(no subject)
***********************
. . . the truth sings against stone
by Kara B.
2001
***********************
An Earth: Final Conflict/The Practice Crossover Story
Rating: PG/PG-13
AUTHOR'S NOTE:
I know there are probably gross mistakes etc in legal procedure and all. I've done some research to try and make it semi-believable (prolly won't fly with any lawyers out there), but I am not a lawyer myself, so please forgive up front any and all mistakes.
EFC Spoilers: EFC in general, One Taelon Avenue, Limbo, and a few other mild spoilers
Practice Spoilers: The general premise of the show.
Disclaimer: You know the drill. The characters in this story DO NOT belong to me. They belong to Roddenberry/Alliance-Atlantis, Paramount, Pet Fly Productions or whoever owns them -- I’m just borrowing. I DO NOT make any money off this. I do this strictly for fun and personal enjoyment. I promise to return the characters (relatively) unharmed. For the record, I’m just a college student and have absolutely NO money at all so please don’t sue me.
***********************
. . . So most gentle
passenger
thread of honey and steel, who bound
my hands
in the resounding years,
you exist, not like a vine laced
in the tree, but as truth, your truth
I will pass, we will pass,
says the water,
and the truth sings against stone.
The course of the river spreads and
shifts.
Wild grass grows
on the banks,
I will pass, we will pass.
So says night to day,
month to year
Time
corrects the testimony
of winners and losers,
but the tree never rests in its growing.
The tree dies, another seedling comes
to life, and everything goes on.
from ”Delia Del Carril” by Pablo Neruda
***********************
Zo’or strutted onto the bridge, very apparently dissatisfied.
Sandoval cautiously queried, “Is something the matter Zo’or?”
“The humans are demanding that Joshua Doors be returned to Earth for a >human’ trial . . .” the disdain in his voice was evident, “And the Synod has unfortunately assented to the request. We have little choice in the matter, evidently. You will prosecute the case, Agent Sandoval. We must not lose.”
“I understand, Zo’or.”
“You will also immediately escort Mr. Doors to the attorney hired for him by Ms. Palmer. Also, the human courts have already granted him something called >bail’, though we have a guard on him to watch his movements.”
***********************
Sandoval entered Joshua’s cell on the mothership a few moments later. The man had only been there a few weeks but Sandoval had taken steps to ensure that they were not pleasant. The most obvious evidence of that was the harsh bruising on his face.
Joshua glanced up at him weakly, knowing what would come next . . . it would all start again B the vicious and painful cycle. Surprisingly, however, it didn’t. Finally, Joshua asked, “What, have the Taelons finally decided to kill me?”
“The government is pressing that you be given a public jury trial B to decide your fate. Zo’or has ordered me to escort you to your lawyers. I will be prosecuting the case.”
“Great.” Joshua muttered, still not moving.
“And I wouldn’t get your hopes up about being set free. You will be returning here, regardless of what happens. I will personally see to that.” Sandoval pulled Joshua up off the floor.
***********************
Ten minutes later, he was free of Sandoval and walking with his new guard into a Boston law firm. When he opened the door, he immediately noted that it looked more like a pig sty than a practice, but looks could be deceiving . . . and Renee had said these people were good. The guard stood outside the main door and Joshua stepped inside, watching the chaos with fascination.
He shut the door and instantly the noise stopped, all attention focused on him.
A man stepped forward offering his hand, “Bobby Donnell.”
Joshua took it, “Joshua Doors.”
“Your friend, Renee, told us about your case and we’ve already started the legwork for the trial . . .”
Joshua smiled, “I’ve actually heard of your firm B you have quite a reputation.”
“As do you . . youngest D.A. in New York, winner of the Ro’ha trial . . .” Bobby turned to the people gathered there and began introducing them all. “Over there at the computer is Ellenor. Next to her is Jimmy, Eugene, Rebecca, Lindsay, and Lucy.”
Joshua nodded, “Nice to meet you.”
“Come on, let’s go to the conference room and we’ll tell you what we’ve got so far. Ellenor, Jimmy, Lindsay B keep working. Rebecca, Eugene B join us.”
After the four had entered the conference room, Lucy commented, “He’s cute.”
Ellenor looked at her, “A little too old for you Lucy . . .”
“I’m 21!” she protested, “Besides, I was just saying my opinion . . . and I think he has a cute butt too . . .”
Lindsay and Ellenor both mock glared at her. “Lucy!”
“What? A girl can drool can’t she?”
***********************
Meanwhile, in the conference room, Bobby started, “The charges against you include murder 1. We want to go not guilty by reason of temporary insanity. Now, wait a second before you object . . . we’ve already studied the One Taelon Avenue incident. Lindsay interviewed someone the other day that said that it involved mind control?”
Joshua nodded wordlessly.
“And the computer program of your father was created using the very same technology. We think there is the possibility you were influenced by it. And the beauty of it is that no one else was ever in extensive contact with that program . . . We can get you out of this, completely free.”
Rebecca interrupted, “Excuse me, but what happened to your face?”
“Sandoval.” Joshua spat.
Eugene started, “Wait a second . . . he did that to you?”
“Why do you think the Taelons had me up there? They wanted me to suffer.”
“They tortured you?” asked Bobby carefully.
“Yes.”
“Eugene, drive him to the hospital now. Find out if there are any other documentable injuries . . . We can use that too. So, they create the technology that causes you to do this . . . give you the means . . . and then want to eliminate all the aspects of the event without questioning guilt or innocence.”
“What about the guard they have on me? If Sandoval finds out what we’re planning . . .”
“That’s right.” Bobby muttered, “Give me ten minutes and I’ll see if I can get that taken care of . . .”
***********************
“But it violates privilege . . . the prosecution can call upon the guard to testify about our actions and words, which might hurt my client’s defense.” Bobby argued.
“Your client has no defense, Mr. Donnell. Besides, Mr. Doors has resistance connections. If he has no guard, he’ll disappear.”
“Do you have proof of that Agent Sandoval?”
“I don’t need proof.”
“Give us custody. We’ll accept full responsibility.”
Sandoval interrupted again and they began arguing simultaneously.
“Quiet, both of you.” Judge Zoey Hiller snapped, “Mr. Sandoval, I am inclined to agree with Mr. Donnell.”
Sandoval started to object.
“Defense counsel’s motion for custody granted. Agent Sandoval, you and your men will stay away from them and their office. One hint of spying and I will personally throw our your case and hold you in contempt.”
Sandoval glared but nodded.
“Dismissed.”
Bobby hurried back to the office and announced, “No guard. Now, get him to the hospital.”
Eugene nodded, “Come on .”
***********************
Joshua gasped as he sat up, woken suddenly. Bobby and Lindsay had invited him to stay with them during the trial and Joshua had gratefully accepted. No need to drag anyone else into this mess . . .
Joshua glanced around the room, reassuring himself of his surroundings. Earlier in the evening he had crashed on the couch, only meaning to take a short nap. He hoped his violent nightmare had not woken up anyone else. He sighed and lay back again in the dark, hoping that the nightmare wouldn’t return . . . either in his sleep or in his life.
***********************
“Open arguments start tomorrow.” Bobby announced, starting the meeting.
“We’re ready, Bobby.” Ellenor said, “All the research is done, the witnesses are lined up and prepared. We’re ready.”
“Good.” Bobby turned to Joshua, seated near the end of the conference table, “Are you ready?”
Joshua nodded.
Bobby continued, “We’re hoping that the prosecution will just flat not make a case, but the likelihood is that you’ll have to testify.”
“Understood,” Joshua said.
“Tell me a little more about Sandoval’s style . . . you’re the only person to ever go up against him.”
Joshua thought a moment, “He’ll try and sway the jury with emotion. He’ll try and make me look like a murderous traitor and paint the Taelons as the good guys. He won’t attack directly, but he’ll try and manipulate or trick someone into contradicting their statements.”
***********************
The next day Joshua sat nervously next to Bobby and Eugene. They had reviewed his testimony once again the night before, picking apart everything. Figuring out what Sandoval might ask . . . finding anything in his answers that Sandoval might turn around.
Sandoval sat on the other side of the room, alone. Though Helen Gamble was the second chair for the prosecution, Sandoval had insisted on running things alone. He glared at Joshua, gaze designed to intimidate.
Bobby spoke, “I’m going to tell you what I tell all my clients. Look like a winner. I’m serious. Presentation is everything.”
***********************
“The prosecution calls Major Liam Kincaid to the stand.” Sandoval intoned. “Major Kincaid, when you arrived at the Doors International fusion plant what did you find?”
“Mr. Doors was there.”
“And what was he about to do?”
“Destroy the core energy.”
“Was there any program or anything of Jonathan Doors on?” Sandoval asked.
“Not that I saw.”
“Was Mr. Doors influenced by any external factor?”
“I couldn’t really say.” Liam answered.
“Could you see any external factor influencing his behavior?”
“No.”
“How did his tone sound?”
“Angry.”
“At the Taelons perhaps?” Sandoval asked. “No further questions your honor.” He strolled back to his seat, “Your witness.”
Bobby stood, “At One Taelon Avenue, did the effects of the mind control persist outside of the building?”
“Yes.” Liam answered.
“So the source of the control need not be present, correct?”
Liam nodded, “That’s correct.”
“So it’s possible that the program influenced him prior to going there and was still active.”
“It’s possible.” Liam agreed tentatively.
“No further questions, your honor.”
The Judge nodded, “The witness may step down. Mr. Sandoval, you may call your next witness.”
“The prosecution calls the Synod Leader, Zo’or to the stand.”
There was a sudden murmuring in the courtroom as Zo’or made his way to the front. Judge Hiller looked surprised, but nodded.
“Zo’or,” Sandoval began, “Please tell us about the last time you saw T’Than.”
“He was resting in our chamber for regeneration.”
“And he died during that cycle didn’t he?”
“Yes. Due to lack of core energy, because Mr. Doors blew it into the void.”
“And had Mr. Doors given any indication that he had thought about this prior to destroying it?”
“A week before, he had threatened to do just what he did.”
Next to Bobby, Joshua hissed, “That’s a lie! That’s not true!”
“Objection, your honor! This is unfair surprise. We were told nothing about this evidence.”
“Sidebar.” called Judge Hiller. Both Bobby and Sandoval stepped up to the bench.
“Did you notify the defense about this?”
“It was imperative that I not. Otherwise . . .”
“Agent Sandoval! You are required to give the defense full knowledge of what evidence you’re using. Now step back.” Judge Hiller turned to the jury, “The jury will disregard what you just heard about the threats. As far as you’re concerned that topic was never brought up. Often prosecutors will bring in unsubstantiated evidence to try and help their case. This is not permitted.”
Bobby sat back down next to Joshua and cursed under his breath, “Whatever the truth is, the jury did hear that.”
“It’s not true.” Joshua said. “I used to be a D.A. and that’s just blatantly wrong to introduce lies!”
Sandoval began questioning Zo’or again, “Do you have any reason to believe that Joshua Doors is a member of the resistance?”
“Aside from the fact that his father led it? Yes.”
“And resistance members have perpetrated acts of terrorism against Companions before?”
“Most definitely. And they should all receive punishment.”
“Your witness, Mr. Donnell.”
“You have evidence that my client is in the resistance?” Bobby asked the Taelon.
