The marble steps of Haicheng's High Court gleamed under the noonday sun as Sebastian Qiao and Zora Su ascended toward justice. Their son, now eight, walked between them, clutching his mother's hand. The courthouse's portico pillars loomed like silent witnesses to a trial that would decide guilt or redemption for them both.
Inside, Courtroom 7A thrummed with tension. Citations scrolled on screens, reporters scribbled furiously, and shareholders lined the gallery beneath a banner reading **“State of Haicheng vs. Sebastian Qiao."** At the front, Judge Lin—stern and composed—surveyed the packed chamber. Sebastian took his place at the defense table; Zora sat beside him, notes in hand, prepared to testify.
The prosecution opened. Prosecutor Huang's voice rang clear: “Your Honor, Mr. Qiao know
