Fic: Unexpected - Part Three

[aprilraven]

Title: Unexpected

Authors: aprilraven and ladydragon76

‘Verse: G1

Series: None

Rating: NC-17

Pairings: Soundwave/Optimus Prime, Starscream/Ratchet

Summary: Relationships can have the strangest beginnings, and become something completely unexpected.

Notes: We both (ladydragon76 and I) wrote responses to different kinkmeme prompts. Both of us received requests to continue in those verses. We both really wanted to write something together. So. Here’s this. We tweaked, combined, and wrote more together, tweaked, adjusted, poked, forgot about, wrote some more… LOL. It’s more about the relationships than it is any grand plotline, but we are glad to FINALLY be able to post it. We hope you enjoy!

Warnings: Rape, Violence, Character Death, BDSM (Real bdsm, not abuse disguised as bdsm), and Sticky Smut.

Crossposted on ladydragon76’s LJ over here.

Unexpected

Part Three

Starscream’s optics popped open as warm air was vented against his neck, and a large hand tightened on his waist.

The dark blue blear focused into Soundwave’s helm, and Starscream relaxed as the memories returned. It wasn’t the breath on his neck, but the larger than his wingmate’s hand on him that had startled him.

Starscream’s lips pressed into a grim line. Oh, he was nowhere near as ‘healed’ from his own abuse as he liked to pretend. His optics shuttered, and he forced away the shiver that wanted to trip down his back. Now everyone knew. Just like they knew about Soundwave.

Not all of the Decepticons were as dimwitted as Starscream liked to say they were. There was no way even the slowest processor amongst them would not figure out that Starscream’s ‘beatings’ were, more often than not, rapes as well.

Starscream shivered, unable to stop the wash of shame and fear. What would they think now? What would Thundercracker and Skywarp say? Would they ever let him touch them again? Would they obey a weakling like him?

They had been obedient yesterday, but they had been in shock still when Starscream ordered them to take Soundwave’s creations to his quarters and stay there until he came for them. Starscream focused on cycling his respirations in slow and even breaths.

Soundwave stirred, and Starscream pulled his head back, wanting to judge his reaction upon waking. Soundwave’s optics blinked and flickered, his hand tightening again on Starscream’s waist, before traveling around along his hip and side. Soundwave nuzzled against Starscream’s shoulder, a low, soft sound escaping him.

Starscream’s lips twitched in a slight smile, rolling his optics at his own ridiculous thoughts that a slowly waking Soundwave was almost… endearing. Primus, they’re right. I am insane, Starscream thought.

Soundwave’s optics suddenly brightened, his entire body stiffening against Starscream. “It was real.”

“I’m afraid so,” Starscream said, optics roaming over Soundwave’s injuries. “Your dents are much better. How do your internals feel?”

Moving his body in sections, Soundwave winced when he shifted his hips and legs. “Valve still tender.”

Starscream nodded. “That is going to take a few days to stop hurting. Longer possibly before you’ll be able to touch it without pain.” He remained still, one arm draped over Soundwave. Soundwave stared into his optics. And wasn’t that just odd? Starscream could not recall a time he had ever seen Soundwave without his mask and visor. He could easily recognize Megatron’s intentions in stripping Soundwave of those precious defenses.

And now everyone knew.

And now Starscream had to choose how to deal with that.

“Is it every time?” Soundwave asked, voice a rough whisper.

Starscream shook his head. “It depends on his mood. Where we are. Who is near. How angry he is with me, and how much he feels he needs to prove his dominance over me.”

Soundwave twitched in his arms.

“I really am going to kill him,” Starscream said, turning his thoughts to how he could really do it this time. He had always held back, fearing that the Decepticons would not support him. And the few times he really meant it, he had honestly failed. Ill luck.

“You expect my assistance.”

Starscream looked back at Soundwave. It had been a statement, not a question. Starscream laughed. “What makes you think I need your help?” And his course of action and plan on how to deal with the Decepticons was set in a flash of images. “No, Soundwave. I expect nothing of the sort from you. I don’t need your help. You didn’t see their faces,” Starscream said. “You didn’t see how Hook stared at me, realization in every line of his frame. You didn’t see how Skywarp looked ready to purge a tank, or feel how Thundercracker clutched my arm. You didn’t see the way crazy, insane little Wildrider buried his face in Motormaster’s chest, or how Motormaster let him while glaring at Megatron in disgust!”

Starscream barked a sharp, bitter laugh. “No, Soundwave. I won’t need your help this time.”

"Megatron is still stronger."

“You are his loyal servant. Don’t even try to convince me you haven’t willingly done exactly what happened yesterday.”

Soundwave blinked, but energon glowed a brighter shade as his pale face heated in embarrassment. Or shame. Starscream wasn’t sure which. He snorted in disgust, and shifted so he could get off the berth. Soundwave’s grip stilled him.

"Negative." Soundwave paused, optics flickering slightly as he fought to hold Starscream’s sneering gaze. "Once, a liaison was desired. Now, it would be intolerable."

“Is that so?”

Soundwave said nothing, and Starscream clambered off the berth, angry, bitter, aching. His own painful memories assaulting him. He paced his quarters, clutching his head and fighting to rein in his emotions. Soundwave had been brutally raped, Starscream needed to control himself better. If there was one thing he would never condone, the line he would never cross, it was rape. And he knew that most of the Decepticons, even the more violent amongst them, would agree. No, not all. Some had watched, glee barely hidden, as Soundwave got what they thought he deserved, yet feared receiving themselves.

Starscream dropped his hands and walked back to perch on the side of the berth. Soundwave had sat up and was watching him with wary optics. “My apologies,” Starscream murmured. “I know it’s no excuse, but my own memories are often just beneath the surface, and seeing him hurt you brought them all back up. I’ve grown… accustomed, I suppose, but it’s never pleasant.”

“I will assist. However, further planning and allies are required."

