Group Litigation VS Elysium Fight Hall et al.

### Defendant

Hoth Quality Universal, Elysium Fight Hall, Hotholion Drakonic (lawyer), Alexandra Rosethorne (lawyer)

### Witnesses

Arturon Satsujin, Mis’to Raesthe, Mittens, Navka Dustreaver, Ria Duskwind

## Consumer Group Litigation Abstract

This litigation arises from Defendant Hoth Quality Universal’s, parent company of Elysium Fight Hall, recent quarterly financial report (as of July 2023) detailing its administrative dealings with numerous local business collectives and various partnerships with merchandise production groups with regardsThis testimony is unacceptable. to the ongoing operations of Elysium Fight Hall, through which the defendant inadvertently admitted to conspiracy to withhold workers compensation and monetary rewards from all fighters (classed as employees) despite using their intellectual property as the major component of said partnerships.

Plaintiffs bring this civil action by and through Kaldalis Daardrendian. Plaintiffs are: Kaldalis Darrdrendian *ex parte* the Fighters of Elysium, as *advocatus*. Plaintiffs volunteered their time and image in various appearances via Elysium Fight Hall’s broadcast showcases. Merchandise based on these appearances were then produced and distributed into Eorzean markets without prior acknowledgement by affected entities. Sponsorships were not negotiated with plaintiffs present and therefore had no stakeholder influence in corporate decision making. By withholding due compensation and royalties, plaintiffs’ lives have been adversely affected via Hoth Quality Universal’s fraudulent management, potentially violating antitrust regulations and government-regulated labour agreements.

## Defendant's Statement

“This is an outright attack on an honest gillionaire! Throughout my career I have aimed to give back to the community through charity and philanthropy. I have made companies dedicated to empowering the lesser man, preaching the good word of equal gold for all to any who would listen. Upon my name as His High Holiness Hotholion Drakonic, First of His Name, Chief Executive Omni-Crafter of Hoth Quality Universal, Grandmaster of Elysium Fight Hall, Conqueror of the Seven Seas, Archbishop of the Golden One, The Prophet of Profit, Eccentric Gillionaire and World Renowned Philanthropist, I refute these claims with my very being.

I started my adventure in this world as a peasant that had to co-lease a cottage with 2 other long time friends. Since then, I have worked tirelessly to ensure that other people do not suffer the same hardships as myself. I am not the monster that these accusers claim I am. I truly believe in equality and treating the people under my boot with the same fairness as how I treat my partners. In fact, one literal embodiment of my beliefs has been a holy chapel that I myself built! The Chapel of Bahamut was created as a place for peace and worship, not to mention a haven for those who wanted another option to come together as a married couple away from the prying eyes of the Twelve.

Every month I volunteer at rundown, decrepit venues such as The First Steps and The Stray Sheep. My actions there have led countless adventurers to begin their new lives in our community with vigour and a full stomach. In fact, you can ask people throughout the land what Hoth has done for them, at least 70% of them will state that I have gifted them furniture, food, weapons and gear! For we at Hoth Quality Universal put the words “People” before “Profit” in our cooperative dictionary.

And it was for the people that Elysium was formed! An Event Created by Volunteers, For Volunteers. Fighters from throughout the community signed up as volunteers to make their name known in the adventuring world as the incredible legends they are. We advertised them as such, pushed them to strive and turned each and every one of them into household names! They literally sign away their souls and image every month, allowing us, the hosts, to do with them what we will. We mock them, we taunt them, we praise them and we cry for them. Then we turn them into action figures and shirts.

Sure, I was reluctantly dragged into hosting the sessions, but over time I developed an unnatural love for the event, and began to turn it into the spectacular festival it is today. Elysium is broadcast to hundreds of thousands of Eorzeans every month, and is run by hundreds of employees working tirelessly to ensure the event and venue are running at peak efficiency.

However, as the scale of our operation increases, it requires funding of the highest magnitude. Employees need to be paid, our beloved mascot, Mittens, must be fed. I entered into sponsorship deals and merchandising agreements with multiple corporations and unscrupulous individuals. Then, as the figurative corporate umbrella expanded ever wider, we adopted and absorbed venues that had struggled due to unknown circumstances and being overrun by degenerate players. We advertised for anyone who asked, and rarely asked them for compensation, because the best way for people to grow is by appealing to our audience, a vast network of interested parties who are just itching to jump into something new hosted by our community. It is an untapped market for all involved!

Any and all profit generated goes to benefitting Elysium Fight Hall and improving upon the event as a whole! Why, some gil has been set aside for future renovations and future acts of charity! Which is why it is such a shame and, dare I say it, an outrage that malicious members of our very own community demand that they see a share of the royalties made based on their intellectual property that they literally signed away every time they fought in Elysium Fight Hall. Every gil made goes towards making my life better, and if the Gillionaire’s life is better, everyone’s life is better! It's simple trickle-down economics!”

## Witness Statement(s)

A variety of statements conducted through interviewing customers and affected parties. Some examples include:

> “Elysium let me hone my skills against some of Eorzea's most reputable fighters. In a few short years I have gained a questionable ex-boyfriend, a questionable reputation thanks to Hoth's running commentary, and the BEST MENTOR IN THE WORLD. Also his cat ate me but I got better.” - Escher
>
>

"He keeps buying me tea and bringing me books, so clearly he pays a lot of attention to small details. What's he getting sued for again? Negligence? I think negligence is meant to be done by accident, so if he did it, it was probably on purpose. He already spends a lot of money, why would he bother not putting in safety measures? I'm just confused." - Lucille

> "Ser Hotholion Drakonic's attempt to gain inside information on the Dorya Apothecary has left its staff baffled at the attempt. A terrible costume alongside a slightly lowered voice were his attempts at getting an in with the staff. Previously Ser Draconic has given presents to the apothecary under dubious circumstances and means. Such contained highly condensed aetherical crystals for display. However one must appreciate the Ser's involvement in the local economy and his well-meaning (although dubious) philanthropy." - Koja’to
>
>

“Meow” – Mittens

> "Ser Hotholion Drakonic? I seem to recall that he presented himself with a great many more titles than just 'ser', but yes, I've encountered the man on several occasions. In Radz-at-Han there is a saying: poor is flashy, rich is loud, true wealth is quiet. I'll let his appearance and general demeanour speak for where I'd place him on that scale, though he's so grandiose the scales would simply collapse under the weight of all that ego. Arkana seemed at ease in his presence, and he makes a loud noise about doing so much for charity, so he can't be wholly malign. Even if he did call me a common stripper. Mm.. though now I think on it, Arkana's taste in men is questionable at times. Ask me no more... I need to think." - Rasalas
>
>

"Made me spend hours givin' myself a migraine pourin' over me paperwork to make sure y'ain't snuck a take over clause in it..." - Mis’to

