Transcript For Strip 2004

Panel 1
Bok narrates from a cameo, as Belbenoit stands forward, facing the arbiters:

Bok: In some other legal systems, witnesses are questioned by opposing attorneys. In our system, witnesses are questioned by the arbiters as well as the advogados.
Arb Sandini: When was the first time you saw Senhora Martelli?
Belbenoit: At the RPLD meeting in Mercado Desoto on the 11th of Octiary, where I was providing security for Zépherine Aziz, per my official duties.
Panel 2
On Belbenoit, angled so we can see Diana at her table behind him. She is staring daggers at him.

Arbiter (OP): Why did you confront Martelli in the parking lot at La Porte Gardens six days later?
Belbenoit: In an official capacity, to question her about the incident with other Smith & Holder agents at her office a few days earlier.
Arbiter (OP): And why did you assault her there?
Panel 3
Belbenoit looks troubled. Angle so we can see Arb Feingold. Miller in extreme right of panel
Belbenoit: I … ah … she spoke a secret passphrase known only to RPLD members.
Belbenoit: It shocked me, and I wanted to learn how she knew of it.
Arb Feingold (OP): Are you still an RPLD member?
Miller: Objection! Irrelevant to the situation.
Panel 4
Looking past an unhappy Miller at the arbiters. In an inset, we can see de Castries face-palming.
Arb Andrews: Objection overruled. This is very relevant.
Arb Andrews: You know that any false testimony here would completely end a witness' protection under our laws, voiding all contracts. Answer the question, Senhor Belbenoit.
Belbenoit: I … I'm still a member.

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