Art Career Tips, 2021 Edition
Here’s an edited version of my 2019 answered ask, because... this feels relevant.
It is a problem of capitalism that folks equate their income as a judgement of their value as people; and let me preface. You are worth so much. You have inherent value in this world. Your income is not a judgement on who you are (plenty of billionaires are actively making the world worse). LARPing self-confidence will go a long way to helping you get paid more for your work, because clients will believe that you know what you are doing, and are a professional.
& real quick—my own background is that I’ve been living off my art since 2018. I went to art school (Pratt Institute). I work in a publishing/educational materials sphere, and a quarter of my income is my shop. Not all of this information may apply to you, so it is up to you to look through everything with a critical eye, and spot pick what is relevant.
So there are multiple ways of getting income as an artist;
Working freelance or full-time on projects
Selling your stuff on a shop
Licensing (charging other companies to use your designs)
This post primarily covers the freelance part; if you’re interested in the other bits there is absolutely info out there on the internet.
IF you are just starting (skip to next section if not applicable) dream big, draw often (practice helps you get better/more efficient), do your best to take "a bad piece” lightly. You’re gonna RNG this shit. At some point your rate of “good” works will get higher. Watch tutorial videos & read books. A base understanding of “the rules”; anatomy, perspective, composition, color helps you know what the rules are to break them. This adds sophistication to your work. One way you can learn this stuff is by doing “studies”—you’re picking apart things from life, or things other people have done, to see what works, and how it works.
Trying to turn your interests into a viable career means that you are now a SMALL BUSINESS; it really helps to learn some basic marketing, graphic design, figure out how to write polite customer service emails; etc. You can learn some of this by looking it up, or taking skillshare (not sponsored) classes by qualified folks. Eventually some people may get agents to take care of this for them—however, I do recommend y’all get a basic understanding of what it takes to do it on your own, just so you can know if your agent is doing a good job.
Making sure your portfolio fits the work you want to get
Here is a beginner portfolio post.
Research the field you’d like to get into. The amount people work, the time commitment, the process of making the thing, the companies & people who work for them.
Create work that could fit in to the industry you’re breaking into. For example, if you want to do book cover illustration, you draw a bunch of mockup book covers, that can either be stuff you make up, or redesigns of existing books. If you’re not 100% sure what sort of work is needed for the industry, loop back into the portfolios of artists in a similar line of work as whatever you’re interested in, and analyze the things they have in common. If something looks to be a common project (like a sequence of action images for storyboard artists), then it’s probably something useful for the job.
CLIENTS HIRE BASED ON HOW WELL THEY THINK YOUR WORK FITS WHAT THEY WANT. If they’re hiring for picture books, they’re gonna want to see picture book art in your portfolio, otherwise they may not want to risk hiring you. Doesn’t have to be 100% the project, but stuff similar enough. If you aren’t hired, it doesn’t mean your work is bad, it just wasn’t the right fit for that specific client.
If you have many interests, make a different section of your portfolio for each!
Making sure you’re relevant
Have a social media that’s a little more public-facing, and follow people in the career field you’re interested in. Fellow artists, art directors, editors, social media managers; whoever. Post on your own schedule.
Interact with their posts every so often, in a non-creepy way.
If you’ve made any contacts, great! Email these artists, art directors, editors, former professors, etc occasional updates on your work to stay in touch AND make sure that they think about you every so often.
Show up to general art events every once in a while! If you keep showing up to ones in your area (when... not dying from a sneeze is a thing), folks will eventually start to remember you.
Industry events & conferences can be pricey, so attend/save up for what makes sense for you. Industry meetups are important for networking in person! In addition to meeting people with hiring power, you also connect with your peers in the community. Always bring a portfolio & hand out business cards like candy.
Active job hunting
Apply to job postings online.
If interested in working with specific people at specific companies, you could send an email “I’d love to work with you, here’s my portfolio/relevant experience”, even if they aren’t actively looking for new hires. Be concise, and include a link to your work AND attached images so the person reading the email can get a quick preview before clicking for more.
Twitter job postings can be pretty underpaid! Get a copy of the Graphic Artists’ Guild Handbook Pricing & Ethical Guidelines to know your rate. I once had a twitter post job listing email me back saying that other illustrators were charging less, and I quote, “primarily because they’re less experienced and looking for their first commission”. This was not okay! For reference, this was a 64-illustration book. The industry rate of a children’s book (~36 pages) is $10k+, and this company’s budget was apparently $1k. For all of it.
Congrats you got a job! Now what?
Ask for like, 10% more than they initially offer and see if they say yes. If they do, great! If not, and the price is still OK, great! Often company budgets are slightly higher than they first tell you, and if you get this extra secret money, all the better for you.
Make sure you sign a contract and the terms aren’t terrible (re: GO GET THE Graphic Artists’ Guild Handbook Pricing & Ethical Guidelines)
Be pleasant and easy to work with (Think ‘do no harm but take no shit’)
Communicate with them as much as needed! If something’s going to be late, tell them as soon as you know so they aren’t left wondering or worse, reaching out to ask what’s up.
And if all goes well, they’ll contact you about more jobs down the line, or refer you to other folks who may need an artist, etc.
Quick note about online shops/licensing and why they’re so good
It’s work that you do once, that you continuously make money off of. Different products do well in different situations (conventions vs. online, and then further, based on how you market/the specific groups you are marketing to), so products that may not do well initially may get a surge later on.
Start with things that have low minimum order quantity and are relatively cheap to produce, like prints and stickers.
If you are not breaking even, go back to some of the earlier portions of this and think about how you could tweak things as a small business. Ease of access is also very important with this; for example, if you only take orders through direct messages, that immediately shuts off all customers who don’t like talking to strangers.
Quick resource that you could look through; it’s the spreadsheet of project organizing that I made a while back
Licensing is when people pay you for the right to use your work on stuff they need to make, like textbooks or greeting cards. This is generally work you’ve already made that they are paying the right to use for a specified time or limited run of products. This is great because you’ve already done the work. I am not the expert on this. Go find someone else’s info.
“I am not physically capable of working much”/ “I need to pay the bills”
Guess who got a hand injury Sept 2020 that messed me up that entire month! I had a couple jobs going at the time that I was terrified of losing, but they were quite understanding when I told them I needed to heal. So: Express your needs as early as you know you need them. Also do lots of stretches and rest your hands whenever you feel anything off; this will save your health later. Like, the potential of a couple months of no income was preferable over losing use of my hands for the rest of my life.
This continues to apply if you have any other life situation. Ask for extra time. Ask for clarification. If you tell people ahead of time, folks are often quite understanding. Know how much you are capable of working and do your best not to overdo it. (I am.. bad at this)
Do what MAKES SENSE for your situation. If doing art currently earns you less money than organizing spreadsheets, then do that for now, and whenever you have the energy, break down some of the tips above into actionable tiny chunks, and slowly work at em.
The original ask I got in 2019 mentioned ‘knowing you’re not good enough yet’. Most artists experience imposter syndrome & self-doubt—the important thing is to do your best, and if anything, attempt to channel the confidence of a mediocre white man. If he can apply to this job/charge hella money for Not Much, then so can you!
Check out this Art Director tumblr for more advice!
Danichuatico’s Literary Agent guide
Kikidoodle’s Shop Shipping Tutorial
Best of luck!
–
Once again disclaimer this post is just the ramblings of a man procrastinating on other things that need to be done. I’ve Long Posted my own post so that it turns into mush in my brain if I try to read it, but I wrote this so I should know this content. If you got down here, congrats. Here’s a shrimp drawing.
Yee Ha.
My reference post tag
My tip jar
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May 31 Blurr’s Horror Stream - Villanos & The Lego Batman Movie
Multiple people objected strenuously to Starscream’s assertion that Megatron could be his nemesis, despite the fact that they’re on the same side and Megatron obviously doesn’t see Starscream as his nemesis. Two different pairs of people went “I’d be honored to have you as a nemesis.” “Aww~” Bevel officially signed on with Blurr’s crew. Prowl showed up in a foul mood, stayed in a foul mood, and left in a foul mood.
