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Chapter Text

Quintessa, an icon of beauty. A Mistress to magic. Creator of Cybertronians. And...

I'M SO BORED!!! UGH! Quintessa shouted as she fell on her fainting couch.  

...lover of pain and sorrow... Quintessa acts like a savior, but in reality she is a HUGE Sadistic Slag-eating Fragging Burnout Glitch!  

Eons ago. Two super giants crashed together causing a huge Supernova which gave birth to Quintessa. She floated around, trying to figure out her powers. She decided to try her powers out on a Ice giant and on a gas giant. She started with the gas giant. It was a big orange and sliver ringed planet with a giant hole. Quintessa zapped the planet and it transformed into a robot.The robot had purple optics, orange Blackface ram styled horns, sliver mustache and beard, clawed hands and feet, orange and sliver armor, gray rock like wings, and he had two orange rings around his head. Quintessa was amazed at her very first creation. She decides to call him Unicron. 

She turned to the ice giant, it's a blue-grey and dark gray ringed planet. She zapped the ice giant and it transformed into a robot as well. This robot has bright blue optics, red chestplate, his neck guard and mid-section plating was black, his gauntlets are gray, his servos are blue-gray, his digits are gray, his waist and legs are blue-gray, his thigh guards and ankle guards are gray, gray rock like wings, and he had two blue rings around his head. Quintessa decided to call him Primus.

Unicron looked at Primus and Primus looked at him. Primus smiled at Unicron and Unicron... bit him... seemingly trying to decide if he was food or not. Primus squealed and started scolding Unicorn. Quintessa knew that she was going to have a lot of fun with them and she did. She also quickly found out that Unicron likes eating, like anything, even planets. Watching him choke on parts of planets always made Quintessa laugh, then Primus would try to help Unicron and he would scold Unicron. She genuinely enjoyed having them around... then they decided she was "cruel" and became a planet called Cybertron. Which is boring if you ask her, but she rolled with it. She experimented and created a race she gleefully called "Cybertronians".

And eons later her creations were boring her. The Autobot-Decepticon War was having a standstill, which always made her so bored, which then made her annoyed. She hated being bored. So she called her three Sharkticons generals; Blacktip, Viper, and Karcharos. 

Like usually, Blacktip was slightly hunched and trembling. Blacktip was one of her favs, mostly because how easy and fun it was to scare him. She could flick nothing at him and he would flinch. He's a decent fighter and looked cute. As his name suggests, all his fins are pitch black, which is a good look for him. 

Viper is also one of her favs. She has a hand on her hip, clearly bored which she can relate too. She's sassy, practical, and snappy. She has a few things that make her different from the other Sharkticons; she's the shortest and fastest, she's almost all pitch black, and unlike the others, in her Cybertronian form she has fangs. She's definitely fun.

And finally... her most prized Sharkticon, Karcharos. He has his arms crossed, waited obediently for her command. Karcharos is bigger, badder, and meaner than all the other Sharkticons. He is mostly white and blue. He has always been... strong-willed, especially when he was first made. He actually had the audacity to raise his voice at her, which she quickly "talked" to him about, and now he's such a good boy. He never raises his voice, ever.

All three Sharkticons bowed before her. My dear Sharkticons. I have a mission for you guys. Take the Sharkticon army and... kill everyone in Simanzi. Quintessa said that in such a happy tone. Karcharos and Viper quickly nodded, but Blacktip felt... terrified. Everyone? Even the sparklings? Blacktip spoke in a meek tone while trying to cry. Even the sparklings? Quintessa smile grew. Yes. Blacktip was shocked. He didn't want to killed sparklings, he doesn't even want to kill adults, even the mean adults! But he doesn't have a choice... so like the other two, he nodded. Quintessa laughed and sent them on their way.

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Two hours later in downtown Simanzi

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Is it on? Is it? It's on? Okay, okay. Hello, Fellow Cybertronians! I'm Rook, and you're watching the 'Around Cybertron' on ABN. I'm live in downtown Simanzi where the store 'Howler's Wheelnutz' have been awarded best Wheelnutz on Cybertron! The owner is giving away free Wheelnutz for the entire week! So if you're in a Wheelnutz mood, you better-

Loud screams and wailing sparklings interrupt Rook. After a few seconds bots started to run through the streets. They were were panicking and pushing each other. Rook ran over to a fallen femme who had a giant gash in her side. Rook covered the gash and tried to stay calm while talking to the crying femme. Ma'am! Are you okay? What happened? Why is everyone running? What happened to your side?

The femme started hyperventilate and cry more. Rook hugged her and rubbed her back as the cameramech patched her up. Rook spoke in a soothing tone. Please... what's happening? 

