Summoned by Megatron

Log Title: Summoned by Megatron

Characters: Banshee, Megatron, Razorclaw, Valour

Date: February 07, 2021

Summary: Megatron gives orders concerning Ibex.

As logged by Valour - Sunday, February 07, 2021, 4:51 PM

<<Decepticon>> Emperor Megatron says, "Commander Valour, Field Commander Razorclaw, and Private Banshee report to me in Kolkular."

<<Decepticon>> Aerospace CO Valour replies, "Immediately, Your Imperial Majesty!"

<<Decepticon>> Fräulein Banshee says, "Jawohl! I am on my way."

<<Decepticon>> Razorclaw says, "As you command, sir."

The Cradle - Kolkular[]

Packed with many monitors and other equipment, The Cradle is Kolkular's command hub and throne room. It is a busy place, with Sweeps receiving almost constant data from the field and passing it along to the appropriate division heads. Teams of cassettecons monitor and listen to the broadcasts private and public, reporting things of interest up the chain of command. A large dais dominates the room, on which a command chair faces the main viewscreen. Other stations are arranged in a half-circle in front of the chair, where the commander can watch over the others while they work. The war room is a hectic and somewhat paranoid place to be, and only the most trusted of Decepticons are allowed in here.

The Cradle is quieter than normal as its staff has been reduced to a minimal amount for the moment. As is usual Lord Megatron is seated upon his throne on the dais; a stack of data pads close at hand. Optics scanning the room and lingering on the vidscreen displaying the map of Cybertron.

Banshee may have taken a little while to get here; it's a bit of a trip from Tarn, especially when you're not known for your flying speed. Still, as quickly as she is able, Banshee touches down on the Kolkular runway, transforms, and steps smartly in with a salute.

Razorclaw strides in not long after the femme, the Predacon in his robot mode for a change because that's more proper for meeting with their lord and commander. He stops, with a quick and respectful salute to Megatron upon his throne. "Field Commander Razorclaw, reporting as ordered."

With his legendary punctuality and speed, Valour is usually first on the scene when summoned, but this time he arrives a few astroseconds after Razorclaw. Valour's armour is smoking, and there are a few kinetic rounds imbedded in his shoulder. He steps crisply into the room and assumes a ramrod straight attention stance with a formal salute. "Aerospace Commander Valour reporting as ordered, your Imperial Majesty," he says, making no comment about the condition of his armour.

Megatron inclines his head to each in turn upon their arrival. The Decepticon Emperor leans forward, fingers interlacing as he focuses on the Aerospace Commander for the moment. "I have decided to demonstrate for the Autobots the consequences of their impetuous decision to involve the neo-titan in their defense of Ibex. To that end," his gaze shifts to Banshee, "you will assist in the capture of the city. It is -THEY- who have chosen to involve more powerful combatants..."

His optics flash, "I will answer in kind. You -will- bring Trypticon to assist in the capture of Ibex." Again he looks to Valour, "As of this moment you are in command of that operation, and I have already dispatched Commander Onslaught and his team to support your efforts by whatever means are necessary."

He glances at Razorclaw and smirks, "Your team has a different assignment, however. It is no less important. I n fact it may prove to be the key to this assault."

Ah, Ibex. That this involves the Autobots' recent efforts in fortifying that location to their advantage does not surprise Razorclaw. The dark visor and mouthguard make his expression unreadable, but there is a faint cant of the head to one side as Megatron orders the deployment of Trypticon as part of dealing with the matter. Hmm. This is to be quite the serious military matter if he desires to involve their own dino-titan.

As usual for him the Predacon Commander is silent and observing, until he is actually addressed. "You need only speak, my liege, and it shall be done."

Banshee nods "I will do as you command." Banshee says. "Though I feel they have shown contrition for their actions, mein fuhrer... myself unt Trypticon have received formal apologies from the Neo-Titan for the infraction; agent Ghost was present for them and has them on record. However, if you believe that is not sufficient, then we will follow your will, my lord." She bows her head. A thoughtful look. "Mein fuhrer... I preface this with... we follow your will. If you do not like the idea I have..." Banshee hesitates. "I... do not wish to escalate things further. An escalating War of Titans harms our cause... may I suggest a stay of action? Perhaps this can be used to our advantage in other ways."

