[ti]Ep 3.5[/ti]Agenda [Starscream, Soundwave]

[Starscream]

Glancing to Soundwave as he moved, a clawed digit would shift to idly tap the table in absent thought. He was not surprised in the slightest that the Spymaster had the answer to what Megatron had asked, and he would watch as the navy mech scrolled through the footage until he found the appropriate time.

Knock Out leaving was obvious enough, but now they had the exact moment that he had left Blackridge Hold. It offered very little else in terms of details such as where he had gone, but at least it showed he had left through the bridge.

Then, the footage would scroll through once more.

Optics narrowing just slightly, he folded his arms loosely across his chassis as he watched. Breakdown and Flatline were seen, and while he could not tell what was being said, the black and red medic seemed rather animated about something. The other medic had been at the meeting, and while he’d made a point to stand within a group as if hoping to go unseen, Starscream had noticed him there.

What was curious though was how Breakdown had seemingly been in the Medical Bay the entire time. From Knock Out’s departure, all through the meeting, until Flatline returned.

But why.

Without audio, the answer to that would be unknown - but by all accounts, it seemed the big blue mech had no reason not to be at the meeting, nor to inform them far earlier about Knock Out’s absence.

His attention drifted to Megatron as he spoke, and while he thought the denial of rations was rather harsh a punishment, it would hopefully add some urgency to an already time-sensitive situation. Knock Out could have been taken by MECH, and the sooner they got him back? The better. Breakdown knew first hand what they were capable of, after all, and perhaps this would push him into joining the efforts, especially if he was not needed in the Medical Bay.

As Megatron moved his arm, the silver Seeker tensed just slightly. A second passed, before he would nod. The next order wasn’t aimed at him - however, given he had been told to keep Thundercracker on a short leash, it at the very least concerned him. Patrols would be no issue for his Trinemate, Starscream knowing he was dutiful in his reports as well - so there would be some benefit in his outings.

There was a brief moment of hesitation, before Starscream gently cleared his throat.

“Is there anything you would have me do, Lord Megatron?”

[Soundwave]

Soundwave watched Megatron intently as the Warlord spoke, not even the most subtle of motions offered while taking in his directions. A hollow black screen angled at him. An inanimate frame that still held its fingertips upon the table's surface. It was almost as though he returned to his inert state, the one that seemed to disturb others at times given a lack of many signs 'normal' souls made subconsciously. Yet, as dead as he could appear, he most certainly wasn't, etching down the commands that were given into stone, where it could not be erased or blurred by wobbling translations.

Breakdown was going to have a very rough time in the near future.

Sending him out onto active patrols and hunts for his significant other was a given, weaponizing his worry for Knock Out in order to inspire his actions into a zeal that others may not hold. There was urgency brought by missing a medic and the higher stakes that it entailed, and then there was the urgency felt when said medic was cherished. They could not be compared equally. That said, to throw the foolish soldier into such a task with no rations until the situation had concluded?... Breakdown had made a grievous error in judgment indeed, though Soundwave had no intention of dooming him outright. He would uphold Megatron's word without falter, though he would tactically drop the mech the closest he could to the active points of greater interest.

Their missing CMO had been going to a race, that much he could piece together. The postings on social media on the pages Knock Out looked through for his less than sanctioned outings did have one for that day not terribly far from where he had been dropped. None of the photos showed him, however, which meant that somewhere between the Space Bridge and there was when things went south. While he and Starkrieger hadn’t found anything large of note, perhaps Breakdown would once plasced in that exact point.

This same frame of concept about giving the truants at least a modicum of mercy was taken into mind regarding Thundercracker and Skywarp as well. While Breakdown could cover the ground Knock Out inevitably drove, the two fliers would do well to bolster scouting out in Nevada to find the root source of all their primary issues, which could also entail Knock Out by proxy. Thundercracker as far as Soundwave was concerned could be trusted to start to traverse uncharted terrain, taking a finer tooth comb to a swath of land already glanced over for major clues, though the second flier most certainly couldn't be trusted.

Skywarp would be set out to scout areas that others had already searched, to see if his erratic mindset could look at it in a different way to see something others were incapable of. He would be alone, forced to think for himself and not be left on a choke chain tether. This was the navy mech's perspective and his first plan of action however, and said plans could change just as quickly as they formed depending on this discussion and Starscream's judgment. The Seeker was the Second in Command for a reason, and led aerial troops with skill. It was his domain. This said, the fact they were his trine could be a conflict of interest in a way, despite 'family' matters needing to be disregarded. An eye would be kept on this, and smart choices needed to be made with no favoritism.

As to do otherwise could get passed up the chain.

At this, Soundwave finally moved, helm smoothly turning to look at Starscream as he spoke. It was a passing glance, seeing if he had more to add before he eased back, clipping Megatron into his line of sight. His hands remained placed upon the table, propped up upon thin fingertips.

[Megatron]

Megatron briefly ruminated on a few possibilities, some of which were not unlike those considered by Starscream. At times, it was almost striking how similar their thoughts could be, though either of them would be offended were this fact to be spoken aloud. Although, the Warlord's investment in this matter clearly differed when it came to the severity of the proposed punishment. He showed utter disregard for Breakdown's well-being to the point where his starvation was an acceptable risk in exchange for finding Knock Out.

Regardless, no one pointlessly disparaged the punishment, and so he did not remain silent for long, focusing on Starscream's question.

“Is there anything you would have me do, Lord Megatron?”