The femme finally screamed. The Sharkticons! They-they! They came out of nowhere and started killing everyone! Even the sparklings! 

Rook's faceplates darken and his optics widened. He looked at his cameramech, Sparkwar. We need to go! Now! Rook picked up the femme and started to run.

Sparkwar shouted to Rook. Leave the damn femme! She's slowing you down! She's probably going to die anyways! Just drop her! Rook kicks Sparkwar. No fragging way! She needs us! Why don't you drop your slagging camera! Sparkwar was about to yell at Rook when a giant axe split him in half. Rook turned around to see a giant Sharkticon behind them, and not just any Sharkticon, Karcharos, the White Death.

Karcharos raises his axe and Rook shield's the femme. Before Karcharos could bring down the axe, a hammer uppercuts him causing the him to be thrown backwards. Karcharos slams his axe down on the ground to stop himself, he skids for several feet, leaving a large line in the ground. When he finally stops, he looks up and at his attacker. He let's out a deep and throaty growl when he sees that his attacker is Ultra Magnus.

Ultra Magnus shouts at Rook and the femme, telling them run. Ultra Magnus turns to Karcharos. I've heard about you.

Have you now? Karcharos growls as they start to circle each other. What have you heard?

You're Karcharos. The biggest and most vicious Sharkticon to have ever been created. The "White Death". Ultra Magnus pauses before continuing. Which is weird. 

Karcharos raises an optical ridge. Oh? How so? Karcharos asks while still circling Ultra Magnus. After a few seconds of silence, Karcharos is completely caught off guard when he sees Ultra Magnus smirk. Karcharos saw Ultra Magnus as a mech who always has a stoic expression. Seeing Ultra Magnus smile was... a bit unnerving surprising to say the least.

Ultra Magnus crossed his arms and looked at Karcharos. If you're so big and vicious then... what's with the scars on your face and the dead optic? Karcharos froze at Ultra Magnus's sentence. Ultra Magnus smirk widened. Pinched a fuel line? 

Karcharos roared and charged at Ultra Magnus. Ultra Magnus twirled his hammer as he charged at Karcharos. Karcharos swung his axe at Ultra Magnus's head, Ultra Magnus dodges and uses his hammer to knock the axe out of the sharkticon's hands. Karcharos punches Ultra Magnus and grabs his axe. Ultra Magnus is thrown back a few feet and is knocked down. Karcharos tries to slam the axe blade down on Ultra Magnus's chest, but Ultra Magnus rolls out of the way and gets up. 

I won't let you harm anyone else. Ultra Magnus says before running at Karcharos and slamming him with his hammer. Karcharos blocks him with his axe, Ultra Magnus is pushed back but quickly charges back and jumps up and tries to land on the sharkticon's head. Karcharos dodges and Ultra Magnus lands on the ground and tries to sweep the sharkticon's legs. Karcharos punches him in the neck. Ultra Magnus falls to the ground, his neck feels like it's going to snap. He struggles to get back up. Karcharos goes to chop his head off when Optimus Prime shows up. Optimus quickly unsheathes his axe and blocks the attack, pushing Karcharos away from Ultra Magnus. Optimus then attacks Karcharos with a flurry of strikes, forcing the sharkticon to retreat.

Ultra Magnus watches as Optimus Prime fights Karcharos and send him running, he tries to get up but his neck is still hurting. Optimus Prime notices that Ultra Magnus is injured and is trying to get up. He runs over to Ultra Magnus. Optimus kneels down beside his brother and helps him up. Are you alright, Ultra Magnus? Optimus asks. Ultra Magnus leans on Optimus. My neck hurts, but I'm fine. Optimus helps Ultra Magnus stand up straight and gently touches his neck. I think you may have suffered a minor injury. We should get you to Ratchet for a proper checkup. Optimus says.

Karcharos sneaks up and tries to slash Optimus. Optimus Prime senses Karcharos's attack and quickly dodges out of the way. He then turns around and delivers a powerful kick to Karcharos's chest, sending him flying backwards. Optimus then raises his axe and points it at Karcharos. You will not harm my brother again. Optimus says firmly. Karcharos growls loudly. Optimus remains calm and composed, not letting Karcharos's aggression get to him. He keeps his sword pointed at the sharkticon, ready to defend himself and his brother if necessary. Karcharos growls loudly, but retreats for good. Optimus watches as Karcharos retreats. He lowers his axe and turns to face Ultra Magnus. Let's get you to Ratchet now. Optimus says. Optimus orders two Autobots to carry Ultra Magnus to Ratchet back at base.

