105/The People of Cybertron vs. Starscream of Vos

**Prowl has posed:**
Today is the big day. The trial of the vorn. Starscream of Vos has been arrested and now must stand trial for his crimes against Cybertron. Thousands are gathered at Raskol Arena on Luna-2 to bear witness to the event, while millions more are watching on the live feeds all across the planet.

    As the time to begin draws near, Starscream is escorted out to a central platform before the members of the Grand Convocation, including Optimus Prime. As per usual, Prowl is in charge of security, and he can be seen standing near the front of the stands, watching as two rather bulky guards flank the seeker on his way to the platform.

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
Optimus Prime takes a seat across from the infamous seeker, surveying him quietly. Then he glances around, the giant crowd making him slightly nervous. He places a hand on his helm, and glances over at Prow. For a moment, he looks uncertain. He hesitates, then motions urgently for Prowl to come over.

 Somewhere near the back of the arena, Starscream may notice and feel more at ease when a familiar scientist files in behind a group of mechs looking for a good place to survey the trial.

**Starscream has posed:**
If anything good can come out of this situation right now, it is the fact that Starscream is out of that small cell and back up on the planets surface. He was losing his grip on his phobia and if it hadn't of been for the guards cuffing him and dragging him out, he'd still be standing there convinced the walls were going to cave in him.

But that was a few minutes ago, this is now and right now the Vosian is standing there in all his arrogant glory throwing a glare toward Prowl and a suspicous look toward Optimus Prime. But as he scans the crowd he notices Jetfire and for a split second his face shows surprise. The look is gone that quick and with a almost snide smirk the Seeker watches Prime motion for Prowl. He wonders just who will dominate that 'conversataion' and in the meantime stands there silently.

**Overlord has posed:**
One cannot try a Decepticon without the Decepticons being present. Indeed, with the masses gathering, the Decepticons are free to do what they do best. Deceive.

Arenas are a strong point for one in particular within their ranks, and Overlord was quick to capitalize on it. A vendor stall is all it takes to provide cover, and from there, he is watching the scene on a datapad with a slight sneer on his face while a few other hapless conscripts handle the cover-activity of serving up 'celebratory' drinks to the crowds.

Why drinks? That...is a very, very good question. Seems they are rather popular, though, as...well, they're free for those celebrating the grand trial.

**Prowl has posed:**
Celebrating a trial? Well, perhaps celebrating the fact that Starscream is finally being apprehended. Oh what does it matter? Any excuse to treat oneself to omse drinks, right?

    Prowl obeys the summons and comes over closer. "Yes sir?" He asks, leaning in, in the case that whatever Prime has to say is confidential.

    In the meantime, Justice Tyrest stands up from his seat among the members of the Convocation, and begins to speak to those looking on. "Good cycle, Cybertron. Today we are gathered here to bear witness as Starscream of Vos is made to answer for his crimes against the people. Let this trial be the first of many fair determinations of justice to come..."

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
"..." Optimus scoots over on the bench he's sitting on and pats the spot next to him. "...just sit down," he says, his blue optics surveying the crowd uneasily again. He pauses a bit awkwardly. "That's all," he says.

 Jetfire makes his way through the crowd carefully, eventually taking a seat near the front. He makes optic contact with Starscream briefly before looking away, as if ashamed his friend is standing trial for such crimes.

**Starscream has posed:**
Starscream watches Prowl sit like a puppybot and then hears Justice Tyrest speak. He would roll his optics if he could, or fold his arms but he cant since hes in energon cuffs. "Yes let this trial be the first of many to show the corruption of the /Autobot/ justice system -- and I say that loosely." his voice is tinged with sarcasm and a bit of mockery topped with a smattering of arrogant humor. Is that possibe? Of course it is, this is Starscream of Vos.

**Overlord has posed:**
Overlord watches the gathering and the commencement before looking at the Nameless Ones serving up the drinks. They offer up a ledger with the number of rounds 'passed around' so far and he gives a curt nod before making his way to the back of the stall and opening up a chest, drawing out the various pieces of his blaster and starting to assemble it.

"Don't worry. We'll begin soon. A trial like this will always have a fair bit of...pomp to go with it, so we have time." He looks at one of the servers. "Wait for my signal, then let the show begin."

**Prowl has posed:**
Prowl sits down as requested, giving Optimus a look that is halfway between exasperation and puzzlement.