> “I’m told that the maker signatures on coffee cups can go away? Idk if that’s time based or based on the number you make and give away, but it’d be a shame if the markings on my Hoth Quality Inc novelty coffee mug faded in the wash. It’s definitely in my top 5 mugs” - Izayoi
>
>

"I met the man of my dreams here, just watching his brilliance has changed me forever and inspired me to become a better person. I hope to one day match the sheer generosity he shows others in his charitable workmanship. I also wish he would whisk me away in his rippling, muscular red arms” - Arkana Grey (unconfirmed)
“Every product Hoth has ever given Corsen has functioned perfectly as intended, and she honestly kinda hates it” – Corsen

> "My excursions into Elysium haven't really affected my reputation at all, mainly because that giant gold goof continually forgets my name, not like that's too large of an issue... But the fact that he outright refuses to pay those that fight in the Elysium ring is another case in of itself alongside his shameless attempts at promoting his own creations and even trying to force fighters to use these untested pieces of scrap metal in fights, I'm sure that counts as illegal under extortion / coercion and also a serious health and safety risk to the fighter." - Anonymous
>
>

"Seriously, how is Hoth not in a Gaol already?" - Anonymous

> "Motherf\*\*\*er blew up the floor under me while I was fighting him and his monk friend and we fell into a pit of death... 10/10 would do again" - Anonymous
>
>

“I haven’t been paid in 3 months! When I complained to the head of accounting, he just meowed at me and rolled over!” - Anonymous

## Evidence(s)

*Due to the sheer scale of information, we are only allowed to showcase a few examples of evidence included. Please use some of these as a guideline as to what was included in the datasheets provided to the court.*

### Sponsorship Receipts

List of receipts with transactions dating back 3 years, when Elysium Fight Hall first opened its doors as a ‘better fight club’. Each receipt details transactions between Hoth Quality Universal and various sponsors, regarding payment for advertisements during peak viewing hours.

List of partners include:

* The Stray Sheep
* The First Steps
* Silverfang Dojo
* Aetherveil
* Esper Care
* Tsukiakari
* Pixies’ Portal
* Eifawyb Draperies
* The Evertree
* The Fortune
* Fortuna
* Endless Nights
* Silvy’s Chapel
* MEWS

### Recordings of Advertisements

Today's wedding objections are sponsored by the Stray Sheep. Is someone in the way of your true love blossoming? Got a clingy girlfriend that just won't let go? Take them to the Stray Sheep! Either way, no one is coming out alive.

Pearl White Wedding Gown - 120,000 gil. Flowing Veil - 30,000 gil. Floral Bouquet - 2,000 gil. The moment where the elation of walking down the aisle in your beautiful wedding dress turns to despair upon seeing that your groom is literally the Stripper Extraordinaire - Priceless." Her Wedding is the most important day in her life, one everyone will remember forever. Don't ruin it for her by picking up your tatters from the nearby dumpster. Don't leave a festering scar in the memory of a lifetime. Invest in style. Invest in your future. Invest, in Eifawyb Draperies.

### Public Records of all Elysium Fight Results

“First started by the late Jun’a, every Elysium has had its match results recorded post broadcast and chiselled into stone by the Chief Executive Omni-crafter himself. As such, all records are showcased and available for all upon request at the Elysium Library, and now at the Drakonic Court Records Department.

Week 7Week 8Week 12
### List of “Nom de plumes”

Nicknames granted to each fighter by the benevolent Hotholion Drakonic that has served as a basis for their rise to fame. A few cherry-picked examples include:

* Zeke -> Fist of the Frost Star
* Ramen -> Packet of Surprises
* Kvasaari -> of the Scarlet Winter, 70% Leg
* Seraphina -> The Steel Fusilier.
* Mis’to -> The Unrelenting/The Red Mage of Old Age, He Who Will Turn You As Blind And Deaf As He Is
* Mjern -> The Apron Rabbit of Sheep, Twice Crowned Queen of Elysium
* Kaldalis -> Little Dragon of the Technicolour Dress
* Ria -> Haven’s Eternal Angel
* Arturon -> The Waking/ Walking Regret, The Queen’s Night, The Satsuma, The Ashen Samurai of a Thousand Cuts, The NEW Queen of Elysium!
* Navka -> Rock Hard

## Full Transcript

**In order to see the transcript please press on expand button:**
The courtroom was filled to the brim with constant chatter from people. On one side, new arrivals trying to find their seats, on the other, people are trying to share snacks. With lawyers already at their tables judge joins the courtroom. A sudden shouting voice is being heard.

“Ladies and gentlemen, please get up from your seats. In front of you, we have our Judge, Kayla Thelbourne the Honourable.”
> Kayla Thelbourne: “I shall strive to be the embodiment of objectivity, for the betterment of the community we all belong to. Pray leave your attempts at corruption at the door, I shall collect them on my way out.”
>
>

After the judge is done introducing themselves, the same voice from earlier continues
> “Today we have the case Group Litigation vs. Elysium Fight Hall. Kaldalis Daardrendian will be presenting the plaintiff on the other side we have Alexandra Rosethorne with Hotholion Drakonic defending himself.”
>
>

The crowd then goes back to their usual chattering about the case. On one side it could be heard that some people were already demanding executions on the other hand some people trying to explain how it is not a murder trial with one voice from the front seat pitching in louder, saying “Not yet…”. During this time Kaldalis Daardrendian is being called for the hearing.
> Kayla Thelbourne: “Sir Kaldalis Daardrendian, first of all good afternoon. Hot outside, isn't it? Would you please do us the honours of opening our session? The stage is yours, and the crowd is invited to keep the background noise to a minimum.”
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Thank you, your honour. For those that did not hear it to begin with, today we stand in discussion for the case of Elysium Fight Hall against the group litigation of those under its employ and without, on matters of pay and safety.”
>
>

turns to the Jury before continuing.
> "People of the jury and the honourable judge behind me. My goal today is to bring to light some of Mister Drakonic's actions that some of you may need to be made aware of. His actions have caused this case to be brought about in the first place. Whether what we will bring forth today will be convincing for you, I cannot say for certain. I can only say, at this moment, how much it harms myself in particular to have to stand opposed to such a giant, but as you will see it is sorely necessary and has to be done.”
>
>

