Transformers: Autocracy #1

Issue Details

Synopsis

After standing up to the corrupt government on Cybertron, Orion Pax was dismantled, but later rebuilt by the powers that be to enforce Zeta Prime's authority and serve as a warrior against the "terror" of the Decepticons. To this end, he leads a contingent of Autobots to hunt down Swindle in the streets of Nyon. They finally spot Swindle while he is trying to sell stolen Autobot phase-charges to one of Nyon's sleeper cells. Despite being ordered to stand down, the leader of the sleeper cell refuses to go down with a fight, but is shortly shot in the head by Bumblebee. A firefight ensues, but Orion Pax is able to call in Silverbolt to take out the stolen weapons. Swindle wildly shoots into the crowd, threatening innocent bystanders. When Bumblebee exclaims that the civilians must be protected, Swindle mocks his concern, pointing out that the Autobots under Zeta Prime are oppressing the populace of Cybertron. Taking the opportunity, Orion Pax swoops in and attacks Swindle. With the Decepticon at his mercy, Orion demands that Swindle spill on the details of Megatron's Decepticons. Swindle sticks to the narrative that the Decepticons will bring a new age for all Cybertronians. Orion does not take this answer kindly, beating up Swindle mercilessly in front of a crowd of civilians. The Decepticon can only muse that his point is proven. Orion prepares to blow his head off with his ion blaster, but Bumblebee stops him from his mistake, pointing out the prying eyes of the populace. He wonders why Orion has lost touch with who he was before, but their conversation is interrupted by an explosion. The Autobots survive and spot the bomber, but Orion Pax allows him to escape; they have what they came for. As they roll out, Laserbeak, who has been watching the conflict, spreads his wings to take flight.