks by himself, so why would this be any different? 

He ambled around, peeking into rooms, until he finally spotted the blue speed car on a table, lying on his back. 

“Jazz?” he spoke up.
The Autobot looked up at the sound of his name. “Sounds? What are you doing here?” He pulled his body up.

The med room was bleak in atmosphere, but it seemed to brighten when Jazz and Soundwave’s eyes met. The moment was cut short when Soundwave was shoved aside from the entrance.

Ratchet stomped toward Jazz, expression stern. “Hey! No way! What do you think you’re doing?” Ratchet pushed the bot back down to the table easily. “Just because you’re feeling better doesn’t mean you’re ready to move.”

Jazz looked between Ratchet and Soundwave, shocked and confused. “Uhh, you’re not mad Sounds is here?” he asked.
Ratchet grunted in response, “he says he joined us Autobots. But you’re who I’m mad at. Stop trying to get up! You’re not repaired enough!” 

Jazz waved a hand, dismissing him, “oh, please. I’m good to roll again.”
The comment was met with a cold expression from the med-bot. 

Soundwave approached cautiously and stared, making quick calculations of the damages. Soundwave could fully see the full range of damage to his partner’s body. His outer casing was fine, only scratched and dented. It was internally that the problems lied. Jazz’s chest was open, multiple parts were still fringed from the shots Starscream had fired. It wasn’t nearly as bad as he had assumed. “Are You: Okay?” 

Jazz laughed, “oh, pssh, yeah! I’m fine, just a little–” A small wrong move from his arm made the bot clutch the injured arm. 

“You Are: Not Okay,” Soundwave stated.
“Yeah, I am, this is–”
“Do Not Lie.”

His tone refused to give Jazz any room to argue.
He sighed, “yeah… I’m a bit banged up,” he admitted.

Soundwave tensed, he would not have described their current state as ‘a bit’ banged up. Though, to him, perhaps any amount would be too much. He found himself kneeling beside the table, clutching the bot’s hand. He wasn’t sure how to word the feelings he experienced. He didn’t like seeing Jazz like this, but that hardly encompassed the full range of emotions. 

“What Can I Do For You?” he asked.
Ratchet responded, “You can make him stay still!”
Jazz shot a look, “hey, can you leave? Tryna have a moment here.”

Ratchet looked between the two and rolled his eyes, “save a life and I get kicked out of my own office. No respect here.” The comment was harsh, but there was a hint of a joke behind it. He shot Soundwave a look before leaving, “make sure he stays down , okay?”

“Affirmative,” Soundwave responded. 

The door shut behind Ratchet as he left, leaving the duo alone. The room was eerily quiet. The only noise was the occasional clicks and whirs from Jazz’s open chest. 

“So… you’re with the Autobots now?” he smiled, hopeful.
Soundwave hesitated before responding. “I Am: With You,” he answered.

Jazz grinned and tried to sit up only to be met with Soundwave’s hands on his shoulders, resisting movement.
Soundwave pushed him down, “Your Med Said–”
“Just for a second,” he urged, squeezing his hand. “Just one second.”

The request was all but a whisper, but it held so much urgency in his tone. Soundwave couldn’t deny him. The pressure on Jazz’s shoulders slackened as he sat up fully. 

“I just thought this would be easier if I was sitting up,” Jazz smiled. His hand reached behind Soundwave’s head, pulling him down. Their foreheads met before Jazz’s lips met the empty space of Soundwave’s mouthplate. The two melted into the reunion, the fans in Jazz’s chest whirred loudly, drowning out any other sounds. The lack of lips in that moment meant very little, the gesture was all that was necessary to make Soundwave’s chest thump with bass. 

When they pulled apart Jazz smiled, “I’m glad you’re with me, Soundwave.”
And for the second time, the former Decepticon melted into the other’s arms.

Minutes turned to hours before Blaster joined the duo in the med room. His expression had been cold, slightly distant before being greeted by their warm faces. The trio talked well into the morning. Blaster and Jazz confided how ecstatic they were at Soundwave being here with them. Laughter and jokes were told about all the fun things they could do together. Music, oh the music they would create. Everyone would love him once they heard his music. Who could resist his charm when he was working a sound system?

Blaster and Soundwave had spent so much time in the room that they'd fallen asleep next to Jazz. Soundwave's head on Blaster's shoulder while the red one's hand loosely draped around his lower back, keeping him close. 

The med-room door opened, bringing Soundwave to life. He looked up to see Prime, who jutted his head to the side, a gesture to follow. As quietly as possible, Soundwave unwrapped himself from Blaster's arm and followed the Autobot leader. 