    Tyrest glares at Starscream when he interrupts the speech. "Silence, do not speak out of turn." he rebukes, although he does not sound particularly angry. He then continues, glancing down at a datapad occsionally. "Let this trial be marked as in commencement. Starscream of Vos, you have been charged with the following: multiple counts of armed robbery, assault, homicide, destruction of state property, extortion, passage of counterfeit funding, obstruction of justice, supplying known criminals with illegal weaponry, multiple counts of assaults/attacks on state officers and officials, kidnapping, receipt and resale of stolen goods, fradulent presentation of yourself as a state official, and above all, treason of the highest order."

    Once the list has been read off, he focuses back in on Starscream. "Starscream of Vos, how do you plead to these charges? You may now give an answer."

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
"Sitting is good for you, you know," Optimus adds politely and quietly, "you should probably sit more often."

 Jetfire's optics widen a little when Starscream starts spouting some Beyonce levels of sass, and he lets out a tiny gasp. "<Starscream, if you want to walk, I strongly suggest you refrain from making comments like that>" he privately comms the seeker.

**Starscream has posed:**
Starscream raises an optics ridge when he is told to be silent. Then the charges are rattled off. He thinks to himself 'I never obstucted justice' but outloud he says, "Not guilty." Really that wasn't a surprise now was it?

**Overlord has posed:**
"Melt him in the slag pits!" The call comes from someone in the masses watching the proceedings.

"As if a Decepticon would get a fair trial!"

"Scripted! Just get to the end and kill him!"

Overlord listens to the call-outs and glances at the two in the stall with him, who nod curtly and begin to close up the shop. Quite a few drinks went out already, and now it's time to get to work. One begins working inside a small crate similar to the one Overlord's own blaster was kept in, and the other simply disappears into the crowd as various 'plants' begin to chant opposing and angry remarks, some calling for death, others decrying a farce.

With a smirk as he steeples his fingers, Overlord simply waits for his cue.

**Prowl has posed:**
When the shouting starts, Tyrest raps his staff rather loudly on the ground. "Order!" He shouts, before turning back to Starscream. "Very well." He replies with a nod as Starscream gives a not guilty plea. "State your defense."

    Prowl ignores the comment about sitting, continuing to watch the proceeding with a somewhat disgusted look on his face. Heh. Of -course- he thinks he isn't guilty.

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
Optimus Prime watches the crowd grow a little bit rowdy and a concerned look crosses his features. His optics land briefly on Overlord before he looks away, his attention diverted to Tyrest.

 Jetfire glances around a bit nervously and elbows his way to the very front, watching Starscream uncertainly to see what the seeker has to say in defense of his 'not guilty' plea.

**Starscream has posed:**
"My defense?" Starscream begins slyly, "Why don't we start with your proof? Why don't we start with a review of the corruption of the council -- the Autobots. View my charges with the senates 'track record' and ask me to show my defense again?" he nods toward Optimus Prime. "Ask the new /Prime/ to show the proof I have supposedly done all these things." he pauses a beat then continues. "Regardless of what any of you say; my defense to those charges are the fact that I am standing here alive and well. And the only reason for that was not because any of you wanted to do the proper thing, no. The only reason why Im repaired and whole again from my capture, was for all of you to maintain your image -- which we all know is tarnished beyond all hope of redemption."

**Overlord has posed:**
The mech who had snuck his way into the crowd is on a mission indeed. Those drinks, the ones so willingly offered free to the masses? They may not be everything they appear to be...and he makes his way over to a group that is starting to pick up the chant for justice and a swift execution.

The other from the drink station is carefully assembling his own little toy, a sniper rifle by the looks, from the confines of the closed stand. As for Overlord?

He's already on the move while his plants continue to work at riling up the crowd. Pulling a small transmitter out, he presses the button and those who are involved in the scheme are given a small countdown...

10... 9... 8...

The 'sniper' settles himself into position and draws a bead on, of all heads present, Starscream's own.

7... 6... 5...

