Let me paint you a mental picture...
Blackout and Galvatron have a...rather intriguing conversation, to say the least.
Blackout: -One day, five hours, twenty-six minutes and exactly seven seconds...and it was so close to completion. Blackout had not rested since its conception, nor spoken a single word of complaint as he went about his task of molding, bending, tearing and creating. It was tedious and long, even a bit backbreaking and demanding, but at last, he is one piece away from finishing...Galvatron's chair. His throne, to be precise.-
Galvatron: *Galvatron has been busy himself. Sort of. After razing more train-yards, he's settled into an almost sullen silence as he lingers about the edges of his 'territory'. It's obvious he's thinking of something, though he hasn't elaborated or even hinted as to what's on his processor at the moment. After awhile, he comes inside what passes for the 'main' building (which is a conglomerate of trains, really) and stares at the diligently working Blackout.* What are you doing?
Blackout: -So involved in his task, he nearly missed the other's entrance, frame straightening completely upright as he takes notice of his demanding presence. He had set down the outer haul of a train, the metal sheet now the exterior of the seat to form a more even surface for sitting. Of course, it's still nothing to really look at, though he attempted his best, shaping and reshaping similar shaded freight cars carefully. Resting one hand on the back of it, he motions towards it with the other.- Every powerful lord must have their throne, do they not?
Galvatron: *Dull optics give Blackout a bland look, then shift to the chair. He blinks slowly, taking it in. Usually, he'd give his harsh, and often brutal, concrit over the construction and it's inferiority to his greatness, but today his half-spark just isn't into making the effort. His only response is a half-hearted raise of an optic ridge before he sits himself down in almost a slump--though not quite. Obviously, Galvatron is off his game today.*
Blackout: -And he does wait for the comments, his surprise at the lack of usual response from his leader mildly apparent as he watches slightly wide opticed as Galvatron takes his seat. Like a sulking youngling, his disquiet is visible to the helicopter and demanding his attention, though he hesitates to bring such a matter up.- Is something the matter, Lord Galvatron? -Then a thought seems to occur to him.- Does it have something to do with Nemesis? He is not worth your consideration, if that is the case.
Galvatron: *He manages to muster a soft growl, batting a hand in Blackout's direction.* That fool is more an irritation than he is a concern.
Blackout: -Free hand coming to rest on the chair as well, it grips the backend of one arm rest, tightening like its companion on the back of the throne.- Then why not just destroy him? A task such as that...it would not be out of the question for you to do. -Scowls slightly.- He has done nothing but disrespect you. His continued existence alone is blasphemous.
Galvatron: *Stares straight ahead, though he does move to put his elbow on the arm rest near Blackout's hand, his chin held pensively in his hand. Destroy Nemesis? He thinks on it a moment and grunts quietly* He has his uses--for now. If anyone can bypass that annoying barrier, it is he. Always tinkering with those often useless programs of his...
Blackout: -His hand...slides closer to the point of just barely not touching Galvatron's arm.- While I believe you and undoubtedly trust your judgment, I still feel he would be far more useful as an example for the world than as some...tool. -He dismisses calling that mobile virus some sort of ally, his tone saying as much.- With your strength, his demise would only be a matter of time. His sword, broken and tossed aside, wires ripped to shreds, armor gutted wide open. At your hands his destruction would be glorious to the senses. Well, unless...
Galvatron: *There's a dull optic flicker, Blackout's quiet words flowing through his processor. The image of a torn and gutted Nemesis is...appealing. Incredibly so. Idly, he wonders if crushing the virus's spark would actually kill him, then decides that even if it didn't, the pure satisfaction it would bring...* ...unless?
Blackout: -And it is here that he grins, upper body leaning in so as his lips are near and dear to the other's audios, voice still a pleased murmur.- Unless you would prefer to watch? It would bring me no greater honor than to slaughter him in your name. -He dims his own optics and tilts his head, it angling as if to give the other's neck a nuzzle, but there is no contact. Never touch.- I could go there right now if you showed me the way. Give an order, a word, a motion...and I would bring you back his head.
Galvatron: Hmmmmm.... *He inclines his head, considering. Then turns his head, enough that he's looking Blackout square in the optics. His gaze flickers across the other's face, and in a very quiet voice, he replies.* I'd much rather have the so called Decepticon Commander's head on my lap.
Blackout: -Remains rooted in place, even as the other moves, and is silent for a short while.- Is that what has you so occupied? -He leans gently against the throne, laughing softly.- That too, can most assuredly be arranged. Why not both? Why not everyone? We could make a new fortress out of them.