Unfortunately for Starscream, Megatron took his question as a sign of volunteering, and his forthcoming reply took full advantage of that assumption.

"You may participate in the search personally—if you wish. I will consider it a display of your continued...loyalty," he replied with a grave tone; the syllables of "loyalty" stretched nigh into infinity. Apparently, it made for an important factor when it came to Starscream and his recent transgressions—of which he was no less guilty than Breakdown of his. Were Megatron equitable in dispensing judgment, Starscream could have been facing a similarly forced penance too. But he was not and Starscream proved far too indispensable during the Warlord's absence to saddle him with grim punishments.

At this junction, however, Megatron's words were followed only by a rumble-deep intake. It was then that he turned to Soundwave whose helm came to likewise regard the Seeker. For him, he had some final words regarding the matter of Knock Out as well: "I expect you both to cooperate in this matter. Regardless of your personal differences."

Although the cautioned words had been spoken in the direction of Soundwave, it was clear they involved everyone in the room. They could scarcely afford discord in the higher echelons when it came to such important affairs. Not that Megatron worried his Spymaster would allow personal bents to impede the Decepticon cause. Quite the opposite, he had the utmost faith in him. Even still, the Lord had not forgotten the recent incidents which pitted Soundwave and Starscream in opposition and he was concerned this past animosity could fester and spread into something greater.

Crossing his arms importantly, his optics shifted sideways back to the Air Commander, giving him a pointed stare, one just long enough to remind him that this affected him too, perhaps more than Soundwave. A look that said: "You are not absolved. You will work to maintain your position," without saying as much in the spoken word. In respect of this silent display of threat, Megatron swung his arms open and let them land on the table again. He leaned forward and regarded the both of them yet again:

"Do you have any further thoughts regarding the case of our missing medic or the absentees?"

It was a rough question spoken in a tone so flat one could mistake it for an order to stay silent. This was perhaps as inviting and open as Megatron got when it came to letting another person take charge of the conversation. In this way, Starscream and Soundwave were given one last opportunity to inform their leader of any other pertinent circumstances before he decided to close the matter for now and make them answer his next grievance.

[Starscream]

While his attention was squarely on Megatron, Starscream couldn’t help but notice the glance given to him by Soundwave. He paid it no real mind, knowing - or at the very least, hoping - the Spymaster was no doubt looking at him simply because he had spoken, and nothing more. This meeting would’ve been recorded from start to finish, and while he personally would have no need of the footage, he knew well that every word and action taken in this room would be dutifully logged.

Though, that went for most of Blackridge, he was sure. They were rather situated now, and he was certain that Soundwave had placed cameras throughout - some hidden and not - to keep a keen eye on the goings on at the base.

Nodding at Megatron’s words, he would shift his weight just slightly - standing tall at the order given, though his wings would not move to match this action.

“Consider it done, Lord Megatron.”

He’d helped with the recovery efforts of Breakdown when he had been taken - being the only one who had seemingly cared enough to do so - and while he wasn’t sure if Knock Out had been taken by MECH, he was at least familiar with that location. Whether or not the human pests were stupid enough to take someone back to the same location remained to be seen, however it would be a good starting point for his own search efforts.

This shift in posture would change in an instant at the Warlord’s following words, shoulders sagging ever so slightly at the mention of cooperating, a quick glance given to the mech beside him. 

“Yes, of course.”

He had no issue working with Soundwave. When they had a unified goal, they were quite the effective team, scarily so at times - and he was sure the search for their CMO would be no different. The problem, however, was this would’ve been the perfect opportunity to get out from the watchful eye of the Spymaster and Blackridge Hold - a chance to check on his own personal projects under the guise of looking for the cherry-red mech.

Though perhaps that was why it had been brought up. Unlooping his arms from his chassis, they would ease behind himself with a gradual motion. No further words were spoken from him on the matter, not wanting to hint or even give away the slightest fleck of guilt.

Instead, he would continue looking at Megatron as he broke the momentary silence with more words, quietly thankful that the Warlord’s gaze seemed to be on Soundwave, rather than himself.

Further thoughts? Was this a trick question - hoping to trip them somehow? He wasn’t quite sure how to answer. The absence of his Trinemates had been a surprise even to him, and the footage of Breakdown had been equally as confusing.

Knock Out, though - he had a thought, and would hum quietly before speaking.

“Not really. Though perhaps should our efforts in the search for Knock Out fail to produce any meaningful leads, we could look into the Autobots for assistance-” his thumb claw scraped carefully at one clawed digit as he spoke, optics narrowing - almost as if he couldn’t even believe he was bringing up the other faction. “-They did prove significantly useful in the search for Breakdown, and should MECH have been the one to take our CMO, we could utilize them again.”

He’d rather they go in first, after all - as while he had no qualms in searching for missing soldiers, the thought of putting himself in harm's way was a different matter. The Autobots did like to play ‘hero’ - and what a perfect opportunity this could be to get Knock Out back and eradicate some pests in the process.

[Soundwave]

Soundwave wasn't entirely certain why he was the one being spoken to more directly when there was the comment about their need to cooperate. Generally, he did whatever was asked of him by the Second in Command to serve his post well so long as it did not go against the betterment of the Decepticon cause. Poor choices by the Seeker? That was Starscream's problem, and some faulty decision-making wasn't enough to push his hand should it not seem horrifically detrimental... though, he knew that wasn't what was likely being referred to by their Warlord. As much as he served diligently without protest the vast majority of the time, he also could bite back hard when a real threat came around that he did not agree with, oftentimes with a sharper blade to make a point.

