PROLOGUE: As Zinnia Celerez.

AUTHOR'S NOTE: BEFORE WE GET INTO THE CHAPTER, I'D LIKE TO DISCLAIMER THAT I USED THIS TRIAL
SCENE IN THIS CHAPTER TO HAVE A SMALL INTRODUCTION OF OUR MAIN CHARACTER. I REFERRED TO
THE COURT SYSTEM IN CALIFORNIA BECAUSE OF THE SETTING THEY WERE IN AT THE TIME. THIS IS A
WORK OF FICTION. I'M SORRY IF THERE ARE MANY ERRORS IN THE COURT TRIAL SCENE. THE WITNESSES
AND EVIDENCES WERE SUPPOSED TO BE PRESENTED BY BOTH PARTIES. I MADE IT APPEAR AS IF THE
PROSECUTOR HAD FINISHED PRESENTING THE EVIDENCE AS WELL AS QUESTIONING THE WITNESS, AND
I DID THE SAME ON THE DEFENSE TEAM. I'M GOING TO TRY TO IMPROVE MY WRITING AND DEVELOP IT
MORE. I HAD A GREAT TIME WRITING THIS ONE BECAUSE I'D NEVER DONE IT BEFORE, AND IT WAS A
LITTLE DIFFICULT. PLEASE EXCUSE ANY TYPOGRAPHICAL OR GRAMMATICAL ERRORS YOU MAY FIND.

Thank you.

Stay safe! And enjoy.

yuh…:)

"You were told to lay low Zin."

As he whispered, Hein grabbed the white handkerchief that I purposely dropped on the floor. Without
glancing on me, he then returned to his seat. Technically in my side.

"I am laying low. What are you talking about?" I replied.

From what I see, the media are only focused on the member of the court. As a member of the audience,
I'm not visible enough for the camera to see me. The woman in front of me is slightly blocking my view,
causing the cameras to miss me.

But I still know what's happening.

This may appear to be a simple case , but based on what I've seen so far, it's not. I'm surrounded by
high-ranking government officials. I thought it was just someone that looked like them, I never thought
they were here as well.  Not only did an ordinary citizen attended a court hearing, but someone with a
higher status was also present. They must have a lot of free time to watch.

Ah.

I'm intrigued.
"Are they involve?"

Hein abruptly talked, pertaining to the officials who are here.

He noticed as well.

I gave him a slow glance before returning my gaze to the front. "You're quick to catch." I complimented.

A gut feeling... That one person in this courtroom is involved in the case.

Or perhaps not. It could be my stupidity speaking.

But I'm curious to see how the defendant handles the situation.

"Your Honor,  Christian Hermsly made a threat against the defendant's business. As a result, she silenced
them. Everything went as planned— At the conclusion of today's trial, we're going to ask that you find
the defendant guilty as charged." A tall woman prosecutor, with curly hair around her 20's said and
slightly smiled. "Thank you." She added.

"And with the defense like to do their opening now or reserve?"

"Now your Honor." An insanely attractive man with his hair slicked back stood up and said.

"Very well."

"Rose and Christian Hermsly lives in a beautiful house, had a perfect relationship and  even recently
founded a start-up for self-driving vehicles. But tragedy struck and era picture-perfect family fell apart.
Rose, a sci-fi director and Christian a technical adviser met in the entertainment industry where a trade
share and passion for the future led them to find a start-up for new technology. Specifically, it's Honda's
vehicles."

He stopped and let out a breath for a second. He then continued. "Christian and their son Floyd, whom
Rose adored as if he were one of her own, moved in with Rose, but tragedy struck when Floyd died
while riding one of the company's very own autonomous scooters. Christian suffered from a severe
depression and was quick to blame Floyd's death on the start-up. Miss Hermsly was there to support
Christian after the tragedy. She even made an effort to remember Christian by putting together a
shadowbox with Floyd's favorite putters, and the night of June 7th was no exception. Ms. Hermsly
prepared a rose and champagne bath for Christian on the evening of June 7th. However, as was the
incident in the case. That night, Christian came home drunk, and during an argument, the champagne
bottle broke, and Ms. Hermsly left Christian alone. Christian was alone in the wet bathroom when he
slipped and fell, resulting in his unfortunate loss—"

"--And you will hear that Rose. Did not kill Christian."