Galvatron: *Something moves over him in a subtle ripple as he gazes back at Blackout. After a lingering moment, he turns away, and reclines against the chair. A fortress built of his enemies bodies? This appeals to him on so many levels. So, so many. He envisions the slaughter, Megatron's head being torn from his shoulders, spark ripped from his chassis and crushed. Yes. Oh, yes. A deep rumble, almost a purr, of approval whispers in the momentary silence.* Tell me more.... *Optics flicker sideways to where Blackout stands, his voice hushed.*
Blackout: What more would you like to hear? -Croons, delighted to captivate the other for as long as it indulges him.- About blasting the outer hauls of their beloved vessels, now empty shells in comparison to their former glory, and sending their new homes completely asunder? Without that force field, it would not even be a challenge. It would be like cracking open an egg and spilling its contents. You could pick off the mechs one by one, or demolish them all at once. As their reaper, their demise is completely at your discretion. Should their leaders still linger, their expressions at seeing their men slaughtered would be priceless.
Galvatron: *He smiles at the last, images of the stricken faces of Optimus Prime and Megatron clear in his mind. Their failure like sweet energon on his glossa. Yes. This pleases him. Excites him. He shifts again in the chair, leaning back, his claws now working the tips of the arm rests slowly as he thinks.* But how...
Blackout: I wish I knew... -And at this, he does sound genially apologetic.- Those bothersome elves are in charge of the barrier, an achievement of that magnitude surprisingly resilient. Not even Megatron's limited wisdom could figure it out. -A purr returns to his voice, though.- Thankfully, there is more than one way to skin them alive. It is only a matter of time until they slip up, and when they do...you will be ready.
Galvatron: *His demeanor shifts from interested to annoyed.* I don't want to wait.
Blackout: So impatient... -Says it lightly, however.- I cannot blame you, I would rather like to get my hands on a couple of them myself. Short of luring them out with a colossal display of ruthlessness on their precious little meatsacks, it is difficult to discern what else would get their attention.
Galvatron: *He grows still again, quiet stealing over him. After a long, long moment, he looks back at Blackout, smiling with a show of vicious teeth.* ...that might just work.
Blackout: -...was that just a compliment? Unsure, he ventures a bit tentatively.- I am honored that you think as much, but you should not sully your hands with them. A chore such as that should be left to grunts like myself. Megatron would be swayed by a... -Waves a hand around in the air idly, searching for the right word.- more direct approach. The others we can worry about later, once you call him out.
Galvatron: *Frowns again. He likes the other idea better. It would force their hand, that much he knows. He ponders some more, growling irritably.* Megatron is a coward. What makes you think he'd come if I called?
Blackout: Pride. -Matter-of-factly.- Were he to deny you, it would reflect poorly on him, especially in the presence of his followers. There is displeasure in the ranks concerning his ability to lead, from both the Decepticons and the Autobots. This will be his downfall.
Galvatron: ... *More silence, then a short growl of agreement* He lost his ability to lead anyone or thing vorns ago. I'm amazed he has any pride left at all.
Blackout: He is stubborn as much as he is prideful, I am afraid to say. -Notes flippantly.- The only two positive qualities about him, which says little for his character. Nothing in comparison to yourself...it would seem you kept all the best characteristics.
Galvatron: *Nods in agreement.* Hn...I'll need to think on this more. Megatron doesn't understand subtlety. Perhaps a more direct approach is necessary.
Galvatron: *He pauses again.* ...if I could get my claws on Optimus Prime, that would certainly draw him out....
Blackout: That has its own risks. -Is careful to point out.- As regretful as I am to admit it, Optimus Prime has much going for him. I cannot foresee any easy way of obtaining him or going about doing such a thing without endangering ourselves. -His mood darkens as he adds.- Plus, I do not trust Nemesis not to interfere. He is intent on harming the Prime far too much.
Galvatron: .... *He hadn't thought about that.*
Blackout: -And thus, this is why you have a Blackout, who has more than several millennia of experience and knowledge to have at Galvatron's disposal~ Never fear, for the helicopter is here!- But whatever you choose to do, I will gladly assist in anyway possible. With your permission, I shall go and allow you time to consider your options.