Hound runs up to Optimus Prime with two crying sparklings in his arms. Optimus Prime turns to face Hound. He looks at the sparklings in his arms and his expression softens. Hound. Why do you have two sparklings? Optimus asks, concerned. Hound looks at Optimus Prime with a sad look. The Sharkticons killed their parents... Optimus Prime's heart sinks as he hears this news. He takes a deep breath and looks at the sparklings, feeling their pain. Poor things. Optimus says softly. I'm so sorry for your loss. I promise we will do everything we can to protect you. Get the them to the Autobot base for an immediate check-up, now. Hound nods and runs away.

Kup runs up to Optimus Prime. Optimus! Have you seen Blurr?! Optimus turns to face Kup. No, I haven't seen Blurr. Why? Is something wrong? Optimus asks, concerned.

Blurr runs up to them with a newly-born sparkling in his arms. Optimus! More Sharkticons are coming! Optimus's eyes widen as he sees the newborn sparkling in Blurr's arms. We have to stop them. Optimus says, quickly assessing the situation. Where are they attacking? Blurr shouts. Everywhere! Their killing everyone! Even the sparklings! Optimus's expression turns grim. We can't let them continue to do this. We have to act now. Blurr, take the sparkling to safety. Kup, gather the rest of the Autobots and prepare for battle. Optimus says, issuing orders. Yes, sir. Blurr dashes away. Optimus watches as Blurr disappears into the distance, then turns to Kup. Let's move out. Optimus says. We have innocent lives to protect. Optimus and Kup lead the Autobots towards the site of the attack. As they approach, they can hear the sounds of battle and see the destruction caused by the Sharkticons. The Autobots prepare for the fight, ready to defend their home and protect the innocent.

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Present cycle

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Optimus is walking through the the caverns of Cybertron's crust. He walks until he finds a femme with green armor trapped in rock and vines. Optimus spoke in a soft tone. Codexa? Codexa let's out a hmm of acknowledgement. I need your help. The Autobot-Decepticon War has been going on for a while now and... there seems to be no end and I was wondering if you had any advice to give. Codexa spoke in a hushed tone. Sometimes the best ideas come from a blank slate. Codexa falls back asleep, leaving Optimus confused. Blank slate? What does that mean? Optimus says goodbye and leaves the caverns. He goes back to the Autobot base.

Optimus Prime walks into Autobot base and he is greeted by several Autobots. They all ask him how he is, how his walk was, what he's going to do next.

Optimus let out a sigh and spoke in a tired tone. My apologies but I cannot stay and chat. I must go to my quarters and rest. I hope you all have a wonderful night. And with that Optimus left and went to his quarters. He sat on his berth and started to think about what Codexa said "Sometimes the best ideas come from a blank slate." What did she mean by that? Optimus thought out loud, and accidentally waking up Stripes who was asleep. Whoops... sorry Stripes. Stripes yawned and stretched. Optimus chuckled. Still tired? Stripes curled up into a ball and fell back asleep. I guess that answers my question. Optimus chuckled and laid down. Optimus continues to think about what Codexa said. After a few minutes he got an idea. He went to his office and calls Kup, Blurr, Ratchet, Jazz, Hound, Warpath, The Wreckers, and The Throttlebots to his office. Once everyone was in his office, he quickly started talking. Autobots!

Yes, sir! Kup, Blurr, Jazz, Hound, Warpath, The Wreckers, and The Throttlebots all saulted Optimus Prime, while Ratchet glared at him.

I have an idea-

That couldn't have waited until the morning. Ratchet says in an annoyed tone

My apologies Ratchet, I know you haven't slept much lately, but it couldn't. Optimus goes back to talking to everyone. I have a plan to defeat the Decepticons once and for all. We will go to a new planet and set a trap for the Decepticons. Throttlebots, you guys will scout out the land. Wreckers, you will partner up with Throttlebots to protect them from any hostile locals. The rest of us will come up with a plan to trap the Decepticons. Sound good?

Yes, sir! Kup, Blurr, Ratchet, Jazz, Hound, Warpath, The Wreckers, and The Throttlebots all saulted Optimus Prime. 

Galactica has agreed to transport us, so everyone pack, and be at dock 57B in 3 hours. Everyone quickly left. Optimus immediately started to pack. He pack everything he felt was need and organized it. Stripes whined and rubbed against Optimus. Optimus sighed, and pack some of Stripes things too. They were about to head out when Stripes ran and grabbed two pictures, two incredibly important pictures. Optimus took them from Stripes and smiled at them before putting them in his subspace. 