Missed the start.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Frenzy sticks where he is, but Rumble runs over to hang out.*
B l u r r: / shoves the stuff off his couch and just slouches /
ItsyBitsySpyers: //I love that line.//
B l u r r: Which line?
Whirl: *he is welcome, as always, to join*
B l u r r: [[ Kay is everyone ready, then? Cause yall gotta read subtitles for a minute ]]
ItsyBitsySpyers: //The shoe thing.//
B l u r r: Ah... yes. Classic line.
Sunstreaker: [[ ready ]]
FakeProwl: ((still ready))
Whirl: *gets re-settled* Well, you've got my number, Teach.
B l u r r: Mmhm... I know.
Bevel: [[still ready
Whirl: ((and ye))
B l u r r: [[ kay im gonna assumeeveryone's ready then ]]
B l u r r: *everyone else ]]
B l u r r: Anyway, being back on Earth connected me with a ton of new scrap to watch. So.
B l u r r: [[ this cartoon is the only thing i want to see on tv for months tbh. ]]
Whirl: *snorts*
Whirl: Oh, hey. Brainstorm made one of those.
Starscream: ((This is great
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Soundwave needs that.*
Whirl: ((I like their little mook))
B l u r r: / he likes it because it reminds him of him and Blaster /
Starscream: hehehe
B l u r r: [[ and daaas it. ]]
FakeProwl: ((i'm love))
Starscream: ((what's it called
B l u r r: [[ That's all we have so far anyway. But *lifts leggie* is my new cartoon ]]
B l u r r: [[ Villanos ]]
Bevel: [[that looks awesome
FakeProwl: ((they're gonna start making full episodes soon?))
B l u r r: [[ yeah. In Mexico. ]]
ItsyBitsySpyers: ((a little frantic but i think i would watch it))
FakeProwl: ((can't wait))
Whirl: ((not something I'd watch on my own, but seems all right enough))
B l u r r: [[ Tbh the english version sucks ]]
B l u r r: [[ Black Hat sounds boring ]]
B l u r r: [[ he sounds better in spanish. And Flug sounds better in spanish too ]]
FakeProwl: ((it might be frantic because right now they're just making mid-commercial mini episodes?))
Starscream: ((was that spanish?
B l u r r: yeah ]]
B l u r r: [[ yeah, theyre minisodes between commercials ]]
B l u r r: [[ like bumps. The longer episodes will be better ]]
Bevel: [[hopefully it's scheduling isn't as weird as SU
Starscream: ((I understood a surprising amount, I speak Italian
B l u r r: [[ depends on where it's gonna fit on the US lineup ]]
B l u r r: [[ the lineup in Mexico is relying on Villanos, apparently, to revive Cartoon Network ]]
B l u r r: [[ and since it's a show about the villains, they think it'll work out well enough ]]
Whirl: ((hopefully it does well there!))
B l u r r: god i hope so cause i love it ]]
FakeProwl: ((it's fun!! I wish it well))
Tarantulas: (( crosses ALL the fingers
FakeProwl: ((I like all the characters. Except the bear, but I can put up with a derpy sidekick animal.))
B l u r r: the only one I don't like is Dementia because she's the typical "in love with the villain" type ]]
Sunstreaker: [[ i love the bear. him cute. ]]
Whirl: ((I like the mook!))
B l u r r: but apparently the longer episodes will make her more fleshed out ]]
Whirl: ((everyone else is kinda blah, but I have a weakness for mooks))
Bevel: [[i liked dementia until she pulled the rawr thing with the statue
B l u r r: LOL the bear is a failed experiment on Black Hat's part. And Flug. ]]
FakeProwl: ((she could be either really good or really bad, but I tend to give the benefit of the doubt to obsessively-in-love characters.))
Whirl: ((Yes, Flug))
B l u r r: [[ SO its like his messy child ]]
Whirl: ((hence the airplane shirt))
B l u r r: [[ anyway. Y'all ready for this lego thing? ]]
FakeProwl: ((ye!!))
ItsyBitsySpyers: ((*SLAMS HANDS DOWN* YES))
Sunstreaker: [[ 5.0.5. I even like the bear's name ]]
B l u r r: [[ BUT im glad u guys like my dumb cartoon choice ]]
Sunstreaker: [[ i like everything about the beb ]]
Whirl: ((YEE LEGO BATMAN))
Bevel: [[yes yes definitely yes
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Rumble frowns. Is that true? Why isn't Crosscut here?*
Whirl: *snorts*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *He would know.*
B l u r r: / leans back on couch and kcks pedes up /
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Frag's an ab?//
B l u r r: Muscles.
Whirl: Those stomach bumps. *pats his own bump-less stomach*
Whirl: Heh, slick. Of course they took a chopper.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *What a lovely face.*
Whirl: ((this is so great already))
FakeProwl: ((this is the best joker))
B l u r r: [[ my favorite joker ]]
Bevel: *pats stomach, metal plates probably don't count as abs but she has like five of them*
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Ohhhh! Okay! I remember this Batman fragger. TC showed this stuff, yeah?//
ItsyBitsySpyers: \\THINK SO.\\
ItsyBitsySpyers: //...He got enough henchmen?//
B l u r r: [[ they really ARE all real, too ]]
B l u r r: theyre all canon characters ]]
Whirl: ((YEP))
Whirl: ((i was sitting there going "ok when they gonna say calendr man"))
Starscream: Humans come up with the strangest names for themselves
Whirl: I dunno, I say, if you're gonna do it, do it right. Get as many henchmen as possible,
B l u r r: Henchmen are good.
Sunstreaker: [[ tag urself i'm condiment king ]]
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Pff. If they was real good, he wouldn't need more'n seven.//
Starscream: Henchmen are backstabbers
Starscream: I would know
Whirl: ((Gentleman Ghost))
FakeProwl: ((im the dude with the clock head))
Whirl: ((Clock King!))
Whirl: Well, I mean, you're also YOU.
Whirl: Who WOULDN'T wanna backstab you?
B l u r r: My crew works together right. No one wants to mutiny.
Whirl: ...or Megatron, for that matter.
Starscream: I meant that I backstab Megatron
ItsyBitsySpyers: \\WHO THE FRAG'S THE CITY PLANNER!?\\
Starscream: I was tolerable once, I was backstabbed one too many times
Whirl: No. I can't believe that.
Whirl: YOU? Tolerable?
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Rumble giggles. A tolerable Starscream.*
B l u r r: You?
Starscream: Yes really
B l u r r: Impossible.
Whirl: *places claw dramatically over his chest*
B l u r r: Starscream has never been tolerable.
Whirl: ((also this is like. GREAT ACTION MOVIE DIRECTING TOO))
Starscream: I wasn't born evil you know
ItsyBitsySpyers: \\HAHA!\\
Whirl: SNRK.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Oh, there's music? Now Soundwave is amused.*
Whirl: Anyway--suffice it to say that I don't really believe you, Starscream, and even if you weren't born evil, you WERE born annoying, I'm sure.
Starscream: If that's what you want to think
Whirl: *snickering louder*
ItsyBitsySpyers: \\BRO. WE -GOTTA- GET US SOME MUSIC.\\
Whirl: YES, you two do.
Whirl: And a weaponized electric guitar.
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Frag yeah.//
Bevel: *perks at weaponized guitar* I could totally make that.
ItsyBitsySpyers: //...Wait, yeah?//
Whirl: Yeah? *looks to her*
Starscream: is that... an inuendo
ItsyBitsySpyers: ((YOU'RE BREAKING HIS HEART, BATS))
Whirl: Also, that's harsh. Damn,
Whirl: That's not how you treat your nemesis.
FakeProwl: ((look at his little face))
Whirl: ...also, uh. That bomb.
B l u r r: [[ poor joker. ]]
Bevel: Yeah!
B l u r r: That's not how my nemesis treats me.
Whirl: Well, you need to get a better nemesis.
Starscream: I wish Megatron treated me that well
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[A good nemesis is worthy of respect.]] A long pause. [[Plenty of hatred and loathing. But respect.]]
