"Is this the Lady Ann of Coberly?"
Before the Bailiff could make the correct response, Ann gave her own impatient answer.
"I am Badge No. 7462883, Transistor Division, Coberly precision Products, Ltd."
The Chief Justice frowned at this breach of court etiquette.
"Have ye not been properly instructed?"
Ann shrugged, and the loose robe slipped lower on her shoulders.
"I suppose so, but is it necessary to waste all this time? You've got the record in front of you!"
The judges exchanged significant glances, and a delicious shudder swept through the stands. Jacques felt time running out on him. At best the chances of a reprieve for any prisoner were small, and in face of Ann's attitude....
The Chief Justice's expression congealed into judicial impassiveness.
"Ye are charged with taking the life of a man," he began solemnly.