Chapter 24 Judge, Jury and Prosecutor

(Iris POV)

Iris was having an excellent day, albeit at the expense of Charlotte and Marion. First of all, she had managed to do her first interview with one of the candidates. And what an exceptional candidate it was. Anna was without doubt the most interesting person on the show. Well, after William, Nezoko, Hélène and now Dakota, Nola, Charlotte and Marion.

“While our defendants are talking to their lawyers. I must introduce the last judge who will determine with me the fate of this case. This is the hearing,” says Dakota, gesturing with her cane.

What can I say? Iris couldn't help feeling disappointed. Was this really the audience? Were they an intelligent plant people? Ent and dryads maybe? She really wanted to ask Dakota some questions, but the judge was honestly quite intimidating. Iris thought not knew that if she interrupted her she wouldn't get away with a simple punishment like Anna.

_“I know some of you are shocked by the appearance chosen to represent the audience. But what you need to understand is that in the immense chaos that is the diversity of the audience throughout the multiverse, this form was the best fit.” explained Dakota._

“I'm not even allowed to be the third judge,” Nezoko remarked.

“Be glad you weren't dismissed after screwing up so badly. But don't worry, I've made room for you during the trial. In fact, each of you will have a role to play. Iris, Nezoko, Karine, Nicole, Elisa and Hélène will be the jury,” says Dakota.

“How dare you put me on the same level as those baboons! How dare you, who is also just a...” Nezoko couldn't keep complaining as she soon found herself unable to breathe.

Dakota looked furious and pointed her cane at Nezoko. Iris thought to herself that Dakota really did look like Darth Vader, at least at the time of this scene.

“I forbid you to say another word. I have the power here, and that power includes doing what I want with you. Oppose me one more time and I swear it will be the last thing you do,” Dakota said, releasing the pressure she was putting on Nezoko, who breathed again.

A true Dark Lady. Iris could just imagine Dakota as a demon lord with a tragic history, falling into darkness and waiting for a white knight to rescue her. And ending up like Darth Vader repenting just before his ****. Oh, what a story that would make. Too bad she'll have to settle for this trial. Maybe she could ask Dakota for an interview afterwards?

_“We have the judges, the lawyers and the jury. I'd like to introduce you to the prosecutor. Don't worry, he's known for his mercy. This is Light Yagami,” _says Dakota.

_“Thank you for that warm introduction, Your Honor. I promise to carry out my duties impartially, fairly and honestly,” _said the young man who had just appeared.

“Thank you Light, I'm sure you'll do an excellent job. I know you're deeply attached to the notion of justice. And I see that the defense has finished discussing the case, so we can finally get started,” said Dakota as Marion and Charlotte re-entered the room.

Iris was surprised to see that, despite the circumstances, both Marion and Charlotte were smiling. They must have really trusted their lawyers. Yet Iris could have sworn that this was just a sham trial and that the verdict was already written.

_“Everyone take your places, we're about to begin the trial,” _said Dakota, before moving to sit in what was supposed to be the main judge's chair. With one movement, she transformed her cane into a small wooden hammer.

Once everyone was seated. Dakota took a solemn tone and banged her gavel on the table, saying “I declare this trial open.”