Author's note. Merry Christmas to all my readers and a Happy Hogmanay.
Written by me and a friend.
Enjoy and please review.
Thundercracker reached over and grabbed a blanket from a bedside cabinet before draping it over himself and his other two trine mates. Starscream felt himself slip into recharge, his mind and body relaxing into his Trine mates.
Skywarp nuzzled him tighter as he felt this happed, glad by the turn of events. As he felt Starscream fall deeply into recharge, he murmured over to Thundercracker.
"What are we going to do TC?" About Starscream?"
Starscream shifted slightly in his dreams whimpering softly as they turned dark.
"I don't know," Thundercracker replied softly as he gently rubbed Starscream's front.
"But we can't allow what's been happening to continue, no matter what Starscream says."
Starscream curled into the warm hand as if trying to avoid the dreams.
"I can't believe this has been going on for so long," Skywarp said quietly as he tucked the blanket more firmly around the sleeping Mech.
"And we didn't even realise."
Starscream's body jerked violently as Megatron loomed in his dream. He whimpered and tried to get away, clawing at anything he could get his hands on.
The two Seekers started as Starscream started moaning and twisting about in his sleep. As Skywarp loosened his grip, Starscream started thrashing as though someone was trying to hurt him.
"Starscream," Thundercracker cried as Starscream did this, realising he was having some sort of nightmare.
"Starscream, its okay, your safe here with me and Skywarp."
A voice reached through to him, and he jerked awake, a sheen of coolant covering his body. He looked around madly, trying to find Megatron.
"Shh, it's okay, it's just us," Skywarp said soothingly, holding Starscream close.
"You're safe with us Starscrea, no one can hurt you," Thundercracker added softly.
Starscream buried his face in Skywarp's neck, trying to get a hold of the overwhelming fear that thrashed around inside him.
"Oh Star," Thundercracker said unhappily as Skywarp hugged their leader.
"This is why this can't continue, see how you're suffering."
He and Skywarp sent waves of comfort over the bond, trying to calm their shaking wing mate who was struggling to control the fear he was feeling.
Starscream moaned and slowly calmed down, eagerly drinking down the comfort. He went limp and sighed softly, nuzzling Skywarp's neck.
"Does this happen a lot, Starscream?" Thundercracker asked softly.
"Y-yeah. It happens a lot. Almost every time I go to sleep."
"Then we have to do something about it," Thundercracker said, very serious. "You can't function properly if you wake up like this every night."
Starscream sighed and trembled.
"I've been trying to find something to do about it."
"You got us now," Skywarp said. "Together, we can think of something."
"Warp's right," Thundercracker said firmly. "You're not alone in this."
Starscream pulled back with a soft smile in his lips.
"I-I don't know what to say. I've been alone for so long..."
"Not anymore," both his trine mates said at the same time. They all laughed at this before Skywarp said.
"So, any ideas?"
"I've exhausted all my ideas," Starscream said sadly.
"I could prank him until he begs for mercy?" Skywarp suggested hopefully.
Starscream snorted and said bitterly, "Yeah, I could use a few more whip scars."
Skywarp winced and Thundercracker said firmly.
"I think we have to be a bit clever than that, Warp. We have to find a way that he can't punish Starscream like this anymore, not give him more reasons."
Starscream hung his head and brought his knees up to his chest.
"It's hopeless."
"No it's not," thundercracker said firmly. "You're just so used to this situation, you think it's hopeless. But there is a way out of this, we just need to think and plan."
Skywarp nodded his agreement.
"Well you'd be used to being raped every time someone screwed up!"
"But why does he have to take it out on you?" Skywarp asked in confusion. "Why not any of the others?"
"B-because he likes fragging me," Starscream muttered.
The two Seekers scowled, they could tell Megatron was just using any excuse he could think up so he could frag their leader. Their overall opinion of the Decepticon tyrant was steadily going down by the breem.
"Slagger," Thundercracker nodded as Skywarp said.
"You said it, TC."
Before Starscream could repress it, disbelief flared on his side of the bond. He couldn't believe that they hadn't caught his lie.
Thundercracker and Skywarp both turned sharply to stare at their trine leader as the strange emotion flooded from Starscream's end.
"Starscream?" Thundercracker said slowly. "What was that?"
"What was what?" Starscream asked quickly.
"That feeling we just got from you," Thundercracker said sternly. "Like you were...confused about what we just said. But why would that confuse you..."
"Unless you weren't being honest with us," Skywarp finished.
They both stared at him.
"Now why wouldn't I be honest with you?" Starscream lied.
"You didn't tell us about the rape," Thundercracker pointed out. "You kept it hidden from us. And we know you're hiding something now."
