War Paint

by Zsocca

Three Neutral femmes run into Team Prime on Earth. Getting friendly with the Autobots turns out to be a bad idea because they get stuck on the Nemesis by accident, and now have to survive among their manipulative Decepticon hosts. Megatron believes that he can make them side with his faction. But will they? - TFP canon-divergence (SWxOC, SSxOC, KOxOC) Rewritten full version -

17. Atonement

This chapter itself is 84 pages so buckle in guys! It's long due to its nature: we finally learn what went down in the past with Soundwave and Mercy. ;)

No Halo or Crossflare in this, sorry, but they will return next chap!

I took some creative liberties that you'll surely notice, but as always, enjoy!

Warnings: I don't own TFP or its characters but I own my OCs. Possible wrong grammar and misspellings in the text ahead.

Also, be wary of any shower scenes if you like to skip slightly more sensitive content. You were warned. :)

---

Chapter 17: Atonement

...

Mercy POV

Bots were swarming the bar and Mixtape asked me to sing a little bit longer than my shift needed me to because customers wanted to hear even more of my unusual songs. I did expect that the masses would be surprised, but I did not think they would enjoy Earth-songs this much.

Still, it didn't feel right. The atmosphere didn't change quite like I wanted. Even though most of the attention was on me, I felt like they were not hearing me. They were captivated by the songs, but they did not understand why I stood on the stage, singing for them.

And by the time I would have finished up, I ran out of club songs to sing for the day. My first experience felt like a mix of success and disappointment. I thought it would be more uplifting, exhilarating.

But the atmosphere was at an all time low. It felt like I achieved nothing.

Did I choose the wrong songs? I picked them out with Frenzy yesterday night after he escorted me back to Rearview on Soundwave's orders. The minicon didn't hide his dissatisfaction but he quickly forgot his grievances when we got back to the medic and he discovered the high-grade supply in Rearview's energon storage room.

"Ooh, Doc has a load of high-grade! Jackpot!"

I chided him for not asking for permission first, then we sat down and I shared my plans for my debut with him while making notes of his suggestions. He was amazed by the recordings of Earth-songs I showed him but I couldn't explain clearly where they were from and how I downloaded them so he only said:

"You get weirder with each word you say, missy."

"The name is Mercy!"

"Oh yeah, about that, you should probably get an alias."

"Why?"

"Safety reasons."

"Okay, then….how about…Melody?"

"Too obvious."

"Fine, then what about….Lightswitch? It would suit my ability to change my colors and biolights!"

"Not too bad. Anyway, do you want a visor, by any chance? For your optics. It helps with your camouflage and protects you from the smog."

"A visor? Like yours?" I pointed between his optics with a chuckle.

"Yeah."

"I guess a pink one would go well with purple," I looked over my purple frame and pink bioloights. I wasn't accustomed to the change yet, but it couldn't be helped.

"Great, I'll get one for you by tomorrow!" Frenzy grinned and showed an enthusiastic thumbs-up.

"Why are you so happy to help me?" I inquired curiously. While he wasn't pleased with his job to babysit me, he looked excited to help me.

"I get to see you dance, that's something! And I also, uh, kinda like you I guess. You're weird but that's part of your charm."

"Aw, thank you! I like you too! You can be sweet when you want to be, Frenzy!" I grinned and leaned over to hug him but he put up a servo in protest.

"Nope! No touchy-feely! We are not that close, missy!"

"It was worth a try," I shrugged with a wide smile.

Compared to how the previous part of the day went, coming back to Rearview with a chance to convince Soundwave put me back on track. I wasn't so lost anymore with a clear goal in mind.

I had my small injury treated by Rearview and then went to recharge after Frenzy left.

The next day was my first day as a public performer. Something I never got to be in my previous life. So I was determined to make it right and make it count.

Singing club songs didn't seem to be enough yet. There had to be more…I needed to set my sights on something higher. I needed a compass, a guiding thread, to do more than just sing unusual songs. What I do here should mean something, shouldn't it?

So when Mixtape asked me to play one more song at the end of my shift, I pondered for a second, and took a look around. Among the ones gathered in here, I noticed gladiators at some of the tables. They were larger than the rest and respected, but they were also littered with scars and dents, their faces wore injuries of tough battles, their optics either hazy or cruel in a way one gets sharpened by blades. The rest, the low and middle-class bots were smaller, yet not faring so much better. They were rowdy, they sought each other out and drank to forget the city they lived in, for what was outside was an ugly place with nothing good offered in exchange for the hard work and struggle.

Misery loves company, so they gathered here to share it over a glass of high-grade accompanied by songs that should've lifted their sparks up but at the end, none of it moved them.

I was beginning to understand the atmosphere of Kaon. I glimpsed into a life I couldn't imagine before. Touched by it, feeling its filth on my armor, I wished I could help them rise. Because even if I can't help them, if they wanted to, they could make a change in their lives. If only they believed there was another way, another life, maybe they would not waste away at such a place like this.

Was it pity? Was it compassion? I didn't think too much into it. I picked out a song that came to mind in my moment of inspiration.

"Okay, I think I've got one more," I answered my boss and he grinned in delight as he waved towards the stage.

"Go on, darling!"

"Please lower the lights then, I want dusk and only small rays of light."

"Whatever you want, love!"

Nodding, a bit anxious of how people would welcome this song - which differed from what I previously presented in both pace, genre and style - I hurried back to the stage, much to my audience's approval.

The lights went out, just as I asked and I stood in the semi-darkness, taking a deep intake, preparing myself as well as the recording of the instrumental music for the song.

Will they understand it? Will it resonate with them?

No time to think. There was a momentary silence as I took my stance. Let the music start!

"~We'll be the last ones standing, be a light in the dark. Been so long on this journey, yeah we've come so far…~"

The noise of the room slightly quieted. It seems like the audience noticed that this one song differed from the others that came before. This was going to be a hit or miss, I could feel it.

"~It takes a whole life, to climb your way to the top, but it only takes a second to fall. One minute you can have everything, and before you know it, you can lose it all….~"

I slid my pedes, moving slowly as I continued with the lyrics, slipping in and out of the range of the small lightrays shining through the shadows.

"~You can push me down, but when I get back up I'll bе that much stronger. You can knock me around, but if you gonna keep going I can go a littlе longer, try to hold me back…~"

Here came the repeat of the first verse and the song started building up. I raised my voice, singing harsher, stronger. The noises quieted even more, now there was a tense attention on me but I dared not look up. Keeping my optics lidded, I turned and sang.

"~It's gonna be a long road, no telling where it's gon' go, but we know we're ready for the ride, it ain't paved in gold. We carry a heavy load, but we know we'll get there if we try…~"

I whirled around and stepped forward, more into the light, out of the shadows.

"~This is our time! Oh, all they know my sisters and brothers gonna put one foot in front of the other. Our time! Oh, all they know my sisters and brothers gonna put one foot in front of the other!~"

That's when I felt it. The shift in the atmosphere. Whatever happened, I managed to shake them out of their disinterested, resigned state. There was a curious wonder in the air. Empowered by this feeling, I finished up the strong with a stomp of pedes and the last words. Then everything went quiet.

I bowed and backed away, turning towards the stairs down from the stage. Whispering started, and the noise gradually strengthened back to its original volume. I felt elated and nervous at the same time.

Mixtape welcomed me with a strange expression, and I wasn't sure it would be positive.

"Uh, that was an interesting one. I thought you would do something similar to before…"

"I felt like the audience needed something else," I answered with an apologetic smile. "Was it a good first try?"

"Certainly…but let's keep the style similar to what you did in the first half, 'kay?"

"I'll try."

"Now get back to the staff room, have your share."

"Thank you!" I nodded to him respectfully then jogged back for my share of energon-sweets which were prepared separately for us performers.

"Whoa, you rocked!" Twist clapped his servos together when I entered. "Still got the chills from your voice! That's talent!"

"Rare of me to agree with Twist, but I do," Highnote added with little emotion shown on his face.

Overflow wasn't present, which was strange because she was supposed to be my cover for tonight if things went wrong but I didn't mind her absence that much. I took my share of sweets then excused myself and headed out to where I knew Frenzy was waiting for me.

He was supposed to be my escort home. And I wanted to hear his opinion since I couldn't see him in the audience but I knew he was there.

Several mechs tried to stop me on my way out, asking for my comm-number - which was the nicer kind of approach compared to those who shamelessly touched me - but I nervously shook my head as I hurried by them and found Frenzy standing near the entrance.

"Finally!" I felt relief as I joined him, but frowned when I saw his perplexed expression as he measured me with crossed arms.

"What is it? Is there something wrong?"

"No, no…just…what was with that last song? I don't remember you talking about it yesterday."

"Oh, I improvised," I shrugged and started forward. Frenzy fell into step beside me, but his head was still occupied with thoughts as he looked up.

"It was different from the rest. Were you…by any chance trying to tell us something?"

"I'm glad you noticed!" I dropped some energon-sweets in his servos, much to his delight. "I felt like my audience needed some encouragement."

"Hmm," Frenzy munched on the sweets as he mumbled something incomprehensible.

"Was it good?"

"Yeah. Weird, but good."

"Then it was worth the try!" I grinned down at him.

If he liked it, maybe others did too.

Rearview welcomed us with tired optics, seemingly exhausted from his work but still managed a smile.

"How did it go? Are they keeping you?"

"Yes! I'll be able to pay you by the end of the week!" I smiled back gratefully and he nodded in satisfaction as he ushered us inside.

"So what's the plan for tomorrow?" Frenzy asked with a grin as we sat by the table in the living room.

I chuckled and filed over my recordings. Tomorrow had to be more impactful. Let's give this a try!

---

Next day, with my mood slightly improved compared to before, I made my way over the city with Frenzy by my side to Soundwave's workshop. I figured I could drop by before I head to the 'Energizer' for tonight's shift.

It was tiring to walk on pedes the whole way but I had to rest my wings after my last stunt.

When I got there, I witnessed a street fight and Frenzy carefully maneuvered us through the crowd in one piece.

"Is this common?"

"Pretty much. There are lots of hot-headed bots around here," he shrugged.

I figured he was used to it by now but I doubted that I would ever get accustomed to such a scene on the streets.

"Ah, Soundwave has a match today by the way, I guess we will have to wait till he gets back."

"He has a match? Right now?" I gaped and halted in shock. "Why didn't you tell me?!"

Frenzy turned with a confused expression.

"Should I have? My Boss' schedule has nothing to do with you."

"B-but…! Let's hurry!" I took his servo and pulled him along as I quickened my steps towards the workshop.

"Hey! Stop dragging me! Missy, you better let go!"

When we got there the workshop was dark and closed. Frenzy easily unlocked it and strolled in with a smug face.

"Okay, listen to me femme! No touching anything, no nosing around or else we are both gonna get in trouble. I let you in but that doesn't mean you're welcome!"

"I'll be careful," I nodded anxiously but my thoughts were occupied by more important questions, "So when does he usually get back? Does he often have injuries?"

"No, if it's a match till first blood," Frenzy shrugged. "If it's a death-match then it depends."

"On what?"

"The size and weaponry of the opponent. Anyway, why do you care?"

"Why wouldn't I? And why don't you? Isn't he important to you?"

"Hey, don't get personal with me, missy! Of course I care about him, but I also trust him and believe me, he is one tough guy. You don't have to worry this much about him, geez, you don't even know him!"

I wanted to retort, but he had a point. I cast my gaze down, unsure about what to say.

Frenzy raised an optic ridge and crossed his arms.

"Do you have a crush on my Boss, or what? You seem awfully concerned about him even after what he did to you!"

I bit my lower lip and flushed slightly as I fidgeted with my digits nervously. Past-Soundwave did some questionable things but I couldn't really blame him or resent him for it. Was I too quick to forgive? Just because I liked his future self?

Frenzy took my silence as a yes.

"Whoa, you do! Slag, forget I ever said something! I don't wanna know what kind of masochistic scrap you are into!"

"I-I'm not!" I flushed deeper, but he put his servos on his audio-receptors and turned, loudly singing some wacky tune as he strolled away.

I followed him, trying to convince him it wasn't like that, when our bickering was cut short by Ravage's arrival.

The cat-like minicon grunted at my sight but otherwise silently jogged in. I gasped as I realized he was leaking energon and limped on his left hind-leg.

"Ravage! You're injured!" I ran to him but all I got was a warning growl so I raised both servos in a placating manner. "It's okay, I just want to help."

"I wouldn't try in your place," Frenzy shook his head. "He will bite your servo off."

Oh. I stood there, now unsure, when Soundwave stepped in. He immediately drew my attention. His frame dripped of energon as he dragged his sword, his steps stable but also lacking his usual grace. I couldn't tell where the wounds were but seeing so much energon on him made my fuel tank twist.

"S-Soundwave…!"

He barely acknowledged me as he came inside and the doors slid shut behind him. Then he deployed his minicons, making me flinch when Rumble, Laserbeak and another bird-like minicon scattered from his side. Rumble limped too and cursed loudly as he went straight towards a cabinet at the side. Laserbeak and his company flew around in circles and didn't seem to be injured in any way.

I gaped at them and the fact that Soundwave had so many minicons on him and I didn't even know. Why was Laserbeak the only one he had in the future? What will happen to the rest?

Laserbeak stopped before me, hovering in the air as he chirped to me.

"Um, hello Laserbeak! Glad to see you fine!" I tried to smile.

"Weird femme," Laserbeak answered and I chuckled, already accustomed to his opinion on me. The other one joined him and regarded me curiously. "And who might you be?"

"Buzzsaw," he replied and I stored that information in my memory before I turned towards Soundwave who was already at his work table with Frenzy and Rumble on top of it. The two minicons were busy cleaning up their deployer and Ravage who was laid out on the table, while the two bickered amongst each other.

"I-I want to help as well," I stepped to Soundwave in hope he wouldn't mind. I was somewhat familiar with his frame and it wouldn't be the first time I scrubbed his back. It would certainly feel nostalgic.

"No," was the answer and I disappointedly lowered my servos, casting my gaze aside.

Right. We weren't that close.

"Do you have any serious injuries? Don't you need a medic?"

"Do not concern yourself with my well-being," Soundwave replied, "Why are you here?"

"I thought I would drop by before I go to work. But I didn't know you had a match today…"

He didn't respond and the minicons quieted down as they listened to our conversation while Frenzy was treating their master's scarred right arm and Rumble made welts along Ravage's leg, closing off the leaking wounds. The cat endured it with only a small hiss of pain.

"Was it a tough opponent?"

"It doesn't matter who it is. Soundwave: always superior."

"How can you be so sure?"

"I'm undefeated and will remain so."

"Everybody has unlucky days sometimes…"

"What are you hinting at, femme?" Soundwave tilted his head my way, his voice a touch threatening now.

"Just that you should take better care of yourself. Please. No one is indestructible."

"Like I said, you don't have to concern yourself with my well-being."

"I don't have to, but I do."

Soundwave pulled his now fixed arm away from his minicon and flexed his digits before turning his leaking shoulder-plate towards Frenzy. The minicon got to work without a single word.

"What is your relationship with the future me?"

Flustered by the question, I lowered my gaze and hesitated.

"Well, um, we are…you are my superior officer and I'm your assistant."

"I know about that. I meant personal relationship."

"We are…friends I guess."

"Friends," he echoed with a mocking undertone.

"We didn't define our relationship!" I explained nervously, "I considered you a friend, but I don't know for sure whether you did the same."

"Probably not."

Feeling like he was mocking me, I gasped.

"You can't know that! You are not the future you!"

"But I know myself. I do not call just anyone my friend."

"So you usually go around comforting just anybody when they feel down?"

Soundwave fell silent, and it looked like I managed to surprise him.

"You cared about me. You came looking for me when I locked myself up in my room to comfort me, and you…" I stopped, realizing that I was about to impart information that should remain between me and future-Soundwave. Although the two were the same, the relationship I had with the two differed. Past-Soundwave doesn't have to know what's going to happen between us. Maybe it's best he doesn't know.

"I cannot imagine why," he replied once he realized I won't continue my sentence.

I shook my head, sighing in resignation and willing to let this topic drop. Back then I always wished he would give me answers and explain his behavior. But now when I could finally ask him and he would talk, he did not have the answers.

"By the way, will you come to one of my performances? I have a suspicion you know my schedule," I changed topics.

"Why do you want me there?"

"I'm curious about your opinion."

Soundwave did not reply and instead turned his attention to Ravage's injuries now that Frenzy finished up with his shoulder.

I did not get a final answer to my invitation so I left the workshop with conflicted feelings. Frenzy carefreely bounced beside me, as if the tension between me and Soundwave wasn't affecting him at all.

We passed by the coliseums and I noticed a large transportation vehicle roll through one of the large entrances. Bots immediately moved out of the way and I caught the stench of death and dried energon, making me put a servo against my mouth.

"W-what's that…?"

"What? Oh, that. That's the hearse. We just call it the Waste-Bin."

The vehicle turned and I got a glimpse of the pile of dead bodies thrown upon each other, lifeless, gray, mangled.

"These are the unlucky contestants," Frenzy continued to explain, unfazed by my mortified expression and trembling legs. "Their still functional spare-parts will be used up, and the rest will be thrown in the smelting pool. Tough life."

While he talked, I saw a brown and gray armored femme speed after the hearse, yelling and crying as she called after it to stop. She transformed and leapt, catching a ledge on the vehicle and I watched in horror as she pulled herself up and feverishly looked over the carcasses. She was calling a name repeatedly. It must have been someone important to her…

A guard bot flew to her side and pushed her away, but she fought back.

"You can't take him! No! Leave me! YOU CAN'T TAKE HIM! HE IS MY CONJUNX! STOP THIS VEHICLE AND GIVE HIM TO ME!"

I stood there, frozen as I watched the scene of her struggle until she was simply knocked off and left behind to sob helplessly as she clawed into the dirty ground.

"Ugh, pathetic," Frenzy sneered.

My spark throbbed painfully. My sense of justice was screaming. How could he say that while watching someone lose her conjunx in the pits then lose his body as well because he was taken away from her to be chopped up and then smelted down?

Tears welled up in my optics as my pedes moved by their own accord, carrying me to the crying femme.

"Hey! Leave her! Missy!" Frenzy called after me but I was already kneeling beside the femme, reaching a servo out.

The femme looked up with tear-stained optics and I fought for steadiness in my voice.

"I'm sorry for your loss. Truly."

"What do you know!" she smacked my servo away in sudden anger, gritting her denta as she rose without my help and clenched her fists.

"But…!"

"Leave me alone, slut!" she snapped at me, then transformed and drove off who knows where.

Hurt by her words but also hurting for the way her optics screamed in agony and fury, I couldn't bring myself to resent her.

Frenzy caught up to me with a huff.

"See? It's not worth the effort!"

"She is hurting. That's why she snapped," I replied, my spark squeezing with unidentified emotions.

"Who cares? Let's go or you'll be late."

Casting my optics down sadly, I followed him in silence.

I already knew what the ending song would be for tonight's show. I had to release these pent up emotions somehow. The more I saw of Kaon the more it felt like I was walking on shattered glass, pricking myself with thorns and bathing in decay.

There was no compassion left in this city. The realization left me with a hollow feeling, but also with a newfound understanding of the Decepticon cause. This is the place Megatron and Soundwave came from. So far I couldn't grasp why they resorted to violence all the time, but now I finally understood.

---

Mixtape greeted me eagerly once we got to the 'Energizer'. Customers were coming in and out as we talked over the details, then I prepared myself for the second show of my life. My duty was to entertain but I wanted to give a little more than that.

Just like yesterday, I started with songs that had good beats and kept the atmosphere lively, but unlike yesterday I wasn't in the best mindset to perform them just as energetically. It lacked my enthusiasm and my audience noticed. They still enjoyed the new unusual songs but not to the extent I'd have liked to. Then my last one came on.

My emotions were in a disarray. I couldn't get them straight, so I stopped trying.

Sighing, I let the first chords play through my recordings.

"~Ashes floating from the fire, arise, silent prayers and whisperings, I hear 'em calling from within~"

The volume of the chatter died down in an instant and people turned their attention towards the stage.

"~When all the heroes fall, the world plays its wicked games, and I am left defenseless, 'cause I know, the sky's gonna say my name~"

There were whispers, but I ignored them with my optics closed.

"~A pennant, waiting for a rescue, I found you, a battle scar, a wild beast in the dark, I come alive at the end of time~"

Raising my voice, I sang the first verse with more strength again, repeating the part 'when all the heroes fall' as I thought of the gladiators who people have been cheering for until they died and their bodies were thrown away without dignity, and their names forgotten.

Lives, which should have weighed more. Sparks and names which should have been remembered.

"~Sky's gonna say my name, when all the heroes fall, sky's gonna say my name, when all the heroes fall - when all the heroes fall~"

My lips trembled as I ended the song. There was silence and I bowed my head before I retreated into the shadows.

All I felt was my own sorrow and the lack of theirs for the fallen.

Frenzy walked me home silently afterwards. Rearview noticed our crestfallen expression but saw it better not to ask so he just played the kind smiling host he was. I wondered why he differed so much from the rest.

"Rearview, how can you…how can you smile so kindly in this place?" I asked bashfully as I held my glass of energon at his table.

"You mean the city? Ah, I see. You've witnessed some of its cruelties, I assume?" the medic sat down beside us and sipped his drink.

I only nodded and Frenzy listened in curious silence as he munched on his energon sweets.

"Just like you, I'm not from here."

I glanced up in surprise.

"Really? Then where are you from?"

"Iacon."

"Why haven't you mentioned this before?" I gaped. It was hard to mentally place him in Iacon when he looked just as worn-down as the rest of the city, but I believed him.

The mech chuckled and cast his optics down while recalling old memories. I couldn't decide whether they were positive or negative memories however because his expression didn't change.

"You didn't ask. There is not much to hide, though. Those who count know who I was before. Like Soundwave."

"Soundwave?"

"Yes. I followed him here when he moved from Iacon to Kaon."

My thoughts halted in confusion. What? Isn't Soundwave originally from Kaon? Rearview must have recognized my dilemma because he continued his explanation with a knowing smile.

"He used to live in Iacon while he was part of the High Council. Then after he quit he moved here. I was part of his personal staff, his medic to be exact. Although I could've lived a lavish life at any other Council member's side, I agreed with Soundwave's sentiments and felt obliged to follow him. Kaon doesn't pay that well though, and Soundwave is not my direct superior anymore, so I live by what I gain. He does visit me on occasion and checks if everything is alright. I guess he wouldn't let me go offline from starvation so I'm counting on him to help me out if something happens. So that's why. I don't have any reason not to smile, and I also have just enough reason to smile. Life isn't that bad, you just have to see the good things in it."

I blinked in amazement, trying to process everything he has said.

"I-I see…so you say Soundwave was part of the High Council? That High Council? The one overseeing Cybertron?"

"Is there another one?" Rearview chuckled.

"I never would've guessed. He is not a mech of words."

"Oh, Soundwave can get pretty vocal when he wants to," Rearview waved a servo and sipped his drink again. "He just realized talk won't get him anywhere with the corrupt Council and he has closed off ever since."

"So that means he is fighting against the Council now?"

"He is not directly opposed to them, but I bet he is willing to turn against them if an opportunity rises. I think they know that too."

"Opportunity?"

"Soundwave is looking for a way to change society from the bottom. It's logical, if changing it from the top is impossible."

"By fighting as a gladiator?"

