court president

facade

*Chapter 1: The Facade*

Judge Jonathan Blackwood stepped into the courtroom, his presence commanding respect. His sharp jawline and piercing blue eyes seemed chiseled from granite. The black robe he wore was a symbol of his unwavering dedication to justice.

As he took his seat, the murmurs ceased. The courtroom fell silent, awaiting his words.

"The honorable Court is now in session," he declared, his voice firm and authoritative.

"It was just another day at the courthouse, with a slew of cases to tackle. But one stood out - a murderer who had taken the lives of three friends over a business contract, driven by greed. As I gazed sternly into his eyes, I was convinced of his guilt. His expression revealed no remorse, and his lawyer seemed resigned to defeat. The evidence overwhelmingly pointed to him.

"...Your Honor, are you sure you've reviewed the evidence thoroughly?" the defense attorney asked, her voice laced with skepticism.

Jonathan's gaze didn't waver. "I've reviewed the case files extensively, Counselor. The evidence is clear: the defendant's DNA was found at the crime scene, and eyewitness testimony places him at the scene of the crime."

The defendant shifted uncomfortably in his seat, his eyes darting between Jonathan and his lawyer.

"Very well, Your Honor," the prosecutor said, standing up. "We would like the case adjourned  to verify the sources of these evidences, what do you mean counsellor?, I am a man of law , so questioning the source of these evidence would an insult to my personality."

Jonathan's expression remained impassive. "I'll take that into consideration. Defendant, please rise.", but on a second thought ,

"Defendant, you're hereby sentenced to life imprisonment without parole."

The gavel came down with a resounding crack, echoing through the courtroom.

"Stepping out of the chilly courtroom, I headed straight to my car, eager to escape the day's stress. As a judge, I had to maintain a composed facade, but beneath the surface, a different reality awaited. I lived a double life – one of upholding justice, the other of ruling the underworld as a mafia boss.

"The weight of my dual responsibilities bore down on me. Impatient associates, rival factions, and lucrative deals demanded attention. I couldn't afford weakness.

"Arriving at my penthouse in the city's elite district, my butler greeted me with a discreet smile. 'Welcome, sir.' He relieved me of my suit, and I nodded in appreciation.

"Where's Matthew?" I asked, seeking my trusted right-hand man.

"Downstairs, sir. In the basement."

"With a nod, I strode to the elevator, descending into the heart of my operation. The basement was my sanctuary, where I unleashed my true self. Every ounce of anger, stress, and regret melted away amidst the shadows.

"As the doors opened, Matthew awaited, his expression grave. 'Boss, we have issues to address.'

"I steeled myself, embracing the darkness. 'Let's get to it.'"

"Locking the basement door behind me, I approached our esteemed guest, Andre Steven, a prominent politician. His exhausted eyes narrowed, pointing a shaky finger at me.

"'So, it's you,' he spat, his voice laced with venom.

"I smiled, savoring the fear emanating from him. Two days in my custody had taken its toll.

"'Anyone who threatens my operations ends up here,' I said, gesturing to the dimly lit room. 'Do you find this accommodation satisfactory, or would you prefer an upgrade?'

"Matthew, my right-hand man, nodded in approval. 'You've taken good care of our guest, Mathew, thank you sir he said

"Andre's gaze pleaded for mercy, but I reveled in his distress. His pain and fear were my fuel.

"'You're here for two reasons, Andre,' I began, my tone even. 'Firstly, you interfered with my business. Those drugs and smooth deals would have been possible without your persky intervention. You've done evil deeds too, but I'd say we're even.'

"His eyes widened as I continued.

"'Secondly, your wife brought a complaint to my attention. Women may seem powerless, but give them reason enough, and they can bring empires down.'"

"'You cheated on her with her own sister, someone she despises. And to make matters worse, you physically abused her after she discovered your infidelities. You're a monster, Andre.'

"His eyes pleaded for mercy, but I had none.

"'But I'm a greater monster,' I said, my voice dripping with malice. 'And this is poetic justice.'

"I turned to Andre, I want you to test your strength against me. You're older, so I think you have the advantage.', I would like a repeat of what you did to your wife , but this time with me .

"Andre stumbled to his feet, unsure if I was serious or joking. I stared at him, my expression unyielding.

"When he didn't react, I grew bored. I enjoyed toying with people, and Andre wasn't cooperating.

"'You need inspiration,' I said, punching him squarely in the eye.

"His head snapped back, pain etched on his face. I smiled, satisfied."

"The punch landed precisely where I aimed, and Andre staggered back, dazed and disoriented, like a lost dog.

"'Good, that's the inspiration you needed,' I said, examining his battered face.

"I knew my punch had inflicted sufficient damage; my expertise in throwing precise blows was unmatched. Andre's lack of physical conditioning was evident – no training or exercise had prepared him for this.

"'I hope that... motivation session was sufficient,' I said, my tone dripping with sarcasm. 'Now, let's discuss business. The intercepted drugs – I want you to call your men and order their release before evening's end.'

"Andre's battered face contorted in fear.

"'Failure to comply,' I continued, my voice cold and calculated, 'will result in me sending samples of your fingers to your men. A message they'll understand.'

"I handed him a phone, my eyes boring into his., I heard him make the call, ordering his men to release my goods, good, you did well .

"'You're fortunate your wife's hatred for you doesn't extend to wanting you dead,' I said, leaning in, my voice menacing. 'She pleaded for your release, but don't think this is a reprieve. You're free only because I deem it strategic.'

"Andre's eyes widened as I revealed my true nature.

"'Call me the Devil's Judge, if you will. But know this: I've gathered evidence to ensure your compliance. Attempt anything, and you'll face jail or worse.'

"I smiled, relishing his fear.

"'One more thing: those illegal ammunitions you imported last month? I have proof. Behave, and we might even do business.'

"I chuckled, glancing at Matthew, who produced a key.

"'But first, a parting gift.' I gestured to Matthew, who grasped Andre's hand.

"The sound of snapping fingers echoed through the basement, a symphony of suffering. Andre's screams were music to my ears as I exited, leaving Matthew to finish the job."