"What does it matter to you now?" Starscream shrieked. "Why can't you just leave well enough alone?!"
"It matters," Thundercracker said firmly. "If we don't know everything, then how can we help you?"
"Maybe I keep these things from you for a reason! I don't want him to take your innocence too."
"Innocence?" Skywatrp said with a grin. "What innocence?"
"Regardless, we still want to know," Thundercracker said quietly.
"How did he recruit you?" Starscream asked bitterly. "A drink and a few nice words? Well, he killed my family and threatened to do the same to me if I didn't join and let him have me. I asked why and he told me because I was designed to be a whore, from my voice to my body. I was only a youngling. He took my life and my innocence. I lost my virginity of my body and my spark because he made me watch my family die."
Both Seekers blanched with shock and stared in horror at Starscream. They couldn't believe what they had just heard. It was far worse than anything they could have imagined.
"Oh Starscream," Thundercracker said softly, misery on his face as he drew the red Seeker into his arms. "I'm so sorry."
Skywarp also wrapped his arms around his Trine leader in a tight hug.
Starscream whimpered.
"Do you know what it's like to see your own creators get killed?"
Thundercracker sighed a 'no' but Skywarp suddenly whimpered 'yes'.
"I-I saw my Femme creator get crush by falling debris, I couldn't' save her."
Starscream nuzzled Skywarp.
"Mine were blown to bits," he said quietly. "After they saw Megatron take me."
Skywarp whimpered and buried his face in Starscream's chassis, he couldn't bare to hear about it. Thundercracker hung his head in sadness, grief welling within him for his two Trine mates, Starscream especially.
Starscream went silent. He could feel his Trine mates' discomfort at what he was saying. He gently began to massage their wings, humming a little tune to try and get them comfortable again.
They both mewed as he did this and snuggled closer to him. As he carried on gently massaging their wings, they began to feel a little bit calmer but they still couldn't forget what he and told them.
"You know," Thundercracker said softly as Starscream's fingers dug into sensitive wiring. "I'm starting to wonder why we serve under him?"
"He threatened me that if left, he would hurt you guys. That's what's keeping me here," Starscream admitted quietly.
They both considered this and then Skywarp said slowly.
"What if all three of us left?"
"To join the Autobots?" Starscream asked.
"Perhaps," Thundercracker said thoughtfully. "But is that what we want? And do you think they would let us join?"
Starscream gave a thoughtful hum.
"I would like to join the Autobots. I miss talking with Skyfire. He was my best friend. Maybe we could contact him and get him to speak with us alone."
"That actually sounds like a good idea Starscream," Thundercracker said, a smile spreading across his face. "That Skyfire, he's barely been involved with this war, so he'll be less likely to hold a grudge and more likely to listen. I think we should try and contact him as soon as possible."
Starscream smiled and reached up to press his comm. Knowing Skyfire, he was probably working on an invention.
Skyfire? Are you there?
Starscream? Came Skyfire's surprised but gentle voice. IS that really you?
Y-yeah. I was wondering if you'd meet me and my Trine somewhere. We want to talk to you.
Of course Starscream Skyfire replied, hearing the serious but sincere tone in Starscream's voice. We can meet at the cliff top by these coordinates, they are neutral ground
There was a pause and then Skyfire said.
I look forward to seeing you again, Starscream
He signed off after quickly sending Starscream the coordinates for the meeting.
Starscream smiled and turned to his wing brothers.
"Well, let's go. Here's the coordinates."
They both grinned and Skywarp said.
"We'd better get armoured up then, wouldn't want to make the wrong impression, would we?"
Starscream smiled and wriggled out from between Skywarp and Thundercracker, stretching as he stood. He walked over and started pulling his armour on.
Skywarp grinned and rolled off the berth to start putting his on as well. Thundercracker smiled, happy that his leader was feeling much better. He too got off and went to where his armour was.
In no time at all, they were all properly armoured.
"C'mon. At this rate, Skyfire will be waiting for us. I don't want to keep him waiting."
Starscream pulled his wing brothers through the halls, reaching the launch pad in record time.
With a whoop they threw themselves into the open air, letting the wind whoosh through their systems before transforming and soaring away. Thundercracker and Skywarp fell into formation behind Starscream as usual and allowed him to lead them to the location.
In no time at all they were approaching and could dimly make out a tall figure waiting for them.
Starscream felt nervousness ease into his mind. Could Skyfire truly forgive him for what he'd done? He transformed and landed a ways away from Skyfire, keeping his optics on the ground as old shyness welled up inside him.