Everyone met at the dock. It's pitch black outside, so everyone is trying their best to stay quiet. Optimus took role call before everyone got on the ship. However before it could take off, Ravage came out of his hiding spot and put a tracker on the ship. He watched as the ship took off. He looked over up at a nearby building, where two bright red optics can be seen, the figured smiled, their teeth are so white that they can be seen in the dark. A brief flash of lightning illuminated the figure who is none other than... Starscream.

Chapter Text

Starscream chuckled to himself as he watched the Autobot ship take off, knowing that his tracker was now attached to it. He leaped down from the building and landed with a soft thud, his optics gleaming with excitement. Heh, looks like the Autobots are on the move. He said to himself, a smirk on his face. And they're none the wiser about our little gift. Starscream chuckled again, clearly amused by his own cleverness. He activated his comms and spoke into it. Soundwave, I have a visual on the Autobot ship. I've attached a tracker to it, and it's on the move. Keep an optic on their location and let me know if they make any unexpected stops.

Soundwave responded through the comms, his voice calm and mechanical. Acknowledged, Starscream. I'm tracking the ship's movements now. I'll keep you updated on their location and any changes in their course.

Starscream continued to watch the Autobot ship as it disappeared into the night sky, a satisfied look on his face. He knew that the Decepticons now had the upper hand, and that the Autobots were unaware of the tracker that was now on their ship. This is going to be fun. He said to himself, a sinister grin spreading across his face.

Megatron is heard on Soundwave's end. Is that Starscream? 

Soundwave replied to Megatron's question, his voice still emotionless. Affirmative, Lord Megatron. It is Starscream. He has successfully attached a tracker to the Autobot ship.

Starscream, you need to come back to base, now. Megatron said sternly, leaving no room for argument. No lollygagging. I mean it.

Starscream huffed at Megatron's command, but he knew better than to disobey his leader. Fine, I'm on my way back to base. Starscream playfully pouted. But I'll have you know that I was doing important work out here.

I know, Starscream. Stop pouting, you're not in trouble. Megatron said playfully. If you were in trouble I would come get you and drag you back to base by your wings.

Starscream couldn't help but bristle at Megatron's playful comment, but he also couldn't deny that it made him feel a bit better. I'm not pouting. He protested, even though he secretly was. And I can walk back to base on my own, thank you very much.

Get over here, before I come get you. Megatron said, his tone stern making it clear that he was being completely serious.

Starscream grumbled to himself but knew better than to keep Megatron waiting. He took to the skies and headed back to base, flying as fast as he could. I'm on my way, I'm on my way. He muttered under his breath. No need to be so bossy.

Megatron hung up.

After a few minutes, Starscream landed outside the Decepticon base, still feeling a bit annoyed but also relieved to be back. He transformed into his robot mode and walked inside, heading straight for Megatron's office.

Whisper, Nightflight, Storm Cloud, and Tailwind ran up to Starscream. Starscream! 

Starscream smiled as he saw the young seekers running towards him, their eagerness evident in their steps. He knelt down to their level and ruffled their wings. Well, if it isn't my little troublemakers. He said, a hint of fondness in his voice. What have you four been up to today? All four little seekers giggled mischievously. 

Starscream chuckled, knowing that their giggles meant they were up to no good. He raised an optical ridge at them. You four are hiding something, aren't you? What mischief have you been causing this time? 

A lot. The little seekers said in unison.

Starscream shook his helm, trying to hide a smile. He knew that the little seekers were troublemakers, but he also couldn't help but find their antics amusing. Of course you have. You four are always getting into trouble. What was the latest prank you pulled? Starscream said, a hint fondness still in his voice. 

Tell him, Whisper! Tell him! Storm Cloud shouted excitedly.

Whisper looked up at Starscream, a sly grin on his face. We put glitter in Shockwave's experiments.

Starscream tried to maintain a stern expression, but he couldn't help but laugh at the mental image of Shockwave covered in glitter. You little devils. You know how much Shockwave hates glitter. Starscream chuckled and ruffled their wings again. You're going to be the death of me one day. But I have to admit, it's hard to stay mad at you four.

We're precious! The little seekers said in unison.

Starscream rolled his optics playfully. Oh, you're definitely precious. But you're also troublemakers, and I have to keep an optic on you to make sure you don't get into too much trouble.

Shockwave can be heard angrily yelling. Who in the Pit put glitter in my lab?!

Starscream couldn't help but laugh again as he heard Shockwave's angry voice. He knew that the glitter prank was going to have consequences, but it was still amusing to see Shockwave so annoyed. Looks like someone's not happy about the glitter. He said to the little seekers.