“I think a number of Decepticons will help us now. Your creations and my trinemates, at the very least,” Starscream said, mind skipping over possibilities already.

“And after?” Soundwave asked. "What is the ultimate goal?"

“I take command of the Decepticons, we annihilate the Autobots, and return to Cybertron to rebuild our home.” Soundwave’s right optic ridge rose in doubt, and seeing it was far more irritating than just wondering if he was ever making faces under those masks. Starscream sneered. “You have a better idea? Perhaps taking command for yourself?”

“Reasons for your loyalty to the Decepticon Cause?” Soundwave asked.

Frowning at the odd question, Starscream answered honestly, curious where Soundwave was going with this. “Because the Autobots charged me with murder when I returned without Skyfire. Because they razed Vos to try and force seekers and other flying warrior models off Cybertron. Because Megatron spun a pretty lie about equality and freedom.”

Soundwave nodded. “The Council and Sentinel Prime were corrupt."

“They deserved their fates.”

“Optimus Prime is different.”

Starscream reset his audials. “What?”

“Optimus Prime is different. Negotiating a treaty is preferable to annihilation."

Starscream stared for a moment, then burst into laughter. He didn’t miss the annoyed expression on Soundwave’s face. Starscream snickered, and flicked his hand in an airy motion. “And I suppose you have a plan for getting Optimus Prime to sit still and listen to us as we explain just why we, and many other Decepticons, are suddenly willing to slag Megatron, and live in peace with the Autobots?” He laughed again. “Next you’ll tell me you’ve been meeting with him secretly.” Starscream giggled, unable to help himself. “Is that it, Soundwave? Are you an Autobot spy?” Primus, what a ridiculous thought!

“Negative, I am not a spy. However...” Soundwave paused, his expression nervous enough to stop Starscream’s laughter. “I am expected to meet with Prime today.”

“Expected?”

Soundwave nodded, not elaborating. Starscream stared at him hard. “Why the slag would Optimus-farking-Prime be expecting you to meet with him?”

“I was wounded during battle. He repaired me. We meet now."

Starscream stared, incredulous. “I would never have believed you would betray the Cause.”

Soundwave's optics flashed in anger. “I have not.”

“Fine.” Starscream stood and moved to a storage cabinet. He returned with two cubes of energon and handed one to Soundwave. “Here. Refuel, then we’ll go see your creations. Will Prime speak with me if you assure him I only wish to talk?”

"Talk, nothing more?" Soundwave responded, a surprisingly suspicious look on his face.

Starscream nodded, sipping his energon to cover his own face. He knew he was too expressive, and right now he was burning to know just how Prime had managed to gain Soundwave’s protectiveness. He did have larger things at hand, however. The shock was going to wear off soon, and Starscream could remember his first experience all too well. The shame, the humiliation, the depression, the lack of will to even take care of himself.

"I go to Thundercracker and Skywarp for comfort once I’m healed enough to handle interfacing.” The words were out before Starscream meant to say them. Soundwave flinched, but it was too late. Starscream shrugged, and tossed back the last of his energon before dispersing the cube’s field. “They didn’t know. They just learned to expect me within a week or so after one of Megatron’s beatings.” He shrugged again. “I went to them in desperation the first time. I couldn’t recharge. I couldn’t stop shaking. I couldn’t tell them. I couldn’t tell anyone.”

Starscream paced a bit, wondering why in the Pits he was telling Soundwave this. “Skywarp touched me, teasing, thinking I’d crawled into their berth for that reason alone. I hadn’t, but once he touched me, I decided to go with it. I wanted to feel desirable instead of filthy.” Starscream shrugged yet again, annoyed with himself at how insecure and unsure the gesture made him look. “I go now because it’s become how I heal. I go to my trine to reclaim myself. He can hurt me, but I refuse to let him take away my ability to find pleasure with other lovers.”

Was Starscream actually offering- "Negative." Soundwave's refusal was firm. "I do not desire your Trine."

Starscream waved Soundwave’s words away. “I’m not offering my wingmates to you. I’m not offering myself. Not right now. I… Slaggit, I don’t know what I’m saying! Are you ready to go?”

Soundwave stood, and they left. The halls were quiet, vacant, and Starscream took the opportunity to watch Soundwave’s walk. He hid his limp well. They arrived at Soundwave’s quarters and entered. The door was barely halfway open when Soundwave’s creations were dragging him inside, all talking at once. Starscream got hauled in by a shoulder vent, and crushed into a hard embrace. Behind him, Starscream heard the door shut, and the unmistakable beeps of the locks being engaged.

The sound of a sob next to his audial had Starscream trying to extricate himself. “Holy fragging scrap!” Ah. Skywarp. Of course it was Skywarp. Starscream gave up trying to get out of the tight hug. “Why didn’t you tell us? Oh, Pits! We… we…” Skywarp burst into noisy, messy sobs. “How could you even stand us touching you?! Why didn’t you stop me?!”

Thundercracker came into view, he shook his head, but he wore a concerned look. Starscream glanced at Soundwave. He had curled up on his own berth, his creations snuggled tight against him. Rumble was weeping as ridiculously as Skywarp.

“Why didn’t you tell us, Star?” Thundercracker asked, one hand reaching out to caress Starscream’s helm. “We’re your trine.”

Shamed and embarrassed, Starscream tucked his face into Skywarp’s neck. “I couldn’t,” he whispered. “I just couldn’t. I never wanted anyone to know.”

Starscream clung to Skywarp for a few minutes, mourning his own weaknesses while still trying to draw strength from his trine mates. He pulled back, gently tugging Skywarp’s arms from around his waist. “Enough. It’s in the past, and we have a plan.” Starscream looked at Soundwave, who nodded. “Soundwave is certain he can get me a meeting with Prime.”

“We’re going to defect?” Thundercracker asked.

“Negative. Autobot assistance required to overthrow Megatron.”

