Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

It’s been stellar-cycles since his last private recruitment from the Decepticon leader himself. Although Shockwave was personally invited by none other than Megatronus himself, the members of his faction weren’t really thrilled by his presence, considering the fact that his reputation wasn’t as pleasant as “revolutionary fighting for the injustices of their society” and more something along the lines of “a mad scientist who collected sparks for his experiments”. Nevertheless, the scientist himself couldn’t bring himself to care that much. Shockwave has accepted his current situation and made it his personal mission to make the best of it. 

As a gift for Megatronus' persistence, Shockwave thought it would be befitting for a gladiator to have an impressive weapon, but alas the scientist was stumped. He was fairly new to weapons engineering and if he was being honest he has no idea what a perfect weapon should be, especially for someone as amazing in combat as Megatronus. The scientist decided to leave his lab for the first time in deca-cycles and take a short walk. 

It was strange, his pedes always seemed to absentmindedly carry him towards the exit of the arena every time he decided to go out. Even though he was curious about his surroundings, albeit mostly for security purposes since he was in an unfamiliar place, he would still find himself by the exit. Once Shockwave realized what was going on, he would stare down at his feet for a few kliks and walk back to his lab.

Illogical.

Unbeknownst to the scientist, someone has been keeping a watchful optic at his peculiar routine for a few cycles now. The spy continued to follow him until Shockwave reached the door to his lab. Soundwave’s eyeridges rose in surprise when he heard the scientist speak.

“How long have you been following me?”

The spy stepped out of the shadows and replied. “Long enough. Query: how did you know?”

Shockwave faced the blue mech, cocked his head to the side and answered in his most monotone voice.

“It wasn’t that hard to install security sensors here. This place really needs more improvement, you can’t guard it all by yourself.” 

Irritated, Soundwave stepped closer, visor flaring. Interesting enough, the empath couldn’t feel much from the mech in front of him. The purple mech wasn’t pulling his EMF to himself per se, but if he were to describe Shockwave’s EM field that time, it just felt...cold. Mechanical if he was being more accurate. The kind of feeling one would get from watching a group of workers absorbed in their repetitive work to the point where the surroundings become blurred. 

How unpleasant.  

Soundwave thought as he glared at him. It was clear to Shockwave from the start that this mech, who was apparently Megatronus’s most trusted ally, despised him. He could understand his apprehension and distrust to an extent but it was beginning to be a nuisance. 

“Decepticon insignia: missing. Shockwave: hiding and lurking. Conclusion: betrayal might be imminent.”

“You are being illogical.”

The spy was about to retort when he noticed the scientist take out something in his subspace. Soundwave quickly took out his blaster and pointed it to the other’s helm. Startled, Shockwave almost dropped what he was holding. 

“Slowly.” the blue mech spoke in a commanding voice. The scientist quietly complied, revealing it to be the missing insignia. The badge glinted in his digits, it was clear that it was newly made.  

The gun pointed at Shockwave’s helm was retracted but Soundwave’s scrutinizing gaze remained on him. 

“If it would make you feel less distrusting of me, you can put the insignia on my shoulder plates yourself.”

The hostility emanating from Soundwave's field lessened. The spy then turned his back to the scientist and replied.

"Assessment of Shockwave: Recalculated. I expect the insignia to be on your shoulder within this cycle." 

With that, Shockwave was once again left to his own devices, still unsure of what to give to his leader. 

~

Orion made his way to Kaon, determination written on his face plates. It has not gone unnoticed that Megatronus' recent movements against the senate have been too aggressive to his liking. Once he knew that his beloved was staying in Kaon he immediately went to confront him. 

"Ah, Orion. What a pleasant surprise my love. You should've commed me that you were coming." 

Megatronus greeted him at the entrance as if nothing was wrong. Even though Orion made sure to let his beloved be aware of his unease, it unnerved him that the gladiator didn’t even acknowledge this in his EM field. The data clerk approached him, glancing at the curious optics watching them. Orion couldn’t help but notice the increasing number of unfamiliar faces that were joining the Decepticons. Back then, when he first joined this movement, a ceremony would be held for the new members. It was always a special occasion that Megatronus himself presided and all would be present to welcome them. Now, it felt different…it felt wrong. Seeing the leery looks he got from these strangers didn’t lessen the horrible feeling in his chest. 

It was peculiar that his partner was waiting for him here. It was as if he knew he was going to come to him the moment he heard about the recent bombing in Six Lasers no less which involved civilian casualties. 

"May I speak with you… in private."

The two of them took a walk inside the arena. Orion looked at the mech beside him…except he noticed that Megatronus was already walking past him towards his private quarters. It was a bit rude. Sure he was the Decepticon leader, but to be treated like an underling following his master didn’t sit right with Orion. Perhaps he was overthinking it, but it did hurt. 

The data archivist decided to keep quiet the whole way, gathering his thoughts on how best to confront Megatronus. After all, deep down he knew that his lover was still within reach of reason. Surely there must have been a just reason for blowing up an amusement park right? 

Finally, the two of them were alone in the gladiator’s berthroom. Megatronus didn’t even speak. Once the doors were locked he closed the space between him and his little data clerk, pinning him in the nearest wall and kissing him right away. Surprised, Orion yelped at the sudden action. Pulling away for a moment, the archivist tried to speak but Megatronus’ mouth was already back on his, determined to keep him quiet. The grey mech began to slide a leg between Orion’s own, making him moan but he underestimated his partner’s will. Orion shoved Megatronus, a look of confusion and hurt obviously written in the data clerk’s face. 

Megatronus’ chest couldn’t help but ache at the sight. Of course he knew Orion’s purpose of visit.

“I know what you’re doing. Seduction won’t work and you know it.” Orion rubbed a digit on his sore lipplates which made Megatronus lick his own. He couldn’t help it, Orion’s angry face with his lips looking like that had awakened something in him and it couldn’t have come at a better timing. Now both of them are frustrated for different reasons. 

Megatronus let out gruff noise, looking away at Orion as he crossed his arms. The archivist couldn’t help but sigh and close the distance between them once more as he gave him a hug. Orion pecked him on his cheek and whispered.

“I need you to tell me that you weren’t involved in that incident…” 

The Decepticon leader looked at him in those shining blue optics, debating whether he would lie or confess. But who was he joking, he could never lie to him, try as hard as he might. That explosion was supposed to be a statement. Clearly the High Council did not take the revolution seriously enough so he needed to take action. With every klik that passed, more of their comrades died of energon starvation and he wasn’t going to wait around until half of their planet dies. 

“There were unintended results…”

“People have died Megatronus!” 

Orion pulled away from him, servos balled into a fist. He wasn’t sure which was worse, that he was admitting or denying it. Either way, it pained him. Orion couldn’t believe that Megatronus would resort to violence in the end. Of course, he should’ve seen it coming. Megatronus has been adamant on changing Cybertron through force. 

“What’s done is done. Do I regret it? No. If it will even get the slightest attention my people need I would do it again. Unless they start taking the necessary action I will never stop.” Megatronus towered over him, pointing a finger as he continued “We are the symptom of the disease that’s taking over this damned society, and you don’t have the right to judge how we survive when you’ve lived your whole life not worrying about whether you’ll even have a tomorrow to look forward to!” 

The data archivist flinched at his partner’s accusatory tone. He was right. Of course he was right. It was the reason he’s standing with him in the first place.

Looking down, Orion spoke in a shaky voice, optics beginning to fill with coolant “But not like this…” He raised his head high, meeting that fiery gaze with his own. “You’re right but it shouldn’t be this way! I just can’t turn a blind eye to those mechs who lost their lives Megatronus.” 

The Decepticon leader let out a growl, righteous anger beginning to bubble up from his chest. Megatronus was about to retaliate when Orion cut him off, the words from the archivist surprised him as he said the following. 

“I secured an audience with the High Council two cycles ago…I was going to tell you right away, but when I heard about what happened with Six Lasers I…I don’t know if telling you was the right decision.” Orion looked away and squeezed his optics shut, afraid to see the reaction on his dearest's face. 

Megatronus couldn’t begin to describe the feeling of betrayal he was experiencing right now. He grabbed him by the arm and spoke.

“How- Why?!… Orion, you knew how important this was to me!” the gladiator shook his arm, begging him to look back. Coolant began to flow from the archivist’s optics as he began to explain between sobs. 

