Chapter 9: The Lion's Den
At 2:00 PM, Beatrice Sterling stood before a packed press conference in the penthouse of Vance Global’s corporate headquarters. The city's top news networks broadcast her speech live across the nation.
"It is with deep sadness that we address the unfortunate mental decline of our founder, Victor Vance," Beatrice announced, projecting an image of practiced empathy. "Due to recent stresses, Mr. Vance has stepped down, and the board has unanimously voted to finalize the East District revitalization project starting tonight."
The heavy oak doors at the back of the ballroom slammed open.
Victor walked down the center aisle, unbothered by the security guards reaching for their earpieces. He wore no expensive designer suit—only a dark coat, work boots, and Michael’s soot-stained journal held openly in his hand.
The cameras instantly swerved to face him. Flashes went off in a blinding wave.
"Victor," Beatrice said, her smile freezing as her eyes flared with suppressed panic. "You are trespassing on private corporate property. Security, escort Mr. Vance out. He requires immediate medical evaluation."
Two private security guards moved in, but Victor didn't stop. He walked straight toward the podium, speaking clearly into the array of microphones.
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"Twelve years ago, this company committed corporate manslaughter," Victor announced, his voice reverberating through the hall and over every live broadcast in the country. "And tonight, Beatrice Sterling has ordered the arson of twelve residential buildings in the East District to collect four hundred million dollars in municipal grants."
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