“Fine, then—but know that threatening a Prime comes with dire consequences, and you have no power here.”

“Do not threaten me again, Nightstorm. I don’t know where Windblade is—she departed shortly after our confrontation. I’m sure she is safe.”

“Do not threaten me or /I will take legal action/ and have you removed from the planet.”

“I will not—unless you force my hand. I am asking you to compose yourself for Themis’s sake.”

“Thank you for your understanding. Not everyone seems to be able to arrive to that conclusion…” He sits down with a sigh and cradles his head in his hands. “I’m trying my best to preserve the rights of everyone involved. That’s all.”

“Aiding with the relief effort,” Optimus says coolly. “You are embarrassing yourself and your empress, Nightstorm. I suggest you disengage from the conversation and take a moment to calm yourself.”

“Duly noted.” Optimus watches him leave, optics frigid.

“I would not stoop so far as to insult her,” Optimus says. “I was… admittedly harsh, but I didn’t cross that boundary.” He stares off at the far wall. “This is a nightmare.”

He gazes at her, curious. Tired. Then his optics soften. “All right,” he murmurs.

“For once, I won’t argue with that sentiment,” he sighs, rising to his feet. He gently touches Themis’s cheek. “Comm me if you need me.”

Sleeping in the palace—away from his apartment—has been… difficult. Especially with the ongoing relief effort, and his turmoil over Shockwave. He looks exhausted, but grateful as Themis arrives with energon. “Thank you,” he murmurs, taking a cube.

“Thank Primus,” Optimus murmurs, retracting his mask and taking a sip. “Yes, they will have permission. I’m grateful for all your help, truly. I hope there wasn’t even a moment where I made you doubt it.”

🌙: I hope you see how angry I am. It’s your fault I’m upset. I hate to drag shit out but you blocked me and don’t want to face the consequences of your own actions.

🌙: I’m still really angry about this. I don’t appreciate being used as a source of entertainment or a well of ideas and then when you do something wrong I’m supposed to just, not feel wronged?