“It wasn’t just that place Megatronus, the Decepticons were beginning to act differently, they’ve become more violent and I-.”  He placed a gentle servo on the gladiator’s forearm and continued. “I begged Alpha Trion to help. It wasn’t easy. I know what you’re thinking…Why only now.” The grip on his arm began to loosen as he explained further “It was your recent actions, and I finally told Alpha Trion the true nature of our relationship…sort of. It was precisely why.”

Megatronus’ faceplate was swirling with mixed emotions. Confusion, anger that’s fading by the klik, and sheepishness, which surprised Orion more as he took note of the slight blush in the gladiator’s face.

“You told Alpha Trion we’re lovers!? That’s so unnecessary-” He told him with a hitch in his voice. He knew how much Orion looked up to that old bag of rust. He was basically raised by that mech.

“Well I didn’t tell him that! I just…well I told him we were very close and that I have been coming here. All this time he just thought we were talking through the Grid.”

The tilt on Megatronus’ helm was adorable, Orion thought. It was almost bizarre, they were just arguing a few breems ago, now they’re having a casual conversation about their relationship. It caught him off-guard how much Megatronus cared about Alpha Trion knowing about them. He wondered why.

He also wondered, why now …It wasn’t just recently that he had tried to convince Alpha Trion to grant Megatronus an audience with the High Council. Ever since his spark has been shaken to the core by his speeches, he knew that his movement needed to be properly heard. But the moment he confessed that he’s involved, the sparkle in the old sage’s optics awakened. It was like he had been waiting for this moment. 

It was Orion’s turn to grab Megatronus by his arm then. Speaking in a serious and firm voice, the archivist looked the gladiator in the eye and told him.

“Megatronus, you need to promise me to stop the attacks before the meeting with the High Council. Promise me.”

“And when is this fateful meeting going to be held?” 

“A deca-cycle from now. Just ten cycles, that’s all I’m asking. It’s going to be held at the Hall of Records.”

Megatronus raised an eyeridge at that. Orion, quickly witted as ever, answered his unspoken question. “It was requested by Alpha Trion himself. He was insistent on it for some reason.” 

“Very well…I promise.” 

~

It was already past the normal recharge cycle of an average cybertronian, but Shockwave was still toiling away at his current projects. Besides the long list of things he must do, Megatronus' weapon has to be completed soon. Word of his meeting with the High Council has spread all over the base like wildfire and it would do his leader well if he was well-equipped in case things started to turn for worse. 

Venting, the scientist took a quick break. Shockwave stood up and rolled his shoulders. Hearing the satisfying creaks of his plates was enough to remind him of the old days in Crystal City. Times where he was so engrossed in his work that he would often forget to move for long periods of time. Of course with those memories, pain would also come side to side, as he recalled the betrayal from his master. The mech closed his optic for a moment and suppressed the feeling as much as he could. He couldn't afford to waste time on unnecessary emotions, he thought to himself.

Shockwave scanned his current laboratory. As he took in all of its surroundings he realized that he's still doing the exact same thing back then. So much has happened and yet he's still doing what he does best. He caught a reflection of himself in one of the glassware. The scientist stared at the freshly welded insignia on his shoulder and remembered the conversation he had with the distrustful spy.

Shockwave was a mech who barely considered anyone's opinion on anything but if he was going to complete Megatronus' weapon soon then there's no better candidate to ask than his most trusted subordinate. It was only logical.

Feeling that his options were limited, Shockwave decided to go out and look for Soundwave. The only problem was that the mech has proven himself quite difficult to find when he doesn't want to be found. It was impressive and annoying that the spy can appear to be everywhere and nowhere at the same time. 

Contacting him privately was not an option since the blue mech didn't give him his comm frequency. Apparently if he wanted to contact him he could just ask Megatronus, and since Megatronus was currently occupied by other important matters, Shockwave was left to do the unpleasant alternative, asking mechs around like a lost little sparkling. 

While Shockwave wasn't interested in interacting with anyone in this place, He mentally and physically prepared himself for any confrontation. As he went around the base, it surprised him that these people were now treating him with respect. Begrudging at most, but it still caught him off-guard when a random gladiator saluted him. Was he promoted to some kind of position without his knowledge? 

Exhausted from all of the walking, Shockwave decided to sit down in one of the arenas and watch some of the fighters train from the audience area. While the scientist was lost in thought, he didn't notice a blue figure quietly sit down next to him. 

"Query: Chief Engineer was looking for me?"  

The scientist snapped from his musings and looked beside him. Soundwave was looking straight ahead, observing the training. Everyone else was so focused on their sparring that the two were practically blurred in the background.

Soundwave finally faced him and continued.

"Purpose?" 

Shockwave took a moment to glance at the gladiators before replying. While he did want to ask for his personal frequency so he wouldn't go around asking for him like a fool again, the scientist thought it would be best to get straight to the point first. After all, he was on a tight schedule and he couldn't imagine himself to be relying on Soundwave for the foreseeable future. If anything, the spy would be the one who would need him more. 

"I am currently working on a personal project. One that is specifically designed for Megatronus and I…" 

The scientist curled his servos into a fist before continuing, an ugly feeling forming in his chest.

"...I deem your possible input to be logical." 

Shockwave couldn't read the emotions behind the mask and he couldn't care less right now so he waited patiently until the spy would reply. Just as quickly that unpleasant feeling appeared, the scientist shunned it immediately. It shouldn't affect his pride, in fact he should be above such petty emotions and yet there it was. Perhaps it would take some time getting used to…Ignoring his own emotions was no easy feat.

Soundwave let out a thoughtful hum before speaking.

"Objective?" 

The scientist tilted his helm at the side, confused and mainly annoyed at the question. 

"Clarify." Shockwave replied in a monotone. What answer does Soundwave expect? That he was doing it to gain favor from Megatronus? Maybe this was a waste of time, he thought.

"Shockwave's personal project for Megatronus: purpose? Is it a weapon? Is it a new formula for energon? Is it some kind of experimental enhancing procedure? Details are needed." 

Ah. Of course. 

Cautious as always, Soundwave was intensely looking at the scientist, now with both his arms crossed. Although both of them knew that this little intimidating tactic would not scare Shockwave, the purple mech was willing to divulge the details of his weapon nonetheless.

"Yes, it is a weapon. I have noticed Megatronus' excellent close combat skills however I never saw him shoot anything with a blaster. Therefore I'm thinking of making him a long-ranged type of weapon, to make up for this exploitable weakness." 

Shockwave was rambling for a bit about his recent prototypes while Soundwave listened intently. After discussing his designs, he noticed the way the blue mech was sitting. It was almost like he was relaxed in his presence. Illogical. Surely it was some kind of tactic. 

"Designs: decent. Query: have you asked Megatronus' for his preference?" 

Taken aback, Shockwave went still for a moment. He never really thought to ask the mech since he was confident that whatever he would pitch to him would be excellent. Of course that was before he thought that this task would be easy. Looking down at his datapad, Shockwave contemplated for a moment before answering. 

"Perhaps that was the reason why I came to you first. Since you know him best it would be logical to ask you instead of Megatronus in order to avoid biases in design. You would know what he would need most." 

Soundwave looked at him with a newfound respect. The communications officer didn't expect the scientist to put this much thought for something that wouldn't even benefit him directly. Shockwave was odd, but perhaps he judged him too harshly. He may be Decepticon material after all. 

"Explanation: acceptable." He sighed. Standing up, Soundwave gestured the other to follow him down from the audience bleachers to the arena itself. Feeling the slight unease on Shockwave's field, Soundwave reassured him.

"Shockwave: not going to get beaten up. However, a demonstration is needed." 

The blue mech looked around the gladiators that were fighting, scanning for a specific mech. Finally he pointed at one of them and called their attention.

The gladiator approached them with a dumbfounded look in his face. He saluted them, back straight as a pole. His face was covered in dents and grime yet the seriousness in his expression was enough to make a mech quiver in their pedes. Soundwave gave an approving nod and faced Shockwave.

The spy pointed to the mech and spoke. "Megatronus almost has the same build as this one. Commencing, Operation: Deduction." 

Everything happened so fast. Soundwave kicked high, aiming at the poor mecha's faceplates. But seeing as that gladiator was fresh from training, his instincts quickly took over and blocked the incoming attack; however it knocked him far enough for Soundwave to point a blaster at him, albeit it was a training gun, not fatal but enough to cause some discomfort. The gladiator dodged the blast within an inch of his life. Even though he knew deep down that he wasn't in any real danger, he needed to impress Megatronus through Soundwave. 