“Ya can’t!” Rumble protested. “Yer hurt! Ya can’t risk the Prime fritzin’ and doin’ what Megatron did ta ya!”

Soundwave shuddered, but stood, carefully, moving his creations aside. “Prime will not.” They all continued to protest, voices loud. Soundwave’s optics flashed; the five Cassetticons flinched. The arguments stopped in the very same instant, and Soundwave moved to a door. “Mask and visor required first. Then we will depart.”

“We’re coming with you,” Skywarp said.

“No you aren’t,” Starscream told him. “The seven of you are going to stay right here and well away from Megatron’s attention.”

“He’s hurtin’ though!” Rumble shouted.

“Now is the best time!” Starscream snapped right back. “Everyone is cowering in their quarters. Megatron will be ensconced within his, probably drunk on high grade and congratulating himself if he follows the same pattern he uses on me. We need to leave now, while no one is paying attention.”

Not to mention, it would do both Starscream and Soundwave some good to distract themselves from the events that led to this joint venture. Starscream knew he was going to have to tell Prime why. He was going to have to come clean about his dirty little secret.

Primus, but it grated his circuits to think of asking Prime for assistance.

No, Starscream shook his head. It was a potential treaty with an ally.

Starscream focused on what he would demand, what he was willing to give in return, as he led Soundwave out. They flew in mech form, Starscream willing to go slow so he could really think things out. Soundwave was silent beside him, and Starscream spared a portion of his processors to watch for warning signs of depression, betrayal, anything.

They landed in a mountainous area. The trees were large, and rocky outcroppings hung over their heads.

“Remain here,” Soundwave said, and left.

Starscream watched him go, optic ridge raised. He would give him a few breems, then he was following.

~ | ~

Prime had arrived before him, and that was a first. Usually Soundwave had four breems or more to himself, with Prime not always able to get away precisely when he wanted. He wondered how the Autobot leader managed at all. Megatron’s movements were always carefully monitored by those around him.

Soundwave watched the larger mech, a little unnerved at not having his usual time and space to collect himself. Prime’s movements were slow as he approached from the back of the cave.

“You’re well? No injuries?” Prime asked. He unsubspaced two cubes and handed one to Soundwave. Soundwave accepted with a grateful nod. His damaged systems would require twice the usual fuel consumption to heal quickly, and rationing was strictly enforced on the Nemesis.

“Status - “ and here Soundwave paused, his mind suddenly racing. Damaged, used, broken, he wanted to scream, “- functional,” he said instead, because he couldn’t force ‘undamaged’ past his vocalizer.

If Prime noticed the hesitation, he gave no sign, and now Soundwave noted the tiredness, the dim glow to the optics. Never mind resting or that he had officers to handle things for him, after a battle Prime always insisted on checking up after everyone himself. The greatest and perhaps most important difference between him and Megatron. His mechs weren’t cannon fodder, and no one was considered expendable. Prime cared for his troops.

He cares for me, too. The thought startled Soundwave. Neither had ever voiced what their encounters meant, what they were to each other. That the Prime desired him, he knew. But what else it could mean-

“Give me a few kliks, then we can start.”

Prime finished his energon and sat down, leaning back against the cave wall. He dimmed his optics wearily. Soundwave watched him. The sight of the Prime, as always, sent a warm wash of heat flushing through his systems. A powerful realization swept in its wake.

Prime was safe.

Prime was always mindful of his size, his weight, and careful not to crush him. He used his greater size and strength to control and contain, not to punish. Those large hands had never brought him pain, only pleasure.

If he takes you, damaged like this, he’ll know.

Soundwave shuddered.

Used, damaged, Prime won’t want you anymore.

Soundwave’s processors faltered in panic. The one good thing to come out of this Primus-forsaken war... Prime couldn’t go. Prime was his.

He is the Prime. When he finds out what Megatron did, how you were punished, raped and shamed in front of the Decepticon army, he won’t want you..

Soundwave bowed his head, defeated by his own logic. Prime would leave and never come back. This would be their last time.

Soundwave’s optics roamed hungrily, longingly, over Prime again. He was too damaged for anything else, but he could make this last time memorable for Prime, pleasurable.

Soundwave moved closer to Prime, brought his hand up to trace the lines and contours of the powerful torso. Prime cracked one optic open to look at him, then shut it again.

Soundwave’s hand trailed lower, then he shifted position, moving to stretch out between Prime’s legs. He retracted his facemask and placed a kiss on one large thigh.

This time, both optics opened. Prime looked down. “This is different,” he rumbled softly.

Soundwave looked up, hesitant, uncertain. “Attentions unwelcome?”

“Not at all. Please continue.”

A small hum broke free at this sign of Prime’s approval, and Soundwave continued, kissing his way slowly up each large thigh. Prime’s optics were dim, but remained open and watching.

Little surges of excitement were flashing through Soundwave’s circuits. He had never had the opportunity before, to know Prime like this, to explore him so intimately. Prime had dominated and taken, and Soundwave had submitted and surrendered, and it was a mutually satisfying experience for them both.

But now, Soundwave was taking control and Prime allowed it. Soundwave hummed again, pressing his lips to Prime’s interface plate. Another soft rumble from Prime, and Soundwave looked up to see Prime’s mask retracting.

Soundwave responded by retracting his visor, and was rewarded with Prime’s smile. He returned his attention to the large plate before him, pressing small, fervent kisses along each seam.

He paused and looked up. Prime raised a brow ridge. “Very different,” Prime said. “I wonder what brought this on,” and the deepening tone of Prime’s voice sent a shiver through him.

Soundwave held his gaze, and flicked his tongue out, sweeping a slow stroke across the top seam of Prime’s interface plate, asking for entrance.

Prime bent one leg, allowing Soundwave better access, and retracted the plating. Prime’s spike extended readily, already stiff, drops of transfluid glistening at the tip.