Whirl: You're young--it takes time. I'm sure you'll find that special someone.
Whirl: And, hot damn, Sh-- ... Bevel.
Whirl: I'd love to see it.
B l u r r: I'm not even sure if I have a nemesis...
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Seriously. Ya make one 'n I get dibs.//
B l u r r: / taps chin /
Whirl: If you don't know, then you don't.
Bevel: *she is already mentally trying to figure weapon guitar out* Ok.
Whirl: Ther4e's nothing quite like that special firsson of homicidal rage, respect, and bloodlust you get when you make a proper nemesis. *sighs*
Starscream: For a human that was a pretty impressive flight skills
Whirl: ...*frisson damn
B l u r r: / frowns/ I wouldn't consider Rodimus worthy of being my nemesis... more like a rival.
B l u r r: And a pain in the aft.
ItsyBitsySpyers: \\BET I COULD TAKE HIM.\\
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Duh. He's meat.//
Whirl: Yeah, a rival is not a nemesis.
Starscream: Megatron's an awful nemesis, I need to find a better one
Whirl: He's not a nemesis. He's your boss.
Whirl: Or, well, was, I guess.
Starscream: He is so
Whirl: It's, like... you can't be someone's nemesis if you're THEIR punching bag.
B l u r r: ... true.
Starscream: I almost killed him
B l u r r: That doesn't mean anything.
B l u r r: That just means you didn't succeed in murder.
Starscream: I took over from him three times, every time I did a better job than he did
Whirl: Starscream, that's just... depressing.
Whirl: You need to go get yourself a nemesis.
FakeProwl: ((of all the nights for prowl to not be here))
ItsyBitsySpyers: ((*makes grabbyhands at him*))
B l u r r: I want one...
B l u r r: / taps chinplate/ But, not sure who's worthy enough
Whirl: Like I said, Blurr--you're young.
Whirl: And you're tough. You've got nemesis potential for someone else, easy.
FakeProwl: ((he'd be clawing at his seat hearing starscream talk about megatron being nemesis and whirl saying starscream needs a proper one))
B l u r r: /rolls optic / I doubt it.
ItsyBitsySpyers: ((*DRAGS HIM OVER i say*))
Starscream: It's my life's mission to get rid of him, if that isn't a nemesis what is?
Whirl: ((LORD. POOR PROWL))
B l u r r: No one assumes I'm their nemesis
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[There is an entire multiverse of mechs waiting to get on your very last neural net sensor.]]
Whirl: ((omfg0)
ItsyBitsySpyers: ((I LOVE THAT BIT))
B l u r r: [[ yes! ]]
FakeProwl: ((this movie is great))
ItsyBitsySpyers: ((god i love this *** movie and it only gets better))
B l u r r: [[ it does ]]
ItsyBitsySpyers: \\SOUNDS LIKE ME.\\
Whirl: Same, Frenzy. *snrks*
Whirl: Also, Starscream, face it--you were his punching bag.
B l u r r: Well, how am I supposed to knowif I have a nemesis?
B l u r r: Are they going to tell me?
Bevel: Snake clowns. *laughs*
Whirl: Like I said--you'll KNOW.
B l u r r: I doubt that. /crosses arms and sulks/
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[No. They will simply aggravate you more than anything else in the entirety of existence possibly could.]]
Whirl: You'll feel it. It's a one-of-a-kind feeling.
B l u r r: [[ this is me ]]
B l u r r: [[ ME ]]
Starscream: ((me
Whirl: ((IM DYING0)
ItsyBitsySpyers: ((it's true i can confirm))
Bevel: [[tuxedo dress up party is definitely the only way to get me to a party
Whirl: *CRACKS UP*
ItsyBitsySpyers: ((it puff))
Starscream: I wasn't his punching bag, I'm better than he could ever be
Whirl: ((FUC.FG. POLE DANCING))
FakeProwl: ((my cd rack doesn't fall apart))
B l u r r: [[ I LOVE THE VILLAINS ]]
B l u r r: ... but I know plenty of people that aggravate me.
B l u r r: / flexes claws/ What is it supposed to feel like when you have a nemesis?
Whirl: Keep telling yourself that, Starscream. Either way, I'm done talking about your sad, sad life.
B l u r r: There's a line of people that want to kill me.
Starscream: My life is happy I'll have you know
Starscream: ((that's horrible
B l u r r: [[ THIS DSBFD ]]
ItsyBitsySpyers: //That. It's kinda like that. Only ya wanna slaughter 'em instead.//
ItsyBitsySpyers: //So more like... "Yer gonna die in my arms tonight."//
_Whirl: Pfft!
Bevel: Ha.
B l u r r: That sounds weird...
_Whirl: Like I said: they make you feel homicidal and weirdly respectful all at once.
B l u r r: / scratches helm / I usually think that about a lot of people.
ItsyBitsySpyers: ((STATISTIIIIIICS))
B l u r r: / slouches and grumbles/ I'm not gonna find one of those...
FakeProwl: ((why did i decide not to bring prowl oh my god))
ItsyBitsySpyers: ((IT'S NOT TOO LATE))
_Whirl: Well, maybe not.
_Whirl: *shrugs* Certainly not if you mope about it.
FakeProwl: ((... yeah ok.))
_Whirl: Be assertive! Seize your nemesis!
_Whirl: ((DO IT))
Starscream: Okay if you respect them than Megatron definitely isn't my nemesis
B l u r r: I don't have anyone to seize!
_Whirl: Not YET.
FakeProwl: *... appears late*
B l u r r: / VENTS / That's annoying.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Immediate ping. Hello.*
_Whirl: I already told you, you're young, I'm not gonna LABOR the point to make you feel better. *deadpan stare*
FakeProwl: *he desperately wants a distraction*
B l u r r: Young and constantly in a state of extinction
FakeProwl: *takes seat and focuses on screen*
_Whirl: Like many of us.
Starscream: proper ethics pfft
Starscream: who needs that
_Whirl: See, look how useful an army of henchmen is!
B l u r r: [[ i love that he's still a master builder. ]]
Starscream: Henchmen are nothing but trouble, watch them mess something u[
Starscream: *up
B l u r r: Henchmen are good if you're a great planner.
FakeProwl: ((these movies may be nonsense but they have Continuity))
_Whirl: I mean, I can understand how you'd get nothing but bad henchmen if you're working with a dearth of charisma.
Bevel: Barbara is kicking all their butts. Awesome.
Starscream: I am a good planner, henchmen are nothing but trouble
_Whirl: Hey, Ravage is in this movie...
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Frenzy nudges Bevel.* \\BETCHA CAN'T DO *THAT*.
Bevel: Yeah maybe. *sticks tongue out at Frenzy*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Boy, this sounds familiar*
FakeProwl: *it does*
Starscream: why is he flirting with everyone
FakeProwl: ... What's going on.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Incoming summary and highlight reel?*
B l u r r: You're a good planner?
FakeProwl: *... oh no. he sympathizes with joker*
B l u r r: /snort/ Oh, please.
Starscream: yes, I am
B l u r r: The henchmen aren't your problem
B l u r r: It's your planning.
B l u r r: Look, I can get mechs to attack in a uniform formation..
_Whirl: Man, and what a masterful strike.
_Whirl: Hitting his nemesis where it hurts. Very clever.
Starscream: So can I, when they aren't backstabbing me
ItsyBitsySpyers: *LOUD HUFF*
B l u r r: If you're a backstabber, then you're expecting too much from henchmen
Starscream: true
B l u r r: you can't complain about someone backstabbing you.
Starscream: Doesn't mean I'm bad at planning though
FakeProwl: *the guy with the nemesis who doesn't acknowledge him who surrendered to his nemesis. annnd he's a bad guy. rip.*
B l u r r: Sure it does.
B l u r r: You backstab because your plans are loose.
FakeProwl: *focus on the police commissioner. prowl approves of her completely.*
B l u r r: If your plans were truly masterful, then you wouldn't need to backstab
Starscream: Megatron is my leader, any act against him would be backstabbing
Starscream: technically speaking
_Whirl: Oh, wait, you mean--you're STILL his punching bag?
