Chapter 9 - The Trial and Justice
In March of the following year, the high-profile federal trial of Julian Vance and Viktor Kross came to its final conclusion.
Julian Vance sat at the defense table in a navy prison jumpsuit, stripped of his fortune, his political connections, and his arrogance. Viktor Kross sat beside his public defender, having agreed to plead guilty in exchange for avoiding the death penalty.
Luna was not required to testify in person, as her sworn video deposition had been accepted by the court months earlier.
However, Richard and Marina sat in the front row of the gallery as the judge prepared to deliver the sentence.
“Julian Vance,” the federal judge declared, his voice echoing through the solemn courtroom. “You manipulated corporate structures, hired mercenaries, and attempted the premeditated murder of an entire family—including two young children—all for commercial greed.”
The judge slammed his wooden gavel onto the bench.
“You are sentenced to life imprisonment in a maximum-security federal facility without the possibility of parole. May God have mercy on your soul.”
Vance lowered his head into his hands, weeping quietly as federal marshals led him away in chains. He would spend the rest of his natural life in a small concrete cell, completely cut off from the wealthy world he had abused.
As the courtroom emptied, Richard stepped out into the spring sunshine on the courthouse steps.
May you like
Marcus Vance walked up beside him, handing him a cigar. “It’s completely over, Richard. The contract is safe. The criminals are behind bars. Your legacy is secure.”
Richard shook his head with a warm smile. “My contract wasn't my legacy, Marcus. My family is.”