The little seekers all giggled and tried to hold back their laughter. They knew they were in trouble, but they couldn't help but find the situation funny. Whisper managed to speak through his giggles. Do you think Shockwave will find out it was us?

Starscream chuckled and shrugged. Oh, I'm sure he'll figure it out eventually. But by then, it'll be too late to do anything about it. The little seekers nodded in agreement, still giggling. They knew that they were safe for now, as long as they didn't get caught. Starscream spoke again. Just remember, don't do anything too reckless. And try not to get caught next time. Starscream gave the little seekers a stern look, trying to sound serious. I mean it. No more pranks for a while, okay? I don't want to have to explain to Megatron why Shockwave is covered in glitter. The little seekers all nodded again, this time looking a bit more solemn. They knew that they had to behave if they didn't want to get in trouble. Good. Now go play somewhere else. I have some business to attend to. The little seekers scampered off, still giggling as they went. Starscream shook his helm, a small smile on his face as he watched them go. Those little rascals.

Starscream turned to see Tarn approaching, and he couldn't help but smirk. Ah, if it isn't my favorite little puppy. What brings you here?

Tarn glared at Starscream, clearly not amused by the nickname. He spoke in his usual gruff voice. I'm not a puppy, Starscream. I'm a Decepticon.

Starscream chuckled and patted Tarn on the helm. Sure you are, puppy. But you follow Megatron around like a lost puppy, whining and growling whenever he's not around. It's adorable.

Tarn's glare intensified, but he didn't pull away from Starscream's touch. I don't whine. And I don't growl. I simply... appreciate Megatron's leadership.

Starscream raised an optical ridge, a sly grin on his face. Oh, is that what they're calling it nowadays? Appreciating leadership? You're just a little lapdog, Tarn.

Tarn clenched his servos, clearly getting more irritated by Starscream's teasing. I'm not a lapdog. I'm a feared Decepticon warrior. I have more power in one of my digits than you do in your entire frame.

Starscream snorted and crossed his arms. Oh, please. You may be a powerful Decepticon, but you're still just a little puppy at heart. And I'm the one who can take away your treats.

Tarn's optics widened in disbelief. You wouldn't dare.

Starscream smirked and leaned in closer to Tarn, his voice taking on a mocking tone. Oh, I would. I could tell Megatron all about your little puppy behavior, and he'd probably find it hilarious.

Tarn's face fell, a look of panic crossing his features. You wouldn't dare tell Megatron about this. He'd never take me seriously again.

Starscream chuckled darkly, enjoying Tarn's distress. Oh, but I would. I could make you the laughingstock of the Decepticon army. Imagine the look on Megatron's face when he finds out that his "feared" warrior is nothing more than a whiny little puppy.

Tarn clenched his servos even tighter, his voice low and dangerous. I swear, if you tell anyone about this, I'll make you regret it. I'll make you pay, Starscream.

Starscream raised an optical ridge, unfazed by Tarn's threat. Oh, I'm shaking in my boots. You can try to intimidate me all you want, but we both know that I have the upper hand here. I hold all the cards.

Tarn growled in frustration, clearly at a loss for words. He knew that Starscream was right, and there was nothing he could do to stop him from telling Megatron about his behavior.

Starscream smirked, enjoying the power he had over Tarn. He leaned in even closer, his voice taking on a sly tone. So, are you going to behave now, puppy? Or do I need to go tell Megatron that you've been misbehaving?

Tarn gritted his teeth, clearly struggling to maintain his composure. He glared at Starscream, but he didn't say anything. It was clear that he didn't want to give in, but he also didn't want to risk Starscream telling Megatron about his behavior.

Starscream chuckled, clearly amused by Tarn's struggle. He patted him on the helm again, patronizingly. That's a good puppy. Now, be a good boy and behave yourself. No more growling or whining, okay?

Tarn's face twisted in anger and humiliation, but he managed to nod reluctantly. He hated being treated like a pet, but he didn't have much of a choice.

Starscream patted his helm once again. Now, what were you going to tell me?

Tarn took a deep breath, trying to regain his composure. I was going to tell you that Megatron has requested your presence. He wants to speak with you about something.

Oh, I know. Starscream said plainly.

Tarn looked surprised. You do?

Yes, he told me earlier. Starscream said while looking at his claws.

Tarn frowned, clearly annoyed that Megatron had told Starscream before telling him. Why didn't he tell me, then?

Starscream shrugged, chuckling at Tarn's annoyance.

Tarn scowled, feeling even more irritated. He didn't like being left out of the loop, especially when it came to Megatron. Whatever. I guess I'll just have to wait until you're done with your little meeting.Tarn crossed his arms, clearly sulking. He watched as Starscream walked away, feeling a mix of anger and jealousy.