More heat fluttered through Soundwave’s circuits, and impossibly, incredibly, he felt lubricant begin to flow into his damaged valve. Prime was watching him now with optics wide open and brightly lit. Soundwave licked the silver drops from Prime’s spike with slow, smooth strokes of his tongue, probing delicately into the tip to gather more. He heard Prime groan softly. Prime’s legs spread wider. His hips gave the barest thrust up towards Soundwave’s mouth.

Panic flared, and Soundwave drew back a little, wondering if Prime might force him, or hurt him. Not Megatron, he’s not-

“You don’t have to do this, you know,” and he looked up to see Prime looking down, his gaze heated yet thoughtful, and Soundwave relaxed, for Prime was reading him perfectly, as he always did.

No, Prime was not Megatron. Prime was safe, and Soundwave bent his head once again, nuzzling along the length of the large spike. Lower still, until his mouth was pressed to Prime’s valve, his tongue slipping in to taste the lubricant there. Prime murmured, but never moved, so Soundwave returned his attention to the large spike, kissing and nipping softly along the base. Soundwave nuzzled Prime’s spike again, and Prime’s finger caressed his cheek.

Prime’s spike was dripping steadily now. Soundwave licked the tip clean once again, and once again, Prime’s hips thrust up. He was ready this time, and Prime sighed when Soundwave’s mouth closed over him. Soundwave sucked and stroked, playing his tongue along the heavy under ridges of the spike. Prime groaned softly; his hand came to rest on Soundwave’s helm.

“Primus, Soundwave,” Prime whispered.

Excitement arced across his systems. Soundwave moaned around the spike in his mouth and took more of it in, working his way down. A sudden wash of transfluid warned him Prime was close. Prime’s hips began moving in short, steady thrusts. A tremor shook the large frame; the hand on his helm tightened.

Soundwave worked his tongue over the thick ridges and tiny sensor nodes, sucking hard in time with each stroke. Another flex of Prime’s hips, and Prime’s vent fans roared to life. Still those short controlled thrusts, then suddenly Prime was arching away from the wall with a deep cry. Hot transfluid burst into Soundwave’s mouth. Soundwave moaned again, feeling his valve spasming in response. Lubricant seeped once more.

Prime’s spike withdrew. Soundwave followed, kissing the spike housing, lapping up the last beads of transfluid from the softening spike. Still excited, wanting more, he began tracing his tongue around the edge of Prime’s valve, knowing it would be many times more sensitive after overloading.

Prime’s hand caressed gently over Soundwave’s helm as Soundwave nuzzled and licked and kissed. When he drew a soft groan from Prime, and Prime’s legs spread wider for him, Soundwave’s valve spasmed again. He felt his own lubricant trickling out.

Soundwave buried his face between Prime’s legs, thrusting his tongue eagerly into Prime’s valve. Prime gasped, his hips jerked, and Soundwave thrust his tongue deeper. Prime moaned. His fingers dug furrows into the cave floor.

Tension thrummed through the Prime’s frame. Heat rolled off him in waves. His vents blasted hot air. Soundwave hummed, vibrating the valve. Prime moaned once more, then growled. His hands gripped Soundwave’s helm, Soundwave’s mouth was pressed tight to his valve, and Prime shuddered and overloaded again.

Prime’s hand released his helm. Soundwave kissed his valve softly and started to move back, but then Prime cupped his face and tilted his head up. Soundwave stared up at Prime, suddenly conscious of Prime’s lubricant on his tongue, his lips, his chin. Prime gazed down at him, and something in those optics made Soundwave start to tremble.

One of Prime’s fingers traced his mouth. “Soundwave,” Prime began.

~ | ~

Starscream felt his jaw drop as he ducked into the cavern.

Soundwave lay on his front between Prime's sprawled legs, masks gone, lubricant and transfluid smeared around his mouth, a thin silvery streak across one cheek.

Oh, there was no mistaking what had just happened here.

Starscream watched as Prime's hand caressed Soundwave's head. Saw how their optics met, the soft light in them. Heard the gentle murmur of Prime saying Soundwave's name.

The hot rush of jealousy staggered Starscream, his voice snide and sharp as he said, "I hope you aren’t expecting me to service you in a similar fashion?” Starscream smiled a tight, malicious smile as they jumped in surprise.

Prime was on his feet in an instant, blaster in hand, charged and aimed at Starscream. Starscream had his nullrays charged to the highest setting and pointing at both of them. That was far too intimate a scene for him to simply trust Soundwave had not betrayed him in bringing him here.

“What is the meaning of this?” Prime growled, optics switching between Starscream and Soundwave.

Soundwave scrambled to his feet, and stepped between Prime and Starscream, blocking them both from having a clear shot. Starscream’s optics narrowed as he took in Soundwave’s position, his back to Prime, face glowing with humiliation, expression almost panicked.

"You bring me here with a promise of an ally, and now I find you whoring yourself to the Prime?” Starscream watched them both carefully for their reactions. Soundwave’s mouth dropped open in hurt and shock. A low growl came from Prime, but Starscream wasn’t finished. He wanted to see how much he could push them into giving away. Starscream motioned to Soundwave’s face. “You have something there,” he smirked.

“You are wrong,” Prime said. “Lover, yes. Partner, yes. Never a whore.” Prime stepped forward and wiped the transfluid off with his thumb, tapping Soundwave’s cheek gently. Soundwave’s mask and visor slid into place with a quiet snick, hiding his face. Prime’s battle mask slid into place as well.

Starscream watched the entire exchange, letting his own guns begin to cycle down as Prime’s did. The surprise had worn off, the envy of having a caring lover had ebbed, but now he needed to push. Just how much could he, Starscream, trust Optimus Prime? Soundwave did. Baring his face, closing the masks again on Prime’s silent order.

“Did he tell you?” Starscream asked Prime. “Did he tell you he spent last night in my berth? Did he tell you he was on his knees just after the battle, taking Megatron’s spike?”

