Chapter 18 - Falling Pillars
Judge Sterling’s face drained of color as the federal agents moved past the private security guards, who immediately dropped their weapons and raised their hands.
"This is an outrage! You have no jurisdiction!" Sterling stammered, standing up from his desk as the cold steel cuffs were locked around his wrists.
"Jurisdiction extends everywhere when you threaten national financial infrastructure, Your Honor," Marshal Vance replied coldly, pulling the judge away from the bench. "Your co-conspirators in the district attorney’s office were picked up twenty minutes ago. The game is over."
As Sterling was escorted out of the courtroom in disgrace, Arthur let out a long, ragged breath he felt like he had been holding for three agonizing years. The corrupt pillars of the Vanguard empire were finally crumbling to dust.
Hannah walked over, placing a hand on Arthur’s shoulder. "It’s really over, Arthur. The systemic corruption is exposed, the assets are frozen, and the people responsible are facing federal prison."
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Arthur looked down at Leo, who offered a small, triumphant smile.
"Not just over, Hannah," Arthur said softly, wrapping his arm around both of them. "It's a brand new start."