Starscream walked into Megatron's office and Megatron immediately looked up from his desk as Starscream entered the room. He raised an optical ridge, a small smirk on his face. Ah, Starscream. I see you've finally decided to join me.

I may have lollygagged a bit. Sorry, not sorry. Starscream said playfully.

Megatron chuckled, amused by Starscream's playful attitude. I see. Well, I hope you're not too tired from your little lollygagging. We have important matters to discuss. Megatron gestured for Starscream to take a seat in front of his desk. Sit down. This won't take long. Starscream sat down, crossing one leg over the other. He looked at Megatron expectantly, waiting for him to speak. Were you able to put the tracker on the Autobot's ship? Megatron said sternly. 

Starscream smirked and nodded. Of course I did. The Autobots won't even know we're tracking them.

Megatron smiled, clearly pleased with Starscream's answer. Excellent. That will make it easier for us to keep tabs on their movements.

Starscream leaned back in his chair. Where do you think the Autobots are going?

Megatron leaned back in his chair, steepling his digits together. I'm not sure, but I have my suspicions. They've been acting rather secretive lately, which makes me think they're up to something. Megatron studied Starscream for a moment, a thoughtful expression on his face. I have a feeling that whatever they're planning, it's going to be big. We need to be prepared for anything. Anyways... I don't have any more orders for you at the moment. You're dismissed. Megatron watched as Starscream got up to leave. Just before he reached the door, Megatron spoke again. Oh, and Starscream?

Starscream turned around. Yes?

Megatron smirked. Keep up the good work. And try not to lollygag too much next time.

Starscream playfully rolled his optics. 

Megatron chuckled again, amused by Starscream's attitude. He waved a hand dismissively. You're free to go now. I have some business to attend to.

Starscream waved. Bye-bye.

Megatron chuckled again, this time more quietly. Goodbye, Starscream. Remember what I said about lollygagging.

Starscream walks out of Megatron's office and struts about the base. As he struts around the base, he notices Tarn watching him from a distance. Tarn looks away quickly, pretending not to have been staring. 

Hi, puppy~ Starscream said in a fake flirty tone.

Tarn scowls at the nickname, clearly annoyed. He tries to maintain his composure, but his irritation is evident in his voice. I am not a puppy.

Starscream smirks at Tarn before running off to catch up with Soundwave. Soundwave!~ 

Soundwave, who had been walking down the corridor, turns to see Starscream approaching him. He gives a small nod in greeting. Starscream. What is it?

I got tea to spill!~ Starscream chirped happily.

Soundwave raised an optical ridge, intrigued. He knew that whenever Starscream had "tea to spill," it was usually gossip or something juicy. Oh? Do tell.

Don't tell Megatron that I told you this. Starscream said in a hushed tone while still being loud. 

Soundwave nodded, his expression serious. I won't tell. Your secret is safe with me.

Starscream stared at him with a judgy look. Seriously, don't. I know you. He will turn red and get a spark attack if you tell him this.

Soundwave nodded. I understand. I will keep it to myself. He said, assuring Starscream that he would not tell Megatron.

Starscream grinned wickedly. You know Megatron's old second in command? Impactor? 

Soundwave nods again, his expression turning slightly serious. Yes, I'm familiar with Impactor. What about him?

Starscream's wings slightly fluttered in amusement. Skywarp and I were doom scrolling when we found a video of a drunk Impactor saying "Megatron can't get chicks cause he's too much of a prude".

Soundwave's visor flickers with amusement at this revelation. Oh, this is juicy. Do you have the video?

Yes, want me to send it to you? Starscream said while pulling out a data packet.

Soundwave nods eagerly. Yes, please. I need to see this video.

Starscream quickly pulls up the video. And... sent!

Soundwave receives the video and watches it intently. His expression is a mix of amusement and disbelief as he sees Impactor's drunken rant. After watching the video, Soundwave looks up at Starscream, his visor still flashing with amusement. That... was certainly interesting. I never thought I'd see Impactor like this.

Starscream's wings fluttered with amusement. You know for someone so "emotionless" you sure do love gossip.

Soundwave shrugs, his visor flashing again. I may not be as expressive as some, but I do enjoy a good bit of drama. And this is definitely juicy.

Starscream chuckled.

Soundwave chuckled along with Starscream, the two of them sharing a moment of amusement. So, do you think Megatron knows about this video?

Nuh-uh. Starscream's wings fluttered with amusement.

Soundwave's visor flashes with a hint of mischief. Then I suppose we have a secret weapon against him.