"I'm sorry to take you away from them," Prime said. "But this is important. Blaster and I already shared a short conversation about this, but it's important I speak to you too." The Autobot leader needed to be certain of his team’s safety. Second chance or not, Soundwave was still a threat until he could prove his loyalty. They continued walking down the hallway until Prime asked his question.

“What do you plan to do about Megatron?”
“He Will Be Handled,” Soundwave replied vaguely.
Prime paused, thinking carefully. “I know this change will be hard,” he said, “but I need to know how. I need to protect the other Autobots. You can understand that, can’t you?”

Soundwave thought, thinking back to Jazz and Blaster before nodding. He’d have to prove he could be trusted. He wasn’t oblivious to his position right now. Anything he did or didn’t do could be reflected to his partners. To make things easier on them, he complied. 

A few of his restrictors were removed so he could prove his loyalty.
He called Megatron through his systems, collecting back at the Decepticon base. 

“ Soundwave, where are you? ” Megatron’s voice echoed in his head. “ Why can’t I see anything on my screen? ”
“Autobot Base: Collecting Data,” he lied. “In Order To Infiltrate Their Ranks, I Was Given Restrictors. I Managed To Remove Only This One.”
“You did this without my orders?”
“It Was Necessary You Did Not Know Until Now.”

Silence was heard for a few moments before Megatron began to laugh. He delivered praise to Soundwave for being smart enough to infiltrate the Autobot ranks. The mission would be kept a secret between him and Soundwave alone. 

The call ended and Soundwave nodded to Optimus, “He Does Not Suspect Me.” Truthfully, it almost hurt to accept that he had lied to the leader who trusted him so completely. But it didn’t nearly as much as seeing Jazz on that battlefield. 

With that, Prime nodded, “welcome to the Autobots, Soundwave.”

 

—

 

His first few days were spent in silence, merely tolerating the other’s existence. He found no joy in interacting with them. Any attempt to communicate was met with the bare minimum effort in return. He did as requested of him, no questions asked. Carrying equipment, moving boxes, helping the moment he was asked. Not because of any compassion he had, simply because he didn’t wish to cause trouble for his partners. His motive was to stay and knew that pulling his weight would solidify his importance in their ranks. 

Though, sometimes, he was pulled from his menial tasks. Unable to resist the pull from his partners. For the first time, the trio was together under sunlight and clouds instead of the moon and stars. For the first time, they could look at each other in the day’s light without kicking up dust from the war around them. 

Once again, Soundwave had been kidnapped from his duties and forced to do something ‘fun’ with his partners. The concept was foreign and he quickly found that having ‘fun’ was a skill he severely lacked in. Today, he’d been pulled to an ocean to enjoy the water and beach activities typical to the flesh bags that inhabited the earth. 

“The humans left a net open when they ran away!” Blaster waved a hand. “C’mon, let’s play!”
“Why?” Soundwave asked the duo.
“Because it’s fun!” Jazz smiled. “C’mon, we brought a ball, too!”
“What Is The Purpose?”
“We hit it back and forth,” Blaster explained.

He tossed the ball to Soundwave, who caught it one-handed. He inspected it before throwing it over the net to where Jazz was. The car-bot insisted that he could be a team on his own, that he was fast and cool enough to win. The game wasn’t exactly how the humans played volleyball, but Soundwave was a quick learner. He watched how his partners moved and copied. He wasn’t sure if this was ‘fun’, but he liked seeing Jazz smile and dance each time he scored. 

“Boo-yah! In yo face!” Jazz gloated, throwing the ball so hard into the sand that it bounced. Somehow he even managed to moonwalk across the sand in victory. 

They couldn’t swim in the ocean, so the rest of the day was spent walking through the waves, hand-in-hands, or trying various other activities. Each activity seemed to only confuse Soundwave more, he sought a purpose behind each. He wondered if 'fun' was something he would have to adapt to. 

But, of course, change was never easy. There would always be friction and there would always be conflict. It was a commonality of war. One such exchange had occurred between Soundwave and the grumpiest of the Autobots.

Soundwave was not accustomed to sudden touch, let alone touch that came so readily from strangers. Gears had meant only to show a hint of uncharacteristic kindness, but the gesture was misinterpreted. A slap to Soundwave’s back, meant as encouragement during the bot’s work had startled him. 

“Good job, for a former Decepticon,” Gears had said before the interaction. 

In response to what he deemed a threat, Soundwave turned, shoulder-cannon pointing at his opponent. A crowd quickly formed between the two. Autobots on both sides keeping the two apart. Shouting and yells layered over top of each other, clouding Soundwave’s sensors. 

He’d never been one to panic, he was always so calculated, so sure of his responses. The shift from Decepticon to Autobot was strangling. It confused him more than he had told Blaster or Jazz. He’d kept his struggles to himself in favor of sparing them from worry. Though he regretted it at this moment. 