“Yes.”
“Please, share that with the court.”
“The Synod will not permit it. The information is sensitive.”
“They let you publicly condemn my client . . . at least provide some evidence, which you apparently don’t have.”
“Objection!” Sandoval said.
“Sustained.”
“Exactly when did T’Than die? According to the report it was only an hour after the core energy was destroyed. How could anyone who had recently attended a meeting on Earth lose energy so fast . . . even according to your own energy loss rates.”
“I do not understand why it happened, Mr. Donnell, but it did happen.”
“And I think the more important question. The Taelons had already discovered that cold fusion was impossibly. Why did you then knowingly lend core energy to Doors International, a corporation created by Jonathan Doors, resistance leader . . . or were you trying to frame Joshua Doors?”
About ten minutes later, a very ruffled and angry Synod leader stepped down from the witness chair.
“Mr. Donnell, the defense may call its first witness.” the judge announced.
“Your honor, the defense calls Agent Ronald Sandoval to the stand.” Bobby said triumphantly.
There was considerable murmuring at that.
“That’s ridiculous Mr. Donnell!” Sandoval snapped.
“Your honor, he was a witness, and I need to be allowed to examine all the evidence of this trial. And IF Mr. Sandoval had bothered to read the witness list, this would be no surprise.”
“And how exactly will I cross-examine?” Sandoval asked.
“Helen Gamble is the back-up D.A. on this. She can do the cross.”
Judge Hiller nodded, “Agreed. Mr. Sandoval, take the stand.”
Bobby remained composed as Sandoval was sworn in, but really wanted to tell the arrogant jerk off. “Mr. Sandoval, several days ago you told me that Joshua Doors is a constant irritant to the Taelon Synod. Would you please explain what you mean by that? Exactly what has he done to the Taelons, aside from destroying the core energy of course?”
Sandoval glared, “That information is classified.”
“Classified? How convenient.” Bobby turned to the judge, “Your honor . . .”
“You will answer the question.” Judge Hiller instructed.
“I will not.” Sandoval said.
“And why not, Agent Sandoval? Because you have no case? Because you know that Joshua Doors is not at fault in this . . . but you want to blame him so you can get him out of the way plus the fact that his father caused you problems.” Bobby quickly asked.
“Objection.” Helen said casually.
“Sustained.”
“Mr. Sandoval, were you instructed by the Taelons to win this trial at all costs? To use any legal and illegal means needed to win? And have you used illegal means?”
“Objection.” Helen said again.
“Sustained.” Judge Hiller said, “Since you refuse to answer, I’m holding you in contempt of court and we will adjourn until tomorrow morning. Also, since the defense got no examination of facts, the prosecution will get no cross.” She then hit the gavel on the desk as two bailiffs led an irate Sandoval to a cell.
***********************
“Mr. Donnell, you may call your next witness.”
“Your honor, the defense calls Renee Palmer to the stand.”
Renee sat down in the witness chair glancing at Joshua.
“Ms. Palmer, how long have you known my client?”
“We’ve been friends for years.”
“And you know what happened at One Taelon Avenue?”
“The technology inside the building took control of the minds of the occupants including Joshua’s.”
“And your own, correct?”
She nodded, “Yes.”
“And as a Doors International employee, do you know what technology was used for the program that influenced my client?”
“The very same technology as was used at One Taelon Avenue.”
“Are you certain of this Ms. Palmer?”
“Very. I had the chance to look at the program code. It’s nearly an exact match.”
“And, Ms. Palmer, did the Taelons appear to have any malice toward Mr. Doors?”
“Objection!” cried Sandoval.
“Overruled.”
“Yes. He questions the things they do and doesn’t accept them blindly.”
Bobby turned to look at the jurors, “Ms. Palmer, to your knowledge, does Joshua Doors have any resistance ties?”
“Not that I am aware of.”
“Thank you.”
Bobby sat down, and Sandoval began his questions, “You don’t know of any resistance ties of Mr. Doors?”
“I do not.”
“Are you in the resistance yourself Ms. Palmer?”
“Objection!” Bobby yelled.
“Sustained. Mr. Sandoval, please keep your questions relevant to this case.”
“You said that the technology was almost the same.”
“Yes.”
“Why would Jonathan Doors use that technology?”
“It wasn’t found to be controlling until after his death and no one knew about the program.” Renee responded.
Sandoval nodded, “And this technology was created by the Taelons.”
Renee glanced at him suspiciously, wondering what he was up to. “Yes.”
“And therefore Joshua blames the Taelons for his father’s death.”
“Objection . . . this witness cannot testify as to my client’s thoughts.” Bobby said.
“She testified that the Taelons had ill will toward Mr. Doors, I’m merely trying to show that the feeling went both ways . . .”
“Overruled.” Judge Hiller stated.
“Your honor,” Bobby started.
“Sit down counsel.”
Bobby started to object further but was silenced by her glare.
“Does Mr. Doors blame the Taelons for the death of his father?” Sandoval asked.
“No.” Renee said.
“Then who exactly does he blame?” Sandoval asked, tone now irritating.
“He blames himself.”
“Really?” Sandoval said, “Then perhaps he should be on trial for two counts of murder in the first degree.”
“Objection!”
“Sustained.” Judge Hiller said.
“Okay, he blames himself because he was under mind control by the Taelons? And given that, he has no anger whatsoever towards any Taelons?” Sandoval snorted with disbelief.
Renee remained silent.
“Allow me to present the court with some video footage from that night . . .”
[PUT OTA SCENE HERE]
“His father was the leader of the resistance -- a murderer and traitor, whom he loved. His father is now dead because of Taelon technology . . . and he has no motive to hate the Taelons, Ms. Palmer?”
***********************
“That didn’t go well.” Joshua said.
“I know, but if we hadn’t called her as our witness, they would have called her. And all in all, it would look better for us to present her.”
Joshua nodded, “Yeah, but still, this isn’t encouraging.”
Bobby entered the office, Joshua behind, “Conference in ten minutes.”
“That bad huh?” asked Ellenor.
“Bad enough.”
The door to the firm opened. “Joshua.”
Joshua turned around. “Hey, Renee.”
“It didn’t go too well did it?” she asked.
“No, actually it didn’t.” Bobby said, “But that’s not your fault. We probably shouldn’t have put you up there.” He turned to Joshua, “You’re testifying tomorrow.”
“Are you sure that’s wise Bobby?” Eugene asked.
“He’s the son of a resistance leader. How many people are going to believe that he has no connections? And if they think he has connections, they’ll convict him. That footage just gave them motive . . . plus the fact that he’d displayed violence before and been affected by technology before.”
“And they might just assume I’m the spoiled son of a billionaire . . . and that I’m weak-minded and I blame everyone else for my mistakes . . .” Joshua added.
Bobby nodded. “Unfortunately, that may be the case.”
***********************
The next day:
“Mr. Donnell?” questioned Judge Hiller.
“The defense calls Joshua Doors to the stand.”
After Joshua was sworn in, Bobby began his questions, “Mr. Doors, would you please tell the court what happened a year ago?”
“My father was killed at One Taelon Avenue.”
“And what caused it?”
“Objection B relevance!” Sandoval cried.
Bobby turned to the judge, “It is relevant to the case. I’m going somewhere with this, your honor.”
“Then hurry up and get there.” Judge Hiller said, “Overruled.”
“What caused your father’s death?”
“The building, or rather the artificial intelligence installed within it.”
“And who was the building built by?” Bobby asked.
“Objection!” Sandoval exclaimed forcefully.
Bobby turned, “I ask that the prosecution please remain silent and let me complete this line of questioning.”
“Agreed.” Judge Hiller glared at Sandoval.
“The Taelons built it.” Joshua said.
“And the building was responsible for several deaths as a result of human mind control?”
“Yes.”
“And you were a victim of this yourself?”
Joshua nodded, “Yes.”
“And this SAME technology was used by your father to create the program of himself that influenced you before you destroyed the core energy?”
“Yes.”
“Okay . . .” Bobby said, “So you did destroy the core energy?”
“I did.” Joshua affirmed.
“Because of the influence of the program?”
“Yes.”
“If the program never existed, do you think you would have destroyed the core energy?”
“Objection! Speculation, your honor, I move that the defense abandon this line of questioning!” Sandoval said.
“I’m going to allow it.”
“Would you have destroyed the core energy without the influence of the program?” Bobby repeated.
“No.”
“What gave you the idea for destroying the energy?”
“The program . . .”
“Created with technology used by the Taelons?”
“Yes.”
“So basically, they built the program that forced you to destroy their core energy?”
“That would be accurate.”
“Were you in complete control of your actions when you destroyed that energy?”
“No.”
“And, Mr. Doors, when you were taken to the mothership, you were tortured? Is that correct?”
“Yes.”
“Objection!” Sandoval rose to his feet, slapping the table.
“Every day, multiple times?” Bobby asked.
“Objection!”
“Yes.” Joshua responded. “They wanted me to suffer because they hated me and my father. As well as the fact that I knew too much.”
“You knew too much about the flaws of their technology, perhaps?” Bobby continued despite Sandoval’s objections.
“Sandoval told me as much.”
“. . . . irrelevant!” finished Sandoval.
Bobby turned to Judge Hiller, “Your honor, this is very relevant . . .”
She glared, “Sidebar! Now!”
Bobby and Sandoval stepped up to the bench,
“Your honor, this is totally irrelevant. Taelons have an entirely different justice system.”
“And yet you’re now operating in the human one. The Taelons were the reason this man did what he did . . . and now they want to kill and/or torture him and all they want now is to get rid of him. His innocence doesn’t matter to them. We have testimony about what they told him . . . that he in pain for their pleasure . . . nothing else. We have medical records showing what was done to him . . .”
“And none of that is relevant to what he did, counsel.” Sandoval said.
“Yes it is, because it establishes both why they loaned him the energy and why he destroyed it. They were setting him up . . . he was threatened by Agent Sandoval immediately following One Taelon Avenue. What better way to do this? I have to be allowed to argue it . . .”
Judge Hiller held up her hand, “I am extremely disgusted to find out that this went on. And Mr. Sandoval, given that there is evidence to suggest that he was in fact, influenced by the Taelons, the previous remarks will remain in the record, but,” she turned to Bobby, “Counsel, you’re on a short leash here. No playing with the emotions of the jurors B just the facts.”
Bobby nodded.
Judge Hiller announced, “I’m declaring a recess until tomorrow morning.” Pounding her gavel, she ended the trial for the day.
***********************
Bobby, Joshua, Eugene and Rebecca hurried back to the office.
“That was perfect!” Bobby said. “Great job. And pretty much the only way he could get you would be to cause you to contradict yourself.”
Joshua nodded, “I know, I was a D.A. once and that’s going to be his strategy.”
“Tomorrow, I’ll finish my questions and then let him cross his heart out . . .” Bobby said.
“Thank you. That was very good lawyering . . .”
Bobby opened the door to the office, just as Lindsay was opening it from the other side . . . “Bobby! We’ve found something you might want to see . . .”
Without warning, a gunshot sounded, hitting Lindsay square in the chest. Bobby grabbed her as she fell and everyone else hit the floor.
“Lindsay!” Bobby screamed, horrified. “Oh God!”