This had to be a direct reference to he and Starscream's momentary scuffle, though that was completely justified in Soundwave's opinion. He could not step aside and let some defector into their base with no clearance beyond a wink and an archaic pledge of loyalty slapped beside a scathing Megatron review... with the Warlords most dedicated follower right there recording it. To even pretend that was alright and roll with it was not something the navy mech was willing to stomach, at least not with Blackridge. If it was the mobile Nemesis? It likely would not have gone down as it had and he may have just walked off to keep tabs via video feeds and close monitoring. With a base they couldn't relocate and would then be compromised should he go rogue once Megatron returned...?

No chances could be taken.

Even with the order of cooperation, that incident would have likely still pushed Soundwave's hand in some form or another. Granted, perhaps siccing Starscream's dog on his newest follower was crossing a line... it was a petty twist of the knife in irritation when there were far more tactful ways to deal with it... though he didn't regret it. It may not have worked how he wanted, yet a point had been made. If presented with the situation again in the now however with this new command, he would handle it more 'civilly'. Relocate the mech, let Starscream know how unacceptable his decision was, and then report it to Megatron to then wash his hands of it and move on with other tasks.

Whatever the case, Soundwave would lean easily into the role he always did, ready to take direction and move forward to produce results. This neutrality and acceptance showed in the way that he did not crook his helm or make any other motions to ask questions or protest. The only action that was made was a gradual ease back from the stance he had taken when he had his monitor on display for both to watch. This ended with his fingertips lifting up off the table before long slender arms folded back down at his side into an idle state.

At Megatron's question, a small white X clipped at the front of Soundwave's visor, effectively putting a close to his input on the matter regarding Knock Out and the three negligent souls. He technically had more data and information regarding the absence of their medic, namely the records of the race and more specifics of what he and Starkrieger had located out on the field, though it was hardly worth bringing up right now. It was something that could be looked into when making particular choices down the line, and needn't bloat out the discussion further when there were other topics that needed to be addressed.

With a flick, the X would vanish as quickly as it had shown itself, Soundwave's helm leveling out between the two other mech as Starscream spoke about the Autobots.

[Megatron]

Megatron did not doubt Soundwave's ability to fulfill his directives. Yet the recent, albeit indirect, confrontation between his two most prominent lieutenants worried him even now; a fact he did not give voice beyond the simple command which had already been spoken. In an era that would test their endurance and loyalty, there could be no strife between them. *Every* decision would have to be reached with uniformity of mind and purpose—to destroy the Autobots whilst they were still Earth-bound and crippled. Chasing after starving traitors and undermining one another's authority over their troops was not conducive to success. Had Soundwave only disposed of that wretched creature by his own hand, perhaps Megatron would not have spoken in his direction—or not spoken at all. Indeed, Starscream was already made aware of his errors with lethal intent. There was no need to belabor the point further.

No, they had still greater matters to attend to.

When the silver Seeker spoke again, his attention ultimately fell upon the missing medic once more. But something about the way he had done so stirred powerful emotions within his Lord. His brow sunk in anger and the corner of his scarred lip curled violently.

"After you've attempted and failed to massacre them?!" He bellowed at once, fiercely swinging his armed hand across the table. It took a moment for Megatron to compose himself after that. The mere thought of Starscream's actions at Haven brought to surface an intense mote of rage. When at last he dispersed it, he continued to speak.

"Unless you intend to give up our prisoner for the mere possibility of information, I suggest you bargain with your own Spark."

No. Of course not. The Autobot medic would not be given out just to secure another, temporary stalemate for the sake of their search. She was a valuable asset, one which needed to be traded with care. Only to secure Knock Out or their warship *directly*. Nothing less would suffice. Some brief gesture of cooperation would not, and Starscream had nothing else to offer them—as far as Megatron knew.

Staying on course with Starscream was often a trying experience for him. He suspected that the Seeker said less than he meant and everything said also served an *ulterior motive*. Combined with his attitude, even a formal meeting with his SIC often proved trying. But Megatron was a bastion of volition and he would stay the course for now. At least he did not sound *as* infuriated as he did at the moment of Starscream's suggestion anymore. His voice gradually lowered into a deep rumble, returning to what was important once again.

 
"The prisoner will only be used in the ways we have already discussed. The Autobots could leverage this situation in their favor and I will not allow that. Better that the humans pick Knock Out apart for scrap than that Prime learns our secrets," he explained—no, *commanded*—in a grave, rumbling tone. With the command, an unspoken agreement has been reached, or rather an unspoken compliance has been forced. This suggestion would not be brought up again. This course of action would not be questioned again. If MECH had their medic, Megatron would sooner let him perish than see an *Autobot* rescue party hand him over.

There was only one way they would deal with the Autobots going forward.

This brought Megatron to his next point. He reached with his hand for a small, opaque-red button by the side of the table and pressed it firmly. The button clicked. The color of the table's readouts changed. Red. One of Megatron's fingers reached for a file upon the display. A red wire-mesh sprung from the bottom of the projector, coiling upwards like snakes from a pit. Interwoven at last, it formed the corpus of a leviathan weapon. *The Mortilus' Hymn*—a massive, war-era cannon, the likes of which do not presently exist on Earth. Not in a *complete* state. This was to be the instrument by which Megatron would sing his requiem to the Autobots. The reason he had searched the infinite cosmos for plans and resources and the weapon itself.