The gladiator didn't have any gun on him so he opted to lunge at his attacker and close their distance as much as possible for him to counter-attack, but Soundwave knew this. Aiming perfectly between the gladiator's optics, Soundwave shot him.

"Ow…" the gladiator fell on his face with a groan. 

Soundwave looked at Shockwave expectantly, like a teacher who was ready to answer any of his student's questions, which the scientist has a lot of. 

"Interesting demonstration. Wouldn't it be more convenient to tell it to me directly?"

"Shockwave: would not understand. You're not a warrior. Experience: best teacher."

Shockwave scoffed at him. As he circled at the fallen gladiator, who was trying to maintain what's left of his dignity, he began to assess the fight as a scientist. Churning out ideas one by one, he took out a datapad and noted some of the mech's features that highly resembled Megatronus. One that particularly stood out for him was the arm.

The scientist looked back at Soundwave then at the mech, who was now sitting on the ground with a curious look on his face, then back at Soundwave again. He then began to walk towards the spy. 

Eyeridge raised, Soundwave stood still, curious at what the scientist would do next. Shockwave stopped beside him and spoke briefly in his monotone voice. 

"This has been informative." With that he continued to walk past him and back to his lab. 

"You're welcome." Soundwave left as well, beginning to walk in another direction with an annoyed sigh. He supposed that was as close as he could get to a "thank you" from Shockwave. The poor gladiator was left sitting on the dirt while his previous sparring partner was watching the whole scene from the bleachers, mouth full of rust sticks. 

~

"Is he still holed up in his cave?"

"Affirmative"

Megatronus pinched the bridge of his nose with a groan. It has been eight cycles since Soundwave's little demonstration and no one has seen the purple scientist come out from his lab. Although some have speculated that he was already a rusting corpse in there, one of the fighters curiously took a peek inside but the windows were all tightly shut. The door was also locked and can only be opened by Megatronus or the medic. 

The only reason that they thought he was alive was because of the occasional welding noises and explosions. 

"What project is he working on that he must spend all his attention on?!" Megatronus bellowed, "Granted that he has improved the technology and security here, Shockwave must know that we are on the verge of making history here!" he added in a furious voice. 

He looked to Soundwave for an answer, because of course nothing goes on within the Decepticons without him knowing. Soundwave answered promptly.

"A weapon. For you." 

The anger on his face dissipated immediately upon hearing this. He was aware in their agreement that Shockwave would be contributing his intelligence into fortifying their ranks. Be it weapons or security, he must prepare the soldiers enough to level the playing field in case a fight against the Senate would break out. Of course it didn't ease Orion's mind, he could tell that he was regretting introducing Shockwave to him. Not only the recent influx of weapons instigated violence on the streets, it became serious enough that the Senate was beginning to look at the Decepticons as a legitimate threat. 

"A gift for me? How thoughtful of him." He said, the curiosity in his voice obvious. Megatronus began to ask some questions about it. Soundwave, unfortunately, did not have many answers since the cryptic scientist hasn’t updated anyone on the weapon he was working on. Sure, he showed him those drafts but there’s no telling what he would make. If he was being honest, his curiosity was piqued as well. 

While the two of them were discussing plans for the upcoming meeting with the High Council, another explosion was heard in the lab's direction. Seeing the reaction of the foot soldier guarding the door of their war room, Soundwave assumed that this explosion was out of the ordinary. It shook the walls for a bit so needless to say it was a bit concerning. The spy immediately commed for the medic to check if the mad scientist was still alive. 

After a few kliks, Soundwave received an update on Shockwave's well-being. Needless to say the sudden flare in the blue mech's field slightly worried the Decepticon leader. 

"He's not dead is he?" Megatronus asked with a nervous chuckle.

"Shockwave: functioning…However," Soundwave sighed before he continued. "He has lost an arm."

The reaction on Megatronus' face was unique if Soundwave were to describe it. Worry with a hint of annoyance and beneath all that the empath could feel his suppressed excitement for this weapon. 

"As long as his brain module's intact…" Megatronus said in a nonchalant voice. 

Pedes heading towards the door, the warlord waved goodbye at his subordinate "Soundwave as always I'm leaving you in charge. I have business in Vos. Try to keep our little scientist alive would you?" 

"Affirmative." 

~ 

The moment Shockwave woke up, painful sensations assaulted his left side. Slowly, the scientist took in his surroundings. The familiar beeps and the smell of the disinfectants wafting through his olfactory sensors just confirmed his location. Shockwave ran a self-diagnostic scan on himself. What his HUD showed him felt like a punch in his gut. A good chunk of his arm was definitely lost during the explosion. Multiple damages in his upper left extremities and of course he lost a lot of energon hence the drip that was currently attached to him now.

Carefully, the scientist tried to sit up on his own but the medic noticed him stir.  Thus resulting in one of the most annoying headaches of his lifetime. 

"hey HEY HEY. You just exploded your own freakin arm and you're already down to do more damage to yourself?! Go lie back down!" The grumpy medic yelled. If he was meant to recover then why did he need to increase the volume of his voice? Illogical. Shockwave did not have the energy to argue so he opted to follow his doctor. 

"I mean seriously, what the hell's wrong with Megatronus hiring this crazy guy…" the medic grumbled as he continued to arrange his tools. The mech either did not realize that Shockwave could hear the mumbling or he did not care. 

"Primus you should've seen your lab, you were practically bathing on your own energo–" 

The doctor's ramblings suddenly stopped, clearly an important transmission was coming through. The medic looked at Shockwave with a raised eyeridge. He then proceeded to walk towards his medical berth with an unimpressed look on his faceplates. 

"Check your HUD."

Shockwave did as he was told only to find two commlink frequencies. Before he could ask, the doctor already beat him to it.

"The other one's mine. You know, in case you do something like this again. And the other one is Soundwave's. You know, so he can prevent you from doing something like this again" The mech scratched the back of his helm as he added. "I don't know why you're not already included in High Command's commlink frequency, you're our Chief Engineer. You basically have as many responsibilities around here as me. Well not as much as Soundwave's but you get it."

"Your designation." Shockwave asked flatly, clearly uninterested in his doctor's musings. 

"What about my designation?"

"What is it?" the scientist asked in his most monotonous voice. It was as if he was asking what flavor of energon was being served this cycle. The medic however, clearly took offense to this. 

" You little– I SAVED YOUR SORRY AFT TWICE! AND YOU NEVER BOTHERED TO LEARN MY NAME!"

"Well I am going to learn it right now. This outburst is illogical." The purple mech said in a matter-of-factly manner that pissed the medic more. 

" ARRRGH!"  The medic just balled his green servos into a fist in frustration. "I need to remove myself in this room before I strangle you! My designation is Hook you inconsiderate aft!" 

With that Shockwave was left alone in the medbay, updating his HUD in peace. While going through his schedule he noticed a ping from Soundwave's frequencies. He opened the message.

[Estimated time for arm repairs?] 

The scientist paused for a couple of kliks before pinging a message back.

[ Five cycles.]  It dawned on him that he may not be able to install the weapon he made for Megatronus himself. Even if he synthesized a chemical agent to speed up his self-repair (which was unlikely) he would still need to find a suitable replacement for his arm. The fated meeting would be held in three cycles. As much as he began to resent asking for assistance he needed, no– he wanted to give Megatronus that weapon before the meeting. 

Shockwave threw what's left of his pride and dignity and commed Soundwave. 

[ You must secure the weapon in my lab and have Hook install it to Megatronus as soon as possible when you have the chance.] 

Soundwave was currently on a recon mission in Iacon. As he read through the scientist's message he couldn't help but stop on his tracks for a klik and smile a little. Megatronus' hold on Shockwave was clear as day and the scientist's loyalty could not be questioned any further. Despite his injuries, he prioritized Megatronus and that struck a chord with him.  Although Shockwave's a mystery himself, he would not worry about him being a traitor to the cause. 

[Affirmative.] He replied. Little did Shockwave know that Soundwave was already ahead of him. The moment the explosion was heard Ravage and the twin cassettes already took care of things and punished those unwitting fools who tried to steal it. 

~

The meeting in the Hall of Records was finally happening. Tomorrow, the history of Cybertron would forever change and Orion couldn’t recharge at all so he instead decided to catch up on some archiving work. The halls were quiet save for a few other archivists who were doing some late night filing. The data clerk couldn’t shake this awful feeling in his chest that something dreadful would happen tomorrow. Looking for reassurances, Orion tried to reach out to Megatronus through their bond only to find a steady hum. That only meant two things, he was either fast asleep or deep in thought. Usually Megatronus’ spark would be this steady when he’s writing. Orion tried to reach him again. No response. 

