This Starscream is not Thundercracker's Starscream.

They look the same from dark helm to silver wings to blue feet, they speak with the same distinctive voice, their histories are almost the same.

But.

But almost isn't close enough, it turns out.

Almost means the one time he tries to run his fingers along the edge of Starscream's wing, he finds himself null-rayed and left to drop on the floor.

Almost means Starscream has no interest in anyone, except for their use in making him the greatest Decepticon leader in history.

Almost means Thundercracker is completely, painfully alone.