As he finishes, he bows to the Jury and then the Judge, turning to return to his seat. After that, Hotholion Drakonic pre-emptively stands up from his chair.
> Kayla Thelbourne: “Thank you very much for this brief introduction, Sir Kaldalis. I am sure Sir Hotholion has a word to say in his defence, Pray make your way to the stage and voice your heart.”
> Hotholion Drakonic: “Honourable members of the jury, and your Honour. First, allow me to thank you for giving up your precious time to be here today. I know most of you were forced here because of your commitment to doing the right thing. Have you ever heard of the joke of two fat charity workers who walk into an orphanage? They steal all the food donations for themselves and leave all the orphans to starve! Oh, you're not laughing? Of course not, it's a **rubbish** joke made in poor taste! Yet that *joke* is exactly what this case is. Twisted. Sick. As disgusting as the First Steps Hygiene Rating! And the head clown of this posse that has turned this joke into their catchphrase? He sits right there, trying to squeeze gil out of an honest businessman. Elysium Fight Hall is built off of the backs of volunteers. Together we forged household names into legends, heroes and gods. Yet charities cannot survive off of goodwill alone. It doesn't keep the workers fed, it doesn't keep the fat cat from eating you in your sleep.”
>
>

Hoth points at Kaldalis Daardrendian and then smiles at Kayla Thelbourne. Followed by the booing from the crowd, which Judge quickly intervenes.
> Kayla Thelbourne: “Mister Hotholion, pray keep the matters factual and informative during your next intervention. This is not a theatre, this is a courtroom. We are here to inspect evidence, not judge you on the colourfulness of your play… Mister Kaldaris, I believe you would like to summon forth some manner of reinforcement for your arguments. The stage is yours once more. Mister Kaldaris, I believe you would like to summon forth some manner of reinforcement for your arguments. The stage is yours once more.”
>
>

Kayla attempts her best not to pay any attention to the massive pile of gold that has been surreptitiously and serendipitously deposited by an unnamed member of the court on her and the jury’s desks.
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “To begin with, I would like Master Arturon Satsujin to join for examination-”
>
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> Hotholion Drakonic: “What? That's **my** witness!” he is clearly frustrated by this situation.
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “For the jury, please state your name, sir.”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “Arturon Satsujin your honor.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Master Satsujin, to begin, is it true that you have fought under the Elyisum label numerous times?”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “That is true, so many times I've lost count.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “It is true that Mister Drakonic provides comedy nicknames to his fighters, correct?”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “That is also true yes.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Could you tell me what your nickname is?”
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> Arturon Satsujin: sighs before repeating his nicknames in a somewhat sullen voice "The walking regret, the queen's night, the satsuma, the ashen samurai of a thousand cuts and.... the new queen of Elysium."
>
>

There are different reactions from the crowd. Some people gasping, some laughing, with the Judge trying to silence their chuckle.
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “I would like to bring attention to that last one if you allow. You aren't the first holder of that title, are you?”
>
>
> Arturon Satsujin: “I'm the second holder.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Please, who was the first?”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “That would be my partner Mjern Hyskaris, who sadly is not available to be part of this trial.”
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> Hotholion Drakonic: “Objection your Honour! The witness's dead wife has nothing to do with this case.” he shouts.
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Objection partly sustained, the information is still relevant to understand the background.”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “Objection your honour, she isn't dead!”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Sustained, she isn't dead? Pray explain this at once.”
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> Hotholion Drakonic: “Objection to the objection your honour, the witness is clearly delusional!”
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> Alexandra Rosethorne: “Objection! Your honour, she is missing in action and has been for a long while. Presumed dead. And hasn't been seen or heard since.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Objection to your right to use your mouth for the next 2 minutes, Sir Hotholion.”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “She returned to her home village in the Golmore jungle.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Your honour, may I continue?”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “I see. We shall consider her missing in action, and we shall consider her not involved in the trial, meaning also not involved amongst the plaintiffs. You may continue.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Is it true, sir, that Mister Drakonic has made numerous comments during your fights directed towards the state of living of your partner?”
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> Hotholion Drakonic: “Objection! Leading.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Sustained.”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “That is true, often accompanied by costumes.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Pray do not answer to objected questions, Mister Arturon.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Allow me to rephrase. Has Mister Drakonic made undesirable comments regarding your partner at any time during your time-fighting in Elysium?”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “We have already established that said partner was *not* part of this trial. Sustained.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Your honour, the partner is not included however the answer is important to further advancing the direction of the court.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Pray remember what this trial is about. This is about wage theft and unlawful use of likeness for merchandise unless I am mistaken. The way mister Hotholion conducts himself on his premises is, as far as the law is concerned, not to be taken into account.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “I am reaching that position, your honour. May I continue?”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Please.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Master Satsujin... During your time in Elysium, have you received any injuries?”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “Quite a few, but nothing unexpected and a healer is always on hand as far as I'm aware.”
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> Alexandra Rosethorne: “Objection! Your honour, we are a fight hall. Injuries do happen, but we have taken the necessary precautions for the safety of our fighters!”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Denied. The question was not leading in any way, even though I agree that we all knew the answer already.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Master Satsujin, have you received any form of payment for your time during Elysium?”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “No, payment was never offered.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Never offered or never accepted?”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “Never offered.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Then why are you expecting payment, if I may ask?”
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> Alexandra Rosethorne: “Indeed your honour, that is a good question!”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “No, but I am. Your honour I object, please do not hound my witness during questioning.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Pray observe silence outside of your objections, Miss Alexandra. Then why are you expecting payment if you have been offered none?”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Your honour, it is my time to ask questions.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Answer duly noted. Continue.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Master Satsujin, has Mister Hotholion ever publicised your fights?”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “Not that I know of, I only ever concern myself with the fight itself.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Then your honour, I would ask to enter evidence.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Go ahead.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “I wish to provide this advertisement, published xxx ((IRL date: 11/11/2021)), where it clearly states Arturon Satsujin is fighting.”
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Kayla examines the piece of evidence carefully, making sure that no discrepancy is to be observed.
> Kayla Thelbourne: “Right. Please state your point.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Master Satsujin, you just said you were unaware your fight was publicised, correct?”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “That is true yes.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “You were never offered payment, even for the use of your name?”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “I was not no.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Thank you, no further questions your honour.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Very well, you may both return to your seats. Mister Hotholion, you may... You may proceed.”
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> Hotholion Drakonic: “Mr Queen of Elysium, may I call you Arty? I’ll call you Arty. Why do you fight in Elysium?”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “To improve my skills.”
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> Hotholion Drakonic: “You sign up voluntarily to fight, do you not?”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “I do yes, often right after I finish a fight.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “...you sign up *after* the fight?”
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> Hotholion Drakonic: “Yes your honour, he signs up **immediately** after a fight. For the next event. Anyway…”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Sir Arturon, do you confirm?”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “Yes, I put my name forward for the next event your honour.”
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> Hotholion Drakonic: “And by volunteering, of your own free will, you subject yourself to playful banter and mockery? You literally let the hosts do whatever they want with you and your image?”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Understood.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Leading, your honour. Objection.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Sustained.”
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> Hotholion Drakonic: “Arty, how has your reputation improved upon starting your lustrous career in Elysium? If I recall, you met your late wife there, did you not?” nodded to Arturon.
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Objection, we already discussed the wife's irrelevance.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Sustained. Mister Hoth, please remain factual.”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “I'm not sure, I spend most of my time outside of the major cities.”
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> Hotholion Drakonic: “As a mercenary, you take jobs of all terrible sorts I assume. Has the volume of those offered to you increased since your appearance on Elysium broadcasts?”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “I'm not sure, my work continues to be steady at the very least. Wouldn't you say though, that you have become more well-known as a great fighter though?”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Objection. Drakonic is talking about paying in exposure, which itself is not a form of payment.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Sustained, please remember what this trial is about mister Hotholion.”
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> Hotholion Drakonic: “So you fight for pleasure, volunteering for events that you know you won't get paid for? All for your skills and the fun of the fight?”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Objection. The witness has already stated he was unaware if he was to be paid, not that he would not be paid.”
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> Alexandra Rosethorne: “Objection. None of our fighters have ever asked for payment to begin with!”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Denied, witness please answer the question.”
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> Hotholion Drakonic: “Not for **volunteers!**”
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> Alexandra Rosethorne: “Objection”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Objection. If they are this woman's client then she should be in his position asking questions as his lawyer.”
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> Hotholion Drakonic: “Simple yes or no, Arty.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Mister Hoth, do not influence the witness.”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “As I stated earlier, I fight at Elysium for self-improvement, nothing more or less.”
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> Arturon Satsujin: “Never.”
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> Alexandra Rosethorne: “A legal contract or such? As you said yourselves, you are there for self-improvement.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Your honour, permission to approach you to provide evidence?
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “So there is no liability waiver or anything? Yes, please, provide evidence.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Your honour, this is a *legitimate* acquisition of the First Steps in regards to Mister Drakonic, a forgery. I would ask that all talk of the contract be thrown out due to ineffective evidence in regards to or against.”
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> Hotholion Drakonic: “Objection your honour, it is signed and perfectly legitimate!”
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> Alexandra Rosethorne: “Objection! What does this have to do with contracts or with the witness on the stand?”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Your honour, it is a pawprint, that is not a legitimate way for a Miqo'te to sign a document. The use is of talk of contracts in regards to the conversation just held.”
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> Alexandra Rosethorne: “This *proof* has nothing to do with what we are concerning ourselves with no, hence why the evidence should not matter towards the case.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Thank you for the evidence. While the contract obviously looks like a forgery, and unless the subject signator can testify, it indeed shows that falsification is within the playbook of the defendant. However, this has nothing to do with the case at hand, since there is -no- contract to be considered in the first place.”
>
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The owner of the said place gets up and says “Hey wait what?!” with some of the crowd chuckling at him.
> Hotholion Drakonic: “No further questions your honour.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Please call me if you need me for that case though. I'm free Monday to Friday, from 17 to 21. And I accept snacks and bars of gold as payment. Not as bribery, as payment. Do you still have questions, Miss Alexandra?”
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> Alexandra Rosethorne: “No further questions for this said witness.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Would you have another witness to summon forth?”
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> Alexandra Rosethorne: “Yes your honour.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Then proceed. Thank you for your time, mister Arturon. Although for the sake of fairness, I believe it would be best if Sir Kaldalis would summon his own witness.”
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “I would ask for Mis'to Raesthe to approach, your honour.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Mister Mis'to, you may approach.”
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> Hotholion Drakonic: “Objection your honour! The witness is clearly old, senile and lost!”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “Denied. Hotholion, you may keep your tongue locked within your mouth for the next 5 minutes, for the sake of everyone involved.”
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> Alexandra Rosethorne: “The defence apologies for the client.”
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> Kayla Thelbourne: “The defence is kindly asked to remain quiet unless any form of constructive comment can be produced.”
>
>