Sleeping it is then.

A bit disappointed, Orion couldn’t help but feel envy at his conjunx ease right now but happy for him nevertheless. Little did he know that Megatronus was currently unconscious as he was going into Hook’s surgery table. The cannon that Shockwave made was truly magnificent and clever . The madman actually did it, he made a weapon that was capable of hiding in his arm, more importantly it would be able to hide itself in scanners. The only problem was the delicacy of the procedure. Hook would need to alter the Decepticon leader’s altmode a bit since the weapon would be integrated into his system. The whole operation took until morning. After taking quite some time, Megatronus was testing out his newly installed arm cannon, flexing his arm and the transformation seam in it to calculate the time for his draw.

“Well? How are you feeling my Lord?”

“Good enough to remember why I recruited you in the first place Hook. Your performance outweighs your big mouth. Well done.”

“Uhm…Thank you?” Hook replied in an uneasy tone. Megatronus hid the cannon again. With a grin, he placed a reassuring servo on the medic and spoke once more. 

“I jest. Now where’s our little engineer, I must commend him at once before I depart.”

Hook grabbed a datapad containing all the blueprints, notes, and a report of the procedure he had done and gave it to Megatronus before he told him Shockwave’s location.

“He insisted on recovering at his lab, apparently he feels more secure there than his habsuite.” 

Shockwave was already up and about when Megatronus found him. The scientist was currently drawing up plans to renovate his laboratory space. When he noticed the door open, the purple mech turned his helm around for a moment and nodded in acknowledgement before turning back into work. 

“Well I would say you’re as diligent as Soundwave but you might find that offensive seeing that he left you a terrible first impression.”

“I take it the weapon is working as intended?” Ignoring what he said, Shockwave put his datapad down and bowed in respect. Megatronus made himself comfortable and sat down to the nearest chair, granted it was the only seat available. “I must confess, I find it quite fulfilling that the mess of a mech we had found back then, one that was drowning in despair, was nowhere to be found in my sight right now. Excellent work Shockwave.” 

The scientist felt something bloom in his spark. Perhaps it was pride? But he couldn’t help but remember the familiar feeling of acknowledgement he got. The feeling quickly faded as he graciously accepted the compliment. Well, as graciously as he can these cycles. 

“Thank you.” He said in a monotone voice. “Credit where credit is due, Soundwave did have some contribution to your weapon.” The purple scientist had told his leader. Megatronus made an inquisitive noise at that. He could sense no malice in his voice, in fact he couldn’t sense anything from Shockwave these days. 

“Don’t push yourself too much, and have Hook replace your arm as soon as possible.” Megatronus said as he waved goodbye, his back turned against him.

Seeing the cannon in Megatronus’ arm has given him an idea. Cybertron was changing, that was an inevitable fact and right now he needed not only a means to create things. Shockwave ran his servo absentmindedly at his left shoulder, brain already churning with weapon designs for his new arm. 

~

Megatronus and Orion walked inside the Hall of Records, sparks burning with anticipation. It was going to be a private meeting, but seeing the clamor of bots outside the building Orion couldn't put his mind at ease. 

"I'm glad you were able to recharge peacefully last night my love" 

Megatronus gently squeezed his servo in an attempt to calm his lover. Orion squeezed back, clueless about his conjunx little upgrade. Hall of Records rarely had outside visitors, apart from the current Prime or any member of the High Council who would sometimes consult with the Head Archivist for some important documents, no one would really bother to use this chamber. They did keep it with the intention of converting it into another data storage but Alpha Trion insisted on keeping it as it is. 

They finally reached the main doors for the chamber. The two of them stopped and looked at each other, optics filled with hope for their future. Orion was etching this memory in his brain module and so was Megatronus. 

"Any last words?"

"Primus Megatronus, what am I dying here?" Orion chuckled as he gave him a peck on his servo. The grey mech smiled and laughed a little. 

"You know what I mean…I love you Orion."

"I love you too" 

The two of them shared a brief chaste kiss before entering the chamber.

Orion could see the members of the High Council all seated at side in a separate podium. Some of his colleagues are seated on a small separate section where they can record everything that would transpire here. The audience was certainly selected. A few prominent figures in high society were there, even the prince of Vos Starscream came here to watch. Of course, the security they put up was insane, given the importance of the individuals in this very room, all weapons would have to be surrendered. 

The two of them reached the center, in front of them were three elevated podiums. One for the highest member of the council, one for Alpha Trion and one for none other than the Prime himself. Megatronus did not expect for Sentinel Prime to show himself before him, if he made his presence known here then he must be really getting close to his goal. 

"Welcome, Orion Pax of Iacon and to the one they address as Megatronus of Kaon. An interesting designation to assign oneself, given its tragic history." 

Sentinel exclaimed, eyes dispassionate as he met Megatronus' scrutinizing gaze. The Decepticon leader kept his silence, but the apprehension on his field was evident as Orion looked at him with worried optics. 

"Let's not waste any more time for theatrics shall we? You are granted a rare opportunity no mech of your status could've ever received in their lifetime." Councilor Halogen spoke in a tone that really irked the grey mech. 

“This was a long time coming, I’m here because of the failures of people like you. You may have avoided this problem for a long time now by turning a blind optic on us but no more.” Megatronus began to pace around, facing everyone as he continued. “We were once proud explorers, building civilizations outside of Cybertron and yet what has become of us?” 

The grey mech gestured around him, reiterating his point. Councilor Halogen piped in, interrupting his speech. “And what do you suppose a mere laborer like you could suggest? More violent destruction hmm?” Orion glared at him. The data clerk was about to protest but Megatronus retorted back. 

“Why if it wasn’t for those I wouldn’t have acquired all of your attention.” Megatronus scoffed before he added. “Before I was rudely interrupted, it seems I would have to cut my speech short and get to the point. Clearly my followers have more attention span than you, Councilor.”

Councilor Halogen stood up in response, dentae gritting and both servo clenched. A few snickers were heard from the audience which irritated the High Council even more. 

“You DARE DISRESPECT-” 

“Enough.” 

One word from the Prime put the whole room into a standstill. Sentinel Prime held a servo towards the councilor without breaking eye contact with Megatronus. Optics narrowing, the Prime stood up for a moment and spoke. 

“State your purpose. The current Energon crisis, the decline in our population, the increasing criminal activity in the streets and other more problems. I don’t want to add you to my list.”

“Is that so?” Megatronus chuckled in disbelief “Are you so out of touch with reality that you still fail to see the big picture here?” 

Sentinel Prime took offense to that and jumped down to confront him. Thud. Orion was taken aback by the prime’s presence. He was almost as big and imposing as Megatronus, but they both carry themselves differently. Sentinel carried himself elegantly, much like royalty interacting with commoners. Untouchable. 

He pointed an accusatory finger at Megatronus’ chestplates and replied. “ I will not be lectured by a brute!”  Glancing at Orion, the Prime looked at him with disappointment. “Are you satisfied now? I thought you would be the perfect successor to Alpha Trion and now you’ve reduced yourself to this. Do you not see how he’s been manipulating you? All of this is just one big ploy for a power grab! ”

Now it was Megatronus’ turn to be angry. The gladiator forced the prime to look at him, grabbing his shoulder plates aggressively. Quick to act, all the security mechs pointed their blasters to the Decepticon leader. 

“I’m very honored that you even took your time to look at me optic-to-optic. It must have put a strain on your neck cables from looking down on me on your towering podium.” The grip on Sentinel Prime’s shoulder loosened. Megatronus continued with a low growl on his voice. “But let’s not make this personal, you want to know why I’m here? I’ll tell you.” 

“Sir please get back on your podium” One of the security politely asked the Prime. Sentinel glared at the gladiator, waiting for him to speak once more. 

“I want to destroy the caste system.” 

The reaction that came next was unexpected. Megatronus’ optic widened in utter disbelief as the Prime cackled like a madman. His laughter enveloped the whole chamber, while everyone looked at him. Gone was the elegance he exuded moments before, Orion was now staring in horror at the mech like he was insane. Alpha Trion’s faceplates were unreadable while Councilor Halogen was nervously smiling at the scene. Everyone had been quiet, all looking at each other with unease. 

