As leader of the elite Seeker unit, Drench sought to temper the Autobots' repressive rule with a modicum of compassion. Optimus Prime could not abide such weakness in one of his officers, and had Drench killed. When Drench's friend and fellow Seeker Sideswipe turned against the Autobots, inspired in part by Drench's murder, Sideswipe took on Drench's colors as a tribute to his fallen friend.