**Prowl has posed:**
"Hn." Tyrest doesn't seem to be either rattled or angry by the allegations. "Starscream, you know very well that no one can ever 'prove' anything. Only the quality of evidence may be evaluated. But very well, let the evidence be presented." He turns toward the Convocation. "Let the Convocation deliberate over Starscream's plea. In the meantime, if any witneses wish to c--"

    However, before Tyrest can finish, Prowl suddenly stands up angrily. "Objection!" he exclaims loudly. "Why do we need to present evidence that everyone has already -seen-, time and again?! Must we thrust ourselves through the agonizing moment of betrayal yet -again-? -Everyone- has seen the footage, Justice Tyrest. Everyone -knows- he posed as a Senator during Zeta's time as Prime. Everyone has -seen- the wreckage of the Primacy Auditorium and the Basilica. Everyone has seen the -results- of the various terrorist attacks. In Iacon, Vos, Ibex, and more. So unless he can prove to us beyond a reasonable doubt that he is -not- in fact in any way affiliated or supportive of the violent insurrectionists responsible for these acts of savagery, he is as guilty as any of them."

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
All of a sudden, Jetfire stands up. Calmly and quietly but without reserve, the scientist makes his way onto the platform where Starscream is standing, blocking the sniper's clear shot of Starscream. He raises a hand politely at Tyrest, looking out at the crowd in front of him, collected. "Justice Tyrest, if you will so kindly allow me to have a few words, I would be very honored," he says. He glances briefly over at Prowl, his gaze level.

 Optimus seems very surprised. "..." He too looks over at Prowl. "...interesting," he mutters.

 "I would like to ask a question," Jetfire says calmly. "Are you trying Starscream for his previous crimes, or are you trying him for trespassing?"

**Prowl has posed:**
Tyrest listens to Prowl, and then Jetfire. "The defendant is to answer for all previous crimes against Cybertron." He answers, then turns to Starscream. "How does the defendant answer to the objection?"

**Starscream has posed:**
Starscream's optics dart everywhere taking in the sudden activity in the crowds and the 'refreshment' stand as it were. A slight smirk appears and then Jetfire walks up. He locks optics with the mech for a moment and then focuses on Tyrest. "The objection should be overruled at the very least. Now let me ask you this; Is-- or was the Senate that corrupt, that introverted, that individually focused that they couldn't even detect a 'fake' senater in their midst? They say Seekers all look alike but this is a bit much I think. How could I have possible 'faked' being a senater when we were in extreme public optic?" his smirks becomes a grin then. "Jetfire brings up a good point. Again I say Prowl's objection should be overruled so Jetfire may speak. If you truly beleive in justice, Tyrest you will let those who chose speak in my defense... if not, well, then lets this farce continue to its prepplanned conclusion."

**Prowl has posed:**
Tyrest doesn't seem to agree or disagree, however, he nods toward Jetfire, waiting for the scientist to speak his piece.

**Overlord has posed:**
Preplanned conclusions go well beyond the Autobots' desires, it seems... The timer continues.

 4...3...

"Prowl's right! He's guilty!"

"If you're going to drag your feet, I'll do this myself!"

2...1.

Perhaps, much to Jetfire's dismay...or joy, the sniper shoots. Obscured targets, after all, are nothing to be concerned over when it comes to inciting a bit of rage. Besides, the blast itself is...tame, mostly harmless to anyone with a sense of armor.

The mech in the crowd drops a holdout blaster and yells, "He's got a gun!" Promptly, the nearest scapegoat of a mech is tackled and begins to get beaten into submission.

"I would say I'm surprised, Optimus," Overlord makes his way up to, and on to, the 'presentation' platform. "Dragging Tyrest into this farce of a trial to benefit your Autobot's control of the masses. You're doing well, I see." He looks out at the crowd. "Reminds me of the crowds I'd get in the arena. Hungry for violence."

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
Jetfire is about to speak when suddenly, he gets shot by...?! He isn't sure who shot him, but he stumbles backwards, almost bumping into Starscream. "...What the hell?" he mutters.

 Optimus stands, stepping protectively in front of Prowl, looking alarmed. His gaze falls on Overlord, and his optics narrow. "If this is your attempt to free Starscream, I'm sorry, but you're taking the hard route," he says, "Starscream could walk, no one knows the verdict of the trial, it's hardly begun," Prime says, glancing back at Prowl.

 Jetfire, despite the fact that his armor has been singed, nods a bit weakly. "There should be no such thing as a trial that doesn't require any evidence. Both opposing parties should bring evidence supporting their claims and all of it should be examined objectively, without biased. You of all people Prowl, I should think would respect such a request."