Valour remains ramrod still, optics fixed straight ahead. "Yessir!" he responds immediately to his orders. He doesn't glance at Banshee as she makes her counter-suggestion, but he does comment, "Almost all civilians have been evacuated, so there will be no need to hold back." Is that really directed at Megatron, or is he addressing Banshee's concerns? In any case, he continues, "With Banshee under my command, our combined efforts with Trypticon will be seamless, whatever your commands. The Autobots will regret escalating this confrontation to a level on which they cannot compete."

"As Commander Valour so rightly observes, overwhelming force will bring a swift conclusion to this conflict with minimal casualties," Megatron offers. "With the neo-titan occupied fending off Trypticon it allows our other forces to complete the acquisition of Ibex at lower risk due to the presence of the Combaticons; in whatever configuration they choose to take for the battle."

Picking up a pair of datapads he holds one out to Valour and the other out to Razorclaw. "The Predacons, in the mean time, will start their assault on Protihex before Commander Valour's forces engage the defenders at Ibex."

Optics flashing crimson, "The Predacons will not be alone. The Destrons will be assisting in this action to draw off defenders from either Ibex or Iacon. Those can be harassed upon the roads or tied up in the annexation of Protihex. It makes no difference which as they will be unable to shift those resources back to Iacon."

Banshee nods "Ja, of course, mein furher." She says. "Only... mein worry is, since the offenders made their apology, us bringing Trypticon in seems... disingenuous. It is not this battle I worry about, mein fuhrer. It is the signals it sends. And the devastation that two titans Walk in Anger upon Cybertron would wrought. I understand victory at all costs, my lord, but do you really wish to rule over a cold, dead husk of a world?"

Razorclaw nods his head at the assessment and counterpoints given. Engaging the Titans with each other will limit the damage they do to other objectives. Collateral damage is unavoidable, but it can be minimalized. A sound strategy. Though he will give Banshee credit for being willing to voice her concerns in a constructive manner. That's better than a lot of Decepticons in general, who would rather scream and call Megatron a fool until he puts his cannon in their face.

"A multi-pronged strategy to divert the enemy's attention and tangle up their resources. Excellent." And the Predacons would certainly enjoy a hunt away from patrolling Kalis' boarders. "If necessary we can deploy Predaking to ensure we ... get their attention."

Valour's optics glint brightly in response to Megatron's plans. He accepts the datapad crisply, glancing down to make sure the data is there before turning his attention back to his leader. Listen to the strategy first, THEN delve into the tactical details is Valour's plan. While he tries to keep his expression professionally neutral, his eagerness to begin putting Megatron's words into action is nearly palpable. He keeps his own counsel concerning Banshee's further concerns about the upcoming battle.

"You claim the Autobots 'apologized' yet they still have their weapon in place; threatening -MY- Empire and those within. I will not let that go unanswered. Trypticon will be stationed to assist in the capture of Ibex," Megatron's voice is cold; even as he raises it for emphasis. "Those datapads contain the latest intelligence we have for Ibex and Protihex; use it as you see fit in your operations."

Megatron Pauses as when he begins to lean back, "Commander Valour, Onslaught did suggest the possibility of sabotaging the neo-titan. If that can be accomplished in some way it would give us a further advantage in having Trypticon in place amongst your forces."

Banshee nods "That leads neatly to my counter-suggestion, mein fuhrer." She says. "Issue a demand. Tell the Autobots that they have one week to remove the neo-titan from Ibex or you will be forced to... take countermeasures to ensure an even playing field. If they do, Ibex is easier to capture. If they do not... deploy Trypticon. It is win-win either way... it shows you are not the warmonger that some say you are. You are not the first to deploy a Titan in anger; you publicly lay that blame at the feet of the Autobots. It will give your critics pause... help us win the public relations battle, mein furher."

