Starscream flew over Cybertron, the other seekers in formation behind him. They had been flying for about 20 minutes now, and knew that they would come by the Autobot transport vessel soon. Just as the though entered his processor, the transport vessel came into view. "Ok, everyone knows their positions" Starscream commed the other seekers, gaining 'yes sir' from all of them. He then opened a comm linked to the Autobot transport. "Autobot transport vessel, this is Commander Starscream. We are here to provide you with an escort back to Decepticon base" he said, as he and the rest of his seekers took up positions all around the transport, ensuring it would be covered from all angles.
"Acknowledge" was the reply from the vessel.
Starscream flew just ahead of the vessel, ensuring their path was safe. He slowed his engines, knowing that the transport vessel was not capable of reaching the speeds he was. He scanned the horizon, ensuring to look up and down, to make ensure no-one was in the vicinity. He kept a close optic of everything around him, not taking any chances with Sentinel; or possibly rogues, on the loose. It was about 10 minutes later, nearing Decepticon territory he commed his seekers again. "All units check in" he was glad when they all answered back with 'clear'. It was relieving to know that they would; hopefully not wanting to jinx it, make it home safely.
Then, out of nowhere, on the borders of Decepticon territory, a shot flew up from the ground missing Starscreams nose, just. "Thundercracker, Skywarp. Brake formation and deal with our assailant" he commed the two mechs, gaining 'yes sir' in return from both of them.
Suddenly his comm was going off. "Starscream, you ok?" Jazz said through the comm.
"I am fine; the shot missed me by mere inches. I have dispatched two seekers to deal with the issue" he answered back, as he led the transport vessel into Decepticon territory, though he knew that they still weren't safe. It had appeared to be rogues that attacked them, and they would have no issue with entering Decepticon territory if they thought they could get something out of it.
"Enemy neutralized" Thundercracker said through the comm, causing Starscream to sigh in relief. Thankfully the rest of the journey was uneventful.
XXX
Megatron stood sat in the command chair, Firewing curled up on his lap in recharge. He gently rubbed her back, as he watched her recharging form. It had taken some convincing for her to settle, but once she sat in his lap, he had immediately started massaging her back to calm her. Thankfully it didn't take long for her to slip into a fitful recharge, better than nothing, Megatron supposed; though he desperately wished he could take her pain and anguish away. But knew she would not settle fully until they had Firefall back. He turned as he heard his name called, very quietly of course. "What is it Barricade?" he asked.
"Sir the transport vessel is nearing the base and ready for docking procedure" the mech answered.
"Very well, initiate docking procedure and comm them to inform them I will be down there shortly" he announced softly, so as not to wake his mate. He watched the mech nod before turning back to his seat. He stood gently, hoping beyond hope that he would not wake the red seeker, but sighed dejectedly as the seeker woke, optics instantly online. "It's alright my queen" he started, as he held her. "I am just about to head to the landing pad to welcome the Autobots onboard." He said.
"I'm coming with you" the femme said drowsily, though he knew he would not talk her out of it, so simply answered with 'ok'.
XXX
The journey to the docking bay had been quick; neither bot really said much, both caught up in their own thoughts. But once they arrived, they instantly greeted the Autobots, though most of them seemed a little nervous about being in the presence of the Decepticon leader and his mate; but did not want to be rude.
"Jazz" the large silver mech said, as he greeted the Autobot third; his servo gripping the smaller mechs in a gesture of respect. "I will lead you to the conference room, where Optimus and Prowl will meet us" he said, as he turned to lead the Autobots through the base. He sent a quick comm to Cobalt, instructing him to lead Optimus and Prowl to the conference room.
XXX
When Megatron and Firewing arrived with the Autobots to the conference room, Cobalt was already there with the Autobot leader and second. "Thank you Cobalt" he said, causing the mech to bow slightly before turning to leave. Megatron opened the doors allowing the Autobots to file in, before following them in. He sat at the end of the long table, in the command chair; his mate by his side, the Autobots taking up positions at the other end. "Firstly, I would like to thank the Autobots for providing support in our time of need" he started, Optimus nodding in appreciation. "I am also deeply sorry about the condition of your scout, Bumblebee. I will provide anything he may need in his recovery" the silver mech said.
"Your generosity is appreciated Megatron" the blue and red Autobot said, before his optics softened as he looked at the red seeker. "And in return, I would like to offer our assistance and skills in finding Sentinel and your son" his optics did not miss the small tears that ran down the femmes faceplates. "Prowl, please tell us your plan" he said, turning to his second in command.
Prowl pulled out a datapad full of notes and strategies, he had immediately started planning how to track and take down the disgraced Prime the moment the youngling had been taken. "I have put together a rough strategy, and am open to ideas as we go" he started discussing what he had already started planning, with the first and most important objective was to locate and rescue the youngling; Firefall, the second objective; to detain Sentinel to be put on trial for his crimes.
XXXXX