From inside the office, Ellenor and Jimmy quickly helped everyone into the room and shut the door. Lucy was already calling the paramedics and the police . . .
“Bobby, I love you . . .”
Bobby brushed the side of Lindsay’s face, “Hang on, Lindsay, please . . . I love you.” A tear ran down his face.
The door suddenly swung open, causing everyone to jump . . . but it was only the paramedics . . . they quickly and professionally began working on her . . . and put her on the stretcher. Bobby was by her side the entire way . . .
One of Bobby’s friends in the police department entered moments later, “We caught the guy . . . an ex-Taelon employee. He quit yesterday and claims to be working alone . . .”
“But you think this was on purpose?” Joshua asked.
“In the middle of this world-watched trial? If they were really dissatisfied why try and kill any of you?”
Ellenor shook her head, “My God.”
“Before you leave, I want to get statements from all of you.” Mike said. “I’ll tell you what, I’ll ride down to the hospital with you and take them there . . .”
Ellenor, Jimmy, Rebecca, Lucy and Eugene all nodded and followed. Joshua was right behind them.
Eugene turned around, “You don’t have to come . . .”
“I want to . . .” said Joshua.
“Okay, come on . . .” Ellenor said.
***********************
At the hospital, the group found Bobby pacing the waiting room, nearly crazy with worry.
Mike spoke first, “Bobby, I’m really sorry . . .”
“Did you catch the guy?” he asked furiously continuing his pacing.
“Yes.”
Bobby’s pacing stopped abruptly. “Why?”
“It was a Taelon employee, quit their job yesterday.” Mike said.
“It’s because of this case . . . they shot my wife . . .”
For the next hour, Bobby paced and everyone else watched . . . Everyone knew that there was nothing they could say. The silent wait was interrupted only when another woman entered the room, stopping to talk to Bobby and hug him, murmuring something quietly. She then came to sit down between Joshua and Ellenor.
“Hey Helen,” Ellenor said quietly.
“Hey,” she said.
“This is our client, Joshua Doors.”
Joshua nodded at her, “Hi.”
Helen nodded at him in acknowledgment but said nothing, as they resumed their silence . . .
Joshua soon found himself drifting off to sleep . . . and he let it happen. There was no telling when he might sleep safe again. Their waiting room was surrounded by police . . .
Suddenly, he felt someone shaking his arm gently, and he started awake.
“I think you were having a bad dream,” Helen said in a low tone. “Are you okay?”
Joshua stood, uncomfortable, “Yeah. I think I’m going to get some coffee.”
“I’ll join you.” Rebecca said.
Outside in the hall, Joshua harshly punched the elevator button.
“What’s wrong?”
“Nothing. I’m fine.”
“Uh huh,” Rebecca said, “Bad dream? Bobby and Lindsay have both told me about your nightmares. But I don’t think you need to worry. Bobby’s winning the case.”
“Yeah, well, Sandoval told me that no matter what, I’d be returning to the mothership. That everything happening in court is just a formality for the people. And he can do it too.” They stepped inside the elevator.
“He threatened you? Have you told Bobby?”
“What could Bobby do with that? What can anyone do?”
“You might be surprised. Criminal defense lawyers are obligated to do whatever they legally can to get the client off. I know you used to be a D.A. but we’re not as bound to rules as you were. What if Sandoval buys off the jury?”
“That’s illegal.” Rebecca snorted.
“I don’t think you have any idea of what kind of power Sandoval has . . .”
“I know enough to know that he’s probably behind this. And I know Bobby well enough to know that he suspects too. And that he’ll do anything he legally can to make sure that Sandoval loses this case.”
“I don’t think it’ll be enough.” Joshua said as the elevator suddenly shook and stopped. “Perfect. Goes right along with my week . . .” Joshua punched the door.
Rebecca sat down calmly, “They’ll have it fixed shortly.”
“After spending a few weeks on the mothership . . . I don’t really care much for confined spaces.” he said lightly.
“Understandable.” Rebecca paused, “Sit down. The more you think about being in a small elevator, the more nervous you’ll get.”
Joshua nodded and sat down.
“You wanna talk about it?”
He looked up, “What?”
“Whatever happened to you.”
“Not really.” Joshua said. A long silence followed, which Joshua broke, “I’m sorry about Lindsay. It’s partly my fault . . .”
“No, it’s not.” Rebecca said, “And don’t worry about the trial, Bobby’s dug himself deeper than this before.”
Joshua looked at her questioningly.
“He nearly got convicted of murder 1 himself. The prosecutors were going after him, worse than this.”
“Why do you do it? You know that pretty much all your clients are guilty. Why be a defense lawyer?”
“Bobby will tell you, and I agree, the reason that we do this is for that occasional innocent person. We’ve been around enough guilty people that we can usually tell. We don’t do this to get guilty people off . . . we do it to save innocent people, like you.”
“Thank you.”
“No problem.” Rebecca said.
“What happens if I do get convicted though?”
“Bobby will appeal it. He’ll go as far as he can with it. He cares about his cases, especially ones he believes are innocent.”
Suddenly the elevator jolted, and rose, opening up at the exact level they’d come from. Joshua stepped out of the elevator, “I’m not doing that again.”
Bobby came around the corner, followed by Eugene and Ellenor, “Come on, we have to get ready for trial tomorrow. Rebecca, will you stay here with Lindsay?”
“Bobby, don’t you think you should slow down a little?”
“I can’t Rebecca, or I might just go after Agent Sandoval.”
“What did the doctors say?” Joshua asked.
“They don’t know.” His face was intense, his mind concentrating on the trial B and only the trial, anything to keep busy . . .
***********************
Bobby stood from his chair, “Mr. Doors, how close were you to your father?” His tone was slightly sharper than normal. But it was the only sign of his worry over Lindsay.
“We weren’t. Before his run for president, we had not spoke in nearly three years.”
“Three years? Any reason?”
Joshua looked uncomfortable, “I wasn’t sure he really cared about me.”
“So the relationship wasn’t very good?”
“No.”
“And before his announcement of the resistance, were you aware of what he was planning?”
“No.”
“Mr. Doors, you have to know how this looks . . . the son of a rich, dead resistance leader . . . . did you plan to murder the Taelon race? And were you in complete control of your actions when you destroyed the core energy?”
“No to both. I loved my father, but we never agreed on anything.”
“No further questions, your honor,” Bobby said, sitting back down.
“Very well. I’m adjourning until 10 AM tomorrow morning. We’ll reconvene then. Dismissed.”
Sandoval caught Bobby as he left the courtroom, “Could we talk a minute?”
Bobby said “Okay,” then turned, “Eugene, I’ll meet you guys back at the office.”
“Okay,” Eugene said, nodding his head and nearly dragging Joshua out of the hallway, as it was packed with the media . . .
Sandoval and Bobby strolled down the street to a corner coffee shop and after getting their coffee, sat down.
“I assume you have a plea offer, otherwise we wouldn’t be here.”
“One year on the mothership. After that, he can go free. That’s a lot better than the jury will give you for any murder charge.”
“And what will happen to my client aboard the mothership?”
“That’s of concern to no one.” Sandoval said.
“Except my client, and consequently me as well. And who will monitor his treatment? And that he gets freed and that you don’t decide to get rid of him before the year is done?”
Sandoval glared, “It’s the best offer you’ll get Mr. Donnell, and the only one.”
“The offer is rejected.”
“You have to take it to your client.” Sandoval reminded him, “Tell Joshua that he has until tomorrow morning when the trial starts to decide. After that, the offer is no longer on the table.”
“I’ll take it to my client, but don’t get too excited that his response would be any different than mine.” Bobby turned to go.
“It’s in his best interests, Mr. Donnell, and I’d daresay yours as well.” Sandoval paused, then added, “I’m sorry about your wife . . .”
***********************
“You think I should take this?” Joshua exclaimed in disbelief.
“No, I don’t.” Bobby calmly explained, “But as you know, it appears to be in your best interests, and by law I’m required to get your response on this before rejecting it.”
“Well, you can tell Sandoval to go stick this . . .”
Jimmy interrupted, “Okay, this could be a good sign. It means he’s worried. But on the other hand, it’s only a year.”
“I was only up there a few weeks before . . . and look what they did to me . . . In a year, they would make sure that I died >accidently’.”
Bobby said, “All right. I’m going to call Sandoval and tell him where he can put his offer, though I don’t think I’ll phrase it as colorfully . . .”
Lucy knocked on the conference door, “Agent Sandoval is here.” she whispered.
“Show him in.” Bobby said.
Moments later, Sandoval appeared at the door of the conference room, two Volunteers in tow. Joshua stiffened when he saw them.
“My client has rejected your offer.”
Sandoval nodded, “That’s actually not my purpose here. I’m afraid that I’m going to have to ask all of you to leave the office. It will be shut down for the next week.”
“Are you joking?” Eugene asked.
“Apparently the Bar got word of some of your antics and agree that there might be evidence of malpractice in several of your cases. They intend to investigate.”
Bobby nodded, “Fine. Eugene, Rebecca, Ellenor, get all the current cases packed up. We’ll be out of your way in ten minutes.”
“I’m afraid I can’t allow you to remove anything.”
“Well I’m afraid we have to . . . otherwise we’ll be guilty of malpractice. And if you don’t let me get my current cases, I will report YOU to the bar.”
“I don’t think so Mr. Donnell.”
Bobby turned to Lucy, “Call Mike now. And get Judge Hiller in here right NOW.”
She turned and quickly began making the calls. Within ten minutes, Mike, their friend in the police, and Judge Hiller both arrived.
“What’s going on Bobby?” Mike asked. Judge Hiller raised an eyebrow, asking the same question.
“Agent Sandoval here is attempting to keep us from defending our clients. He claims that the FBI and the Bar have evidence of malpractice in my firm and that he needs to go through our files.”
“That is unacceptable.” Judge Hiller said.
Sandoval glared, “It is necessary, especially with their firm on this case. You can’t keep me from shutting down their firm.”
“No, I can’t.” admitted Judge Hiller, “But neither you nor anyone else will be looking through their case files while opposing them in a case. Mr. Donnell, gather whatever files you need and clear out. Mike, place a guard on this and see that NO ONE enters without my permission. And Mr. Sandoval, please just clear out.”
Sandoval glared and stalked out. Everyone else moved to grab some of the essential files.
“We’ll move everything to my place.” Bobby said, then turned to ask Judge Hiller, “Can he really do that?”
“With his power? Yes, unfortunately he can. I don’t like the smell of this Bobby.”
“Neither do I.”
One hour later everyone was gathered at Bobby and Lindsay’s home.
“I can’t believe that!” fumed Bobby, “How far would he go to win?”
“As far as he needs to . . .” Joshua said.
“Is he responsible for what happened to Lindsay?”
Joshua hesitated, but finally admitted, “Most likely, but you’ll never be able to prove it.”
“What if I recalled him to the witness chair . . . and asked him?”
“He’d deny it.” Joshua said, “And you don’t have proof that it’s otherwise.”
“Then how about I call him to the witness chair, tie him . . .”
A knock at the door interrupted the conversation. Bobby swung it open in frustration, stopping cold when he saw the person behind it, “Mike. What’s wrong?”
“Bobby, we have some bad news.”
“What?” his voice had grown infinitely tense. “Mike, what?”
“Lindsay’s missing.”