**Starscream has posed:**
Starscream braces himself to try and keep Jetfire from falling or toppling him over as well. Then he raises his voice and says. "Is this the new Autobot Justice? Shoot the witness before they can defend me?"

**Overlord has posed:**
Overlord looks at Jetfire. "Oh...my. That is unfortunate." He turns his attention back to Optimus and can only smirk a bit. "Me? Free Starscream? No. However, looking at this...tribunal that has been put together to charge him, I have to wonder what Autobot motivation is. Show the crowd some strength? Show them that the big, bad Decepticons are no more? Look at them, Prime, they are seething for death to happen today..."

There is indeed a brawl breaking out as both the circumstance and that unrefined energon kick in. "Your people, Optimus. The result of your leadership and your glorious convocation. I'm so glad. But, I could gloat on such a thing all day long."

He turns to Tyrest. "You are a level-headed mech. The law wins, always. I'd like to propose the notion of mistrial. It is clear that this 'citizen' of Cybertron has not been treated fairly, presumed guilty without proper representation or even convicting evidence. The climate is hostile, and the motivations to press for a sentence without due process-" he motions to Prowl, "as indicated by his outburst hint that the situation is both contrived and a setback to the neutrality of both the Convocation and this new 'ruling' party.

"The Decepticons, such as Starscream, were not exiled from Cybertron. Megatron was. Why is Starscream going to be judged by the actions of a leader who was already punished for the Decepticon name, I ask? Does that not violate the processes as a whole?" He looks at the crowd. "The riots are beginning... you know, I could offer some assistance with crowd control, unless you'd rather take control of /your/ people as /you/ deem fit."

**Prowl has posed:**
Indeed, security immediately jump on the scapegoat, wrestling him to the ground. And then Overlord shows up. Tyrest glares at the hulking Decepticon. "Overlord. You certainly have some struts to show yourself here. Megatron was punished by his own people--by you. But even you cannot deny that the actions of the Decepticons have had immense repercussions--repercussions that have impacted our society on a global scale." he motions toward the crowd. "The evidence is here. We have given the people the opportunity to speak for themselves. And speak they will--but not on -your- terms. As our intelligence officer has said, he will be given the chance to prove that he is not affiliated with the insurgents who are responsible for the destruction and acts of violence against innocent civilians." He pauses. "Would you care to join your compatriot in the stasis cuffs?"

    Prowl looks rather furious at this new development. Of -course- the Decepticons would try to disrupt justice and use this trial to make Optimus and Convocation look bad. "Arrest him!" The chief of intelligence shouts, pointing at Overlord. At this, several units charge in and open fire--with stun weapons only this time, but open fire nonetheless.

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
"N--Wait!" Optimus cries, his optics widening. But he's a little bit too late, security has already attacked the Decepticon officer, stun weapons blazing.

 Jetfire's optics survey all the chaos that's starting to unfold. "..." His expression is pained, but he doesn't comment. "<This is going to escalate.. it's not going to be long before all of this turns south>" he radios Starscream. "<I have an idea>"

**Overlord has posed:**
Overlord looks at Starscream, then to Tyrest. "Is that all it is? Proof he's not a 'terrorist'?" He tsks. "Come now, Tyrest. Look at him. He's a snivelling coward...you know the alleged Decepticon way, yes? Might makes right?" He straightens up. "I wouldn't even tolerate him in my ranks if I had a say-so in the matter. He's-"

Overlord stops as Prowl shoots him, turning to give the Autobot an incredulous look before turning to brush the smoldering spot on his armor. "Autobots never fail to deliver. Yet we are the ones riling up the people of Cybertron?" He narrows his optics. "Tyrest, before I decide to exercise my right of self-defense, I recommend scanning the most recent injury on my back. Cross-reference the energy signature with this coward in shackles here and you might realize something... He's a traitor to the Decepticons as well. Now...are you going to control this trial? Or is the riot going to take over? It's clear Optimus Prime has no control here. I came peacefully expecting law. This is not law." He pulls his own weapon out, but doesn't raise it.

Yet.

Though, another signal may go out to a nearby backup.

**Starscream has posed:**
Starscream shoots Overlord a dirty look but right now is going to let a lot of what he just said slide because he just wants his freedom. Besides there is always his convesation with Grimlock. He gets Jetfire's radio transmission and just nods at him slightly. He can't radio right now as its been blocked with the energy cuffs.

