The Gray Race

• Writer - Brad Mick
• Writer - Adam Patyk
• Penciler - Rob Ruffolo
• Inker - Erik Sander
• Inker - Rob Armstrong
• Colorist - David Cheung
• Colorist - Josh Perez
• Lettering - Ben Lee

Summary

  Under attack from the Deluxe Insecticons, the Micromasters try to fight back, though their efforts are hampered because the Autobots are unarmed. They're saved by the sudden arrival of an armored tank, which quickly scatters the scavengers, then Groundshaker emerges and introduces himself. He offers to take them to Countdown, who wants to speak with Big Daddy; the Autobots accept the offer, and depart with Groundshaker.

  As the Autobots leave, Shockwave arrives, and offers to make amends with Barricade for his earlier ill treatment of them (see previous issue). The Race Track Patrol decline, however, and Shockwave lets them leave without incident -- but not before secretly catching a stragglinbg Micromaster and throwing him as "payment" to a cave full of scavengers...

  In the assault tank, Big Daddy quizzes Groundshaker, who confirms that he's a first-generation Micromaster -- originally a full-sized Autobot who was converted into a Micro form. Groundshaker explains that the Hot Rod Patrol are inexperienced youngsters, then leads them to Countdown, who tries to recruit them for a "sacred mission" he discovered on his journeys. Confused, Big Daddy politely explains that they're not ready to join up with anyone just yet, and Countdown lets them go.

  The Hot Rod Patrol eventually reach Little Iacon, a secret rough-and-tumble Micromaster city where factions are ignored. As everyone mingles, Greaser tells Motorhead that Crunch is dead, to which Crunch feels guilty over the matter. Meanwhile, Big Daddy runs into Barricade and Road Handler, then accuses the latter of not supporting him when he walked out on the Autobots. In response, Road Handler challenges Big Daddy to a race, and everyone sets aside their disagreements to see.

  The race is a no-holds-barred lap around the Micromaster city, and Road Handler is the reigning champion. Big Daddy tries his best, but despite his bravado, gets out-maneuvered and out-driven by Road Handler. Instead of gloating, however, he explains to Big Daddy that he shouldn't try to use others to make his points, and leaves Big Daddy to dwell on his lesson. As the other Micromasters leave, the rest of the Hot Rod Patrol console Big Daddy on his loss, unaware that they're being targeted...

  In Cybertron orbit, a Decepticon spaceship has received clearance to land. Inside are Skystalker and Skyhopper, who are relishing their return as a new opportunity for conquest...