— Transformers: Prime —

The Battle of Earth ended in crushing defeat for the Autobots: the Energon shield collapsed under a barrage of Nemesis weapons, and the remnants of Optimus Prime's squad were forced to retreat—only to fall into an ambush. The Decepticons, intoxicated with triumph, refrained from finishing off their enemies—the thought of utter humiliation was far more palatable. The prisoners were brought aboard the Nemesis, where Megatron personally ordered a "memorial photo": the victors forming a tight circle around the chained Autobots, demonstrating their absolute superiority.

By the time the prisoners were brought out onto the Nemesis's main deck, the air was already buzzing with the Decepticons' jubilant cries. The photo idea was Starscream's—he was the first to shout that such a moment couldn't be missed and demanded that Soundwave prepare a recording immediately. Without further ado, Soundwave activated the holographic projector, transforming it into a semblance of a camera: the shimmering lens hovered in midair, scanning the space.

The Autobots weren't asked.

Megatron, his manipulators crossed, watched coldly as the Vehicons roughly dragged the prisoners to their designated locations. Optimus Prime was thrown into the center, directly in front of them—so that he would appear broken but still recognizable on camera. As Prime attempted to straighten up, one of the Vehicons, with a mocking growl, pressed down on his shoulders, forcing him to drop to one knee. This movement, forced and abrupt, became the most telling detail of the future recording.

Bumblebee, unable to bear it, lunged forward when they tried to place him next to Megatron—but the chain embedded in the deck yanked him back with such force that he nearly collapsed. The remaining Autobots stood surrounded by enemies, feeling the cold metal chill not only their limbs but their wills as well. Ratchet, usually one to vent his contempt, this time merely clenched his fists, knowing that any movement could cost one of his comrades a spark. Arcee stared straight ahead, as if through all the Decepticons, refusing to acknowledge the reality of what was happening.