"And your evidence?"

"I have a testimony, Your Honor."

The judge nodded and signaling him to continue to present.

"After reviewing all of the evidence in today's case, you will see that the people's case is filled with
reasonable doubt and that the people's case is based on unreasonable conclusions from the evidence,
and we will ask you to prevent another tragedy from occurring by finding Rose Hersmly not guilty. Thank
you." He finished and took a seat.

"Thank you." The judge replied before glancing the Prosecution team. "Is the prosecution ready with our
first witness?"

"Yes, Your Honor, the people call Detective Yohan Sanch to the stand."

The detective was called to the witness stand in front of the media and us, the audience, and solemnly
swore to say facts and nothing but facts.

The prosecutor began her questions, and the witness responded honestly. I hadn't been concentrating
on the prosecution team for very long when the defense Attorney piqued my interest.

I noticed him moving his mouth a little. He didn't appear to be chewing. His mouth, however, was
slightly moving.

It doesn't seem like they're noticing it, because they were focused on the other side, but is it just me
or...

Ha.

Was he eating candy?

or perhaps he's playing with his mouth?

When his mouth moved again, that's when I confirmed it.

He was chewing on something, which was either a candy or something that wasn't really a candy.

I almost laughed at the same time weirded out and felt pathetic at myself when I actually figured it out.

Who would have guessed that a defense attorney would break a rule?

"Does it fairly naturally depict, the defendant's master bathroom as you saw it on the morning of June 8,
2020?"

Back from watching the prosecution team question the witness.

"It does Ma'am." The witness stated.

"The people who have exhibits move into the evidence."

"Any objection?"

The defense Attorney stand up. "No, Your Honor."  He said calmly.

The prosecutor pressed on. "You said you wanted to examine the golf club further. Were you able to
examine it?"

"Yes."

The prosecutor smiled slightly and continued to question the detective. "Please refer to Exhibit D in the
binder you have marked for identification— Do you recognize this?"

"I do Ma'am."

"What is it?"

"A photographed of the golf club I seized from the defendant's vehicle."

"Does it fairly and accurately depict the golf club you seized?"

"It does."

"The people move because it seems evidence."

"Any objection?" The judge looked at him and he immediately stood up.

"No, Your Honor." He stated.

"Will be received."

"Now did you do any further investigation of the defendant's property? " The prosecutor continued to
ask question once again.

"I did Ma'am. I requested and received consent to search an office on the premises. So, I proceeded to
do so."

"Did you find anything?"

"I did Ma'am. I seized a movie script in that office."

"And what did that movie script contain?"

"The content of that script for some similarities to the scene of Christian Hersmly's  death."

"Refer to what's been marked for identification as Exhibit C." The detective flipped the page on the
binder. "Do you recognize this?"
"I do Ma'am."

"What is it?"

"This is a copy of the script that I seized, that I believed, the defendant was connected to the Celerez
Production—"

"Objection your Honor!" The defense Attorney abruptly shouted, drawing everyone's attention to him.

It created a noise on the court.

The thought of Celerez's involvement has shocked the audience and as well as the higher officials who
have been presented.

"The witness is making a false accusation against someone who isn't in the court." He was calmer this
time, and his expression changed quickly.

The prosecutor smirked as she laughed. "How do you know a Celerez family member isn't on the court?"

Damn it.

"Zinnia." Hein whispered without looking at me.

I leaned back in my seat. Curious to see the defense attorney's reaction from where I am. But nothing
changed.

I guess I expected him to.

I chuckled. "Don't worry Hein." I saw how the defense attorney fixing his tie from his seat. To think that
in this situation, he actually has time to do that.

Ha.

Really.