“I haven’t heard anything that funny since…well…since forever!” The Prime wiped some coolant on his optic and went back to his podium. At that moment, Megatronus came to one conclusion. They would never take him seriously. To them, he would always be nothing more than a nuisance to get rid of, a criminal at best. He knew what he needed to do next. The Decepticon leader took one last look at Orion before he revealed the cannon at his arm and shot Sentinel Prime directly on his spark. 

Everything happened so fast. The agents that Starscream planted inside took it as a cue and started shooting every security mech and High Council member. Panic immediately took over the place, stray blaster shots were hitting some but nothing fatal. The prince of Vos himself participated in the gun fight and started shooting. The exits were already sealed courtesy of Soundwave. Unbeknownst to the audience, they were not the real target in this little coup d'etat, the real target was the bauble inside the prime’s chest. Megatronus started to walk towards Sentinel’s dying frame only to be stopped by Orion. 

“NO! No No No!” Orion cried out, arms wide. Seeing the coolant that was flowing down from his blue optics hurt, but both of them knew that the archivist would not be able to stop him. Still, Orion stood his ground. 

“Why?! WHY?! WHY!!” All his anger, disappointment, and sadness ran so deep that Megatronus felt it in their bond. The gladiator looked at him, holding back any coolant that threatened to release in his optics. 

“Step aside Orion.” 

As he expected, the mech would not move.

“There was no other way.” He told him in a quiet voice.

Orion gritted his dentae at that, glaring at Megatronus. He still couldn’t believe this was happening. How could he betray his trust like this? Was he becoming blind of their true goal? Orion couldn’t even begin to form any coherent thought right now. All he knew at this moment was that he must stop Megatronus at all costs. 

“This isn’t the right way…And if I have to stop you myself to make you see, I will.” The archivist took a fighting stance which made the gladiator laugh. Megatronus ran a servo across his face, tired optics looking at Orion with incredulity. As much as he hated doing it the grey mech swiftly lunged at him, striking his stomach with his knee. Orion doubled over in pain. Just before Megatronus was going to hit the back of Orion’s head to make him lose consciousness, a blaster shot nicked him in the shoulder. With a grunt, Megatonus shot back, instantly killing the mech. When he looked back Orion was gone and currently limping towards Sentinel Prime. He must have an idea on what Megatronus was going to do next seeing that he was trying with all his might to reach the prime before him. 

“What are you doing Orion? We were supposed to be doing this together, trampling this archaic empire and rule side by side. Why defy me!”

The archivist ignored him as he desperately hurried towards the dying Prime. As he reached the back of the podium, Councilor Halogen was already dead while his friend Ratchet, who somehow avoided all blaster fire, had made his way here. Relieved, the medic hugged his friend quickly and went back to tending Alpha Trion’s wounds. Sentinel Prime was on his last moments as he beckoned Orion to come closer. 

“Orion Pax, you must not let that…that lunatic get a hold of the Matrix…It is…I never…Even I never bonded with it. You must safeguard it until you find its next successor…” Sentinel Prime trailed off as his spark finally gave up. His last moments confused the archivist. What did he mean “never bonded with it?”. Orion noticed something glowing inside the prime’s chest. At his side, Alpha Trion was watching with anticipation as his apprentice carefully reached for the Matrix. 

“Give it to me, Orion.”

Orion’s whole body was frozen with fear. The blue mech gathered all of his courage and slowly turned around. He couldn’t even recognize the mech before him right now. Megatronus wasn’t even paying attention to him, or how he probably dented his armor with that kick earlier. Those optics were only focused on the Matrix of Leadership and nothing else. 

“Why would you even need this? Do you think the people of Cybertron would accept you with open arms, Megatronus?” 

Megatronus could see it now. Sooner or later his beloved would be a thorn on his side. A weakness that would be exploited by his enemies. No. He paused at that thought. Enemies? As far as he’s concerned, all his enemies should be currently dying right now. Maybe it was his emotions blinding him right now but the only reason he could think of was he couldn’t accept that after everything they’ve been through, Orion would be betraying him. The archivist would even go far to the point that he would be fighting him. 

The gladiator noticed the old scribe and infamous medic friend Orion was telling him about. An honorable mech who was treating those in the lower caste in secret but he could feel how much the medic detested him at this moment. Oddly enough Alpha Trion was looking at him with those scrutinizing optics. It was as if his life wasn’t in danger but he was just a mere observer in these events. 

“And what do you propose we do Orion? Wait for vorns until they change their minds? Don’t be naive.” 

Without wasting any more time, Megatronus tried to grab the Matrix from Orion. Of course the other resisted as much as he could. The data clerk could feel that Megatronus was getting irritated which only prompted him to provoke the other. 

“Are you going to hurt me again? Well I’m not afraid."

Funny how some things work out, Orion finally saw an opening. He noticed Megatronus’ footing was off. For a moment he dropped the Matrix and quickly grabbed his arm to tackle him. The gladiator groaned, frankly he was a little embarrassed and proud of that move since he taught it to his beloved himself, he just didn’t imagine that Orion would use it on him. Instincts kicking in, he quickly got up and decked him, effectively pinning the data clerk on the ground. Orion screamed in pain, Megatronus winced at the cracking sound it made. Alarmed, Ratchet scrambled to his feet and yelled as he ran towards Megatronus. He blocked his fist with his one hand while pinning Orion with his other. Megatronus pushed Ratchet back and activated his cannon. Orion’s optics widened in horror, as he heard its whirring.

“NO! Please!”

The gladiator paused for a klik and looked down. Somehow, while covered in dents and grime, Orion’s optic did not look in despair. In fact it looked ablaze. Beneath all those fear and anger he could see that he was still hoping. Hoping that deep down Megatronus would stop and listen to him. He knew the potential Orion had. When he thought that he would be a thorn in his side, he did not foresee the possible future that perhaps he would be his enemy.

Orion sighed with relief only for a moment when he saw Megatronus put down his weapon and for it to be pointed towards him. He could not even describe the emotions he was feeling right now. Was he really going to die here at the hands of the man he loves? 

“Last chance. You will cease this nonsense and pledge your allegiance to me Orion Pax.” 

The archivist couldn't believe the words that were coming out of the gladiator right now. All of their efforts were for naught, all because of the one decision that Megatronus made. Squirm as he might, his body was effectively pinned down. Gripping at the mech's forearms, Orion closed his optics and vented. 

These might be my last words. My last chance to get through to him. 

"As long as there's a light in my spark, and energon flowing on this veins, I will not give up on you. Freedom is the right of all sentient beings, but the means will never justify its end. Do not be the very thing we're trying to defeat Megatronus.” 

"I beg to differ. Goodbye, Orion Pax." 

A single shot. A sharp, paralyzing pain in his chest. Megatronus dropped to his knees as he saw the light in Orion's optics go out. He cradled his greying form as he wailed. Megatronus' frame shook with anger and despair, everything in the background blurred as he wracked his brain for answers. Did he make the right choice? Was the sacrifice really worth it? 

The Matrix of Leadership shook beside him. A bright light suddenly emerged from its center, distracting everyone from the fight. Alpha Trion carefully stood up and spoke under his breath. 

"At last. The prophecy will be fulfilled." 

Orion's greying arm slowly raised, almost as if it was waiting for something to be placed on its palm. The Matrix floated towards him. Everyone, even Megatronus watched in awe as it landed on Orion's palm. Suddenly, an intense light engulfed the whole room. Cybertronians outside the Hall of Records watched as the whole room lit up. 

When Megatronus opened his optics, it took him a couple of kliks to register what was happening in front of him. As his optics adjusted, he saw Orion standing, back faced against him. He noticed the familiar transformation seams in the blue mech's chest close up. Not only that but Orion looked different. Did he just become…bigger? Megatronus gawked at the sight of him as Orion turned around to face him. It wasn't just his build that was changed, but his face was now covered with a mask not unlike Soundwave's. The recognition in those hopeful optics was the only thing that snapped him from his senses. This mech was Orion, there was no mistaking it. 

"Orion…how?" 

The blue mech placed a hand atop his chest plates. He drew back his mask and faced Megatronus. The Decepticon leader couldn't discern the look he was giving him. He thought he would see anger but instead he only saw the face of a calm mech. 

"Orion Pax…That's not my designation. Not anymore." 

The mask slid back with a snick covering half of his face plates. The mech took a look at himself and his surroundings. 

"My name is Optimus Prime." 

The prime glanced at his former mentor with a knowing look. Alpha Trion only gave him an apologetic smile. Orion Pax and all of the previous primes' memories were currently residing within him. Optimus looked at the gladiator, a forlorn feeling blooming in his chest. 