Razorclaw had busied himself for a moment at examining the datapad. Though he gives a sidelong glance towards Banshee. He can respect her willingness to speak on concerns, but also hopes she knows when to hold her words as well. "Sabotage could be deployed.." He pauses as Banshee speaks up again, but it wasn't a complaint as he might of feared. After a moment he can be heard rumbling a soft thoughtful hmming. "Banshee does bring up a valid point, Lord Megatron. The Autobots were the first to position a such a powerhouse there.... I admit, the political side of war I am not as thoroughly knowledgeable in. But tactically, forcing the enemy into such a damnable position of escalation or not can be used to an advantage. It will hurt their morale, and their faith in the decisions their leaders make."

Valour nods immediately without having to glance down at his pad. "With your permission, sir, I will coordinate with Cyclonus concerning potential sabotage. I can back up his forces with my own and lend him aerospace stealth forces to act under joint command." He pauses as Banshee makes another counter-suggestion. If anything, that would simply give Valour more time to oversee the sabotage of Fort Max, as well as the consequences Razorclaw pointed out.

Megatron 's optics flash and narrow as Banshee continues to object. Instead of answering her he turns to Vlaour, "Commander, take charge of your forces and execute the capture of Ibex at your discretion and coinciding with the assault on Protihex."

Settling back into the throne he regards Razonrclaw, "There are still details to be worked out with the Destrons concerning which of their forces will be accompanying your Predacons. Once that has been settled I will have them communicate with you. Only once all the forces are in place will we spring the trap for the Autobots. You are all dismissed."

Banshee nods "Jawohl..." she says, softly. She looks dejected... she gives Megatron a PR victory on a plate and all he does is look angry.

That is a better response that Decepticons have gotten in the past for their concerns. Razorclaw trusts Valour to decide the best courses of action to take in the matters. He stores the datapad away, so he can go over it with his team when he reunites with them later. Though the beginning of strategies is already forming. "As you command, Lord Megatron. Until the time to hunt comes, the Predacons shall remain on their patrols of Kalis."

Valour nods quickly. "Yes, your Imperial Majesty. It will be done." He casts a warning glance at last at Banshee, his gaze a strong, 'we will discuss this privately'. He then turns back ahead, saying nothing until addressed or dismissed by Megatron.

Banshee salutes and departs, still looking a little dejected.

Megatron picks up athe datapad from atop the pile and focuses on it. Allow the trio depart as thy will.

<<Decepticon>> Ravage says, "There's a horde of trans-organic beings in the chamber. Including some -very- big ones. One estimated has a mass approaching that of a Guardian unit."

<<Decepticon>> Fräulein Banshee says, "Doesn't Encore have an arm of one of those hanging over his bar?"

<<Decepticon>> Ravage says, "I presume given Arachnae's analysis it is probably larger than the bar"

<<Decepticon>> Transport Commander Astrotrain says, "If one is that big, it's gotta be helluva ugly."

<<Decepticon>> Fräulein Banshee says, "Trypticon would like a trophy, if at all possible."

<<Decepticon>> Cyclonus says, "Feel free to rearrange its features to suit yourself, Astrotrain."

<<Decepticon>> Fräulein Banshee says, "Herr Valour... do you haff a moment?"

<<Decepticon>> Aerospace CO Valour says, "Of course, Banshee! Meet me in conference room H."

Banshee nods and approaches the conference room. She knocks on the door.

"Come in, Banshee." Valour answers politely. He stands at the head of the table, and gestures to her as she comes on. "Have a seat," he says with a smile.

Banshee steps inside "Hallo. I was... thinking about the Fuhrer's orders."

Valour waits for Banshee to sit before joining her. "Yes, Banshee. I'm impressed at how bravely you speak your mind. What is your opinion? You can speak freely here."

Banshee nods a little, pulling a flask from her belt. "Danke, sir. Kaff?" She says. "I... I wonder if you might consider my proposal? The Furher left it in your hands..."

Valour nods, accepting the Kaff gratefully. "Yes, and it has merit. As both Razorclaw and you have pointed out, it places the ball in the Autobots' court and pins the blame directly on them if they fail to see the wisdom in withdrawing. It will also give them time to move the final, most stubborn civilians out of the area, so there are no non-combatant casualties should the Autobots prove characteristically recalcitrant."