Prime stiffened minutely, but his voice was smooth, controlled. “I value what time Soundwave and I have together, but I do not own him.”

Starscream nodded slightly. Megatron would have hit one of them. Starscream for making the accusation, or Soundwave for having done so. Regardless of the circumstances. But he wasn’t satisfied yet. “Don’t you want to know why?”

Soundwave flinched, a soft, “No,” whispered into the tense atmosphere.

Prime’s optics flickered toward Soundwave, and back immediately to Starscream. Prime’s optics narrowed for a moment, and Starscream knew the reaction had been read all too well. Prime shook his head. “If Soundwave wishes to tell me, he may. It is his choice.”

Starscream let his smirk relax into something closer to a real smile, and shut down his guns completely. He settled his hands on his hips, and tipped his head to the side just a bit. “We were raped,” he announced without preamble.

He watched as Prime’s frame stiffened, optics widening.

“I want Megatron’s spark extinguished,” Starscream continued, voice far more raw than he had expected or wanted it to be. When Prime just stared, Starscream sighed in irritation. “Come now, Prime. Think. Do you believe I’d just keep trying to kill him myself for no better reason than wanting his throne?”

“But you do want leadership over the Decepticons. Why would I wish to help you attain that?”

“Because I don’t go around beating my subordinates and raping them in public displays as punishment,” Starscream snapped. “Because I want to go home, and save our planet! Because I couldn’t give a frag about this planet or its inhabitants. You want them left alive. Fine. They live, we don’t attack them anymore. Not ever. But I lead the Decepticons, and you and I are joint leaders of Cybertron. I will not lead my people back to the near slavery we enjoyed before Megatron started his little revolution!”

Prime waited until Starscream paused, then asked, “Megatron raped you both publicly as a punishment for the battle being lost yesterday?”

“No,” Starscream said. “No, only Soundwave yesterday.” He did not miss the way Soundwave’s fists clenched, his chin dropping a notch. Prime’s optics flickered toward Soundwave quickly, then back to Starscream, the only sign that he had noticed. But it was enough for Starscream. These two had something going that was a bit deeper than just the thrill of a cross-faction fling. “My first rape was after Megatron realized you still lived, and he always kept it hidden.”

“You did not report it?”

Starscream snorted and rolled his optics. “I’m Second in Command, and it was my Commander abusing me. Who would I tell?” He huffed, trying to cover the rising swell of humiliation, weakness, shame. “Who would have believed me?”

Prime glanced to the side, to Soundwave, and when he spoke his voice was softer. Gentle. “Then yesterday-“

“Yesterday Megatron decided that Soundwave would serve as a good example. He was beaten and raped in front of the entire Decepticon army, his creations included.”

“Younglings!” Prime gasped.

Soundwave seemed to cringe in on himself, and Starscream bit at his lip, genuine remorse filling him that either of them had to speak of this, but especially Soundwave. Starscream had at least grown accustomed to the abuse, learned how to shield himself somewhat from it. Soundwave was still reeling in shock and pain, his body still showing the battering he’d endured.

“Yes. So we want your help in taking him out. Once and for all. In trade, the Decepticons will agree to peace with the Autobots. I will lead, Soundwave my Second in Command. You and I, Prime, will take our people home and save our world.”

Blue optics narrowed. “I am not interested in glory, or fame. Nor do I believe that all the Decepticons will side with you, or you would not be here. There is also the issue of trust. You are a known traitor, Starscream. Even before landing here on Earth, you were well known for arguing with Megatron.”

“Arguing. Debating. Does your Second not point out flaws in your plans? Suggest alternatives he thinks may work better?” Starscream gave a short bitter laugh. “I’ve never heard a rumor, or seen video of you backhanding Wheeljack or Perceptor for suggesting they may just know better than you what scientific inventions may explode suddenly.”

Prime dipped his chin in a slow nod. “And what of the Decepticons that will not join you?”

“Abide by the treaty or land in spark prison,” Starscream shrugged, trying to affect an air of nonchalance. “It’s Megatron that must be dealt with first. Nearly everyone left will fall in line after he is deactivated.”

“I do not condone death.”

Starscream sneered. “Of course you don’t, but tell me what you think would happen if you merely imprisoned Megatron. There are those that are disgustingly loyal. Shockwave, for instance, will probably think Soundwave and I should be honored Megatron allowed us to pleasure his spike in any form! Do you think he would not do all he could to free Megatron from any prison he is placed in? Don’t be a fool, Prime! This war will not end until Megatron is dead.” Starscream paused. “Or you. Personally, I’d rather it be Megatron.” Then he snickered. “I can’t believe I said that, and meant it.” He turned and paced a little. “Primus, I’m really doing this,” Starscream muttered.

“This cannot be decided in a day,” Prime said. His hand came up, and he pinched the bridge of his nose. “At the very least, I will need to tell my officers all of this.”

Starscream snickered again, looking at Soundwave for a moment before grinning at Prime. “All of it?”

“I am going to need to explain how I found myself alone and in the company of the Decepticons’ top two lieutenants.”

Starscream turned his grin back to Soundwave. “Send Laserbeak to record that meeting. I want to watch the Autobots’ reaction when they learn their precious Prime got his spike serviced by-“

“Starscream!” Prime said, voice raising only slightly, but the warning was clear in his tone. Starscream was only mildly comforted to see Soundwave flinch too. Prime saw as well, and his optics shut for a moment. “I apologize, but I will not hear such talk from anyone. Not even you.”

“Not even me? As in, not even the Cybertronian Co-leader?”

Prime shook his head. “From no one. Not you, not my Autobots. No one.” He sighed, and looked at Soundwave for a moment before turning back to Starscream. “Will you be safe returning to your base alone?”

Starscream’s optic ridge rose, but nodded. “I’ll be fine. I am, however hesitant to do so.”