"It gets him fame and makes him popular. He is also overseeing the spyweb so he has been collecting evidence against the criminal gangs of Kaon. It's just a matter of time until his plans come together."

"Hey, hey, stop entertaining her with Boss' motives and plans! She has not been proven trustworthy yet!" Frenzy interrupted, angrily glaring at Rearview.

"It's not like she can stop him, Frenzy."

"She can't, but whoever sent her could!"

"I thought we were friends, Frenzy," I looked at the minicon in disappointment. Have we not moved on from number zero?

"You think of everybody as a friend, missy! Just because I like ya I'm not your buddy!"

The feeling of loneliness washed over me again. It felt like no matter how much I talk or interact with people here they always remain distant. If I perhaps died tomorrow, would any of them notice?

---

For the next few days I was free, so I wandered mostly around Soundwave's workshop, even when he wasn't there. Frenzy was taken from my side and replaced by Ravage. Soundwave did not explain why but Frenzy made a hint that it's probably due to a mission that requires him and not the cat-like minicon.

So here I was, trying to talk to a cat who didn't want to respond.

"Um, I'm glad I can spend some time with you, Ravage."

No reaction or answer.

"Look, I know you aren't that fond of me but let's call for a ceasefire for the time being. Wouldn't it be better to get along?"

My nagging got to him after a while:

"I do not get friendly with someone who wishes my master would lose a battle."

His voice was gruff, rough, and very cat-like. Just as I expected. I was more happy to get an answer out of him than offended by the accusation.

"It is not my wish!" I argued. "It's just the way things will go. I can't do anything about it."

The cat didn't answer and jogged ahead. I followed him and turned to inspect my environment instead. I've got myself familiar with the south and eastern arenas but I've never wandered to the other two directions. Ravage stopped when he realized that's my intention.

"That place is not for someone like you. Let's turn back."

Happy that he was talking again, I obliged. I chanced a glance over my shoulder out of curiosity, but I almost froze on the spot.

A familiar gray armored, robust figure headed across the square with many other bots surrounding him as he talked. I would recognize him anywhere.

Lord Megatron.

Stunned and shocked, I quickly turned and increased my speed, trying to get as far away from him as possible. I felt like he could notice me anytime and would yell at me for not securing the relic like I was ordered to and that I was running late, making him wait. What kind of punishment would await me?

My mind was screaming and I only stopped when Ravage got in my way and glared at me in confusion, swishing his tail.

"What's wrong with you, femme? I've been calling your name many times!"

I stared at him, mouth agape and spark hammering.

Calm down Mercy, that was past-Megatron. He doesn't know you! He can't possibly recognize you…

Ravage made an impatient grunt and I rubbed my forehead as I made an attempt to recollect my composure.

"I'm fine, I just saw a bot who reminded me of someone I knew…."

Ravage didn't seem to believe me and continued to glare at me suspiciously.

"Let's go," I sighed and continued my way.

Just a day and we'll know if I was telling the truth. Soundwave and Megatron would clash blades in the arena. And the rest is history? I shouldn't have been worried since I knew the results, but now that my trustworthiness was on the line, I was getting nervous.

There is no way history could change its course, right? My intervention and meeting Soundwave did not affect the match in any way, right? Right?

"You seem troubled," Rearview noted once we were back at his house.

"I'm worried about the match."

"Soundwave and Megatronus? Oh, I see. It's probably the match of the season. Two undefeated champions clashing…I wonder who will win."

"Aren't you rooting for Soundwave?"

"I am, but Megatronus is no easy opponent. He is said to be a charismatic bot and a powerful fighter, who has not only brawn but wits too. He isn't at the top of the game by mere chance."

Ravage raised an optic ridge in my way.

"Didn't you say you're sure Soundwave will lose?"

"I'm still sure but knowing it and witnessing it happen are two different things. I do wish he would win because I don't want him to get hurt, but….I guess I'll just have to close my optics and wait till its over."

"Aren't you going to watch it?"

"I have a feeling you would assume I had something to do with his loss if I was there, so no. I'm going to wait here for the results. I do not want to witness it," I shook my head anxiously. "Besides, I can't stand the atmosphere in the arena. I don't want to hear people chant 'kill him' and know they want Soundwave dead…"

"Actually, this will be a match till first blood. The worst Megatronus can do is wound him," Ravage corrected me. "But I accept your reasoning. Rearview shall supervise you until the match is over. We don't want anyone meddling with the fight."

"Will you inform me when its over?"

Ravage regarded me with suspicious optics before he beckoned towards Rearview.

"I'll send him a message."

It seems he didn't deem me worthy of having his comm-number. But I accepted. It's not like I had a choice.

The arena was filled to the brim that day. The fans of both Megatronus and Soundwave fought not only with their voices but with their fists too. The whole place was on fire, everybody talking about the match and making bets.

Rearview's home was close to the pyramid but I didn't expect the noise to reach us there.

"The air is sure tense over there," I looked out of the window towards the streets. My nervousness was hitting the roof although all I did was sit and walk around.

Was it really a good decision to stay? I imagined Megatron and Soundwave going against each other and multiple scenarios ran through my mind. It was a bit surreal, since all I knew about them was that they were good friends and that Soundwave is infinitely loyal to Megatron. Imagining them to even start a fight was a challenge in itself.

"Are you nervous?" Rearview stepped next to me.

Previously I heard him praying in his med-bay as he maintained his tools and equipment. I often caught him quietly praying to the Thirteen while he was working. It was an absent-minded habit of his that I found endearing. At least he was a believer. And he prayed a lot for Soundwave's well-being. Maybe that was the secret behind Soundwave's streak of luck so far.

"A little."

"You look more than a little troubled, dear."

Casting my optics down, I bit my lip.

"I'm afraid something might have changed due to my involvement. I did not intend to stir up the past, but maybe I did."

"Hm. Let's assume Soundwave wins and you have changed the past. Why is that wrong?"

I looked up at him in unease.

"Because he won't believe me then. And whatever future I had might be erased."

"Don't you think that's contradictory?"

"How so?"

"I'm just a medic and not a scientist, but if I go by common sense and logic, whatever happened in the past has already determined the future. This way, you couldn't be here if your future has changed."

I listened to his reasoning and mused over his words until I came to a conclusion:

"So you say whatever I do here has already happened from my future self's perspective?"

"Yes, I do think so."

I didn't quite understand, but I nodded.

Then we both fell silent and stood by the window as we watched cars drive by. Our processors were occupied with thoughts of Soundwave and Megatronus until Rearview's comm-link pinged.

"It's over," Ravage spoke, his voice strained and gruff.

"How did it go?" Rearview inquired and I leaned closer with wide optics, trembling.

There was silence on the other end and I felt like dying if he wouldn't respond.

"She was right," was all he said and I felt my knees go weak.

Soundwave lost. He wasn't unbeaten anymore…. Everything happened as it should've.

Maybe Rearview was right. Then why did my spark squeeze at the thought of Soundwave kneeling beaten in the arena?

I wished I could run to him now. What would I do? I don't know. I just wanted to be there and tell him he did his best and that this is just the start of something much greater. The start of an alliance which will shape the core of the Decepticon movement. He should be proud, even in spite of the loss.

"Is he okay?" I asked but Rearview shook his head.

"Ravage already disconnected. We'll know soon."

The city was in uproar. Everybody was talking about the results and bots were chanting Megatronus' name. He was celebrated as the ultimate champion of the arenas and now I understood why future Megatron was so proud of his achievements.

It was late in the evening when I finally heard sounds from the entrance, and upon peeking my head out I saw Soundwave step in through the door.

"Soundwave!" my face lit up and I ran to his side with a mix of worry and relief. I looked him over, searching for any wounds but all I saw was a welted deep scar running across his chest-plates.

"Are you okay?"

Soundwave looked down at me with an unreadable visor. Realizing that he might be upset, I stepped back in concern.

"You were right."

That's all he said before he deployed Rumble, Frenzy, Laserbeak and Buzzsaw. The minicons ran and flew in all directions, welcoming Rearview who had just arrived from the back.

"Soundwave! I heard the news. It must have been an intense battle," the medic did not offer condolences nor tried to cheer him up. He just smiled like he usually did.

Ravage passed by me with a grumpy expression but said nothing as he lay down under the table. I wondered how I could cheer him up without offending him.

"Megatronus is an exceptional fighter," Soundwave admitted, and his gaze shifted back to me. "You were right about him too. He seems like a promising character."

I smiled happily as I recognized the growing respect in his voice.

"Does this mean you believe me now?"

Soundwave tilted his head slightly.

"I did promise to accept your words as truth, and I do not intend to go back on my word. Although accepting your words and believing them are two different things."

"Oh…I'd thought you would believe me from now on," I cast my gaze down in disappointment.

"I need more proof than just one event to be sure of your intentions."

"Then investigate me all you want! I have nothing to hide, I have no one, I'm alone and I'm willing to aid you with whatever you need. Use me, however you see fit."

Soundwave scoffed and even Rearview couldn't suppress a chuckle.

"You make bold declarations, femme."

"She is crazy in the mind anyways," Frenzy spoke up with a grin and I turned towards him with a pout.

"Frenzy!"

"What? It's true," Rumble joined in.

"Why are you all picking on me!"

The minicons giggled and chirped, but I couldn't bring myself to be angry with them. I liked them even in spite of their difficult natures.

Soundwave silenced them and turned to me again.

"I'll retract direct surveillance of you but keep in mind, I'm watching you."

Does that mean none of his minicons will escort me around anymore?

"Wait, do you mean…"

"You're free to do whatever you want," Soundwave clarified then beckoned towards his minicons who immediately transformed and reattached themselves to his frame, all except Ravage.

Soundwave turned with a nod and left towards the exit. Ravage briefly looked up to me with an unreadable expression before he followed his master and then they were all gone.

Oh. I'd thought I could ask him a lot more about what went down. Was I naively hoping for him to trust me enough now to engage in longer conversations? I think I hoped so.

"He didn't seem that disturbed by his loss," Rearview remarked as he stepped beside me.

"I…I don't know what I expected."

Seeing my disappointed expression, he patted my shoulder and flashed an encouraging smile.

"Chin up, Soundwave always keeps his given word. Make the most of it if you want to get to him."

"Get to him?"

"You always seem to reach out to him. Like you wish to connect with him."

I blushed and cast my gaze down.

"I used to like him."

"Used to?"

"I'm not sure about him now. He is…different."

Rearview raised an optic ridge, but the smile didn't leave his face.

"He must have thought the same of you when he met you in the future, I imagine?"

I blinked in confusion.

What was he hinting at? I felt like I should know.

---

The 'Energizer' was full the next day, and Mixtape happily informed me about my growing popularity.

"We always have the second part of the week packed full but bots come now just to hear you at the start of the week! I'm reconsidering your schedule, darling. We hit the jackpot with you!" he threw an arm around me and pulled me close, much to my discomfort, and grinned as he leaned closer, whispering:

"Don't mind Overflow, she'll be pissed but I don't care! Put on a good show tonight, 'kay sweetspark? The gladiators have been at an uproar ever since the Soundwave-Megatronus match so they need to wind down. Help them out, will ya?"

Not knowing what else to do, I nodded nervously. It felt like each and every time I had to provide more. Will this performance go like the rest before? Would they finally hear me or did they come just to be entertained?

Mixtape sent me on my way with the widest grin I've seen on him yet. I took the stage just like I did before and heard some of my audience cheer upon my arrival. I gratefully smiled in their direction, although all I felt was conflict in my spark. Would they forever remain blind and deaf to the cruelty of this world? Or was I wrong and the reason they came here was because they did notice, and they did feel like a change was coming?

I thought of the match Soundwave and Megatronus had, and the history that will result from it. I did not fully agree with the Decepticon cause but now I could see why it is the way it is. I do loathe all the destruction it has done to our planet, but what if it was necessary? If future-Soundwave could change his fate to change history, would he?

Once I get back, this will surely be one of the many questions I will ask of him.

My audience sure was lively this evening. It must have been the legendary match, or it could be something else in the air I didn't understand but was unconsciously aware of. I danced and sang in my own bubble of existence on the stage and hours ticked by, until I dared sweep a look over the bots gathered and I spotted someone I didn't expect to see.

Soundwave stood with his arms crossed, his back against a wall at the side of the room, alone. He was regarded with curiosity and respect by those who were around him but his attention was solely on the stage.

A chill ran up my spine as I felt his gaze on me. My momentary distraction almost caused me to misstep but I corrected my posture at the last second and continued on with a hammering spark and a mixed feeling of elation and mortification.

Soundwave came! And I didn't know! I'm not mentally prepared!

Bringing my song to a close, I almost decided to end tonight here and flee his all-seeing gaze. But what would he think of me then? I was the one who invited him in the first place. Shouldn't I show him the best of me?

I changed my last song at the last second and mentally pulled up the recording of the instrumental music for it in a hurry as the lights of the stage changed. I gestured to have more light and it immediately got brighter around me. Good. Now let's give it all I've got!

Closing my optics, I lowered my head and let the music start. The piano chords flowed gently and I stood still until I first opened my mouth and began to sing.

"~You are an ocean of waves,

Weaving a dream

Like thoughts become a river stream,

Yet may the tide ever change,

Flowing like time

To the path, yours to climb.

Thou seek the light,

With an outstretched hand.

A divine blade lies before you

So command the wake of dreams

To restore the world, cut 'way the seams~"

I swayed smoothly, moving my arms and servos like gently flowing water, which was, originally, the main theme of this song, one of my favorites. I loved it, and I thought I might be able to convey something more with it.

"~Join in our prayer, in our song

Of birthrights and love.

Come the sun, illuminate the sky.

Pray that we may quell the dark,

Light take the throne.

Lost in thoughts, all alone~"

I opened my arms, gesturing towards the audience like an invitation, then weaved my servos and turned, swirled, until I came to a halt and the music changed, the lighthearted piano chords slowly replaced by a darkening melody. A cautious tone continued on.

"~Thou seek the dark

With an unsheathed blade

Now a white ivory throne beckons

So obtain the fate you sow

On this path, be weary friend and foe~"

My movements were less smooth now, more dynamic, more frantic. My voice took on an edge that wasn't there before. The song's theme reversed like a mirror that suddenly cracked.

"~Join in the tale, in the blight

Of conquest and lies!

Come the sun, to tarnish in the sky!

Vow that we shall tear the light

Dark seize the throne!

Lost in thoughts, all alone~"

Then suddenly it was all smooth and wavy once again, my voice softening only a fraction and I slowed the pace as if trying to find a balance between the two themes of the song.

"~May thy chosen path

lead way and grace you with virtue.

But surely a balance awaits

So be it bliss or pain you gain.

Beyond the route-way's end

You'll gain resilience and weakness.

The trials, the thorn in your side

Becomes the greatest strength in you~"

I reached out, then pulled my servo back and slid my pedes, moving along to the flow of music which followed on without lyrics. Then I repeated the first line gently, like a farewell at the end of a letter, or a last droplet falling into the water and creating small ripples in its wake:

"~You are an ocean of waves~"

It was over and there was momentary silence before the usual noise of the audience came back. I bowed my head like I usually did and burned under the intensity of Soundwave's gaze. I couldn't ignore it like I did the rest.

My pedes carried me down from the stage and I barely heard Mixtape's monologue as I nodded absently in his direction but turned away immediately as soon as I spotted Soundwave among the crowd once again.

No matter our differences, he always attracted me like a magnet. His presence demanded attention even though he did nothing to actively gain it.

Before I could reach him though, I was stopped by a large mech who grinned down at me with a satisfied expression.

"Why, hello gorgeous! Nice performance once again!"

"Um, thank you but I…" I tried to walk around him with a sheepish smile but was stopped by another one immediately.

"What's your name, sweetspark? I never heard anyone sing like you before."

"M-I mean Lightswitch. Nice to meet you all but I have to hurry!" I slipped past them nervously and was called out by more bots on my way until I finally got to Soundwave and relief washed over me.

"Soundwave! I didn't know you were going to be here!" I greeted him with an honest smile and he only acknowledged me with a nod before he looked over the other bots in our vicinity.

The ones who tried to get close to me before watched on with peculiar interest as I left the place accompanied by Soundwave and I was grateful for his presence because no one dared to approach me afterwards.

"You surprised me…but I'm glad you came," I continued as we left the bar and headed down the street in the dark fog of the polluted air.

"You told me I should."

"Yes, and you are welcome to come anytime. I will probably sing on more days now that I seem to be getting popular."

"You sing unusual songs."

"Yes, they are from the planet I told you about, Earth."

"Peculiar."

"Right?" I chuckled, "So how did you find them? How much did you see?"

Soundwave tilted his head in thought and waited a few moments before he answered:

"The last one I liked."

"Really?" I beamed. I picked that song for him, so him liking it was the best thing he could say about it. "I'm happy you said so! I'll keep it in my mind. My last songs are always meaningful."

"Why?"

"Entertaining the audience is one thing, but I want to do more than that. I wish bots would go home with more than what they'd come to this place."

"More?"

"Encouragement, hope, compassion, grief, anything. Ever since I came to Kaon all I have met was indifference. I wish to shake them up. Make them think. Or at least feel something."

Soundwave said nothing as we walked a few minutes in silence.

"Is this a part of your atonement for your previous ignorance?" he asked after a while.

"I guess you could say so," I nodded with a sad smile.

"Fitting," was all he replied, then we didn't say another word till we got back to Rearview's, where Soundwave parted with a nod and I waved after him with a small smile.

He came. And I didn't know how to feel about it. My spark was soaring. But my processor warned me not to be happy yet. With Soundwave, it was always more complicated than I first assumed.

---

It became a habit of mine to visit him in his workshop and he didn't seem to mind that much anymore. Ravage stopped growling at me but he always jogged over and scanned me when I arrived. He took his guarding duty very seriously.

Frenzy often visited me in the 'Energizer' and became one of the regular customers. Rumble was however reluctant to come and even after that one time he came he only said 'weird' and left it at that.

I warmed up to Laserbeak and Buzzsaw more quickly. They liked picking around in Soundwave's storage when they weren't on surveillance duty. I found them adorable but I never told them because I knew they would get offended.

It came as a surprise, but Soundwave had many more minicons in his service. He was bonded with only the main five I got to know and whom he regularly carried around, but he had hundreds of others reporting to him from all across Kaon and beyond. I began to grasp now how he ruled the spyweb on Cybertron.

Sometimes other gladiators came to visit. They introduced themselves as Soundwave's comrades who served under the same sponsor. I tried to be friendly with them and not anger any of them because they were twice my size if not more. When Soundwave noticed that they began pestering me, he interrupted.

"Aw, don't be like that Soundwave! Let me talk to her!" one of them said, a large red and black one with a face full of scars.

"If that's why you came, then you can leave," Soundwave dismissed him with an annoyed huff.

"Okay, fine, then tell me which brothel you've hired her from! She looks like a work of art."

I was about to speak up and tell him that I wasn't a prostitute but Soundwave was quicker to get into his scarred face. The other mech gaped dumbly at the faceless visor, his optics crossing as he found himself facing his own reflection.

"You touch her and you are dead. Get out," he threatened in a low voice, forcing the other mech to retreat.

"Hey, hey, no need to get upset! I get it. Dear Primus, you don't have to be so jumpy!"

Soundwave told me to stop talking to strangers coming to the workshop from then on. I followed his advice without reluctance.

Other days, he had more important visitors. Like Megatron for example. The first time I caught sight of him I fled like a scared animal. And his visits got more frequent as the days passed and contrary to what I had believed before, Megatron could talk for quite a long while. So I stayed away when he was there, too scared to meet him face to face.

Of course, I was curious about what was said during such long hours, but I found it best not to show myself in front of Megatron. Whatever confidence I've gained these last weeks would just go straight to waste under the weight of a single glance of his crimson optics.

I did not understand why Soundwave resonated so well with him, but I respected his choices so I let them be.

This new development between them reduced my time with Soundwave, but I did spot him a few times during my performances. It always made my spark jump. I just wished he wouldn't disappear as soon as I ended my last song.

My payment fully went to Rearview's account and his mood improved over the days after that, even when he had no patients to take care of on certain days. We philosophized a lot in our spare time and I felt like we were forming a friendship in spite of our wacky start.

The 'Energizer' got more popular as a bar because of me and Mixtape was willing to minimize Overflow's performances to have me on stage instead. When I spoke up about it, feeling like it wasn't wholly justified, he chided me and Overflow got even more cross with me. The last time I wanted to talk to her she dumped her glass of energon on me. It hurt and upset me that we can't talk it out. But Highnote and Twist told me they would talk to her so I hoped she would listen to them.

Mixtape didn't seem to hear my complaints though.

"It is not fair, Sir! Please arrange our schedules equally!" I tried for the hundredth time, but this time he snapped at me instead of dismissing me:

"Listen here darling, this is the last time I tell you! I do not care about her! You bring more money to this bar so you go on stage! I do not care if she quits out of spite, the singer I want is you!"

There was no way to convince him otherwise and the whole situation made me feel bad. I did not want to get on either Mixtape's or Overflow's bad side but they made it very hard not to.

Then other problems arose which became more important. Restlessness was growing in the city, unlike how it was before. Bots were whispering of change in the shadows and sometimes I caught conversations of some wishing for rights they didn't have. The most often repeated name was Megatronus. He was planting new ideas in the heads of many and starting from the gladiators of the pits to the upper worker class, bots were gathering and talking about things they have never before.

It was all in the air. In the atmosphere of my audience, in the darkness of the night and in the dull glow of the mornings. Kaon was silently changing, transforming, and I wasn't any less aware of it than anyone else.

"You seem to be in a good mood," I noted one day when I was alone with Soundwave in his workshop as he maintained his gladiator weaponry.

"Megatronus promised to come over this evening."

"Are you two friends now?"

"Allies," he corrected.

I couldn't help a smile.

"I told you that you'll like him."

"His words are just as sharp as his blade. He moves his audience like no other. He is a great leader-material. And I share his sentiments."

It seemed like he was absolutely captivated by Megatron. Maybe this growing admiration was the reason he stayed loyal for so long.

"He does inspire awe," I admitted reluctantly.

"Don't you agree with him?" Soundwave tilted his head in my direction and I rubbed my arm uneasily.

"It's complicated. I do agree that the system has to change no matter what. But I also wish there was no need for violence."

"Violence is inevitable. It is encoded in us from the day we are sparked."

"Why do you believe so?"

"Someone like you who was created by a bond cannot imagine the challenges one has to go through to survive the Underworld while climbing to the surface from the Well of the Allspark. It's the ultimate law of the universe: the strong survive, the weak perish. That is the way of our nature. And it should stay that way."

"Wouldn't it be a welcome change to have a new era built on peace and diplomacy?"

"Diplomacy brings more rust than change. The Golden Age is a testament to that. If you want to achieve something you've never had before, you have to do something you've never done before. The civil war you prophesy of might be the only way."

It seemed like he was resolute in his opinion so I did not press the matter and although I saw reason in his words, I did not fully agree. There has to be a better way….

"Many will die in this civil war. Some pointlessly. It makes me wonder if it's worth all the deaths."

"You either go offline as a slave or die free. I see no better reason to die, than for your own freedom."

I wondered why he was so sure. The future does not prove him well. Cybertron will be devastated, and our kind will scatter across the universe, fighting a never ending war.

Is such a revolution worth fighting for?

"You seem greatly disturbed by the thought of violence. You're the first person I 've met who thinks like that."

"I always think of other solutions."

"Such as?"

"Like uniting opposing sides, creating compromises and forgiving each other."