_Whirl: *LAUGHS*
B l u r r: backstabbing your leader still means you're poor with planning.
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[What kind of Greatest Detective doesn't notice a human youngling running around their house for a week.]]
_Whirl: He's having a crisis.
FakeProwl: Does he call himself that?
_Whirl: *snickers*
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[Yes.]]
FakeProwl: He's demonstrably wrong.
_Whirl: ((HAHAHA))
FakeProwl: He's got nothing on the police with the—
FakeProwl: ... statistics.
FakeProwl: *annnnnnd now he's sad*
B l u r r: See, now THAT is planning.
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[The Barbara human?]]
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Frenzy looks over at his Boss and squints.*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Soundwave looks down.* [[Don't be ridiculous. You're not expendable.]]
_Whirl: Also--not quiet. Not even remotely. *dryly*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Frenzy huffs noisily (of course) and folds his arms.*
B l u r r: I remember being expendable... /vents/ It was fantastic.
FakeProwl: ... Yes. The Barbara human.
_Whirl: Life gave ME seatbelt.
Starscream: No seatbelts?
_Whirl: Or, well, something very like.
B l u r r: K-Kyeheheh, what's a seat belt.
Starscream: My altmode has seatbelts
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[And that is why external docking is superior.]]
_Whirl: *sits up, pops the lid of his cockpit, and gestures down to the seating inside*
_Whirl: They're in there.
Bevel: *could probably make seatbelts if she wanted but why*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Rumble stands up to try to get a look*
B l u r r: I don't have seat belts...
_Whirl: *shifts to lower his chest so Rumble can see. It's Zori's Former Hiding Spot*
B l u r r: Well, I mean, I think I do...
B l u r r: I almost strangled a human with 'em
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Huh.// *Sits back down.* //We ain't got 'em. Can't nobody wear 'em like Knock Out anyway.//
_Whirl: ((KRYPTO))
Bevel: [[ha ha hal
B l u r r: [[ im the flash ]]
_Whirl: *leans back and snaps his cockpit back* They came with my interior. And... wait, where wre his?
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Them neck ones.// Motions with both hands.
_Whirl: *pauses and tries to remember*
_Whirl: Ohh, wait. Those were seatbelts? Huh.
FakeProwl: *... thinks about knock out's neck*
FakeProwl: *hmmmm*
_Whirl: *tilts his head just the tiniest bit*
B l u r r: /shifts/ Well, let me say. I am glad Thundertron isn't my nemesis
B l u r r: because that whole slaughter would have been a let down.
Starscream: unlimited cookies sounds good
Starscream: maybe I should be a vigilante
_Whirl: *snickers(
_Whirl: I been there. ...maybe not with a dolphin in there.
B l u r r: Same. I just got my weapons stripped off me recently.
B l u r r: It was awkward... but thrilling.
Starscream: I hate being weaponless
_Whirl: *sly look* Optimus did it, then?
B l u r r: K-Kyeheheh. Yes.
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[If only.]]
_Whirl: I'm never weaponless. *clicks his claws*
Starscream: lucky you
B l u r r: Me neither.
B l u r r: Always got weapons installed on me.
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[He's not so sure about the smart part.]]
Starscream: I do too, Megatron tended to tear them out
_Whirl: Yeah, that's never fun.
B l u r r: Well, that sounds like a personal problem.
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Ain't nobody takin' my weapons off. Not unless they don't like their spark no more//
B l u r r: I never let anyone tear mine out.
_Whirl: Had the old chest-guns removed a few times, but I'M basically a weapon, guns or no.
Bevel: I always have weapons.
_Whirl: (9OMG THE GREMLINS))
_Whirl: ((this is greAT)
B l u r r: [[ THE DALEKS! ]]
FakeProwl: *right. okay. all this talk about police and being a hero is just depressing him more. leans on Soundwave*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *...Ah. Yes. This would be a bit of a sting, wouldn't it.*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Wraps arm. Well, maybe something in this will give Prowl a better idea than the one he had last time.*
_Whirl: I like that eyeball guy.
Starscream: The tower just walking away
B l u r r: See, now, I want one of those.
Starscream: Why is there a release all button
_Whirl: ((i'm gonna die))
_Whirl: Sor-on?
_Whirl: I like that one.
B l u r r: [[ I LOVE THE DALEKS ]]
Starscream: hehe
Starscream: ((british robots
B l u r r: Now THAT is how you get henchmen motivated.
_Whirl: He upgraded.
Bevel: Sauron is really evil but he got beat by a ring getting thrown into a volcano.
FakeProwl: *... very effective*
_Whirl: Does that happen in this movie, or...?
B l u r r: Don't think so.
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Think it already did. He was in jail.//
_Whirl: Well, there, he got better!
Bevel: It was in a book. And a movie.
FakeProwl: *mental note: if he ever needs to take dwon Cybertron, arrange a jailbreak.*
B l u r r: It's perfect! /rubs claws together /
B l u r r: I love when the villains get the upper claw!
B l u r r: I hope he makes that hero grovel at his feet.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *...He hopes Prowl does not take THAT advice.*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Just whatever the red furred human has to say.*
_Whirl: *why not prowl should beatbox*
Starscream: We need more shows where the villain wins
B l u r r: MM.
B l u r r: Naturally.
FakeProwl: *prowl would be terrible at beatboxing.*
_Whirl: *but it would bring the rest of us joy*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *It's strange advice, that's why. Even he wouldn't do it. ... Laserbeak might.*
_Whirl: ((movie no why u gotta hurt me like that))
Starscream: lol
_Whirl: ((why u gotta give bane that dumb voice))
B l u r r: [[ omg i know ]]
_Whirl: That eye guy is just. Too cool.
ItsyBitsySpyers: \\THE WORM WAS BETTER.\\
_Whirl: ...yeah.
_Whirl: The worm was, but I appreciate his whole look. ...and the lava-barfing.
FakeProwl: *... rubs helm*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Looks over.*
FakeProwl: *buildings getting knocked down. devastator.*
ItsyBitsySpyers: @P (txt): ...Noise?
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «No. Wanton devastation.»
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Your eye don't barf lava, right?//
_Whirl: *snickering*
B l u r r: It would be an interesting concept...
Starscream: thee lightning has impeccable aim
ItsyBitsySpyers: @P: (txt): ...Understood.
_Whirl: *hand over spark*
_Whirl: He was too good for this film..
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Adds mass building destruction to his list of things to be aware of in the future.*
ItsyBitsySpyers: //So, I'm jus' sayin'. Good costume for this year.//
_Whirl: Hmm? *looks down* Which one?
ItsyBitsySpyers: //The tower thing. Or Batguy.//
_Whirl: Hmm. *taps the underside of his helm* I dunno exactly how I could pull that off... he
_Whirl: s got no limbs.
_Whirl: But he DOES have a cool look.
B l u r r: Is Batman a hero or villain?
B l u r r: He seems like an anti...villain...
Starscream: Both
B l u r r: but an anti-hero.
FakeProwl: *mutters* An idiot.
B l u r r: He doesn't seem capable of doing things alone
B l u r r: It's not that easy.
_Whirl: What about you? Any ideas of your own, from this one?
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Quiet huff*
B l u r r: Hn?
FakeProwl: *"protecting" useful people is a waste of resources that should be better spent protecting everyone else*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Rumble scratches his chin. Soundwave just flicks his hand. If Blurr didn't catch the mutter, it doesn't matter*
Starscream: I told Megatron I hated him the first time we met
_Whirl: This is a movie about nemeses just as much as it is about anything else. This is great.
B l u r r: [[ which mutter because it wasn't clear who it was to >>;; ]]
B l u r r: [[ Whirl and Blurr both have one eye >>;;; ]]
ItsyBitsySpyers: ((prowl was muttering about batman i think))
FakeProwl: ((ye))
B l u r r: [[ oh lmao. ]]
_Whirl: ((yes!))
