Markatron's character development commentary: Subject: Armor Golden Rod (Golden Rod + Golden Eagle) Function: Autobot Emissary Golden Rod is the cousin of Hot Rod and Gold Bug (Bumblebee)! Even with a long heritage of Autobot legends. Golden Rod has been able to distinguish himself among his elders and cousins. Golden Rod conducted raids on several other planets leading a small group of Autobot commandos. Long time friends with Autobot Moonracer he has joined this group of Autobot females to fight Decepticons on Cybertron. Together with their "Armormaster" animals, they are determined to fight the good fight on the Transformer home world. With wisdom from many worlds and his own natural gift of gab, Armor Golden Rod acts as emissary for the Autobots in a variety of capacities. He was formally trained in forensics on Cybertron. He constantly learned and observed from his countless off-world encounters. He is a strong believer in diplomacy. But he knows when to back down or use military tactics. He is often called upon for public appearances when official public relations are needed. He also debates with the neutral factions on Cybertron in regards to their participation in The War. Has been known to be hostage negotiator and legal adjunct. Golden Rod doesn't just talk, he listens. He's the kind of Transformer who remembers personal details about the people he meets. A source of support and care to friends. And to enemies, he is one who remembers how they fight and can use that to his advantage. Even when Golden Eagle is in armor form, he keeps a watchful eye out. While, Golden Rod is engaged in peace talks or attending a gala, Golden Eagle will be busy identifying each participant and keeping a watchful eye for danger. He's keenly observing if people are telling the truth or if they are about to go for the gun. Golden Eagle's head forms Armor Golden Rod's helmet. the wings and tail feathers become Armor Golden Rod's cloak draping over his left arm. The armor running the length of the eagle belly (from neck to tail) forms a strap over his shoulder. This strap has various compartments and grenades. Eagle legs move to the back allowing the missile pod and double-mortar launcher to mount on his shoulders. The right talons drape on his right shoulder. Sides of the eagle become thruster packs on the sides of Golden Rod's calves. Panels add to his waist shields. My first sketch of Golden Rod was actually meant to be the next incarnation of Hot Rod. This time, he would have the phoenix more integrated into his transformation. His function would change from Cavalier to Diplomat. With this regal attire, he could act as an Autobot Emissary. As nice as this sounds, I felt we needed a totally new charater. However, with such a strong resemblance to Hot Rod, I decided to make him a relative -- a cousin to be precise. I'd keep the basic "function" of this character, though. During a boring meeting, I sketched out what would become his car mode. As you can tell from the scan, I was practicing the eagle on back of the paper. I like the spoiler design. I was considering using Golden Eagle to provide an American-Indian headdress and introduce an Indian theme to his armor form. However, this was introducing too many facets to a character. I decided the "cousin" aspect and "emissary" function would be plenty to flesh out his personality. And a small FYI, I've sketched out a Markatronic Rodimus Prime with his trailer becoming the phoenix and then merging like Power Master Optimus Prime. No time estimate when I will have this drawn out.