And it was still unfinished, the components were still incomplete. Even after everything he'd sacrificed for this beautiful symphony of metal and death. Somehow, it felt as if his masterful composition was growing more distant with each passing day. He wanted, *needed*, the reassurance that it was not so.

Gazing deep, deep into the fiery barrel of his symphony, he spoke once more:

"If we wish to secure a lasting advantage, we need our warship, yes, but we need our weapon—my weapon—even more. How is the progress on the Hymn proceeding?"

*My* weapon. The mere sound of that was almost poetic. Megatron clearly valued it more than he could explain. He truly saw his hopes embodied in it. He *believed* in it. Perhaps it was an obsession, but... Such technical terms did not do the cannon's beauty justice. Progress. Proceeding. Advantage. It was more than that to him. It was an instrument, the sound of which elated the Sparks of Decepticons and struck those of Autobots with dread—before they were snuffed out in a single, ceremonious second, followed by an eternal, unceremonious *silence*.

He remained quiet then, letting his lieutenants explain for themselves.

[Starscream]

The reaction to his rather bold suggestion was immediate - and entirely expected. Though even despite this, the silver Seeker flinched at the bellowed words and fierce movement, wings sagging some behind himself in a momentary betrayal of his emotions and fear.

Haven had been a failure - that much he would admit to, even if it was the closest any of them had come to eradicating Optimus Prime from this planet. Was it all entirely his fault that things had gone wrong? No, however he was smart enough to keep his opinion on that to himself, not wanting to be seen as passing the blame onto others - especially after the words spoken by the Warlord just days prior upon his re-arrival to Blackridge Hold.

Though, despite the doomed ambush upon them, he was certain that the threat of MECH taking a medic would justify the Autobots agreeing to a meeting, if only with the purpose to inform them of the bad news. The human pests were a mutual enemy, and a dangerous one at that. Should they manage to pry delicate information from Knock Out regarding their species? Who knew what leaps and bounds they would make with their advancements against them.

Saving Knock Out from their clutches would be for the greater good of all Cybertronian.

Though it seemed Megatron did not share this sentiment, and while the Seeker’s wings had slowly returned to their neutral resting state as the imposing mech’s temper cooled, they would twitch at what the Warlord deemed the better option for their CMO.

“Understood, Lord Megatron. A-apologies for being rash in my suggestion.”

He wouldn’t argue his reasoning, nor would he voice his disagreement against what Megatron had said, backing down quickly - the words paired with a gentle bob of his helm.

Glancing quickly to Soundwave if only to remind himself that the silent mech was even still there, he shifted his attention to Megatron as he moved - and with it, the readouts on the table. Recognizing what was displayed in an instant, Starscream would gently frown.

Keeping his gaze on the wire mesh projection, he leaned both servos onto the edge of the desk. It was only a matter of time until the Hymn was brought up again, and given the dangerous line of which he currently walked, he knew to choose his words carefully.

The Nemesis should be their topmost priority - to be stuck underground in Blackridge was a disaster waiting to happen. Should Knock Out tell the Autobots - if they had him - of their current location, it would end in countless losses, even if things moved to favor the Decepticons. Yet Megatron was fixated on this ridiculous weapon.

A weapon that would not come to be, should all go well.

“As you know, initial recovery efforts were admittedly slower than we’d anticipated - gathering the scattered pieces has proven to be an ongoing challenge. However, with every piece found, advancements have been made in our technology to locate further fragments with greater accuracy and speed.”

The scanner that’d been modified by Soundwave to pinpoint the signature of the weapon pieces had come a long way from the bare bones prototype it had once been, though it was by no means perfect. While he had shifted their priority to Energon mining in Megatron’s absence, Vehicon teams were sent out on occasion to locate weapon pieces, if only to feign some illusion that he cared about it.

“All retrieved portions of the weapon-” okay, not all... “-have been stored within the abandoned mine where Sparkplug has a small base of operation. I’d estimate that we have about half the necessary pieces located and contained.”

Or at least, that was what had been logged.

“I, admittedly, have not personally spoken with Sparkplug in some time regarding updates on the Hymn.” a glance was given to Soundwave then, unsure if the Spymaster had been more proactive with keeping tabs on things. “However, can only assume things are proceeding at a satisfactory pace.”

Even if the femme had managed to piece together the recovered scraps into some semblance of its former glory, the weapon would never function with so many parts missing. While he was certain replacement components could be manufactured, with the loss of their ship and a significant lack of Cybertronian metal - it would be slow going to the point it would take years upon years.

He’d always been one for biding his time, and this would be no different.

[Soundwave]

When Starscream glanced over, Soundwave's unseen gaze would look back in turn, before leveling out between the two other mechs once more.

At this current juncture, he had nothing to add to the discussion, going inert and quiet as topics flowed from one to the other. He wasn't going to kindle and revisit the discussion on Haven when it was brought up, nor was he interested in getting any more involved with the prisoner situation until a couple more things were figured out on his side to see if he needed to put in any more input. Really, he went back to being that ever-silent camera, taking notes about the clash that was going on before him between two Cybertronian that could accomplish so very much if they could set things aside for the sake of productivity.

"-we need our warship, yes, but we need our weapon—my weapon—even more."

The faintest of twitch was made at this, Soundwave’s helm crooking to the side at the phrasing that had been used, though nothing beyond that was done, letting Starscream take control of things until the metaphorical ball was handed off to him.