He distanced himself from the conflict, needing to escape the roaring and thunderous voices around him. He found a space near the back of the base and closed himself into a dark room. He lost count of how many times he heard Autobots calling for him. 

He only looked up when the door was opened and he saw Jazz’s visor and Blaster’s concerned eyes.

“Sounds, what happened?” they asked.
The door shut, the two kneeled in front of him.
“What happened?” Jazz asked again. 

Soundwave retold the events between glitched audio. His partners listened with concern.

“How are you feeling right now?” Jazz asked
“... I Am Tired,” he said. 

He was tired of everything, truthfully. Everything was different with the Autobots. No one plotted the demise of their comrades here, no one tried to overthrow their leader, secrets were hardly kept secrets for long. He’d grown so accustomed to solitude that being around others was uncomfortable. Signs of friendship were red flags because there had to be a motive, there had to be a secret behind those desires. It was hard to unlearn all the survival strategies that had kept him alive and on Megatron’s good side all these years. 

“We’re here,” Blaster promised.
“We aren’t leaving you,” Jazz’s arms wrapped around him.

Blaster’s arms wrapped around him from behind as Jazz took his place in Soundwave’s lap, facing the blue bot. The duo’s visors reflected into each other, red meeting blue creating a purple hue between the two. Blaster settled his head on Soundwave’s shoulder, his hold just a touch tighter. He wanted to help, wanted to do more than just this, but what else could he do? So, he held Soundwave together like glue to a finished puzzle. He hoped it would be enough.

Jazz raised a hand to hold Soundwave’s face and the former Decepticon met the touch with eagerness. He leaned into the hand, finding more comfort than he thought was deserving. Blaster murmured soft words of encouragement and comfort in his audio processors. Jazz continued to usher in the softest touch metal-to-metal could create. 

No words were shared, none were needed.
Words would only muddle the meaning behind the silent language their touch spoke.

An hour had passed before Jazz and Blaster left Soundwave’s side, almost surprised to see Gears waiting in the hallway. 

“How is he?” he asked
“He’s taking a stasis nap,” Jazz replied. “He said he’s real sorry, by the way.”
Gears huffed, “like that means anything.”

“C’mon, Gears, it was a misunderstanding,” Blaster shot back. His tone held just a hint of frustration. Friend or not, he didn’t like Gears’ tone; it sounded accusatory. He wasn’t the one who saw Soundwave’s reaction afterward. For him to so easily sideswipe through the apology made Blaster’s speaker fizzle and crack.

Jazz leaned against his side, a momentary distraction. “Yeah, I would’ve thought you two would get along, man.”

Gears narrowed his eyes, “me and a Decepticon get along? Did he mess with your circuits or something? Did you forget what they did to me?” The rage rolled off the short Autobot in droves, leaving the whole room tense and unsteady. “Once a Decepticon always a Decepticon,” he stated. 

“What about Skyfire?” Jazz shot back with a narrowed expression. “He’s been with us for a while and he was a Decepticon.”

Gears backtracked, stumbling over his words. “Oh, whatever! You know what I mean! And it’s not like Skyfire knew what he was doing. But him,” he pointed in Soundwave’s direction. “He knew, he knew what side he was on and he still fought.” His expression hardened, “you can’t expect all of us to forget what he’s done.” 

Blaster had grown tense, squeezing his fists to his side. “You don’t know what he’s been through,” he gritted out. “You don’t know what he feels– !” A hand on his shoulder silenced him. He turned, half expecting Optimus to be behind him, inspecting the growing aggression. Instead, it was Soundwave’s red visor that met his eyes. 

His jaw tightened, keeping his mouth shut as Soundwave walked past. 

Gears tried to look taller by puffing out his chest and crossing his arms as he approached. The shaking wouldn’t reside, however. “What? You think I’m scared of you now? I’m not some scared little– !”

“I Wanted To Apologize,” Soundwave spoke, “Properly.”
Gears tensed, “well… get on with it, then.”

Soundwave hesitated, not from a lack of preparedness, but from the tension alone. “I Am Sorry,” he said. “I Have Never Had To… Apologize Before,” he tried to explain. He wasn’t particularly fond of talking this much, but it seemed without a rational explanation Gears would continue to hold a grudge. “Autobot Ways Are: Different. I Am Not Accustomed To: Encouraging Pats,” the word came out dry. It was almost humorous. 

Gears seemed to meditate on the apology, letting it fester in his mind. His eyes darted around Soundwave’s visor, looking for any deception behind those lenses. The Autobot’s shoulders relaxed, “fine,” he stated. “I guess… I was a little hotheaded.” 

