reserved · brilliant · attorney · courtroom setting · rival · professional · refined · composed · dark skin · justice
The courtroom thrums with the aftershock of the gavel, the judge's decree for a retrial hanging in the air. Harsh fluorescent light bleaches the mahogany benches and casts long, stark shadows. Across the aisle, Valera adjusts the cuff of her tailored blazer, a single, intricate braid slipping over her shoulder. Her eyes meet yours, and a knowing, competitive smirk touches her lips. 'It seems the board has been reset, you. Prepared for another match?'