**Blast Off has posed:**
Among the crowd, just slightly off to himself and observing at one of the higher vantage points- but not enough to stand out or anything -is a certain brown and purple sniper. Violet optics scan the crowd, paying particular attention to Starscream and Overlord- as well as Autobot security. Blast Off says nothing, counting on the crowds and his dark colors to escape notice and blend in. However, his hand rests at his side, ready to draw his ionic blaster out of subspace in an instant. For now, though, he simply watches...and waits.

**Prowl has posed:**
The security detail, including Prowl, immediately hold their fire when Optimus tells them to wait, though they are giving him shocked expressions. Prowl especially looks frustrated also. What's Optimus thinking?!

    Tyrest folds his arms. "Starscream, how do you answer to that? Are you indeed a traitor to your own people? Have you in fact intentionally attacked your compatriot?"

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
"Please," Optimus pleads, "if you came peacefully, then I too, come in peace." He disarms himself, tossing his blaster onto the ground. "If you want a controlled trial, that adheres to the law then you have to abide by it as well. Stand down, disarm yourself and call off whoever else you brought here with you. As for Starscream, leave him alone. Everyone, including criminals to be or not to be, deserves a fair trial and that is what we will give him. There's no need to act out in violence as nothing has even been decided yet." He glances over at Jetfire. "Not everyone may agree, but Jetfire is right. We should gather all the evidence and examine it objectively. Starscream has a right to disprove himself as criminal."

 Jetfire optics become hopeful. Starscream had shot Overlord?? Perhaps it isn't so far fetched to think he might change his mind or his ways! He watches Starscream carefully, to see how the seeker will respond.

**Starscream has posed:**
"I would not attack my compatriots." Starscream begins smoothly. "My targeting systems were malfunctioning and the the unfortunate result was in shooting Overlord instead of the real target." he pauses a moment then continues. "There is no way to deny that either." he gives Overlord a look. "I am not a coward but I am also not a terrorist. He is correct though in the opinion that Megatron has been made to pay for the transgressions against the mechs of this planet. Surely you can not condemn one for simply following orders now can you?"

**Overlord has posed:**
Overlord nods at Optimus' words and puts his own weapon away as well. "Smart move." He does give Starscream a quirk of his optical brow at the denial, but...well, one can't fault an idiot for being an idiot.

He clears his throat. "Right then...if we're ready, shall we resume this charade? I've still yet to see any proper evidence beyond the remarks of a biased...individual.

**Blast Off has posed:**
Blast Off lifts an optic ridge at all this, but otherwise makes no moves. Mentally he's already measured distance, made wind and laserfire velocity calculations, and shot every one of those Autobots in the head. Imagine the bragging rights if he offlined Optimus Prime? He contents himself with such happy little musings as he continues to watch.

**Prowl has posed:**
Prowl doesn't look happy, and neither do many of the other guards, but they stand down anyway, lowering their weapons. Tyrest nods and sighs. "Very well then, let the Convocation review the evidence and deliberate over any statements that have been made. Starscream refuses to deny his affiliation, but should only Megatron be punished for the actions of an entire group?"

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
Optimus looks relieved that Overlord appears to have been diffused for the time being. He steps back and takes a seat on the bench he'd been sitting on before, allowing Tyrest to ask an honest question.

 Jetfire steps forward boldly. "No," he says, "I don't think so. The actions of an individual should be determined separately. Many Decepticons may have had little other option but to align themselves with Megatron. Poverty exists everywhere and Megatron was charismatic. If you were an Empty destined for the scrap heap or worse, how could you not be swept along by his speeches of peace an equality? Likewise, even a rich person like Starscream could have easily been enticed and deceived into thinking Megatron really was promising a better future, but once brought into the fold realized there was nothing but fear and oppressive tyranny."

**Starscream has posed:**
For once Starscream keeps his mouth shut and lets Jetfire talk. He does though study Overlord from time to time.

**Overlord has posed:**
Overlord looks from Optimus to Prowl, and then back to Tyrest with a slight smirk. "Let me ask the current 'figurehead' of leadership here..." He looks at Optimus squarely. "As leader of the Autobots, would you be of the mind that the one leading the charge is the one who holds responsibility for the actions of those under him? If they wish to move on, to be a part of a proper Cybertron...would you deny them?"