Hotholion Drakonic sulks. Mis'to Raesthe bows courteously to Kayla Thelbourne.
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “For the record, please state your full name.”
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: “Second son of Mis, born of clan Raesthe, sired of the Tayuun.”
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Master Mis'to, you once fought numerous times in Elysium, is that correct?”
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: “T'is correct, aye.”
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Can you tell me why you stopped?”
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: “...Started t'have my doubts as t'what was going on. Like the man afore me, I was glad t'have somewhere to test my skill an' meet like-minded warriors; and then they'd started fieldin' people what'd do some gimmicky shite like throwing their shoes at you or smackin' y'over the head with a broom or what not. Also y'can only take bein' called deaf an' senile so much eh?”
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Would you object to the notion that Elysium is a serious fighting institution?”
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: “Heartily.”
>
>
> Alexandra Rosethorne: “Objection. What does the seriosity of the hall have to do with the case and my client?”
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: “Too late.”
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Your honour, once again I am setting the foundation.”
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: “Carry on.”
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: “Master Mis'to, would you classify yourself as a well-known individual?”
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "....Dunno if I'd be so arrogant t'say that but I figure most folks know my name aye."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "What reason would you be well known for?"
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe thinks for a second. "...Probably fer the First Steps, **my** place fer new an' old adventurers alike t'share their skills an' knowledge with each other. Maybe some of my swordsmanship an' exploits too aye...."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic "stifles a laugh. Mis'to Raesthe furrows his brow at Hotholion Drakonic."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Thank you. Has your swordsmanship been put on display in Elysium?"
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "Many a time. Kinda got known fer me losing streaks."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Objection, your honour! The witness is clearly biased because he is a loser!"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Your honour, even if he is a loser he is still a witness that the Defence themselves would call upon."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "You do not even need to justify this rejection, sir Kaldalis. It is obviously rejected."
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "Tch, win or lose, ain't the point of the fight eh?"
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Some may disagree, but that is not the point at hand."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Unfortunate, surely. How Master Mis'to, to cut quickly, do you believe Mister Drakonic would have benefitted from your name and fights?"
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "Considerin' the number of times he's tried t'take the Steps off me I'd absolutely believe he'd try!"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "And has the suggestion of payment ever been brought up by Mister Drakonic?"
>
>
> Alexandra Rosethorne: "Objection. My client taking over the steps has nothing to do with the witnesses’ fights."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Sustained."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Your honour, that is not the point of the question nor the answer."
>
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Then why did you ask this question?"
>
>

