The verdict was unanimous.
Guilty.
On all major counts.
Kelly's attorneys requested leniency.
The judge refused.
He looked directly at her.
"You orchestrated an act of violence under the appearance of authority."
Kelly lowered her eyes.
"You directed others to act, then attempted to hide behind bureaucracy."
He paused.
"A child was harmed."
The sentence was severe.
Ten years in federal custody.
The gavel fell.
And for the first time in months, Nick exhaled.
Not because they had won.
Because the truth had finally been heard.
Peace
Outside the courthouse, reporters waited.
One approached Allison.
"What do you feel right now?"
She looked at Nick.
Then at Logan.
Then toward the courthouse.
"Peace."
She paused.
"And the strength to build something better."
Nick took her hand.