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“The display space is beautiful.” Prowl looked up at the mercury fountain with a smile. “Though I imagine you have to keep the Humans a safe distance away from this particular piece.”“There is an energy barrier in place around the fountain when Humans are in the gallery, yes” Mirage replied.“Very wise.” Prowl nodded and turned to look at the former spy with a serious expression. “What would you say to expanding the gallery further?”“We would require additional funding.” There was no hesitation in Mirage’s reply, and that made Prowl smile. “But I am open to expansions otherwise.”“Excellent. Tracks and I have been discussing a sculpture garden, something with crystals similar to Praxus’ gardens with art installations spaced throughout. Would that be something that would interest you, as well?”“As I said, I am open to possibilities. But maintaining crystal growths in Earth’s atmosphere will be a challenge that will require a full-time caretaker.”“Oh, it will require at least two.” Prowl’s smile didn’t falter. “Fortunately, you know at least four mechanisms versed in crystal care and growing.”“So that brings us back around to funding again, then, I'm afraid.” Mirage sighed. “Currently, our donations cover our operating expenses as long as Sunstreaker or I purchase the display pieces, but that would not last if we implemented your sculpture garden.”“What if I could promise you funding through at least the first century of growth, and maintenance at no additional fee?”“I’m sorry, what?”“The joint government is exploring options for grants and funding for cultural enrichment projects, not simply the job training and rebuilding we have been speaking about publicly. What you and Sunstreaker have built here with nothing but your own severance funds is remarkable, and worth supporting for as long as possible.” Prowl turned his attention back to the fountain for a moment. “I suggested you might be open to such a grant, and Megatron and Starscream both agreed that it could be in everyone’s interest if you agree.”“Megatron and Starscream agreed?”“I think their agreement has been swayed by the fact that Skywarp won’t stop talking about how quickly you purchased his paintings and how nice they look, and I quote, “In the corner with the weird light”. Even Optimus is planning to sneak away to see them, just so he will stop asking if he has yet.”“Well, he has every right to be proud of those works.” Mirage smiled. “Seeker in Rain is a delight to behold. And while I cannot agree to anything without Sunstreaker’s input, I am certainly open to the idea of a government grant to help fund our facilities. But how on Earth can you justify paying a crystal gardener or two out of it as well?”“Because they will be volunteers.” Prowl’s wings twitched in amusement as Mirage’s optics widened. “Smokescreen and Bluestreak have both been wishing to take up the hobby again, and while Smokescreen could not do it full time, Tracks or I would be more than happy to fill in for him and get our hands dirty. I do not miss it the way my siblings do, but I do enjoy crystal cultivation.”“That offer is beyond generous, Prowl. I don’t think we could accept, in good conscience.”“You can, and I think you should. But you should discuss it with Sunstreaker first, as you said, before accepting or denying.”“Yes, of course. And we should call you with our decision?”“Yes, at my office, since this is an official proposal. My secretary will know to let your call through immediately.” Prowl smiled again. “I will await your favorable response.”