B l u r r: [[ im typing an assignment on the side so lmao ]]
B l u r r: [[ im lost. ]]
B l u r r: Well, I can think of plenty of mechs I hate.
B l u r r: / taps chin/ only one that I've told.
B l u r r: I usually just kill what annoys me.
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[It's not just -hate-. They have to be worthy. Capable of foiling as many of your moves as you do of theirs.]]
FakeProwl: *... are we talking about nemeses*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Welcome to the party, Prowl*
_Whirl: *pauses thoughtfully* You know, some holographic effects could get that eye thing going...
B l u r r: /crosses arms/ I suppose I
ItsyBitsySpyers: //One of them dinosaur things.//
FakeProwl: *rghgh*
B l u r r: have had plenty of thorns in my side...
_Whirl: Yeah? The... the raptor guy?
B l u r r: It sure as frag isn't Starscream.
B l u r r: He's not worth any respect.
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Yeah. I seen them Park films. They're killer.//
_Whirl: Nice.
Starscream: This movie is inspiring me to kill Megatron again
B l u r r: You haven't even killed him one time.
FakeProwl: Oh, for—!
Starscream: I sort of did... he came back
FakeProwl: You can't be a nemesis with someone on the SAME SIDE as you!
FakeProwl: That's not how it works! That's RIDICULOUS.
Starscream: Why not
B l u r r: You need to learn how to kill people.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Mildly alarmed sitting upright.*
B l u r r: I could educate you. It'll be a one time lesson.
Starscream: We aren't on the same side
ItsyBitsySpyers: *...And now curious leaning. That's an oddly strong feeling.*(
_Whirl: Different Starscream, Prowl.
B l u r r: [[ night wing!! ]]
Starscream: I fight for the Decepticons because I can't be an Autobot, not because I like him
FakeProwl: You're fighting for the same goal, aren't you? For the same faction to win?
Starscream: My goal is to defeat Megatron
_Whirl: ((wait, nix that))
_Whirl: ((thought that was directed at blurr))
B l u r r: [[ is okay. ]]
B l u r r: [[ i did too haha ]]
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Frenzy cackles about the one time death lesson*
B l u r r: / grins at Frenzy/
FakeProwl: That's—ridiculous. YOU'RE ridiculous. That's not how it works. Of all the...
Starscream: Why not? It makes perfect sense to me
B l u r r: You don't make ANY sense.
FakeProwl: That's because you're a moron who doesn't get how nemeses work.
B l u r r: Starscream doesn't know how anything works.
Starscream: Okay, then how do they work
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Yes, do tell. He's quite interested now.*
FakeProwl: You. Are. Supposed. To. Be. On. Opposite. Sides.
_Whirl: I already TOLD you, Starscream, damn.
B l u r r: /vents/ This whole family theme is annoying. Can we go back to the Joker?
B l u r r: I like him.
_Whirl: I explained it IN DETAIL, how thick can you possibly be?
Starscream: We are on opposite sides, he wants to live and I want to kill him
B l u r r: Whirl, it's Starscream.
FakeProwl: You're on the same faction!
B l u r r: It's not your fault he didn't retain anything
Starscream: Just because we are on the same side of the war doesn't mean anything
_Whirl: You're right, Teach.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Soundwave shakes his helm. No wonder his former faction had trouble getting things done.*
FakeProwl: *grumbles, sits back, rubs his optics*
Bevel: *giggles*
B l u r r: [[
B l u r r: * [[ "Im irritating" <-- it me ]]
_Whirl: Okay,w e all know, the only appropriate superhero theme is Shoot to Thrill.
FakeProwl: *he shouldn't have come tonight*
B l u r r: Right?
B l u r r: I wonder if we have a theme song as pirates... /taps chin/
Starscream: If Megabutt isn't my nemesis then who is
ItsyBitsySpyers: @P: (txt): Starscream: idiot. Ignore. Standard Decepticon rule.
Bevel: Bet you could write one. Like Batman did.
B l u r r: [[ i love this part ]]
_Whirl: *approves of this particular brand of family bonding*
_Whirl: *he may or may not be briefly reminded of a dreadful little murdercloud*
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «Yes. He is.»
ItsyBitsySpyers: @P: (txt): Nemesis identity, Prowl's? Insistence suggests experience.
B l u r r: / claw to chassis. So romantic /
FakeProwl: *.....................*
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Awwwwwwww.//
Starscream: So much romance
Starscream: ew
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «None.»
_Whirl: I know, right? *delighted*
_Whirl: Not ROMANCE, idiot.
_Whirl: Nemeses.
B l u r r: I want one of those-!
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Surprised tilt.*
_Whirl: Work for it, Teach.
_Whirl: You'll get there.
Starscream: Really cause they're talking like people who are in love
FakeProwl: *that was a touching nemesis speech, dammit*
_Whirl: You just don't understand, Starscream. *shakes his head*
Starscream: Don't understand what?
B l u r r: Rodimus could have been one of those... but he is an idiot.
B l u r r: [[ I CANNOT WITH THE SPANISH ]]
B l u r r: [[ every damn time, i laugh ]]
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): None? Not understood. Many worthy qualities. Intelligence, persistence, influence, idealism, evasiveness. Satisfactory kick.
FakeProwl: ((... wasn't the Joker one of the "every villain" that Batman promised to send back))
B l u r r: [[ nah ]]
B l u r r: [[ they wanted THEIR villains back ]]
_Whirl: ((sauron is also sort of still there, albeit... dead ish))
FakeProwl: ((but joker WAS one of their villains. for like fifteen minutes, but still.))
FakeProwl: ((longer than batman was there, and batman assumed HE was supposed to go back too))
B l u r r: [[ idk man fbdhk ]]
B l u r r: [[ Joker is weird. ]]
_Whirl: That was a damn good movie, Teach.
_Whirl: I didn't expect to like that nearly as much.
Bevel: Catchy.
FakeProwl: *yeah, soundwave, rub it in why don't you.*
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «None.»
ItsyBitsySpyers: @P: (txt): If recognition: failed, all enemies: unworthy.
B l u r r: /snerk/ I liked it, too
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Was recording that.*
_Whirl: *leans backa nd streeetches*
_Whirl: Not a bad diversion from horror, not at all.
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «... Or, I don't meet their standards.»
Bevel: That was really fun.
B l u r r: Well, stuck on Earth so, I have to come up with something.
B l u r r: Besides, it was about villains... sort of.
ItsyBitsySpyers: \\F'REAL, I LIKED THAT. LOTSA ACTION. WAY BETTER'N THE QUIZ THING.\\
B l u r r: Kyeheheh. What can I say? I'm good at what I do.
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): Impossible. Prowl: admirable. Would accept, if beginning circumstances: different.
B l u r r: Makes me wonder what type of Nemesis I would have...
B l u r r: no one can match me for speed.
_Whirl: Sadly, mine is dead. Or, well, sort of.
_Whirl: A multiversal versiion of him popped up a while back, but he's gone again.
B l u r r: Hnnh.
B l u r r: You don't irritate me, but if you did, I would be incredibly grateful if YOU were my nemesis, Whirl.
FakeProwl: *oh, that's... actually really flattering.*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Jazz will always be the best of them, of course, but he would consider Prowl worth his time. His own could have been, if she'd really dedicated herself. A step above Blaster, or right around there.*
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «... Thank you.»
B l u r r: / smirks and pulls some wiring up from his arm / You're fun to fight with. Imagine if we just fought each other all the time. What a thrill.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Dips his helm.*
Bevel: *has no nemesis and wouldn't even know where to begin with getting one*
_Whirl: Well, damn, Teach. Thanks.
_Whirl: *withoiut knowing, he dips his helm at Blurr at very nearly the exact time Soundwave does to prowl*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Frenzy looks up at Bevel*
B l u r r: / flicks finials and nods /
ItsyBitsySpyers: *...................................................*
ItsyBitsySpyers: \\...NAH. I'D WHOOP YER AFT TOO EASY.\\
_Whirl: Oh, I know I am. *lifts his helm, unabashedly proud* And yeah, you're fast, and that kinetic-thing you've got going is tough to get around... but I bet I could do it.