Galvatron: *He waves his hand, which is merely more like a twitch of the fingers against the arm of the chair.* Very well. There's a pile of trains outside, waiting to be assembled. *His voice is distant, that sullenness returning.*
Blackout: -He slides away from the chair, giving his commander a nod in gratitude that is more like a bow, then makes his leave in utter silence.-
Blackout: -One day, five hours, twenty-six minutes and exactly seven seconds...and it was so close to completion. Blackout had not rested since its conception, nor spoken a single word of complaint as he went about his task of molding, bending, tearing and creating. It was tedious and long, even a bit backbreaking and demanding, but at last, he is one piece away from finishing...Galvatron's chair. His throne, to be precise.-
Galvatron: *Galvatron has been busy himself. Sort of. After razing more train-yards, he's settled into an almost sullen silence as he lingers about the edges of his 'territory'. It's obvious he's thinking of something, though he hasn't elaborated or even hinted as to what's on his processor at the moment. After awhile, he comes inside what passes for the 'main' building (which is a conglomerate of trains, really) and stares at the diligently working Blackout.* What are you doing?
Blackout: -So involved in his task, he nearly missed the other's entrance, frame straightening completely upright as he takes notice of his demanding presence. He had set down the outer haul of a train, the metal sheet now the exterior of the seat to form a more even surface for sitting. Of course, it's still nothing to really look at, though he attempted his best, shaping and reshaping similar shaded freight cars carefully. Resting one hand on the back of it, he motions towards it with the other.- Every powerful lord must have their throne, do they not?
Galvatron: *Dull optics give Blackout a bland look, then shift to the chair. He blinks slowly, taking it in. Usually, he'd give his harsh, and often brutal, concrit over the construction and it's inferiority to his greatness, but today his half-spark just isn't into making the effort. His only response is a half-hearted raise of an optic ridge before he sits himself down in almost a slump--though not quite. Obviously, Galvatron is off his game today.*
Blackout: -And he does wait for the comments, his surprise at the lack of usual response from his leader mildly apparent as he watches slightly wide opticed as Galvatron takes his seat. Like a sulking youngling, his disquiet is visible to the helicopter and demanding his attention, though he hesitates to bring such a matter up.- Is something the matter, Lord Galvatron? -Then a thought seems to occur to him.- Does it have something to do with Nemesis? He is not worth your consideration, if that is the case.
Galvatron: *He manages to muster a soft growl, batting a hand in Blackout's direction.* That fool is more an irritation than he is a concern.
Blackout: -Free hand coming to rest on the chair as well, it grips the backend of one arm rest, tightening like its companion on the back of the throne.- Then why not just destroy him? A task such as that...it would not be out of the question for you to do. -Scowls slightly.- He has done nothing but disrespect you. His continued existence alone is blasphemous.
Galvatron: *Stares straight ahead, though he does move to put his elbow on the arm rest near Blackout's hand, his chin held pensively in his hand. Destroy Nemesis? He thinks on it a moment and grunts quietly* He has his uses--for now. If anyone can bypass that annoying barrier, it is he. Always tinkering with those often useless programs of his...
Blackout: -His hand...slides closer to the point of just barely not touching Galvatron's arm.- While I believe you and undoubtedly trust your judgment, I still feel he would be far more useful as an example for the world than as some...tool. -He dismisses calling that mobile virus some sort of ally, his tone saying as much.- With your strength, his demise would only be a matter of time. His sword, broken and tossed aside, wires ripped to shreds, armor gutted wide open. At your hands his destruction would be glorious to the senses. Well, unless...
Galvatron: *There's a dull optic flicker, Blackout's quiet words flowing through his processor. The image of a torn and gutted Nemesis is...appealing. Incredibly so. Idly, he wonders if crushing the virus's spark would actually kill him, then decides that even if it didn't, the pure satisfaction it would bring...* ...unless?
Blackout: -And it is here that he grins, upper body leaning in so as his lips are near and dear to the other's audios, voice still a pleased murmur.- Unless you would prefer to watch? It would bring me no greater honor than to slaughter him in your name. -He dims his own optics and tilts his head, it angling as if to give the other's neck a nuzzle, but there is no contact. Never touch.- I could go there right now if you showed me the way. Give an order, a word, a motion...and I would bring you back his head.
Galvatron: Hmmmmm.... *He inclines his head, considering. Then turns his head, enough that he's looking Blackout square in the optics. His gaze flickers across the other's face, and in a very quiet voice, he replies.* I'd much rather have the so called Decepticon Commander's head on my lap.
Blackout: -Remains rooted in place, even as the other moves, and is silent for a short while.- Is that what has you so occupied? -He leans gently against the throne, laughing softly.- That too, can most assuredly be arranged. Why not both? Why not everyone? We could make a new fortress out of them.