“What?!!!” exclaimed everyone in the room.
“We don’t know what happened, but they left this.” he held out a note to Bobby. “We haven’t looked at it yet, it said specifically for your eyes only.”
Bobby jerked the paper from Mike’s hand and nearly ripped it pulling it open. “Some supporter of the Taelons says he has her. He says that the only way I’ll get her back is for our firm to drop this case.” Bobby cursed and began pacing.
“We’re going to do everything I can. Judge Hiller is delaying the trial another week.”
“Mike, I think Sandoval is behind this. I think he threatened Lindsay earlier.”
“What exactly did he say?”
“We were talking about a plea deal that we rejected. He said >It’s in his best interests, Mr. Donnell, and I’d daresay yours as well.’. Then he added, >I’m sorry about your wife . . .’.”
“Bobby, that’s not enough, especially for someone of his renown.” Mike said.
“Then find my wife before I kill him.”
Suddenly, Bobby’s cell phone rang.
“Mr. Donnell.”
“What do you want Sandoval?”
“I heard that your wife was missing . . . some of my Volunteers found her just a moment ago while doing a routine check of the area. I’ve already had her taken back to the hospital . . . but I think she’s okay.”
“What game are you playing Sandoval? You and I both know that you’re responsible for this . . .”
“I don’t have any idea what you’re talking about, Mr. Donnell.” The line clicked off.
Bobby relayed the conversation to the room, “Mike, do a background check on him . . . see if you can find anything . . .” Bobby trailed off. “Investigate.”
“We’ll try Bobby. But investigating an FBI agent is a very hard thing to do . . . especially when they work for the companions. I’ll also call in a few more guards for your wife. And I’m assigning a few deputies to you and Mr. Doors.”
***********************
The trial had resumed a few mornings later.
“Mr. Doors,” Sandoval strolled slowly across the court room toward the witness chair, “You did destroy the core energy correct?”
“Yes.” Joshua said, nearly biting his tongue to keep from snapping at the agent. Bobby had warned him against any sarcasm at all.
“And how do you feel about the Taelons?”
“I don’t agree with all their methods and policies.”
“So, it’s safe to say that you don’t like them?”
“I don’t care much for them, no.” Joshua responded calmly.
“Okay. Forgive me for not taking Ms. Palmer’s word on things, but are you a member of the resistance?”
“No, I’m not.”
“You do realize that you’re under oath, Mr. Doors.” Sandoval stated nastily.
“Objection! Asked and answered.” Bobby said, “No evidence has been presented that my client has any involvement in or connections to the resistance.”
“Sustained.”
“Mr. Doors,” continued Sandoval, “Were you upset when your father died while saving your life?”
“Of course I was.” Joshua said.
“And as Ms. Palmer stated, you blamed yourself?”
“Yes.” Joshua glanced at Bobby who nodded at him.
“Did you want the Taelons dead? Did you feel an obligation to your father, perhaps, to do so?”
Joshua responded, “I never wanted all the Taelons dead. But I wanted whichever ones that were ultimately responsible for my father’s death brought to justice.”
“And so, you took that into your own hands?” Sandoval asked.
“Objection!”
“Sustained.”
“No further questions, your honor,” Sandoval said.
Judge Hiller nodded, “Redirect, Mr. Donnell?”
“No, your honor, the defense rests.”
“You may step down.” Judge Hiller said to Joshua.
***********************
“All that’s left is the closing.”
“What are our chances?” Joshua asked.
“They haven’t made their burden, so I’d say pretty good.”
“But . . .” Joshua prompted.
“Sandoval is a powerful figure. No one wants to be his enemy. And besides, your father was the founder of the resistance that has caused so many problems.” Bobby said.
“But I’m NOT him!” Joshua declared emphatically.
“That doesn’t matter.”
***********************
“His father didn’t like the Taelons, neither does he. His father started and ran the Resistance and as you heard Zo’or testify, we have evidence that Joshua Doors is at least involved in it. His father sponsored projects and violent acts designed to destroy or discredit the Taelons . . . why should he be any different? He destroyed the core energy . . . no one disputes that fact. He destroyed it and has killed a Taelon as a result. More deaths are sure to follow . . . Shouldn’t he pay for that? Or will this jury bend to the hero worship of Jonathan Doors and his son . . .?” Sandoval’s closing was short and to the point. He returned and sat down.
Bobby stood, “Joshua Doors wasn’t in control of his actions when he destroyed the core energy. Yes, his father ran a resistance movement, but they weren’t even close . . . they disagreed so greatly on many issues. Joshua Doors never supported his father’s movement. But the Taelons USED him as a tool to get to his father. And now they want to use him as a tool of revenge . . . to punish him for his father’s crimes. As for disagreeing with Taelon policies . . . I think every one of us disagrees with something they did . . . that’s not a crime. In fact, it’s healthy for our country . . . when we stop questioning and investigating is when we need to be concerned. The Taelons used this man. They used him at the research facility called One Taelon Avenue. They brainwashed him . . . they used him as bait to lure his father there so that the building could kill him. Then, the same technology was unknowingly by Jonathan Doors, used to build a program of himself . . . that brainwashed this man yet again.
Can you imagine what it must be like? Having your humanity violated . . . your free will taken away . . . and then being tortured and held responsible for actions that you couldn’t even control. You saw him hold a gun on his own father under mind control . . . can you imagine what that must be like? Powerless to even stop yourself? Can you imagine?” Bobby stopped and silently turned and sat down.
“Now we wait.” Bobby whispered to Joshua as Judge Hiller instructed the jury.
***********************
“Madam foreperson of the jury, have you reached a verdict?”
The woman stood, “We have your honor.”
“What say you?”
“Taelon Synod versus Joshua Doors on the charge of murder in the first degree, we find the defendant, Joshua Doors . . . guilty.”
Joshua heard the collective gasp of his lawyers, along with his own. How could the jury do this? Unless influenced by something else . . . He glanced over at Sandoval and read it in his eyes . . . Sandoval HAD done something.
“Your honor, we move for a judgement not withstanding the jury verdict.” Bobby said, standing.
“Mr. Donnell, Mr. Sandoval. Chambers. Now.” barked Judge Hiller.
Bobby turned back to Joshua, “I’m going to see what I can do.”
***********************
Once inside Judge Hiller’s chambers, Bobby turned to Sandoval, “What did you do B threaten the jury?”
“The jury found Mr. Doors guilty.” He turned to Judge Hiller, “We will be asking that he be returned to the Taelon Synod.”
“What? So you can torture him more?”
“How the Taelons choose to dispense justice is none of your concern, Mr. Donnell.”
“He’s my client! It definitely IS my concern.”
“Quiet!” Judge Hiller snapped, “I do hate to overturn any verdict given by a jury, but this time I will think about it, because there are compelling circumstances. You’ll have my ruling by the morning.”
“What about my client?”
“Until then, he will be taken into custody.”
“But . . .”
“I’ve made my decision on that counsel. It is non-negotiable. Dismissed.”
Sandoval huffed out immediately while Bobby lagged behind.
Judge Hiller looked up at him from her paperwork a moment later, “What is it Bobby?”
“You know that verdict is unfair. Something’s not right.”
“I said that I’d take it under advisement.”
Bobby frowned, “If it stands, you know what will happen to him. You saw the medical records . . .”
“Bobby, I’ll think about it. But this system was designed to give you a trial by your peers.”
“A fair trial. This trial wasn’t fair. And look I know I shouldn’t say this because I can’t substantiate it, but the prosecutor threatened my client by telling him that no matter what B he’d end up back in a Taelon cell. And the man has had an opportunity to run. And he has the resources. But he’s trusting that the process will work here. He should have nothing to fear.”
“Counsel, you are dismissed. You’ll have my judgement in the morning.”
Bobby sighed, nodded, and left.
When he reentered the court room, he saw them already handcuffing Joshua. He hurried over, “Excuse me, I need to speak with him a moment,”
The guard nodded and backed off a few steps.
Bobby hissed, “You know the drill. Don’t talk to anyone about anything. I know you know that, but I have to say it anyway. No one -- not even friends. I’ll be by shortly and we’ll go over our options, just in case the judgement is against you.”
Joshua nodded wordlessly.
***********************
Bobby arrived at the jail an hour later to find a very frustrated and upset Joshua Doors pacing his cell. “How could they do that? They know what will happen to me . . .” Joshua shivered.
“I think Judge Hiller will rule in your favor. There’s a very good chance.”
“And you thought we’d win the trial.”
“Yes, but evidently someone screwed with the system. The only problem is that we can’t prove it!” the frustration was evident in his voice. “Whatever happens, we do have basis for an appeal. And I know Judge Hiller. If sentencing occurs, she won’t give you back to the Taelons.”
Joshua took a deep breath, “So what next?”
“We see what Judge Hiller rules . . .”
“What if . . . Bobby, if the conviction stands . . . couldn’t they go for the death penalty?”
“I don’t think that will happen. They’re pushing to get you back on the mothership anyway . . . but Hiller won’t allow a death penalty here. The evidence is circumstantial only.”
“Circumstantial is enough to convict.” Joshua reminded him.
“Enough to convict for murder B yes. Enough for jail time B yes. Enough for the death penalty B no.” Bobby stood, beginning to pace frustratedly.
“Bobby, the Taelons will push for the death penalty if they can’t get me. And you know they can manipulate Thompson into putting pressure to give it. And Thompson and I aren’t on the greatest terms. When I left his cabinet, well, I basically told him off.”
“Great . . .” he paused, “Judge Hiller won’t be swayed by politics. She’s fair.”
“This isn’t just regular politics, Bobby.”
Bobby sighed, “I know . . .” he cursed.
Joshua buried his head in his hands, “I can’t believe this is happening. How could this happen?”
“I don’t know.” Bobby hesitated, “My gut tells me that something’s rotten. The problem is that I can’t find any proof.”
“How are we going to . . .”
“We’ll find a way. We’re as ready as we can be until the decision comes out.”
Joshua looked up, “Bobby?”
“What?”
“How’s Lindsay doing?”
Bobby stopped his pacing and turned to face Joshua. Joshua could see the tension and fear in his face. “She’s in critical condition. She hasn’t woken up yet. They . . . they don’t know.”
“And we’re ready for trial?” Joshua asked.
Bobby nodded.
“Go see her. Send Eugene here. If we’re ready, then there’s no reason you have to stay.”
Bobby nodded again, “I’ll swing by tomorrow morning before the trial.”
***********************
“Will the defendant please rise?” Judge Hiller asked.
Joshua and Bobby both stood.
“I have considered this case overnight. And as you are aware, circumstantial evidence is enough to convict. However, I do not feel that there is enough evidence, circumstantial or otherwise to warrant the death penalty or even life in prison. Therefore, while I will not overturn the verdict entirely, in the interest of fairness, I will reduce the charge to murder in the second degree and I sentence the defendant to 25 years . . . case dismissed.”
Joshua nearly collapsed in shock.
Bobby placed a hand on his shoulder, “We’ll appeal it. We’ll find a way.”
Sandoval approached and said simply, “One year on the mothership . . . I’m sure we could work something out . . .”
Joshua glared, “No.”
The bailiff approached, cuffing Joshua’s hands behind his back.
Bobby turned to him, “Trust me on this one.”