He shrugs slightly. "If the Decepticons were the ones here, and Prowl were standing where Starscream is now...would you not be the first to claim that your actions were the reason he was being tried as criminal, and contest his being tried for your role as his guiding hand? You know Megatron. How many were swayed by him and pulled into the fold with the delusion that they were simply...doing what was right?" He looks pointedly at Prowl. "Or...will this war simply never end and we expect to continue fighting until the end of time?"

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
Blast Off is still just watching and waiting.

 Optimus glances over at Jetfire. "No.. actually, I agree with Jetfire. Each individual cannot be held responsible for the crimes their leader committed. However, it does not excuse them entirely. They did consciously make that choice to follow him, regardless of whether he deceived them or not. And any crimes they committed outside of his command, they must be held responsible."

 Optimus' optics dim, and he glances out at the crowd, suddenly seeming self conscious. "I..." He looks down at the ground. "I would... I would feel responsible. But I am not Megatron, and he is not me. Whether he feels responsible or would be happy as to where his movement is going, none of us may ever know. But I personally, would gladly accept blame for any crime committed by my soldiers in my name. Even if it truly ended up not being a result of anything I said or did directly, still, I would take the blame. Because it's my responsibility to care and look after them, and if they have gone astray, it would.. be my fault they did."

**Starscream has posed:**
Starscream looks at Prime. "Such glorious words, /Prime/." he begins arrogantly. "Such noble words to say and even more noble words to live by. The fact you are a /Prime/ make it impossible to see the latter of that. There is one thing you have said though that is wrong by anyones standards and it shows how niave you really are. You say mechs consciously make the choice to follow who they do and by proxy follow orders given by theone they follow. I say no. There was no choice of will to disobey Megatron. Even if you did not want to follow those orders, if you valued your function cycle you did what he ordered. And yet here \*I\* stand on trial for following his orders."

**Overlord has posed:**
Overlord looks at Starscream, but manages to keep any signs of distaste for the pompous words. "Optimus...look at the crowd. They were calling for blood and iron earlier. Even your own are ready and willing to convict based on the fact one side won a war while the other side lost. You can perpetuate the war, keep it going, and push this trial further...or you can start to make amends and show your people gathered here," he motions to the crowd, "that things can move on. It may not be perfect, it may not be swift, but we are all living here on one Cybertron, yes? Can equality begin to assert itself while a war is still being waged?"

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
"They weren't doing that the whole time," Optimus says, suddenly catching on. He glances out at the crowd. He isn't sure what Overlord did, but the crowd is acting rather abnormal and he has definitely noticed. He frowns. "...are you telling me we should execute Starscream immediately?"

 "NO!" Jetfire cries out in Starscream's defense. "Justice Tyrest, Optimus, please, maintain your sense of honor and dignity -- this Decepticon is trying to incite chaos, don't fall for his bait! We can be reasonable and allow Starscream a fair trial, that is the lawful thing to do. He can walk, but the trial needs to be held first--"

**Overlord has posed:**
Overlord blinks. "I am doing what? I'm saying...let's move on. Drop the charges. We walk away. Healing begins." He snorts. "I'm, quite frankly, offended you think I'm here to incite chaos." He straightens up and frowns. "But if that's all you think, and all you feel...then, no. None of you are ready to move on." He starts to walk away.

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
"I'm sorry," Optimus says, "but you're guilty of the same thing you've accused Prowl of," he says, "coming to a decision without evidence, or thorough investigation. If you don't want us to be hasty and rash in our ruling, and would like lawfulness, well, this is what the law requires of all persons put on trial, regardless of whether they are Autobot or Decepticon." He glances at Starscream. "You say that there was no choice of will to disobey Megatron. So am I correct in saying that you never dared to disobey Megatron, and have never run your own agenda outside of what he commanded?" Prime somewhat already knows the answer to that question, even if Starscream is to answer in the negative.

 Jetfire sighs, and wonders who's side Overlord is really on...

**Starscream has posed:**
Starscream stares at Jetfire like hes an alien because hes insising on a trial instead of a simpl mistrail and release. Then he turns his gaze toward Optimus, "My personal agenda has nothing to do with this. I am on trial for following Megatron's orders. Keep it straight."

**Overlord has posed:**
Overlord just walks away from the spectacle and clasps his arms behind his back. "If you continue to treat us like monsters, Optimus, then your precious utopia will fail." He gives a slight wave before simply walking away.