Skyfire smiled as he saw Starscream land, he could tell by the Seekers manner that this was truly no trap. Behind his old friend, the two other members of his trine landed, obviously for moral support.
"Hello Starscream," Skyfire greeted with a smile before saying politely. "Thundercracker, Skywarp."
"Hi, Skyfire," Starscream said shyly. "I-it's been a while."
"It sure has," replied Skyfire, taking a step forward but not getting to close. "What is it you wanted to discuss with me Starscream?"
"Well, due to some...circumstances, my Trine and I wish to join the Autobots..."
Skyfire's face broke into a wide smile and he beamed.
"That's wonderful Starscream," he said as he closed the distance between them. Looking down at him, he said, still grinning. "Do you really mean it? You're going to leave that awful Mech Megatron?"
"Yes, I am. Even if the Autobots don't accept us, we're leaving the Decepticons."
"I'm sure they will," Skyfire said earnestly. "I'll talk to Optimus and try and convince him. But even if they don't, I'll remain with you, all three of you."
Thundercracker and Skywarp looked surprised at this declaration but Starscream didn't.
"You're just as kind as you were, Skyfire. And just as eager to stay with me no matter where I go."
Skyfire blushed a little but still said with a smile.
"Of course Starscream, I'll always be your friend no matter what."
Thundercracker and Skywarp were liking the Shuttle more and more.
"Shall I call Optimus now and ask him about meeting you?" Skyfire asked gently.
Starscream shyly looked away.
"I-I...thanks for that, Skyfire. And, if it's no bother, please could you see if Optimus could meet with us now? We want to do this as quickly as possible so that Megatron doesn't find out. I don't want him to touch me again."
Skyfire's smile disappeared in an instant as he said.
"Touch you? What do you mean by that, Starscream?"
His expression darkened.
"Has he been hurting you, Starscream?"
Starscream flinched and bit his bottom derma plate. His cheeks heated up.
"I-I'd rather not talk about it."
Skyfire didn't look happy but he nodded in understanding.
"Alright Starscream, I'll call Optimus like you asked."
He raised his arm and activated his comm, before calling his leader.
Optimus, it's Skyfire here, I have something very important to tell you.
Go ahead Skyfire
I have Starscream and his Trine with me, he'd like to talk about joining the Autobots
Really? This is most unexpected but if their serious, I'd be happy to talk to them. Come to the base and we can all talk
Starscream looked anxiously at Skyfire.
"Well?" he asked softly. "W-what did he say?"
Skyfire smiled and said gently.
"He's willing to hear what you have to say and wants you to come with me to the Ark."
Starscream smiled and looked relieved.
"Oh, well, I guess we can do that."
"We can go in via the entrance I use, it's usually fairly deserted," Skyfire said soothingly. "From there we can go to Optimus's office, how does that sound?"
"That sounds good," Starscream said. "I-I don't really want any difficulty from the other Autobots yet."
"Let's go then before the Ark gets busy," Skyfire said before transforming and taking off.
Starscream eagerly nodded and gestured for his Trine mates to follow them as he took off behind Skyfire. He couldn't help but dance a little in the wind.
Thundercracker and Skywarp laughed at their leaders antics, he was happier already. they did their own little dance as they followed Skyfire. All too soon, they had arrived, landing and transforming outside the large entrance Skyfire used.
"This way," Skyfire said gently and led the way inside.
Starscream followed his large friend with quiet awareness, looking around curiously. He was very cautious as he was in the Autobot base.
Luckily for the Seekers, they didn't meet anyone and in no time at all, arrived outside a door. Skyfire quickly chimed the door and was bade to come in. Optimus Prime was sitting at his desk looking over some reports but looked up as they all came in. He stood up and said.
"Starscream, I'm pleased you and your Trine could come."
Starscream immediately stepped back when Optimus rose from his chair, instinctively spreading his arms back to protect his Trine.
"I-it's good to be here Prime."
As Skyfire put a comforting hand on Starscream's solider, Optimus quickly asked.
"Would you like a seat?"
He then sat down again as he saw it was making Starscream comfortable.
Starsream nodded and gestured for his Trine to sit before he did. After making sure they were situated, Starscream sat down. The red flier couldn't help but sigh in relief as he sank into the chair. He subconsciously rubbed a sore spot on his leg from his last beating. It was nice to not put pressure on it.
Optimus's optics twinkled, a sigh that he was smiling as they made themselves comfortable. As Skyfire stood behind them, Optimus said.
"Now, I believe you wish to join the Autobots?"
As the Trine nodded, Optimus asked.
"May I ask what your reasons for this decision are?"