“Go,” Soundwave said. Starscream sent a quick code, his trine channel, long-range and one he always listened to. Soundwave’s visor brightened as he realized what it was.

“Contact me before you are within scanner range,” Starscream said, waiting for Soundwave to nod, before he gave Prime a slight, respectful bow, then left. Nothing was decided, but that had gone better than it might have, and Soundwave was staying behind. Perhaps he could smooth any doubts Prime had.

Thundercracker and Skywarp had not contacted Starscream, so he knew that the base was still quiet.

He hurried to take off, transforming midair and engaging his thrusters. A good fast flight would clear his processors, and then he could focus on the next step.

~ | ~

Alone again, with the Prime regarding him, and Soundwave was completely unnerved by the silence.

“So that’s what was different,” Prime finally said, and a hot flush of shame and humiliation ripped through Soundwave.

Prime paced closer, and Soundwave looked down, unable to meet his optics, terrified now that the moment had come and Prime would reject him and leave.

Soundwave’s chin was taken in a firm grip, his head lifted up. “Remove your masks,” Prime ordered, “all of them.”

Soundwave wanted to scream, to run and hide, but he obeyed. Prime wasn’t Megatron. Prime would never hurt him. Prime was safe. Soundwave retracted his visor and battlemask, and deactivated the mask on his vocalizer.

“How badly damaged are you?”

Soundwave flinched. His vocalizer shrilled with static before he managed to answer, “Damage is severe.”

“Time for repair?”

Soundwave flinched again. “Estimate, at least one decacycle.”

“And you didn’t think I would notice? Or was it your intention to continue distracting me from your injuries, as you did earlier?”

Soundwave faltered, his intakes labored to drag in air that was too thick to breathe, threatened to choke him, cut off his air. He was being thrown to the floor, a large hand closed around his throat and squeezed, another ripped off his interface plate and then Megatron-

“Soundwave.” Prime’s voice drew him back from that seething Pit of pain and betrayal. Blue optics narrowed. “Explain.”

Soundwave writhed mentally under the demand, but complied. “Logical assumption was, you would not want me, after -”

“So you thought this would be our last meeting,” Prime finished for him.

And hearing Prime voice it, having him say those words, broke Soundwave completely.

He looked up at Prime, agony and torment laid bare in his optics.

Prime looked back, his optics reflecting Soundwave’s pain. “I would have come for you, I would have prevented this if I knew.“

Soundwave keened his anguish, the layered harmonics of his vocals making even that harsh sound into a thing of beauty.

"Megatron took everything from me, everything!"

Prime released his chin and drew him into his arms. Soundwave pressed his face into Prime’s shoulder, shaking. Warm lips brushed his helm.

“The one thing Megatron can never take from you, is me.”

Soundwave clung to Prime and Prime rocked him, his deep, rumbling purr vibrating into Soundwave’s core, gentling his trembling frame.

I go to my trine to reclaim myself.

Starscream’s words echoed through his processors, and Soundwave sighed and pressed closer to Prime. He would do the same. He would come to Prime. Soundwave could never forget, but Prime would help him reclaim himself.

A finger tipped his chin up, and then Prime was kissing him, not the hard, devouring kisses during the heat of interfacing, when Soundwave’s mask finally fell and Prime claimed him. Prime’s kiss was slow and deep and thorough, and set Soundwave’s processors swirling with heat and lust. Prime’s hands gripped and pulled him tight to the large frame. Soundwave whimpered with want. He opened a link, mind to mind, and let Prime feel everything, his desire, his ecstasy when Prime took him, his passion for Prime, the excitement and craving he felt when he took Prime’s spike in his mouth for the first time. He gave Prime all of it.

A wave of tenderness and warmth, and sheer pleasure answered him. Prime cherished him, treasured him like a rare gift. Soundwave’s acceptance of Prime as his lover, his erotic surrender to him, never failed to fill him with a sense of awe. Prime’s towering lust for him spilled into his mind, along with Prime’s deep growl, sweeping away every last one of Soundwave’s doubts. Prime wanted him. Prime would always want him. I have never had a more passionate and exciting lover.

Prime ended the kiss, and looked down at Soundwave.

“When you’re fully recovered, and ready for me again, I’ll take you. It will be slow, Soundwave. I’ll draw it out and make you beg. You’ll scream my name before I give you release.”

Soundwave trembled violently at the fierce look in Prime’s optics. He moaned when Prime’s finger traced the telltale droplets of lubricant leaking from the seam of his interface plating.

Prime leaned close. His lips brushed Soundwave’s audial. “But remember, I will never take more than you are willing to give me,” Prime whispered.

~ | ~

The fear rose higher, anticipation of heavy fists, his body taking even heavier damage, weighed Starscream down as he drew ever nearer the base.

He was caught between envy and fear and self-loathing. He shouldn't wish Soundwave was next to him, but he couldn't help it. He finally wasn't alone in his torment. If he landed and Megatron was waiting, if Soundwave were with him, there was a chance Megatron would choose to punish Soundwave, not Starscream.

And how wrong was that thought?

Starscream snarled to himself, and dove into his final approach, transforming and landing in the docking tower. Even were Soundwave with him, Starscream would not be able to just let Megatron hurt him. Soundwave's body was still severely damaged. He wouldn't likely survive another attack so soon.

Starscream froze as the ready light indicated he could enter the base, hand hovering just over the controls, mind attacked by thoughts.

I shouldn't have left him in enemy hands.

What if Megatron's on the other side of this door?

What will Prime do to him?

I should just run. Fly away and never come back.

The last thought brought a hot flush of shame to Starscream. Who then would protect his trine? Or Soundwave? Or the younglings? And yes, suddenly now Starscream did feel like they were his to protect. He would not abandon them or his trine.

He cycled his respiration once slowly, straightened his frame into his most haughty pose, and opened the door.

The hall beyond was completely empty.

