The judge’s eyes widened as the words washed over her, a powerful reminder of the man before her, his heroism and the price he had paid. The courtroom grew silent once more, the weight of the recording settling over its occupants like a palpable force.

Judge Harthrow’s expression changed, her stern facade cracking under the weight of a tumult of emotions. She blinked rapidly, as if trying to hold back tears, her composure slipping. Her gavel, once a symbol of authority, now seemed powerless. Without a word, she rose abruptly, her chair scraping against the floor, and with her robe billowing behind her, she fled the courtroom, leaving behind a stunned silence.