The world Meydax-6 is a rare resource mine and synthesis plant on the edge of Autobot space. The galaxy it's in is hazardous enough that Decepticons have avoided it for centuries. Therefore, the only real threats the colonists face are from the planet itself, or rather from the environment. Insectoid creatures of several distinct species were discovered in large underground biomes. They were found to be largely harmless - even when provoked - and provided assistance in mining that eventually led to them becoming integrated into colony life. This, along with several environmental factors, led to the most unexpected and later horrifying events of the colony's history. A large shipment of protoforms was belatedly granted to the colony, securing them nearly one hundred fresh frames. The protoforms were to be activated in groups of ten, educated, and sent to the mining outposts around the main city. Unexpected disaster delayed activity for about a month after one of the more radioactive mining sites experienced a partial meltdown. The radiation itself wasn't lethal or even deemed harmful, but an explosion within the mine caused several to be injured and two to be killed. The protoforms were left in stasis until recovery of the trapped miners was completed. The stasis tubes suffered no damage during the blast or from the radiation that swept the planet. However, activation of the protoforms resulted in immediate abnormalities. The younglings were formed with no vehicle mode, insectoid appearances that mimicked those of the planet's insect natives, and partially organic systems. Some shock and fear sprung up at the reveal. Some bots refused to go near the younglings. Further tests of the young bots proved no true harmful effects. They possessed normal processor functions and spark readings. Only their altered appearances and systems set them apart from other Cybertronians. The panic eventually subsided as the younglings integrated with the colony. Each batch of younglings came out the same altered way, but their forms were quickly proving to be beneficial in their jobs. All the sensory systems that the insectoids had, the younglings had too. Some bots remained wary, but the majority of the colony responded positively to the younglings' resilience and helpfulness in the field. For roughly a decade, the colony functioned as a mostly-whole unit. Word of the first group's altered forms eventually did reach Cybertron. The rumors of organic-influenced bots was nearly instantly quashed. A small task force was sent to kill or retrieve the younglings, and they descended on Meydax-6 out of nowhere. Within a handful of hours, the leader of the colony surrendered the 62 younglings who had survived the attack to the Elite Guard. The entire colony was threatened with treason to speak of what had happened. The colony has since been disbanded. Knawdown and the curled up mech beside him had been working directly with the colony's leader before the attack. They had both shown significant intelligence, enough to be put into advanced scientific educational tracks. Knawdown manages to escape with assistance when the craft carrying them stops to refuel, though he narrowly evades failure trying to bring his friend. His companion is brought to a secure lab and never is seen again.