Banshee nods "Ja, exactly." She says, pouring two cubes of her own home-brewed kaff. "Since you are acting in the Furher's stead, I would suggest you make zer statement."

Valour nods. "I will prepare one now. Will Trypticon back up any threats I make?" he asks pointedly.

Banshee nods "Of course." she says. "It is one thing to advise the Fuhrer, quite another to go against his will."

Valour nods again. "Excellent. I will make the threat, and leave the ball in the Autobots' court, as they say. I doubt they will take the opportunity, but if they do? A win without spilt energon is best for both factions."

Banshee nods "Ja. Or at least, without having to bring Trypticon into the field." She says. "I will follow the Furher's orders, but... I would be lying if I said the thought does not make me nervous. Of all the forces we have, the Titans are the ones who could really damage Cybertron..."

Valour nods crisply. "Agreed. However, endless war has done even more damage than the Titans can wrought. Ending the war is the only way to stop the damage to our home. Otherwise, we are lost, whether or not we bring the Titans to bear. If we can end the war in a few, hard strikes, more lives, and maybe the planet itself, will be saved."

Banshee nods in agreement "Ja, of course." She says. "The hardest trick is knowing when to use your big stick, lest the other side bring out theirs."

Valour smiles. "Agreed, and for that, we must trust the judgement of our leader. But your counsel is heard, Banshee... we will use your option first, and maybe save the need for a Titan strike."

Banshee nods a little. "Danke, yes." She says softly. "...being bonded to a Titan, it... changes your perspective a little." She admits. "Like the rest of us, I thought of him as like a Dinobot... useful, but... not smart. Oh, how wrong I was... under all that rage, there is a wonderful mind, and a musical soul."

Valour nods slowly. "You have a rare insight, Banshee, and we're lucky to have you. Keep me abreast of any developments with Trypticon. As you have pointed out, he's more than a blunt instrument. Let's not use him as one."

Banshee nods in agreement. "Danke... ja, he is." She sips her kaff. "I am lucky to be linked to him."

Valour asks, "Is there anything I can do to assist you in your duties? I know it must be difficult with your divided responsibilities."

Banshee shakes her head "Not unless you can convince the Furher to make me Stadtkommandant again." She says. "Not having the authority to back up Trypticon's wishes... bothers him. We are adapting, and I am reassuring him it is temporary, but... it vexes Trypticon."

Valour looks at Banshee seriously. "Trypticon is an important asset to the Decepticon Empire. If he has a reasonable request you need granted, come to me. I will make it happen."

Banshee nods "Ja, if it is anything serious, I will." She says, smiling softly and adding. "But I cannot just... herd people out of the command centre because Trypticon wants peace."

Valour chuckles. "Well, we'll all have to make adjustments... even Trypticon. You really seem to have tempered his rage. I admit I'm impressed.

Banshee shrugs a little. "Accepting that he is right to be angry was a large step. Listening to him, talking to him another." She says, softly. "There are still times when it nearly overwhelms me, but... they are coming less often. He knows they hurt me, and he tries to temper his rage for my sake."

Valour looks surprised. "That is an unexpected level of consideration I wouldn't expect from most Decepticons, especially not one known for state-level destructive potential."

Banshee smiles softly. "It helps that he feels it too. And... I help him. He is considerate to those he considers 'his'... I am very much his."

Valour grins. "Some powerful protection. Remind me never to get on your bad side," he chuckles, relaxing a bit.

Banshee laughs "Indeed, indeed." She agrees. "Talk about job security, hmm?"

Valour chuckles. "Yes." He raises an optic ridge. "Is there anything else?" he asks politely.

Banshee shakes her head "No, thank you. That was all." She inclines her head.

"You are dismissed, then," Valour says with a smile.

"I'll be in touch again when I have a plan," Valour adds. "I might need access to your DPN."

Banshee smiles "Of course." She says. "The Decepticon Propaganda Network exists to be the mouthpiece of command." She says. "My transmitter on die Flakturm can reach all of cybertron, and thanks to our network affiliates in Trucal Abysmia, we're also on three cable netvorks on Earth."