Soundwave scoffed.

"You are too naive and generous for your own good. The world does not think like that."

"Then maybe it's the world who is in the wrong."

Soundwave shook his head with a sigh. It seems like we didn't seem optic to optic on this matter.

"Only those choose not to fight who hold nothing dear," he proclaimed, and I was momentarily taken aback by his words.

This sentence continued to echo in my mind long after we parted that day and I went to work. It tilted my thoughts out of balance.

Is there a kind of violence that is meant to achieve peace? Could something so contradictory exist?

I sang of battlefields and change for a better world that night. And Soundwave was there.

---

A week later I witnessed a miracle. There was a street fight near the arenas. Some of the low-caste factory workers dared turn on their superiors, demanding better treatment but got struck by them instead and it turned into an ugly fight. It spread out to the streets and I had to find a cover in order to save my spark.

I know Halo would have jumped into the fray because of her sense of justice, and even though my own sense of justice was crying out as well, I did not have the courage. So I just watched on in distress until I noticed some rogue gladiators pull up to the scene and fend off the mechs trying to punish the factory workers.

It was the first act of compassion I've witnessed. And it was violent. Blades were clashing, energon spilled and heads were flying, but the battle cries of the gladiators resonated deeply with my spark as they formed a circle around the beaten mechs, shielding them from further assault.

Mechs who previously fought each other in the arenas now united to protect bots weaker than themselves. They couldn't have ulterior motives. Why would they risk themselves?

I watched on with wide optics, drinking in the sight, enchanted and paralyzed until the offenders were offlined and the factory workers were helped up.

The scene left after the battle made my fuel tank twist and my spark hammer, but I found myself looking past it, realizing something I have never before. It was a gruesome sight and still there was beauty in it. The contradiction made my head dizzy yet I stood resolute.

That night I sang of unity and brothers-in-arms fighting together. This was the first time my audience gave me a loud cheer afterwards. I felt elated at the sight before me. Optics were shimmering, there was hope and a newfound fire in the air.

Something changed in the city, and I let myself be swayed by its current. Maybe Soundwave was right. I began to understand what he spoke of earlier.

"Heyy, missy!" Frenzy greeted me in Soundwave's workshop as I entered another day. "I like your new songs! They are absolute bangers!"

"Thank you!" I grinned as I made my way in. Ravage scanned me like he always did, then nodded to me as he jogged away.

Soundwave was working beside his computers but turned to me fully when I walked over to him.

"You've taken on a pattern in your recent songs," he remarked.

He was always up to date with everything. I wasn't even surprised.

"Yes. I got inspired!"

Soundwave tilted his head questioningly.

"I thought a lot of what we had talked about and then I witnessed a street fight that changed my perception on things," I admitted bashfully, casting my gaze away.

Soundwave nodded in understanding but didn't ask more.

"I'm on my way to Megatronus. Would you like to come? I think listening to him would prove to be further enlightening to you."

Hearing such a suggestion, I stepped back and shook my head.

"Oh, no, no thank you! I do not wish to face him yet."

"It's come to my attention that you evade him. Why? He is your lord in the future is he not?"

"He is one intimidating superior. Most of the time I just cower in his shadow. He is….hard to please."

Soundwave didn't seem to understand but did not force the matter.

"But I can accompany you halfway?" I offered with a small smile and he nodded silently.

So we left the workshop without any minicons escorting him this time.

"Why can't they come?" I inquired curiously.

"Megatronus does not trust minicons yet. He doesn't like them so I never take them when I visit him."

"But why? What's wrong with minicons?"

Soundwave tilted his head in my direction in a puzzled manner.

"Sometimes I wonder why you lack common knowledge. Minicons are considered untrustworthy because they are mostly utilized by spies for surveillance."

"Oh!"

I never noticed that before. I did witness bots treating minicons differently - like that time with Frenzy at the several bars we visited - but I never understood why. Now I did.

"That's unjustified. Even if they are used by spies, they are just like anybot else. Sometimes I do wish I had one. I would appreciate the company."

Soundwave kept his thoughts to himself as we walked on. He spoke up absent-mindedly after a while:

"It would be good if you two could meet up. Megatronus and you."

"W-why?"

"You two have a way with words. He is skilled in poetry. His verses speak to the spark. I think a lyricist like you would surely appreciate his work."

Was he comparing me to Megatron now? I gaped at him, flattered but also terrified at the same time.

"I could…exchange verses with him," I tried, unsure and uneasy. I did not want to build any kind of relationship with Megatron. His very existence unsettled me to the core.

"I will convey your compliance to him," Soundwave sounded satisfied.

Was that really what I wanted? I do remember future-Soundwave showing me one of Megatron's poems written in ancient-Cybertronian at the start of my job next to him. It was a powerful piece. I couldn't deny the curiosity crawling in my processor but I also didn't want to take risky steps.

Getting closer to Megatron was risky enough in itself.

What are you doing Mercy?

---

I noticed an unusual bot in my audience one night. He was unlike any I've seen so far in Kaon. He looked like a high-caste bot. A jet with dark blue wings, arms and a circular cockpit on his chest. The rest of him was soft purple, so light it could be mistaken as pink. His face was framed by sharp golden plates and the end of his talons were painted gold as well. His crimson optics beamed of arrogance and superiority. He was flanked by large, intimidating body-guards, two grounders and two airbornes.

Him and his company occupied one of the whole corners of the spacious inner room of the bar.

There was something in his optics, in the way he watched my performance, that unnerved me. I couldn't ignore it. Because of this I felt like today's show wasn't as powerful as the last ones were. It lacked my usual unwavering confidence on stage.

When I finished up and was ready to go get my share of energon, I was stopped by one of his body-guards. Fumbling for words, I looked towards Mixtape in a silent cry for help but he slipped away with a nervous expression and acted as if he didn't even notice the unusual customers.

"Our boss would like a word with you, Lightswitch. Please follow us."

The body-guard led me away and I shrank in fear as I was escorted out. Should I just run? Or fly off? My wings have recovered completely, flight wouldn't be a problem anymore.

The unusual mech waited outside with his lackeys at his side. He flashed a friendly smirk and waved in my way as if we were old friends who haven't seen each other in a while. This behavior only unsettled me further. What did he want from me?

"Lightswitch, the angel of Kaon, yes?" the mech asked, his voice smooth and velvety.

My fuel tank twisted.

"The what?" I blinked in confusion. "I-I am Lightswitch, but…."

"Are you surprised? Strange, considering how every low-caste bot seems to be chanting your name. They call you the 'angel of Kaon'. But are you?"

I was shoved in front of him and I felt so small in spite of standing at one height with him.

He was tiny compared to his body-guards and slim compared to mech standards. Yet he radiated a menacing aura that demanded attention.

"Um, I think they exaggerate a bit," I laughed nervously.

"Sure they are. I think what they mean is you have the figure of a goddess, but your singing….ah, it really grates my audio-receptors," his expression darkened as he rubbed his golden talons together and glared at me.

I wanted to back away but bumped into solid chests from behind. I felt suffocated. I was surrounded and with no way out.

"I see you don't understand," the mech leaned closer and raised an optic ridge to emphasize, "I want you to stop riling up my gladiators. I do not care if you sing about love and all that other cheesy stuff you usually sing about, but you have to quit encouraging bots to turn against their superiors."

I stared at him with wide optics, frozen.

"I-I…I didn't."

"Oh, you did! You did, you naughty little thing! So do yourself a favor and stop your little agenda, will you? Or, in case you don't, I expect you are intelligent enough to figure out what I'm gonna do next."

My spark was hammering in its chamber, threatening to burst out. My servos trembled as I held them up in surrender. His burning optics bore holes into mine as he narrowed them.

"Well, are we clear?"

I just stood there, frozen, unable to mutter a word, let alone give a coherent answer.

"Are we?!" the mech raised his voice impatiently and the guards behind him smashed their gargantuan fists together.

I only managed a terrified nod.

"Good!" the mech perked up, his happy smile returning as he snapped his digits. "We are done here! Let's go and leave this Primus-forsaken district! It's so filthy!"

The guards moved immediately and the mech turned with a spin, happily starting in the opposite direction. He called back to me over his shoulder as he left but I barely heard it because my processor was nothing but static noise:

"Have a nice evening, Mercy!"

The world was turning and twisting around me. I felt like I was losing my footing. My knees weakened. I would have fallen if a servo didn't grab my arm and yanked me up.

"What did he want?! Lightswitch! Answer me! What did Leto want?!"

I recognized the voice as Mixtape's. Did he come out of the bar just to ask me this? Who was this mech who just left?

"Who-who is he?" I mumbled, still dizzy and wobbly on my pedes.

"He is a gang leader! Someone who can deal serious damage to my business! So tell me why he came! Now!" Mixtape shook me by the shoulders frantically.

I fought to find my voice. My thoughts were scattered like marbles on the floor.

"He told me….he told me not to encourage his gladiators…"

Mixtape's optic ridges drew together and he let go of me, cursing as he walked up and down.

"Slag, slag, he is onto us!"

I watched him, optics still wide and body trembling, until he turned and snapped at me:

"No more of those songs! I forbid them, got it?! No more suspicious agenda! The show must be harmless fun from now on! And I don't care what you think! I'm your boss and you do as I say, sweetspark!"

I could only lower my head and close my optics in shame. It was unfair. It was terrifying. I wanted to get home. As soon as possible. I wanted to curl up in a safe corner and cry my spark out.

I wanted…I wanted Soundwave with me.

Turning sharply, I ran. Mixtape called after me but I just disappeared on the next corner and collapsed at the foot of a building behind a container so that no one could see me. Pulling my knees to my chest, I fought the urge to cry and hyperventilate.

If Crossflare was here, she would hug me and tell me not to let fear overtake me. Halo would probably say she is going to get revenge on that mech and then say something funny to cheer me up.

I missed them. My amicas. My sisters in arms. My greatest supports.

But they weren't here. There was no one to protect me. I was alone, holding onto thin lifelines, desperately reaching for help.

I raised one shaking servo to my comm-link and made a call. I did not dare call Soundwave. But I had Frenzy's comm-number.

"Missy? What's up? Is your show over? How did it go?"

"Frenzy," I breathed, voice hitching. I was close to bursting into tears. So pathetic and helpless.

"W-what? Hey, are you okay? What happened?" his tone changed as he realized something was amiss.

"I need someone to escort me home…I can't….I'm afraid….Please come to the bar! I need someone to get me back to Rearview's!"

"What happened? Did someone hurt you?"

"N-no…I just…some high-caste bot threatened me and I…please Frenzy just come here!"

"Just a sec! Stay there!" he assured me, and it somehow soothed my nerves.

I lowered my servo and sat there, alone in the dark, curled against the wall as if wishing to disappear.

The angel of Kaon? What a joke. I'm nothing more than a weak coward trembling at the sight of danger. I may sing nice songs but nothing I do holds real weight. Is that all I am?

A tear spilled over and drew a line on my cheek. I wiped it off. Then I sat and waited for who knows how long until I heard pedes approaching. They weren't light minicon-steps.

Was I discovered? I tensed instinctively and stilled, praying to be left alone.

Then a familiar figure stepped into my line of sight and I flinched at first, then upon realizing who it was, I scrambled to my pedes and ran to him.

"Soundwave!" in my moment of immense relief I ran against his torso and hugged him tightly without thinking about how he might react.

Safe. I was safe. That's all I was thinking about.

"What happened?" Soundwave looked down at me, unmoving. His tone was demanding.

"There was a high-caste bot in the audience tonight," I hiccupped against his chassis, still shaking. "He threatened me! He said I shouldn't rile up his gladiators. I didn't know what to do! He had body-guards. They were huge! I just couldn't do anything! And he…he knows my name! My real name! I don't know how he learned of it…! Has he been watching me this whole time? What should I do now? Oh, Solus, I didn't want this…."

Soundwave put his servos on my shoulders and pushed me slightly away in order to look me in the optic with a serious aura.

"Did he tell you his designation?"

"N-no, but Mixtape called him 'Leto'?" I wiped my face helplessly. It was a mess.

"Leto," he repeated. There was venom and contempt in his voice.

Did he know the mech?

Soundwave took a look around then beckoned with his head and I followed him without hesitation, glad that he was willing to escort me back home.

It reminded me of our inside tours in the Nemesis. He would walk around with me until we had to part ways. We would go together to the mess hall and although he would leave, he always picked me up after I finished with my break. He would escort me back to my room after our shared shower sessions too. It was a sign of his care, as far as I knew.

I drew close to him, which he noticed.

"Do you know this Leto? Is he dangerous?"

Soundwave stopped and turned towards me. I felt like he was about to say something important.

"Leto is one of the most wealthy criminals of Kaon. Many of the bot-traders answer to him. He has a widespread web of contacts across the black market."

My optics widened and I gasped, spark picking up a quicker rate as I realized what that meant.

"He also sponsors many gladiators - myself one of them - and profits from the arena-fights."

"What?"

"I've been collecting evidence of his shady business ever since I signed up. But it's not that easy to topple the whole criminal gang supporting him."

"If he is such a powerful bot, then why would he care about a simple singer from a low-caste bar?"

I didn't understand. It didn't make sense to me.

"Your songs plant rebellious thoughts in processors. The more bots chant your lyrics on the streets the greater their impact. Seeing this, Leto must have located the source of distress among his gladiators and now wishes to eliminate the threat. Namely, you," Soundwave explained, pointing at me.

I stared up at him with wide optics.

"Me? B-but I'm not that influential! I could never…!"

"You already did. I've been monitoring your performances. Your songs speak to the spark, just like Megatronus' poems. They inspire action."

Warmth spread in my spark as he said that. It felt like a confession. He did like my songs!

Seeing the change in my expression, he tilted his head.

"Isn't this the change you've wanted?"

"I did not expect to make such an impact….I can't even fathom how…All I do is simply sing."

"I'd also underestimated the influence of art before I got to know you two. I won't make that mistake again. Your contribution to the unfolding changes in our society is acknowledged. Keep it up."

"Do you mean…?"

"It would be beneficial if you continued on without restraint."

"But Leto just threatened me!"

"Do you quit singing altogether then?"

"N-no…"

Soundwave crossed his arms.

"I'll monitor you with more vigilance. Should you encounter him again, I'll know about it."

I glanced up at him with grateful, shimmering optics. My fear didn't dissipate but I gathered courage from his words.

"Thank you, Soundwave."

"You are grateful I ask you to place yourself in danger?"

"No. I'm grateful you promise to be there when I'm in danger."

Soundwave shook his head with a sigh. Then he escorted me back to Rearview's in silence.

---

Everybody in the staff room knew of the incident from yesterday. Highnote said nothing, only pursed his lips. Twist was unusually silent and fidgety. Overflow was the one who came up to me with a taunting smirk.

"See? You wanted to reach for the stars and got struck down right away. Angel of Kaon? My aft! You're just a whore, needy for attention!"

I cast my gaze down, fists shaking.

Rearview tried to persuade me yesterday. He told me not to visit the bar for a few days and explain myself later. Hearing of Leto's name upset him so much he reconsidered letting me stay, saying I was placing him in danger too.

Should I just quit singing and stick to my original plan? Returning to Iacon? A plan which I've been abandoning for a while…

Soundwave said I should keep it up. He said I was inspiring bots. That's what I wanted, what an artist like me could ever wish for.

Should I give it up for my and Rearview's safety? Whatever happens here is not my business anyway….So do I go back to being ignorant?

Overflow continued on with her slicing sharp words until I couldn't take it any longer. It was unfair. I pursed my lips and left the staff room with frantic steps towards the stage.

The bots who noticed my arrival cheered happily at my sight. I gathered courage from their voices.

My songs inspire. That's what Soundwave said.

Some bots whistled and some yelled, asking for some of the popular songs of mine which I often sang for them if requested.

But today I felt like I couldn't sing any of those if I can't lift this weight off my chest. I needed to get my frustrations out. I needed to anchor myself. Whatever little courage I gathered, I needed to use it all up right now or else I'm losing it in a few minutes.

So I stormed up on stage and drew all the lights on me. The audience noticed that today was different somehow. I was rarely this serious and frantic on stage.

"Thank you all for coming today," I started, which was unusual because I've never addressed my audience before. It wasn't a custom. The bots gathered and engaged in each other's company, now quieted down and turned towards me curiously. "This might as well be my last performance, so I'll make it count. Ready?"

There was a surprise murmur washing over the audience, then the stage was filled with deep red and I raised an arm, taking a deep intake.

Now or never, Mercy!

"~Come wind and come waves! I am not afraid! Come fire, come rain! I am unstoppable, I am unstoppable!~"

It was a sudden and dynamic start. It riled up the spectators immediately.

"~I, I didn't come to lose tonight. I, I won't let nobody change my mind! I am a river running wild, no mercy! I am unstoppable!~"

My movements were quick, decisive, jagged. Very unlike my usual smooth and graceful self.

"~I, cannot be contained, cannot be held. I, I am an army by myself. I am a titan, I will leave my legacy! I am unstoppable!~"

When I cycled back to the main verse I heard new voices joining in. The audience sang with me. It struck me like an electric shock. It emboldened me. I kept turning and dancing, voice firm and steady, even though I knew the danger I was facing.

Soundwave said he will watch over. I trust him to have my back if things turn south, but I don't want to think about those complications yet.

I let the music lead me. Whatever else was out there could wait.

"~Come wind and come waves! I am not afraid! Come fire, come rain! I am unstoppable, I am unstoppable! Oh-oooooh, I am unstoppable!~"

I stopped abruptly as the music ended with a sudden halt. The room erupted in cheer. Bots yelled for me to sing it once more. In the middle of it I saw Mixtape appear at the side, furiously gesturing for me to get down.

I bowed my head and retreated quickly in spite of the requests and demands. Whatever my boss had in store for me couldn't be good.

"What was that?! Were I not clear yesterday?!" Mixtape whisper-yelled at me as he grabbed my arm and dragged me back to the staff room. Overflow sat in there with a smug face, clearly enjoying the show.

"You! I want you out there in two nanoclicks! Move your aft!" Mixtape pointed at her, then towards the door aggressively. He was furious.

Overflow jumped to her pedes and eagerly jogged out there to go on stage and fix what I allegedly messed up. I cast my optics down.

As soon as she was out, Mixtape yelled my head off. He kept throwing questions at me but refused to give me any time to answer. It was unfair. All of it.

"The only reason I haven't fired you yet is that the masses love you! If it weren't for that, I would have kicked your nice aft out! Slag, Lightswitch, are you completely mad?! You put me and my business in danger! Are you doing this on purpose?! What is your agenda, huh?!"

The questions kept coming and it felt like he would never stop. Would his anger never die?

Then we heard heavy steps stomping in our direction from the outside. That made Mixtape stop and look up in unease.

"Who on Cybertron could that be…?"

Whoever it was, they didn't knock. They kicked the door in and I backed off in fright at the familiar sight. It was one of Leto's lackeys.

I did not expect them to be so quick!

"Sorry for the interruption, we have an appointment with Lightswitch over there!" the enormous mech with fists double the size of my head grinned innocently as if him coming in here was the most natural thing in the world.

"Or should I call you Mercy, sweetspark?"

Mixtape exclaimed in fright and I glanced over to the back-door in panic. If I want to get out of here alive, that's my only chance! I lunged for it without a second thought. Mixtape's incomprehensible yelling and scrambling got me a nanoclick of advantage.

"Oh no you don't!" I still heard the large mech say but I was already out in the narrow and dirty alleyway behind the bar. Stumbling in the dark, I made a beeline towards the exit to the street. Once I'm out there I will transform and fly away. Straight to Soundwave's workshop. Let's hope he is there!

But once I leapt into the open, I was surrounded.

Leto's lackeys grinned in delight. It was an obvious trap. And I walked right into it. Scrap!

"You make our work easy, gorgeous!"

"What a nice frame, I'm almost sad she is gonna die."

"Shut up, let's just get the job done."

"Can't I have a little fun before we finish her? I'm gonna miss that face."

Catching my gaze from one to the other, I realized that there was no way out. Five of them against me. It's hopeless. My knees went weak and my spark hammered so loudly I was sure all of them could hear.

No. It can't be like this! I can't die in the past! Or is this it? The end of the journey? Will I never see my friends?

Tears welled up in my optics and a desperate plea left my mouth, pathetic and weak:

"Please…I beg you…don't do this!"

"Aww, isn't she cute!" one of the mechs, the black one cooed mockingly. "Please guys let me taste her just a little bit. I promise to be quick!"

Horrified, I backed away from him, but aside from one mech all the others laughed in mirth to his words. It sickened me to the core.

The laughter died down suddenly when a smaller dark figure jumped onto one of them and sliced their throat, then shot another who was about to yell at his comrade. It was quick work, a shot in the optic which made the victim fall to his knees with a painful cry.

"Aarrgh, my optic! My optic!" the mech howled while the others transformed their arms into blasters and aimed at the small bot attacking them.

More precisely, a minicon in the shape of a cat. Ravage!

"Get out of here!" the cat yelled at me, snapping me out of my frozen shock.

I looked for an opening immediately and found one, ducking under the servos trying to catch me as I ran from the scene. The spectators on the street only looked on from a safe distance, debating whether to intervene. Of course they didn't.

It still upset me how little compassion they had for those wrongfully attacked. Maybe there was a change happening in the city, but there were still bots uncaring out there.

Ravage caught up to me in no time, flashing a red optic at me as we ran side by side, down the street, then turned a corner.

"Are you hurt?"

His question baffled me.

"N-no."

"Good."

"Thank you for the save."

"You are braver than I've given you credit for," the cat admitted, then looked over his shoulder and fired with the end of his tail which reminded me a lot of Soundwave's tentacles.

Two mechs were catching up to us in grounder vehicle mode.

"Listen, Laserbeak will arrive at any moment. He will escort you to safety. Now transform and…!" he couldn't finish because a shot ran through the air, aimed from above us and caught him in the leg. It made him stumble and roll away with a painful crash against a street lamp.

"Ravage!" I screamed and skidded to a halt, changing direction and ducking after him. I just got to his side when the aerial bot slammed into the ground next to us, grinning widely at our sight.

"Oh sorry, my bad! I should've shot you but my aim is no good when such a pretty femme dances before my optics!"

"Get away from us!" I cried threateningly, much to his amusement.

Ravage growled and rose to his full height in spite of an injured leg, ready to attack.

"Scram, if you know what's good for you!"

"I'm not talking to minicons," the mech taunted and shot again, but this time the cat was faster and jumped out of the way. I yelled and scrambled away as Ravage charged against my attacker without a hint of hesitation or fear. His courage stunned me. He was so much smaller in size, but his agility and speed made up for anything he lacked compared to the larger mech.

"Go!"

He didn't have to tell me twice, I scrambled to my pedes and ran. The two grounders caught up with us the moment I turned away and I looked over my shoulder with a heavy spark, watching Ravage fight alone.

Three of them against him. So unfair. I cannot just leave like this!

Transforming my arms into blasters, I stopped and turned, aiming. Two shots. They didn't hit anything but the ground and containers, but I managed to make the three attackers scatter as they tried to leap away from the supposed attack.

Ravage noted my interruption with an angry glare and a growl, but I knew he was at least a tiny bit grateful. He made quick work of one bot and I turned to transform with a smile, knowing that I've gained him advantage.

What I did not expect was an electric shock to the chest.

"You're gonna pay for my optic, femme!" was all I heard before I blacked out, screaming from high voltage.