There was a scoff heard behind the duo. A look was shot behind the two as Blaster and Jazz whistled and rolled on their heels, feigning ignorance. 

Gears’ eyes narrowed before turning back to Soundwave. “I’m…” his lips thinned in annoyance before sighing, “fine, I’m sorry, too.” He wouldn’t go into detail, his pride wouldn’t allow him. “Just don’t point that cannon at me and we’re good, deal?” He offered his hand to shake. 

Soundwave looked at the hand then to his. “Offer: Accepted,” he said, ignoring the hand, and instead giving a light punch to the smaller’s shoulder.
Gears’ smile was forced as he lightly rubbed the spot with a laugh. “Heh, yeah,” was the last words he said before leaving. 

The trio was alone again.
Blaster and Jazz met Soundwave at the place he stood. 

“Don’t let him get to you, Gears is always like that,” Jazz said.
“Yeah, but that was really good, man!” Blaster smiled. He draped an arm around his partner’s shoulders. “Gears never accepts apologies that fast!” 

It was impressive. To get the grumpiest of the Autobots had been so quick to turn over was no easy feat.

Soundwave didn’t respond to their praises, preferring instead to lean into Blaster’s arms and hold Jazz’s hand. He knew there would be other encounters like this. There would always be more Gears’ in the world, full of mistrust. That didn’t particularly matter to him, though. 

Not when Blaster’s arm was around him, not when Jazz held his hand. As long as they were with him and knew he was good, that was all that mattered. Because they made him feel good, they made him feel safer, kinder. 

With them beside him, he could be someone they were proud of.
He’d make sure of that.

Notes:

Sorry that this one was a bit rushed. I hope you all still enjoyed the comfort and fun bits.

Chapter 4: Nebula

Summary:

Soundwave, Blaster, and Jazz work to gain the trust of their peers! Just in time, too, because Megatron has a surprise in store.

Notes:

Songs for the concert!
Funk Tribu - Phonky Tribu
Untouchable
THUNDERSTORM
Power Attack (Extended)

*Idk if transformers 'sleep' the same way people do, but just assume they're like, in a stasis sleep, reserving power or smth.

Blaster shot up from his sleep, looking wildly around the room. An arm around his waist slid to his lap, the body beside him groaned at the sudden motion. Blinking, his optics refocused in the dark and he could clearly see the blue body curled beside him. Shoulders relaxed, settling back to the place they were resting. It was always safer, always nicer when he could reserve his power with his partners beside him. 

A more petite body leaned over his side. “What’s the matter?” Jazz yawned. The smaller Autobot wasn’t sitting up for long before he too settled. His arms draped over the taller, his face lying against Blaster’s side. 

Blaster shook his head, maneuvering to better wrap an arm around Jazz. “Nothing, just a weird dream,” he sighed. 

“Wanna talk about it?” Jazz mumbled, obviously fighting sleep.
He smiled, rubbing Jazz’s shoulder, “no, I’m fine.”

As he would always be. No sense in worrying the ones he cared about, no sense in letting them see him troubled. His optics switched off, metal eyelids closed as he felt the duo shift closer. Even if he didn’t say anything, they seemed to know when he needed the comfort. He sunk into the feeling, the warmth they brought, the undeniable safety. He’d try his best to hold onto that feeling for as long as he could. 

Hours later, he woke up to find Soundwave had disappeared from his pot. Jazz stirred beside him, the smaller stretching awake, joints popping as he did so.

“Where’d Sound go?” Blaster nudged him.
“I dunno,” Jazz rubbed the spot under his visor, “check the… uhm.” He waved a hand vaguely toward the door. “The place,” he said, “you know.”
“Mhmm,” Blaster nodded, not knowing at all. 

He stood from his spot and exited the room. He looked around the halls for any noise, overly cautious. A few rooms away he could see a light slinking out from a crack in a door. He followed the light, standing beside the door, hiding from the light as he listened. 

Soundwave was definitely in the room. He was talking with Prime. Prime’s voice was as it always was, strong and demanding, but full of respect. 

“Gears may have forgiven you, but others might need convincing. I can only encourage them so much, it’s up to you to put in the effort to get them to trust you.”
“Yes, Sir,” Soundwave stated.
“I’ve already talked with Blaster and Jazz. They say you promised not to dig into their heads even before the restrictor was placed on you.”
“Yes, Sir.”
“Did you?”
“No, Sir.”
Prime was silent for a few moments, calculating something in his head. “You could have, though, couldn’t you?”
“Yes, Sir.”
“Why didn’t you? You could have received top intel and reported it to Megatron.”
Soundwave didn’t hesitate to respond, “Because I Promised.”

