The chamber had transformed into something between a holiday party and a revolution. International visitors hugged each other while their forgotten scrolls logged the historic moment. The family from the back had their children up on their shoulders, everyone singing some kind of impromptu victory song.

“Your Honor!” Juniper called out over the noise, unable to contain her smile as she gestured to the chaos. “I apologize for the breach in decorum!”

Judge Donahue shook his head, his own professional mask cracking as he watched the scene unfold. “Ms. Valenca,” he replied, raising his voice to be heard, “I think today we can allow a little… enthusiasm.”