Now that he was pulled from passive to proactive once more, Soundwave's visor quickly activated at the glance in his direction, a crackling sound made that was not unlike a poor radio trying to activate. It was something that both individuals before him would recognize instantly, it a tell of what was to come rather than indicating some sort of bad connection. This auditory cue was paired with the blank visor popping solid dull teal for a single frame, before the same color fed as a series of threaded lines horizontally over black, each bouncing along with the tones and volumes of the speaking individual.

It would be easy to decipher just who the source audio was from even without a visual cue, the cheery bright, and energetic weapons manufacturer's voice difficult to mistake for anyone else.

//̨Cycle update: restoration of blocks 27, 30 and 31 are going well. Scavenged power converters and energy assemblies from block 50 and 57; they're almost entirely stripped now/͘/̕

There was the radio crackle sound again, the tail end of the last word slightly cut off as it jumped to another portion of the report and continued.

/̴/I can rebuild some of the missing blocks from scratch, but we'll need some serious components for that; best case, we need to strip a large-scale derelict space bridge for power and control systems/͞/

They had a large-scale Space Bridge! But it was not to be used for the weapon in Soundwave's standing. He had been working hard with Shockwave trying to find ways to improve the already impressive mechanism, seeking to bloat out its already immense vortex radius to its upper edges in the hope it could consume the Nemesis in full at its inopportune angle. If the warship was pointed directly vertically, it likely could be freed in the now, however, it being stuck sideways with no current way to push it horizontally through a gate meant they had to work with gravity, and it was... ugly.

He could have easily clipped this out from the longer report, not even dropping the idea onto Megatron's lap due to his devotion to the all-powerful weapon, but it wasn't his place to deny information on such levels.

/̀/The primary lensing assembly is irreplaceable, though, can't progress much further than that without it/͜/̴

That was really the bottom line. Sparkplug could have everything she wanted delivered tenfold. She could have all the pieces of the weapon, and any and all tools and materials at their disposal dropped into her hands... and it wouldn't be enough. They needed that central lensing assembly that went with the machine's particular elements, and Soundwave didn't know how it could be replicated. He may not know the particular components or how to fix them himself, but he was technologically skilled enough to recognize a real problem when he saw one.

The dull teal pop that was shown at the onset of the audio feed would occur once more, signifying the end of what he had to share as the visor with black.

[Megatron]

Megatron stood there in complete silence as his most honored advisors answered the question, each in their own way and manner. — The answers were expected, bitter though some parts of them were. Megatron too had bitter parts — bitter parts which hoped for a direct reason, a problem to solve, an obstacle to tackle, a person to kill, an enemy to dominate. But nothing of the sort presented itself when it came to the Hymn, progress was what it was and he could do nothing to hasten it. It could never hurt to pay his scientist a visit and to touch base in recognition of Soundwave's meticulous record of her activates and reports, but it would not speed them along.

His lieutenants spoke the truth—one more of it than the other.

And yet...It was nonetheless disappointing and hollow to know the reality. It was not the kind of "disappointing" that evoked anger in the old Warlord. He was past that point now and it had no place in this moment. Though he would never admit to feeling it, his Spark instead felt the slightest touch of sadness. It moved him to speak in an orderly and realistic manner — a rare moment of clarity for one of Megatron's caliber and unshakable will.

"You have spoken..." he regarded them both in an even, steel-cold tone, "...and gave me something to consider."

The silence became unceremonious, a specter haunting the room. It lingered in the atmosphere like dense vapor, a thick mist obfuscating all conversation. No one dared speak. The Warlord moved his hands uneasily — and with unease still, he leaned over the table again. A click, a snap. The intangible weapon was gone. No magnificent requiem sounded to break the unceremonious with ceremony... Nor would it for a long time.

"Considering our limited resources," he began with a grim voice, "I command that we focus on recovering the Nemesis above all other matters—including the Hymn, the reconstruction of which will be suspended for the time being."

The time being but not indefinitely. That is what Megatron would have liked to hope.

"I will also speak with Sparkplug personally and ensure that the location of this off-site outpost and the recovered components therein are both secured for future use."

He turned towards Starscream, dagger-eyed, iron-minded.

"If you would make any contributions of your own, make them known now. I wish to know what my second-in-command thinks — other than foolhardy delusions of Autobot assistance."

A proper opportunity to speak for once, perhaps encouraged by the fact that they could consolidate their resources for a brisk moment, setting aside the magnanimous challenge posed by his most beloved weapon... Though they would all do well to remember that suspended did not mean abandoned. He would still see it done, one day. The spark of determination was hidden behind the optics of an iron tyrant, whose plans were only shackled by the crude joke of their present circumstances. Were they to ever recover... He would do untold damage to this planet and bring unparalleled victory to himself and his subjects. Such was Megatron — a leader to whom it took but an intake and a head poised high to shake all sadness and limits from his mind, to turn them into focus and grand visions.

[Starscream]

The all too familiar crackle from the mech beside him was the cue Starscream needed to silence himself for the moment. He had not seen the Spymaster’s gentle twitch at Megatron’s earlier words, and so could only assume an update on the weapon was incoming. While Soundwave had been tasked with the recovery efforts for the Nemesis - given it was he who had crashed it into the ocean to begin with - the silver Seeker was sure he had been keeping tabs on Sparkplug and the progress on the weapon itself.

It would be an interesting update indeed. He had been meticulous in his sabotage efforts - pilfering pieces of the weapon before they could be officially logged. The Vehicons who had been recovering said pieces wouldn’t possibly be able to recall what each item looked like, and he had every faith that they would fail to notice them missing when moving them to the other outpost.