Hotholion Drakonic claps.
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Because, your honour, I was asking if the witness believed Drakonic would benefit from the Witness fighting. The answer was yes."
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "Aye an' I explained why I'd believe it."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Then the answer has been provided, and the First Steps case is to be left outside of this here room, for the time being."
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe mumbles *"Just you wait y'overgrown golden lizard."*. Meanwhile at the defendant's table;
>
>
> Alexandra Rosethorne: "...we may need to prepare a stronger defence in that case for you Hoth."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "It's fine, the jury is already pocketing the gold bars."
>
>
> Alexandra Rosethorne: "I noticed."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "If he had done so, would you expect payment for your renown and name being used for his benefit?"
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "...I'd expect to be *asked* if I'd be willin' to have me name an' renown used to line his pockets, aye."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Did he ever ask?"
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "No."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Did *you* ever ask?"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Thank you, your honour I have no further questions."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Your venue, the First Steps, acts as a charity, correct? Do you have volunteers working the kitchens and accepting donations from local businesses? What’s your favourite noodle dish?"
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "Ain't that like, three questions?"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection. We have already discussed that the First Steps are not important to this case."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Sustained. Mister Hoth, I will say this only once more: so long as your body, to which your ego is unfortunately bound, stands within this courtroom, you will do us the courtesy of keeping your theatrics to a minimum, and only use the strictly necessary amount of words and superlatives to describe the facts in a reasonable and informative way."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Your honour, I'm building a foundation."
>
>
> Alexandra Rosethorne: "Clarification We're building a foundation here, as did the others previously."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "You are building the foundation for another court case incriminating you, for which I would not be particularly proud of if I were you. We are currently discussing the Elysium Fight Hall, and *only* this."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection. I see no use for the question regarding the Witness' favourite noodles in this case."
>
>
> Alexandra Rosethorne: "Then clarification: The steps is a non-profit organization, yes?"
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "I thought we weren't talkin' about the Steps eh."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "It's relevant."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "I disagree, but in the absence of an objection, I shall see it proceed."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Because we have to talk about the First Steps as, as described in the evidence, it is a vital partner of Elysium Fight Hall, is that not correct?"
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "...Fer a little while."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "I constantly advertise your venue, do I not? For free?"
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "Can't say I remember the last time..."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Oh, believe me, I do it all. The. Time."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection. Exposure, as stated, is not a form of payment."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Denied. Exposure was not implied within the bounds of the Elysium Fight Hall."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "As you are a business partner, you are entitled to advertisement throughout Elysium's duration."
>
>
> Alexandra Rosethorne: "We do have records of the previous fights, which even some people who are here listening and watching can attest to, that yes, the defendant does indeed advertise the venue for free."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection. Stating evidence that has not yet been provided, this is a time for questions only."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Sustained. Please state your question."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Mr. Mis'to, would you pay your volunteers?"
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "I share out the tips we get, aye."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Does Elysium accept payment from anyone?"
>
>
> Alexandra Rosethorne: "Can tips be counted as actual payment?"
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Please ask questions once at a time, please."
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe’s ears go back. "Can't say I ever offered Elysium payment to see if they'd accept it eh."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Do you think Hoth, aka me, would accept payment if you offered it?"
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "Yes."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Objection your honour, I don't need to accept payment."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Objecting yourself, are you?"
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "Y'can't object to a bloody opinion!"
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "I can if it's a stupid opinion!"
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "You asked the question, and the answer shall be documented."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection to the objection... Hotholion should not be objecting to something only he knows the answer to."
>
>
> Alexandra Rosethorne: "Then continuing with asking about your name usage. Has anyone else asked your permission before in the case of using your name?"
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "No. Never fought in Ul'dah, fer one."
>
>
> Alexandra Rosethorne: "And this is your honour where I'd like to present some evidence."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Bring it forward."
>
>
> Alexandra Rosethorne brings out the document concerning the doll Mis'to. "As we can see here, his name has been used before, in merchandise by another person."
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe is taken aback by Alexandra Rosethorne. "....W-wait, that bloody thing-?!"
>
>
> Alexandra Rosethorne: "And... the owner of said doll." takes a short break "Kaldalis!"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection. The question was if he was asked for his permission, not if he knew his name was used."
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "...I thought Kieo had it..."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Denied. I've lost track of where the argument is supposed to go, so I would like to see what the end point is."
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "Yer honor, what I'd tell you is I never gave permission to Ramen fer that doll either."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Your honour, I'm calling for a mistrial because the prosecution has a financial interest in the result of the case."
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "An' if Kal 'ere's been making more of the ruddy things I didn't give permission fer that either!"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Your honour, I oppose that call as I have no financial stake. Nowhere in the listing for finances has my name been placed, even my position as the judge is down freely without payment."
>
>
> Alexandra Rosethorne: "The point of this case is, the witnesses' claims cannot be taken into account since they do not of said case either. They clearly have no hold over who has used their name and for what. Meanwhile, Elysium actually had a deal with the steps which the witness holds."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "The financial interest is not part of this trial, and it will be left out of it. As for Mister Mis'to, you are free to file a new trial for damage to your image due to this disgraceful, although unfortunately lawful, show of evidence."
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe nods to Kayla Thelbourne. "Personally ma'am I'm more concerned with the Steps, but I'll bear that in mind."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Rest assured that whatever has been said within this court has reached my ears, and has been stored in my mind."
>
>
> Alexandra Rosethorne: "In the same way as with the previous witness, they came to fight for their own betterment, even if it did go south."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Not our fault the witness is only good at adoptions and not winning fights."
>
>
> Alexandra Rosethorne: "So, their name had not ever been used to richen the pockets of my client."
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "I win the ones that count."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Your honour, permission to treat the witness as hostile!"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection. Your honour, I would ask for the questioning of the witness to come to an end as the defendant is insulting and aggravating the witness unnecessarily."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Sustained. I see no proof here, only an isolated say-so from a witness obviously put under pressure by two attorneys with a loaded agenda."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "No further questions."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "You may regain your seat, Thank you for your time mister Mis'to."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Your honour, next witness?"
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Go right ahead."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Navka Dustreaver and I would ask for the witness to be considered hostile due to their already aggressive comments."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Your honour, I completely agree."
>
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "I would ask for a security agent to stand guard between them, but since we do not have any..."
>
>

Mittens the bailiff prepares to take down Navka if necessary.
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "First, once again, your name for the record, please. You have fought in Elysium numerous times, correct?"
>
>
> Navka Dustreaver: "Multiple times, that is a fact, yes."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "During that time, do you believe you were placed against far stronger opponents than yourself for entertainment?"
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Thank you, mister, However, I shall only accept certified security agents up there, and no vigilante serviceman, no matter how good your intentions may be."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Objection to the witness your honour, she has clearly put on weight to gain a higher payout if she were to win this court case since she expects to be paid her weight in gold bars. Clearly biased and therefore not suitable for standing as a witness."
>
>
> Navka Dustreaver: "I... do believe that was the case most of the time-..."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Your honour, need I state the reasons that's a bad objection?"
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Denied, mister Hotholion pray do not waste our time."
>
>
> Navka Dustreaver is annoyed with Hotholion Drakonic.
>
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Lady Dustreaver, has your name ever been used to publicise the fighting hall?"
>
>

