Next day Journalists, foreign diplomats, and Parisian citizens crowded into the grand chamber, all eyes focused on the central dock where Léon Blum, former Prime Minister stood.
At the same as yesterday Barbier, Claudel, and Levasseur entered.
Barbier leaned forward.
"We reconvene again, under Articles 14, 15, and 17 of the Emergency Judicial Order of 1937 and applicable military judicial statutes, this Tribunal begins hearing testimony for Citizen Léon Blum, the former Prime Minister of the French Republic. The charges allege neglect of duty through internal obstruction hindering critical military and technological development, partisan bias within military appointments, and the infusion of politically driven actors into state policy, undermining our national sovereignty."
Blum inclined his head slightly.
His lawyer, Jules Rancourt, remained silent for now.
Vincent Auriol rose, stepping forward.
