Charles started to review his options. There were no options for him. He had not volunteered for this, but had been ordered to arrive at the base today to defend a prisoner.

The officer was still waiting for Charles to either respond or to start moving again. Gritting his teeth he said, “Okay, if that is the rule I will see what I can do. No promises for a defense that could be overturned in an appeal.”

“There will be no appeals.” the officer responded. Once Charles took a step forward, the officer turned around and started to lead him again. Time to make the best of the situation.

“What is the prisoner’s name?” he asked.

“09128164” the office responded.

“If I’m to defend the prisoner, I would like his name.” Charles responded.

“You can discuss that with him, if he tells you.” was the response he got

This trial was not going to be anything he was use to. “Why is it I have the feeling that this trial is for show only?”

“This trial is classified under the Official Secret Acts. It is not for the public.”