---

The next time I awoke I was lying flat, face-down against the floor in a storehouse. Containers and machinery blocked my view. They towered over me eerily in the semi-darkness.

I groaned in pain.

My servos were cuffed behind my back and my whole frame ached. It felt like somewhere on one of my knee-guards I had a leaking wound. One of my wings and an arm was dented. Was I grabbed by force?

I barely finished assessing my condition when my processor realized that there was a fight ongoing somewhere between the aisles of containers.

I heard Ravage's growls and Laserbeak's furious chirps. The other one was a heavy mech with a deep taunting voice. I recognized him, the one who was telling perverted comments when I was cornered.

"How did you find us so fast? Slag, I'm gonna step on you once I catch you vermin!" the mech roared and booming sounds shook the whole place.

I struggled against the cuffs and my expression distorted as I felt a cut on my lips. It seems like I suffered more damage than I'd first thought. Looking around and then back over my frame, I noticed dark scrapes. They were all around the walls, the floor, and me. Dark lines trailed down over my chassis.

The sight made my fuel tank twist. By Solus…what did they do to me…?

My spark missed a pulse.

Solus, no. My processor started screaming in alarm and I felt a panic attack coming as my whole body shook. Was I…? Did they….? Who touched me?! Please, no….Oh, Solus, no! Was I….?!

My thoughts were spiraling out of control and my cooling fans kicked in loudly, signing an overheat. I shook and cried silently, choking on questions and what ifs while there was a fight going on in the background, somewhere.

Crossflare! Halo! I wish you were here with me now…

There was a loud crash and something breaking, shattering and then I heard Laserbeak coming.

"Found her!" he chirped and flew over to me, coming to land on my shoulder. "Hey, Boss's here! No worries!"

I cried even louder, much to his surprise and confusion.

"Thank Primus! Thank you for coming! Thank you…!"

I heard frantic steps and soon a tall figure emerged from behind the many containers blocking our view. Ravage was right behind him as he arrived.

Soundwave halted at my sight and my voice hitched when I looked up to him.

I wished the floor would swallow me. My relief over him being there was drowned by a stronger emotion. Shame. He shouldn't have seen me in such a state. So pathetic, so weak. Disgraced…

"Mercy: safe," he stepped closer and lowered to one knee, reaching towards the cuffs on my wrists, but I jerked away instinctively while shaking my head wildly.

He did not seem to understand.

"It is over, no need to…"

"No! Please…don't look at me now!" I hiccupped, turning my face away. "Don't look at me…!"

Soundwave snapped his gaze to Ravage next to him.

"Did they do anything to her?"

"No. I stopped the one trying to, just in time. But that fragger got close."

Hearing him, I thought I would feel better, yet I didn't. So I was truly assaulted while unconscious, and although nothing happened - if what Ravage says is true - I still felt filthy all over. Those horrible scrapes across my body…they were proof enough. Ugly enough.

"They've been dealt with accordingly," Soundwave reached towards the cuffs again. I flinched, but I let him free me.

My frame still shook all over. My free servos trembled as I tried to push myself up.

"Did-did you know that this would happen?" I raised my optics, finally looking at him, teary and messed up.

"I had suspicions. But they acted sooner than I'd predicted," Soundwave answered, his tone gentle compared to his usual flat speech pattern. "But you did well. Your efforts were not in vain."

Tearing up again, I wiped my face helplessly. Soundwave slid one servo under my knees and one under my wings, effortlessly lifting me up from the ground as he rose back to his pedes.

I let him. My arms instinctively circled his neck and shoulder. Grasping for support. I buried my face against his chest-plates, trying to suppress the cries piling up in my throat.

Soundwave beckoned with his head and his minicons steered ahead. He carried me all the way out and I don't know how long it took but we arrived back to Rearview's without anyone stopping us.

"Soundwave? Primus, what happened?!" Rearview gaped at the sight welcoming him when we stepped in.

Soundwave looked down at me, then at Ravage who was limping with his injured leg.

"I require your medical assistance."

"Quick! To the medical berth!" Rearview gestured wildly and led the tall mech to the berth. Soundwave lowered me onto it gently and stepped back once I was properly laid out.

Rearview got to work immediately, fussing over my frame as he scanned the damage. I recognized shock and pity in his optics the moment realization hit him.

"Was she…?"

"Almost. Do not press the issue. Just treat her with care."

Rearview nodded with a grim expression and said nothing for a while. My consciousness drifted back and forth during the procedure, my processor wishing to just block the whole world out.

"Leto struck quickly. She only sang one song and his hires were on the move instantly. He must be agitated," I heard Soundwave's voice.

"She should've just kept her mouth shut! Like I advised! Why did you encourage her? You know it is dangerous to upset Leto!"

Soundwave didn't answer for a while.

"She knew what she was doing. This is her atonement."

"What atonement?"

"It is a personal matter."

"You don't make sense, Soundwave!"

"You don't have to understand. I did foresee this outcome and the events will still provide the desired impact. She has proven to be useful."

"Was this a plan of yours? Scrap, Soundwave you are out of your mind!"

"I will not endanger her anymore. Keep her in here for a few days. I will deal with Leto myself."

"Didn't you want him to be served justice by the court? Legally?"

"I've changed my mind. Justice will be served through me."

His voice got distant afterwards. My processor slowly blocked out all sounds, all noises. Everything has become blank.

---

Days passed in a blurr. I was awake for a few hours, only to return to stasis for an undefined time. Rearview monitored me dutifully and I recognized Buzzsaw's chirps coming from around me.

Whenever I realized Soundwave wasn't around, my spark jumped in panic and I awoke with a start.

"Calm down, you're safe here," Rearview put a calming servo on my arm and I anxiously counted the seconds until my cooling fans quieted down and my body relaxed.

Buzzsaw landed next to my head and flapped his wings as he chirped.

"I'm okay…" I sighed, raising a servo to rub my forehead.

"Take your time, you've been through a lot," Rearview stepped away and returned to his worktable.

"Where is Soundwave?"

Buzzsaw's chirps died down and the medic scratched his head before he threw a glance over his shoulder.

"He left a few days ago. By the time he returns you won't have to worry about Leto anymore."

I sat up and slowly processed what I just heard.

"Will he be okay?"

Buzzsaw flapped his wings with confident chirps. Rearview only chuckled in amusement but didn't look up.

"Don't you worry about him. He knows what he is doing. Besides, he ordered me to watch over your recovery. I pray to Primus that he returns so he could pay me all your medical bills because I doubt you would be able to without a job."

Ah, classic Rearview. I couldn't repress a soft laugh. In spite of the horrible circumstances, he managed to make me smile, even if only a little.

I carefully placed a servo on Buzzsaw's head and upon getting no rejection, I petted him with a soft smile.

This place was safe, I was surrounded by bots protecting me, yet I still felt like I was being watched. The nightmares haunting me in my recharge cycle only added to the restlessness.

While waiting for Soundwave's return, I spent my recovery time mapping out a plan about how to proceed with my life here in the past. There was a mission to be accomplished in Iacon. Now that I was fired - and even if I wasn't I won't go back - I should be focusing on the relic and my return to the future.

Things were starting to get too heated in Kaon. Prolonging my stay here would probably be a bad choice.

I still want to say a proper goodbye though. Past-Soundwave was one thick-headed mech, but he wasn't sparkless. He saved my spark countless times and I was immensely grateful. Still, I preferred his future self and I was intent on going back and clearing all misunderstandings between us.

Buzzsaw noted my long hours of silence spent on inner musings with concerned chirps. I was glad to have his company at least. Rearview got his servos full with patients these last days.

I have recovered nicely from my minor injuries and although my finish wasn't as sparkly and smooth as before, I was relieved to see no traces of scrapes left on my frame.

Just the memory made me shudder in disgust.

Then everything changed in a nanoclick. The mirror in front of me shattered together with all the windows. I ducked under a table and fervently searched for Buzzsaw in the chaos.

The minicon flew right into the fray in spite of my cries. Mechs of various sizes and shape broke into the house, armed. Rearview threw his servos up, backing off in fear while murmuring silent prayers.

They've found us. And Soundwave wasn't here.

I could only watch as Buzzsaw was taken down in a relatively short struggle. One small minicon against a group of armed mechs couldn't stand a chance.

And I couldn't either.

---

Soundwave spent days analyzing all reliable information and sources, tracking Leto's movements until he found an opportunity to strike.

There was a carefully hidden fury rising in his spark. Leto has done enough ever since he knew the mech but his recent handiwork infuriated Soundwave even more.

Leto had to pay. For all his previous crimes, and especially for his most recent ones.

Soundwave sent out the directives for the two spy agents he involved from the spyweb. The two were loyal to him and he often utilized them in case he needed extra servos. He wasn't stupid enough to walk into Leto's lair alone afterall.

The plan was to infiltrate the place, get to Leto and finish him off quickly. Easier said than done but he spent the last few cycles working on the plan and it was foolproof.

He also checked in with Rearview from time to time, making sure the femme was recovering well. How strange that she has become a key element in recent events happening around him.

She was outstanding in her own right. Physically weak, yet emotionally intelligent. A bad liar, yet skilled with words. Timid, yet incredibly brave. Suspicious in everything she did, yet honest and reliable at the same time.

She was a walking contradiction.

Soundwave sensed that something was amiss around her the first moment they met, but the deeper he dug the more confused he became. She was a natural manipulator yet she wasn't malicious enough to recognize or utilize her talents. It baffled him.

She truly was a sheltered youngling, just like she said. Meeting someone like her put many question marks in his processor.

She made him curious, and him being the information-hungry mech he was, Soundwave has kept a watchful optic on her ever since he came across her. He didn't like to be kept in the dark. And she offered great depth to explore.

Soundwave just wished she wasn't so much of a distraction. Her influence reached far beyond her presence in a room. She plagued processors with both her figure and her voice.

Part of him hated how he wasn't an exception.

Thinking back on it, he shouldn't have visited any of her performances. He shouldn't have kept going to them. But like the rest of her audience, he just couldn't stop. When she was on stage, she was a different person. And all he could do was stand there, transfixed, unconsciously recording every single sound she made. It was a waste of memory storage. But it was a guilty pleasure.

She was a walking-living menace wrapped in a pretty exterior. Dangerous. Dangerous indeed.

Soundwave stopped his thoughts from wandering and concentrated on the mission ahead.

His target was located deep in the underground sector of an expansive facility. An incinerator. Among many other things.

A filthy place, but Soundwave wasn't surprised. What did surprise him though was the fact that Leto was willing to stay here for as long as he had so far.

Something felt definitely off here. He needed to proceed with caution.

Checking on his agents, Soundwave noted that they were at the correct positions. So far so good.

He entered through the emergency tunnels. They were never blocked and were less guarded. Whatever opposition he met, Ravage took care of them in advance swiftly. The cat moved almost soundlessly in the darkness which was caused by an electricity shortage made by Frenzy. The minicons and their master moved ahead with confidence, a well-trained team.

Soundwave checked on the rogue minicons he acquired for the job and they reported no sign of disturbance. Satisfied, he strode forward through the hallways without hurry. There was no need to rush as long as the plan was going smoothly. Hastiness would only lead to failure.

Frenzy and Rumble snickered in the dark as they went separate ways at the next crossing. Soundwave continued on, straight on his path, trusting the two to do their jobs.

Strange. There were more guards the last couple of days. Soundwave noted, and quickly came to a conclusion:

Leto was expecting him.

The realization did not faze him however. He was confident in his abilities to make advantage of this new predicament.

If Leto is expecting him, he will lead him into a trap.

Too bad for him, Soundwave had plenty of experience getting out of traps in the arena, which were set to make his fights more difficult.

It didn't take long to reach the first real challenge in his way. A control room which was usually handled by three bots was now crowded with foot-soldiers.

They opened fire at him the moment the doors opened and Soundwave skipped behind cover. He deployed Laserbeak who dutifully flew into the line of fire, skillfully escaping being hit as he made a commotion inside. Soundwave stepped out of cover in the momentary distraction and unsheathed his greatsword from its back-holder. Sending average guard bots against him was a futile attempt, and he was sure even Leto must have realized that this would surely not stop him.

Soundwave made quick work of them. Beheading bots, slicing off limbs, impaling the rest. Ravage and Laserbeak led the way forward confidently, detecting more to come.

This was just the start. Leto had much more in store. Soundwave had a hunch that the mech had obtained some sort of advantage that he wasn't aware of yet.

But what could it be? A new weapon? Military-trained lackeys? A new powerful ally?

The deeper he descended, the more obstacles stood in his way. Frenzy got injured and one of his agents was taken out.

He foresaw that, keeping the agents as cannon-fodder for a reason, and did not change course. Whatever he started he would see it to the finish line.

Reaching the engine room, Soundwave was struck by a stealth attack. An assassin. Small frame, lithe and deadly with short but sharp swords. A femme.

Finally a real challenge. Soundwave analyzed her as they danced across the room. The femme was quick and good at dodging, evading Ravage and Soundwave while also dealing her own cuts here and there. She was far from making real damage though.

It was Laserbeak who managed to lay a successful shot on her, knocking her off balance. The next moment Ravage's jaw caught her pede, yanking her towards his Boss, who dealt the finishing blow with his sword, splattering blue glowing energon everywhere.

There were no words exchanged, Soundwave only nodded to his minicons and turned towards the next set of doors.

At that moment the remaining agent reported in with an emergency signal.

"Soundwave! Leto has a hostage. I'm just above them. They haven't spotted me yet but my location is in jeopardy."

"Hostage?" Soundwave straightened to his full height and frowned under the visor. He did not like the implications one bit.

"Yes. He is entertaining her at the moment. She seems to be important."

She. Mercy. Soundwave snapped his gaze to Laserbeak immediately. The minicon flew off with a silent nod, no directives needed.

Change of plans.

Soundwave seethed inside but showed no sign of it as he continued his trek with Ravage on his side. The cat chanced a glance up to his master but said nothing as they fought their way across the facility's underground sectors.

Whatever Leto prepared, he will not see it to success.

---

Seeing Leto once was more than enough. I did not wish to meet him again.

Yet here I was, in a main computer room, facing him from a chair he cuffed me to. I was hyperventilating and he enjoyed every minute of it, prancing around me with a wide grin while he kept talking.

"You are a troublesome pleasure-bot, sweetspark. I lost five of my favorite guards to you. And you are destroying my business, like that arrogant Megatronus. But unlike him, you are easy prey."

I kept my gaze fixed on the ground, trying to stop my shaking.

"No answer? Too bad. I hoped you would be good company. Or are you only chatty around Soundwave?"

I made a mistake by looking up with wide optics.

"Oho, instant reaction! Darling, you truly reach for the stars don't you? Hmm, Soundwave? An amazing gladiator among many other things. You think he will come and rescue you, right? A gladiator and a prostitute. What a pair! You suit each other. But you overestimate your worth dear."

He made me question why am I here then but I kept my mouth shut and averted my gaze again.

"Sir, we have a problem in Sector 4," one of the bots at the computer panel turned to Leto. He was overseeing security footage but his screens were too far for me to see.

"Good! Keep up the entertainment! I want our guest's appetite gone by the time we finish here!"

"Understood."

I didn't understand a thing but I had a hunch security was breached. Was it Soundwave? I did hope so. If it's really him then I had to make his work easier somehow. I needed Leto's attention elsewhere.

"What's your plan with me? Last time, you wanted to terminate me," I spoke up timidly and just as predicted, he was back at my side quickly with a grin.

"What a curious femme you are! I'll keep you alive as long as you're useful, dear. But fear not, today you'll rejoin the Allspark for sure. You see, our arriving guest is your harbinger of death."

My spark began hammering and my plating trembled. I felt terror rising inside. How am I going to survive this? Oh Solus, have mercy on me….

"What have I ever done to you?" my lips trembled.

"Oh, plenty of wrongs. Thanks to you, I had to snuff a dozen of my rebellious gladiators. They owed me great debts that will now never be paid back. You're also the lucky femme who got away from a transport issued by me. I had a client who was willing to pay millions for you, and you screwed up the deal. I spent months trying to track you down! And now you made Soundwave turn against me, which I will never forgive as long as my spark lives!"

"Turn against you?" I blinked in confusion.

"I'm his biggest sponsor. I helped him get into the arenas and I provide him with weaponry. Ungrateful wretch! He thought I wouldn't notice that he was spying on me?! Well, joke is on him, because I began monitoring him as well!" Leto was seething, stomping with one of his pedes in anger.

Oh. Soundwave did mention that he had business ties with Leto. How did such a thing work in such a dysfunctional relationship?

"And you think he doesn't know?" I asked curiously, to which he straightened back up and shrugged.

"I guess he does, but that's beside the point. Even he can't pay attention to everything all at once."

Just as he said that, somewhere from above us an agile bot landed right on top of him, bringing him to the floor with a loud crash and a yelp.

The bot, a black and silver grounder femme opened fire at the nearby bots as she slammed a servo on the opening button of my restraints.

"Get up and do as I say!" the femme barked orders at me and I obeyed without hesitation. Whoever she was, if she gets me out of here, I'll do anything she says.

"Get to cover!" she yelled and I ducked under a table just in time because she was instantly surrounded by Leto's guards. She put up a fierce fight and detonated a bomb which blew a gaping dark hole into the wall behind us. It led to a tunnel of sorts.

"Get out!"

Was this a rescue mission prepared in advance? I thought nothing of it as I scrambled towards the opening obediently, my only chance of getting away.

There were shouts and chaos behind me, bots firing and clashing, some of them already on my tailpipe as I skidded down the tunnel and dropped hard against some sort of platform. A burning smell welcomed me and I raised my head to gaze at a bubbling, hot, incredibly large smelting pool.

Scrap.

I scrambled to my pedes immediately and jumped into the air, transforming. Analyzing my surroundings, I realized that this was an underground sector. There are smelting pools underground?! How? Since when?! How is the smoke not filling this place yet…?

I noticed the giant ventilation tunnels on the roof and realized: the place had many chimneys. Can I get out through one of those?

I flew closer but due to the immense heat I retreated quickly. One glance was enough to see: they all had bars. I have to find a different way out.

Then I heard a familiar noise and spotted a familiar figure. Laserbeak!

The minicon was closing in on me with loud chirping sounds.

"Soundwave is here?" the joy in my voice was audible.

"Yep! Follow me!" Laserbeak made a circle around my jet form and led the way.

"Who was that femme? She got me out."

"An agent. She was meant to intercept Leto."

"Oh…so I wasn't the target?"

"No. We've only learned that you're here just now."

"I messed things up, didn't I?"

"A little. But Boss'll know what to do. My priority is to get you out of here."

We entered a tunnel and it became so narrow I had to transform back to bipedal mode and run after Laserbeak.

"Are we there yet?" I peered down at the corridor below us when Laserbeak stopped and began opening the bars with his own set of tentacles.

"Soon. Frenzy is close. He will join us and then we scram."

The thought of being escorted by Frenzy made me relieved.

Laserbeak threw the bars out of the way and flew through the opening. I jumped after him and landed steadily on the floor below.

I gasped and flinched at the sight of fallen bodies scattered across the place. Dried energon decorated the surfaces everywhere.

"Was this…?"

"Leto's welcoming party," Laserbeak explained.

"Yep, but they all got their afts handed to them," Frenzy appeared with a smug grin and I rose to my full height with a concerned look.

"Frenzy!"

He had an ugly gash on his head, but he didn't seem to mind.

"Hey, Missy! You can't stay out of trouble for one nanoclick, can you?" he grinned as if everything was alright. Maybe the damage wasn't that bad?

"Rearview's place was ambushed! I couldn't do anything. I can only hope Rearview and Buzzsaw are okay."

"They are fine. Damaged, but they will live," Laserbeak assured me, then turned. "Let's go!"

We made it to the engine rooms when Frenzy suddenly stopped and reached to his commlink.

"Frag," he said after a momentary silence. Lasebreak's chirps also indicated that something was wrong.

"What happened?" I asked anxiously.

"Our agent is snuffed. Leto escaped. Frag him!" Frenzy angrily stomped his pedes.

My mood immediately soured. Did I mess up the whole mission? Is this all my fault?

"I'm sorry! If only I wasn't here…"

"Stop apologizing, that's not gonna help now. We still have to get out of here. We will meet Boss halfway. Come on!"

Just as he said that the whole place shook and we all reached for any kind of support hastily.

"What's happening?!"

"An earthquake?"

"This is no earthquake," Laserbeak grabbed both of us by his tentacles, helping us somewhat upright. "There was an explosion. Several of them actually."

"Hey, what you mean to say is….?" Frenzy paled.

"Leto wants to bury us. We need to get out!" Laserbeak took the lead and urged us to follow him.

It was easier said than done while the whole place was shaking and crumbling around us.

I transformed and nudged Frenzy onto my back.

"Get on! Hurry!"

"Okay, okay, go!" the minicon hit my back in panic and I speeded after Laserbeak, bending my wings as much as I could to fit the width of the hallways.

The lights were flickering and the power was going out quickly as the interior equipment was crushed around us.

"Where is Soundwave?" I asked in concern, spark hammering.

"Trapped in the main computer room with Ravage. He said he will find a way out and we should keep going," Laserbeak answered, voice strained.

Soundwave trapped? No…

I turned immediately with a sharp angle, making Frenzy scream and grip tight.

"What are you doing?! Are you out of your mind?!"

"Mercy! Soundwave ordered us to…!" Laserbeak called after me.

"I won't leave him behind!" I yelled in frustration, afraid and panicking but unable to just go on while knowing that he was still in there.

My spark wouldn't survive if I knowingly left him trapped.

I made up my mind a long time ago: I won't run anymore.

Laserbeak followed us with desperate and furious chirps until we reached back to where we came from: the main computer room. Except it was locked.

"Why won't it open?" I fretted over the opening keyboard while the ground shook around us.

"The lock is heavily encrypted. It was a trap all along. Soundwave is currently working on it," Laserbeak supplied, irritated. "Why didn't you listen to me?! We can't help from the outside!"

"We have to find a way!"

"I'm the way!" a new voice joined our group quarrel and we all turned to see a seriously injured Rumble stumble towards us with a determined expression. "Get away from the door!"

"Rumble!" I gasped at the sight.

He was leaking energon all over, yet nothing could stop him. His companions welcomed his arrival with good cheer as he joined us. We all backed away before he raised his giant pile driver arms and aimed them at the door's surface.

"Lets rumble!" he yelled as he went at it, pile drivers hammering against the door until it cracked and then gave in to the shattering force. The door exploded into pieces in front of our optics, and all I could do was just gape.

"Aye, Boss!" Rumble tiredly lowered his arms, flashing an exhausted grin in his master's way.

My spark jumped at the sight of Soundwave and Ravage, and my processor ignored the rest of the room where countless bodies lay in a pile, offline and smelling of fresh energon.

"Sorry, she was adamant about coming back," Frenzy threw his servos up when Soundwave turned towards us.

"Let's go," Soundwave beckoned with his head, simply accepting the situation as it was.

We were about to head back the way we came when one of the walls bent and broke, and hot molten metal poured into the corridor ahead of us.

"Slag!" Frenzy and Rumble yelled in unison.

Ravage turned and sprinted towards a different route:

"This way!"

Soundwave changed into alt-mode as his minicons reattached and I followed his example. It came as a surprise when I realized that Soundwave changed into an assault van. A grounder vehicle.

Was he originally a grounder vehicle?!

