Takes place in the Cyclone short series, mostly in 'Two Plus Two Equals More'. Drift's thoughts after the minicons went after the Cyclones. First time at a one-shot fic.
A while ago, Slipstream had called upon himself through 'the power of dibs' to take on the Cyclone minicons. Drift couldn't risk dishonoring himself or his pupil, which is why he let him go on a dangerous mission. Jetstorm became worried about his partner and requested that he would follow Slipstream in case he is in danger. Drift does agree and let his student supervise the mission as long as he respected Slipstream's 'dibs'.
Drift is now polishing his swords in an attempt to keep his partners out of his mind. Despite being strict and stoic, Drift is worried about his students.
Though Drift had set himself as an honorable bounty hunter, Primus seem to have other plans for the wanderer. Jetstorm and Slipstream used to be thieves and the samurai took them in as students in order to rehabilitate them. However, he also has bonded with his minicon partners. Drift had hurt, if not killed, many others in his past. If anything were to harm his pupils, Drift may not be able to forgive himself.
The gate to the scrapyard opens and Drift rushes toward the area to investigate. Before he can arrive at the entrance, he sees his two minicons approaching him carrying the two defeated Cyclones. Drift stop to marvel at the site though his facial expression is still emotionless.
Cyclones are a dangerous type of minicon. They are unaligned and unpredictable. Though Drift is not sure how, but Jetstorm and Slipstream are able to find the Cyclones, fight them and get Backtrack and Ransack back to base.
Jetstorm and Slipstream place the Cyclones on the ground in front of their master. Drift pauses for a moment, then he quickly wraps his arms around his students in a warm embrace. His minicons were startled by the action before Drift realized that he is not acting himself. He quickly regains composure.
"Ahem," Drift tries to hide his embarrassment of his previous action before telling his students, "It is good to see that you have both returned safely."
Slipstream responds, "It is good to be seen safely, master."
Drift extends his arms out so his student can return to him. Once they are back to the deployer, Drift lowers his arms and shows a small smile on his face.
Drift is very thankful to have his partners. Bumblebee had said that a team is like a family. Drift couldn't agree more on that statement.