Starscream became very still, his face set in harsh lines. He had hoped this would come up later, but as it was, he found he didn't want to answer. He bit his bottom lip and managed to whisper.
"D-do we have to tell you that?"
Optimus nodded.
"I'm afraid so. You don't have to tell me everything but I do need a reason for your sudden change of Spark."
Starscream shifted nervously.
"My Trine found something out and we all decided the way to make it stop was to leave. I can't take the abuse anymore."
Starscream lowered his optics. It took him a second to realize what had come out of his mouth. He stiffened noticeably and sank back into the chair fearfully.
There was a soft gasp and Skyfire moved forward to place a comforting hand on Starscream's shoulder. Optimus looked saddened by what Starscream had just told him but he simply nodded and said.
"I understand Starscream, you don't have to say any more."
He paused and then said gently.
"If you do ever feel up to talking about what happened, my door is always open and we do have a couple of Mechs who are qualified consular."
He then thought of something and quickly asked.
"Are any of you in need to Medical attention?"
Starscream kept his mouth closed. Perhaps his wing brothers wouldn't say that he needed to be looked at. He personally didn't want a medic touching him. Hook had never been gentle and Starscream had often had to go over the Constructicon's patches and fix them himself.
Skyfire saw Thundercracker and Skywarp glance at each other, indicating that Starscream did have injuries. Gently he said.
"Starscream, if you've got injuries you should get them seen to, First Aid is very good and gentle."
"No! I'm fine! I can handle it on my own, like I always have!"
Starscream pushed himself out of the chair and huddled as far away from the others as he could, wrapping his arms around himself.
Immediately, his Trine went to him, wrapping their arms around him. Optimus stayed where he was, not wanting to upset him any more than he already was. Skyfire however moved forward and bent down in front of Starscream.
"You don't have to handle it on your own Starscream, not here. I know it's hard to change what you've had to do for years but you need to let us help you. I'll help you," he finished holding out his hand to Starscream.
Starscream felt his optics tear up and his voice came out high.
"No. Touch means pain. Medics cause pain. I don't want it to hurt anymore! Skyfire, it hurts! Make it stop!"
"Oh Starscream," Skyfire said softly, leaning forward and embracing the shaking Seeker. "What has he done to you?"
Thundercracker looked over at Optimus.
"This is why we've left, we can't protect him but we won't let this happen anymore."
Optimus nodded but before he could say anything Skyfire spoke.
"It wouldn't hurt Starscream, your trine and me could be there to make sure you weren't hurt in anyway. Please I know it's hard but you have to have someone see to you. I just want you look after properly."
Starscream trembled and nuzzled into Skyfire.
"You'll stay with me? The whole time?"
"Of course Starscream," Skyfire said with a smile. "For as long as you like."
"And you can pick the Medic Starscream," Optimus added. "Either Ratchet or First Aid."
Starscream smiled and nodded. If Skyfire was with him, then it would be okay.
"Okay. Um, Skyfire, would you choose the medic?"
Skyfire smiled.
"Okay Starscream. I think First Aid would be a good choice. Shall we go there now and get it over with?"
Starscream nodded and stepped closer to Skyfire, eyes Optimus a little warily.
"Yeah, but I hope you don't run when you see what he's done to me."
"You know I won't Starscream," Skyfire said gently, an arm around the Seeker protectively.
Looking over at Optimus, he said.
"Do you mind if we go, Optimus?"
"No Skyfire, go right ahead. I'll call First Aid and let him know you're coming."
Starscream leaned closer to his old friend as he led them out of the office and down the halls to the medbay. Thundercracker and Skywarp were close behind them, and he was glad for their company as the Autobot base made nervous.
"It's alright," Skyfire said softly. "There aren't any other patients in the Med Bay at the moment so you'll only see Ratchet and First Aid."
The Seekers nodded but were still nervous. And even though they knew Skyfire was gentle, they were still grateful for his large size as it made them feel safer. All too soon, they had reached the Med bay.
Starscream buried his face in Skyfire's side as they walked in. Oh how he hated medics! In his experience they were rough and brought pain.
Skyfire placed his arm tighter around Starscream as he led the three Seekers in.
"Hello First Aid, I believe you're expecting us,"
"Indeed I am," said the Protectibot with a gentle smile. Seeing how shy Starscream was, he said gently.
"Why don't you all get set up at that berth over ther, the one with the blinds, I come when you're ready."
Starscream followed Skyfire over to the berth and watched as the larger flier closed the blinds.
"Umm, what does he mean by get set up?" Starscream asked nervously.
"He means for the three of you to get onto the berth and prepare yourselves," Skyfire explained gently.
