[ text; private message to starscream ]

[buffthis]

As I'm sure you're eager for some good news, I thought I'd let you know our ranks just swelled by one. I was able to locate Breakdown -- turns out he's been on Earth for the last two years.

The bad news is that he's been held prisoner by TRIDENT for all that time. Don't fault him for it, though. It seems that TRIDENT is a more formidable group of humans than either of us realized. No telling exactly how much intel they got from him, but considering the state he was in when I found him... Well, let's just say that I think it's in our best interests to snuff out their little organization regardless. And painfully.

But still, it's a net gain. I'll have to find some supplies to patch Breakdown up properly, but he'll be quite an asset, don't you think? Things should go much more smoothly with three of us.

You're welcome.

Comments

[starscheme]

Another one of you has been here for years without my knowledge? What an utter surprise.

Ordinarily I'd question his usefulness if he managed to get himself caught and detained by humans of all things, but I am... familiar with this TRIDENT group. For once, I am inclined to agree with you: They should be made to pay. But not yet... We have more pressing matters at hand, completely disregarding the fact that we are under-equipped for such an endeavor.

I suppose I could also keep an eye out for useful supplies that would be helpful for patching the big lug up, if you have a wish list. In the meantime, get him back to base and out of sight from any blasted nosy organics.

And don't you dare get cocky with me. Rescuing one Decepticon is not going to erase your blunder with the Harvester.

[buffthis]

Any humans who might've managed to capture Breakdown I'd consider a threat. I've worked with him for years -- he's not that easy to take down. And if it's a wishlist you want, it'll be rather long. I'm going to have to build him a new arm entirely.

We're staying well out of sight, don't you worry, Commander. And trust me, I have no interest in a suicide mission against TRIDENT. But what they did simply can't be ignored for long.

Don't you mean our blunder? That was a team effort, I'd say.

[starscheme]

Ping me your damn list, I will see what I can do. Despite your insubordinate and disrespectful back talking. You're welcome.

CAN YOU FEEL HIM ROLLING HIS OPTICS AT U FROM HERE

[buffthis]

Well, I am the Chief Medical Officer of Decepticon forces on his planet. One would hope you'd give me the tools to do my job regardless of your personal feelings about me.

I'm sure Breakdown appreciates it.

HE'S DELIBERATELY IGNORING THAT FIRST BIT.

[starscheme]

I'll meet you back at the base within the next few hours.

[buffthis]

Is that an order?

[starscheme]

I swear Knockout I will slaughter you and strip your corpse for parts and fix Breakdown myself. He's much less offensive company.

[buffthis]

[ WOW STARSCREAM HE WAS JUST ASKING!!! ruuuude

Knock Out decides against pushing to have the last word and doesn't respond. Probably the wisest decision he's made all day. ]