***********************
. . . the truth sings against stone
by Kara B.
2001
***********************
An Earth: Final Conflict/The Practice Crossover Story
Rating: PG/PG-13
AUTHOR'S NOTE:
I know there are probably gross mistakes etc in legal procedure and all. I've done some research to try and make it semi-believable (prolly won't fly with any lawyers out there), but I am not a lawyer myself, so please forgive up front any and all mistakes.
EFC Spoilers: EFC in general, One Taelon Avenue, Limbo, and a few other mild spoilers
Practice Spoilers: The general premise of the show.
Disclaimer: You know the drill. The characters in this story DO NOT belong to me. They belong to Roddenberry/Alliance-Atlantis, Paramount, Pet Fly Productions or whoever owns them -- I’m just borrowing. I DO NOT make any money off this. I do this strictly for fun and personal enjoyment. I promise to return the characters (relatively) unharmed. For the record, I’m just a college student and have absolutely NO money at all so please don’t sue me.
***********************
. . . So most gentle
passenger
thread of honey and steel, who bound
my hands
in the resounding years,
you exist, not like a vine laced
in the tree, but as truth, your truth
I will pass, we will pass,
says the water,
and the truth sings against stone.
The course of the river spreads and
shifts.
Wild grass grows
on the banks,
I will pass, we will pass.
So says night to day,
month to year
Time
corrects the testimony
of winners and losers,
but the tree never rests in its growing.
The tree dies, another seedling comes
to life, and everything goes on.
from ”Delia Del Carril” by Pablo Neruda
***********************
Zo’or strutted onto the bridge, very apparently dissatisfied.
Sandoval cautiously queried, “Is something the matter Zo’or?”
“The humans are demanding that Joshua Doors be returned to Earth for a >human’ trial . . .” the disdain in his voice was evident, “And the Synod has unfortunately assented to the request. We have little choice in the matter, evidently. You will prosecute the case, Agent Sandoval. We must not lose.”
“I understand, Zo’or.”
“You will also immediately escort Mr. Doors to the attorney hired for him by Ms. Palmer. Also, the human courts have already granted him something called >bail’, though we have a guard on him to watch his movements.”
***********************
Sandoval entered Joshua’s cell on the mothership a few moments later. The man had only been there a few weeks but Sandoval had taken steps to ensure that they were not pleasant. The most obvious evidence of that was the harsh bruising on his face.
Joshua glanced up at him weakly, knowing what would come next . . . it would all start again B the vicious and painful cycle. Surprisingly, however, it didn’t. Finally, Joshua asked, “What, have the Taelons finally decided to kill me?”
“The government is pressing that you be given a public jury trial B to decide your fate. Zo’or has ordered me to escort you to your lawyers. I will be prosecuting the case.”
“Great.” Joshua muttered, still not moving.
“And I wouldn’t get your hopes up about being set free. You will be returning here, regardless of what happens. I will personally see to that.” Sandoval pulled Joshua up off the floor.
***********************
Ten minutes later, he was free of Sandoval and walking with his new guard into a Boston law firm. When he opened the door, he immediately noted that it looked more like a pig sty than a practice, but looks could be deceiving . . . and Renee had said these people were good. The guard stood outside the main door and Joshua stepped inside, watching the chaos with fascination.
He shut the door and instantly the noise stopped, all attention focused on him.
A man stepped forward offering his hand, “Bobby Donnell.”
Joshua took it, “Joshua Doors.”
“Your friend, Renee, told us about your case and we’ve already started the legwork for the trial . . .”
Joshua smiled, “I’ve actually heard of your firm B you have quite a reputation.”
“As do you . . youngest D.A. in New York, winner of the Ro’ha trial . . .” Bobby turned to the people gathered there and began introducing them all. “Over there at the computer is Ellenor. Next to her is Jimmy, Eugene, Rebecca, Lindsay, and Lucy.”
Joshua nodded, “Nice to meet you.”
“Come on, let’s go to the conference room and we’ll tell you what we’ve got so far. Ellenor, Jimmy, Lindsay B keep working. Rebecca, Eugene B join us.”
After the four had entered the conference room, Lucy commented, “He’s cute.”
Ellenor looked at her, “A little too old for you Lucy . . .”
“I’m 21!” she protested, “Besides, I was just saying my opinion . . . and I think he has a cute butt too . . .”
Lindsay and Ellenor both mock glared at her. “Lucy!”
“What? A girl can drool can’t she?”
***********************
Meanwhile, in the conference room, Bobby started, “The charges against you include murder 1. We want to go not guilty by reason of temporary insanity. Now, wait a second before you object . . . we’ve already studied the One Taelon Avenue incident. Lindsay interviewed someone the other day that said that it involved mind control?”
Joshua nodded wordlessly.
“And the computer program of your father was created using the very same technology. We think there is the possibility you were influenced by it. And the beauty of it is that no one else was ever in extensive contact with that program . . . We can get you out of this, completely free.”
Rebecca interrupted, “Excuse me, but what happened to your face?”
“Sandoval.” Joshua spat.
Eugene started, “Wait a second . . . he did that to you?”
“Why do you think the Taelons had me up there? They wanted me to suffer.”
“They tortured you?” asked Bobby carefully.
“Yes.”
“Eugene, drive him to the hospital now. Find out if there are any other documentable injuries . . . We can use that too. So, they create the technology that causes you to do this . . . give you the means . . . and then want to eliminate all the aspects of the event without questioning guilt or innocence.”
“What about the guard they have on me? If Sandoval finds out what we’re planning . . .”
“That’s right.” Bobby muttered, “Give me ten minutes and I’ll see if I can get that taken care of . . .”
***********************
“But it violates privilege . . . the prosecution can call upon the guard to testify about our actions and words, which might hurt my client’s defense.” Bobby argued.
“Your client has no defense, Mr. Donnell. Besides, Mr. Doors has resistance connections. If he has no guard, he’ll disappear.”
“Do you have proof of that Agent Sandoval?”
“I don’t need proof.”
“Give us custody. We’ll accept full responsibility.”
Sandoval interrupted again and they began arguing simultaneously.
“Quiet, both of you.” Judge Zoey Hiller snapped, “Mr. Sandoval, I am inclined to agree with Mr. Donnell.”
Sandoval started to object.
“Defense counsel’s motion for custody granted. Agent Sandoval, you and your men will stay away from them and their office. One hint of spying and I will personally throw our your case and hold you in contempt.”
Sandoval glared but nodded.
“Dismissed.”
Bobby hurried back to the office and announced, “No guard. Now, get him to the hospital.”
Eugene nodded, “Come on .”
***********************
Joshua gasped as he sat up, woken suddenly. Bobby and Lindsay had invited him to stay with them during the trial and Joshua had gratefully accepted. No need to drag anyone else into this mess . . .
Joshua glanced around the room, reassuring himself of his surroundings. Earlier in the evening he had crashed on the couch, only meaning to take a short nap. He hoped his violent nightmare had not woken up anyone else. He sighed and lay back again in the dark, hoping that the nightmare wouldn’t return . . . either in his sleep or in his life.
***********************
“Open arguments start tomorrow.” Bobby announced, starting the meeting.
“We’re ready, Bobby.” Ellenor said, “All the research is done, the witnesses are lined up and prepared. We’re ready.”
“Good.” Bobby turned to Joshua, seated near the end of the conference table, “Are you ready?”
Joshua nodded.
Bobby continued, “We’re hoping that the prosecution will just flat not make a case, but the likelihood is that you’ll have to testify.”
“Understood,” Joshua said.
“Tell me a little more about Sandoval’s style . . . you’re the only person to ever go up against him.”
Joshua thought a moment, “He’ll try and sway the jury with emotion. He’ll try and make me look like a murderous traitor and paint the Taelons as the good guys. He won’t attack directly, but he’ll try and manipulate or trick someone into contradicting their statements.”
***********************
The next day Joshua sat nervously next to Bobby and Eugene. They had reviewed his testimony once again the night before, picking apart everything. Figuring out what Sandoval might ask . . . finding anything in his answers that Sandoval might turn around.
Sandoval sat on the other side of the room, alone. Though Helen Gamble was the second chair for the prosecution, Sandoval had insisted on running things alone. He glared at Joshua, gaze designed to intimidate.
Bobby spoke, “I’m going to tell you what I tell all my clients. Look like a winner. I’m serious. Presentation is everything.”
***********************
“The prosecution calls Major Liam Kincaid to the stand.” Sandoval intoned. “Major Kincaid, when you arrived at the Doors International fusion plant what did you find?”
“Mr. Doors was there.”
“And what was he about to do?”
“Destroy the core energy.”
“Was there any program or anything of Jonathan Doors on?” Sandoval asked.
“Not that I saw.”
“Was Mr. Doors influenced by any external factor?”
“I couldn’t really say.” Liam answered.
“Could you see any external factor influencing his behavior?”
“No.”
“How did his tone sound?”
“Angry.”
“At the Taelons perhaps?” Sandoval asked. “No further questions your honor.” He strolled back to his seat, “Your witness.”
Bobby stood, “At One Taelon Avenue, did the effects of the mind control persist outside of the building?”
“Yes.” Liam answered.
“So the source of the control need not be present, correct?”
Liam nodded, “That’s correct.”
“So it’s possible that the program influenced him prior to going there and was still active.”
“It’s possible.” Liam agreed tentatively.
“No further questions, your honor.”
The Judge nodded, “The witness may step down. Mr. Sandoval, you may call your next witness.”
“The prosecution calls the Synod Leader, Zo’or to the stand.”
There was a sudden murmuring in the courtroom as Zo’or made his way to the front. Judge Hiller looked surprised, but nodded.
“Zo’or,” Sandoval began, “Please tell us about the last time you saw T’Than.”
“He was resting in our chamber for regeneration.”
“And he died during that cycle didn’t he?”
“Yes. Due to lack of core energy, because Mr. Doors blew it into the void.”
“And had Mr. Doors given any indication that he had thought about this prior to destroying it?”
“A week before, he had threatened to do just what he did.”
Next to Bobby, Joshua hissed, “That’s a lie! That’s not true!”
“Objection, your honor! This is unfair surprise. We were told nothing about this evidence.”
“Sidebar.” called Judge Hiller. Both Bobby and Sandoval stepped up to the bench.
“Did you notify the defense about this?”
“It was imperative that I not. Otherwise . . .”
“Agent Sandoval! You are required to give the defense full knowledge of what evidence you’re using. Now step back.” Judge Hiller turned to the jury, “The jury will disregard what you just heard about the threats. As far as you’re concerned that topic was never brought up. Often prosecutors will bring in unsubstantiated evidence to try and help their case. This is not permitted.”
Bobby sat back down next to Joshua and cursed under his breath, “Whatever the truth is, the jury did hear that.”
“It’s not true.” Joshua said. “I used to be a D.A. and that’s just blatantly wrong to introduce lies!”
Sandoval began questioning Zo’or again, “Do you have any reason to believe that Joshua Doors is a member of the resistance?”
“Aside from the fact that his father led it? Yes.”
“And resistance members have perpetrated acts of terrorism against Companions before?”
“Most definitely. And they should all receive punishment.”
“Your witness, Mr. Donnell.”
“You have evidence that my client is in the resistance?” Bobby asked the Taelon.