Easing his weight back just slightly, he would listen as Sparkplug’s voice came through loud and clear. He had been telling the truth in that he hadn’t spoken with her in some time regarding updates, and so the amount of progress that had been made was certainly staggering indeed. Even despite his own efforts, it seemed things were going well - which was something of a concern.

Despite this worry, there were no tell-tale signs of outward emotion. His faceplate remained neutral, with wings held level and steady at his back. At least there had been progress, even if his own priority had been mostly elsewhere - meaning their Warlord should be pleased at hearing the reports.

The only time he moved was at the mention of a lensing assembly. A glance was given to Soundwave, optics narrowing ever so slightly.

He knew that part.

He had that part - or was damn certain he did, anyway.

Oh, fate truly smiled upon him this day. His processor had been racing, thinking up ways to slow down the progress on tracking down any unused space bridges that could be torn apart - though given that was Soundwave’s domain entirely, there was probably not much to be done.

But this changed everything, and he was doing all he could not to smile - a feat made easier at hearing Megatron speak once more. Optics shifting to the Warlord, his gaze locked upon him as the silence lingered almost to the point of uncomfortableness.

He watched, silently, as the wire frame of the weapon vanished with one simple movement - though with it came no words.

Did they know? Did they somehow know that part specifically was in his possession? Was the point of this silence to unnerve him to the point he spoke up first? Was this a test?

Perhaps it was only a matter of mere minutes, but eventually, Megatron spoke - and again Starscream’s attention would fall back onto the imposing mech as he continued, nodding at his words.

He wouldn’t break that optic contact, even as Megatron turned his own attention toward him. With a gentle twitch of his wings, he shook his helm.

“I believe I have nothing of note to add, and agree our priority should be on the Nemesis retrieval.” because what good was rebuilding the damn weapon if they had nowhere to mount it, after all. “I can redirect some of our Vehicon's from our mining operations to assist in the recovery efforts, should they be needed.”

He wasn’t sure what progress - if any - had been made by Soundwave, or how he planned to even go about removing their ship from the depths, though they certainly had the manpower to spare should it be required.

“Should they not, I may take some of our better fliers and begin my search for Knock Out." He paused, clawed fingertips pressing against each other nervously as a thought hit him. "U-Unless you wish for me to seek out Thundercracker first, and learn of the reasoning for his absence from the earlier meeting?”

He hadn’t forgotten Megatron’s words - they were almost haunting, in a way.

"Rein Thundercracker in and keep his leash short."

[Soundwave]

When silence settled after the great Warlord seemed to recognize that forward progression wasn't going to manifest with their current component list, Soundwave simply let it linger as long as necessary, offering no solutions or ideas to advance forward since he had none that would make any difference. It did not bother him, for acceptance sometimes was a bitter pill to try to swallow.

While it may have felt like an oppressive moment to some, such a thing did not last terribly long, a click sounding as the tabletop display fizzled away into nothing and the topic of the Nemesis came up once more, only to be derailed by Starscream's mention of Knock Out and Thundercracker despite the topic already being brushed past.

Soundwave did not often interject in a discussion, typically intent to let things ride out and offer what he knew at choice points when prompted. Such things meant that individuals, such as Starscream, would often stammer something out to fill a silence, creating snares and loops that could get tangled in their feet to reveal things that may not have otherwise been told. However, that moment wasn't now as he decided that he needed to grasp the previous topic and wrench it back into the forefront with a more brash hand, shoving aside the red mech given larger more beneficial ambitions. It wasn't that Knock Out was useless, far from it, Soundwave simply needed to make his silent voice heard.

While before he tapped his finger down in a soft request, this time Soundwave took a half step forward, his ped placing with the dampened click of his nylon lined joints. While even this could be cast aside, a louder indicator would be impossible to miss, a plate on his chest flaring open to permit one of his data cables to unspool with a rhythmic rattle of its segments aligning into place. Abruptly the data line locked down into the side port of the holo-table, taking charge of it instead of letting either utilize it for a possible next topic.

With a flicker, it would re-activate.

The display showed the arching wireframe of the Space Bridge that was located within the underground cavern, its immense mass unable to be properly depicted upon such a modest screen. While it was nowhere near the one that they had in orbit that the Autobots had decimated, its value could not be overlooked. A line stretched across its inner diameter with a numerical point noting how wide it was before the viewpoint pulled out to then depict a larger one that was purple that reached past the edges of the circular shape. This one held a similar set of text atop it to the side, showing the larger dimension in comparison, with an added note below that stated 'Current Advancement'. This indicated that Shockwave had indeed found a means for the system to produce a portal beyond its outer frame which was a profound accomplishment, one that Soundwave didn't even think was possible when he dropped the challenge on a whim and wish.

At the top of the projections range the Nemesis was then shown in wireframe as the Space Bridge scaled down properly, a similar purple line going vertical with the same number to show that the ship would be able to travel through it should it go straight on. It was a moment of clarity! A taste of victory! Only for things to change when the ship was inverted into its current configuration and flipped onto its back, a red line hooking across to show the TRUE goal they had to meet in order to use gravity to move a vessel that could not propel itself. It was a sobering reality that the current milestone could do nothing for them in the now...

Unless they changed tactics.