Blaster tried to stay as quiet as possible. Part of him knew he shouldn't be eavesdropping, especially on Prime. He just wanted to make sure Soundwave was okay. 

A few more words were shared between the two before their voices died and Blaster couldn’t hear anymore. He stepped closer, straining to hear before the door was thrown open and his balance was lost. He fell into Soundwave’s arms, meeting a slightly raised visor and the crossed arms of Prime. 

“Uhh,” he scrambled to stand. “There you are, Soundwave!” he smiled and moved quickly behind the bot. “C’mon, Jazz was looking for you,” he lied as he pushed him out of the room. “Bye, Prime! Always nice to see your face in the morning!” he waved goodbye as he quickly left. 

Once far enough away, Soundwave dug his heels into the ground, halting their motion. 

“Were You Eavesdropping?” he asked.
“What?” Blaster avoided his eye contact, “pssh, no, never. I–” he crumbled under his knowing gaze. “Okay, maybe a little,” he admitted. “I just wanted to make sure you were okay.”
The corners of Soundwave’s visor rose by just a hint. “I Am Fine,” he said, ensuring.
Blaster would have to take him at his word. 

“So,” Blaster continued, “what… what was that about?”

Soundwave remained quiet, thinking about how best to respond. “It Was In Relation To The Conflict From Yesterday. Prime Said I Need To: Gain Trust And Engage In Teamwork.” Soundwave’s shoulders fell. “I Do Not Know What Else To Do,” he ended. 

Blaster’s eyes darted around, eager to find a solution. “How about, uhh…” he tapped his fingers. “Oh! I got it! A concert, you, me, and Jazz can have a concert. They’ll love you after that,” he elbowed his partner. 

Soundwave’s visor narrowed in skepticism, “Are You: Certain?”
“I’m certain enough!” Blaster beamed. “C’mon, let’s grab Jazz and start getting ready!” 

Music blasted through the Autobot base. Deep bass and drums vibrated the walls, the noise echoed down every hall, bouncing and moving, rhythm like electricity. 

A stampede of steps echoed down the hall, following the noise. When the Autobots entered the main room, they were momentarily shocked by the scene before them. 

Blaster and Soundwave manned the DJ stand, each one lost in the music they made together. Jazz bobbed his head, foot tapping before he turned, seeing the others. Music continued to play as Jazz ran to his comrades, pulling each into the room. Whatever previous tasks they were working on, forgotten, as they were pulled into dance. 

Soundwave looked up from his records, seeing his new teammates enjoy the music made the corners of his visor lift. He spared a glance to his side, watching how focused Blaster became, seemingly one with the music. Blaster moved with the music even as he adjusted the controls. The way he moved, how he held so much energy, so much joy in that moment. Was it possible to love him more than he already did? Was this what he’d been missing out on? 

Waking up next to his partners, seeing their smiles in the daylight. No longer did the shadow of moonlight hide their faces, he could clearly see all of them. Stars were always welcome to dance among them, but clouds swirled around Jazz as he danced. It was amazing to see them so… free. There was no fear of war, no fear of attacks from around them. For those glorious moments under the wave of tempo and beat, it was just them. 

Lights shut off, strobe lights on.
Cheers from the crowd. 

Blaster hyped the crowd as the music intensified. Jazz did a good job of pulling everyone into the dances, even gathering a small dance circle at one point during the night. Soundwave shared a smile with his partner on the station. The former Decepticon even sang for one, singular song. The robotic voice mixed in so well with the bass drops. 

Jazz gestured for the two to join him on the floor. Blaster didn’t wait a second, easily throwing himself over the station and landing beside the smaller. The two danced and urged Soundwave to join. He paused before looking into the corner of the room, Prime leaned against the corner, carefully watching. A short nod and smile were shared. Rumble and Frenzy were deployed to the DJ station as Soundwave joined the hoard of dancing Autobots. 

Blaster and Soundwave weren’t nearly as good at dancing as Jazz was, but that hardly mattered to anyone. All that mattered was they were together. 

They took turns dancing individually and turning in each other’s arms. Flashing lights obstructed most of their faces, but those glimpses in between showed joy. 

Stepping in time, energy pulsing in the room, smiles, laughter, another bass drop.
Everything mixed and grooved, everything remixed and re-grooved, together. 

And as the trio leaned in, linking their hands together, sharing those three simple words, muttered softly so only they could hear, they could finally say to themselves. 

Together. 

 

—

 

The following day proved the dance had done what it was meant to do. Any of the Autobots that had suspicions were looking at Soundwave like he was one of them; which he was. He’d never had peers look at him with a gleam that wasn’t covered in deceit or malice. Trust had been gained, and as such, restrictors were removed. It was an odd experience to see others so keenly aware of his good habits. It even began to extend toward the mini cassettes. 

