Raising My Trash Ability into a Broken SSS+ Rank Skill Chapter 741  The Criminal Lawyer

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Previously on Raising My Trash Ability into a Broken SSS+ Rank Skill...
Vritra steps in to defend himself against accusations leveled by the arrogant lawyer PetoPhil, who represents the gods. PetoPhil presents a case detailing Vritra's group's alleged crimes during a game, demanding the harshest punishment. However, the judge, Evelyn, seems to favor Vritra, and the gods reveal Vritra's true identity as the 'Divine', a threat they wish to eliminate. Vritra counters by presenting Asmodeus as a witness, who claims the gods interfered. As Evelyn moves to pass judgment, PetoPhil interrupts and demands to question Asmodeus, who falters under PetoPhil's scrutiny and is exposed as having been abducted.

"I- I was merely jesting, that means nothing-" Asmodeus attempted to concoct an excuse, but he was no match for the skilled lawyer.

"So you engage in role-play, pretending to be kidnapped by individuals you've just encountered? That's a rather peculiar pastime. You are free to depart now; thank you for your time."

With a broad grin, PetoPhil voiced his conclusion. He had effectively made his point, and the hushed murmurs in the room indicated that everyone present had grasped his meaning.

"Impressive!" exclaimed one of the gods, clearly pleased with their choice of legal representation.

"So, we cannot accept Asmodeus as a legal witness. Do you have any further proof to corroborate your claims?" Evelyn inquired, her tone laced with evident irritation.

"…Indeed, I do." Vritra pondered for a moment before nodding in affirmation.

"Excellent. Given that you possess sufficient evidence, I declare you the victor of this-" Evelyn started to deliver her verdict swiftly, only to be interrupted once more.

"W- Wait, Madam, he hasn't presented any evidence yet." PetoPhil felt on the verge of losing his composure, utterly bewildered by the proceedings.

Was he the one acting unreasonably?

"Hey, come here!" a god urgently called out, prompting the befuddled PetoPhil to finally approach them.

"What is it? Why do you keep interrupting me? This trial is reaching a critical juncture. If you continue to disrupt, I will lose my focus and jeopardize the entire case." PetoPhil issued a stern warning.

"No, there is something crucial you must be aware of. It will ensure our victory with ease and result in an even more severe punishment for Vritra." The rope god stated, his voice calm yet tinged with excitement.

"Oh? Hurry, what is it?" he asked impatiently. PetoPhil now felt an overwhelming urge to win this trial at all costs.

"Vritra has a direct connection to the Divine, and we have ample evidence to substantiate this claim. It was the Divine who dispatched them to this location." The book god promptly shared the vital information.

This revelation instilled immense confidence in PetoPhil. Now, he wouldn't even need to present his own proof; these individuals were already deemed criminals.

"That's absolutely perfect! Hand over the video and any other evidence, and I shall secure this trial for us!" PetoPhil declared, extending his hand.

The gods exchanged glances, a flicker of hesitation crossing their faces, but their desire for victory compelled them. Reluctantly, they passed the video and other evidence to their lawyer.

"Apologies for the delay, esteemed Madam. I have just received critical intelligence—information that will unequivocally establish their guilt as criminals."

Upon hearing this, a fresh wave of murmurs erupted among the onlookers. The trial's constant influx of new twists and turns kept everyone thoroughly engaged and captivated.

"Proceed," Evelyn commanded, her gaze sharp, as she anticipated the unfolding events.

PetoPhil executed a bow and produced several pieces of evidence. With these, he was certain he could easily demonstrate the link between the Divine and the ten individuals.

The items floated towards Evelyn but first passed through the hands of the man in black attire.

"Hmm, we are unable to utilize this evidence for reasons that cannot be disclosed to you. However, we can play the video." the man in black stated, swiftly destroying the evidence.

"Wai-" PetoPhil was momentarily stunned. This was becoming far too conspicuous. He let out a sigh; at least the video remained.

"Play it," Evelyn instructed, leaning back. Her blonde hair cascaded gracefully against her fair cheeks, her ethereal beauty captivating every man present.

"Let us engage in a game…" The video commenced, depicting a character disrespecting the gods and even engaging in physical altercations, culminating in their heads exploding.

"This is outrageous!" Evelyn feigned shock as she watched the footage.

"How dare you conceal the fact that you encountered the criminal Divine and that he absconded with something of such paramount importance! All ten gods shall be incarcerated in the world prison for one month, subjected to at least one hundred lashes daily!!" Evelyn proclaimed in feigned fury, penning her judgment.

The spectators, having witnessed the video, began to openly mock the gods, many erupting into laughter.

Meanwhile, PetoPhil remained utterly perplexed. How was he winning, possessing all the evidence, yet the opposing side was the one facing relentless punishment?

"B- But Honorable M-" PetoPhil attempted to interject.

"What? Do you intend to challenge my ruling? You, too, shall be included in this punishment. Do you have any further relevant evidence pertaining to the case, or shall I proceed with my final judgment?" Evelyn declared, her voice clear and resounding.