Should Sparkplug be ripped off from her current mission of repairing a weapon that could not be taken to completion, then Soundwave needed her to change gears to a new objective entirely. To not grasp onto this chance would be an act of negligence, and as such the navy mech tapped his finger down gently once, an indication to 'interrupt' any immediate input that could react to the bridge's capability enhancements and lack of use despite it. After this marker, the inverted wireframe of the Nemesis was pulled into the main focus, where a requirement list started to populate on what Soundwave needed from their manufacturer.

The most notable being heavy liquid and air pumps that went far beyond the normal scope of such tools.

He wanted devices that could move vast amounts of water while fighting against pressure and potential leakage that could slip through cracks and seams that may be overlooked, a calculation made that depicted the raw power draw and exertion that would be required. While Soundwave was no engineer, he knew enough to work with math and estimations to give a baseline. With this frame, Sparkplug's name would be on the item request list that included resources that he would need to curate by stolen means, clearly conveying his want to throw her to an entirely different goal. This caused the wireframe of the Nemesis to have its front end flooded with white to indicate air, if such a thing could be possible due to volume, in order to lift its nose enough that gravity would force the ship to move end first rather than bothering to work horizontally.

This goal would damage many parts of the Nemesis in order to create air chambers, as well as having a possibility of crushing chunks of the rear engine fins, however, some additional problems would pale in comparison to letting the Warship continue to rot at the bottom of the sea waiting for a scientific goal that may be impossible to meet.

Calmly, Soundwave eased back into his idle posture with a curious tilt of his helm, though left the current material list up, one that included the asymmetrical femme right at the top in green, though a grandiose power source was second since they would require a strong enough system to fuel the devices to begin with.

While they were not set up to reach such a result immediately, an end could be seen through the hazy filter of dark waters.

[Megatron]

Megatron was very nearly ready to stress to Starscream, quite thoroughly, what had already been discussed. He edged closer to the silver mech, as if to confront him in a manner rather too harsh for professional environment, when suddenly, Soundwave interjected in a way only Soundwave could. The Warlord stepped back, returned to his initial position, and folded his hands behind his back once more. His Spymaster did not defuse the situation so much as he subdued his master's irritation.

The plan was laid out before them now. Megatron observed.

The pertinence of this information was well-received, and whether Soundwave knew it or not, he saved Starscream from further scolding and perhaps even an addition of some labors which would have otherwise gone unsaid. Megatron watched intently now as the display changed in accordance with Soundwave's proposition.

He took in the SpaceBridge readouts, the incredible and bold plan, which would not have been possible for any less skilled a data analyst than the one displaying it now. He considered the important wealth of materials needed that would amount to nothing had they not the scientists... There was potential, which was more than could be said for the current state of their progress on the Hymn.

Slowly, his disgruntled, focused expression contorted into a grin. He was pleased with Soundwave, who had upstaged Starscream in the Warlord's optics, and clearly stole away the negative attention and turned it into something positive.

After all, it was no secret that the navy mech had ever been his most loyal and trusted follower. Some would even say that he was the Warlord's sole confidant, but this moment here went beyond his regular modus operandi, including the bold and sudden interruption. Megatron could see that this was more than mere logic, mere numbers, or plain dedication. This was an apology. Finally, finally something to work with! A concrete plan dreamed by the mind who, in its sickness, caused the predicament it was now solving.

Were it only that every Decepticon could take such responsibility.

He quickly dismissed the unrealistic thought and fully addressed the display.

"Fine work, Soundwave," he commented idly at first, glancing with that coy grin in Starscream's direction for the briefest of moments. Was it supposed to mean something? Was Megatron trying to rile up his Second-in-Command for no reason? Or was it simply that even looking at Starscream knocked down his mood just enough to process the situation rationally.

Perhaps more aligned with the second theory, Megatron continued in a dedicated voice: "However, if we are to succeed, we must furbish this effort with the required workforce and equipment as soon as possible." The Warlord removed his arms from his back and crossed them over his chest instead.

"You may inform Sparkplug that she is to terminate her current efforts—immediately. I shall discuss the details of her... reassignment... myself, in person. As for the procurement of materials, we can expediate the logistical effort by organizing covert raiding parties on human cargo transports."

Ships, trains, trucks. Anything that could be attacked at night, covertly, by a group of operatives or even a single one of their own, would rapidly cover the deficit of resources they now faced. Megatron knew this could—and would—attract the attention of the Autobots or perhaps even draw in human observers if they were not careful, but they did not have the luxury of choice. This would expose them to some extent.

A necessary risk.

"Starscream," he finally turned to his Second-in-Command yet again, "You will spearhead these parties with my oversight."

[Starscream]

No sooner had the silver Seeker spoken up with his question, did he realize that it probably would’ve served him well to remain silent. Megatron’s movements spoke far louder than any words ever could, and while he was certain harsh words would’ve followed - it seemed Soundwave had other plans. The gentle tap of a single digit was unfortunately lost on Starscream, though it was the simple movement from the navy mech that seemed to pull their Master’s attention away, with his own gaze shifting that way a moment later.

He’d shrank in on himself without even realizing, and only when the Warlord returned to his initial position at the desk did Starscream ease upright, wings gently flaring out as they settled into their neutral state. Both arms would loop behind his back once more as he bled off some of the tension unseen, thumb claw scratching against his other servo as he held his attention on just what Soundwave had to ‘say’.

He watched the various wireframes with mild interest, though would occasionally glance toward Megatron - trying to get a read of his faceplate and any possible thoughts regarding what was being shown. He had his own opinions on the matter, however had quickly learned to keep those to himself, choosing to remain silent throughout the entirety of the display.