Seeing Thundercracker's and Skywarp's looks, he said.
"Aid's going to give you a quick check over as well, just to make sure everything's as it should be."
He turned back to Starscream and said gently.
"Can you take off your armour Starscream?"
Starscream gave a little whimper before complying. He slowly stripped off in front of his old friend until he stood naked in front of him. He kept his optics on the ground and shivered in the change of temperature,
Skyfire gently touched his cheek, raising his face to say.
"Your beautiful, Starscream."
"I'm scared, Skyfire. The things he did to me..."
Starscream shivered.
"None of that matters to me Starscream, it's the person inside that I care about." Skyfire said softly, cupping his cheeks.
He leaned forward and kissed Starscream's forehead, saying.
"I'll be there for you."
Starscream sighed and leaned towards Skyfire, not wanting the soft kiss to end.
"I've missed you, Skyfire. I really have. Nobody's ever treated me like you do. I-I..."
Starscream paused then whispered over the bond.
I-I think I love him, guys. What do I do?
His Trine mates both grinned and both spoke at the same time.
"Tell him,"
"Frag him,"
Thundercracker elbowed Skywarp after this suggestion before nodding encouragingly at Starscream.
Starscream blushed and shifted uncomfortably.
"I'm ready. Can we get First Aid in here please? It's getting a little chilly.
"Of course, forgive me Starscream," Skyfire said, indicating he get on the berth.
The Shuttle stuck his head around the screen and called to First Aid before going to take Starscream's hand, rubbing his shoulder with the other. First Aid came soon after, a gentle smile on his face.
"Hello Starscream, are you ready?"
Starscream looked away from the medic shyly.
"Yeah."
First Aid smiled and came over and started examining the red Seeker. His fingers were very gentle as he did this, at times noting stuff on a data pad. Finally he looked into Starscream's optics and asked.
"May I examine your Port Starscream or are you too uncomfortable with that?"
Starscream trembled but spread his legs. He pressed harder against Skyfire and buried his face in the larger mech's neck.
First Aid quickly went to work, making sure to touch Starscream as little as possible and when he did it was very gently. After quickly wiring something down he asked Starscream.
"Does it hurt when you interface Starscream?"
Starscream blushed and bit his bottom lip as he nodded. He couldn't bear to look at anyone, so he nuzzled harder into him.
Frist Aid nodded before saying.
"I thought that might be the case, you've got some bad damage down there I'm afraid. But the good news is that I can fix that if you'll let me, it's mostly destroyed wires that are causing the problems."
Starscream looked at First Aid, fear glittering in his optics.
"Will it hurt? I-it always hurts when anyone touches me down there. I don't want it to hurt! Skyfire!"
"It won't hurt," Skyfire said gently as he squeezed Starscream's hand. "You can have painkillers to stop any hurt and First Aid will be very gentle."
Starscream thought about it for a second before nodding his consent.
"As long as it doesn't hurt. I don't want it to hurt."
First Aid nodded.
"I'll do my best to ensure it doesn't,"
He took out a needle from his bag.
"I'm just going to inject this into you Starscream and while it takes hold, I'll get the necessary things. Is that alright?"
Starscream cautiously eyed the needle before nodding. If Skyfire trusted First Aid, he would trust the medic too.
First Aid smiled and stepped forward, making sure that Starscream could see what he was doing.
"There'll be a brief sting," he warned before inserting it into Starscream's arm, Skyfire holding tightly to the Seeker's clenched hand.
Starscream winced at the feeling of the fluids going into his body. He always hated that part. He felt the effects of the shot immediately, and he sank down against Skyfire with a sigh.
Skyfire snuggled the limp seeker against him on the berth while Thundercracker and Skywarp stroked him gently. First Aid quickly went off to get his things, it didn't take him long.
Laying all his things down on a nearby table, he said.
"I'm going to remove the damaged wiring first Starscream. It will feel uncomfortable but it shouldn't hurt,"
Starscream gave a soft hum, a small smile on his lips. It didn't hurt, it made him feel kind of float and free. It was a nice feeling.
Skywarp grinned as Starscream did this.
"He's pretty out of it,"
First Aid looked slightly sheepish.
"I gave him a pretty strong dose to ensure there was no pain," he said softly as he carefully opened Starscream's legs to get at his Port.
"I'm about to touch your Port Starscream," he said in a much louder voice. "Then I'm going to remove those bad wires, okay?"
Starscream looked at First Aid with dazed optics and let out a giggle. The medic was talking, but he didn't really get what he was saying. He looked up at Skyfire and asked in ancient in a child-like voice.
"What's he sayin' 'Fire? He sounds funny!"
