There was a large, collective gasp from the Courtroom as Judge Michael Buttbottom clutched his chest, and died at his bench.
Clair drew in a breath through her teeth, wincing. "Well shoot. That's not good..."
She turned to the courtroom, singling out Du with a desperate, pleading expression. "You!!!" Clair clasped her hands, and The Bailiff grabbed Du, all but dragging them to Clair. "You've gotta help us," Clair cried, "Look, okay - I'm a lawyer, Clair Eyfai. You're the Emergency Judge, so basically - You're in charge now. I know it's a lot of pressure, but I'll help you every step of the way!!"
The Bailiff put a large, black uniform over Du and forced a gavel into their hand. All the while, two men hauled Judge Buttbottom to a backroom.
Clair turned to Du with the same pleading expression, "Okay, trooper! Head on up to the bench--!" The Bailiff picked Du up, setting them in the judge's bench before the courtroom. Clair took a seat beside Du, whispering, "Okay - Arraignment is about to begin. Just... look professional! If you have any questions, just ask! To start say: 'Next case'!"