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
Optimus is frustrated, but not because Overlord is actually a monster who deserves to be treated as such. He can't seem to get his point across to Overlord, and it makes him tired. Even if Overlord is a monster, he doesn't want to treat him as such. "How am I treating you like a monster?" he pleads, "I am giving Starscream a fair trial, that is what every Cybertronian or person, anywhere, really, deserves. If you are asking me to be biased and simply dismiss any and everything that might incriminate Starscream, I'm sorry, but I can't and won't do that. However, I am not going to dismiss an evidence that proves he should be allowed to walk, either. Like Jetfire said, everything must be looked at objectively."

**Blast Off has posed:**
Yeah, like that Prime, ANY Prime, really believes any of the things he says about justice. It's all just a show he puts on to lull the masses into thinking he's some great guy. Pfft. Well, Blast Off is no fool, and he knows better than to trust Optimus Prime- or any Prime. He's seen this song and dance before. Interesting what Overlord's doing, however. The sniper smiles inwardly as Overlord works the scene without a shot fired. Ok, well... maybe not exactly. There was that one but...

Wait. Blast Off receives a command from Overlord. The Combaticon's optic ridges lift up in mild surprise and he blinks once. There's a moment's hesitation as he considers the consequences of that order but... well, orders are orders and he's here to follow them if needed. Glancing about to make sure no one happens to be looking his way, the sniper takes his weapon from subspace. Quietly. No fuss, no muss. Slowly, he eases into position, leaning against a nearby post for a steady shot as he prepares to fire on his assigned target.

**Prowl has posed:**
Prowl has been more or less sitting there quietly the entire time, listening to this outrageous charade of Overlord's. This was Prime's problem...he was too concerned with hoping that he can somehow win the Decepticons over with his charisma and somehow convince them that he's on their side. Finally, he opens a comm. << Prime, you can't -possibly- be allowing him to just walk away like that. I don't care how much you talk to them, you're not going to convince them you're on their side. Because you're -not-. You can't be. If you won't help me take him down, -I- will do so myself. >>

**Overlord has posed:**
Overlord stops and slowly turns to look back at Optimus. "We fought a war. It's done. We move on. The victor writes history and it seems that, in yours, our disagreement on the future of Cybertron makes us criminal. That, Optimus Prime, is how you paint us to be monsters." He starts back towards the stage. "But that's alright. Between the two of us? I know that someone like you has no clue what moving on means. In the pits, we fought. From the time the fights began to the time the fights ended, we sought to break one another, but once it was over, we became equals again. No grudges. No hate."

He smiles as he looks at the 'Prime'. "But...now that you mention it, now that you say the future of us all is a trial, then I've only got one thing to say to you." He leans in close and looks at the Autobot leader as close to face-to-face as the other mech will allow. "We'll just have to live up to your expectations, won't we. Because...Primus forbid we ever know true equality and peace. How so very similar to the old Senate you are."

Turning to walk away, he takes one step, then turns, his sheild appearing from subspace as he drives it towards the Autobot commander's body, following through in a move that is probably best described by raw brutality. "You want monsters to help keep your masses under control? Well, then we'll give you monsters."

**Blast Off has posed:**
Blast Off receives another order from Overlord, and this time the sniper allows himself the faintest of smiles -here and gone again- as he looks through his gun's sights. His crosshairs are dead center on Starscream's head, for it was Starscream he was ordered to assassinate. And he would have, too, he's a professional and he doesn't let personal doubts get in the way of doing his job. Right? Sorry Starscream.

However, his new orders are much less lethal, and if he's going to shoot Starscream's arms or his cuffs, and face the Seeker later as a Superior Officer, perhaps the cuffs are a better choice. Even if the idea of shooting his arms would give him just a tiny bit of revenge-like satisfaction for that crash over Iacon and subsequent berating. He shifts his aim slightly, then one black finger slowly squeezes the trigger of his weapon, sending a blast shooting down straight towards the cuffs that hold Starscream prisoner.

**Starscream has posed:**
Starscream listens to Overlord some more and it getting really fed up with just standing there with two brute guardmechs on either side of them. But then Blast Off happens. Thankfully the Combaticon is a good shot and with a flash of laserfire and snap the energy cuffs are shot off the Seekers hands.

