Title: Old Venom
"Madam Christ has secretly returned from the off-world colonies to back her son’s failing empire," the magistrate revealed.
The words hung heavily in the dim space of the judicial chambers, vibrating with an ominous weight. Gerald did not blink, his dark cybernetic pupils widening slightly as they recalibrated to process the data stream.
"Her return changes nothing about the final arithmetic of this conflict," Gerald stated, his voice completely flat.
"You underestimate her ruthlessness, Director," Magistrate Joseph whispered, his hands trembling against his velvet robes.
"I do not underestimate assets, Joseph; I liquidate them," Gerald replied coldly, turning toward the high exit doors.
Laura followed him closely, her silver gown sweeping across the marble fl