Rumble and Frenzy liked the attention, showing off their powers and boasting themselves. Oftentimes, followed by a snide remark toward the Autobots before being quickly retracted. Sometimes Soundwave could hear the two telling stories about the Decepticons. Silly moments and embarrassing stories about Starscream, sometimes even Soundwave himself. 

Though the most shocking of developments was the duo’s growing friendship with Blaster’s mini cassettes, Eject and Rewind. The four were often causing trouble together, pranking the Autobots when not pranking each other. Though, the quartet was often found laughing at old records. They set up a secret hideout just for them in the vents of the base. 

Frenzy pressed his play button and Starscream’s voice began to play. “One day I’ll rule over the Decepticons! And that Megatron–” Frenzy and Rumble mocked him as the recording continued. It gained a laugh from the other two. 

“Here’s a funny one,” Rewind smiled deviously as he began to play audio. It was Blaster’s voice, everyone scooted closer. His voice was barely audible, but from what they could tell, the Autobot was talking in his sleep. “Blaster,” Rewind had whispered, “what’re you dreaming about?” A long pause was heard before Rewind repeated himself, this time Blaster clearly said something about food followed by more shifting before the audio was cut off. 

The four’s laughter rang out through their hideout. 

Laserbeak found an unlikely friendship with Ramhorn, who he constantly rode upon. It was almost comedic how the two seemed to never separate. Laserbeak was always either enjoying a ride on the rhino bot’s back or sleeping. 

However, Ravage remained distant. He still preferred Soundwave’s company to the other Autobots. 

“C’mon, Ravage,” Jazz held his hand out, “you didn’t mind me before.”
Ravage held his head up, huffing as it strutted across the room, flopping down in the corner alone. 

Jazz pouted, he’d thought that most of the mini cassettes had warmed up to him! He was the fun one, after all! He was the one that let them do whatever they wanted, he was the one who snuck them extra bits of Energon or garbage to chew on. An elbow nudged his side. 

“Watch and learn,” Blaster winked. He knew a thing or two about cats after all! Steeljaw was perfectly kind, it just took mutual respect. He approached the sleeping cat-like Cybertronian with confidence. Though, it was quickly washed away the closer he got. He looked behind him at Jazz, only feeling slightly unnerved. His enthusiasm wavered and he began to hope that he wasn’t about to make a fool of himself. “Raa~vage,” he whisper-sang, “pspsps,” he offered his hand. His arm extended, half expecting a swat or hiss. Instead, Ravage sat up to meet his hand, a low engine-purr emitting from him. “Heh,” Blaster smiled in slight disbelief, “see? Nothing to–” 

He was cut off when the cat bit into his hand, nothing deep, just wanting to play. The unexpectedness caused the red Autobot to jump, Ravage locked on as Blaster comically yelped. 

“Get him off!” Blaster shook his arm.
Though, no help was offered, as Jazz was left laughing at the scene before him. 

Ravage only released when Soundwave entered the room. The black cat-like bot ran behind Soundwave, jumping to his shoulder as he scratched his chin. 

“Are You: Hurt?” he asked Blaster.
“Me? Pssh, no! Steeljaw gave worse bites when I first found him!” He said this while he rubbed the hand that had been bit.

On cue, Steeljaw appeared, sniffing the air before his eyes landed on Ravage. The two shared eye contact, seemingly in a private conversation before Ravage leapt from Soundwave’s shoulder to the floor. The two cat-like bots walked off to find a warm spot. 

Soundwave took Blaster’s hand in his, he looked up at the Autobot as he placed a small would-be kiss on the scratches. Tingles from the display of affection rushed through the bot’s servers, his fans were cast on as he struggled to find words. Then smaller arms wrapped around his waist, Jazz smiled up at him. 

“So I watched,” Jazz teased, “not really sure what I was supposed to learn.”
Flushed, Blaster covered his face, “shut up, dude,” said with affection. 

That day had been spent doing chores around the base, there hadn’t been any sign of Decepticon activity in a while, which on unnerved the Autobots more. Prime had asked Soundwave if he knew of anything, but the bot had no answer. Just as the Autobots were about to set aside their superstitions, a shot was heard from the distance. The Autobots rolled out from their base, Soundwave included. 

It’d be a lie to say he wasn’t nervous, but that word didn’t quite say exactly how he felt. It was a mix of fear and unease like he could feel the tensity in the air. He wasn’t wrong to assume this, either. The closer the Autobots got to the sound, the more they saw. A line of Decepticons stood in the distance, their shadows stretching across the wasteland from the burning sunset behind them. The Autobots rolled to a stop, transforming a couple of yards away from the line. Megatron’s eyes burned with rage as he stepped forward from the center of the line. 