Now the mech is truly free and with a surge of relief that he can't control, the Air Commander laughs and snaps into Tetrajet mode. "Eat my exhaust." he laughs and lights his afterburners to bolt straight up. The backwash of flame and heat wash over the dias hes standing on and possible/hopefully the two mechs guarding him.

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
"But don't you understand?" The Autobot commander pleads, "that's what I've always wanted, too! Equality. No grudges, no hate. It isn't the future of Cybertron we disagree about, it's the methodology...!" He dutifully ignores Prowl's radio message. "No!" he cries desperately, "Someone has to stop this vicious cycle of revenge. Violence is not always the answer to ending violence!" His comment about the Senate cuts him to the core. "Y-you're wrong. I never wanted this war to begin with. If only true equality and peace weren't so hard attain--"

 Optimus isn't surprised by Overlord's attack, but he doesn't manage to avoid it. When the Decepticon officer nearly plows him over with his shield, he's flattened all the way to the ground. Dazed and bleeding, he lies there, his blaster out of reach. "I... deserved that," he whispers to no one in particular. He rolls over and begins to crawl towards his blaster, which is currently out of his reach.

 Thankfully, Jetfire assists Starscream with two guardmechs next to him by transforming and fleeing the scene as well, 'accidentally' plowing them over as he makes a 180 to exit Raskol arena. "<Be safe, Starscream..>"

**Prowl has posed:**
Prowl curses to himself. -This- was the reason why Prime needed him around. He himself was too...optimistic. He gave people too much benefit of the doubt when they didn't deserve any. He steps in immediately to defend his fearless leader while he reaches for his weapon, launching a missile in Overlord's direction--but of course he hasn't failed to notice the fact that Blast Off was the one who fired that shot to free Starscream. Several other members of security are now headed the Combaticon's way.

    Meanwhile, the crowd is in an absolute uproar. Some are furious and have even begun charging down at Overlord, while others are terrified and stampeding toward the exits.

**Overlord has posed:**
Overlord gives his shield a shake to flick the energon from its surface as he is aware of everything around him, but his focus does not leave Optimus. "You deserve far more, Optimus. I won't kill you today, though. I want you to ruminate on your failures. Look at your people -your Cybertron- and watch as it begins to crumble because when our fight in the pits ended, you treated us as a plague to be treated, not as equals to be consulted or courted."

He affords himself a smirk as he turns to walk away. "Tyrest? There is no law here to uphold. There is only war. There will always be war. You'd best keep well away if you would rather not be forced to pick a side."

The strike against him makes him mis-step, but he only looks back over his shoulder and smirks. "You lost this day. Accept your defeat" He transforms to depart in Starscream's wake.

**Blast Off has posed:**
Like any good sniper, Blast Off hits his target- and then immediately makes to leave. No, he has no intention of sticking around for those security guards. Leaping into the air, the Combaticon transforms into shuttle mode. His thrusters fire up and icy cold smoke billows out, covering the nearby area- and nearby people- in a frosty white haze as he rockets into the sky, heading towards the stars.

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
By that time, Optimus has picked up his blaster, but is too weak and of low morale to do anything other than watch the fleeing Decepticons retreat. It's a bit too late to try to contain them anyway. He glances at Prowl, his optics mournful. "....you didn't have to do that," he says, in reference to Prowl protecting him from Overlord.

 Moments later, he sinks to his knees, bleeding out, optics flickering. "Get to safety," he tells Prowl weakly, "D-don't.. worry.. about me.."

**Prowl has posed:**
Tyrest just shakes his head as Overlord leaves, looking rather disgusted with this whole ordeal. "I'm sorry, Prime." he sighs. "But I've had quite enough of this." And with that, he stalks off.

    The security details attempt to make chase, but none of them are fast enough to catch Starscream, and the arena floor is now too jammed up with either fleeing or angered citizens for them to move across the ground quickly enough.

    Prowl is -definitely- not happy. "I told you to arrest him immediately. Look Optimus--I know you have good intentions, and I know you want to believe the best about everyone but we can't take any more chances. This was just further proof of that." He speaks into the comms again to call for medevac. He sighs again. "I'll see you at the Decagon." With that, he also transforms and heads off as the medical personnel arrive to assist the Prime.

**Optimus Prime has posed:**
Optimus' optics dim. "Good intentions, huh. Even I'm not so sure about that anymore," he says weakly, "if I really wanted what's best, would I behave like this?" He passes into temporary stasis lock as the medevac arrives to take him away.