"He's telling you what he's doing," Skyfire said in a clear voice, trying to ignore Skywarp's giggles. First Aid really had dosed Starscream.
Oh, okay," Starscream replied in the same voice. "Why is he wearin' a mask, 'Fire, and where's the other funny-talkin' medic?"
Starscream giggled and watched First Aid with still dazed, but bright optics. There was a childlike innocence and wonder about him that he broadcast through the bond. He paused and started to explore the bond with fascination, poking and prodding at Skywarp and Thundercracker. He laughed.
Skywarp eagerly welcomed it, he himself had a sort of innocence about him, that was where a lot of his mischief came from. Thundercracker was a little more cautious but as Starscream happily broadcast, he opened up a little more, sending a wave of love to him.
"Ratchet's away at the moment Starscream," Skyfire said, laughing a little at the thought of what the grouchy Medic would say if he heard Starscream talking.
First Aid meanwhile, was now removing wires and replacing them as quickly and as gently as he could. Starscream giggled again as feelings came over the bond. It was warm and nice and strange all at once. He tilted his head back and looked up at Skyfire.
"Where's the other mech with a mask? Ya know, the red and blue one? He isn't gonna hurt me is he?"
Starscream looked around nervously, still in his childlike phase.
"Optimus? Of course not Starscream," Skyfire said firmly but gently. "He's here to protect you, like he protects all of us."
Thundercracker and Skywarp sent waves of reassurance over the bond.
Starscream smiled.
"If he doesn't, then you will! I know it!"
Starscream looked back down at First Aid and watched interested.
"I promise," Skyfire whispered as he held Starscream close to him.
First Aid glanced up at Starscream and smiled before going back to work. He suddenly felt something touching his head and looked up in surprise to see Starscream's extended hand.
Starscream started to softly pet First Aid, his hand sliding down and releasing the catches on the mask. First Aid gasped in shock as this happened but as he was holding some delicate wires, he couldn't stop his mask falling to the ground.
Starscrewam smiled and traced down the medic's face, happily.
"Pretty."
First aid's naked face blushed furiously and he mumbled.
"Heh, I'm not pretty but thanks for saying so Starscream,"
Starscream pouted.
"You're pretty. And shy!"
The red seeker giggled and leaned forward, showing everyone just how flexible he was as his legs didn't move, and kissed First Aid on the nose. First Aid's face went nearly scarlet and he quickly lowered his optics to the ground. But then Skywarp touched his head and he looked up again.
"He's right, you are pretty," he said with a grin. "Don't know why you hide it,"
Starscream gave a squeal.
"His face is red, Warpy!"
Starscream happily settled back against Skyfire, his optics bright.
"Don't tease Starscream," Skyfire said gently, his voice full of laughter, this was going much better than he'd thought.
"His face is really red though," Skywarp pointed out helpfully earning a punch in the arm from Thundercracker.
"Warp's permanently high," he explained to First Aid who chuckled and went back to his work.
Starscream immediately looked regretful.
"I'm sorry, Skyfire. Please forgive me?"
The red one's optics looked pleadingly up at Skyfire.
"Of course Starscream, I wasn't cross," Skyfire said quickly, hugging the Seeker to him. "But First Aid's very shy so we have to be extra nice to him especially when he's fixing you up,"
Starscream nodded and looked down at the medic.
"Sorry, First Aid. I was only teasin'. I don't really get to do that much anymore. It's this damned drug you put in me. It makes me lose my inhibitions about this stuff. Usually it's Skywarp that does it."
"That's okay," First aid said as Skywarp went "Hey," indignantly.
"I was trying to ensure that you felt no pain and could relax," First Aid explained before giving a wry smile. "Perhaps I over did it,"
Starscream snorted and fought through the effects of the drugs
."Yeah, me not being able to understand anything but ancient for a while there wasn't any indication that you damn near overdosed me," Starscream said sarcastically.
First Aid ducked his head shamefully.
"I did not realise your systems were so sensitive Starscream...Maybe Ratchet would have been better than me,"
Starscream winced. He hadn't meant to say that. He sighed and his Trine leader instinct kicked in. He reached over to gently take First Aid's face in his hands, lifting the pale blue optics to meet his own.
"I'm sorry, First Aid. I didn't mean that. I-it's just how I cope with all the things Megatron's done with me. I don't mean anything by it."
Blue optics searched red ones before First Aid nodded.
"I understand, thank you Starscream,"
Glancing down at his work, he said.