Starscream almost sagged in relief. Had Megatron been waiting for him, he might have run. The memories of Soundwave's rape, the shadowy pain-laced ghosts of his own abuse crowded in, making him tremble despite his best efforts to conceal his feelings and thoughts.

I go to my trine to reclaim myself. Starscream's own words echoed in his mind.

But why would they still want him? His spark contracted in loss. Jealousy clutched at him again as he remembered the shared look between Soundwave and Prime. Prime wouldn't abandon Soundwave over this. Starscream knew that. Sensed it. Felt it.

But he didn't have that. He’d never had that.

Thundercracker and Skywarp tolerated him in their berth because he was their trine leader. Because it was common for trine mates to be lovers whether one had a more serious relationship with someone else or not.

It didn't matter that they were the only mechs Starscream could trust with his body. They didn't know, because he never told them how grateful he was. How much he needed them. How much they helped him stay sane.

A quick ping over the trine channel, and Starscream was surprised to learn they were in his quarters. He hurried there, wondering what would have driven them to his rooms instead of their own.

The door cycled open to show Thundercracker seated at Starscream's computer console. Skywarp stopped pacing, and stared as the door cycled shut behind Starscream. No one moved for a long moment. Then Skywarp was there in a purple flash, his arms tight around Starscream's waist, face buried in his neck. Starscream returned the embrace despite being startled.

Only Skywarp would teleport a couple mechanometers across an empty floor, but forget he could teleport in the heat of battle and get shot.

Thundercracker rose and wrapped his arms around both Starscream and Skywarp, pulling them in against him sideways. Skywarp was shaking, intakes hitching.

"How'd it go?" Thundercracker asked, his hands stroking in soothing caresses over Starscream and Skywarp's wings.

"Well enough," Starscream answered. "I think Prime will help. We need to decide who we can trust here. Who will be willing to fight Megatron openly."

"We're in," Skywarp whispered. "I can't believe... I mean... I just..."

Starscream kissed Skywarp's helm, hushing him. "I didn't tell anyone, Sky. How could I? Chances are still low that any of the other Decepticons will join us. And why should they? If I can't even stop Megatron from raping me, what kind of leader will I be? Too weak. Too pathetic." The words tasted as bitter as they sounded. Starscream clung to Skywarp, trying to brace himself for the moment they realized the truth and pulled away.

"How could you bear our touch after what he did?" Skywarp whispered. "Why didn't you stop me when I touched you?"

Starscream shivered, and their arms held him tighter. "Needed you," he whispered back.

"Woulda helped somehow," Skywarp said, vocalizer crackling static. "Woulda protected you. Trine. We shoulda protected you. Shouldn'a even let him hit you." Skywarp was sobbing into Starscream's neck now. "I'm so sorry, Star!"

Starscream couldn't speak. He sank into their shared embrace and stayed there, trying to ignore the swirling thoughts, the pain, the need. The utter weakness within him that allowed all this.

He rallied. No, this wasn’t his fault. No one deserved rape. Not even him. Pits, he wouldn’t even turn this around on Megatron!

Starscream found himself staring at Thundercracker.

Thundercracker's hand settled on the back of Starscream's helm, gentle pressure, his face moving slowly toward Starscream's. He could escape any time he wanted, but he didn't budge. White lips settled against his own, and Starscream's breath shuddered out.

::You know I’m in love with Sky,:: Thundercracker said over their trine channel. ::Him with me. But we’ll always be here for you. No more disloyalty. We were so wrong.:: Thundercracker pulled back and rested his forehead against Starscream’s. ::Will you forgive us?::

::Trine:: Starscream said simply, and Thundercracker nodded. Starscream was just as guilty of disloyalty to his trine as they were. He tipped his face up again, kissing Thundercracker with more passion this time.

::Star?:: Skywarp burrowed against his throat, lips barely grazing in a kiss of his own.

"Yes," Starscream said against Thundercracker's mouth, fingers teasing the thick cables of Skywarp's neck. "Need you." He sighed as Thundercracker's lips traced across his jaw line, and decided in that instant to open himself completely. "You're safe. My trine. Mine. You'll never hurt me."

"Never," Thundercracker swore.

"Need to know," Skywarp whispered into Starscream's audial, a hand drifting lower. "Need to hear the words this time."

"I want you," Starscream moaned, hips tilting into Skywarp's touch. "If I ever don't, I will say so. You must too."

Thundercracker purred, nipped Starscream's wing. "Always welcome in our berth."

Our, Starscream heard, and nodded in acknowledgement. Of course he would only go to them both. They were exclusive to one another. He would not separate them. Would not come between them. They shared him when the three of them came together. Starscream had never been with just one or the other, and he wouldn't start that now.

Hands and lips traced over him, and Starscream moaned again. They still wanted him. He could hear it in the way Skywarp's respiration kicked up. Feel it in the way Thundercracker's firm touch did not hesitate or falter.

Starscream pushed against Skywarp gently, maneuvering them all toward the berth. They moved slowly, and everything took on a soft hazy glow, the world narrowing to just this room. This berth. The sweet arousing touches of his trine mates.

Starscream sat on the berth, Thundercracker knelt before him, tongue tracing the seams of his interface panel. Starscream leaned back into Skywarp, whimpering as he nibbled out along the top edge of Starscream's wing. Thundercracker purred, the soft, deep tone rolling through Starscream. His panel retracted involuntarily, spike extending as soon as it was able.

"Primus," Starscream breathed as Thundercracker's mouth closed over him. Skywarp whimpered, hands moving greedily over Starscream's wings to the same rhythm Thundercracker moved over his spike.

Starscream basked in the wash of pleasure for a few minutes before leaning forward, gently pushing Thundercracker away. Hands to either side of Thundercracker’s face, Starscream kissed him. Slow and passionate and pouring all of his affection into each nip, each stroke of his tongue. Starscream let one hand wander lower as Thundercracker crawled onto the berth. He smoothed his thumb over Thundercracker’s interface panel, and waited for it to retract before circling the spike housing, dipping lower and stroking the edges of his valve.