I simply shook my head in disbelief.

"They wouldn't caught me." I reassured Hein, putting him somehow at ease.

"Objection sustained." The judge said. "How come you said Rose Hermsly was related to the Celerez's? I
mean of course, she was connected to them because she works for that company. However, it is not
entirely related to the CEO."

The detective tensed up, making it impossible for him to speak to the judge.

As a result, the defense attorney was given the opportunity to speak.

"Defense counter-argument?"

"Yes, Your Honor." He took a confident step forward and cleared his throat. "

"I've already made my decision based on the evidence and arguments I've seen. However, I'd like to
hear your side of the story as well as inform the jury. So, please, proceed." The judge motioned to him.

He bowed respectfully and began his argument. "Thank you, your Honor—"

"Christian Hersmly died an accidental death, your Honor. Detective failed to bring the dimensions of the
trough, which she measured herself to the attention of the medical examiner Dr. Lance Denz. This
explains why the detective jumped to the conclusion of murder rather than reviewing all the evidence in
today's case. Christian, drunk, distraught and alone, paired the slippery wet floor. Slipped, fell
backwards, hit the back of their head of the trough and drown. Your honor, do not compound this
tragedy with another."

"Murder, not tragedy, your Honor." The detective was adamant.

I almost burst out laughing.

I guess attending this hearing was worth my time.

It's amusing how the detective insists that Ms. Hersmly's spouse was murdered in the case. When it's
just a ruse to involve the Celerez family.

Which makes me wonder why a mere detective would be interested in the Celerez.

"You're attempting to charge the defendant with murdering his husband in order to bring the Celerez
family into this court—This is a bench trial, which means I get to decide whether Hermsly is guilty or
innocent in this case. We've all heard of the standard of proof. The prosecution must prove the
defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and prove all of the elements to that standard—Based on
the evidence and facts of this specific case, I will find the defendant not guilty."

It's done.

But it was the expressions on the high officials' faces that really got to me.

They aren't trying to hide the fact that they are pleased with the judge's decision.

Ah.

What are they attempting to accomplish?

"Thank you for your service today, Jury." "The court has been adjourned." With that, the judge stood up,
gave me a quick glance, and smiled before leaving her seat.

Hein chuckled. "She saw you."

I can see that.

So, I'm guessing that some of the people in this courtroom are aware that I'm here.

Was it looked like I'm exposing myself?

I shook my head, expressing my dissatisfaction.

I guess... "It's not one of my strong suits to maintain a low profile." I murmured as I stood up and walked
over to where the judge was, wearing my black glasses now and the cap in tweed, pinstripe, and
wrapped in tulle.

I lost track of the defender earlier after the judge announce that the court has been adjourned.

I wanted to talk to him.

"Find him later Hein." I said.

"What?!" He immediately complained.

Not minding what he said, I then walked ahead of him until I reached the judge, who was looking at me
with a smile on her lips.

But it wasn't your typical kind smile. It was like saying, "Who gave you the right to go here?" or
something along those lines. When I was almost to her side, her smile faded and was replaced by a
heavy sigh. She turned away from me and let me follow her to her office.

Ysiana Leriaty.

The Judge's plate stand was the first thing I noticed in the room. The judge's chambers were well-kept. I
can't even see the papers that are strewn across the desk. It was well-organized. Her office was
adequate for her needs.

I cast a wide arc of my gaze across the room. Checking to see if there was any kind of surveillance
camera. Or it could be a bug that is listening in on our conversations.

Because of the situation I'm in. Even though I'm hiding, I don't think it's impossible for them to find me.

Ha.

In what I've been doing lately, I'm making it appear as if I wanted to be found because of my eagerness
to go out and not stay in.

While I was busy roaming around and appreciating the furniture, I could sense a pair of eyes watching
my every move. It felt like someone was throwing daggers at me. Preparing herself to scold her
daughter's daughter. Her face was literally saying she could drag me home at any time and lock me in
my room.
"Your excuse?" She raised her eyebrows, intently looking at me.

