Chapter 254: The Dwarf's Plea

"Norbert, you probably have no idea why you are being called to testify, but it is better to have you with us to give clearance on matters of grave national interest, for the sake of your own kind and for the future of our relationship with the magical forest."

The Solicitor General of Juridical Science stood there with all confidence, wearing proudly the State Uniform prescribed for official use by the College of the Historicity of Science, while the hearing is currently on-going within the marvelous interiors of the Noble Chanceries, a court within the perfect system and duly integrated in the sciences of the Sovereign See that traces back its roots from the Government of the Literary Committee. He was glaring at the dwarf named Norbert, who seems more perflexed rather than actually threatened.

"I do understand the value of these proceedings, sir," Norbert simply said. He had always been looking forward to this moment when he decided to join the Literary forces in their quest to reclaim their own sovereign claims to the lands of this sacred See.

"Do you?" the Solicitor General simply said. "Then that is good news, indeed. I guess we will never have to spend the whole day in this honorable court. Are you willing to cooperate with the authorities in the quest for the scientific truth?"

"I do, Your Honor," Norbert said. He is more than ready to do this question and answer.

"Wonderful," the Solicitor General replied. "Let me remind you that the current proceedings is more on the Determination of Probable Cause, and that you are not yet an accused or involved in any way in the charge being alleged in these proceedings. Your rights can be invoked at any time you wish if you feel it is incriminating on your person. Otherwise, you are under oath to tell the court the whole truth and nothing but the truth. You do understand these rights, correct?"

"Yes."

"Good," the Solicitor General acknowledged the answer. "Now, the court wishes to know if you are aware of the on-going attacks being perpetuated by the Outcasts from the magical forests outside of your border and territory. Is that right?

"That is correct."

The Solicitor General nodded. "And do you wish to testify before this Noble Chanceries that these attacks were not coming from your end nor do you support any armed struggle from where you are currently situated within the Glorious Maps?"

"That is my testimony."

"And that within the parameters of the Summons given to you, you do testify to the accuracy of the facts given therein, but deny any involvement whatsoever in perpetuating those crimes. But you do testify that you are aware that such crimes exist and is currently happening?"

Norbert was intently listening. There is no point in lying at this point, but things can get really serious at any moment.

"Yes, this statement is true."

"You do testify that these attacks were happening, but not within your territory. Is that fair to say?"

"Our borders are protected and we have been very faithful to the Treaty we have entered into with the Scientific Council."

"Very well," the Solicitor General abruptly said, pausing for a moment. "Are you aware of any efforts to revive the co-occupation governments known as the De Facto Government for the Literary Committee? Do you deny any involvement in this movement as well?"

"I am not aware that such de facto government exist. But I cannot categorically state or deny that it actually exists."

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Chapter sponsored by Multiversus.