“Yes.”
“Please, share that with the court.”
“The Synod will not permit it. The information is sensitive.”
“They let you publicly condemn my client . . . at least provide some evidence, which you apparently don’t have.”
“Objection!” Sandoval said.
“Sustained.”
“Exactly when did T’Than die? According to the report it was only an hour after the core energy was destroyed. How could anyone who had recently attended a meeting on Earth lose energy so fast . . . even according to your own energy loss rates.”
“I do not understand why it happened, Mr. Donnell, but it did happen.”
“And I think the more important question. The Taelons had already discovered that cold fusion was impossibly. Why did you then knowingly lend core energy to Doors International, a corporation created by Jonathan Doors, resistance leader . . . or were you trying to frame Joshua Doors?”
About ten minutes later, a very ruffled and angry Synod leader stepped down from the witness chair.
“Mr. Donnell, the defense may call its first witness.” the judge announced.
“Your honor, the defense calls Agent Ronald Sandoval to the stand.” Bobby said triumphantly.
There was considerable murmuring at that.
“That’s ridiculous Mr. Donnell!” Sandoval snapped.
“Your honor, he was a witness, and I need to be allowed to examine all the evidence of this trial. And IF Mr. Sandoval had bothered to read the witness list, this would be no surprise.”
“And how exactly will I cross-examine?” Sandoval asked.
“Helen Gamble is the back-up D.A. on this. She can do the cross.”
Judge Hiller nodded, “Agreed. Mr. Sandoval, take the stand.”
Bobby remained composed as Sandoval was sworn in, but really wanted to tell the arrogant jerk off. “Mr. Sandoval, several days ago you told me that Joshua Doors is a constant irritant to the Taelon Synod. Would you please explain what you mean by that? Exactly what has he done to the Taelons, aside from destroying the core energy of course?”
Sandoval glared, “That information is classified.”
“Classified? How convenient.” Bobby turned to the judge, “Your honor . . .”
“You will answer the question.” Judge Hiller instructed.
“I will not.” Sandoval said.
“And why not, Agent Sandoval? Because you have no case? Because you know that Joshua Doors is not at fault in this . . . but you want to blame him so you can get him out of the way plus the fact that his father caused you problems.” Bobby quickly asked.
“Objection.” Helen said casually.
“Sustained.”
“Mr. Sandoval, were you instructed by the Taelons to win this trial at all costs? To use any legal and illegal means needed to win? And have you used illegal means?”
“Objection.” Helen said again.
“Sustained.” Judge Hiller said, “Since you refuse to answer, I’m holding you in contempt of court and we will adjourn until tomorrow morning. Also, since the defense got no examination of facts, the prosecution will get no cross.” She then hit the gavel on the desk as two bailiffs led an irate Sandoval to a cell.
***********************
“Mr. Donnell, you may call your next witness.”
“Your honor, the defense calls Renee Palmer to the stand.”
Renee sat down in the witness chair glancing at Joshua.
“Ms. Palmer, how long have you known my client?”
“We’ve been friends for years.”
“And you know what happened at One Taelon Avenue?”
“The technology inside the building took control of the minds of the occupants including Joshua’s.”
“And your own, correct?”
She nodded, “Yes.”
“And as a Doors International employee, do you know what technology was used for the program that influenced my client?”
“The very same technology as was used at One Taelon Avenue.”
“Are you certain of this Ms. Palmer?”
“Very. I had the chance to look at the program code. It’s nearly an exact match.”
“And, Ms. Palmer, did the Taelons appear to have any malice toward Mr. Doors?”
“Objection!” cried Sandoval.
“Overruled.”
“Yes. He questions the things they do and doesn’t accept them blindly.”
Bobby turned to look at the jurors, “Ms. Palmer, to your knowledge, does Joshua Doors have any resistance ties?”
“Not that I am aware of.”
“Thank you.”
Bobby sat down, and Sandoval began his questions, “You don’t know of any resistance ties of Mr. Doors?”
“I do not.”
“Are you in the resistance yourself Ms. Palmer?”
“Objection!” Bobby yelled.
“Sustained. Mr. Sandoval, please keep your questions relevant to this case.”
“You said that the technology was almost the same.”
“Yes.”
“Why would Jonathan Doors use that technology?”
“It wasn’t found to be controlling until after his death and no one knew about the program.” Renee responded.
Sandoval nodded, “And this technology was created by the Taelons.”
Renee glanced at him suspiciously, wondering what he was up to. “Yes.”
“And therefore Joshua blames the Taelons for his father’s death.”
“Objection . . . this witness cannot testify as to my client’s thoughts.” Bobby said.
“She testified that the Taelons had ill will toward Mr. Doors, I’m merely trying to show that the feeling went both ways . . .”
“Overruled.” Judge Hiller stated.
“Your honor,” Bobby started.
“Sit down counsel.”
Bobby started to object further but was silenced by her glare.
“Does Mr. Doors blame the Taelons for the death of his father?” Sandoval asked.
“No.” Renee said.
“Then who exactly does he blame?” Sandoval asked, tone now irritating.
“He blames himself.”
“Really?” Sandoval said, “Then perhaps he should be on trial for two counts of murder in the first degree.”
“Objection!”
“Sustained.” Judge Hiller said.
“Okay, he blames himself because he was under mind control by the Taelons? And given that, he has no anger whatsoever towards any Taelons?” Sandoval snorted with disbelief.
Renee remained silent.
“Allow me to present the court with some video footage from that night . . .”
[PUT OTA SCENE HERE]
“His father was the leader of the resistance -- a murderer and traitor, whom he loved. His father is now dead because of Taelon technology . . . and he has no motive to hate the Taelons, Ms. Palmer?”
***********************
“That didn’t go well.” Joshua said.
“I know, but if we hadn’t called her as our witness, they would have called her. And all in all, it would look better for us to present her.”
Joshua nodded, “Yeah, but still, this isn’t encouraging.”
Bobby entered the office, Joshua behind, “Conference in ten minutes.”
“That bad huh?” asked Ellenor.
“Bad enough.”
The door to the firm opened. “Joshua.”
Joshua turned around. “Hey, Renee.”
“It didn’t go too well did it?” she asked.
“No, actually it didn’t.” Bobby said, “But that’s not your fault. We probably shouldn’t have put you up there.” He turned to Joshua, “You’re testifying tomorrow.”
“Are you sure that’s wise Bobby?” Eugene asked.
“He’s the son of a resistance leader. How many people are going to believe that he has no connections? And if they think he has connections, they’ll convict him. That footage just gave them motive . . . plus the fact that he’d displayed violence before and been affected by technology before.”
“And they might just assume I’m the spoiled son of a billionaire . . . and that I’m weak-minded and I blame everyone else for my mistakes . . .” Joshua added.
Bobby nodded. “Unfortunately, that may be the case.”
***********************
The next day:
“Mr. Donnell?” questioned Judge Hiller.
“The defense calls Joshua Doors to the stand.”
After Joshua was sworn in, Bobby began his questions, “Mr. Doors, would you please tell the court what happened a year ago?”
“My father was killed at One Taelon Avenue.”
“And what caused it?”
“Objection B relevance!” Sandoval cried.
Bobby turned to the judge, “It is relevant to the case. I’m going somewhere with this, your honor.”
“Then hurry up and get there.” Judge Hiller said, “Overruled.”
“What caused your father’s death?”
“The building, or rather the artificial intelligence installed within it.”
“And who was the building built by?” Bobby asked.
“Objection!” Sandoval exclaimed forcefully.
Bobby turned, “I ask that the prosecution please remain silent and let me complete this line of questioning.”
“Agreed.” Judge Hiller glared at Sandoval.
“The Taelons built it.” Joshua said.
“And the building was responsible for several deaths as a result of human mind control?”
“Yes.”
“And you were a victim of this yourself?”
Joshua nodded, “Yes.”
“And this SAME technology was used by your father to create the program of himself that influenced you before you destroyed the core energy?”
“Yes.”
“Okay . . .” Bobby said, “So you did destroy the core energy?”
“I did.” Joshua affirmed.
“Because of the influence of the program?”
“Yes.”
“If the program never existed, do you think you would have destroyed the core energy?”
“Objection! Speculation, your honor, I move that the defense abandon this line of questioning!” Sandoval said.
“I’m going to allow it.”
“Would you have destroyed the core energy without the influence of the program?” Bobby repeated.
“No.”
“What gave you the idea for destroying the energy?”
“The program . . .”
“Created with technology used by the Taelons?”
“Yes.”
“So basically, they built the program that forced you to destroy their core energy?”
“That would be accurate.”
“Were you in complete control of your actions when you destroyed that energy?”
“No.”
“And, Mr. Doors, when you were taken to the mothership, you were tortured? Is that correct?”
“Yes.”
“Objection!” Sandoval rose to his feet, slapping the table.
“Every day, multiple times?” Bobby asked.
“Objection!”
“Yes.” Joshua responded. “They wanted me to suffer because they hated me and my father. As well as the fact that I knew too much.”
“You knew too much about the flaws of their technology, perhaps?” Bobby continued despite Sandoval’s objections.
“Sandoval told me as much.”
“. . . . irrelevant!” finished Sandoval.
Bobby turned to Judge Hiller, “Your honor, this is very relevant . . .”
She glared, “Sidebar! Now!”
Bobby and Sandoval stepped up to the bench,
“Your honor, this is totally irrelevant. Taelons have an entirely different justice system.”
“And yet you’re now operating in the human one. The Taelons were the reason this man did what he did . . . and now they want to kill and/or torture him and all they want now is to get rid of him. His innocence doesn’t matter to them. We have testimony about what they told him . . . that he in pain for their pleasure . . . nothing else. We have medical records showing what was done to him . . .”
“And none of that is relevant to what he did, counsel.” Sandoval said.
“Yes it is, because it establishes both why they loaned him the energy and why he destroyed it. They were setting him up . . . he was threatened by Agent Sandoval immediately following One Taelon Avenue. What better way to do this? I have to be allowed to argue it . . .”
Judge Hiller held up her hand, “I am extremely disgusted to find out that this went on. And Mr. Sandoval, given that there is evidence to suggest that he was in fact, influenced by the Taelons, the previous remarks will remain in the record, but,” she turned to Bobby, “Counsel, you’re on a short leash here. No playing with the emotions of the jurors B just the facts.”
Bobby nodded.
Judge Hiller announced, “I’m declaring a recess until tomorrow morning.” Pounding her gavel, she ended the trial for the day.
***********************
Bobby, Joshua, Eugene and Rebecca hurried back to the office.
“That was perfect!” Bobby said. “Great job. And pretty much the only way he could get you would be to cause you to contradict yourself.”
Joshua nodded, “I know, I was a D.A. once and that’s going to be his strategy.”
“Tomorrow, I’ll finish my questions and then let him cross his heart out . . .” Bobby said.
“Thank you. That was very good lawyering . . .”
Bobby opened the door to the office, just as Lindsay was opening it from the other side . . . “Bobby! We’ve found something you might want to see . . .”
Without warning, a gunshot sounded, hitting Lindsay square in the chest. Bobby grabbed her as she fell and everyone else hit the floor.
“Lindsay!” Bobby screamed, horrified. “Oh God!”