Starscream gasped. You!? Megatron's Pride and Joy?! Having a weapon against him?! I'm so disappointed in you! Starscream said playfully.

Soundwave laughed, enjoying Starscream's dramatics. Oh, don't be so shocked. Even I have my moments of rebellion. Besides, this is just a bit of harmless fun.

Starscream smirk was wiped off when he saw the Decepticons one and only medic, Corpsmen. Starscream doesn't know why, but something about him just makes him so... angry. He can't explain it, for some reason his processor says to never trust Corpsmen. Which... doesn't make sense. Corpsmen is the most typical, normal, and blandest bot ever. He's skinny and weak too. He can't even throw a punch to save his life. So why does he make him so uneasy. Starscream instinctly walked closer to Soundwave and away from Corpsmen as he passed by.

Soundwave noticed Starscream's sudden change in demeanor as he saw Corpsmen. He glanced at the medic, then back at Starscream, sensing his unease. You seem tense. Is there something wrong?

Starscream looked at Soundwave. Do you ever get a sense of... distrust from Corpsmen?

Soundwave considered the question for a moment, his visor flashing thoughtfully. Hmm, I admit that I've always found Corpsmen to be a bit... off-putting. He's a good medic, but there's something about him that makes me wary. I can't quite put my finger on it.

I don't like him. Starscream hissed.

Soundwave nodded in agreement. I don't blame you. There's something about him that just doesn't sit right with me. He's always so... unassuming. It's almost as if he's hiding something.

I always get a feeling of dread whenever he's checking or fixing me. Starscream said while crossing his arms.

Soundwave raised an optical ridge. Dread, you say? That's not a good sign. Have you ever told anyone about this feeling?

No, he's one of Megatron's oldest friends and he was his medic when he was a gladiator. Starscream pouts.

Soundwave nods, understanding the situation. I see. It's not easy to speak out against a friend of Megatron's, especially if he's been his medic for so long. But you should still be cautious around him. If your instincts are telling you something is off, it's best to trust them.

Yes. Starscream stops and looks at him. Can you start coming with me on checkups?

Soundwave smiled under his mask. Of course, I'll accompany you to your checkups from now on. I'll make sure that Corpsmen doesn't do anything... suspicious.

He always spends too much time on my wings. Starscream hissed as he starts walking again.

Soundwave's visor flashed with concern. Your wings? That's a sensitive area. It's important to make sure they're functioning properly, but spending too much time on them could be a sign of something more sinister. I'll definitely be keeping an optic on that during your checkups.

Starscream nodded. Thank you.

Soundwave nodded back, placing a reassuring hand on Starscream's shoulder. You're welcome. I'll do whatever it takes to make sure you're safe. And if anything happens during those checkups, I'll be there to back you up.

Starscream smirks. Thanks, Soundy.

Soundwave chuckled at the nickname. You're welcome, Star. But please don't call me that in front of Megatron.

Starscream's tone becomes playful. Why not? Don't want your reputation as a "emotionless" warrior ruined?

Soundwave sighed, his visor flickering with a hint of annoyance. Exactly. I have a reputation to uphold, and letting people see my softer side could compromise that. Plus, Megatron might see it as a sign of weakness.

Starscream chuckled.

Soundwave rolled his optics, though he couldn't help but crack a small smile under his mask. Laugh all you want, but you know I'm right.

Unlike you~ I don't care what bots think of me~ Starscream preened.

Soundwave raised an optical ridge. Oh really? You don't care what others think of you? That's hard to believe, considering how much you enjoy being the center of attention.

Yeah, yeah. Smartaft. Starscream said while playfully glaring at him.

Soundwave chuckled again, enjoying their banter. I'm just stating the obvious. You may act like you don't care, but deep down, I know you crave validation and recognition.

Starscream rolls his optics. Oh, btw. My little seekers want another "playdate" with your cassettebots.

Soundwave's visor flickered in surprise, but he quickly regained his composure. Oh, they do, do they? I suppose it's been a while since the last time. I'll have to ask my cassettes if they're up for it.

Starscream nodded. Nice.

Soundwave chuckled again, shaking his helm. You know, you and your seekers are quite the handful. But I suppose it keeps things interesting.

Starscream! Shockwave shouted from across the hallway.

Uh oh. Starscream hides behind Soundwave and whispers to Soundwave. Whisper, Nightflight, Storm Cloud, and Tailwind may have put glitter in Shockwave's experiments and now he's pissed...

Soundwave couldn't help but laugh at the situation. Of course they did. Those little troublemakers are always up to something. And glitter, really?