"I see now what I must do." Optimus' battle protocols activated. His right arm transformed into a blaster as he pointed it at the Decepticon leader. "I still have to stop you, Megatronus." 

The reaction that Optimus got was no less than disturbing. Megatronus was laughing, the same maniacal laughter he did before he hurt Orion Pax. Then his laughter turned into a scream. He was gripping his helm with such intensity that Optimus couldn't help but feel uneasy. Seeing him breakdown like this made his chest tighten. Despite how the Matrix had changed him, underneath all the primal knowledge he had acquired, he was still the simple data clerk from Iacon. 

This cannot be happening! Why why why?!

Megatronus thought to himself. Primus must be doing this to spite him. If someone told him that the only mech he had ever loved, the only person he trusted so much that he willingly opened his spark to, would turn out to be his greatest enemy he would've simply laughed. 

"You're right…You're not him, not anymore. You're just another obstacle that I need to get rid off,  Optimus Prime. " Megatronus spat his name with such venom and hate that Optimus winced at that.

Everything happened so fast. Megatronus suddenly attacked him, each punch more poweful than last. Of course now that Orion became Optimus, he effectively repelled and countered him. The battle between them was so destructive that everyone else stopped as they watched the two of them fight. A blast from Megatronus' canon striked across the ceiling. 

Most of the Decepticons retreated, since their side objective of killing the High Council members was basically done. All that's left were civillians. 

[Status?] 

Worried, Soundwave tried to contact his friend. That cannon blast startled him and he couldn't help but feel that something was wrong. He was currently stationed outside of the Hall of Records with their best fighters. The Decepticons have started their attack on multiple cities, and he was here to stop any law enforcement that would try to interrupt their plan. He tried to ping Megatronus' commlink three more times before he resorted into contacting Starscream himself. 

[Yeah, he's currently occupied right now. I suggest you get in here and retrieve him or things will get uglier. As for me and my fliers, we're out.]

Soundwave let out an irritated sigh. 

[Starscream's Objective?] 

[Don't worry, all the council members are dead. All that's left are some losers and the old man. The main target however became a bit more…complicated] 

The cassette deployer replied in affirmation. As much as he hated to admit it there was no use for them to waste their time and energy here. Now was the perfect chance to take the main cities while every police was clamoring to get inside the Hall. 

[Heading inside. Next strategy meeting will be held in Tarn. Be advised.] 

Somehow, he knew that he needed to see for himself what Starscream was talking about. A terrible feeling was forming in the pit of his stomach as he made his way inside past the flying seekers. Starscream saw him running and transformed into his root mode to greet him. 

"Soundwave! How nice of you to join the party. He's curently locked in battle. Goodluck." the red seeker snickered as he flew off, jet engines roaring. 

The sight that greeted Soundwave was something he wasn't prepared for. Just from the entrance he could feel that Megatronus was seething with hatred. He saw a bot that closely resembled Orion Pax. Except this mech was built like a warrior and not some nerd. 

"Megatronus!" Soundwave yelled but was still ignored. It was like they were on their own little world. Narrowing his optics, he could see that they were arguing about something. He tried to get closer, evading stray blaster shots from the two. A graze to his helm and frame here and there and eventually he reached them close enough to notice two bots hiding in the corner. A medic and the Chief Archivist. He ducked and tumbled towards the two, in hopes that they could help him understand the situation. 

Seeing the Decepticon insignia on Soundwave's chest, Ratchet saw a conveniently placed blaster nearby and picked it up. The spy saw him and immediately slapped the gun away from his servo before the medic even had the chance to point it at him. 

"Desist. Soundwave: not going to hurt you." 

"Shut up Decepticon!" Ratchet spat back. However, Alpha Trion just placed a placating hand on the medic's shoulder and spoke in a gentle manner.

"Now now, let's hear him out Ratchet. I believe this young man has the same goal as ours…at the moment."

"Affirmative. Query: who is that?" 

Alpha Trion glanced at Optimus briefly and returned his gaze to Soundwave. The smile he showed was definitely sad, something he would see on a mech who was suffering on the inside. 

"I think you know who. And I think it's fate that someone like you is here to help me stop this needless destruction right now." 

"You know me?" Alarmed, Soundwave glared at the old man. No way in Pit does this rusting bolt of a mech could possibly recognize him. He was always careful whenever he visited Iacon for espionage purposes. In fact, this was the only moment they interacted. 

"Forgive me but I cannot tell you how I know." He chuckled. Soundwave did not find it funny. Instead, he used the said aforementioned abilities and overwhelmed the mech with his EMF. Strangely, Alpha Trion only winced for a bit while Ratchet was on all fours, distressed. 

"What the– urgh!" Ratchet groaned, he couldn't move. Every metal in his body felt extremely heavy. Alpha Trion raised his servos to show defeat, but Soundwave directed all his energy on the mysterious Scribe now. The chief archivist was now feeling the effects in his body. Even if deca-vorns of experience had made his mind and spark resilient from any kind of psychic attack, Soundwave's will was firm and absolute. 

"Stop! I'll tell you how if you help us but we need to stop them first. They're not supposed to kill each other, we need to correct this or else both of them will offline." 

Alpha Trion groaned in pain as he tried to stand up. Quick to react, Ratchet supported him as best as he can while Soundwave only stared at Megatronus' opponent. 

"This does not make any sense. My new collegue would call this illogical. Query: How did Orion get upgraded?"

"The Matrix of Leadership is a complex artifact young one, it will do whatever it takes to better fulfill its role, even a total reformation of its holder's frame." 

Ratchet made a noise that Soundwave could only describe as disbelief. 

"You mean to tell me that's not Orion anymore?! Alpha Trion what have you done…" the medic exclaimed. Soundwave vented, looked back at the two and then the whole chamber. He noticed that there were only a few cybertronians left in the room; most of them were there against their will, either unable to escape the firefight or too terrified to move. 

"Operation: Pacification."

After Ratchet told him everything that has happened, Soundwave hurriedly devised his plan. Since both of them were clearly some kind of monsters in their own league (although he had beaten Megatronus once ) the Prime was an unknown variable thus the two Autobots would handle him. Soundwave would use his power to suppress Megatronus only since he cannot know for certain if his abilities would work on the Prime. Of course this was not the first time he had tried to use this empathic abilities on his friend. On the first day of their fight, thankfully not a fight to the death, he instantly tried to use it to him and yet Megatronus had overpowered his will.

Somehow, he knew this would happen. Not Orion transforming into this powerful warrior, but the fact that they both had a different idea on how to change Cybertron was something that Soundwave predicted would put a tear in their relationship.

He signalled to the two of them that he was in position. Megatronus doesnt seem to be aware of his surroundings, his sole focus on the Prime only. Soundwave hid behind a rubble and waited for the perfect opportunity to touch the back of Megatronus' helm. The closer he was to the target the more effective his abilities would work. 

Finally, the Prime had managed to push his opponent back to Soundwave's location. The spy jumped out and firmly gripped Megatronus' helm with both of his servos.

Startled, Optimus almost landed a hit on Megatronus' vulnerable form but a yell from his friend was enough to snap him from his stupor. The Prime's fist was so close on Megatronus' face that a simple push would connect it. Optimus vented, letting out a breath that he hadn't noticed he was holding. 

"Sound…wave?" Megatronus dropped down to his knees, he desperately tried to pry the servos gripping on his head but exhaustion was catching up to his frame. Optimus averted his gaze, unable to see him in this state. Instead he looked at Ratchet, who was currently running towards him. Alpha Trion was trailing behind, surveying the damage done on the surroundings. 

Megatronus finally lost his consciousness. Soundwave caught him right before he fell. He swiftly took his arm and wrapped it around his shoulder to carry him out. Before retreating, Soundwave glared at the three of them, especially at Optimus. The Prime had the audacity to look apologetic, the spy mused. He then turned his attention on the old man. 

"Well? How did you know about my abilities?" 

"I think you have more pressing matters at hand, no?" The innocently placed smiled in Alpha Trion's face annoyed Soundwave so much he wanted to pull that long beard. He enveloped the general vicinity with his murderous intent. Optimus Prime took a step between them and his former mentor. The prime's optics trailed down to Megatronus. 

"Tell him–"

"You've told him enough Optimus Prime ." Soundwave snapped, cutting him off. He adjusted his grip and carried his friend towards the exit, not sparing a glance at them. He sent out a commlink for the rest of the High Command to be ready for their return. As they reached the doors to the entrance, he noticed Megatronus stir. Outside these walls, he could hear cybertronians chanting his name. Soundwave heard it as well. 