"I'll soon be finished, just need to replace this last piece of wiring,"
Starscream nodded and smiled as he released First Aid's face to settle back against Skyfire. He sighed and stopped resisting the pull of the drugs, relaxing completely against the bigger flier. He didn't even move when he heard the medbay door open and Optimus Prime and Ratchet speaking.
"Are you sure about this Optimus?"
"Yes Ratchet I am," came Optimus voice before they stopped at the sight of the screen.
One set of footsteps approached the screen and then Ratchet's voice asked.
"Is everything alright Aid?"
Before Starscream could stop it, he giggled. Damn those drugs were affecting him!
"Aid?" came Rathcet's surprised and suspicious voice right behind the screen. First Aid quickly said.
"It's alright Ratchet, it's just Starscream,"
He then added sheepishly.
"I may have over dosed him a little,"
Starscream gave another giggle.
"Hi, Ratchet!"
"Er, hi Starscream," Came Ratchet' slightly uncertain voice, he clearly hadn't been expecting that.
Starscream outright laughed at that, he loved doing that to mechs. At least he used to. When he'd tried it on Megatron, it had ceased to be funny. Starscream abruptly stopped laughing as he started slipping in on himself.
Thundercracker and Skywarp however sensed this and quickly sent waves of comfort to him while saying out loud.
"Don't withdraw Starscream, we're here and nothing can hurt you,"
Starscream turned to them, a confused expression on his face.
"Hmm?"
"You were going into yourself Starscream," Thundercracker explained. "We don't want you doing that anymore,"
Starscream's optics flickered in confusion.
"I was?"
His Trine mates nodded.
"Yeah, we could sense it," Skywarp said gently.
Starscream looked down.
"I don't even realize it anymore. It just...happens."
"It'll be force of habit," Skyfire suggested gently, stroking Starscream's cheek. "But we'll help you stop that; we make sure you never have a reason to do it,"
Starscream shrugged.
"Memories trigger it now too. It's just...I don't know what it is, but it takes the pain away."
"Oh Starscream," Skyfire said softly. "Once you're away from that slagger, it'll become easier, you won't have to dwell on bad things,"
At that moment, First Aid looked up and said.
"I'm done, Starscream,"
"May I examine you Starscream," came Ratchet's gruff voice from behind the screen.
Starscream looked up at the shadow of Ratchet and pressed back against Skyfire.
"Yeah."
Ratchet quickly came around the screen, giving the gathered Mechs a quick smile. He then bent down and examined First Aid's handiwork. After a moment, he said.
"You've done a good job Aid, what I would have done,"
Starscream blushed as Ratchet looked closely at his port. It was uncomfortable to have every mech looking at the one place on his body that he really wanted to keep hidden. Well besides his spark of course.
Ratchet didn't look to long; he was too experienced and only needed a short gaze to take everything in. He straightened and looked over the rest of Starscream.
"Do you have any other problems that need seeing to?"
Starscream gave a little hum.
Should I show him the marks on my back?
"If there is anything," Ratchet said gently. "It would be better if I saw to it now, rather than later. by then it might be too late to do anything about it,"
Starscream thought for another moment then turned around.
"There some scars. Some are newer than others."
"Ah," Ratchet said in understanding as he leaned forward, First Aid right behind him, to examine Starscream's back.
As Skyfire gently held Starscream close, the two Medics looked over the criss-crossing scars. Finally Ratchet said.
"There is some treatment that can get rid of most of these, maybe not the oldest but a good majority."
Ratchet pulled back so he could look into Starscream's optics.
"This want take at least a whole cycle, would you like to do this tomorrow so that we would have the whole day?"
"It would give you and your Trine a chance to settle in first," First Aid added.
Starscream nodded.
"I would like to settle in first. A good night's rest would help me too," Starscream paused then nervously said, "Hey Optimus?"
"Yes Starscream?" Optimus's voice called back, he sounded much closer to the screen than he had before but he didn't appear. It seemed he wanted to respect Starscream's privacy.
"Umm, there's an oil field a couple miles west of here that Megatron's planning to raid tomorrow. I, erm, thought you'd like to know..." Starscream trailed off uncertainly, staring at the shadow of the Autobot leader on the screen.
There was a pause and then Optimus's warm voice spoke,
"Thank you Starscream, I will get onto it immediately, you and your Trine rest now,"
And with that Optimus strode away, intent on finding his officers to discuss a plan for defending the oil filed. Skyfire meanwhile smiled and kissed Starscream's head.
"That was a wonderful thing to do Starscream, I'm proud of you,"
Starscream leaned into Skyfire and gave a hum of delight. He loved being this close with his old friend, but he wished they could be more.
Thundercracker sensed this feeling of longing and said through their bond.
"What makes you think you can't?"