Thundercracker moaned, his spike extending into Starscream’s waiting hand. Starscream smiled as Skywarp whimpered again, whispering lustful wanton words against Starscream’s neck.

Starscream tipped his head back, and brushed a kiss over Skywarp’s cheek. “On your back.”

Skywarp was panting already as he complied, he lay back on the berth, legs spread, interface array exposed. He arched as Starscream's finger teased his valve. Thundercracker leaned over, and muffled his and Skywarp's moans with a deep kiss.

Starscream grasped Skywarp’s thighs and pulled until his aft rested right at the edge of the berth. With a slight gesture he directed Thundercracker to straddle Skywarp’s waist. Neither needed any further encouragement. Thundercracker impaled himself on Skywarp’s spike, and wriggled his hips. Skywarp moaned again, and Thundercracker’s breath hissed out, his wings flexing slightly with the pleasure.

Starscream rubbed his fingertips against the edges of Thundercracker’s stretched valve, his cooling vents kicking into a higher setting as his wingmate bucked and cried out. He knelt up, one arm wrapping around Thundercracker’s waist, and dipped first one finger, then another into Skywarp’s valve.

“Star!”

Starscream smirked, his arm locked around Thundercracker so he could do no more that twitch, and continued to work his fingers in slow strokes in Skywarp.

“Please!” Thundercracker gasped.

“Star!” Skywarp cried again.

Unable to hold himself back anymore either, Starscream pressed into Skywarp, pushing outward on Skywarp’s legs so he could get closer. Starscream set a slow rhythm, trying to hold back for as long as he could. He leaned forward, forcing Thundercracker down more against Skywarp, restricting how much either of them could move.

Thundercracker whimpered, grinding his hips down, begging, “Please, Star, please!” over and over again. Starscream nuzzled against Thundercracker’s neck, smiling as he rubbed a blue wing and tweaked any exposed wires that fell under his other hand.

Starscream leaned back, letting Thundercracker sit up and move freely. He looped his arm back around Thundercracker’s waist, and matched his rhythm. Skywarp keened, back bowing up off the berth. Starscream gasped, delicious friction and wet heat squeezed his spike. He buried his face between Thundercracker’s wings, and reached out to hook his fingers into Skywarp’s pectoral vent. Using his grip for added leverage, Starscream thrust harder, getting lost in the sound and feel of his wingmates.

Skywarp overloaded first, his hips bucking, valve clenching as he shouted. Thundercracker moaned, wings shivering, hot transfluid splashing across Starscream’s arm. Starscream held out for a last few glorious moments, then tumbled over the edge. Energy burst across his circuits, spark thrumming with the ecstasy, spike pulsing.

He gave a few last rocking thrusts, and collapsed against Thundercracker’s back with a sigh.

“Primus,” Skywarp whispered.

Thundercracker was the first to move. He flopped sideways, and sprawled along the berth, giving Starscream and Skywarp a dopey, sated grin. Skywarp sat up, and tugged on Starscream’s hand until they were all piled together in a tangle of limbs.

Starscream nuzzled Thundercracker, then brushed a soft kiss over his lips.

Skywarp pressed to Starscream’s back, his head resting on one red shoulder vent. He purred, a smile in his voice as he spoke. “I like you in our berth. Gives me a shot at Thunder’s valve.”

Starscream grinned, then snickered as Thundercracker’s pale cheeks tinted pink. “Oh, shut up. You like my spike.”

“Like your valve too,” Skywarp said.

Starscream licked his lips, and added, “It’s such a nice, tight, little valve.”

Thundercracker’s optics rolled, and he sighed. “So,” he said, “what’d Prime have to say?”

Starscream’s optic ridge rose at the blatant subject change, but decided he could tease his wingmate later just as easily.

“Yeah,” Skywarp added. “How are you sure we can trust him?”

Smiling, Starscream glanced back at Skywarp. “Well, Soundwave can trust him.”

“Oh, good. He looks smug,” Thundercracker muttered.

Starscream snickered. “Soundwave and Prime aren’t just meeting.” He paused for effect. “They’re lovers.” He looked back and forth between his flabbergasted wingmates and laughed.

Skywarp smacked his arm. “Liar! You almost had me going too.”

“I’m not lying.”

“Soundwave and Prime?” Thundercracker asked, voice full of doubt. “You’ve been hit in the head too many times.”

“I walked in on them. They’re lovers. And better than that, they’re serious.”

“Aww. Screamer’s got a romantic streak!” Skywarp cooed, poking his fingers into Starscream’s side.

Starscream snorted. “Knock that slag off,” he said batting Skywarp’s hand away. “And I don’t care if you believe me or not. I walked in on the end of it, and saw them for myself. This is good. We can use this.”

“I don’t think it would be all that smart to double cross Prime,” Thundercracker said. “Much less Soundwave.”

“I don’t plan to. But they already have an established trust, and I’ll use whatever resources I can get my hands on to bring Megatron down. I’m tired of living like this! I want to go home and get off this slagging mudball world! I want-“

Starscream cut off as the trine channel pinged. Skywarp and Thundercracker stiffened.

“What the frag?”

“I gave it to Soundwave,” Starscream told them, and began extricating himself from their cozy pile. “Check Megatron’s location, and go see to the Cassettes. I’ll go up to Soundwave.” He pulled a cloth from his subspace and gave his armor a quick wipe down, then tossed it to Thundercracker. “Hurry. I want to know where that slagger is before I run into him.”

Skywarp nodded and disappeared in a flash. Thundercracker turned toward Soundwave’s quarters, and Starscream headed to the Command Deck.

~ | ~

( Unexpected - Part Four )

( AprilRaven’s Table of Contents )

( LadyDragon76’s Table of Contents )