Megatronus removed himself from Soundwave and groaned. His whole body was sore from that fight. He hadn't fought like that in a while. In fact, he didn't expect to fight this much on this very cycle. To be fair, a lot of things happened that he didn't expect. 

"Soundwave: Apologizes." 

Megatronus gave his friend a sheepish smile and clasped his shoulder reassuringly, giving it a little shake as he spoke. 

"No I…I'm sorry I worried you. I just, I can't–" Megatronus' current expression was something that Soundwave never wanted to see. Coolant was forming on his friend's optics, he couldn't even find the right words to say at this moment but Soundwave understood. 

"Let's talk later." He clasped the servo on his shoulder, gently squeezing it. Soundwave turned his gaze on the voices outside. It was peculiar, the voices chanting his friend's name was odd. He doesn't know if it's because of the chaos outside but everyone was chanting the same mantra.

"All Hail Megatron!" the Decepticons outside cried repeatedly. 

Megatronus retracted his servo from Soundwave's. He faced the door and smiled, the distant look on his optics worried him.

"Megatron…rolls off the glossa easier." the Decepticon leader said under his breath. Soundwave kneeled in front of him and spoke. 

"All Hail Megatron."

~ 

As Shockwave made his way to their supposed war room, his thoughts wander to the designs for his arm. Also the fact that he was invited in this meeting in the first place even though he's a non-combatant personnel. The scientist thought his only role in the Decepticon army was to be a weapons engineer at best, or their resident scientist at least. It did not escape him that more and more work was coming his way, not that it bothered him. It was nothing he couldn't handle. 

Datapad on his singular hand, Shockwave entered the room. Everyone else was present except for Soundwave and Megatron. Based on the report the cassette deployer had sent, it seems unexpected things had put some setbacks in their plans. Shockwave must admit that Orion's absence was something he wouldn't mind but he was, in some capacity, grateful to him since he was the one who gave him another chance at life. 

According to the list of personnel he got, the cons that were present at this meeting was Hook, Thundercracker, Skywarp, Starscream, Soundwave, and of course Lord Megatron himself. The seekers were sitting next to each other but none of them particularly greeted or acknowledged him. Thundercracker was busy reading something while Skywarp was busy bothering Thundercracker. Starscream raised an eyeridge at him for a moment before busying himself to tinker with his null ray gun. Hook just nodded in his direction and gestured for him to sit down next to him. 

"Even if I told you that you should still be resting, I feel like you wouldn't follow me anyways" Hook sighed, leaning his chin on his servo. 

"A logical assumption." Shockwave replied as he sat down next to him. A couple of breems later Megatron entered the room, followed by Soundwave. Everyone stood up from their seats to salute their glorious leader. Shockwave noticed the same tired look from Jhiaxus in Megatron. No. Tired wasn't accurate. In fact, he looked miserable? The scientist's interest in his leader quickly dissipated as his optic met with Soundwave's. He nodded slightly in Shockwave's direction, much like how Hook had greeted him. 

"I'm glad all of you could make it here, despite some inconveniences." Megatron said as his optic trailed down to Shockwave's missing arm. The scientist paid no mind to it and just waited for him to continue. "First order of business, I am officially assigning everyone in this room their role in this upcoming war." 

Megatron gestured for all of them to sit down. Soundwave took the only available seat next to Shockwave. While sitting down, the two of them shared another eye contact only this time the cassette deployer felt… awkward . He decided to nod again. Shockwave nodded in response as well, not really aware of the other's unease.

"The Autobots have gained another Prime. The false Primes have all come and go but Optimus Prime is different, but that doesn't mean that our goal would change. No, we need to show them that our faction would be united now more than ever. I don't care even if he’s Prima’s Incarnate himself, the Prime still represents the old regime, a regime that we must topple over."

Megatron stood straight, servos behind his back as he continued. 

"As of this moment, Starscream will be my second-in-command. You will all formally address him as Air Commander Starscream, is that understood?" 

"Yes, Lord Megatron." Everyone responded simultaneously. Starscream dramatically bowed in front of everyone. Shockwave could feel the same level of distrust he received emanating from the silent mech next to him. Soundwave's visors were fixated on the SIC as he clenched a single servo underneath the table. 

"Shockwave and Soundwave will be my Third in command. You will all address them formally as Lieutenant." 

It was Shockwave's turn to feel awkward. He supposed it made sense now why he was invited to this meeting. It seemed to him that this was news to his fellow Lieutenant as well. The two of them shared their third awkward eye contact for this cycle. Soundwave was first to break away when he heard Starscream's snide comment.

"Oh wow, you two get to share. How cute." The three seekers snickered at the two of them. Soundwave wasn't shy to let them know of his opinion. The spy wished that he could shoot Starscream's irritating mouth. He turned his helm to Megatron, expecting an explanation later. 

Megatron just pinched the bridge of his nose and verbally reprimanded the seeker. "Commander Starscream, the reason that you're currently in that position was only because of your reputation in Vos. Treat your fellow officers with respect." 

The red flier scoffed at the remark but chose to say nothing. The Decepticon leader continued. "You two will obviously work under him" Megatron pointed at Thundercracker and Skywarp "and Hook will now work directly under Shockwave." 

After finalizing their rosters and ranks on their secure database. Megatron proceeded to discuss his plans for the future. Shockwave listened. Despite his indifference to the actual war itself, he wanted to do his job properly. So like a good little soldier he accepted every reasonable request Megatron asked of him. When the meeting ended, everyone else left the room except for him and his fellow Lieutenant. Shockwave was just finishing up with his notes while Soundwave intentionally stayed.

A servo was extended in front of the scientist. Shockwave looked up at Soundwave's expressionless face. He cocked his helm at the side, clearly confused at this action. 

"If I am not mistaken, you are either offering your servo for a handshake or you're just showing it to me for no reason. Illogical."

"Recommendation: Accept Soundwave's official peace offering. It hasn't gone unnoticed that you have also taken half of my workload." 

Shockwave set the datapad down on the table. Slowly, he clasped his servo with his into a firm handshake and let it go immediately, hyper-aware of their first pleasant contact. 

"Thank you." Soundwave said in his most neutral voice as he left the room first. Shockwave stood still for a moment as he slowly re-evaluated his every opinion on Soundwave. 

~

The civil war that started on that fateful day lasted for deca-vorns. Shockwave almost lost count of the cycles that they had been battling Autobots. Almost. It had become apparent to the scientist that this war would last for a longer period of time than he had anticipated, and yet he had found himself still within the highest ranks of the Decepticons.

"Shockwave, report." 

Lord Megatron has entered the hangar the scientist was currently working in. Of course his ever loyal little soldier was trailing behind him. Soundwave was busy reading a datapad when he stepped inside, only sparing a respectful glance at the scientist. Shockwave saluted with his one good hand to his leader, his cannon arm resting on its side. Megatron squinted at Shockwave's current project, The Nemesis. 

"My liege, the ship will be completed in seven cycles. The main hull was finished yesterday but I'm still working on its engines, of course I would need to install weapons as well. There is the matter of energon as well…" 

Gone was the mech that Shockwave saw at his first meeting as the TIC of the Decepticons. The Megatron before him was different. Not physically, but he noticed how easily he got angry these past few vorns. This anger became worse when word got out that the Autobots were planning to escape the planet. 

"Relay all the materials you will need to Soundwave. The Ark will be leaving soon. Work faster."  Megatron slammed his pedes as he left. Soundwave handed him the latest intelligence from the enemy. The mech was right, since he was pretty much going against the most brilliant scientific minds in Cybertron, the Ark would be leaving in three cycles. 

"New orders from Lord Megatron: Soundwave will assist Shockwave." 

~

The scientist didn't like to admit it but his fellow lieutenant was an excellent assistant. In fact, he was so good at following his orders that he can see why Megatron kept Soundwave on his side for so long as he did. Shockwave also learned about Soundwave's programming skills which advanced their timetable immensely. The two of them worked in perfect comfortable silence. While Shockwave was working on the turrets outside, Soundwave was inside, doing adjustments on the Nemesis' AI. 

Shockwave noticed his HUD ping. It was a commlink from Soundwave. 

[Request for downtime?] 

The scientist was puzzled at this. They have been working for two cycles together and whenever Soundwave needed to rest he would just inform him. Shockwave paused for a klik to reply, but Soundwave beat him to it. 