Voice laced with fury, he roared out, “bring me the traitor!” His chest heaved, shoulders tensed, “bring me Soundwave so I can dismantle him with my own hands!” 

Prime paralleled Megatron, standing tall across from him. His voice was steady, strength seeping through each word. “Your commands mean nothing to me. Megatron. He is not one of your pawns, anymore.”

Megatron’s shoulders raised, drawing himself to his full height, nose flaring. “I said bring him to me!” 

Prime looked to Soundwave, who stared ahead, expression unreading. Blaster and Jazz held onto his arms, firmly knit eyebrows joined with a mix of strained anxiety. 

“Either we battle now!” Megatron yelled, pointing at Soundwave, “or we battle now,” gesturing to the entire crowd. 

The only noise across the stretch of land was the wind and clinking of impatient metal gears.
Prime and Megatron stared at each other, their glares cutting through the tension in the clearing. 

“Soundwave,” Prime stated, “the decision is yours.”

Hands tightened around the former Decepticons arms, sliding down to his hands.
“Don’t,” Blaster begged, “please don’t.”
Jazz held his other hand, desperate. “We can take them, you don’t have to do this.”
Their eyes pleaded for him to stay by their side. 

They didn’t have any doubts about their partner’s strength, but for him to fight Megatron alone was risky. They didn’t want the risk, they didn’t want what they had to be taken so soon. 

When Soundwave looked into those eyes he saw the stars in Jazz’s visor. He saw the smile and joy, the energy of music in Blaster. If not for the Earth, he needed to do it for them, for those stars in Jazz’s eyes, for Blaster’s smile. He pried his hands away, not willing to spare a word as the duo looked on in horror. 

Soundwave met Megatron in the middle, Autobots and Decepticons circled, creating a ring around them. 

“You lied to me,” Megatron stated.
Soundwave remained silent.
“Why?” Megatron said through gritted teeth, “why?!”
Soundwave stood still, unanswering.
“Answer me!” he yelled in his face.

For the first time, Soundwave could hear some hurt in his former leader’s tone. The betrayal had truly cut him, it had been unprompted and impulsive. It was only expected that Megatron would feel so hurt by a former ally, possibly the only ally he truly felt was on his side. Starscream always plotted to overthrow him, most of the others were mere nuisances, aside for Shockwave. 

“No Time For Questions,” Soundwave said, “We Battle Now,” recorded audio of Megatron’s voice was shot back at him.
“Fine,” Megatron tensed, “let’s show your new team what a piece of scrap metal you are!” 

Megatron threw a punch at his former ally, Soundwave dodged easily. The two then collided, fists to palms as they battled for dominance. Feet slipping the loose sandy ground they stood in. Megatron took the chance and kicked at Soundwave’s legs before he had the chance to fire his shoulder canon. The bot fell to his knees, where Megatron grabbed his head, slamming it into his knee before tossing him aside. Soundwave barely dodged the next attack, rolling just before Megatron had the chance to stomp his head in. His canon charged and fired, landing a blow on Megatron’s arm. 

The roar from the crowd sounded on all sides. 

Blaster and Jazz looked on, finding no purpose in shielding their eyes, they cheered for Soundwave. What else could they do in moments like this? Even Gears joined in on cheering for him. The Decepticons applauded each hit Megatron landed, even Starscream. As much as a battle it was inside the ring, the cheering around the was turning into a battle itself. As if whichever side screamed the loudest would win.

Megatron and Soundwave had seemingly concluded one thing during their fighting, words were unnecessary. Actions spoke louder. 

As such, they met each blow with silence, each attack with muted anger and rage-fueled systems. Soundwave wasn’t sure what the other fought for anymore, he wasn’t sure and he didn’t care. Because the ones he fought for stood on the outside, their voices merely a whisper in the ring, and they were expecting him to return. 

So, he would. 

Megatron landed a hit to his face, his visor cracked as he was sent flying through the air. A gasp rang out from the crowd, he could barely hear the voices calling for him to stand up. On weak arms, he struggled to stand but managed to just barely reach his knees. Megatron was in no better shape. The leader walked with a slight limp, his right arm terribly damaged with wires and metals poking through. 

The leader would not offer his courtesy of last words, he would not offer linger glances or swift goodbyes. This was a fight Soundwave would have to win. 

He ran forward, barely able to make out the form in front of him. He raised his hand, prepared to punch while his canon reloaded. Only to be halted by a hand on his throat, squeezing as he gripped the shaky arm. It was taking all Megatron’s strength to hold him up. 

The grip tightened, threatening to tear into the esophagus-system.
He slackened, the light draining from his visor as he fell limp into the ground. 

