Starscream wrote:“Heh.”, Starscream huffed, crossing his arms. “Everyone knows your favors aren't free, Swindle. In that regard, we are very much alike. I don't just give away things for free either. Your cunning may fool some, you see, but it doesn't fool me. Still, being honest, you did indeed help me a great deal. I suppose it's only fair to repay you?”, he said that with a threatening undertone. A devilish smirk played across his lips. The game was beginning.
Swindle remained quiet, nodding along as Starscream took the long way to get to the point. He expected nothing less, as it was not only typical Starscream, but also Swindle’s. It was meant to maneuver around another’s mental defenses, often exhausting them to the point the listener usually agreed just to get it over with. Of course, there were the mechs that just lashed out. Starscream had Megatron, and Swindle, for some reason, had nearly every mech want to do that, especially had the Combaticons. Sometimes, a reputation was a terrible thing to have.
Surprisingly, after all of that, Swindle felt a surge of pride knowing another had adopted a similar technique.
Maybe I should charge him to use it? The thought had merit, but favors would be more important in the future. Not that he really expected them to come to fruition. I am dealing with Starscream, after all.
Still, he had to admit the Seeker had potential. If only he could enjoy the negotiating process instead of going for the prize… The thought would’ve given another mech reason for pause, but not Swindle. The challenge and energon rush was simply too much to walk away from. It’s not like he’s the Combaticons. I doubt if any of them can even spell deal.
Starscream wrote:“Oh, my dear Swindle.
And here it comes.
Starscream wrote: “You are gold to me, you know that don't you?
That’s new. And your point is…
Starscream wrote: “I accept your service. Now, don't let me down now. I'll know if you do. That being said, I am absolutely sure we can help each other. You help me, and I help you. An opportunity is likely to present itself soon, and when it does, you will be repaid for this instance. Just be a good little warrior, and make sure to help me, your Lord, when I need it. Agreed?”
Swindle did everything he could to keep from bursting out in laughter, and somehow he succeeded. Some mechs were just too predictable.
“In your service, you say?” He remained quiet for a few astroseconds to draw out the moment. He already knew what he was going to say, he just didn’t see a reason not to draw it out to test Starscream’s mettle. It was petty, but every mech needs a hobby.
“Well, I can certainly appreciate your candor and willingness to include me in your plans (Never mind I approached you, right, flyboy?). I’m honored to be of service. I look forward to our future…” He paused, tilting his hand from one side to the other, searching for the right word. “Endeavors… collaborations… I’ll leave the choice to you. If you need anything, you know where to find me.”
He turned to leave, but paused to glanced back, and in a loud enough voice for them to hear, said, “Oh, I’m sure it won’t matter, but the CR chambers can be… touchy. Some of my fellow Combaticons lack the dexterousness needed for such delicate machinery. If you feel an unusual burning sensation, you may want to reboot the chamber. They’re simple, but not cheap to repair, you know. Happy healing.”
Turning away, he couldn’t help but smile as wide as possible. He didn’t know why he did it, but he was curious how many of the Seekers would hand over their hard earned energon rations for him to “fix” the chamber.
I did say there were opportunities with Starscream, did I not?