Charge of Another Kind

While the challenging network continued to pepper questions at my host, there was nary a reply. There was a new set of thoughts that were forming under the pressure being applied by the challenger, when the observing network that was positioned above the challenger entered the fracas on the compression-relaxation channel:

Two minutes, Solicitor Wedderburn.

To which, the challenging network performed a vertical up and down motion, which I was able to detect via the shift in the whorlic frequencies that were racing about. Focus returned within Wedderburn's network and new assault began.

You have replied with silence to our inquiry as to how, exactly, you came to be in possession of Governor Hutchinson's letters. As you are unwilling to assist our investigation, it will end with you.

You, Sir, are a Thief.

Any prudent person should hide their papers and lock up their desks whenever this Gentleman is amongst you.

Scanning Wedderburn's network as the statement finished up, there was a distinct lack of satisfaction. More was roiling in this network, but I had not the pattern data to match it with, the thoughts being so far from my base of observation. As Wedderburn returned a seated position, the presiding network took the compression-relaxation channel.

This hearing is closed.

Mr. Franklin, you are dismissed.

The last statement from the presiding network was punctuated with a sharp spike on the compression-relaxation channel that echoed within the hard confines of the space in which all were enclosed. With that signal, I detected a shift in position as propulsion pulses were queued and executed. With each step, jeers and shouts inundated the space, until the door had been cleared and closed. Just steps from the closed door that would never again be opened, the distinct triple spike of a call to order washed up on compression-relaxation sensors, despite the closed door.