He paused, allowing the legal framework to settle before continuing. “The DOJ seeks to establish to the jury that Ms. Rivera has a clear understanding of her position and how these ‘features,’” - his air quotes drew a slight frown from Judge Donahue - “have well-established policy relative to discrimination in places of public accommodation.”

Several jurors leaned forward straining to catch fragments of the heated exchange despite the static barrier. A flash of concern crossed Juniper’s features as she noticed their attention, knowing that even the appearance of disagreement could sway their perceptions.

“Your Honor,” Juniper managed, her usual courtroom confidence wavering as Roma’s strategy became clear, “he is obviously trying to poison the jury. We have evidence that everyone seeking remedy has presented a model card in application of job opportunities.” Her eyes locked onto Judge Donahue’s, silently pleading for him to see through Roma’s careful legal choreography.

Roma’s posture remained unwavering, radiating the quiet confidence of someone holding four aces - the nuts. Judge Donahue glanced between them, his expression suggesting internal struggle with competing procedural principles. Finally, he nodded slightly. “You may continue, Mr. Roma,” he ruled, but added with clear warning, “Ensure your questions are directly relevant to the case at hand. I’ll allow you to continue but keep it focused.”

As they turned back to their respective tables, something in Roma shifted. Whatever she’d glimpsed earlier had resolved… his eyes widening slightly, not in surprise, but arrival. The urge to find Daniel’s eyes rose and she swallowed it back down. Above them, the copper sconces seemed to dim slightly, as if even the courthouse itself sensed the shifting tide in the auditorium.

Juniper returned to her seat as Roma pressed on. “Ms. Rivera, if I may, what is your level of understanding of the term ‘temperature’ in respect to how randomness above a specific threshold has been determined under the law to be considered a form of natural phenomenon?”