From inside the office, Ellenor and Jimmy quickly helped everyone into the room and shut the door. Lucy was already calling the paramedics and the police . . .
“Bobby, I love you . . .”
Bobby brushed the side of Lindsay’s face, “Hang on, Lindsay, please . . . I love you.” A tear ran down his face.
The door suddenly swung open, causing everyone to jump . . . but it was only the paramedics . . . they quickly and professionally began working on her . . . and put her on the stretcher. Bobby was by her side the entire way . . .
One of Bobby’s friends in the police department entered moments later, “We caught the guy . . . an ex-Taelon employee. He quit yesterday and claims to be working alone . . .”
“But you think this was on purpose?” Joshua asked.
“In the middle of this world-watched trial? If they were really dissatisfied why try and kill any of you?”
Ellenor shook her head, “My God.”
“Before you leave, I want to get statements from all of you.” Mike said. “I’ll tell you what, I’ll ride down to the hospital with you and take them there . . .”
Ellenor, Jimmy, Rebecca, Lucy and Eugene all nodded and followed. Joshua was right behind them.
Eugene turned around, “You don’t have to come . . .”
“I want to . . .” said Joshua.
“Okay, come on . . .” Ellenor said.
***********************
At the hospital, the group found Bobby pacing the waiting room, nearly crazy with worry.
Mike spoke first, “Bobby, I’m really sorry . . .”
“Did you catch the guy?” he asked furiously continuing his pacing.
“Yes.”
Bobby’s pacing stopped abruptly. “Why?”
“It was a Taelon employee, quit their job yesterday.” Mike said.
“It’s because of this case . . . they shot my wife . . .”
For the next hour, Bobby paced and everyone else watched . . . Everyone knew that there was nothing they could say. The silent wait was interrupted only when another woman entered the room, stopping to talk to Bobby and hug him, murmuring something quietly. She then came to sit down between Joshua and Ellenor.
“Hey Helen,” Ellenor said quietly.
“Hey,” she said.
“This is our client, Joshua Doors.”
Joshua nodded at her, “Hi.”
Helen nodded at him in acknowledgment but said nothing, as they resumed their silence . . .
Joshua soon found himself drifting off to sleep . . . and he let it happen. There was no telling when he might sleep safe again. Their waiting room was surrounded by police . . .
Suddenly, he felt someone shaking his arm gently, and he started awake.
“I think you were having a bad dream,” Helen said in a low tone. “Are you okay?”
Joshua stood, uncomfortable, “Yeah. I think I’m going to get some coffee.”
“I’ll join you.” Rebecca said.
Outside in the hall, Joshua harshly punched the elevator button.
“What’s wrong?”
“Nothing. I’m fine.”
“Uh huh,” Rebecca said, “Bad dream? Bobby and Lindsay have both told me about your nightmares. But I don’t think you need to worry. Bobby’s winning the case.”
“Yeah, well, Sandoval told me that no matter what, I’d be returning to the mothership. That everything happening in court is just a formality for the people. And he can do it too.” They stepped inside the elevator.
“He threatened you? Have you told Bobby?”
“What could Bobby do with that? What can anyone do?”
“You might be surprised. Criminal defense lawyers are obligated to do whatever they legally can to get the client off. I know you used to be a D.A. but we’re not as bound to rules as you were. What if Sandoval buys off the jury?”
“That’s illegal.” Rebecca snorted.
“I don’t think you have any idea of what kind of power Sandoval has . . .”
“I know enough to know that he’s probably behind this. And I know Bobby well enough to know that he suspects too. And that he’ll do anything he legally can to make sure that Sandoval loses this case.”
“I don’t think it’ll be enough.” Joshua said as the elevator suddenly shook and stopped. “Perfect. Goes right along with my week . . .” Joshua punched the door.
Rebecca sat down calmly, “They’ll have it fixed shortly.”
“After spending a few weeks on the mothership . . . I don’t really care much for confined spaces.” he said lightly.
“Understandable.” Rebecca paused, “Sit down. The more you think about being in a small elevator, the more nervous you’ll get.”
Joshua nodded and sat down.
“You wanna talk about it?”
He looked up, “What?”
“Whatever happened to you.”
“Not really.” Joshua said. A long silence followed, which Joshua broke, “I’m sorry about Lindsay. It’s partly my fault . . .”
“No, it’s not.” Rebecca said, “And don’t worry about the trial, Bobby’s dug himself deeper than this before.”
Joshua looked at her questioningly.
“He nearly got convicted of murder 1 himself. The prosecutors were going after him, worse than this.”
“Why do you do it? You know that pretty much all your clients are guilty. Why be a defense lawyer?”
“Bobby will tell you, and I agree, the reason that we do this is for that occasional innocent person. We’ve been around enough guilty people that we can usually tell. We don’t do this to get guilty people off . . . we do it to save innocent people, like you.”
“Thank you.”
“No problem.” Rebecca said.
“What happens if I do get convicted though?”
“Bobby will appeal it. He’ll go as far as he can with it. He cares about his cases, especially ones he believes are innocent.”
Suddenly the elevator jolted, and rose, opening up at the exact level they’d come from. Joshua stepped out of the elevator, “I’m not doing that again.”
Bobby came around the corner, followed by Eugene and Ellenor, “Come on, we have to get ready for trial tomorrow. Rebecca, will you stay here with Lindsay?”
“Bobby, don’t you think you should slow down a little?”
“I can’t Rebecca, or I might just go after Agent Sandoval.”
“What did the doctors say?” Joshua asked.
“They don’t know.” His face was intense, his mind concentrating on the trial B and only the trial, anything to keep busy . . .
***********************
Bobby stood from his chair, “Mr. Doors, how close were you to your father?” His tone was slightly sharper than normal. But it was the only sign of his worry over Lindsay.
“We weren’t. Before his run for president, we had not spoke in nearly three years.”
“Three years? Any reason?”
Joshua looked uncomfortable, “I wasn’t sure he really cared about me.”
“So the relationship wasn’t very good?”
“No.”
“And before his announcement of the resistance, were you aware of what he was planning?”
“No.”
“Mr. Doors, you have to know how this looks . . . the son of a rich, dead resistance leader . . . . did you plan to murder the Taelon race? And were you in complete control of your actions when you destroyed the core energy?”
“No to both. I loved my father, but we never agreed on anything.”
“No further questions, your honor,” Bobby said, sitting back down.
“Very well. I’m adjourning until 10 AM tomorrow morning. We’ll reconvene then. Dismissed.”
Sandoval caught Bobby as he left the courtroom, “Could we talk a minute?”
Bobby said “Okay,” then turned, “Eugene, I’ll meet you guys back at the office.”
“Okay,” Eugene said, nodding his head and nearly dragging Joshua out of the hallway, as it was packed with the media . . .
Sandoval and Bobby strolled down the street to a corner coffee shop and after getting their coffee, sat down.
“I assume you have a plea offer, otherwise we wouldn’t be here.”
“One year on the mothership. After that, he can go free. That’s a lot better than the jury will give you for any murder charge.”
“And what will happen to my client aboard the mothership?”
“That’s of concern to no one.” Sandoval said.
“Except my client, and consequently me as well. And who will monitor his treatment? And that he gets freed and that you don’t decide to get rid of him before the year is done?”
Sandoval glared, “It’s the best offer you’ll get Mr. Donnell, and the only one.”
“The offer is rejected.”
“You have to take it to your client.” Sandoval reminded him, “Tell Joshua that he has until tomorrow morning when the trial starts to decide. After that, the offer is no longer on the table.”
“I’ll take it to my client, but don’t get too excited that his response would be any different than mine.” Bobby turned to go.
“It’s in his best interests, Mr. Donnell, and I’d daresay yours as well.” Sandoval paused, then added, “I’m sorry about your wife . . .”
***********************
“You think I should take this?” Joshua exclaimed in disbelief.
“No, I don’t.” Bobby calmly explained, “But as you know, it appears to be in your best interests, and by law I’m required to get your response on this before rejecting it.”
“Well, you can tell Sandoval to go stick this . . .”
Jimmy interrupted, “Okay, this could be a good sign. It means he’s worried. But on the other hand, it’s only a year.”
“I was only up there a few weeks before . . . and look what they did to me . . . In a year, they would make sure that I died >accidently’.”
Bobby said, “All right. I’m going to call Sandoval and tell him where he can put his offer, though I don’t think I’ll phrase it as colorfully . . .”
Lucy knocked on the conference door, “Agent Sandoval is here.” she whispered.
“Show him in.” Bobby said.
Moments later, Sandoval appeared at the door of the conference room, two Volunteers in tow. Joshua stiffened when he saw them.
“My client has rejected your offer.”
Sandoval nodded, “That’s actually not my purpose here. I’m afraid that I’m going to have to ask all of you to leave the office. It will be shut down for the next week.”
“Are you joking?” Eugene asked.
“Apparently the Bar got word of some of your antics and agree that there might be evidence of malpractice in several of your cases. They intend to investigate.”
Bobby nodded, “Fine. Eugene, Rebecca, Ellenor, get all the current cases packed up. We’ll be out of your way in ten minutes.”
“I’m afraid I can’t allow you to remove anything.”
“Well I’m afraid we have to . . . otherwise we’ll be guilty of malpractice. And if you don’t let me get my current cases, I will report YOU to the bar.”
“I don’t think so Mr. Donnell.”
Bobby turned to Lucy, “Call Mike now. And get Judge Hiller in here right NOW.”
She turned and quickly began making the calls. Within ten minutes, Mike, their friend in the police, and Judge Hiller both arrived.
“What’s going on Bobby?” Mike asked. Judge Hiller raised an eyebrow, asking the same question.
“Agent Sandoval here is attempting to keep us from defending our clients. He claims that the FBI and the Bar have evidence of malpractice in my firm and that he needs to go through our files.”
“That is unacceptable.” Judge Hiller said.
Sandoval glared, “It is necessary, especially with their firm on this case. You can’t keep me from shutting down their firm.”
“No, I can’t.” admitted Judge Hiller, “But neither you nor anyone else will be looking through their case files while opposing them in a case. Mr. Donnell, gather whatever files you need and clear out. Mike, place a guard on this and see that NO ONE enters without my permission. And Mr. Sandoval, please just clear out.”
Sandoval glared and stalked out. Everyone else moved to grab some of the essential files.
“We’ll move everything to my place.” Bobby said, then turned to ask Judge Hiller, “Can he really do that?”
“With his power? Yes, unfortunately he can. I don’t like the smell of this Bobby.”
“Neither do I.”
One hour later everyone was gathered at Bobby and Lindsay’s home.
“I can’t believe that!” fumed Bobby, “How far would he go to win?”
“As far as he needs to . . .” Joshua said.
“Is he responsible for what happened to Lindsay?”
Joshua hesitated, but finally admitted, “Most likely, but you’ll never be able to prove it.”
“What if I recalled him to the witness chair . . . and asked him?”
“He’d deny it.” Joshua said, “And you don’t have proof that it’s otherwise.”
“Then how about I call him to the witness chair, tie him . . .”
A knock at the door interrupted the conversation. Bobby swung it open in frustration, stopping cold when he saw the person behind it, “Mike. What’s wrong?”
“Bobby, we have some bad news.”
“What?” his voice had grown infinitely tense. “Mike, what?”
“Lindsay’s missing.”