Yeah... Starscream said as his wings drooped.

Soundwave patted Starscream's shoulder reassuringly. Don't worry, I'll handle Shockwave. But you really need to keep a better optic on your seekers. They're causing more trouble than usual lately.

I was busy putting the tracker on the Autobot's ship! Starscream hissed.

Soundwave raised an optical ridge. Ah, so that's what you were doing. I see. Well, at least you're being productive, I suppose. But you really need to keep a better balance between your work and your seekers' antics.

Shockwave storms over, covered in bright pink glitter.

Soundwave struggled to hold back a laugh as Shockwave approached, his usually stoic demeanor replaced by a mixture of annoyance and glitter.

Shockwave stopped in front of Starscream and Soundwave, his optics narrowing as he surveyed the scene. Care to explain this? Shockwave said while lifting his arms to show all the glitter on him.

No idea. Starscream said innocently.

Shockwave glared at Starscream, clearly not believing him. You expect me to believe that you have no idea how this happened?

Why would I know? I've been busy doing my work. Starscream said, smiling sweetly.

Shockwave crossed his arms, his optic glinting with suspicion. I find that hard to believe. Your seekers have a habit of causing trouble, and they're usually the culprits behind these sorts of pranks. Shockwave said while trying to get the glitter off.

Starscream tried not to laugh.

Shockwave noticed Starscream's attempt to hold back a laugh and narrowed his optic even further. You're enjoying this, aren't you?

Starscream looks at Soundwave for help.

Soundwave gives Starscream a subtle nod, indicating that he'll back him up. Come on, Shockwave. It's just a bit of glitter. It'll wash off.

Shockwave huffed, clearly still irritated, but he couldn't deny that Soundwave had a point. Fine. But I expect you to keep a better optic on your seekers, Starscream. This is the third time this week they've pulled something like this.

Scout's honor. Soundwave saw Starscream crossing his fingers out of Shockwave's view.

Soundwave fought the urge to roll his optics as he watched Starscream crossing his fingers behind his back. He knew that Starscream's words were most likely empty, but he also knew that there was no point in calling him out on it.

Shockwave huffed. I'll hold you to that. And next time, I expect you to be more responsible and keep your seekers in check.

Yep! Starscream said sweetly.

Shockwave gave Starscream one last stern look before walking away, muttering something about needing to clean up the glitter.

Soundwave leaned in closer to Starscream and whispered. You're such a terrible liar.

Starscream laughed.

Soundwave chuckled along with him, shaking his helm. You're going to get yourself into trouble one of these days, you know that?

Hey! Most of the time you help Whisper, Nightflight, Storm Cloud and Tailwind with the pranks, so I don't want to hear it! Starscream said playfully.

Soundwave raised his hands in mock surrender. Hey, I can't help it if your seekers are persuasive. Besides, I'm just the supervisor. I don't do any of the actual pranking.

Starscream playfully punches him.

Soundwave feigned injury, clutching his arm dramatically. Ow! You hit me! How could you?

Starscream laughed. I think my personality is finally rubbing off on you!

Soundwave smirked, playing along. Oh no, don't say that. I can feel myself becoming more like you by the minute. It's a terrible fate!

Starscream laughed.

Soundwave chuckled along with him, enjoying their banter. He couldn't deny that he was starting to feel a bit more carefree and mischievous thanks to Starscream's influence.

You know with a bit more influence from me, you'll be a ladies man like me in no time! Starscream preened. 

Soundwave rolled his optics, amused by the idea. Oh please. I highly doubt that. I'm perfectly happy with my own company, thank you very much.

Starscream snorted. Your loss.

Soundwave chuckled again, shaking his helm. I think I'll survive without a harem of femmes, thank you. But don't let me stop you from pursuing your own romantic endeavors.

Hey, mech. I just happened to get all the ladies.... and men. Starscream smirked.

Soundwave chuckled, clearly entertained by this revelation. Ah, I see. So you're bisexual, then?

Yep. Starscream chirped. 

Soundwave nodded, respecting Starscream's openness. Well, I have to say, I'm impressed. You're quite the player, aren't you?

Yeah, I play with the small ones, and let the bigger ones play with me. Starscream smirk grew.

Soundwave couldn't help but snort at the innuendo, trying to keep a straight face. You're incorrigible, you know that?

Yep! Starscream beamed with pride.

Soundwave shook his helm, still amused. And yet, somehow, I'm still friends with you. I must be a glutton for punishment.

Starscream laughed.

Soundwave chuckled along with him, enjoying their light-hearted banter. Despite their differences, they had a strong bond of friendship and camaraderie.