"Very well, I shall present the irrefutable evidence and demonstrate that these individuals have corrupted the game and deserve stringent punishment." PetoPhil resolved to deploy his most potent strategy.

"Vritra, would you be so kind as to step forward? I have a few questions for you." PetoPhil asked politely.

"I decline." Vritra refused outright.

"Huh?" PetoPhil wondered if he had misheard. Refusal was not an option in a court trial.

Would such defiance not simply be interpreted as an admission of guilt and an attempt to obstruct justice?

"…" With a peculiar expression, he glanced at Evelyn, certain she shared his bewilderment.

"It's alright since he doesn't feel comfortable with it, do you have anything else?" Evelyn inquired.

PetoPhil: "…"

Could this be some sort of mock court? What was happening here? Why was the high-ranking judge acting so peculiarly?

"I… I possess the evidence that they interfered with the game and squandered all resources through cheating!" PetoPhil was not one to concede defeat easily.

"Sigh, this is your final opportunity," Evelyn stated.

"Thank you, ma'am. Allow me to present the ultimate evidence! On the planet inhabited by our unfortunate players, we recently discovered a peculiar seed, and this seed can exclusively be found on the Zoratian planet!"

Since the opposing party was resorting to unfair tactics, he decided to bend the rules as well. This was his last gambit, a strategy requiring unlawful means to secure victory.

"But that proves absolutely nothing. I have this pen right here, and I took it from your pocket. If I were to commit a murder with it, would that implicate you as the killer?" Vritra retorted, spewing whatever nonsensical argument came to mind, after all…

"Excellent! What a remarkably apt response! There is no need for further proceedings. Based solely on this single statement, I hereby declare those ten individuals to be the victims of this entire deceitful arrangement!"

Evelyn swiftly announced her verdict. PetoPhil was on the verge of protest, but Vritra stepped forward, forcibly covering his mouth with a piece of cloth.

The remainder of the court observed in silent astonishment.

Vritra had effectively silenced the opposing counsel. What kind of trial was this?

"As recompense for these ten individuals from the Zoratian planet, they shall now bypass the trial, the first game, and the second game. Having already secured victory in the third game, all ten of them will now be elevated to the rank of demigods at level 3!"

Evelyn delivered another astonishing revelation, further shocking everyone present.

What kind of compensation was this? Even if they had genuinely triumphed, they shouldn't have received even half of that.

"Furthermore, the ten gods, acting for their personal gain, subjected these individuals to unimaginable mental distress and are responsible for numerous fatalities. They shall face the most severe punishment, which will be determined by my father. As for PetoPhil, for defending criminals, distorting the truth, and various other offenses, your legal license is revoked, all your assets and property will be confiscated, and you will spend two years in prison, enduring daily whippings." Evelyn rendered the final judgment.

"Mmm... uuuuuu..." PetoPhil attempted to cry out but was already bound. He thrashed on the ground.

How could a lawyer be the one receiving punishment in a trial? What in the world was going on?

"Hahaha, this is the first time I've ever witnessed a lawyer being found guilty in a case. But that arrogant dwarf bastard had it coming; I never liked his smug grin."

"Pffft! What's even more pathetic are those gods. Just look at them; they're still in shock. I've never attended such a comical trial. Those ten even got beaten up by the Divine? This is huge news!"

Everyone excitedly exited the courtroom, knowing the news would soon spread far and wide.

"…" The ten gods remained seated. Even if they had confessed their crimes, at most, they would have received a reprimand and perhaps a day or two in jail.

But now?

They were utterly doomed.

Vritra disregarded the gods and finally lifted his foot from PetoPhil's head. Perhaps he could even become a lawyer.

He was simply too exceptionally talented.

Several individuals even approached to offer congratulations, and Vritra, in his characteristic humility, merely attributed it to the creators for designing him with such overwhelming talent.

Soon, most people had departed, leaving the ten gods still seated.

"That was a satisfying skirmish. However, a true battle awaits us very soon, so be prepared," Vritra declared, a broad smile gracing his features, much to the gods' irritation.

{Sin Point Gained: Enraged +11}

'Oh, it's back?!' Vritra thought in surprise, finally concluding their ordeal in that desolate, apocalyptic land.

Yet, he pondered if the inhabitants would finally find peace, though that was beyond his power to ascertain.

"Your smiles won't last long. I will ensure you shed tears of blood!" the Sun God threatened, interrupting Vritra's musings.

"Heh, you'd best hope that doesn't happen, or you'll be left regretting it," Vritra replied before turning away. He was still no match for them, but very soon, they would be dethroned and utterly defeated.

Finally, the ten gods were escorted away.

"PetoPhil, enjoy your time in prison. And didn't you mention something you'd do if you lost earlier? Make sure to fulfill your promise." Vritra cut the ropes, freeing PetoPhil.

"You scoundrel, you'll pay for this! Do you have any idea who my stepfather is?! He will…" PetoPhil shrieked as he was dragged away.

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Thanks for reading... Adios