“What?!!!” exclaimed everyone in the room.
“We don’t know what happened, but they left this.” he held out a note to Bobby. “We haven’t looked at it yet, it said specifically for your eyes only.”
Bobby jerked the paper from Mike’s hand and nearly ripped it pulling it open. “Some supporter of the Taelons says he has her. He says that the only way I’ll get her back is for our firm to drop this case.” Bobby cursed and began pacing.
“We’re going to do everything I can. Judge Hiller is delaying the trial another week.”
“Mike, I think Sandoval is behind this. I think he threatened Lindsay earlier.”
“What exactly did he say?”
“We were talking about a plea deal that we rejected. He said >It’s in his best interests, Mr. Donnell, and I’d daresay yours as well.’. Then he added, >I’m sorry about your wife . . .’.”
“Bobby, that’s not enough, especially for someone of his renown.” Mike said.
“Then find my wife before I kill him.”
Suddenly, Bobby’s cell phone rang.
“Mr. Donnell.”
“What do you want Sandoval?”
“I heard that your wife was missing . . . some of my Volunteers found her just a moment ago while doing a routine check of the area. I’ve already had her taken back to the hospital . . . but I think she’s okay.”
“What game are you playing Sandoval? You and I both know that you’re responsible for this . . .”
“I don’t have any idea what you’re talking about, Mr. Donnell.” The line clicked off.
Bobby relayed the conversation to the room, “Mike, do a background check on him . . . see if you can find anything . . .” Bobby trailed off. “Investigate.”
“We’ll try Bobby. But investigating an FBI agent is a very hard thing to do . . . especially when they work for the companions. I’ll also call in a few more guards for your wife. And I’m assigning a few deputies to you and Mr. Doors.”
***********************
The trial had resumed a few mornings later.
“Mr. Doors,” Sandoval strolled slowly across the court room toward the witness chair, “You did destroy the core energy correct?”
“Yes.” Joshua said, nearly biting his tongue to keep from snapping at the agent. Bobby had warned him against any sarcasm at all.
“And how do you feel about the Taelons?”
“I don’t agree with all their methods and policies.”
“So, it’s safe to say that you don’t like them?”
“I don’t care much for them, no.” Joshua responded calmly.
“Okay. Forgive me for not taking Ms. Palmer’s word on things, but are you a member of the resistance?”
“No, I’m not.”
“You do realize that you’re under oath, Mr. Doors.” Sandoval stated nastily.
“Objection! Asked and answered.” Bobby said, “No evidence has been presented that my client has any involvement in or connections to the resistance.”
“Sustained.”
“Mr. Doors,” continued Sandoval, “Were you upset when your father died while saving your life?”
“Of course I was.” Joshua said.
“And as Ms. Palmer stated, you blamed yourself?”
“Yes.” Joshua glanced at Bobby who nodded at him.
“Did you want the Taelons dead? Did you feel an obligation to your father, perhaps, to do so?”
Joshua responded, “I never wanted all the Taelons dead. But I wanted whichever ones that were ultimately responsible for my father’s death brought to justice.”
“And so, you took that into your own hands?” Sandoval asked.
“Objection!”
“Sustained.”
“No further questions, your honor,” Sandoval said.
Judge Hiller nodded, “Redirect, Mr. Donnell?”
“No, your honor, the defense rests.”
“You may step down.” Judge Hiller said to Joshua.
***********************
“All that’s left is the closing.”
“What are our chances?” Joshua asked.
“They haven’t made their burden, so I’d say pretty good.”
“But . . .” Joshua prompted.
“Sandoval is a powerful figure. No one wants to be his enemy. And besides, your father was the founder of the resistance that has caused so many problems.” Bobby said.
“But I’m NOT him!” Joshua declared emphatically.
“That doesn’t matter.”
***********************
“His father didn’t like the Taelons, neither does he. His father started and ran the Resistance and as you heard Zo’or testify, we have evidence that Joshua Doors is at least involved in it. His father sponsored projects and violent acts designed to destroy or discredit the Taelons . . . why should he be any different? He destroyed the core energy . . . no one disputes that fact. He destroyed it and has killed a Taelon as a result. More deaths are sure to follow . . . Shouldn’t he pay for that? Or will this jury bend to the hero worship of Jonathan Doors and his son . . .?” Sandoval’s closing was short and to the point. He returned and sat down.
Bobby stood, “Joshua Doors wasn’t in control of his actions when he destroyed the core energy. Yes, his father ran a resistance movement, but they weren’t even close . . . they disagreed so greatly on many issues. Joshua Doors never supported his father’s movement. But the Taelons USED him as a tool to get to his father. And now they want to use him as a tool of revenge . . . to punish him for his father’s crimes. As for disagreeing with Taelon policies . . . I think every one of us disagrees with something they did . . . that’s not a crime. In fact, it’s healthy for our country . . . when we stop questioning and investigating is when we need to be concerned. The Taelons used this man. They used him at the research facility called One Taelon Avenue. They brainwashed him . . . they used him as bait to lure his father there so that the building could kill him. Then, the same technology was unknowingly by Jonathan Doors, used to build a program of himself . . . that brainwashed this man yet again.
Can you imagine what it must be like? Having your humanity violated . . . your free will taken away . . . and then being tortured and held responsible for actions that you couldn’t even control. You saw him hold a gun on his own father under mind control . . . can you imagine what that must be like? Powerless to even stop yourself? Can you imagine?” Bobby stopped and silently turned and sat down.
“Now we wait.” Bobby whispered to Joshua as Judge Hiller instructed the jury.
***********************
“Madam foreperson of the jury, have you reached a verdict?”
The woman stood, “We have your honor.”
“What say you?”
“Taelon Synod versus Joshua Doors on the charge of murder in the first degree, we find the defendant, Joshua Doors . . . guilty.”
Joshua heard the collective gasp of his lawyers, along with his own. How could the jury do this? Unless influenced by something else . . . He glanced over at Sandoval and read it in his eyes . . . Sandoval HAD done something.
“Your honor, we move for a judgement not withstanding the jury verdict.” Bobby said, standing.
“Mr. Donnell, Mr. Sandoval. Chambers. Now.” barked Judge Hiller.
Bobby turned back to Joshua, “I’m going to see what I can do.”
***********************
Once inside Judge Hiller’s chambers, Bobby turned to Sandoval, “What did you do B threaten the jury?”
“The jury found Mr. Doors guilty.” He turned to Judge Hiller, “We will be asking that he be returned to the Taelon Synod.”
“What? So you can torture him more?”
“How the Taelons choose to dispense justice is none of your concern, Mr. Donnell.”
“He’s my client! It definitely IS my concern.”
“Quiet!” Judge Hiller snapped, “I do hate to overturn any verdict given by a jury, but this time I will think about it, because there are compelling circumstances. You’ll have my ruling by the morning.”
“What about my client?”
“Until then, he will be taken into custody.”
“But . . .”
“I’ve made my decision on that counsel. It is non-negotiable. Dismissed.”
Sandoval huffed out immediately while Bobby lagged behind.
Judge Hiller looked up at him from her paperwork a moment later, “What is it Bobby?”
“You know that verdict is unfair. Something’s not right.”
“I said that I’d take it under advisement.”
Bobby frowned, “If it stands, you know what will happen to him. You saw the medical records . . .”
“Bobby, I’ll think about it. But this system was designed to give you a trial by your peers.”
“A fair trial. This trial wasn’t fair. And look I know I shouldn’t say this because I can’t substantiate it, but the prosecutor threatened my client by telling him that no matter what B he’d end up back in a Taelon cell. And the man has had an opportunity to run. And he has the resources. But he’s trusting that the process will work here. He should have nothing to fear.”
“Counsel, you are dismissed. You’ll have my judgement in the morning.”
Bobby sighed, nodded, and left.
When he reentered the court room, he saw them already handcuffing Joshua. He hurried over, “Excuse me, I need to speak with him a moment,”
The guard nodded and backed off a few steps.
Bobby hissed, “You know the drill. Don’t talk to anyone about anything. I know you know that, but I have to say it anyway. No one -- not even friends. I’ll be by shortly and we’ll go over our options, just in case the judgement is against you.”
Joshua nodded wordlessly.
***********************
Bobby arrived at the jail an hour later to find a very frustrated and upset Joshua Doors pacing his cell. “How could they do that? They know what will happen to me . . .” Joshua shivered.
“I think Judge Hiller will rule in your favor. There’s a very good chance.”
“And you thought we’d win the trial.”
“Yes, but evidently someone screwed with the system. The only problem is that we can’t prove it!” the frustration was evident in his voice. “Whatever happens, we do have basis for an appeal. And I know Judge Hiller. If sentencing occurs, she won’t give you back to the Taelons.”
Joshua took a deep breath, “So what next?”
“We see what Judge Hiller rules . . .”
“What if . . . Bobby, if the conviction stands . . . couldn’t they go for the death penalty?”
“I don’t think that will happen. They’re pushing to get you back on the mothership anyway . . . but Hiller won’t allow a death penalty here. The evidence is circumstantial only.”
“Circumstantial is enough to convict.” Joshua reminded him.
“Enough to convict for murder B yes. Enough for jail time B yes. Enough for the death penalty B no.” Bobby stood, beginning to pace frustratedly.
“Bobby, the Taelons will push for the death penalty if they can’t get me. And you know they can manipulate Thompson into putting pressure to give it. And Thompson and I aren’t on the greatest terms. When I left his cabinet, well, I basically told him off.”
“Great . . .” he paused, “Judge Hiller won’t be swayed by politics. She’s fair.”
“This isn’t just regular politics, Bobby.”
Bobby sighed, “I know . . .” he cursed.
Joshua buried his head in his hands, “I can’t believe this is happening. How could this happen?”
“I don’t know.” Bobby hesitated, “My gut tells me that something’s rotten. The problem is that I can’t find any proof.”
“How are we going to . . .”
“We’ll find a way. We’re as ready as we can be until the decision comes out.”
Joshua looked up, “Bobby?”
“What?”
“How’s Lindsay doing?”
Bobby stopped his pacing and turned to face Joshua. Joshua could see the tension and fear in his face. “She’s in critical condition. She hasn’t woken up yet. They . . . they don’t know.”
“And we’re ready for trial?” Joshua asked.
Bobby nodded.
“Go see her. Send Eugene here. If we’re ready, then there’s no reason you have to stay.”
Bobby nodded again, “I’ll swing by tomorrow morning before the trial.”
***********************
“Will the defendant please rise?” Judge Hiller asked.
Joshua and Bobby both stood.
“I have considered this case overnight. And as you are aware, circumstantial evidence is enough to convict. However, I do not feel that there is enough evidence, circumstantial or otherwise to warrant the death penalty or even life in prison. Therefore, while I will not overturn the verdict entirely, in the interest of fairness, I will reduce the charge to murder in the second degree and I sentence the defendant to 25 years . . . case dismissed.”
Joshua nearly collapsed in shock.
Bobby placed a hand on his shoulder, “We’ll appeal it. We’ll find a way.”
Sandoval approached and said simply, “One year on the mothership . . . I’m sure we could work something out . . .”
Joshua glared, “No.”
The bailiff approached, cuffing Joshua’s hands behind his back.
Bobby turned to him, “Trust me on this one.”
***********************