Penny vs the public

Hospital and Court hearing

Ellie and Penny have arrived at the hospital with a police escort from both Pontypandy and Newtown Police Forces. Everyone who escorted the two were waiting outside the room while Penny was with Ellie in the hospital cubicle. She can see that Penny was having a flashback to the crash when police conducted a sobriety test. "You alright, Penny? You don't seem too happy with something." Ellie asked her friend.

"I'm sorry, Ellie... I just-I just can't deal with it... It's all too much..."

"I know... I know... But I know that everything will work out ok. PC Malcolm and Sergeant Ravani will work something out to keep you safe from this situation happening. Arnold's gonna work something out with the Union. At this point, I know you're on your own but you are never alone. You have all of us. We're all here for you. Ok?"

"Ok... Will you be at the trial, Ellie?"

"Of course, I will. I was tending to Elvis' injuries and I know the conditions. The Barrister said you plead not guilty. So... That's a yes. I will be there for support. Ok?"

"Alright..."

"You'll be ok... If there is anything you need, I am here for you. Ok?"

"Thanks, Ellie. What about Sam and the others? Will they be there?"

No... Arnold will be there as Union rep and South Wales Fire and Rescue will be there."

"You sure???"

"Have I ever let you down, Penny?"

"No..."

"Right. I haven't let you down and I will never let you down."

"You are the best friend I have ever met, Ellie..."

Ellie and Penny hugged each other as Penny needed to relax in a safe environment with Ellie for some time before the trial. Ellie can see the look on her friend's face that trouble was stirring for her. "The trial has lasted for many times... They want to finally hear your side. We got this. Ok?" Ellie told her friend.

"Ok, Ellie..."

"Alright. Let's go."

Ellie and Penny both got changed into formal clothing for the trial. Ellie had her formal Fire Service Uniform and Penny was in a standard business casual suit. The others were waiting for them by the vehicles and Ellie drove Penny in her civilian vehicle while she took time off to assist Penny in the trial for support. "We ready to go?" Her attorney asked.

"Yeah. We're ready. I have some water for her until the trial starts unless she needs it in between breaks."

"Good idea... I'll inform the judge."

"Ok."

Everyone got into the vehicles and prepared for a drive to Cardiff. They saw vehicles in green with the markings "Royal Logistics Corps" escort them on the road to Cardiff. What they are about to expect is a huge crowd and media presence at the crown courts. The drive took at least 2 hours to get there and they were driving very clearly through no traffic as roads were closed since this case made world headlines. The video screens were on. "We are live here in Cardiff as the trial for the injuries of Mr. Doug Holmes is underway at the crown courts. We are seeing the defence arrive with Barrister Gabriela Lopez and the defendant on trial: Firefighter Penny Morris. It is Pandemonium in Cardiff as members of the public are outraged against Firefighter Morris for the accident involving the Fire Engine "Jupiter" and Doug Holmes' car. The lawsuit is worth £10 Million altogether and £5 Million each. Representatives from the firefighters Union are also here in support of Firefighter Morris. As you can see here, the Royal Logistics Corps is forming barricades with Police and Fire Services to keep the public out of the path where the defence and the prosecution enter the building. The case has been brought forth by a High Court Judge. The trial is set to go underway in 2 minutes and the Jury has filed into the room. " The reporter read on British Broadcasting News.