(Woooo day 2 legoooo and this one is based off Tfo wavewave)
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
Years ago…
Today was a momentous day, as the commanders of the High Guard would debut by the honor of Megatronous Prime.
The rest of the cadets who had graduated from trainees to official officers took their seats before the surrounding crowd of Cybertron's people. The buzz of excitement and gossip brought energy to conversations as they waited for the ceremony to start.
And when would it start?
The necessary equipment, mic checks, lighting, and other theatric systems were all in place and ready to go. The Primes who would be presenting short anecdotes are on standby and conversing with Megatronous. As well as Sentinel over seeing last minute checks on everything else. Finally, the commanders-to-be, Soundwave and Starscream, are waiting side by side by Megatronous's pedes.
Yes, all three commanders were accounted for...Three?
Ah, of course, the final thing out of place is the third commander. Shockwave, a scientist of high-caliber, yet it seems he's gotten so caught up in his latest project that he's now running late to the most important day of his life.
Eventually 'the show must go on' as someone says somewhere on some planet.
The trumpets are played and the Primes are cheered onto the stage. Once their remarks are stated, Megatronous begins his speech on the arduous training and promising character he personally saw in the High Guard and his chosen commanders. Many were enthralled by his eloquence like how Soundwave took his words to heart, a small few were spacing out from how long he was taking like Starscream trying to pinpoint Skyfire in the audience.
"And it is now, I proudly present your lead commander Starscream," Megatronous announced and gestured to said seeker, going on even further on why he chose him. Starscream preened and puffed like a prized bird. Soundwave rolled his eyes, not that anyone could tell with his face completely covered.
Then it was his turn,"As the second-in-command, Soundwave my greatest disciple, I can think of no one better as his skills and efficiency are unlike any I've seen."
With the few steps onto the raised pedestal, Soundwave felt the gravity of the moment. All the time and effort has finally led up to this. The fruits of his labor recognized and congratulated from the very person he idolized his whole life. If it weren't for that wonderful fizzy static feeling in his legs and the blinding crowd, he would've thought this was a big grand dream.
Megtronous's declaration was abruptly interrupted by a panicked shout from backstage.
And there he was, running up and under the spotlight, Shockwave.
Everyone turned to look at the interrupter, Shockwave heaved and slightly wobbled until he took a proper stance,"My apologies for being late, Megatronous Prime! I was held up by other matters and got here as soon as I could."
'Was this guy serious?' Soundwave thought as he was taken aback by this display. Either way the Prime welcomed him warmly,"It is alright my friend, no need to worry. I was just about to get to you anyways," He turns towards the audience and Shockwave hurriedly rushes to where Soundwave was. Although he didn't want to internally, Soundwave steps down and returns to Starscream's side.
As all things do, the ceremony comes to an end and mechs part to their own after-parties.
Although Soundwave tried his best to mainly focus on his life's greatest achievement, he couldn't help but think about Shockwave and his...less than graceful actions today.
And apparently he would be the third-in-command. Well, patience is a virtue, and tolerance is key to not getting fired.
Post-Sentinel's Betrayal
There are no bonds stronger than those forged on the battlefield, and especially true for two certain commanders.
The once honorable and pride of Iacon High Guard were now nothing but disgraced drifters upon Cybertron's desolate surface. The only thing holding them all together are their ever stalwart commanders. Yet, they themselves are doing their best to come to terms with all that has happened.
In their hideout, everyone is sound asleep in recharge or at least trying to.
The connecting cave system thankfully has enough space and somewhere in one of the sections a blue shapely mech has seemed to sneak out.
On a cliff edge facing the lunar sky, Soundwave hugs his knees to his chest and stares off into space.
It's only been two weeks since the day Sentinel showed his true colors and yet it plagues his mind like an infestation. The utter devastation, the overwhelming Quintessons, the struggle, the chaos, the beheading of-
Soundwave's spiraling is quietly interrupted as he noticed Shockwave's approach.
Just as silently, he plops down and sits next to the other.
"Why are you out here tonight?" Shockwave inquired.
Soundwave simply answered,"Soundwave: appreciating the stars."
His third-in-command hums in acknowledgement and nothing else is said.
Then his field reaches towards the other like a question, although it's steady instead of hesitant like it once was ages ago.
The invitation is accepted and Shockwave wraps an arm around Soundwave while scooting closer.
So much has happened, and oh if only they could see what will come next.
Alas, until then, they have each other to hold. To hold, to confide, and carry the burden of leadership together.
#project hail mary
#the amazing digital circus
#heated rivalry
#lana del rey
#photography