My musings were cut short as I followed him in the air with Laserbeak in tow, and Ravage led us along several still somewhat intact corridors until we were thrown off by another explosion. Something struck my side and I screamed in pain, knocked off-balance. I whirled in the air and transformed back, trying to land safely, although I saw nothing but smoke.

Except there was no ground to land on.

I fell into a tunnel and skidded down, helplessly clawing around for something to hold onto as I drew a line of energon streak along the way. My frame screamed against the sudden movements yet I couldn't stop.

Laserbeak followed my cries and chirped nervously as he tried to stop me from skidding any further. He was one strong minicon but he couldn't hold my weight up with his tentacles and got dragged down along with me.

He managed to slow my speed however and I skidded to halt at the end of the tunnel which straightened out horizontally. I would have sighed in relief but I noticed a servo gripping onto the edge with Ravage biting down on the arm and pulling with all his might.

Soundwave!

Ignoring the pain in my side, I stumbled to them on all fours, gasping when I saw what was below.

The smelting pool. We would have all fallen in and Soundwave was about to right now unless we pulled him back.

He was holding on for dear life, his visor severely cracked and flickering. He must have gotten injured as well.

"Let me help!" I grabbed onto Soundwave's arm and Ravage stepped aside, now lowering himself over the edge, trying to reach Soundwave's shoulder-plates.

"It's okay, we've got you!" I cried, spark bursting in fear as I gripped tight and pulled with all my might.

My frame rattled and screamed in agony. Just a moment! Please just hold out for a few more clicks!

Laserbeak flew over my head and attached his tentacles to Soundwave's shoulders, making an attempt to help.

Soundwave was heavy. Heavier than his future self for sure. Maybe twice my weight. But I couldn't muse over that, I had to get him to safety.

The flickering on his visor stopped and I felt him move. My spark jumped when his arm slipped from my hold and I cried out hysterically.

"No! Hold on! Don't let go! SOUNDWAVE!"

He didn't start to fall, much to our surprise and relief, but rather emerged and I immediately grasped his arm again, pulling him with all my might as he climbed up over the edge onto solid surface with our help.

That was when I noticed him pulling himself up with his tentacles. Thank Primus!

I launched onto him, hugging his frame tight as I sobbed into his shoulder.

"Thank Primus….oh, thank Solus….!"

Ravage sighed in relief too, watching on with a lopsided smile.

"You're injured," Soundwave remarked and touched the gash on my side which leaked even more severely now.

Now that the excitement has worn off, my processor started registering the pain.

I pulled away with a painful hiss. If I wasn't kneeling I would have staggered.

"Argh, it was the explosion," I gritted my denta and put a servo on the wound, pressing on it. My head was getting dizzier by the second.

"You shouldn't have strained yourself with such an injury. If you leak any more you will go offline," Soundwave's larger servo covered mine.

I glanced up at him and saw my clear reflection in his cracked visor, he was that close.

"If I don't help then you go offline. I took my chances!" I flashed a forced smile. The hint of worry in his actions did not go unnoticed by me. Was he really worried? Even the thought warmed my spark.

"Boss," Ravage interrupted, anxiously swishing his tail. "This place won't hold much longer. What do we do?"

Soundwave pulled away from me and took a look around. Our situation wasn't promising. We couldn't climb back up through the tunnel and only a smelting pool awaited in the deep if we went the other way.

It was hopeless.

Soundwave raised an arm and pointed towards the other side. There was a platform on the other side of the smelting pool. It was too far for a jump. But one could reach it by flight.

I could make it. Laserbeak could make it. But Soundwave and Ravage couldn't fly.

"I will carry you over there," I said before I could even think it over. My processor wasn't working coherently at this point anyway.

"You've blown your circuits," Ravage scoffed.

"I can carry Ravage," Laserbeak offered.

"I'm twice your weight," Ravage growled back.

"We are higher than that platform. We can make it," Laserbeak argued.

Soundwave ended the argument as he straightened up to his full height.

"Laserbeak: carry Ravage."

"What about you, Boss?" Ravage uneasily glanced from him to me. "The femme can't carry you. If she attempts, you will both dive into the smelting pool. We have to come up with an other plan!"

"I must try!" I tried to stand but straining the injury only made me gasp. Soundwave took me by the elbow and helped me up, steadying me on my pedes.

"See? She can barely stand," Ravage swished his tail angrily.

"I can do it!" I gritted my denta and stepped forward, measuring the distance between our position and the platform. Even if I can't make it through, Soundwave can use me as leverage and jump the rest of the distance.

My spark quivered. I wasn't ready to die yet. But I had to right my wrongs, and we are here by my fault so I'll take responsibility. Even if I cry in the face of what's to come.

Courage, Mercy! Crossflare would shoulder the task. Halo wouldn't back down. I shouldn't either.

"We will find an other way," Soundwave stepped next to me but I shook my head.

"Please trust me. I will get you to the other side."

"There is an 80% chance of you not surviving."

"Then I place my bet on that 20% and pray," I flashed a smile. I hoped it was reassuring enough.

"You and your bets," Soundwave shook his head, then beckoned to Laserbeak. "Laserbeak: to the other side."

The minicon immediately circled his tentacles around Ravage securely and lifted the cat off the floor.

"Wait! Boss, this isn't going to work! Soundwave!" Ravage squirmed, only to be scolded by Laserbeak as he flew off, into steaming air above the smelting pool.

We watched in concern, praying that they would get over safely.

Laserbeak struggled with the weight but held out and although it was a crashland, they made it through.

"Yes!" their success emboldened me. We can make it through. We just have to try!

"Mercy," I turned my full attention to Soundwave when he called me by my designation. Since when did he? The fact made me incredibly happy.

"Yes?"

"Survive," he said, nodding to me.

Oh.

I put on my best smile and nodded back.

"Trust me."

It was easier said than done. My systems were screaming, signaling my quickly declining state. At this rate this stunt seemed even less appealing than before but I held onto my resolve.

I told him to trust me, I cannot disappoint.

Courage, Mercy!

Taking a deep intake and preparing for the worst, I transformed and held back a painful yell. It felt like something was really wrong inside me. Something was either broken, penetrated or cracked. Will I be able to fly?

I tried my engines and they worked, although my energy was running low.

This will be a one way trip.

"Hold onto me!"

Soundwave gripped the tail of my jet mode and carefully balanced himself over my wings.

"Ready?" I turned on my engines again.

"Ready."

"Now or never!" I tensed up despite the pain, the weight, the pressure, and shot forward like a bullet, taking off with a dynamic start.

It hurt. Red alarms flickered all over my inner displays. My systems were overheating, low on energy and at the brink of shut-down.

Focus, Mercy!

I was descending. I couldn't keep a straight line.

No…

Directing all leftover energy and power into my engines, I propelled forward. Too low. Too low, too low…and just a quarter of the distance left. This is it. This is as far as I go.

"Jump!" I shouted with the last of my strength, then my circuits went haywire.

I barely remembered how my frame tilted out of balance. I was facing the smelting pool. I was diving towards it. There was none of my strength left. My engines shut down. My navigation offline. I was dead weight claimed by gravity.

Then something small smacked into my side, and an other one. They pulled.

Descend became ascend. I was being lifted.

My wings scraped the side of a platform. And then I was on solid ground, with servos gripping me.

"Mercy!"

"Mercy!"

"Hang on, Mercy."

Familiar voices were calling my designation. They finally learned my name.

---

I was being buffered when I came to my senses. I gasped, feeling the dull pain in my side, but was held down by a strong servo. My processor jumped to conclusions and I was about to panic when I recognized the large rearview mirrors.

Rearview.

"Stay down. You're in no condition to get up."

I looked around but my surroundings were hazy until my optics adjusted.

We were in a dark place with low lighting. Several computers and machinery hummed around us.

"Where are we?"

"I thought you would know. Soundwave's workshop."

At second glance, I recognized the place. Of course. The workshop…Wait.

"Soundwave!" I jerked upwards in panic, only to be pushed back down again more forcefully.

"Scrap, femme, just do as I say, will you?! Soundwave is fine! He brought you here!"

Hearing that quieted my raging concerns and I lay back in exhaustion. I did not have the energy to jump around yet. I felt drained. And just overall terrible.

"Oh, she is awake!" I heard Laserbeak's voice and turned my gaze in search for him.

The minicon landed beside my head and chirped happily.

"You're back! We thought you were done for!"

"Yeah, you are crazy, missy! Like, absolutely crazy!" Frenzy hopped onto the table as well, grinning. The gash on his head was already tended to.

Rumble appeared beside him, propping his elbows up on the table.

"I admit, you are something else, femme," he muttered, less grumpy than before. I flashed him a nervous smile.

Buzzsaw landed beside Laserbeak and I noted in relief that he was okay.

"How troublesome. I won't babysit you anymore," he said and I chuckled in amusement. His tone wasn't resentful.

Ravage was the next one, putting up his paws on the table, regarding me with narrowed optics.

"You saved my Boss. I'm grateful and in debt to you, Mercy of Praxus. I apologize for how I've treated you before."

I blinked in awe. Did he really apologize? Was this the same Ravage who I knew? Well, whatever happened to him, my spark burst in joy upon hearing these words.

"I owe all of you more. Thank you for saving me," I smiled brightly, basking in the glow of their acceptance.

I felt like I managed to get through to them. The feeling was liberating.

The doors opened at that moment, and Soundwave's broad figure strolled in. My expression brightened immediately. His minicons greeted him with various noises and scattered from the table.

When he noticed that I was awake he stepped next to Rearview and tilted his head in the medic's direction.

"Her condition?"

"Stable. She is getting better. Her cracked main tube-line is still sensitive. It could have cost her her life," Rearview shook his head, clearly displeased. "And this whole ordeal cost me my house! I hope you have another one in store for me, Soundwave, because now I have nowhere to go!"

I gaped at the medic.

"You lost your house?"

"They blew it up after they took you. It's in pieces. I barely escaped the explosion myself."

So that place….the house I've been calling home for the past few months…it's all gone.

"You will stay here for the time being," Soundwave assured the medic in a flat tone, "I will provide shelter and protection. I won't risk letting you two get captured or cornered again."

"And how much safer are we here?" Rearview raised a doubtful optic ridge and put the buffer aside.

"The workshop is cloaked. Nobody would know that you are here from the outside. I have security weapons and most of my minicons gather around this place. They would alert me should anything happen."

"Thank you, for letting us stay," I weakly sat up, grimacing from the pain, but smiled at him gratefully once I was seated in a comfortable position. Rearview didn't push me back again.

Soundwave nodded and watched in silence for a while before he spoke up again, more gently this time:

"Thank you for coming back for us."

His words struck me with a strange feeling. I blinked at him in surprise, but smiled back nevertheless. Was this the first time he thanked me for anything?

His voice hardened a second later though as he threateningly loomed over me, jabbing a finger against my chest:

"But next time, you do exactly as I say. No excuses."

He said nothing more and walked around the berth, leaving towards the back of his workshop and disappeared behind a door. We all followed his figure with our gazes until he was out of sight.

"Ooh, that's high praise," Laserbeak chirped.

"Boss doesn't do grateful," Rumble explained when he saw my confused stare.

"Well, 'humble' has never been a word I associated with him," Rearview collected his tools and brought them over to a shelf and packed them away.

I was still too stunned to speak, but I managed a smile. True. Soundwave was anything but humble. But I couldn't resent him for it. Actually, I loved this side of him. His unwavering confidence in himself was one of the many things I admired him for.

"So…where is the washroom around here? I'm dying for an oil bath," Rearview scratched his head as he looked around.

"Downstairs. We'll show you around," Rumble beckoned to him and Rearview followed him to the back where Soundwave disappeared a few minutes ago.

As it later turned out, there was a hidden door over there on the floor which only opened to authorized members. Stairs led down to an underground house complex. It had many rooms and all facilities a normal dwelling had.

Except everywhere you went there were screens and displays and all kinds of cameras.

"Boss likes to keep an optic on everything, no matter which room he is in," Frenzy explained to me once I was fine enough to walk and he showed me around.

"He never sleeps?" I chuckled. How fitting of him to make his own house a 24/7 surveillance headquarters.

"Eh, sometimes he does," Frenzy shrugged.

I stopped and blinked at him in shock. Sometimes?!

"With you here though that will probably change," he continued with a carefree grin, then shrugged again and walked ahead, "Anyway, so this is the…."

My thoughts were reeling now. What did he mean by that?!

The rest of the minicons were out on duty. They have been roaming the city ever since we survived the incident at the incinerator. Soundwave had several agents on Leto's trail as well. The only members in the house were us: Rearview, Soundwave, Frenzy and me.

Rearview spent most of his time upstairs, doing repairs for gladiators. Soundwave was downstairs in the main control room, overseeing the operation he was currently working on, and Frenzy, well, he was mostly in my company.

While he used to complain about babysitting me, now he didn't seem to mind helping me with basic tasks, like getting up and sitting down, which still posed a challenge.

Transformation was out of the question for a while. Rearview was very adamant about it.

"I'm not gonna fix you again if you strain your injury irresponsibly," he said.

"Doc is no fun. You seem fine to me!" Frenzy spoke up the other day when we sat around the table in the energon storage room, having our share of energon.

"I'm much better but my side still stings," I nodded, absently staring into my glass of energon.

"Eh, that's nothing, if you ask me, we should…" he was about to suggest one of his nonsensical ideas to pass the time - which always made me laugh - when Soundwave appeared at the door.

"Hey, Boss!" Frenzy waved with a wide grin. His love for his master was so obvious. His face always lit up.

All of the minicons adored Soundwave one way or another. It was adorable, and sparkwarming.

Soundwave only glanced his way, and Frenzy immediately hopped off his stool.

"Okay, understood," the minicon bounced towards the door, but turned and winked at me before he left.

The gesture confused me but I had no time to dwell on it. Soundwave poured himself a glass of energon as well and took a seat across from me.

"It's only a matter of days."

"What?"

"I've been tracking Leto's movements. My agents managed to terminate most of his spies so your position should be safe for now. I will locate him soon and he will answer for his crimes."

"Why are you telling me this?"

"Because you worry."

"Oh," I nervously cast my optics down. "Is it that obvious?"

"You always worry."

"I don't want to relive anything like that ever again. My recharge cycles are full of nightmares. I cannot not worry. Don't you ever get tired of fighting?"

"We fight till we die," he answered calmly.

I chuckled, rather sadly.

"I figured you would say something like that."

"I'm going to meet Megatronus tomorrow."

His sudden proclamation made me look up with wide optics.

"W-why?"

"Gladiators are growing restless. There are more and more street fights. We may use it to our advantage. I wish to discuss the details with him."

"Did something happen while we were away?"

"Yes. You disappeared. Those who saw Leto threatening you have spread the news that you were terminated. Among many others who started speaking up against authority. You are considered a martyr now."

"A what?" I gaped.

Soundwave chuckled. I've never heard a sound like that from him. It made a shiver run down my spine.

"I told you. Your efforts were not in vain."

"Did you foresee this?"

"It's safer to say I had a hunch."

"Were you gambling with my life then?" I frowned.

"Not anymore."

"So you were."

"Does it change anything?"

What was he playing at? I frowned again, trying to figure out his intentions. He could be such a headache.

"Sometimes you surprise me with how cruel you can be."

"Am I any less in the future?"

"Well, I haven't seen you in action yet. I cannot tell. And you don't talk much so I haven't picked it up in your speech either."

"You claim we are friends yet you know so little of me?"

Blushing, I coughed into my fist in embarrassment.

"Like I said, you don't talk much. I would always ask, but you just wouldn't answer!"

"I probably have a reason."

"It's not my fault you share so little of yourself."

"But you're curious."

"Of course I am. But I also respect your boundaries. If you wish to keep things a secret, it's your choice."

Soundwave tilted his head. I could practically see the wheels working in his ever complicated processor.

"What did I do share then?"

Your spark, I thought. But it would be complicated to explain it because I had no answers for that situation myself. So I said what came to mind next.

"Your face."

He stilled immediately, then carefully nodded to me.

"Explain."

"Well…." I nervously squirmed on my seat and timidly focused my optics on the visor, trying to recall the memory while blushing madly. Remembering the situation did not help. But his features were definitely engraved in my memory. I wouldn't be able to ever forget.

"You have red optics. Narrow ones. They have gray outlines. You have thin, dark eyebrows," I explained, gesturing with my servos, drawing lines into the air in front of his visor, trying to visualize it, "Two lines descend from your optics down to the sides of your faceplate. Around here," I pointed out, my digit hovering over the visor.

"And…your mouth is here," my finger trailed down and settled on the spot I imagined his mouth to be. I looked up to where I thought his optics were and suddenly realized that I touched him without permission.

"Ah, sorry…."

I drew back, blushing even more, and fumbled to excuse my actions, but he was quicker to speak:

"A precise description."

Soundwave reached up and I gaped when I realized what he was about to do. There was a soft clicking sound, then he removed the mask, revealing the face I just described.

It was like he hasn't changed anything in eons. The same outlines, the same features. Except, his gaze was different. Something about the way he looked at me wasn't the same.

"Have I taken off the visor so often?" he asked, and seeing his mouth move felt like the most alien thing imaginable. I needed a moment to collect myself.

"N-no…"

"Yet you memorized my features to the last detail?"

"Y-yes. It felt like an honor to see your face. A secret. I was happy you trusted me with it."

Soundwave tilted his head with a smug smile. Seeing his expression was making my spark feel weird things. And he seemed to be aware of it. I've always felt it before, the way he analyzed everything in the line of his vision, and now it felt even more intense.

Like I was being read like an open file.

Seeing my reaction, Soundwave chuckled and raised his own glass to drink from it. I never expected to see the day when I see him refuel in front of me.

"It's so strange…" I mumbled, casting my optics down.

"What is?"

"Seeing you."

"Why?"

"Because I'm used to the opposite. I'm always trying to figure out your intentions, your thoughts….but when I can read your expression, it's entirely different."

"I think you've got the wrong impression of me all along," Soundwave pointed out and, noticing my confusion, continued to explain, "Since you always just assume what I think, you project an image onto me. The real me however, is nothing like the Soundwave you assume me to be."

"Oh…I've never thought about it like that," I frowned, realizing my mistake. It was disappointing. So everything I thought of him being him was just an image I've made up? Was everything we shared in the future nonexistent?

Soundwave watched my inner battle with interest, then drank the rest of his glass in one go and stood.

"I'll remove the mask as long as I'm down here from now on."

"W-why?" I glanced up at him with wide optics, my spark picking up speed as I mentally imagined what that would mean.

"So that you would stop making unnecessary assumptions."

Just like that, he left. Leaving me with my reeling thoughts and whirling emotions.

Soundwave kept his word. The minicons all gathered around me the next day, inquiring what I did to him because he began walking around without his visor inside his own home.

"Um, isn't he usually casual in here?" I tried acting innocent but they weren't buying it.

"Stop messing with us, Missy, he's changed since the last time he spoke to you!" Frenzy was grabbing my arm and shaking it like a hysterical sparkling. "Tell us!"

"Boss would never act out of his way unless he had a good reason," Ravage added his own thoughts, swishing his tail while watching me with a calculating gaze.

"Yes! There must be something!" Laserbeak whined.

"There is nothing!" I told them for the twentieth time, getting frustrated.

"Okay, fine!" Frenzy let go of me and crossed his arms, turning away. "I'll think what I want then! And you know what? I bet you two made out! That's it! You kiss so well he decided to throw the visor away!"

Gasping and blushing madly, I raised my servos to my heated face.

"N-no! Frenzy! That's not it!"

"Ugh, Frenzy, now I have that visual engraved in my processor!" Rumble closed his optics and shook his head as if trying to erase the image.

"No! Stop thinking about it! That's not what happened!"

"Sure, then why don't you tell us?" Frenzy wiggled his optic ridges.

Laserbeak and Ravage just sighed in unison.

"Come on Frenzy, give her a break."

"Aw, guys, it's not like we don't know what's going on here."

"It's none of our business," Ravage reprimanded him.

"It is, when we technically live on Soundwave!"

"Don't you go there! I'll electrocute you!" Laserbeak warned and Frenzy suppressed a laugh with one servo.

It was the most humiliating conversation I've ever had in my life, but at least Ravage put the others in place and pushed them out of my room before he turned to me. I felt like a lecture was coming and so I stood quietly, anxiously awaiting what was to come.

"I do not intend to meddle in your personal relationship with my Boss. However I must warn you, should you ever betray his trust, there will be consequences."

I didn't expect that. It wasn't so long ago that I almost died trying to get him to safety. They all knew by now that I would give my spark up for him. Why would he think I would ever betray Soundwave?

"Haven't I proven myself?"

"I wasn't talking about life or death," Ravage narrowed his optics. "But about having other partners."

What was he hinting at….?

"What I'm trying to say is, you either commit yourself to him, or you don't at all. I have nothing else to add."

Ravage's words struck something in me. He thought that I'm….? That I would ever…? No. Don't go there Mercy. You are not even in a relationship with him. We are nothing but allies, if that term can even describe our strange connection to each other.

I do consider him a friend, but he obviously does not. Thinking about more or even desiring it was out of the question, no matter how much my spark hammers at the thought. Foolish. So utterly foolish.

Then why am I hoping?

---

When Soundwave was away and his minicons were out on a mission - upon Frenzy's insistence - I started practicing dance again. There was a training room downstairs, big enough to give me plenty of space.

I had to be careful after so much damage done to my frame, but it was good to move my joints. Some little exercise won't hurt.

Frenzy was an enthusiastic audience. He clapped and bounced along to the beat. We had fun. I finally laughed again. Rearview sometimes popped up in the wide training room, checking on us. He always noted that we were just acting silly and then he left.

"Sing, sing!" Frenzy always demanded a song so I humored him.

But there were days when I just wanted to be left alone. Thinking. Or just feeling. I could not place my confusing, clashing emotions sometimes. It was frustrating. The nightmares were sometimes just too much. I needed to let it out.

So I sang and danced. They were mostly sorrowful ballads. Musical notes written for broken hearts and flightless dreams. I felt a little lost.

On such a day, when I was in too deep trying to get my processor straight about what I wanted, my lonely trance was broken when I noticed Soundwave standing in the door.

He was casually leaning against the doorframe, watching me with crossed arms and silent interest.

"Oh," I lowered my arms and bounced back on my heels from the position I stopped in, halting the music. "I didn't notice you, sorry."

"It's come to my attention that you tune everything out when you dance," he remarked and pushed himself away from the door.

My sparkrate picked up as he strode closer. There was a strange emotion in his optics that I had yet to place.

"You watch me dance?"

"Sometimes."

"Why?"

He stepped to me and looked down with that mysterious smile of his.

"It's enthralling."

His words were like a stab in the spark. But instead of pain, they brought warmth.

"Thank you…I didn't know you liked it."

"I do. You are agile and flexible. With proper training, you could make a skilled fighter."

My face heated up. He just complimented me. Twice. My spark was bursting from joy and embarrassment. How could he say such things with such a straight face?!

But before I could answer, the small smile on his face turned into a frown:

"But you are weak."

Joy was immediately erased from my expression.

"T-true, but I'm not fighter material anyway," I awkwardly cast my optics down.

"If you want to survive, you should at least be able to defend yourself," he insisted.

I looked back at him, with an optic ridge raised in curiosity.

"Are you suggesting that you would teach me?"

Soundwave simply nodded and my moment of shock turned into joy again. He would teach me something. What an opportunity! I excitedly beamed at him.

"Really? I-I can't believe it! You are one of the strongest mechs I know! Only second to Megatron!"