Navka Dustreaver gazes upon Kaldalis Daardrendian in deep reflection. "I believe it was on at least one occasion, with extra slander to it."
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Were you ever paid for such a time?"
>
>
> Navka Dustreaver: "I was not, of course. Even if I were offered, I wouldn't allow for my name to be used in a fashion that belittles it."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Objection your honour, there is no way anyone's health or life is at risk, Elysium takes preventative measures and has never once lost a fighter."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "That is correct, your honour."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "The witness is clearly lying under oath. She should be charged with perjury and escorted to the gaol in Room 1."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Your honour, there was no chance for an oath to be given."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Denied. The perceived risk and actual risk need to be taken into account when considering one's mental state, and the impact it has on their body. Besides, double-rejected. No oath was given indeed."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Lady Dustreaver. Would you say that during your time at Elysium, you have been affected mentally by either the perceived risk or by the unwanted comments made by Mister Drakonic?"
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Objection your honour, leading!"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Your honour, leading allowed, this witness is hostile."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Denied."
>
>
> Navka Dustreaver: "That is correct, In fact, Mister Drakonic didn't even have the tact to wait for his remarks till the end of my duel, directly taking away my attention and affecting my mental fortitude on the spot. You could call it a handicap. It has happened multiple times."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "And not once did Mister Drakonic offer compensation or even pay for any therapeutic help?"
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Objection again your honour, the witness knew what she was signing up for."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Your honour, perceived knowing and actual knowing are different."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "We knew that too, therefore the question is not leading. Rejected."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Lady Dustreaver, please answer my question."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Unwritten rules are by nature unwritten, and are thus not exhaustive. Objection rejected, please stay in your lane, Miss Navka."
>
>
> Navka Dustreaver: "Yes, back to Mister Kaldalis' question. Mister Drakonic did not offer compensation for the things he said and the therapeutic help of any kind wasn't mentioned. Any gil or prizes were part of the occurring events and I received them fairly. They were not related to compensation."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "My final question. Lady Dustreaver, you have to actively work to pay your bills, I presume? Has fighting at Elysium ever made that difficult due to working without payment?"
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Objection your honour! Elysium is based on volunteers, prosecution is trying to paint the witness as a paid employee when she clearly is not."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Sustained."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Your honour, the topic of the case is whether they should be paid or not."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Incorrect. You find yourself in a court of law, where only descriptive facts are to be studied, not prescriptive assumptions."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Then I have no further questions, Your Honour."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Miss Navka, do you know if any of your peers has EVER asked to be paid for their time in Elysium?"
>
>
> Navka Dustreaver: "I do not recall such implications among my peers, directly or indirectly."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "So you and your peers are all VOLUNTEERS?"
>
>
> Navka Dustreaver disagrees with Hotholion Drakonic. "The term was never once used up until this case so I would say, no."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "But you sign up for free to fight for show?" Is that not the definition of volunteering?"
>
>
> Navka Dustreaver: "It could be viewed like this, yes, however, the amount of extra weight put on the so-called volunteers by mister Hotholion greatly outweighs it, I believe...?"
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "A volunteer is a volunteer."
>
>
> Navka Dustreaver: "We ‘volunteer’ to fight for free, not to be laughed upon and put through the gutter for the host's amusement.”
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Yet you do so, continuously. You willingly subject yourself to this ‘torture’. Actually, speaking of what you've done in Elysium, you're also known for never leaving your gun at home. Is this gun on you now?"
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Unfortunately I may clarify things for you, but I cannot allow you to ask questions, since you do not have permission to do so under due protocol."
>
>
> Navka Dustreaver: "I will take my right to not answer that."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Right upheld, this was a private question."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Bailiff Mittens, please escort Miss Navka to gaol because she is clearly a threat to the court as a hostile witness. Therefore her testimony should be struck off!"
>
>
> Navka Dustreaver: "Back to my testimony, your Honour! I consider myself a person with an open heart, turning the other cheek to others and giving them a chance. Mister Hotholion did not improve his behaviour despite my remarks and multiple chances, which is why this case is a thing."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Bailiff, belay that order."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "NO FURTHER QUESTIONS."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection. Simply because she carries a weapon is not a threat, Master Satsujin also carried a weapon and the Defence had no issue with that."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Thank you for your time, you have been heard. Please head back to your seat."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Your honour, I'd like to call Ria Duskwind, the expert to the stand."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection. Ria Duskwind is my adopted daughter, she should not be allowed to take part as she cannot be easily unbiased."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Objection to that objection, Kal is related to everyone."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Thank you for your concern, we will take it into account as we hear her out."
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "I can and will be unbiased. Court is about the truth, and I shall only answer truthfully, as is my oath as a hunter."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Please state your name and occupation for the jury."
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "My name is Ria Duskwind, I'm the leader of the Celestial Arrows."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "You have fought in Elysium before, no?"
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "I have."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Would you say you've suffered from not being a paid employee at Elysium?"
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "I've not suffered at all. I have my own occupation and don't expect to get paid for something I see as an occasional voluntary hobby."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Would you say the defendant has a reputation for being a foul-mouthed lunatic with more gil than sense?"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection, leading."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Sustained."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Do you know what you sign up for when you volunteer for Elysium?"
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "As far as I've always been aware, I'm fighting up for a one-on-one battle in a controlled environment with spectators, and the option to have any wounds healed after the battle has conceded."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Would you say others would be in your same position if they signed up for the Next Elysium?"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection. That is discussions of the unknown future."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Sustained."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "As a volunteer fighter, what happens when you sign up?"
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "I think the answer is subjective to a person's experience with the fight hall. I'd witnessed the arena before signing up and therefore knew to expect the occasional abuse, dodgy nicknames and lack of payment. When I did sign up, I knew there'd be no forward payment, nor was payment ever discussed between myself and the staff at Elysium. When I witnessed Hoth signing up others, there was no discussion of payment from either side, therefore invalidating any necessity for payment. Of course, I can only speak from experience."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Ms Ria, just to clarify, you are aware that your fights are broadcast to a large audience and therefore subjected to commercial breaks?"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection, leading."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: “Denied.”
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "I am aware, and have had my own venue advertised in turn during some of these commercial breaks."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "At any point has Elysium demanded payment from you for these advertisements?"
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "It has not."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "No further questions your honour."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Lady Duskwind, for the court please state your relation to me."