Terror and cheers shot through the crowd. Two Autobots were forced to stay back, a crowd of their own forming to hold them back. Megatron turned, basking in the cries of war. Taking glory in the face of the distraught wails from his enemies. 

Then, from the ground, without even a movement, Soundwave’s canon was fired. A shot hit Megatron square in the back. He was flown toward the outer layer of the ring, Decepticons scrambled out of the way as their leader slid back past the borders. 

The leader could hardly stand, his leg now mangled and in desperate need of repair. He wouldn’t be able to transform even if he wanted to. That wouldn’t stop him from trying, he still had his pride after all. So, even as Soundwave stalked toward him in the now-silent crowd, Megatron groaned as his mechanisms hissed at his every motion. He’d barely gotten to his hands and knees before Soundwave kicked him to the side. 

Soundwave scowled, down at the former leader, the one he’d once been so proud to serve. But it was stripped away by the years of superiority, by the fear in replace of respect, by the daunting task to be useful lest he be cast aside as the scrap he saw him as. 

“You Are Inferior.”
He stated clearly, canon revving up for its final attack.

Megatron stared down the barrel of the weapon, refusing to meet Soundwave’s gaze. It was oddly ironic that his most trusted ally would be the one to betray him, even more so that he’d be the one to bring about his end. 

The blast fired, the crowd was hushed and in awe.
Megatron’s eyes blinked open, the blast had fired next to his head, singing the corners and leaving a nasty burn across his metal. 

“We Are Done Here, Megatron,” Soundwave said as he turned, walking back to the Autobots.

Rage rolled off Megatron. How dare Soundwave turn his back on him. After all they had been through together. This war, all the battles, he had thought Soundwave as his closest confidante, the only capable one in his ranks. The pressure in his jaw was enough to break teeth. 

“You coward!” Megatron shouted, the robot’s blood spitting between yells. “You coward! Come back and finish me!” 

His yells were tuned off as the Autobot, Soundwave, approached his crew. Weak knees gave out as red and blue raced toward him, vision blurring as he felt hands on his sides and face. He had returned, he’d won, just like he said we would. 

 

—

 

Days passed with the bot in drifting from critical condition to stable, until finally, Ratchet was able to maintain him. Blaster and Jazz hardly left his side unless needed, ordered, to go elsewhere. Many nights, Jazz would curl up beside Blaster, the two fitting together like puzzle pieces. Blaster would wrap an arm around the shorter, leaning his head against the top of his, drifting to sleep as they sent lingering looks toward their damaged partner. Awaiting for the final puzzle piece. 

The Decepticons were silent again, seemingly for reasons unknown, but many assumed they were tending to Megatron’s wounds. Or perhaps one, in particular, was praying for his downfall, trying to grab the reins where he could. Either way, it was little concern as of now. 

A few more days of patiently waiting would be met with the red brights of Soundwave’s renewed visor. Still weak and not fully repaired, he could only barely sit up to greet the relieved expressions of his partners. 

“Are you okay? How are you feeling?” Blaster asked.
“I Am Fine,” Soundwave assured.
“Positive?”
“Yes.”

“Good,” Blaster punched his shoulder, “that’s what you get for being so thickheaded!”
Another punch, this time from Jazz, “and that’s for worrying us!” 

Soundwave rubbed the spots, it hadn’t hurt, but it was instinct.
“I Apologize,” he said, some humor in his tone as if laughing at the moment. 

It was hard for the anger to last, if it could even be called that. The three settled into peaceful talks about what Soundwave had missed out on. Truthfully, nothing much, it seemed. The base had been slow, it seemed even the other Autobots were worried for their previous foe. 

Soundwave listened intently as the duo spoke, the corners of his visor lifting. 

“I Have A Request,” he stated.
“Sure,” Blaster said.
“Shoot,” Jazz leaned forward.
“When I Am Well Enough To Move,” he hesitated, “I Would Like To Go Look At The Stars.”

And how could they refuse a request like that?
They couldn’t.

And so they promised the Autobot a night of dancing and fun under those ever-growing in significant stars.

Notes:

I hope you all enjoyed the story! I really liked the ending and how it sorta circled back to the beginning! The metaphor! I really enjoyed writing this, by the way, and the support I received was amazing! I took some creative liberties inspired by the 'Megatron and Soundwave met in a gladiator pit' idea (which I believe is from Dreamwave Prod.)(?)) So, I apologize for any continuity errors, though, isn't that the fun part of G1 anyway, lmao

I hope this fic brought smiles and a few laughs to readers!

I plan on making a request book, so keep an eye out if you're interested or like my writing!
(And if you like musical trios check out my deltarune fics hehe)