Soundwave rolled his optics at that, frowning.

"I'm second to no one. He just got lucky."

"Oh. I thought you didn't mind that you lost?"

"Less chatter and more action, Mercy," he stepped a few feet back and got into a fighting stance.

"W-wait...shouldn't you say some instructions before you...?" I had no time to finish the question because Soundwave swung his left fist with incredible speed and would have probably knocked my head off unless he stopped his fist in a breath's distance just as quickly.

My whole body froze, unable to move or scream and shut my optics instinctively. When I reopened them again, I saw Soundwave withdrawing his fist with a focused expression.

"I won't hurt you. But you should at least move away when someone is trying to punch you."

All I managed was a shaken nod. Right. Freezing up is like asking for death to bite you. But I couldn't help it. He was too quick and I didn't know we'd already started!

"Okay, um, I will try to pay attention from now on," I raised my servos and balled them into fists.

"Not like that. Your pose is completely wrong," he pushed my fists down and came over to my side.

Soundwave explained calmly, his voice always steady and his focus unwavering. But I couldn't help my wandering mind. He rarely touched me willingly. And my only memories of him doing so were of the washracks back on the Nemesis. Recalling that time in our current predicament didn't help.

I fumbled to do as he said. But it was obvious my processor was a mess.

"Why are you nervous?" he asked once he was satisfied with my pose.

"I am not."

A pitiful denial. He didn't say anything, but I saw the answer in his optics. He didn't believe me.

From that on I tried to concentrate with all my might. Slowly, his instructions distracted me enough to finally focus on the task at servo. He showed me the basic defense poses. Then he explained where a trained attacker would strike. Where to find my weak points. Step by step, I learned how general attacks worked. It was like learning choreography with a partner. A dance of sorts.

Once that thought clicked in my head, my nervousness dissipated and imitating his example became a lot easier.

Hours flew by like nothing. It was fun, but exhausting. The training didn't seem to affect Soundwave physically in any way though. I had a feeling he could do this all day and still wouldn't tire.

After evading a new set of hits from him, I lowered my arms and sighed in exhaustion:

"I think I've reached my limit for today..."

But Soundwave didn't seem to hear or he just ignored it because he grabbed me by the shoulder and lifted effortlessly, then turned me over his back and sent me against the floor with a loud whack.

I groaned in pain and clutched my sensitive side with a hiss. Okay, I didn't expect that. Soundwave leaned into my line of vision, filling my view as he pointed a digit at me in annoyance:

"Never let you guard down."

"You should have just said so..." I forced a weak smile.

I recharged well after tiring myself out. Training did help make me feel better, even if it was a little rough. Soundwave did not take it easy on me, although he never hurt me for real.

The following days we kept up the routine. He often expressed how my physical weakness irritated him but I tried to lighten the mood with chatter. He rarely reciprocated, but at least my voice seemed to ease his frustrations.

"No. You'll just move right into my blade. You should turn like this. Follow me," he advised and showed me the evasive move correctly. It was swift. He made it look easy. The grace and elegance he moved with also had me transfixed. I could never stop admiring him.

"You know Soundwave, for a gladiator, you move rather elegantly," I said while imitating the movement. "Like you were dancing."

"An interesting comparison."

Soundwave stopped and turned to look at me and I did the same. I smiled as I continued, emboldened by his full attention:

"You know, I just had an idea! If you don't mind, I could teach you something as well."

Soundwave raised an optic ridge. There was a small smile hidden at the corner of his mouth. He was amused.

"You want to teach me how to dance?"

"Yes! If you don't mind."

"I don't."

"Good!" I grinned and excitedly filed over my great library of songs and musical numbers. "Do you have a preferred musical style?"

"Surprise me," Soundwave tilted his head.

I nodded and closed my optics for a second. For our first dance I should start with something simple. Or would that offend him? He seemed like a quick learner and I felt like he was a natural. Would he be able to keep up if I led him? What was I even thinking. This was Soundwave. Of course he would!

At the next moment music filled the air. It came from my hidden speakers positioned at the two sides of my head.

The song, which wasn't really a song because it didn't have a vocalist, wasn't too fast but it was dynamic. It had a firm drum-beat. And a leading violin which I loved to bits. I could only hope it fit his taste too.

Just one look at him confirmed that my choice piqued Soundwave's interest.

I invited him with an encouraging smile and an extended servo. Soundwave moved after momentary hesitation, something I rarely saw him do, and placed his servo in mine.

I pulled closer and placed his other servo on my waist, resting my own on his shoulder next.

"We start from here," I flashed a bright smile, seeing how stiff he became in an instant. He glanced down at our position with a thoughtful frown, then decided to play along silently for the time being.

"I will lead, you follow."

That was my only instruction as I began to move, pulling him with me.

My servos guided him with expertise, step after step, turn after turn, and the beat did the rest. Soundwave found the rhythm quite quickly. Just like I predicted, he was a natural. Seeing him become more confident, I focused less on leading him and more on making it feel more fun.

Dance had no meaning if it wasn't entertaining. And I was physically unable to dance without putting my all into it.

I whirled around and stepped away, but his servo pulled me back. I laughed merrily and he took the lead, so our movements became bolder and faster. He pulled me close. I stared into his radiant optics playfully before I stepped away with an elegant spin, holding my arms behind. I glanced back over my shoulder and found a pair of impatient optics trying to claim me back.

That gaze pulled a string in me.

His servo found mine and I was back in his hold. Firm and secure. He leaned in close and my spark hammered in anticipation, my green optics locked with his red ones, transfixed.

"You are playing with me, aren't you?" he asked in a low voice.

I didn't expect that. It sent a shiver down my spine.

"N-no, why would I…?"

After an agonizing minute of him scrutinizing me from close, Soundwave let go and I stepped back instinctively. The music stopped. He was tense. I could feel it in the air, in his frame. The look in his optics. As if he was anticipating a fight.

"Soundwave?"

"Thank you for the lesson. It was enlightening."

With that he swiftly turned and left the room, leaving me confused. Did I do something wrong? Did he not like it?

My thoughts were reeling and clashing again. Why did he always have to rile me up so?!

He did not return for days after that. It made me agitated. While I knew he was probably out on a mission or conspiring with Megatron, I could not shake the thought that he stayed away because of me.

"Stop it, Missy, you're giving me a head-ache!" Frenzy called me out one day when I was restlessly walking up and down downstairs, anticipating his supposed return.

"I just want to know if he is fine."

"He is, I assure you."

"But he left so suddenly and he didn't say where he went…"

"Because it's top secret and because of you."

"Me?" I looked up immediately. Seeing my expression, Frenzy threw a servo up in my direction.

"See? This is why. You worry."

"How could I not when…!"

"Yeah, I know, you love him too much. We all know."

"W-what-wait I've never said…!"

"You don't have to. It's obvious. Primus, stop denying already!"

"I'm not denying!"

"You do. Adamantly. And nobody understands why, when Boss is obviously attracted to you. Are you blind or ignorant on purpose?" Frenzy sighed with an unimpressed expression.

My spark stilled and I blinked in awe and disbelief. Soundwave was attracted to me? Since when? Part of me knew and denied it. Another part of me still questioned it and considered all evidence a fabrication of my imagination.

He was very blunt most of the time. He did not sugarcoat his words. He could be harsh one second and gentle the next. He was considerate in his actions but not with his words. I was sure I would never notice if he lied to me but I was equally sure he had never lied to me. He kept many secrets though and he protected them well. Soundwave had incredible control over his emotions and every form of his self-expression.

When I was with him I always second-guessed myself. Was I interpreting his cues right? Or was I all wrong?

My inner battle was interrupted when I heard Rearview's voice from upstairs.

"Soundwave! You look horrible!"

No answer.

"You need a proper examination right now…!"

"I'm not injured. Stop fussing. Treat Laserbeak and Ravage instead."

The door to downstairs opened and I watched anxiously as he descended the stairs. When his whole frame came to view I gasped in horror.

Soundwave was covered in freshly spilled energon from the bottom up. Even his visor was messy. It looked like he had just bathed in an energon pool.

"Soundwave, are you…?"

"It is not mine," he assured me calmly when he passed by me.

"Whoa, welcome back Boss," Frenzy tipped his head respectfully.

I followed Soundwave, fretting over his intimidating appearance. He needed a thorough shower for sure. The stench of death was all around him.

Suddenly he turned and I halted in hope that he would explain. Soundwave regarded me silently and then spoke:

"Leto won't be returning to Kaon for a while."

"He is gone?" I could barely believe it.

"He managed to escape once again but he is cut from his resources. The revolt was a success."

I beamed in relief. Finally. Leto was a regular guest of my nightmares but with him gone from the city he might exit my dreams as well.

"Thank you, Soundwave."

"You owe me a meeting with Megatronus," he said as he turned again and continued his way towards the washroom.

"What? W-wait, why?" I jogged after him with a hammering spark. A meeting with Megatron? He can't be serious!

"When he learned that you are alive, he specifically requested that you meet him. I said yes on your behalf. And since you owe me, you will go, won't you?"

I owed him my spark many times but such a request….My fuel tank twisted at the thought.

"I-I will if it's that important, but only once!" I agreed halfheartedly. Would I regret this later? I would have to make sure Megatron wouldn't recognize me. I can't have his future self connect me with my supposed past self. No way I can explain myself out of that hole.

Soundwave nodded in satisfaction. We reached the washroom and I came to his side with a concerned expression.

"Can I help you? You look like you could use an extra servo."

Soundwave stopped at the door and tilted his head towards me questioningly.

He didn't say no so I took his silence as a yes and pushed the opening button. I stepped in before him and he followed me inside. The door hissed shut behind us.

I went to get the sponges. It felt kind of nostalgic. Except there was no Laserbeak with us right now. Just the two of us.

I tried to shake the nervousness off when I looked up and saw him turn on the tap above the spacious shower stall.

Don't make this awkward, Mercy. Just help him out!

I stepped in next to him and immediately went to his back, which had a completely different structure from what I remembered.

"May I?"

The only answer was a nod. It reminded me of the old days I missed. A sad smile crept to my face as I got to work washing all energon off him. The dried stains were a pain to rub off. Yet I worked silently through every nook and seam.

My frame also welcomed the warm shower. Droplets rolled off my armor as I moved around. Finished with his back, I stepped to his side, helping him with his broad shoulder-plate.

Soundwave watched me intently through it all. His gaze barely left me and I could practically see the many questions piling up in his processor.

"Yes?" I asked, breaking under the invisible pressure when I was scrubbing his front with intense focus, ignoring the soft tremors in my frame.

"Do you shower with me in the future?" he asked. His voice was calm, yet I noticed the underlying tension.

It just vibrated in the air. Maybe aiding him in the shower wasn't the best idea now that I think about it.

"Sometimes," I answered quietly, refusing to look up at him. He had removed his visor earlier. Looking at him unmasked was too dangerous for my spark. I should not risk it.

"Why didn't you tell me?"

I had no answers to that question. My spark beat erratically and my thoughts reeled. It didn't help that he leaned closer on purpose. His presence was overwhelming.

I felt two servos coming to grip me by the waist and I stilled in his hold. There was a moment of stillness, then I was thrust against the wall, pinned and caged between his arms. A familiar situation. Except now I didn't feel like running.

I gasped and looked up with wide optics nevertheless.

"You look surprised. What did you expect?" Soundwave tilted his head sternly.

I couldn't find the words. They were stuck in my throat. All I could feel was how his servos began to move. Carefully at first, then getting bolder, exploring, touching, tracing over sensitive joints all over my frame. Sounds that I didn't know I could make left my mouth involuntarily as I gripped his shoulders for dear life.

A deep rumble responded from the depth of his chest. I recognized it as the sound of his engine. My cooling fans kicked in immediately.

"W-wait…" I whispered, almost inaudibly.

"What for?" his face hovered just a breath away from mine. His optics were demanding. It wasn't in his nature to ask nicely. I had experience with it. But I made the mistake of looking him in the optic and his desire met my need. He had all his answers.

His lips met mine and my servos moved to cup the sides of his face instinctively, welcoming, encouraging. He did not need any encouragement though.

Soundwave lifted me up by the waist and I was still amazed by how light I felt in his hold. He wedged a thigh between my legs to support me and aligned his torso with mine.

My sensors were going haywire. Steam clouded the air around us and my processor felt just as foggy, blinded, all senses focused solely on him.

Every touch and every kiss felt good. Then why did it all feel wrong somehow? Somewhere in the back of my mind, I knew that I did not want it like this.

Still, the current of emotions and sensual stimulation would have carried me on. I snapped out of my haze when I felt him touch the panel covering my interface port. No. I can't go there. Not like this.

The sudden realization made me pull away and push against him.

"Wait, wait, Soundwave, stop!" I pleaded, hoping that he would listen, and he eventually did, pulling back just a fraction to see what the problem was.

"Why?"

"I can't….we can't…not like this!" I stuttered, shaking my head and pulling my servos away from his frame as if I'd touched fire. Heated droplets rolled down all over his chassis, shining like small diamonds in the soft blue light of the room.

"Then why are you here?" his optics narrowed down at me and I cowered under his heavy gaze.

"I wanted to help you. Truly."

"So it's just a habit of yours that you aid mechs in the shower?"

"N-no, only you…"

"And you expect me to just stand by and bear with it? That's what my future self does?"

"Your future self is…very well-mannered," except that one time but I'm not going to tell him about it.

Soundwave frowned deep, and it looked like he was angry and frustrated and I had no idea how to pacify him.

"Or I'm just incredibly patient. But I must warn you, my patience has limits and you are pushing it too far."

"W-What did I do?"

"And you have the audacity to ask that," Soundwave shook his head with an irritated sigh. "You claim to like me, you hug me, you touch me, you look at me like that, yet you deny me this much."

Embarrassed by how he called me out, I cast my optics down. True, I messed up. My actions clearly mirrored my honest emotions, it was pointless to lie or deny.

I felt like crying because I didn't want to push him away. I wanted his proximity, and I wanted all he was willing to offer. But it wouldn't feel right if it was just a spur of the moment. Especially not when I knew that he would have a fracture bond. He might not right now but he will eventually have one in the future. It broke my spark if I thought too much about it.

"I like you. Actually, it's more than that, but that's my side. You….I don't know what you think of me, but I've never got the impression that you feel anything like that for me. You've never told me anything. And I can't just interface with someone who doesn't feel the same. I'm physically unable."

Soundwave continued to frown, as if he was offended by my words.

"Your doubts are invalid. I would show you what I feel if only you let me."

His servos reached for my waist again and I was too stunned to move away. What did he mean by that? Did he feel the same? Why couldn't he just say it then? How could he just invalidate my doubts like that? He had no idea what knowledge I held in my grasp.

"Give me some time…please," I pushed gently against him once more, halting any advances. "I don't think I'm ready."

Soundwave didn't seem happy but relented to my wishes and stepped back a small distance, only to give me enough space to cool down.

"Have you ever had any partners before?"

I blushed again.

"No…"

"I see," Soundwave sighed and his features softened some. "Do you want to stay?"

I blinked up at him questioningly and he clarified:

"Here. With me."

"Y-yes," came my automatic answer, maybe too quickly. Soundwave sighed once again and one of his tentacles collected the dropped sponges from the floor. He offered me one and I took it timidly.

"You really test my patience, femme."

"Sorry…I can go out if you want me to…"

"No. Stay."

So I stayed. And let him pull me closer by the waist just a little.

---

Rearview glanced down at my chassis, then back to my optics, then back to my chassis again. It was humiliating but I needed his help.

"Please…just help me get these fixed before any of the minicons notice," I pleaded quietly.

They wouldn't let me live it down. Frenzy most surely.

The medic rubbed his forehead with both servos, then sighed and nodded.

"Okay, fine, get me the buffer."

I gratefully ran to fetch the requested item to get this small cosmetic session over with. Just as I was on my way back with the buffer, Ravage jogged into the workshop with a tired expression.

Scrap!

I froze like a robber caught in the act of stealing and just blinked at him rapidly in panic. Ravage raised an optic ridge as he regarded me with initial indifference, and then his optics found the unusual signs on my body.

"Please don't tell anyone," I whispered, mortified.

Ravage huffed in annoyance and rolled his optics while walking past me towards the back.

"None of my business."

I could be grateful he was a private cat respecting others' private matters too. He probably made the wrong conclusions but it didn't matter if he wouldn't talk about it. Ravage could keep a secret.

Rearview waved in the minicon's way and took the buffer from me with an amused expression.

"Why so nervous about it? They like you."

"It's not that. It's just that they would misunderstand."

"Misunderstand? What exactly?"

"The situation."

"Which is?"

"Not what you think."

"You mean to say this is not what it looks like?" Rearview gestured towards the dark blue scrapes on my finish.

"It is not."

"So these were not caused by Soundwave? Oh my."

The implication of that mortified me even more.

"They are, but not because of what you think!" I whisper-yelled and quickly hopped on the worktable. "Please don't ask any more! Just fix my finish and save me from embarrassment!"

Rearview quietly laughed at my flustered behavior but obliged without making a big deal of it. Thanks to his quick work I could finally regain my inner peace when walking around.

Soundwave said nothing when I returned to him much later to have our daily defense lessons in the training room. I noted the purple scrapes on his chassis and blushed madly. It felt like my efforts were in vain because he couldn't care any less about who saw him like that in here. I felt like he was secretly amused by it.

"Well?" Soundwave tilted his head, arms crossed.

I took a deep intake and nodded.

"We can start now."

He was back to his serious no-nonsense mood immediately. When it came to fighting he had absolute focus. No distractions, no playing around. Just concentration. I appreciated it.

It brought some normalcy into our currently uncertain and messy relationship. While I couldn't be more elated about the sudden development between us, it also terrified me how quickly it escalated. I barely processed the fact that he kissed me again. My spark couldn't take more than that once at a time.

And there was this uncertainty about the future too. Would he really acquire a bond after I'm gone from the past? The possibility constantly nagged me.

I was just practicing throwing a punch, when a sudden headache struck me. My processor froze for a moment, and it felt like all systems shut down for a nanoclick before everything returned to normal. It came and went quickly but I staggered from the intensity of it. What in the Allspark was that?

Soundwave noticed immediately.

"What happened?"

"I don't know," I rubbed the side of my head when I regained balance. "It felt like a headache. Everything went black for a moment."

"Overwork?"

"Perhaps. But I don't think so."

"We should end today's session here then. You are not focused anyway."

"Sorry…" I muttered with a guilty expression.

Soundwave flashed a knowing smirk.

"You are making fun of me aren't you!" I mumbled in mock-offense but it was futile.

"You are the one to overreact."

"I'm not!"

"Your denials are just as amusing as irritating."

"Sorry."

"Stop apologizing. It's equally frustrating," Soundwave stepped to me and drew me close by the waist. "How about a dance?"

"You want to?" I gaped. Last time I thought he didn't like it.

The only response was a nod and I flusteredly ran over the files in my inner storage. I chose a calm one this time. I felt like it fit my need for a slower pace.

"Okay, I think I've got a song for us," I flashed him an honest, excited smile and he mirrored it with his more deliberate one. He never showed a full smile, and the widest he ever did was a smirk. So I adored every single one of his small smiles like treasures.

I rarely performed slow dance, especially with a partner, not even during my trainee days under my carrier, so I improvised. Soundwave took the lead naturally halfway through anyway. It was nice. My mind finally found rest in the calming rhythm and our perfectly matching movements.

Soundwave did not like to be led. It was obvious from the way he moved, the way he spoke, how he carried himself. Uncertainty was something he did not enjoy. Maybe that's why he was so obsessed with collecting information. Maybe that's why he was so frustrated with me.

I was uncertain.

"What is it?" he asked when he noticed me staring at him.

I caught my gaze away instantly and focused on his chest instead.

"Nothing. I just…"

"Stop overthinking. Things are more simple than you think."

His words pulled on the strings of my spark. Were they? Was I the one complicating things? Probably. I always overthink.

I was so lost in thought it took me by surprise when we stopped and he leaned over me, pulling me against his frame.

"Do-not-think," he emphasized each word before he kissed me. It was a slow kiss, giving me just enough time to pull away if I wanted, but I did not. I clung to him, responding with honest delight, basking in the soft tremors running over our frames.

He pulled back for a moment, just a breath away and smirked.

"See?"

I couldn't help a small laugh.

"Yes."

One of his servos traced my spine and I couldn't help but shudder.

"You stopped the music."

"I-I didn't notice…"

A loud whistle threw us out of trance and we both snapped our gazes towards the door where Frenzy stood with Buzzsaw on his shoulder, and Rumble by his side.

Oh scrap.

"Ayy, I knew it! You owe me ten shanix, Rumble!"

The blue minicon handed him the reward with the grumpiest expression.

"Frag you."

"Slag, I should've joined the bet," Buzzsaw noted in disappointment.

Soundwave straightened back to his full height but didn't let go as he silently glared at his minicons.

"You can't be serious!" I flushed madly in embarrassment. They were making bets on our relationship status now?! Didn't they have better things to do?

"Congratulations Boss by the way!" Frenzy winked with a thumbs up. "You too Missy!"

"How long do you suppose my patience lasts?" Soundwave barely spoke, didn't even raise his voice, but the minicons instantly excused themselves with a nervous laugh.

"They are…handful…" I remarked with a flustered smile.

"They like you," Soundwave turned back to me. His optics were serious, yet his tone gentle. "They wouldn't mind if you stayed."

My spark warmed when I realized what he was asking of me. But it actually complicated things. No matter how long I stay, I'll always have a mission in Iacon and will eventually have to go home.

I smiled sadly at the thought. Just when I started enjoying my stay here, reality knocks on my door. I kept ignoring its call.

"I can stay for a little while longer."

Soundwave frowned.

"Do you intend to leave?"

"Sometime. Not now. But sometime. I have unfinished business in Iacon."

My answer didn't please him one bit.

"That relic."

"Yes."

Soundwave said nothing for a few moments as he regarded me thoughtfully.

"We will talk about this later."

There was something on his mind. I could see it. But I did not press the matter. He liked to go at his own pace.

I was about to thank today's session and excuse myself for the night, when he took my servo and nudged me towards the door. I fell into step beside him with a curious expression, interlacing my digits with his.

"Where are we going?"

"Recharge."

"Together?" my spark jumped at the thought. He keeps pushing my limits today and I don't know how much more I can take.

"Recharge is recharge. No need to overthink."

This again! I was pretty sure he knew I would jump to conclusions. Is he playing around with me? He sure looked smug enough.

"Fine," I relented, squeezing his servo slightly. "But no surprises."

"You have my word."

Hearing that dissipated any doubts and nerves I had. It was hard to believe that he would let me recharge next to him. I always took him as a very private mech, one who was hard to crack, and since he never refueled in public, I figured he would be private with recharge too.

Sharing your berth with someone else was sometimes quite a hassle afterall. Especially when one had wings. Like me. I was one small femme compared to him though, so I hoped I would not pose a discomfort.

I put all my trust into Soundwave's words when I lay down next to him. I curled up close but in a respectful distance. It was nearly unbelievable: lying next to him, feeling his warmth, seeing his gaze which lingered on me for a long time, even after I willed myself to shut my optics.

Doubts filled my spark again. The image of his fractured spark kept reappearing in my mind. He shares his berth with me now. But once I'm gone from this timeline? What then? Will he move on eventually? Why did he show me his spark in the future? What did he want to say?

My thoughts were a mess.

I wanted to be with him. I felt safe and content by his side. I wouldn't have anyone else. But what if it's just not meant to be? He will eventually find someone else to have a bond with.