Starscream looked over at the blue seeker.
"I don't know. I'm not brave enough to tell him. Besides, he'll think it's stupid that a 'Con like me could love."
"But you're not just a Con to him," Thundercracker pointed out. "You're his best friend and from what I've seen so far, he cares a lot for you. Perhaps more than you think,"
Starscream frowned.
"You know, it's times like these that I wish I was as blunt as Skywarp. He could tell him easily and wouldn't think twice."
"I could tell him if you like," Skywarp helpfully suggested but Thundercracker said firmly.
"No Warp, this is for Starscream and Starscream alone to do, if he wants,"
Starscream looked down at his hands.
"Actually TC, I think I'd rather have Warp do it."
"Oh Starscream, how would that sound," Thundercracker began but too late, Skywarp was already speaking.
"Hey Skyfire, Starscream has something he wants me to tell you,"
Starscream nervously bit his lip as Skyfire looked over at his Trine mate. He silently prayed that Skywarp wouldn't mess it up.
"Oh?" Skyfire said curiously, glancing at Starscream before looking back at Skywarp.
Skywarp grinned.
"Yeah, he wants to have your Sparklings, so you'd better take him to your berth sharpish,"
Thundercracker groaned loudly.
Starscream gave a cry and lashed out, knocking the purple seeker off the berth. His face was positively burning as he froze in Skyfire's grasp. He was afraid of what the shuttle was going to do.
"Starscream?"Skyfire asked in a slightly bemused voice. "What did Skywarp mean by that?"
Starscream blushed harder and his voice came out quiet.
"W-well. I, er, asked him to tell you that I-I have feelings for you, but he had to go and screw it up like that."
Starscream held his breath and waited to be hit or yelled at.
But then he felt a soft hand on his cheek which lifted his face up to look into Skyfire's smiling face. And then Skyfire spoke.
"I have feelings for you too, Starscream."
Starscream felt hope bloom in his spark.
"R-really? You do?"
"Yes," Skyfire said softly, smiling down at Starscream. "I love you with my entire Spark,"
Starscream smiled happily and pressed into Skyfire's body, nuzzling the larger mech's neck.
"Skywarp, this doesn't mean you're off the hook," he murmured.
"I just told it how it was," Skywarp said with a large pout, still sprawled on the floor.
Ratchet shook his head with a wry smile.
"Oh yes, we're going to enjoy having you guys here,"
"Well of course," Skywarp said with a grin up at Ratchet. "Everyone loves us."
"Oh yeah. Especially Megatron," Starscream said bitterly.
"Don't think about him," Skyfire said sternly. "He's not worth it. I'll show you want love really means."
Starscream smiled and snuggled into Skyfire's side. He stayed there a moment before sighing.
"I guess I'd better get my armour on."
"We can go and sort out your new quarters," Skyfire suggested, gently stroking his back.
"How does that sound?"
"Yeah, I suppose," Starscream said as he got up.
He slid off the berth and quickly pulled his armour on. He stretched then looked over at Skywarp and Thundercracker.
"You two ready?"
"Don't forget to come back here tomorrow?" ratchet reminded them sternly. I" want to deal with your back as soon as posisible Starscream,"
"If you punish like Hook does, I'll never miss an appointment," Starscream said with a shiver.
"Hmm, how does he punish?" Ratchet asked curiously.
Starscream shivered.
"Let's just say anaesthetics are in short supply and Hook gets to choose who gets them of not."
Ratchet's face darkened but he simply said.
"Well, you needn't worry about that, Starscream. I make sure to always have a good supply and if you've got a serious injury, you definitely get one."
He gave a wry smile.
"Even for injuries caused by inane stupidity,"
Starscream gave a relieved smile.
"Thank you." He looked over to Skyfire.
"May we leave now?"
Skyfire nodded and after he had gotten off the berth, led the way out of the Med Bay. Skyfire briefly spoke into his comm before turning to smile at them.
"There's a nice large room next to where I stay which would be perfect for you, it's near an exit onto the volcano side,"
Starscream smiled.
"That sounds wonderful. Especially being...that close to you," his voice got quieter as he spoke, nearly whispering the last part.
Skyfire smiled and wrapped an arm around Starscream's waist.
"You can come and see me whenever you like," he said softly. "If you need something or just want a chat."
Starscream blushed and shyly looked away.
"Thanks, Skyfire. I-I will."
From behind Skyfire and Starscream, Thundercracker and Skywarp smiled at each other. It was good to see their leader with someone who was so caring. He really deserved it; especially after all he had done for them.
Author's note. Starscream and Skyfire become even closer but just how close? Find out next time, until then.