Issue #6

• Writer - Simon Furman
• Inker - Elaine To
• Colorist - Rob Ruffolo
• Colorist - David Cheung
• Colorist - Elliot Haauchik
• Editor - Roger Lee
• Penciler - Don Figueroa

Summary

  In a flashback, the newly-appointed Optimus Prime receives a data disc from Gravitas, leader of the Autobot Council, containing the gathered wisdom of past Primes.

  In the present, Cybertron erupts with violent energy as it begins its planetary mechaformation (from Starscream's command last issue). While the Autobots are pinned down, Starscream revels in the havoc being wreaked across the surface, even as it forces Shockwave to order a sudden Decepticon retreat from Iacon. Down in the planetary core, Optimus Prime is hunting for Megatron when he is attacked from behind. Fully embracing in the joy of battle, Prime quickly sends Megatron reeling, and prepares to deliver the killing blow...

  Back in the engine room, Scrapper attempts to abort Cybertron's transformation, but is stopped short by Starscream. The trapped Autobots are suddenly joined by Grimlock and Optimus Prime, whose firepower give them an opportunity to go after the planetary turbines. The tide of the battle quickly turns, and Starscream beats a hasty retreat. Wheeljack destroys the main turbine, and the Autobots barely escape the cataclysmic explosion as the mechaforming process is aborted.

  Optimus Prime leads the Autobots planetside, where they are greeted by the sight of the shattered ruins of Iacon. Optimus' original idea of abandoning Cybertron is brought up again, but now Prime dismisses it, as he finally realizes that abandoning Cybertron would simply escalate the Decepticons' plans for conquest. Back underground, Soundwave and the Insecticons discover Megatron, who has forgotten everything about his battle with Optimus Prime.

  Later, Optimus Prime confesses to Grimlock that he now understands Grimlock's lust for battle, even as he battles to resist the temptation. He then produces the data disc he was given earlier and throws it away, declaring that he will abandon the way of past Primes and find his own path to wisdom.