The more my thoughts circled around that fact the more my spark broke. Piece by piece. I can't have him.

Still, I drew closer to his frame, wishing for the future to change. If only I could change it…if only.

Soundwave must have noticed my distress because he put an arm around my waist and pulled me closer.

I could hear the steady pulse of his spark from this close. It was like a soft lullaby. Though recharge came harder than usual, I eventually powered down with a small smile.

---

"You look good!" Frenzy showed a thumbs up.

I stood in Soundwave's workshop and did my best - with Rearview's help - to make myself as different from my future self as possible. So I put on my red half-visor, darkened my colors and biolights and repositioned the small winglets on my arms. It should be alright?

"She looks the same," Rumble snorted.

"Come on, I need all the encouragement! I'm going to meet my future boss and I'm scared!" I whined as I anxiously regarded myself in a mirror.

"He doesn't know you yet so why the fuss?" Laserbeak asked curiously.

"Have you seen him? He is terrifying!"

"I have. He is not too different from most gladiators," Ravage swished his tail with an indifferent expression.

"Yep. And Boss will be with you. Nothing to worry about," Buzzsaw added.

As if on cue, Soundwave appeared from the back, visor on, and stopped to look me over.

"Not much change."

"You too! I've spent hours working on it!"

"It would be more simple to just change alt-mode model," Rumble suggested.

"But I don't want to! I like what I have."

"Then give your best with what you've got! You are pretty anyhow, Missy!" Frenzy patted my arm with an encouraging grin.

"Thank you Frenzy."

"Megatron is an ally. You shouldn't worry this much about him," Soundwave stepped over to me. "I'll stay true to your cover story."

"I know. I know," I shook my head with a sigh and drew closer to him instinctively. "But I can't help it."

"You'll see," Soundwave assured, then he nodded to Ravage and the cat joined our side obediently.

The three of us left towards the arranged meeting place. Ironically, it was one of Leto's offices. A luxurious complex among the sea of middle-caste buildings in one of the better sectors of Kaon.

It was a building raided by Leto's own gladiators and now theirs to rule. Since it was Megatron behind the assault, he saw it fitting to claim his own space in it.

My nerves were skyrocketing as we passed by several skilled fighters roaming about the area. They were all armed. Some of them perked up upon seeing us. I guess Soundwave was well known and respected. I was glad he was the one escorting me here.

The trip inside the building was short. The walls and interior were greatly damaged but it seemed like no one was concerned.

My spark jumped when we stepped into a vast conference room with a circular computer table illuminated by a huge display in the middle.

"Ah, Soundwave!" Megatron's delighted voice filled the air.

Eons go by but he still uses the same tone when he addresses Soundwave. Incredible.

I found myself staring at a very familiar, yet oddly different Megatron. He had blue optics. It didn't fit him. This was the first thing coming to my mind before the panic started setting in.

It has been some time since I last saw him. My failed mission kept reappearing in my processor, even though it was pointless. This Megatron didn't know me. I was no one. He cannot possibly know of my future failures…

"You've finally brought our beloved performer to me," Megatron's blue optics fell on me with great interest.

I stopped beside Soundwave who simply nodded to Megatron's words.

"I haven't got the chance to visit any of your performances, but my fellow gladiators often recite your remarkable free spirited songs. Hearing of your disappearance has caused an uproar among many. I'm pleased to meet you in person, alive, Lightswitch."

Megatron gestured towards me in a friendly manner. I did not expect him to speak in such a respectful manner to me. It took me great effort not to just stand and gape in shock.

"T-the honor is mine. I've not seen any of your matches either, but I've heard of your prowess in the arena. Your words inspire and your poetry is exceptional," I bowed my head respectfully, much to his surprise.

"You speak humbly. An interesting contrast to the raw confidence of your lyrics."

"And you write eloquently, it is unexpected from a gladiator."

Megatron laughed. It was one of his pleased laughs. It meant he was amused.

"I like you. I knew we would share a similar mindset. Come, let me show you around!"

Soundwave, Ravage and I followed him and I noticed that Soundwave took a step back, allowing me to walk beside Megatron while he was watching from behind.

I cast a nervous glance behind my back. Why did I even agree to this?

"This building once housed that energon-sucking criminal leader who called himself Leto. I hear you had your own share of experience with him," Megatron glanced down at me with a curious expression and I nodded timidly.

"Indeed. He threatened me to stop singing songs that encouraged rebellion."

"Too bad he underestimated the impact you've already made. Even if you stopped, the righteous emotions stirred up by your songs couldn't be contained anymore. Revolt was inevitable, but news of your death was like fire on energon. Well done."

"Um, thank you…but I couldn't have done it without Soundwave. He had my back the entire time."

"Ah yes, Soundwave has put great effort into this assault. Leto won't be returning anytime soon. And soon others like him will either follow his example or die by our very servos."

Megatron clenched his fists, grinning as he visualized the death of many more of the criminal gang leaders and slave owners. It didn't sound too bad that he wanted to punish them. Bots like Leto should be put behind bars at the very least.

We passed through hallways, rooms, and everywhere we went I saw armed bots, gladiators and former slaves gathered, chatting away or discussing important matters until Megatron appeared.

All welcomed him with respect and admiration. Megatron seemed to enjoy the attention and power he attained. He was a confident leader figure in the chaos. Who wouldn't admire him?

"I've called you here with a purpose in mind, Lightswitch. We are currently increasing our numbers. There is more fight to come. I want you to put on some performances across the city. A campaign of sorts. A rally for battle. I trust you know what such an audience needs."

His words floored me. I stared up at him with wide optics hidden by my half-visor and with my mouth agape. He wanted me to perform? Megatron wanted me to aid him? It felt like a surreal dream. Unbelievable.

"That's a sudden request…"

"We will ensure that you get access to various stages in bars we already have connections to. Soundwave is going to coordinate the performances and ensure your security with a team loyal to us. We need to gather more brothers who can sympathize with our cause and convince them to join us. Can you work something out for such a tour?"

My thoughts were reeling. Technically, I could. But mentally? Surely not. I wasn't prepared for such a daunting task. Megatron has asked me quite a lot during my work under him, but rallying and raising Decepticon morale wasn't one of them.

Since when have I become a source of inspiration for the forming Decepticons?

"I think…I can?" I replied, too afraid to say no. Risking angering him by refusing his request was out of the question. I did not want to meet his wrath, no matter how different he acted as his past self.

I was digging my own grave, wasn't I?

"Excellent! I trust Soundwave to share the details with you. Now come along and tell our fellow brothers that you are alive and on our side!"

Things were happening way too fast and I absently followed him, greeting gladiators and all kinds of low-caste bots inside the building, who perked up upon seeing me, asking all kinds of questions about how I escaped Leto's assassination attempts. I told them a summarized version of the incinerator incident while wondering why they were so friendly to me. Has the news of my supposed termination changed their view on me so much? They used to like my songs before, but I wasn't respected at all. Admired perhaps, but not respected.

Or was it just the consequence of Megatron's presence? Probably.

Megatron was pleased to see his followers so excited to meet me and although the situation made me flustered, once someone picked up a conversation with me I politely engaged and fell back to smiles and good manners. It worked for me most of the time.

But I couldn't ignore the way Soundwave regarded me through it all. He stood in the back, watching from a distance, yet his attention never left me or Megatron. What was he thinking about? Was he satisfied? Is this what he wanted? I could only assume. But he didn't like me assuming things about him so I tried to focus on pleasing the bots I was chatting with.

Once our little tour was over, I almost sighed in relief. I liked being around people, but this was too much, even for me. Does Megatron never tire?

"Just as I expected," Megatron remarked with a satisfied smirk as we exited the building. I looked up at him curiously. "Your presence will be beneficial to morale."

What have I gotten myself into?!

We stopped as we reached the highway and Megatron offered a servo in a friendly manner.

"Thank you for coming today. I'm expecting to see a spectacular show, Lightswitch."

"I'll do my best, my Lord…" I shook servos and flinched in horror when I realized that I've called him on his future title. It was pure instinct!

Megatron laughed in amusement.

"Haha, you will make a fine asset to our cause!"

The future warlord nodded to Soundwave with respect, then turned around and left with a wave.

"Until next time!"

Bewildered didn't describe the way I felt but that's the closest phrase expressing my whirling feelings.

Soundwave stepped close to me and tilted his head.

"Well?"

"He is…still as intimidating as I remember," I mumbled, trying to get myself together.

Soundwave acknowledged my opinion with a nod. There was something about his posture though, the stiffness in his movements, it didn't escape my attention. Why was he so tense?

We headed back to the workshop in our alt-modes and Rearview gaped upon hearing the story.

"Haven't you put yourself in enough danger already? Are you searching for a way to die on purpose?"

Rearview wasn't happy to hear that Soundwave involved me in his operations once again.

"It will be just a few more performances. It's….I can do it."

"Singing rebellious songs in a bar and rallying bots for a movement are two entirely different things, Mercy," Rearview shook his head. "If you do this now, you'll become a part of it. With no way back!"

His words struck me. True. I was about to willingly aid the Decepticon movement coming to life. A cause I criticized in the future. Ideals I did not agree with fully.

I took my half-visor off and subspaced it with a troubled frown.

My views have changed a lot ever since I got to know Kaon and past-Soundwave. Anyone living here would wish to fight their way out, by any means possible. I did encourage bots to fight for themselves afterall. My compassionate side felt for them. Yet my righteous side did not, because I knew that their morality is twisted.

I looked at Soundwave, who saw the conflict in my optics and beckoned me towards the back.

I excused myself and left Rearview to follow Soundwave downstairs. I was fidgeting with my digits, lost in thoughts when he led me to the energon storage room and poured me a glass of energon and then himself.

"Conflicted?"

"Yes…I'm not sure this is what I want," I rubbed my forehead and released a deep sigh. Oh Solus, help me now…

"Why?"

"Because I know where this leads! This movement is the birth of the Decepticons. They will do many horrible things! And while I do want all bots to be free and equal, it can't be at the cost of such brutality!"

Soundwave left the glasses on the table and turned to me fully.

"What was the purpose of your songs then?"

"What…?"

"Why did you encourage the oppressed to fight for themselves?"

"I-I…"

"Why do you sing of fights, choices and a coming change if you are afraid of them?"

My thoughts were reeling. His questions echoed in my mind with a startling revelation. Like a broken record. Why? Yes, why?

Soundwave's tentacles circled around my torso and I gasped as he pulled me close and towered over me with his broad frame. I stared up in silence, speechless.

"You encouraged them to fight for themselves. Now they do. How do you imagine a battle for life goes? When it comes to life or death matches, someone has to die. It is the way of life. It's no one's fault. We go into battle knowing that our spark is on the line. It's a choice, Mercy. They have made their choice. They would rather die than continue living like this."

I saw my reflection in his visor. His tentacles gripped my sides by force and I grasped them out of instinct, optics wide.

Was he trying to make me choose? Was this a test? Was he concerned I was not on his side?

"Soundwave, I…" I couldn't find the right words.

I cast my optics down. What could I say? Why was this decision tearing me apart on the inside? It was right and wrong at the same time.

"I have spent a lifetime trying to make Cybertron a better place," he continued, voice low and frustrated, "Many have hindered me and many have died aiding me. Now I have someone who can make my plans become reality. Megatronus not only speaks but acts on his words. This movement can be a start of infinite possibilities. Even if it results in a war, I don't care. I want change and I will have change. It has cost me too much already to back down now."

Guilt spread in my spark. I do tend to forget that most of the bots living here have nothing to lose, except their lives. They put it all on the line because they are ready to sacrifice themselves for change. Soundwave believed in change. He fought for it. He would never back down.

I shouldn't be running either. Is it right, is it wrong? Does it really matter when all you can do is roll the dice and hope for the best?

We can help Cybertron recuperate in the future. We will figure something out to fix the wrongdoings. Somehow, it will have to be alright.

I glanced up at him and raised my servos to cup his face, bringing his head down to my level. He let me. His intense stare was on me through it all, hidden behind his mask.

I made up my mind. Even if I can't follow Megatron, I would follow Soundwave to death. I will figure out the rest later.

I planted a small kiss on his visor and traced the side of his face gently.

"If it helps you achieve what you want, I will do anything. Is that okay?"

Soundwave replied by hefting me up onto the table's surface and I instinctively grasped his shoulders for support. I found myself sitting between his arms. They caged me from both sides and his waist came between my thighs.

His forehead touched mine and our chests met as he drew me closer by a servo placed on my back.

"Why are you so willing to put your life in my grasp?"

His question ran deeper than the surface. I could feel his invisible gaze searching for mine. I traced the edge of his faceplate with a digit, gathering courage to answer. My frame quietly trembled.

"Because I love you. And I want to live in whatever world you wish to create because I know you want it to be a free one. That is enough for me."

Soundwave withdrew slightly, only a little to see me fully. I rested my servos on his shoulders, waiting. Then he spoke with a shake of his head:

"I wish I could create a world you desire. It would be an ideal one. One that is too perfect to exist, yet if I had a choice, I would live in it rather than the one I envision."

Surprise was written all over my face so he continued:

"But since the world is the way it is, we should strive to make the most of it from what we have."

I nodded in understanding and a small smile curled at the corner of my mouth.

"True."

It felt like a new kind of understanding formed between us. Our agreement gave my spark some rest. And also a willingness to shoulder what was to come.

We stayed like that for a long while. He had me take his visor off and once it was down, he closed the distance between us. The more kisses were shared and the more heated the touches became, the lower I was bent until I was flat against the table's surface.

The two glasses of energon were left forgotten just in an arm's distance.

---

There were five bars pinpointed. Five nights scheduled to perform. Soundwave and six selected bots from Megatron's followers secured the chosen place on the morning of each performance. I never saw Soundwave in the crowd but I knew he was around somewhere, hidden, watching.

The crowd was notified in advance that the infamous Lightswitch was coming, so the place was full each night by the time I stepped on stage. Anticipation lingered in the air. I could feel it, touch it.

I needed to live up to great expectations. So I brought my best songs. Inspiring ones, powerful ones. My choreography was raw and passionate. I needed to convey great emotions to move them.

And move they did.

By the third performance the crowd grew so large I had to leave the bar and take the stage to the roof so everyone could hear and see. They clapped along, stomping their pedes. They sang along to the songs that moved them the most. The nights turned wild. Any authority or legal force was driven away the moment they arrived.

The bots of Kaon were getting drunk on the power their sheer growing numbers granted them. They chanted Megatronus' name and my lyrics on the streets. It was like a fever dream.

The impossibly large crowd cheered wildly when I appeared on stage at the fifth performance. It became so violent that Soundwave had to bodily remove me from the scene once my part was over. I clung to him as we broke through the crowd within the protective circle of his selected team and he held me close with a secure arm.

I knew he wouldn't let any harm come to me, but harm wasn't really what I needed to fear. Bots were beginning to recognize me, even from a distance. It was hard to take a step without being swarmed by admirers or enthusiastic groups waiting to touch me.

Soundwave doubled the security of his workshop over the course of these five days for this very reason. Should anyone realize that I was in there, they would stand by the door all day until I showed up.

"What has gotten into them…" I mumbled once we were back, alone, inside the security of his home. "They grow crazier by the day."

Soundwave came up to me and leaned close, his servos finding my waist.

"They taste freedom for the first time. It's like high-grade. Once they are intoxicated, nothing can stop them. This is the power of a crowd without shackles."

I looked up at him in wonder.

"I can barely believe I managed to drive them to this state…"

"Mercy," his grip tightened on me and his face leaned closer with an intense expression. I felt the soft rev of his engine rumble through his chest. "You have no idea what effect you have on people."

I stared, optics wide, spark hammering in a quickening pace.

He pushed me against the wall and claimed my mouth. My servos went around his neck immediately on instinct. My cooling fans kicked in as his engine revved louder. The way he touched me sent me up in flames.

---

The last performance, the unofficial sixth, took place near the great pyramid and the large square in front of the arenas. Megatron wanted one last gathering, and it seemed like bots didn't really need more encouragement to come. Shouts and chants filled the air. Weapons and fists were raised into the air. The atmosphere was electrifying. But there were still many more coming.

There was a platform. Many have spoken so far, listing all the wrongdoings of their superiors and the higher castes. The multiplying crowd agreed with booming voices.

The plan was to gather as many bots here as possible then rile them up enough to start them marching outside and Megatron would take the lead as they raided the higher caste sectors and all criminal headquarters to finish off whoever crossed their paths.

Soundwave would be part of the assault after his job with hacking the Communications Grid was done. He assured me that Frenzy and Ravage would escort me back home to safety once my role was over.

I've been nervous before, and seeing this wild mass ready for murder scared me even more. I've already stopped questioning the rights and wrongs of this whole ordeal, but the sheer power this army of angry low-caste bots represented made me shudder in awe.

Megatron's influence truly was magnificent in its own right. I couldn't blame the crowd for following him blindly.

"Your position?" Soundwave asked over comm-link.

"I'm at the back. Someone is speaking at the moment."

"Good. I'll prepare the stage for you in a few seconds. Be prepared."

"Soundwave…"

"Yes?"

"Will you be watching?"

"The entirety of Kaon will be watching."

My mouth curled downwards immediately. That wasn't the answer I was hoping for.

"Of course I will," he assured me after my lengthy silence.

"Thank you," I couldn't hold back a smile. He would always relent if he sensed I was nervous.

The speaker was rewarded with applause, whistles and loud shouts of agreement. It was my turn. My spark quivered.

I took a deep intake and rolled my shoulders. For Kaon, and for Soundwave, I will do my best.

My sudden appearance caused an uproar. The crowd greeted me loudly.

I didn't prepare a speech, yet I was swayed by the atmosphere and the anticipation. The pressure felt like a mountain crushing me down.

"In remembrance of those who have fallen to oppression, we shall right the wrongs," I said, voice echoing through the air, and I closed my optics, raising a servo high.

Drums resounded through the place, the start of the opening piece I've prepared.

"~For the beat and the broken, for the lost and forsaken, let us never surrender! May we rise unto the call!~" I started with a harsh voice splitting the air, and all attention was on me immediately.

"~Chains that we are breaking, fate that we are awaiting, we rise unto the call!~"

Music filled the square and I saw screens lit up in the distance, broadcasting. Soundwave hacked into the Communications Grid. It won't last long so I had to make my performance short but powerful.

"~For the glory and the fall!~" the volume shook the ground. Or so I thought until I heard the claps and the shouts.

"For the glory and the fall!" the crowd echoed back in unity. A chill ran down my spine.

"~For the beat and the broken, for the lost and forsaken, let us never surrender! May we rise unto the call!~" the volume grew louder. More bots from all around the coliseums have gathered around the platform.

They heard the call.

The voices grew stronger and I swirled one more time to the main line of the song, then stopped and everything went silent.

It was a momentary pause. The crowd was twice the size when I looked up again. Their sheer number emboldened me.

Then the noise returned with an unexpected intensity. They carried on the song themselves as if it had never ended.

"FOR THE GLORY AND THE FALL!" they repeated, shouted, howled all over and over again.

The restless crowd chanted as one person. My spark beat erratically. I let the crowd carry on as I slowly backed out of sight when I saw Megatron emerge from the shadows.

I bowed my head and let him take the center.

My role was over.

The thrill made me dizzy. Megatron spoke up but I barely heard him through the frenzy of my mind. I retreated from the platform but stopped at the base to watch as my future warlord called upon his brethren.

It was the most empowering sight I've ever seen.

Minutes later bots started marching in the direction their chief gladiators called them. The mass moved, chanting, and long after Megatron stepped down they were still singing with raised weapons and stomping pedes.

The broadcast was cut but the damage was done. The angry low-caste of Kaon was on the move now. And they thirsted for energon. They would bring justice for the crimes committed against them.

We did it. And this was just the start.

I ran from the platform to where Frenzy and Ravage awaited, but my legs were shaking. Or was it the ground? I couldn't tell. The excitement and the thrill still made my head dizzy.

Reaching them, relief washed over me and I fell to my knees with a smile, tears entering my optics.

"I did well?"

"Are you kidding? The crowd is wild!" Frenzy threw his servos up with a wide grin. "I wanna go with them too!"

Ravage came to my side and poked my shoulder with his nose.

"Are you alright?"

"Yes, yes…" I wiped my optics and laughed. I didn't think I could make it for real. And here I was, job done and done well. I wanted to cry my heart out because a mountain was lifted off my shoulders.

"Let's go then, we have to get out of here before it turns into a bloodbath," Ravage nudged me and I nodded, moving to stand again but pain struck my head.

Again. It was like last time. Except it was stronger. I was instantly paralyzed.

"Missy? Hey, Mercy! What's wrong?" Frenzy caught me when I fell forward. My optics were visibly glitching and my inner systems screamed that something was wrong.

I saw my inner chronometer becoming a wild swirl of numbers until it completely glitched out and my vision went blank.

I don't know what happened afterwards, but I awoke in Soundwave's workshop under Rearview's worried watch.

"By Primus! We thought you were sabotaged!" Frenzy shook my shoulder when he saw me come online. "Talk to us! Mercy!"

"Frenzy? Ugh…" I touched my forehead. My chronometer was still glitching. It irked my other systems as well as my concentration.

"There is a bug in your system," Rearview told me with a frown. "It's not a virus, but it acts like one. For some reason it attacked your chronometer. A glitch like that shouldn't be causing you pain, merely some discomfort. How are you feeling now?"

"Disoriented," I answered, closing my optics again. The glitching in my head was making me dizzy.

"Does it hurt?"

"No…not anymore."

"Ravage said you were paralyzed."

"I-I don't know…it just came. Suddenly. Like a seizure."

Ravage propped his paws up on the table and regarded me in concern.

"This isn't the first time it happened."

"How do you know?" I blinked at him in surprise.

"I always keep an optic on you."

Maybe it's best if I don't press the question further. I merely nodded and buried my face into my servos.

"What's wrong with me…?"

"Don't die on us, Missy! You are too young!" Frenzy whined as he continued to shake my shoulder.

"Give her some rest already!" Rearview reprimanded him with a whack to the head.

"Ouch!"

"We will figure out what's wrong soon enough," the medic turned towards the displays. I just noticed that my head was connected to some kind of equipment through various cables.

"What's this?" I inquired.

"I'm monitoring your mind activity. Any anomalies will be recorded and analyzed. This is no medical machinery, but it's close enough."

I didn't want to know what it's true purpose was if it wasn't medical equipment so I stayed quiet and laid my head back down.

"I will put you in stasis for the time being," Rearview announced.

"Wake me when Soundwave arrives, will you?"

Rearview rolled his optics with a small smile.

"I will."

---

Soundwave got back three days later. In the meanwhile, the entirety of Kaon was turned upside down. The gladiators got the upper hand, made almost all high caste bots flee or die and killed hundreds of slave owners.

The movement was in full swing and Soundwave couldn't stay for long because he was needed by Megatron's side but upon seeing me lying in stasis on the worktable while connected to his weird machinery, he reconsidered.

"What happened?" I heard him ask as I slowly awoke from my three day long stasis.

"Thanks to a sudden processor ache after her performance, I found a nasty bug in her system," Rearview explained and helped me sit up.

I groaned, rubbing my head. My chronometer wasn't glitching anymore but showed the same numbers it used to before. The date of the day, hour, minute and second of my arrival from the future.

"I had her in stasis for while you were gone and analyzed the data of her mind activity. I haven't seen a glitch like this before, but I have a theory."

