Judicial Temptations :: WRIOLLETTE

42 :: First Hearing Back

The morning of Neuvillette's court hearing dawned crisp and clear, a welcome contrast to the tumultuous week prior. After his recent bout of illness, it was his first day back in the courtroom, and he felt a blend of anticipation and unease. Wriothesley, on the other hand, was energized by the novelty of his own role. This hearing would be his first since his promotion to deputy chief, and he was eager to see Neuvillette in action again.

As Neuvillette prepared for the hearing, the office was abuzz with activity. Papers shuffled, voices murmured, and the steady clack of heels against marble floors filled the air. Neuvillette's robes—a deep, commanding blue—stood out against the mundane backdrop of the office. They were a symbol of authority and respect, and he wore them with a mix of pride and apprehension. His colleagues were glad to see him back, and they exchanged brief nods and smiles of encouragement.

Wriothesley, dressed in his crisp uniform, stood by the door as Neuvillette finished his preparations. "Ready for today?" Wriothesley asked, his tone light but tinged with genuine curiosity.

Neuvillette adjusted his robes and gave a nod. "As ready as I'll ever be. The case is straightforward, but the stress has been higher than usual lately." His gaze briefly flickered to the stack of case files on his desk, reminders of the work he had fallen behind on.

The courtroom was an imposing space, filled with the whispers of anticipation from those awaiting the proceedings. Neuvillette took his seat behind the grand mahogany desk, and Wriothesley positioned himself behind the defendant, his arms crossed in a silent vigil.

The defendant, a bulky man with a scruffy beard and disheveled clothing, was escorted in with heavy chains clanking. His appearance did little to ease the tension in the room. He was accused of kidnapping and holding a woman hostage, a charge that had already stirred public outrage.

As the trial commenced, the defendant's behavior proved to be a challenge. He was loud, disruptive, and obstinate. "I didn't do it! This is all a setup!" he bellowed, his voice echoing off the high courtroom walls.

Neuvillette, seated at the judge's bench, attempted to maintain order. "Please, refrain from interrupting," he said, his voice firm but controlled. He glanced briefly at Wriothesley, who was watching intently. Despite the calm exterior, Wriothesley's presence was a reminder of the supportive role he played.

The trial dragged on with the defendant's constant interruptions. His shouting and insults towards Neuvillette grew increasingly aggressive. The crowd in the courtroom shifted uneasily, some glancing at Wriothesley, who remained a silent sentinel behind the defendant.

Neuvillette's composure, however, began to waver. His usual grace and authority were strained as the defendant's rants grew more vulgar. He clenched his cane tightly, trying to steady himself. The dragon scales on his skin began to shimmer faintly, a sign of the stress building within him.

"Enough!" Neuvillette roared suddenly, his voice reverberating through the room. He slammed his cane against the wooden floor, the sound sharp and commanding. The entire courtroom fell silent, the air heavy with the tension of his outburst.

"If you continue to interrupt me, I will have no choice but to adjourn this hearing and reschedule," Neuvillette warned, his voice steely. "I am exceedingly busy, and this behavior is unacceptable. Do you understand?"

The defendant, now visibly cowed, muttered a grudging "Yes, monsieur," his bravado gone in the face of Neuvillette's authoritative presence.

Neuvillette took a deep breath, trying to regain his composure. The hearing continued, though Neuvillette struggled to maintain his focus. The interruptions continued sporadically, each one adding to the mounting pressure on him. His dragon form was barely contained, his scales becoming more pronounced as the stress accumulated.