_Whirl: It'd be a hell of a fight.
B l u r r: All the time.
B l u r r: It would be entertaining. And incredibly thrilling.
B l u r r: But, I don't HATE you. So, it doesn't work, does it?
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): ...Humorous reminder: alliance preferred.
B l u r r: Even though the respect factor is there.
Bevel: *pushes Frenzy over with a grin* Ok, Lil' Bit
ItsyBitsySpyers: \\OOF!\\
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Swings at her arm*
Bevel: *laughs*
_Whirl: Yeah. Like, the respect factor is there, and the DESIRE to fight--but that's just normal friendship.
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «Heh. Same.»
B l u r r: Mmm... but, we could stil lfight sometimes.
B l u r r: If you want to.
_Whirl: Ultimately I don't wanna destroy you, y'know? When you have a nemesis, it's like... that's it. That's the perfect moment, even though you don't want it to end.
FakeProwl: *Soundwave gunning for him would be... well, not LITERALLY Prowl's worst nightmare—because Prowl's worst nightmare involves Insecticons—but it would be very close.*
_Whirl: Gimme a time and a place, Teach, I'm ALWAYS down for a scuffle.
B l u r r: Kyeheheheh. Good.
B l u r r: /nods helm a little/ Yeah, I get that. I've never met anyone who balances both. Well... maybe... maybe one person.
B l u r r: / taps chinplate/ But, he doesn't really think of me that way.
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[...That is it. That is how you know.]]
_Whirl: Hey, it took me millions of years to finally meet Killmaster.
_Whirl: And there were a LOT of mecha I really, REALLY, REALLY--*stiffens a bit* REALLY. HATED.
B l u r r: I knew a mech that I hated so much, I wanted to kill him, but it was too fun to let him die...
_Whirl: ...before him.
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[If you think you would regret the manner of their death if it were not by your hands.]]
_Whirl: *nods* yep. And when you know that's how they feel, too.
B l u r r: oh, well... I'm pretty sure everyone who wnats me dead is
B l u r r: honest about it
_Whirl: *relaxes a touch* See, that's why Megatron can't be your nemesis, Starscream, aside from the hilariously obvious reasons Prowl stated. Optimus is his nemesis.
B l u r r: Oh, to have the Tyran Prime as a nemesis... / would sparkly eye if he could /
Starscream: Yeah but we don't have to be mutually nemesises
B l u r r: To be crushed by that large pede and ran through with a sword... all that hate in his optics.
B l u r r: / twitches claws and spreads them over his face/
Bevel: *so confused about this nemesis stuff*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *There is a vaguely wistful tone to his thoughts.*
_Whirl: You absolutely do.
_Whirl: If your nemesis doesn't actually refer toi you as "nemesis" then it's just. A sad, pale imitation.
Starscream: I hate Megatron more than anything else in the universe, he's scum
_Whirl: ...*was about to say "me too" but has to live with the knowledge that he... actually DOES hate someone more than Megatron. Multiple someones*
_Whirl: And, Blurr, you've just got a huge crush on him, that's different.
B l u r r: ... Hhh, I suppose.
B l u r r: It's great to have, though...
Starscream: One day I'll have a chance tosnuff his spark
_Whirl: *dryly* A nemesis, or a crush?
B l u r r: ... oh. A crush.
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[Jazz deserved a more fitting termination. A stray shot from an unknown soldier - it should have been something glorious. A final race to stop a musical virus. A game of poisons. Anything but that.]]
B l u r r: Your Jazz died from a shot? Poor thing...
B l u r r: Ah... I do rather hate Jazz...
Starscream: ((Star "killing Megatron i my kink" scream
B l u r r: But, he's obnoxiously friendly to me
Bevel: Most Jazzes are really friendly like that.
_Whirl: *shrugs*
FakeProwl: A nemesis MUST be mutual. A nemesis is a relationship.
Bevel: *most, definitely only most*
FakeProwl: Otherwise it's just unrequited spite.
Starscream: Oh no, he hates me too
Starscream: Just not as deep a loathing as mine
B l u r r: This Jazz is more so, I think...
FakeProwl: Not good enough.
B l u r r: / looks at Bevel/ Some kind of holy relic or something.
FakeProwl: If he doesn't see you as his nemesis, you're not nemeses.
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[Primus, their obnoxious insincere friendliness.]] A pause. [[And their magnet hands. On some.]]
_Whirl: I mean, hate isn't gonna cut it.
Starscream: Then I guess I'll just have to settle for not having a nemesis
_Whirl: You can go through your life hating everyone. I did.
_Whirl: Mostly.
_Whirl: With a few exceptions, I still more or less DO.
Bevel: Like a relic of the Thirteen?
ItsyBitsySpyers: *And now he's suddenly suspicious. He glances around the room to assure himself his complaining isn't going to a surprise audience.*
B l u r r: A relic of the what? No.. .he's that stupid cube thing
B l u r r: Everytime he comes over, he pesters me.
FakeProwl: *likes the magnet hands*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Prowl doesn't understand. He doesn't understand what Jazz has done with them.*
_Whirl: Isn't that the guy that made Zori super-sized?
B l u r r: Yeah...
Starscream: ((I have to go
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[At least you aren't -teaching- him.]]
ItsyBitsySpyers: ((awww! byeeee! thank you for showing up ))
Starscream: ((thanks for the stream
_Whirl: ((be!))
_Whirl: ((....bye))
_Whirl: ((BE))
B l u r r: byeee!! ]]
_Whirl: I don't think he likes that very much--can't you get him to change him back?
B l u r r: ... Are you teaching him?
_Whirl: I don't really talk to him anymore, but Professor Z seems down.
B l u r r: Me? Get him to change Zori back?
B l u r r: Jazz isn't going to listen to me...
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[NO. No. Jazz is not adjusting Zori again.]]
Bevel: Cube thing?
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[He is working on other solutions. Ones that are unlikely to end in \a microscopic minicon.]]
B l u r r: / nods at Bevel/ He's some kind of... what is it?
B l u r r: All Spark?
_Whirl: *looks to Soundwave* ...y'know that's probably not a bad idea. If he screwed up ONCE...
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[Unfortunately.]]
_Whirl: Well, if you need any ideas, I know a guy with a shrink ray. *shrugs*
Bevel: Oh! I know what that is.
B l u r r: you do?
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[...You will tell him more about that later, of course.]]
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Oh! Oh. And here he is talking about-- and Prowl is right--*
Bevel: Yeah, it made Cybertronian life in some places. I saw one once on a job. These Autobots had pieces of it and it made things come to life.
B l u r r: Well, now it's all put together inside some mech.
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): ...Jazz amica status temporarily forgotten. Apologies.
Bevel: Starscream was a zombie. I bet Jazz is a zombie to.
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[Primus forbid.]]
B l u r r: He's a zombie? Huh... no, impossible. That would make him interesting.
Bevel: *giggles*
B l u r r: Even so... he's very much alive from what I see.
_Whirl: Sure thing.
_Whirl: And, yeah, Teach--Brainstorm.
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «We spent four million years on opposite sides of a war. I'll forgive you badmouthing my amica if you forgive me occasionally cringing at references to assassinating senators.»
_Whirl: In my home dimension I got shrunk down and fouight some scrapets in Big M's body.
_Whirl: Left some quality graffiti in there, too.
Bevel: Maybe it works different in his universe. All the things that are the same from one universe to another are not really the same most of the time. *it's really confusing*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *He seems to consider this for a moment. Like, actually consider it. He's tapping his digits and everything.*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *And a nod.*
B l u r r: Things change, kid. /looking at Bevel/ it happens. If you want to learn more about him, talk to him.
B l u r r: He only calls me when he's having one of those... vision things.
B l u r r: Like I'm supposed to know what it means.
_Whirl: All right, losers, time for me to head out. *streeetches one more time before carefuly extricating himself*
_Whirl: Seeya. *salutes the room*
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Aww. Ya gotta?//
B l u r r: / waves at whirl/ See you sometime soon.