Soundwave nodded, urging Rearview to continue.

"It's not sabotage, not a virus and I can confidently say it has nothing to do with any outside source. It's self-inflicted."

"Self-inflicted?" Frenzy perked up from beside his master. "How can that be?"

"My theory is, since it's her chronometer that is acting out of order, that her time-travel has caused some sort of damage. What's the date, Mercy?"

"I don't know…I haven't been able to synchronize with the past timeline. My chronometer is stuck at the exact date I arrived. Well, until now that is."

"See? Her chronometer is stuck with the future date since it cannot synchronize with our timeline."

"But why is it glitching now if she has been fine for months?" Frenzy frowned in thought.

"I believe there must be a limit," Rearview rubbed his forehead with a sigh.

"A limit?" I echoed.

"The more time you spend here the more you strain your system. You cannot exist stuck in a moment of time."

"But-but I do feel the time going? I can interact with you afterall. A week is a week, a day is a day, an hour is an hour."

"Yes. But you have no inner timing. There is a difference."

We argued about possible other theories, but eventually cycled back to Rearview's conclusions. Soundwave was silent through it all, and it only made me more anxious.

My thoughts were reeling now. So this means I have a time limit for my stay in the past? How much longer until I start having more seizures? Will I eventually go mad?

"My main point is, you are a guest from the future. And correct me if I'm wrong, but there is another you currently living somewhere on Cybertron, right?"

Oh. Now I understand. Time won't accept two me in the same timeline. One of us has to be expelled. And since I'm the guest, I will be the one who has to go.

Oh Solus.

"Yes. In Praxus," I buried my face in my servos. "Why didn't I think of that? Primus…"

"Wait, wait, there are two of you?!" Frenzy pointed in my direction in shock. "What the frag! That's creepy!"

"Anyhow, you shouldn't meet your past self at any cost. I don't know how time-travel works but I have an ominous feeling just thinking about the implications…" Rearview concluded.

"I won't. I….I will go back to Iacon and fix everything," I lowered my servos and raised my optics, trying to search for Soundwave's gaze. "I have to go."

Silence fell on the room until Frenzy broke it.

"What? Wait, no! Missy, I thought you're gonna stay! Things were just getting good…!"

"I know," I pressed my mouth into a thin line, fighting the urge to cry. "I know and I'm sorry, but it's inevitable. Soundwave knew all along."

Frenzy snapped towards his master.

"You knew, Boss?!"

Soundwave barely spared him a glance. His attention was on me. Then he stepped back and deployed the rest of his minicons who scattered as soon as they were free.

"Mercy: downstairs," Soundwave ordered and turned sharply.

"Uh-oh…" Frenzy squeaked. "He is not in a good mood."

I hopped off the worktable in concern and ran to catch up with him on his way downstairs.

Rearview stopped Frenzy who was about to follow us. The medic simply shook his head and the minicon watched us go with a troubled expression.

Soundwave led us to the main control room and the doors shut behind us. The screens were showing all kinds of information and footage from various parts of Kaon and beyond. I've never ventured in here since the doors were always locked. The few glimpses I've had so far were during his exits and entrances. Not much. I wasn't really interested either. I didn't want to be nosy.

The fact that he brought me in here meant this won't be just a simple talk.

"Soundwave?"

He turned towards me and I could feel the tension in his frame even from this distance. I couldn't see his gaze but I had a guess he was glaring at me.

"The relic you seek. It's the source of the problem, isn't it?"

"Yes. It brought me here. I have to find it and it will take me home. Back to my timeline. Assuming I can make it work somehow. Last time it activated on its own and it was a mere accident it sent me here in the past."

"Where in Iacon is it located?"

"The Hall of Records."

Soundwave turned towards the computers and typed in something. An image of the mentioned building popped up on the displays with plenty of information surrounding it.

"Which sector of the building?"

"I'm not sure….I just got teleported inside. I was in an office of some sorts. It housed a library of files. There was a strange book on one of the tables and I saw a quill beside it. That's all I remember. I escaped through the window once an old mech came in and started interrogating me."

"What did he look like?"

"Well….he looked old. He was mainly purple except for his white beard. He also wore a cape."

Soundwave thought for a moment, then typed again and a profile picture popped up. The old mech I saw stared back at me from the screen.

"Alpha Trion. Overseer of the Hall of Records," Soundwave clarified. "No surprise."

"You know him?"

"He used to work closely with the Council until he became a recluse."

"Oh…so it's true that you've been a Council member?"

"Who told you?" Soundwave tilted his head.

"Rearview."

"It is true."

"How long have you been…?"

"I was placed in the Council by the Quintessons and I left on my own accord. I don't wish to speak more about it. It's all history."

The Quintessons? I've learned of them only from textbooks since I was created at the end of the Golden Age. The Quintesson invasion was eons ago! Even in the past timeline.

How old is Soundwave actually?

He turned back to the screens and typed until a map of the building came into view with a sector highlighted on it.

"Alpha Trion has a main office in the eastern sector of the building. It's not heavily guarded but it's constantly monitored by the Elite Guard. Any disturbances would alert the Guard and they would dispatch their soldiers in no time to protect Alpha Trion."

"I'm afraid they have strengthened the security since my last visit. And there is a chance the relic is no longer in the office."

"If it belongs to Alpha Trion, it will be stored close to him. I can hack into their database for long enough to figure out where it's kept. However, once I locate it, you'll have to secure it in a short time before the Guard can react."

"You mean, you will help me?" I gaped.

"Without the relic, you will continue to experience the side-effects of time travel, won't you? I'll put a stop to it."

His words relieved and worried me at the same time. He was the best mech to help me out, yet something felt off.

"I'm grateful. I don't think I would be able to break in there alone."

Soundwave nodded and we spent the rest of the day mapping out a detailed plan. He seemed quite knowledgeable in everything concerning Iacon's security protocols and warned me of all threats that might pose danger in the building or around it. He talked in a serious manner, and I wondered what was going on in his head right now, because he was just too tense through it all. Something was definitely off.

"Soundwave?" I glanced up from the display-table with a concerned expression.

He looked up as well but didn't answer.

"What's wrong?"

There was more silence until he straightened and spoke up again:

"You shouldn't go."

"Why do you say that? I don't really have a choice."

"It's too dangerous. Once you are inside I cannot help you from here."

"I'll try to be careful. I don't intend to fail," I flashed a reassuring smile but didn't seem to convince him.

"You are weak. You're not prepared. You get injured easily."

"Uh…true, but…" my smile fell immediately. Was he saying this because he was worried I would fail?

"You shouldn't go," he repeated.

"I have to, Soundwave. You know that too," I pressed. I wasn't any less happier than he was, but it had to be done. Either this or I'm going to be expelled by the timeline which I don't want to know how is going to happen.

Soundwave came around the display-table and walked over to me. I stared up at him and saw my reflection on his visor.

"Soundwave?"

"Don't go."

It sounded like an order and a plea at the same time but it only made me more frustrated. Surely he understood the weight of the situation? Why was he asking me such a thing when it would only lead to my eventual death?

"These unpredictable seizures will only intensify if I don't go."

"There should be a cure."

"Two me cannot exist long in the same timeline. There is no cure. I have to go back to the future. It's…it's not a big deal. We will meet again, on the Nemesis."

"How long will it take?"

His question halted my swirling thoughts.

"Eons…probably," I cast my optics down. For him, it will take eons. For me, it will be but a moment and I can see him again. The future him.

Oh, how much I want to ask him! Tons of questions.

Soundwave shook his head. He sounded frustrated when he spoke.

"And you expect me to wait?"

"Well, is there anything we can do? You will have your servos full with the war. I'll be a Neutral who leaves Cybertron as soon as the conflict spreads all over the planet. We won't meet until we both reach Earth."

"I can search for you. Finding you in Praxus shouldn't be difficult."

"No!" I surprised myself with how quickly I responded. "My past self doesn't know you, Soundwave. That Mercy is not me yet."

His silence was tense and long.

"Stay."

It felt like a battle I couldn't win. He was determined. As if he didn't want to understand on purpose. Leaving like this was hard enough in itself but now he was making it even more difficult. It made my spark quiver. Such struggle for nothing. After we part, all of this will be nothing but a fever dream. He will focus on more important things, and eventually he is going to find that person who will bond with him.

I have nothing to do here anymore. My spark may cry but reality cannot be ignored any longer. Maybe one day I can think back on this as a happy moment in my life. Getting to know him, training with him, dancing with him, being held by him…

But Soundwave wanted me to stay. I wanted to stay too.

It just broke my spark all over again. I cast my optics down, trying to force steadiness in my voice.

"We will meet again, Soundwave. In the future."

"Promise me," he stepped closer so he was directly in front of me and I had to bend my neck to look up.

"I promise."

And I did mean it.

"Swear to me," he raised a servo and jabbed a digit against my chestplate. "On your spark."

A soft tremor ran through my frame. I blinked at him with wide optics, then down at the place he was pointing at. Did he mean…?

This felt like a familiar situation. But he wasn't asking nicely now. He was demanding it. I could only assume what he was thinking at the moment. From his perspective, he had no guarantee that everything would happen as I say. He had to blindly trust me. I knew he didn't value words and only believed in one's actions. The only way to pacify him was to prove.

So I let my chestplates unfold, revealing the sparkchamber hidden beneath. The pale green light of my hammering spark shone through, illuminating his and my features. A sacred light. He told me himself that I shouldn't bare it to anyone recklessly.

He wasn't just anyone though.

I raised my servos, creating a frame around the shape of my spark as I recited, optics still on his visor, searching for his invisible gaze:

"I swear by the light of my spark, that what I've said is true. The two of us will meet on Earth, on the ship called Nemesis. We will be reunited once again."

I looked for a reaction but he didn't respond. I lowered my servos.

"Soundwave?" I asked quietly, hoping that I'd finally gotten through.

He surprised me when he raised a servo again. I did not expect it - but it shouldn't have been startling since he moved slowly - when his digits traced over the silver brim of my sparkchamber. The touch was soft, but even the faint contact caused an electric jolt, resulting in a gasp and a quiver of my whole frame.

"You bare your spark to me so readily, yet you refuse to interface with me," he leaned closer, his voice low.

I could only stare, flustered, optics wide, my inner heat rising.

"Soundwave…" my voice was a mere whisper. He traced a digit along the seams and I swayed on my pedes, gravitating towards him as if he was pulling by a magnet.

"I want a seal on your vow, Mercy," he drew back slightly.

His servo barely left my sparkchamber when his own chestplates moved aside, revealing a dark interior and a carefully hidden gray chamber with a bright purple spark in it - no other colors, just his. The action itself made a surge of emotions rush through me. My own spark jumped in shock, anticipation, fear and excitement.

I didn't want to believe that this was happening. I couldn't process the fact that he opened up for me. The past-him. The one who doubted my every word in the beginning, and who now wanted me to stay more than anything.

Could it be? Was it possible that the fracture bond I've seen in the future was me? Even the thought was so overwhelming it completely halted my processor.

I caught my optics back and forth between the light of his life-force and his visor where I knew his optics were.

My spark ached for his. It was a kind of feeling that couldn't be described. A longing, a wish, a need. The pull towards him was stronger than any desire I've felt before. It was frightening.

A sudden wave of fear rushed through me, making me shield my spark with a servo, uncertainty entering my optics as I searched him for answers.

"Why? A-are you sure? Joining our sparks cannot be undone…"

"You doubt me again."

"Because this is sudden! You proposed out of nowhere!" I cried out in frustration. Why was he making me feel such turbulent emotions? He had no idea what this whole proposal was doing to me. I wasn't ready. I needed a moment to think.

"My intentions are true," he said calmly. But his spark pulsed with a speedy rhythm, betraying the forced steadiness in his voice. "If you truly meant everything you've said so far, then I want proof. And I want your spark. I can't stand the thought of someone else having a chance to own it."

Shocked, I stood there speechless. His words were making my spark hurt more. My thoughts were reeling and my frame trembled. Was this how he truly felt? I knew he was attracted to me, it was evident, but did he love me really? For who I was?

"I could wait, but you are setting time limits. If you truly want to leave, give me your spark before you go."

My optics were filled with tears forming. So it was me who made him desperate. The reason why he was so frustrated. I should've realized sooner what he was going through instead of focusing on my own fears and insecurities.

Still, I had to know.

"Tell me why," I whispered, ignoring the pull of my spark with shaking servos. "Why me?"

Soundwave was silently regarding me for a few moments, then relented with a small sigh.

"Because you are irresistible. Your voice haunts me. I keep seeing you when you are not there. Because you believe in a world that's so perfect it cannot possibly exist. Because you are ready to sacrifice yourself for another. Your deceptive appearance hides a courageous spark."

Tear droplets stained my chassis. My spark was breaking all over again, but not of sadness. He had no idea how much these words meant to me. I wiped my optics helplessly, shaken and touched at the same time.

"Thank you…for telling me," I hiccupped and I felt him move closer, bringing a servo to pull mine away from my face. I blinked at him and offered a teary smile.

"What about you?" Soundwave tilted his head. It seemed like he wanted to hear an equal admission from me. I smiled and reached for his visor. He let me gently remove it and once his face was visible I met a knowing smile.

He was acting smug when I was about to tell him the reason why I loved him! He was impossible!

I shook my head with a chuckle.

"Because you make me feel safe, secure. Your strength never ceases to amaze me. You are loyal to your word and to those you cherish. You are caring even when your actions seem harsh. You hold on to your principles and you live by them. And because you fight for a better world for all of us. When you make a decision you are devoted. I think I love that part of you the most."

Soundwave's smirk softened a fraction.

"You know this about me, yet you keep doubting me."

"Not anymore," I smiled honestly and kindly, "If you wish to have my spark now, it's all yours. Always has been."

Something changed in his expression. There was a hint of surprise, then the softness was gone, and instead he looked back at me with raw want.

A wave of heat ran over my circuits. My spark felt a strong tug towards him. Exposed for so long, it starved for the other spark's light.

I was ready.

A beeping noise snapped us out of the moment. We both glanced in the direction of the sound and saw the displays on the table blink with a sign of incoming messages. Megatron's profile picture popped up next to them.

Soundwave's chestplates shifted back on impulse as he turned towards the messages and stepped to the table. I folded back too, disappointed and confused, but also curious.

"Megatronus asks for my assistance. It's urgent," Soundwave turned his gaze towards me, a conflict evident in his features.

I forced an understanding smile.

"I guess you have to hurry then?"

"I don't know when I'll be back."

I knew what he meant by that. There are priorities, and right now Megatron needed him. For an undefined time. Well, we can wait a little longer at this point, can't we? I could stay here and wait until he comes back.

"I understand. I'll be waiting," I flashed a smile, reaching a servo out and gently took his. I felt his digits interlace with mine as Soundwave fully turned towards me.

"Don't do anything reckless while I'm away."

I laughed at the dark seriousness of his tone and his expression softened by a fraction.

---

The headaches were getting worse. And the pain was spreading.

It has been a week since Soundwave left in a hurry, leaving me in Rearview's care and under Ravage's supervision. The cat was always by my side when I was awake and the medic constantly monitored my data when I was in stasis. The days became a blur. A constant cycle of falling in and out of consciousness.

But I had to wait. Soundwave promised to be back as soon as possible. While I did believe him, I knew that he couldn't control his circumstances all the time. Especially now. Kaon was a mess, to say the least. I've been watching the news and the city was raging from the lowest caste to the highest. Megatron's army grew by the day and Soundwave was the one supervising them. The responsibility on his shoulders was unimaginable.

I worried for him. I wished I could reach out to him, but I also knew I would only be a distraction. He kept me hidden for a reason. I shouldn't jeopardize my position recklessly just because I couldn't control my emotions.

It was still hard to process everything that happened between us. Starting from the fact that Soundwave wanted me as his bondmate. But it was the following implications which floored me the most, because all of this pointed to one single conclusion regarding the future: Soundwave has been waiting for me to recognize him all this time during our time on the Nemesis. He was waiting patiently, and just as promised, I eventually appeared. But my future self didn't know him. I didn't share our history, our memories, our bond.

I had no idea what he had possibly gone through during those months, but learning of my own struggles here with his past-self, I could somewhat imagine.

What a shock it must have been. To see me look at him like he was a stranger. To ask him questions I was supposed to know the answers for. To share the same activities yet miss the intimacy we should have had. To bare my spark to him and have no trace of his bond with me whatsoever. And then there was Laserbeak's frustration with me….all making sense now.

Every single one of our future interactions have gained a new meaning. I saw them in a new light.

I probably broke Soundwave's spark again and again, with each and every action I made in our future. The future I just made a promise on. I swore to him that we will be reunited. But when we eventually met I was nothing but a shell he struggled to recognize.

I cried, hidden in the depth of my room, when the realization hit me. Oh how much I wished to go back now! To find him on the ship, hug him, kiss him, tell him I was sorry and that I know everything now. That I won't be forgetting anything from now on. That he can have me any way he wants and I won't ever stop him anymore.

Ravage nudged my shoulder with his nose and I snapped my gaze up, startled. I didn't know he was in here.

"He is alright," the cat said. Was he trying to comfort me?

"I know. I just…" I wiped my optics with a servo. "I just want to be good to him. And I'm not doing a good job."

Ravage raised an optic ridge in doubt.

"You are. He is content when he is with you."

"Is he really?"

"I would know," Ravage huffed and lay down next to me with his paws buried under his body. It was cute.

"Hey Ravage," I shuffled closer after a few minutes of silence and blinked at him with a silent question in my optics.

The minicon glared at me, knowing full well what I was playing at, but then just closed his optics and grunted.

"Fine. Just this once."

Beaming, I raised a servo and gently rubbed the top of his head. His initial reluctance melted away in a few minutes and a soft purr rumbled through his chest. I smiled down at him affectionately. He was one tough minicon, and he masked his emotions well. But he had a caring spark beneath all that facade too. Just like his master.

I fell asleep next to him until he woke me when he stood a few hours later. There was an unspoken question in my gaze when I looked at him through hazy optics.

"Boss is back," he said and dashed out of the room without turning back.

My spark jumped in joy. Soundwave was back! All sleepiness gone, I rose and hurried out. It felt like he was gone for ages.

I ran into him on his way down from upstairs. Just seeing his familiar figure sent relief and delight over my circuits. I jumped at him without a single thought, halting him in his steps and he caught me.

"Finally! You are back!" I giggled and Soundwave hefted me up, holding me close so that I could lean on him as I circled my arms around his neck.

"I can stay for only two solar cycles," he said, removing his visor with one servo while balancing me with the other easily.

I reached for his face immediately, drawing his gaze up to me with a digit guiding his chin.

"Then let's make the most of it."

I planted a chaste kiss on his lips and I heard him rev his engine. It sent a tremor through his frame and over me. A beautiful sound. It seems like he has been waiting to get back as much as I did.

"We are gonna, uh, wait here then," Frenzy and Rumble waved from the top of the stairs with a nervous laugh and hurried back to the workshop with the other minicons in tow.

Soundwave didn't even spare them a glance. He carried me deeper into his house and I was too busy kissing him to notice that he brought me to his room. I've slept next to him a handful of times now, yet it was still startlingly new that he let me into his private quarters. It was a sign of his trust.

He bent his frame and I was lowered until my back met the berth's surface. My spark hammered in anticipation, excitement and a small hint of fear of the unknown. It would be foolish to deny that I was nervous. Even if it was Soundwave, the one I cherished and wanted to share my spark with, the realization that we are going to be inseparable after this made me anxious.

"Have you not changed your mind?" Soundwave asked, his optics were serious and resolute. He had both servos flat against the berth's surface at my sides, frame aligned with mine. Just a small distance and our chests would meet.

My frame trembled. But it was a good kind. The one of excitement and want.

"I haven't."

"You've changed your colors back," he remarked, optics scanning over my black and white colors with jade accents and biolights. My original color scheme.

I blushed instantly.

"I wanted to be my truest self. For you."

My voice was small. I did not expect to get so timid, yet I couldn't help it. My circuits were on fire, heat radiated through my chassis relentlessly, and my spark jumped slightly when I let the plates covering it shift aside, layer by layer. It was all his. The soft light reflected back from his armor, and I liked the way it colored him.

Soundwave's chest unfolded with a series of clicks in response and the beauty of his spark was revealed to me once again. Such a bright orb. I could barely believe he was willing to share it with me.

I felt a little sting in my spark. Then another one. The closer our chests got to each other the more my spark reacted. It felt like the mutual pull created a magnetic field. My optics widened when a small electric lightning shot across the distance, from one spark to the other, trying to form a connection. My spark pulsed faster, strange flashes occurring as it attempted to recognize the approaching other life-force. I had no idea it would feel like this. It wasn't really painful, but it most certainly stung at first.

All the biolights on Soundwave's body pulsed in sync with his spark. I could only imagine that mine did the same. As the distance was closed between our chests, his spark entered mine.

It wasn't painful, it didn't hurt, but my whole body jerked. My vision got hazy and I felt like I've disconnected from reality for the following moments. It was all a blur. A high-speed montage of memories, emotions, and data. They flooded my senses. Moments of Soundwave's life flashed across my processor, bots he has met, battles he has fought, all from his perspective. My body seized, feeling the pain he physically felt over the many cycles of his life. Then it all eased and faded away and I faintly recognized the minicons through the array bond* they shared. Soundwave cherished them. I also recognized his immense respect and hope for Megatron. And then it hit me when among all the confusion I touched upon his feelings for me. Admiration, protectiveness, possessiveness, affection. An obsession.

Very different from how I loved him. Yet my spark accepted it all unconditionally.

Tremors shook me. Faintly, I felt my body like it was a distant reality. I realized I was holding onto his shoulders with an iron grip. Blinking the haze away, I searched for his optics and once I found his gaze, I was instantly locked in another trance.

Soundwave leaned forward, connection still intact, and captured my lips. One of his servos slid under the lower part of my back and pulled me up against his frame, my thighs embracing his sides.

Another feeling entered the picture. I could feel it strong and clear as if it was my own. Desire. Or was it a shared feeling? I could no longer discern where Soundwave ended and I started. And maybe it didn't matter.

We wanted the same thing. So I gave him all I had with no remorse. I wanted to love him with more than just my spark.

---

*array bond: a shallow bond characterized by one individual serving as the main data hub, referred to as the keynote, through whom the other members of the bond are linked (this allows direct communication without having to use comm-links), these encompass minicons and their masters for example. (based on Kemmasandi's Book of Hours worldbuilding post)

Huh, long chapter I know but I wanted the past to go down in one chapter. Thank you for your patience! I think I just suffocated you with Mercy's perspective. The story changed a lot compared to the original, but I do hope you enjoyed her little ride in the past!

Sorry for any OOC-ness, I did some research on past-Cybertron but I also mixed in elements from other TF universes and blended some headcanons.

Mercy's list of Earth-songs to feed rebellious thoughts:

Debut: Our Time - Hidden Citizens

Heroes fall - Hidden Citizens

Lost in thoughts - AmaLee cover

Unstoppable - Hidden Citizens

The Call - 2WEI feat. Edda Hayes

The songs to which SW and M danced is: The Arena and Waltz - both by Lindsey Stirling.

I hope you weren't put off by the inclusion of songs. It's a big part of Mercy's character and her way of expressing herself in contrast to Soundwave's action oriented nature and preferred silence. (Oh, and I kind of imagine his natural voice to be similar to that of his Cyberverse voice.)

Let's return to the normal timeline in the following chapter! Until then, bye bye!