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "Adoptive daughter of Kaldalis."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Thank you, Lady Duskwind, you said that you can be unbiased, how can this be?"
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Objection your honour, the prosecution is pressuring the witness. Using familial ties."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Sustained. Correlation is not equal causation, the question has no purpose."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Incorrect your honour, this question has a standing related to the Witness' ability to be considered truthful."
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "Because if I were to lie in contempt of court, I'd lose my seat of leader for my establishment. I have friends and those whom I consider family amongst my guild and therefore must be fair among all I deal with regard to anything related to professionalism. You are more than welcome to call others to the stand to bear witness to my ability to be truthful."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Whatever answer we receive is guaranteed to be non-factual, and just as biased as the question is. In the absence of a deeper understanding of the complex relationships woven between you, we will not be having this discussion here."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic delivers a confident smirk.
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Then allow me to ask a separate question. Lady Duskwind, does your financial situation require income from Elysium? Is that the same for everybody who fights in Elysium?"
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "I'm unable to answer the question as I don't know the individual's circumstances."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "In prior questioning you mentioned that the understanding of Elysium's entailment is subjective, correct?"
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "Correct, when recruiting the full list of rules isn't specifically given verbally, but in the infographic, Elysium has to advertise their venue, as well as within the confines of the establishment, the rules and guidelines are clearly printed for others to read."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "The rules aren't handed to somebody when they sign up to fight?"
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "As with all contracts and rules, it's the responsibility of whoever is in attendance, carrying out any kind of work or task to familiarise themselves with the rules they engage within their environment. The penalties for the breach of said rules remain the same, whether read or not."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Your honour, I would ask for the witness to answer the question again succinctly, what they gave as an answer is not in fact related to the question."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Gray zone, but not incorrect. Proceed."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Once again Ria, are the rules given to somebody when they sign up?"
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "Then I'll answer in a more forward manner. The rules are there, people have the opportunity to read them or ask others to give them the rules, it's there in front of you when you walk in. You can make accommodations for others to read them for you. In the same way that the rules are available for people to read when entering any establishment, I would argue that they are presented in a way they can read them before they fight. Or have the rules explained to them."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Your honour, once again the witness has refused to simply answer the question. Permission to treat them as hostile?"
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "My answer is basically *yes*, to narrow it down."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Objection your honour, the prosecution is being salty his daughter isn't listening to Daddy."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Denied. The participants' responsibility when engaging in any activity, in particular one involving weapons, must be considered as explicitly present."
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "Your honour, they are given the opportunity. At no point are the rules withheld."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "You mean to say that there is no obligation or incentive to subscribe or to sign the rules?"
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "I mean to say that everywhere has rules. Countries, cities and establishments. We are all obligated to subscribe to the rules when we enter another person's space, and it's our responsibility to abide by those rules presented to us, so long as they're displayed in a manner of speaking in a clear format."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Lady Duskwind, if somebody is not aware of Elysium and has been signed up, do you know if they have an opportunity between being approached by Mister Drakonic to be signed up and entering Elysium during their time of fighting to read the rules if they are not directly given during the moment of sign up?"
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "None is supposed to ignore the law, wherever they are. You are correct."
>
>
> Ria Duskwind: "Yes, there are advertisements with a clear 'rules' section given out before the venue opens."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "No further questions, your honour."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Thank you, Miss Ria. You may sit."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Your honour, I'd like to call Kaldalis to the stand."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Your honour would begin by suggesting this dubious, but I cannot find a reason to object?"
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "A surprise, to be sure. In the absence of any further attorney, I shall object myself if any questions require it.""
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Your honour, the plaintiff stands the most to gain from the results of this case."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Do not attempt to make me believe that you do not stand to gain anything. You may find more gullible judges in other courtrooms."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Kaldalis. Did you purchase Elysium-related merchandise from Ramen Samurai?"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "I did indeed, I believe twice."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Did you, or anyone you know, sign up to Elysium once again after knowingly not getting paid, and knowing the rules and circumstances of the venue, without discussion of payment?"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection your honour, at least for the first section. I am rich, I would not have needed payment."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Sustained. Please focus your answer on yourself, and nobody else."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "For myself, yes."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Are you aware of your win/loss record in Elysium?"
>
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "I am not, no."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Are you sure? Even though you have been constantly signing up to fight? You aren't aware of your own results?"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "I am not aware, no."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Are you aware that anyone can access the records by simply requesting them from the Elysium-related library and even in this courthouse?"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "I am aware of that, yes."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "So surely if you had prepared yourself properly, you should have been aware of your win/loss record?"
>
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "My win/loss record is not related to the trial."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Oh but it is!"
>
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> Kayla Thelbourne: "Pray skip to the point, mister Hotholion."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "According to Kal's records… He has **lost** more than he has won in Elysium."
>
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "That would make sense, my fighting style is not appropriate for Elysium's ruleset."
>
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> Hotholion Drakonic: "So can you say, with 100% certainty, that you have never been harbouring a sore spot or vendetta against Elysium because of your repeated losses?"
>
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> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "I can say truthfully that I have never held any sore spot or vendetta against Elysium due to my repeated losses, as I do not even fight in Elysium to improve myself. It is sport to me."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Do you harbour resentment against your nickname?"
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Yes, because it was suggested by the mother of a member of the Jury due to it being a personal, private nickname she once used."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "No further questions your honour."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "...Can I cross-examine myself?"
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Within the confines of your own mind, yes, you shall, and you should."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Your honour, my next witness could not make it, but he has prepared a statement to be read out."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "**Another one**? Well... there is no rule against it, so... please go ahead. Mind the clock, please."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Then I would object to my taking place as a witness as the prosecution is not allowed to cross-examine them."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Your records can be crossed from our documents, but your words cannot be crossed from our memories. You may go back to your seat."
>
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Thank you."
>
>