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «Anyway, it's nice to hear that he was a thorn in a high-ranking Decepticons' side. I'm sure he'd be pleased by your complaints.»
Bevel: *waves to Whirl*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Well, Rumble will trot back over to the couch and squeeze in between Frenzy and Bevel*
_Whirl: Yeah, I've got... *plants to tend to* Errands.
Bevel: *still sure this Jazz is an allspark zombie but she'll nod at Blurr anyone*
Bevel: *anyway*
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Kay. Seeya later.//
_Whirl: *he'll spare Rumble a nudge before he makes his exit, bobs his head to all one last time, and trots off*
B l u r r: I'll tell you what, though. His universe is one hot mess.
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): ...Confirm Prowl not sharing news.
Bevel: More than the other ones?
B l u r r: As is my own. Yet, while we lay low here on Earth, the Decepticons won't attack us... for now.
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «I won't tell him a word.»
B l u r r: / flicks finials / Hn? Well, apparently his Autobots are dying off constantly.
B l u r r: He keeps calling me in a panic.
Bevel: *nudges Rumble carefully in greeting*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Nudge back and a grin.*
Bevel: Oh, are they still fighting?
B l u r r: ... I don't know. I stay out of it.
B l u r r: I have no more ties to his universe
B l u r r: / grumbles/ I have ties to another one now.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Ping ping. Prowl is getting a reward. And also a demonstration of why Soundwave hates Jazzes so very, very much. Would he like to accept the A/V file.*
Bevel: Sometimes being tied to someplace is a good thing.
FakeProwl: *? all right*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Prowl's gonna see Soundwave cautiously stick his hand through a crack in the door, have it magneted, and get yanked through while Jazz flips over him. BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE.*
B l u r r: ... In this case, I'm not sure yet.
B l u r r: If being tied to it is good.
B l u r r: [[ LOL I REMEMBER THAT SOUNDWAVE ]]
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Because Jazz was an unauthorized intruder, a bridge immediately opened, dragging him through it. Since Soundwave was magneted, he got yanked right back into Dancitron and fell through with Jazz--*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *And they both ended up a fair distance away, completely locked out of a building now on shutdown.*
ItsyBitsySpyers: ((YOU BETTER REMEMBER HE'S STILL SO MAD))
B l u r r: [[ BE MAD WERE ON CYBERTRONS RUINS ]]
Bevel: Aw well, I hope you figure it out. *encouraging smile*
FakeProwl: *... hmmm. Well.*
FakeProwl: *this requires some serious contemplation. prowl puts his elbows on his knees and laces his hands together.*
FakeProwl: *and presses them over his mouth.*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Elbow nudge. He sees that.*
B l u r r: ... /tilts helm/ Hmh. So, what's your plan, huh?
B l u r r: / at bevel /
FakeProwl: *he's shaking.*
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): Confirm THAT not shared either.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *His dignity may be fluttering away in the wind, but at least Prowl is having a good moment for once. Shortage of those lately.*
Bevel: *shrugs* Plans for what?
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «I will absolutely not be sharing this.»
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «... And the Constructicons better not be either.»
FakeProwl: *good moment's over. What if that file got transferred to them during recharge? What if they decided they didn't care about Prowl's promise not to share it?*
FakeProwl: *wilts slightly*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *He sees this wilt.*
B l u r r: / leans forward to look at Bevel/ You want on the ship or not?
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): Inform them if this, shared, Soundwave personally ensures guard deals never again accepted.
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): Furthermore: existing Constructicon enjoyment items confiscated, shared among Autobot newbuilds.
Bevel: Oh that! Um, well. *it would get her away from the horrible awkwardness of her home planet* would you mind someone else coming with me?
FakeProwl: *small nod.*
FakeProwl: *attaches that note to the file. If the A/V file gets transferred to them, the threat will go with it.*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Small nudge.*
FakeProwl: *questioning ping*
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): Own fault.
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Wait, who's goin' with ya?//
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «... What is?»
B l u r r: ... Who's the someone else?
B l u r r: / tilts helm and flicks finials/ Remember, joining my crew means I am your Captain.
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): Shared file. Constructicon tie known. Other data also given. Shrinking: unnecessary.
Bevel: My amica and I am used to following orders.
B l u r r: So who is this america?
B l u r r: / he doesn't know these terms /
B l u r r: / An amica endurae is an american endurance /
ItsyBitsySpyers: [[..................America?]]
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Yeah, he heard that.*
FakeProwl: *shakes head. doesn't make a difference.*
Bevel: *stares at Blurr for a second trying to think of how to answer this*
FakeProwl: *he was still Reminded of them. and that he has no control over this connection.*
B l u r r: ... Isn't that what it's called?
B l u r r: That's what you said, right?
Bevel: Amica.
B l u r r: ...Ah.
B l u r r: Well, who is that?
Bevel: Like a really important friend. Some universes do not have them.
B l u r r: We certainly don't
Bevel: *this feels like such an understatment of the term but it's the best she can give*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Quiet vent. Light thumb rubbing on whatever plate it's resting against.*
B l u r r: Anyway. Who are they?
ItsyBitsySpyers: *He'll wait until Prowl feels like saying something about it or moving on. Whichever.*
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Rumble and Frenzy chinhands and watch Bevel and Blurr. They wanna know too.*
FakeProwl: *doesn't feel like saying anything now. just sorta slumps there.*
Bevel: *sticks tongue out at the twins* Rolodex is a minicon from one of the Malgus universe. They are not a warrior or anything like that.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Well, then Soundwave will just stay there with him for now. Maybe have an idea to temporarily get him 'away' from his troubles for a bit, in a few minutes.*
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Which one's Malgus?//
Bevel: The one with the zombie Starscream.
B l u r r: [[ Maglus is TFA, yes? ]]
Bevel: [[Yes
B l u r r: *Malgus ]]
B l u r r: [[ My son is from Malgus. My other Blurr ]]
Bevel: [[TFA Blurr <3
B l u r r: [[ yasss ]]
B l u r r: A minicon, hn? And what use will they do for the crew? Or you, for that matter?
B l u r r: If you're part of the crew, you're part of the ship.
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Hey! Don't you go stickin' her in no walls!//
Bevel: *armor bristles slightly*Rolodex has been my friend since I first got lost. They are really smart and nice and help keep all our mercenary data neat and make sure we don't mess anything up
B l u r r: So, they can keep data organized?
Bevel: Huh-uh! They were a data keeper at a big prison on their Cybertron.
B l u r r: Hmmm...we could use someone with those skills. Skychaser is moving to full time pilot.
B l u r r: And you?
B l u r r: / looks at the twins/ And I won't be putting anyone in a wall.
ItsyBitsySpyers: //Good.// Squint.
Bevel: I fight mostly.
B l u r r: Do you need a reason to?
B l u r r: You see, being a pirate is all about going against the grain. I don't want you to join and then you decide not to participate in any raids or pillaging events.
Bevel: I do not hurt civilians.
B l u r r: /scoffs/ then what kind of pirate are you expecting to be?
Bevel: The kind that helps you take out bots like Thundertron.
B l u r r: /smirks/ Now now, I didn't need a lot of help with that. /points to Frenzy/ Just his help.
B l u r r: /lifts digit/ However... this may work to our advantage. Mechs like Thundertron need to be stopped.
Bevel: *nods*
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): This, not ideal overheard talk. If company still needed-wanted, Prowl avatar permitted longer stay within apartment. Speech, quiet not minded.
Bevel: *she can't deny Frenzy's awesomeness during that fight*
B l u r r: Hmmnh... /leans forrward and looks over Bevel/ I don't think I ever got a proper introduction.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Frenzy puffs a bit.*
Bevel: My name is Bevel.
B l u r r: ... Blurr. /shifts and holds out a claw/ Captain of the Emperor. /Your/ Captain, if you choose to be on my ship.
B l u r r: That means you do what I say, when I say it. Any signs of mutiny.. .well... you don't want to know what kind of appetite I have.
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «... I may as well go home.» *he's got nothing to offer Soundwave right now.*
Bevel: Ew. *takes the offered claw* Does that mean I get stuck on this Earth now?