I can't think of anything.

Is what I wanted to say but...—

"I don't have one." —that came out of my mouth.

I can sense already that she's pissed.

Well, she is.

Gone the calm judge earlier at the hearing. The one who's in front of me is the strict and impatient
person in Leriaty family.

"When are you going home Zin?" she hissed at me. More like a warning.

"I'm not going home." I stated.

"Zin!"

"I'm not done yet. I'll continue with the plan and I'm still in command."

"And Cion?" Hein abruptly barged in, making me and the judge looked at him at the same time.

Seriously.

I leave him to find the attorney for me. And now his coming here without him?

God....

I irritatedly rolled my eyes. And why is he asking about Cion now?

I tried to lie low these past few years. Don't tell me he found out?

Tsk.

"Spit it Hein."

"Your brother warned me."

Ha.

"So, you met him already? Without letting me know?"

"I'm letting you know right now." he said sounding so proud.

Ah. —This guy.

This guy is bullshiting me right now.

"Just go home Zin." My grandma begs while massaging her temples.

Becoming agitated about the situation.

Tsk.

I should be the one who is stressed out here.

I raised both of my hands surrendering. "No. I'll go home If I wanted to—and if I'm done." No used of
arguing now. I'll just leave myself.

She sighed heavily, giving up on my stubbornness.

I know she's worried. But I can perfectly handle myself.

This isn't the first time someone has tried to kill me.

"Come in, Yuri." I said through the earpiece that I have since earlier, checking if they're still monitoring.

Well they should be.

"I'm here Lieutenant." he immediately respond.

"Check the premises."

"One sec—three people are waiting for you outside the door. They've been following you for a while,
but they're not armed. So, you're free to go out now. They will, however, continue to track you."

"Names?"

"Senator Ricky Forgeson, Vice Mayor Lasquez Molina and Senator Miriani Artin."

Ha.

I knew it.

They've been monitoring me from the start.

What to do? Should I kill them?

Tsk, really—Being a Celerez is pain in the ass I swear to god.

Without hesitation, I drew my handgun from my waist, loaded it, and returned it to my waist.
I'll keep it hidden for the time being because they're unarmed.

But who knows?

"I'm leaving. Just tell mom and take care of yourself." I mouthed to my grandma who's leaning on the
table, crossed arms and just watching my move.

I then grabbed Hein with me.

I'm not even worried.

I know all damn too well that it's ok to leave her here, she is, after all, a Leriaty.

At the very least, that's what she always says. It comes from their forefathers. I didn't even know if I
possessed any of the traits.

Ha.

Seriously.

A judge with assassins' pride—is what the folks call it.

Just as I'm about to walk through the doorway to leave. I was greeted by the sound of bullets.

Ah.

Well that's bullshit.

Safe to go out huh?

"Oh. They arrive unexpectedly—I apologize, Lieutenant."

I tossed Hein to the side, quickly grabbed my handgun and pointed it to the one who's shooting bullets
at us.

"Hey! you could have tossed me properly." I heard Hein complain.

"Would you rather get shot then?"

Really.

Such a pain in the ass.

To properly aim, I take cover behind a wall. But who am I to say I have time for that? We're being too
obnoxious. That is, in a court of law.

The police officers will arrive at this point.

We need to escape before that happens.

"Yuri tell the others. I need clean up ASAP." I said through the earpiece as I fired a shot at the man,
aiming it at both of his legs and the hand holding the handgun.

"Copy that."

Ah.

It's a good thing there are no citizens left, and I'm their sole target.

It could have been a huge bother to me.

"Are we going now?" Hein was fixing his hair.

I rolled my eyes in annoyance and averted my gaze.

So impatient.

If he wasn't related to me, I could have broken three or two of his ribs.

To think he has time for that.

I tossed my handgun to the ground and made my way to the exit, Hein trailing behind me. The police are
still not here.

So, it's easier for me to get out without being noticed.