It was about time. They’d been without the Nemesis for far too long, and it was almost insulting that it’d taken Soundwave this long to reveal any sort of concrete plan. Perhaps he had planned this, waiting for Megatron to return before revealing this grandiose idea, if only to regain his favor. He was the one to crash the Nemesis, after all, thus setting the Decepticons back further in this never ending war.

If he had done the same, he doubted he would be standing here right now.

These thoughts were quickly interrupted by Megatron’s voice, and another glance was given in the Warlord’s direction, catching the grin in the process. While he would have no obvious reaction aside from quickly averting his gaze back to the wireframe itself, he paused in his subtle movement - thumb claw digging ever so slightly into his servo, as if reminding himself to keep quiet.

Despite his silence, he would nod at Megatron’s next words, showing that he agreed. This would be no easy task, with significant risk to see it through - though he was certain with their numbers it would be manageable. A benefit, too, in that the majority of their forces would be looking for the required materials, with not so much focus on that damned Hymn.

Shifting his weight as he was once again addressed, he would turn to look at Megatron - nodding once more as he carefully unlooped his arms, letting them rest at his sides.

“Of course, Lord Megatron. To our benefit, the humans usually keep cargo manifests - which I am sure Soundwave can easily acquire - meaning it will not be hard to track down and locate the majority of the things we need, to the point we can start immediately should you wish.”

Anything that wasn’t listed? Well, it wouldn’t be too hard to find, he was sure.

[Soundwave]

Despite Starscream's thoughts on the matter, Soundwave had not intentionally delayed his report, instead wanting to make sure there was a solid enough foundation in place before he even tried to propose anything. Ever since the downfall of the Nemesis, there were numerous things he was continuously comparing and judging every day, seeing what objects may start to stick, and which could be culled due to incompatibility or even impossibility. To bother either Megatron or Starscream with what was effectively a 'How about this!' only to swiftly move to 'Oh... never mind...' was not how he functioned.

This said... the advancements on the Space Bridge he had known about and could have brought up sooner, though in his opinion it was one step forward that revealed some new possibilities rather than opening the door to a solid plan. The need for Sparkplug had been there from the onset of this, only, Megatron was so dedicated to task with the weapon that it felt unwise to try to pry him off course when he was so dead set on a goal. While he was well aware that he had more sway in guiding the Warlord than most others, he also knew his place and would step back to think of other options.

Until he saw the gap that he needed to slam the wedge into.

Knowing he could take charge of Sparkplug's current course was all the confirmation he needed to run forward and begin setting Decepticons to task. It would take time for the engineer to accomplish her assignment, and he hoped that others would be done with their own around the same frame if not sooner. He just needed to compare their workforce to other plans that Megatron or Starscream may have rolling already outside of this meeting to streamline it all.

At this thought, Soundwave's inky visor turned slowly to look over at the Skylord, watching how he responded to questioning with passive compliance that he had mastered so well through the years. There was a note made, however, one to seek him out after the fact to have a 'chat' without Megatron's oppressive power looming overhead. It wasn't a profoundly advertised capability, yet he knew that Starscream had scientific foundations, and an added set of eyes on possible technical issues would accomplish only good things, even if it was nothing more than confirmation.

After this quiet look, Soundwave offered a soft nod in regard to obtaining cargo manifests, knowing that while it would take him time to jump through back doors to find what materials they needed, it was not an impossible task and could still be accomplished quickly.

While the navy mech had nothing more to input at this juncture, the data line continued to remain locked into place, his focus moving back to Megatron to wait and see what else may be asked of him.

[Megatron]

Megatron thanked Soundwave for his contributions with a small incline of the helm in return. It was an almost invisible gesture, but one that would nonetheless be familiar to the Spymaster as a show of mutual respect and familiarity. Few could ever consider the Warlord familiar enough to recognize such subtleties or to even see him perform them so wordlessly towards their person, but Soundwave was different. Words were often unnecessary and the acknowledgement of one-another could speak more than thousands of them.

On the other hand, for Starscream, words were often all there ever was. Action too, yes, but ultimately, Megatron and he could never see optic-to-optic like the Spymaster could. A grave irony that Starscream's much more outward personality and presentation muddled the waters—and indeed, Megatron found himself deep in the proverbial swamp muck at this very moment.

"I do not wish it, Starscream," he commented tersely. Perhaps his demeanor was the aftershock of past pains brought to the surface today, not least of which was the reminder of the Second-In-Command's gross blunder at Haven. Indeed, ever since then the tone and air in the room had grown... different... more stagnant.

Starscream should feel fortunate that his lord was a master of finding opportunity in the ruined, discarded, and worthless. Perhaps their little "disagreements" could breed new opportunity as well, but he would not discuss it with them tonight, and instead reinforced the necessity for raw materials by his following words.

"I command it."

A deep rumble, like the cavernous roar of a mystical beast rather than the barked commands of a leader in a sense of urgency: "Begin as soon as you are able."

Then, he regarded Soundwave once again: "Make the necessary preparations and issue an alert to our forces about the decision. I would have everyone know that the Nemesis is now our primary objective."

They had to be on the same page—all of them. Misinformation and miscommunication were the enemy of progress. Every soldier, every Vehicon, every officer, petty and appointed, would know that they had a single goal under a unified leadership. The Nemesis would be recovered from the depths, he'd sworn to them. On this planet, it was their greatest advantage and their greatest loss.

The hymn, the symphony of destruction, could wait. — For now, a prelude would do.