Hotholion Drakonic starts reading a letter written by Ramen Freewind. In there, it says:

```
"Greetings, esteemed members of the Jury. My name is Ramen Freewind, and I have been asked by an independent party to produce a witness statement to be read at the proceedings today, which I am unfortunately unable to attend due to business-related reasons. And yet, something compels me to speak in his favour. Perhaps it's the fact that I too am familiar with the vicissitudes brought about by fame and pioneering, such as baseless rumours, blatant defamation and sometimes legal battles, many of them brewed by business enemies instead of actual cause. I strongly believe this is such an occasion, for I have no knowledge of Mister Drakonic breaking nor bending any laws, local or international. And speaking of illegality, if you allow me the digression, dear Jury... what should be illegal is how long and hard you work to keep us all safe from crime. With summer coming to an end, you must be wondering whether it's going to be another year without a proper vacation. To which I say: not if I can help it! R.A.M.E.N.S. Airlines presents... Shimojima Resort is the place for your ideal holidays! Everyone in the courtroom, please check under your seat… and you will find a brochure with all the information you need, as well as a linkpearl to place a reservation with our gob-agents!"

```

The crowd seems to be dumbfounded by Ramen’s advertising on his own witness statement.
> Kayla Thelbourne: "This testimony is unacceptable. Only present witnesses may speak for themselves, hearsay through unproven written means cannot be tolerated. These records will not be carried over to our documents."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "You are welcome to verify with the court and ask the witness himself."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Denied, inappropriate protocol."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "He has signed it."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Now I'd like to call up my next witness please."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Pray call forth your next witness."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Your honour, I'd like to call Mittens."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "You are beginning to strain our patience, mister Hotholion. Choose your next words carefully."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection. Mittens is a known employee and accomplice to Mister Drakonic that has been proven to lie in the past in favour of Drakonic Incorporated."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Mittens Drakonic, please state your occupation within Hoth Quality Universal. Objection to the objection, the witness is a cat and does not understand what a lie is."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Objection denied. Witnesses shall be heard."
>
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection to the objection. The witness is a cat."
>
>

Mittens is the accountant, vice president and future overlord of the world. He "meows" in response.
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Thank you Mittens."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection. I am fluent in many languages and I don't understand that cat, he requires a translator that is not Mister Drakonic himself."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Objection denied, in the absence of any certified and official translator, we must make do with mister Hotholion, and remember that the words he conveys may be biased."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "In the absence of a certified translator, surely he should not be a witness?"
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "As the accountant to Hoth Quality Universal, can you please point out any paid employees of Elysium Fight Hall other than yourself?"
>
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Mister Hotholion is a certified translator. Besides, I believe an echo wielder to be even harder to find spontaneously than a cat translator."
>
>

Mittens meow and rollover. There is no one here who has been or will be paid because they are not edible Elysium employees.
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Mittens, do you have gifts for the audience and the jury?"
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Mister Mis'to, may I rely on you to confirm or object to Mister Hotholion's translation of the witness?"
>
>
> “Mittens has nine Fat Cats to give away to people in the court! If you don't have one, present yourself to Hoth or Mittens for a free clone of Mittens!”
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection, bribery and obvious at that. This Witness has been nothing but a hassle, surely now you must agree they must be removed from their position due to."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Mister, could you please provide the same service?"
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Objection to the objection, the witness is too fat to be moved."
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "Assumin' the court accepts it aye. I swear on my honour as a Raesthe t'speak as ...the cat does." mumbles to himself. "...I can't feckin' believe I'm doin' this."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "What a surprise to find oneself in the presence of two echo readers in such a small audience... but we shall make the best out of it."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Your honour, I must object in such a fashion as to suggest this witness is unsuitable entirely."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Mittens, your war crimes aside, you have been known to treat everyone equally except perhaps with the exception of your secret lover, Arkana Grey?"
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "And... you all fought in the Elysium Fight Hall, despite being gifted with an Echo, which would have surely allowed you to detect any ill intent from Mister Hotholion before any such problem came to fruition?"
>
>
> Kieo Exodin: "Exactly, your honour."
>
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Objection, this witness is a war criminal."
>
>

Mittens meow with a low grumble. He treats everyone with the exact same cat disdain.
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Disappointing. I must call your powers into question, however, this is neither the time nor the place. Also, objection Sustained."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Your honour, this is not a suitable witness and by now you well know it."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Hey! Mittens is not on trial here!"
>
>
> Mis'to Raesthe: "...Hrmm. The Echo shares intent, aye, but I wouldn't call it reliable at pickin' out lies or nuance..."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Alright, out with this witness, enough of this farce. Let us move on to more serious and factual matters."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Thank you, your honour."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Your honour, how would you explain **your** gift behind you?" points at the fat cat.
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "My **gift** has the outstanding quality of being ***silent***, which is **much** more than some can pretend."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "I have one last question for Mittens."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "There are no more questions to be asked, the witness has been removed from their position Hotholion."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "He demands to be heard or he will mutilate what is left of the prosecution's genitals."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "He will be shot before he can muster the slightest ill intent. Pray remember that we have no less than *three* Echo readers."
>
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Your honour, my genitals will survive. Remove the witness."
>
>

Mittens lunges at Kaldalis Daardrendian and they start brawling in the middle of the courtroom.
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Your honour, as you can see now, Kaldalis has badgered the witness too much. He is not fit for trial anymore. I guess I have no further questions."
>
>

Kayla stands up, and inhales loudly, before yelling as loud as she can "ENOUGH!".
Still fighting mittens, Kaldalis Daardrendian: "I would politely- ouch- Remind Mister Drakonic- ouch- that his words are going to be used against him!"
> Kayla Thelbourne: "**I WILL SEE YOU ALL REGAIN YOUR SEATS, OR DRAG YOU THERE MYSELF!** This counts for the cat too. What a travesty. How utterly despicable. No respect for the law."
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Your honour I object, you still have a selection of gold bars right next to you and a gift from a witness."
>
>
> Kaldalis Daardrendian: "Hotholion you are in no place to object now. He says, a hand cradling between his legs..."
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Thank you to every participant in this long trial, I believe we have heard enough. It is now time for the jury and myself to deliberate.". She invites the jury to the backroom to discuss the case. After some time spent discussing, the jury and the judge sit back in their seats.
>
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "The verdict is out, and the jury is unanimous. "The pay that an institution owes to its employees needs to be proactively and explicitly secured by means of a contract. In the absence of any such contract to be presented to us, we must conclude that mister Hotholion is free to do with the funds that his venue receives, as he sees fit. As such, the plaintiffs, no matter how bitter they may be due to this situation, find themselves with no legal rights to pursue Mister Hotholion and his many organisations for unlawful wage theft."
>
>

Hotholion Drakonic lets out a cheer.
> Kayla Thelbourne: "On the other hand, use of one's likeness and identity for for-profit ends requires an implicit agreement from the involved party, and we can but deduce that there was none provided to the defendant. The volunteers did not volunteer to their identity being used, therefore the defendant has been found guilty of unauthorised and discriminatory usage of several people’s identity."
>
>

Hotholion Drakonic looks shocked.
Kaldalis Daardrendian: "You cheered too early, Hotholion."
> Kayla Thelbourne: "Under the rule of law set in place under the Eorzean Grand Alliance, this falls under the purviews of criminal law, as defined by the latest works of Sumano Suramano et al., of the Supreme Ul’dahn Court, as approved in year 8 of the current era. Article 117 paragraph 3 is quite limpid on the topic. While an isolated offence requires a simple fine of up to 2 million Gils, repeated offence (such as is the case in the present case), requires up to 35 million Gils and up to 10 years in prison, along with a retroactive AND proactive compensation of all the involved individuals for the sales of the business of up to 50% of the associated products’ cost. And so to conclude this trial, here is the decision of the jury: "For the multiple counts of unlawful wage thefts, conducted by Mister Hotholion in the scope of his organisation, the Elysium Fight Hall, we find the defendant not guilty. For the multiple counts of unauthorized use of someone else’s identity for business purposes, we find the defendant guilty. The final sentence shall be discussed and communicated at a later date"
>
>
> Hotholion Drakonic: "Ugh. Now I'm going to have to settle out of court."
>
>
>
> Kayla Thelbourne: "For the multiple counts of attempts at bribery, contempt of court, assault on another witness and various minor infractions to the law that have taken place today within this court, the defendant, Mister Hotholion is found guilty and will suffer extreme prejudices as defined by the law. The court is dismissed. Thank you everyone for attending."
>
>