[Clarification: Shockwave needs downtime. You have been working non-stop with little to no breaks.] 

His confusion turned into amusement. After all that he has done for this war effort, it was illogical that Soundwave was underestimating him now. Clearly, he knew his own limitations and his fellow lieutenant did not. 

[The Nemesis will be flight worthy in one more cycle, enough for us to catch up to the Ark. I will not rest now.] 

Shockwave continued his work, awaiting the other to reply. After a couple of breems, when it became clear to him that Soundwave has nothing more to say he sent a commlink to Megatron to report their progress. Another ping in his HUD, his leader replied immediately but the message irked him. 

[This is a direct order Shockwave, get down from there and rest. I will not have Hook take care of you again. We are low on medics right now. Do not be stubborn.] 

The scientist looked around and sure enough Megatron was grumbling to himself. As soon as their gazes met, Shockwave assured him that he would go down immediately. The Decepticon leader proceeded to exit the hangar, not bothering to wait for his TIC. When the scientist finally exited the Nemesis, Soundwave was already sitting by a workbench next to an energon dispenser. The cassette deployer was tinkering on something when he noticed Shockwave's passive-aggressive stomping.

Shockwave was about to speak when he heard something transform on the table. Two identical minicons were standing on the workbench.

"Phew! thanks for the little maintenance Boss, that was bothering me a little." Frenzy said in a cheery voice.

"Uh oh, creep incoming." Rumble snorted. The cassetticons jumped down from the table as they laughed. "See ya Boss!" They raced each other towards the exit with so much energy that Shockwave felt tired just from watching them. 

Soundwave finally faced his fellow officer, legs crossed and his back sitting in a relaxing manner. Shockwave still cannot determine what Soundwave thought of him. There were times that he was giving him the respect he deserved and then there were times that he was treating him like some kind of idiot. Despite all that, he must admit that Soundwave has earned his respect. 

He thought about the conversation he had with Hook as he received both of their comms. Was this what he meant by that? Was he about to cause another bodily harm towards himself? Shockwave has decided to ignore the mech before him and head straight for the energon dispenser. When he got his energon cube he sat on the only available space next to Soundwave. Both of them were quiet, clearly blue mech was waiting for something because he was casually staring at his face. 

Shockwave decided to break their silence and confront him. 

"What are you looking at?" he said in a monotone voice. Soundwave kept his silence, not bothering to avert his gaze or move at all. Ignoring him again, the scientist raised his cube near his face to drink. The cassette deployer slowly leaned forward, visor brightening in excitement. Surprised, Shockwave put his servo to a sudden stop.

This bastard…

"You are curious how I take my energon. I will show you if you tell me how you know so much about advanced programming. Did you use your special abilities?"

Soundwave made a tsk sound and straightened up, putting some distance between them.  Visor dimming, he quietly spoke. 

"Soundwave: A good spy. And a good spy never reveals their secrets." 

Shockwave stood up and replied. "Then you will never know this one particular secret Lieutenant Soundwave." The scientist walked towards the exit, all the irritation he felt towards him was strangely gone. Try as he might, his habsuite was Soundwave-proof and both of them knew this. Knowing his reputation and role in Megatron's army, Soundwave wouldn't dare to use his abilities on him as well since it wouldn't be as beneficial as he thinks.

As the door closed with a hiss, Soundwave's gaze lingered. He stood up as well, a grin hidden behind his mask as he told himself.

"Someday." 

~ 

The time for departure was almost near. Megatron was currently in the battlefield, one last attempt to stop Optimus Prime from leaving Cybertron. He was about to board the Nemesis when he noticed an urgent comms from Starscream. It seemed that Optimus was already aboard the Ark and the Autobots currently engaging Megatron were a distraction. The Decepticon leader was on his way back from battle. 

When Megatron reached the hangar, he could see half of their best fighting forces were currently boarding the ship. Starscream, Shockwave, and Soundwave were all waiting for him. The Decepticon leader took in the sight of the Nemesis. A magnificent creation born from the mind of a mad man. Truly an imposing vehicle fit for him. 

He couldn't afford someone like Shockwave to get needlessly shot in battle. No, he had to stay and take care of things Megatron thought. The look on Shockwave's face as he told him to stay behind was understandable. 

Shockwave's singular optic blazed in anger for a brief moment. Megatron knew the mech had been dying to leave the planet even before he joined the Decepticons. This was as close as he could get to see Shockwave show some form of emotion again he thought.

"I will be appointing you as the Guardian of Cybertron Shockwave, eliminating the rest of the Autobot pests."

"...Yes, Lord Megatron."

"You will rebuild. I will not be returning to a wasteland. We will contact you as soon as we are done with the mission." 

Megatron was last to board the ship. Soundwave was looking at Shockwave's bowing form. He couldn't help but notice how his single fist clenched and trembled but other than that the one-eyed mech was eerily still. 

Shockwave was alone again. 

Present…

Soundwave buried his face in Shockwave's neck to hide. His other arm was currently locked in an embrace, gently caressing the scientist's helm while his other servo was entertwined with his, clinging to it like his life depended on it. Soundwave could feel the worry in his beloved's EM field so he let out a hot breath to try and calm himself down. Shockwave's worry began to dissapate and instead turn into poorly hidden arousal. 

"Soundwave…" the purple mech moaned. 

The scientist mind was churning with questions but more importantly why was Soundwave crying? Did he do something wrong? But it was beginning to be a challenge for him to focus since Soundwave's spike was still inside him and it doesn't help that he's breathing in his neck right now. Shockwave opted to move his cannon arm instead to pat the spy's back as comforting as he could. 

Soundwave must've realized what was happening. As much as he wanted to interface again they both knew that they had more pressing matters to attend to. He raised his helm and finally faced the mech under him. Shockwave was looking at him with such endearment that he felt his spark burst. The scientist was purposely trying to wiggle his antennae to cheer him up which elicited a smile from the spy's face. Even if he wanted to hold his hand more, he removed himself on top of him and closed his panel. Soundwave laid down next to his cannon arm and sighed. Shockwave placed a gentle servo on his faceplate and gave him a questioning tilt. The worry from earlier was back again so he reassured him immediately. 

"Soundwave: functional and okay. It's just…" the blue mech looked away. Once he admitted that he now knew about some of his guarded secrets, Shockwave might change his mind about him. He wasn't intentionally trying to pry into his mind but Soundwave thought it was peculiar that his abilities activated even if he wasn't holding Shockwave's helm with both of his servos; that was the conditions for his telepathy to activate. Unless…

"I need to confess something to you." he gently removed the hand on his face. Shockwave was hurt from that but chose to say nothing and waited for him to speak once more. 

"Soundwave's abilities: upgraded…I'm not sure how but when our helms met, I saw…everything."

The scientist's singular optic brightened in fascination, then dimmed in horror. Shockwave sat up immediately and moved away. Shame covered his whole frame as he curled in on himself. How could he have not foreseen this possibility? As much as he wanted to run some tests on Soundwave right now he was currently busy feeling betrayed.  He knew it was illogical to feel this way because he could see the sincerity in Soundwave's optics but it hurt so much that he didn't know how else to react. 

"I'm sorry! This was unintended, I never meant to find out this way." Soundwave said as he tried to reach him. The desperation on the spy's voice only made the pain in his spark worse.  Shockwave's own words before he kissed him replayed in his mind. 

If it's him maybe it would be worth it.

He supposed this was the price he must pay for loving Soundwave.

Shockwave's frame trembled when Soundwave held him. Despite that confession, he still couldn't hate him. The scientist slowly melted in his embrace, leaning his helm on Soundwave's shoulder as he quietly sobbed.  

When he calmed down, Shockwave broke away from him, optic refusing to meet Soundwave's eyes. 

"I don't want pity from you Soundwave." The purple mech mumbled. The cassette deployer gently turned his helm and replied.

"I'm not pitying you…Soundwave: overwhelmed with emotions. You have been through a lot and seeing those memories affected me deeply. I love you Shockwave."

The spy gave his scientist a gentle kiss on the top of his helm and wiped some of the coolant in his optic. He held his servo once more and gently squeezed it. 

"For what it's worth, Soundwave: will never leave you."

Shockwave's antennae wiggled in embarrassment, clearly still unused from all these affection. His fellow TIC decided to lighten the mood by joking.

"I know how you drink your energon now." the blue mech winked at him. Shockwave gave him a playful smack at his helm using his cannon arm which unfortunately left a small dent in Soundwave's forehead.