Galvatron: *Something moves over him in a subtle ripple as he gazes back at Blackout. After a lingering moment, he turns away, and reclines against the chair. A fortress built of his enemies bodies? This appeals to him on so many levels. So, so many. He envisions the slaughter, Megatron's head being torn from his shoulders, spark ripped from his chassis and crushed. Yes. Oh, yes. A deep rumble, almost a purr, of approval whispers in the momentary silence.* Tell me more.... *Optics flicker sideways to where Blackout stands, his voice hushed.*
Blackout: What more would you like to hear? -Croons, delighted to captivate the other for as long as it indulges him.- About blasting the outer hauls of their beloved vessels, now empty shells in comparison to their former glory, and sending their new homes completely asunder? Without that force field, it would not even be a challenge. It would be like cracking open an egg and spilling its contents. You could pick off the mechs one by one, or demolish them all at once. As their reaper, their demise is completely at your discretion. Should their leaders still linger, their expressions at seeing their men slaughtered would be priceless.
Galvatron: *He smiles at the last, images of the stricken faces of Optimus Prime and Megatron clear in his mind. Their failure like sweet energon on his glossa. Yes. This pleases him. Excites him. He shifts again in the chair, leaning back, his claws now working the tips of the arm rests slowly as he thinks.* But how...
Blackout: I wish I knew... -And at this, he does sound genially apologetic.- Those bothersome elves are in charge of the barrier, an achievement of that magnitude surprisingly resilient. Not even Megatron's limited wisdom could figure it out. -A purr returns to his voice, though.- Thankfully, there is more than one way to skin them alive. It is only a matter of time until they slip up, and when they do...you will be ready.
Galvatron: *His demeanor shifts from interested to annoyed.* I don't want to wait.
Blackout: So impatient... -Says it lightly, however.- I cannot blame you, I would rather like to get my hands on a couple of them myself. Short of luring them out with a colossal display of ruthlessness on their precious little meatsacks, it is difficult to discern what else would get their attention.
Galvatron: *He grows still again, quiet stealing over him. After a long, long moment, he looks back at Blackout, smiling with a show of vicious teeth.* ...that might just work.
Blackout: -...was that just a compliment? Unsure, he ventures a bit tentatively.- I am honored that you think as much, but you should not sully your hands with them. A chore such as that should be left to grunts like myself. Megatron would be swayed by a... -Waves a hand around in the air idly, searching for the right word.- more direct approach. The others we can worry about later, once you call him out.
Galvatron: *Frowns again. He likes the other idea better. It would force their hand, that much he knows. He ponders some more, growling irritably.* Megatron is a coward. What makes you think he'd come if I called?
Blackout: Pride. -Matter-of-factly.- Were he to deny you, it would reflect poorly on him, especially in the presence of his followers. There is displeasure in the ranks concerning his ability to lead, from both the Decepticons and the Autobots. This will be his downfall.
Galvatron: ... *More silence, then a short growl of agreement* He lost his ability to lead anyone or thing vorns ago. I'm amazed he has any pride left at all.
Blackout: He is stubborn as much as he is prideful, I am afraid to say. -Notes flippantly.- The only two positive qualities about him, which says little for his character. Nothing in comparison to yourself...it would seem you kept all the best characteristics.
Galvatron: *Nods in agreement.* Hn...I'll need to think on this more. Megatron doesn't understand subtlety. Perhaps a more direct approach is necessary.
Galvatron: *He pauses again.* ...if I could get my claws on Optimus Prime, that would certainly draw him out....
Blackout: That has its own risks. -Is careful to point out.- As regretful as I am to admit it, Optimus Prime has much going for him. I cannot foresee any easy way of obtaining him or going about doing such a thing without endangering ourselves. -His mood darkens as he adds.- Plus, I do not trust Nemesis not to interfere. He is intent on harming the Prime far too much.
Galvatron: .... *He hadn't thought about that.*
Blackout: -And thus, this is why you have a Blackout, who has more than several millennia of experience and knowledge to have at Galvatron's disposal~ Never fear, for the helicopter is here!- But whatever you choose to do, I will gladly assist in anyway possible. With your permission, I shall go and allow you time to consider your options.
Galvatron: *He waves his hand, which is merely more like a twitch of the fingers against the arm of the chair.* Very well. There's a pile of trains outside, waiting to be assembled. *His voice is distant, that sullenness returning.*
Blackout: -He slides away from the chair, giving his commander a nod in gratitude that is more like a bow, then makes his leave in utter silence.-