The officials are no longer present. I didn't even notice them leave. I assumed they just ordered
someone to shoot me and then flee—Tsk. If they wanted me dead, they could have just done it by
themselves.

All of a sudden a camouflage car pulls over at as. Thinking it was Yuri and the others, I didn't hesitate
and go in quickly.

Just as I was about to rest Hein speak again.

"You want to be a wanted woman in California now?" Hein said teasingly when he entered the car.

I don't get him sometimes.

I just stared at him, expressionless.

Ha.

Was that even a joke?

I shook my head, dismissing that thought, and continued to gaze out the window, taking in the scenery.
I've only been here a short time. I've been changing countries for my own safety, and California has
piqued my interest.

And because of that one person who is a lawyer.

Tsk.

We'd be discussing our deals right now if Hein hadn't gotten him sooner.

Ha.

"Lucian." I called him. One of my subordinates who can track down locations.

"Yes, Lieutenant Leriaty?" he asked, quickly turning to face me.

"Find out where attorney Ryxvien is staying right now." I gave the order, he nodded, and quickly took
out his laptop to find his location.

If I succeed today, I'll go home on my own.

Lucian takes his time tapping his laptop to find Ryxvien. It's a good thing I put a track on him earlier in
the hearing without him noticing.

I really made an impulsive decision again.

When I'm not even sure if I'll be able to get him by my side.

I'd say a gut feeling— I think.

Well, if anything goes wrong, I'll just have to get him killed.

"Hilton Hotel," he said as soon as he found him.

He then let Yuri go in the direction where the hotel was.

"I'm not coming because you're reckless." The first thing Hein said when I got out of the car.

As if I'd take him with me.

I wanted to blurt out something because I was pissed at him, but changed my mind because it was a
waste of time.

I don't have a plan.

Should I just confront him?

Right... I'm reckless.

Maybe I'll just force him to hand over the encrypted code and go. That's not a very smart move, but I
like it. I always find these things to my liking. Doing something on my own and not someone telling me
to. I can't remember the last time I was controlled by someone. More like my whole being.

It's scary to think about it at the same time. It feels weird because I don't care either way.

If I got those coordinates, I'm sure he would have rushed to me. He either got me killed or forced me to
work for him.

Well, I'll think about the consequences later.

The most important thing to do right now is get the encrypted codes.

"Take a left at the east wing." It was Yuri.

I did what he said. I immediately found Ryxvien leaning against the counter bar while drinking.

There are not many people around. More like it was just two of them. But I doubt that the other one is a
stranger.

I didn't hesitate and just walked to him, slowly. I wanted him not to notice my presence. But I don't think
it's necessary. When he suddenly spoke, his back was facing me while circling the ice in the glass of his
drink.

"Wasn't it so nice that Lieutenant Leriaty was paying me a visit?" He turned around to face me. Looking
at me intently. What he said surprised me, but what surprised me the most was when he was already
pointing his gun in my head.

Ha.

A slight grin formed on my lips while I brought both of my hands up in the air, surrendering.

"You know... I just really came here to talk." I said as I looked at him directly in his eyes.

If he's not going to hand it properly, I really needed to force him, and that was a lot of work.

He brought his drink to the counter top and slid his hand through his pocket. I saw him get a small piece
of paper and show it to me.

I assumed that's what I was looking for.

"Encryption codes." He stared at them and then glanced at me.

"For a mere lawyer you really go out those trouble to know me. I'm touched."
"Cut the crap Leriaty— I'm not here to have a nice conversation with you."

"So, you want to negotiate? The way I see it, it's more like you're threatening me."

He put down his gun, which was pointing at me, and gave me an impatient look.

Ha...

But I'm just as impatient as he is. I've already wasted a lot of time on this. I might as well do it now.

"Hand over it, then we'll talk." I said in a cold tone. That encrypted code was so important to me that I
actually risked my life for it. With that, my men abruptly barged in, surrounding him and pointing their
guns at him all at the same time.

"If we're going to negotiate, I'll do it in my own way."

To be continued....