Roma’s sight narrowed, tracking this exchange with precise calculation. The corner of his mouth easing - not quite a smile, not quite a grimace. For a moment, his usual menacing demeanor seemed to yield, replaced by something harder to read. He glanced briefly at his team before returning his gaze to Juniper, his expression shifting into an uncharacteristically neutral mask.

“Your Honor,” Roma began, his voice steady and composed, embodying his role within the Department of Justice. “Ms. Valenca raises a significant point regarding public accountability. The government’s position… ” he paused thoughtfully, selecting his words with deliberate care, ”… could benefit from a comprehensive review to ensure all actions are transparent and just. We are, of course, prepared should an in-depth evaluation be deemed necessary.”

The admission hung in the air like thunder before lightning. Judge Donahue’s eyes moved between them, reading currents that ran deeper than legal argument. Finally, he nodded, decision crystallizing in his expression.