B l u r r: It means you're stuck with me until we can leave. It won't be long now. I think I've managed to gain the sympathy of the mech who took me.
B l u r r: I'm quite the actor. /smirks and lifts a digit to his scarred derma/ Don't tell anyone, though.
Bevel: *giggles* So am I.
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): Prowl certain? Home comfort not expected in present moment... this, time away assistance. Return not required. Peace, quiet. Soundwave's time spent repairing datapads.
Bevel: I have to get Rolodex and our stuff if we have to live on the ship.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *In other words, Prowl doesn't have to entertain him if he just wants to leave his mind somewhere that isn't the prison apartment for a while.*
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «The Constructicons aren't home at night. I can get peace and quiet as easily there as anywhere else.»
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Somehow he doubts the 'peace' part of that.*
FakeProwl: *which was to say, not easily at all. but that wasn't the fault of the location. even in holoform, he could feel the itch of his sanded off decals.*
B l u r r: Good. Then get your supplies and that mech
B l u r r: And come back here. /looking Bevel over/ And bring any supplies you have
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): ...If mind changed, alert. Simple plan adjustment. Not difficulty if own home preferred; potential Constructicon theft warning recorded. Security presence not unexpected.
Bevel: Ok! *Blurr better hope he's up for the sheer amount of supplies and stuff Bevel is bringing back*
B l u r r: / he wants all the things /
B l u r r: ... Welcome to The Emperor... Bevel. /twitches claws/
ItsyBitsySpyers: *He knows he's made this offer at least once a week now, but he's not entirely sure what else to do. There's no mental clues to go off of, and Prowl can be closed-off even when he's NOT upset.*
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «No. No—don't come over.»
Bevel: Thanks, Blurr. Captain. *shrugs, look formal titles are not a thing with her merc group*
B l u r r: Mm.../waves claw/ You'll learn in time
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Tilts helm.*
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «There's no need for that.»
Bevel: @Soundwave: Can you help me with a space bridge later please?
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Bevel: [[Yes.]]
Bevel: @Soundwave: Thank you. :)
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): ...In personal experience, direction loss: more painful alone. However, if that: Prowl's wish, Soundwave... complies.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *A twist to face Bevel and a nod.*
FakeProwl: *flinches*
FakeProwl: *he hates that he can't keep anything to himself. Everything's already obvious, isn't it? he used to be able to keep secrets.*
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «"Alone" isn't even an option for me.»
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Prowl shouldnt dig at himself so hard. It's hard to have them around Soundwave.*
B l u r r: / vents and leans over on his couch to look everyone else over. Well, he's comfortable here. Lays out on couch /
B l u r r: You'll learn to like living here. My ship isn't so bad, you know. /to Bevel /
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): Apology. Corrected term: "Unaccompanied." Implication Constructicon ties forgotten unintended.
Bevel: Better than living on Cybertron.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Rumble mutters something that sounds like "ain't that the truth"*
B l u r r: Kyeheheh, if you say so. You'll never go hungry
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «Mm.» *the wording doesn't make much difference.* «... I dislike being fussed over.»
Bevel: Good to know.
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): ...Acknowledged. Glass treatment not meant. This - Soundwave not unfamiliar. After betrayal, new function not known. Carrier privacy also reduced. --
B l u r r: Mmhm. You see, we make stops all over the verses. I'm sure you'll get used to it.
ItsyBitsySpyers: Intended offer purpose: support, understanding, assistance. Prowl capability still understood. However, desire: reduce unnecessary suffering, avoid unilateral decision.
Bevel: I am used to travelling through the multiverse.
B l u r r: Oh, good. Then you're used to foreign places.
B l u r r: Now, there are guests that come and go on the ship that you should be aware of.
ItsyBitsySpyers: (txt): That, only reason. Prowl decision: time unaccompanied wanted. That, respected. Goodnight bid.
FakeProwl: @Soundwave «I shouldn't have said I turned down a job offer.»
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Or not.*
Bevel: Guests?
B l u r r: Yes.
B l u r r: For one, if you see a white mech with red markings, if he still looks the same, that's Drift.
B l u r r: If he's on the ship and he tells you to do something, you're advised to listen to him.
B l u r r: He's like my honorary first mate.
ItsyBitsySpyers: @Prowl: (txt): Data learned soon regardless. Small pieces already possessed. Starscream complaint suffering expected. Soundwave sees much. That, role. Cannot apologize. Respect, best counter.
Bevel: Oh. Ok.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *So he'll let go and bow his helm.*
FakeProwl: *irritated sigh* @Soundwave «... Goodnight.»
B l u r r: Big green and white mech with AMP across his chassis? That's Roadbuster. He's allowed on the ship any time.
B l u r r: And if I say I have a guest and you are to remain in your sectors of the ship, listen to what I say.
FakeProwl: *disappears*
B l u r r: The trophy room is off limits. /counting on digits/ The room of intellect is open to mechs who wish to settle and work on their own source material for themselves. I'll explain
B l u r r: the basics of our beliefs some other time.
B l u r r: You're welcome to look at any frames on the wall, but don't knock them down
Bevel: *nods and listens intently*
B l u r r: Oberyn, you'll know him when you see him, is allowed to roam wherever he likes. If you don't want him in your room, make sure you lock the door.
B l u r r: Menace, who I'm sure is on the ship somewhere, might be in the vents. Just be wary.
Menace: *muffled* I'm in the closet today.
B l u r r: ... He's in the closet, apparently.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *Shakes his helm a little. Prowl can be mad at him if he wants. He's not going to be sorry that he figures things out--.*
Bevel: Closet ok. Lock doors. *she should have written this down maybe*
B l u r r: Menace is my audio and optic set. He's gotten rid of traitors before and I'm sure he's itching to do it again sometime.
B l u r r: Either way, just remember that my ship can be very interesting to live on so long as you follow the rules.
B l u r r: Oh, and you might want to tell me what you like to eat now.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *And he's not going to be sorry that he told Prowl he was semi-familiar with the problem. It's true.*
Bevel: Leave. I have friends off ship. My creator. I will need to visit them sometimes. And I only eat energon. Regular kind. Or high grade sometimes. Not anything made from humans.
Bevel: The human stuff is gross.
ItsyBitsySpyers: *He's just going to ping Bevel and Blurr simple goodbyes and make his way out. Like he said, he has datapads to repair.*
B l u r r: Right, well, we don't eat humans here. But, the cannibar does serve energon from many mechs. /smirks/ so be careful what you order.
Bevel: *pings back, will message later for that bridge*
B l u r r: /waves to Soundwave /
B l u r r: As for leave, I won't keep you from whatever a creator is, but you need to remember that you'll be a wanted mech, so whatever happens when you leave is on your helm.
B l u r r: But we will come get you if there is an attack. We don't leave crew mates behind.
Bevel: That is ok than.
B l u r r: One more thing. I have alliances. Strong ones. Anything we do... any business between them remains between us.
B l u r r: Nothing can be said outside of the crew unless I say so.
Bevel: I can keep secrets. I am really good at it.
B l u r r: Good. then we're all right. Now, I just need you to know that we mechs... don't believe in Primus. Mechs from my universe, anyway.
B l u r r: You can pray to whatever bag of chips you want.
Bevel: *snickers*
B l u r r: But on this ship, with my mechs from my verse that I brought, they worship in a different way. You're allowed to talk to
B l u r r: whatever you want. But, don't push it on others. Other than that, talk to those pringles.
Bevel: *she is going to assume that means no one will be pushing pringles she doesn't want onto her as well and nod in agreement*
B l u r r: / nods / See? I can be a good Captain.
B l u r r: / flexes claws/ Sometimes. Better than Thundertron, eh?
Bevel: A lot of bots are better than Thundertron but I think we can make this work.
Bevel: *she stands* I will go get my things now and Rolodex and I will return as soon as we are able. It will not be very long. I will bring whatever supplies for the ship that I can.
B l u r r: Right. Get a move on, then.
Bevel: *nods and leaves*
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