“All rise!” The bailiff’s voice suddenly filled the chamber as Judge Donahue moved to formally approach.

“Well,” the judge cleared his throat, settling into his chair. “Shall we proceed with voir dire?”

The jury pool filled the gallery, their faces blurring together like watercolors as Juniper rose, the silk of her blouse whispering confidence against her skin. Her mind hummed with rehearsed questions and carefully crafted strategy - she’d prepared for this moment, had built their constitutional framework brick by meticulous brick. The familiar surge of courtroom adrenaline steadied her hands as she turned to face their potential jurors.