"Why didn't you speak?" Grace asked. "Because no one was listening." "Anyway," Ariel answered simply. The raw truth of the statement seemed to hang in the air.
Even the court reporter wiped away tears as Ariel stepped down. Judge Barnes called. For a 15-minute recess, her own composure visibly affected. When court resumed, it was Ms. Ror's turn to testify.
Lawrence Whitfield had clearly coached her to appear contrite, but under the pressure of cross-examination, her facade cracked. "Mor," Grace pressed. "Did you have any personal history with Lieutenant Colonel Daniels before this incident?" "Objection," Whitfield called. "Irrelevant."
"Your honor," Grace countered. "We have evidence that Ms. Ror's actions were motivated by a personal vendetta against Ariel's mother. It goes directly to intent. I'll allow it.
Judge Barnes ruled. The witness will answer. Ms. Ror's face flushed. We may have crossed paths.
Isn't it true that Latin Colonel Daniels was your superior officer during your brief military service and that you were discharged after failing to meet basic requirements? She had it in for me. Ms. Ror snapped, her composure evaporating. Just like all of them do, these entitled parents and students who think they can weaponize identity to get special treatment.
Rules apply to everyone. The courtroom fell silent at her outburst. Whitfield closed his eyes briefly, recognizing the damage done. Grace let the moment linger before asking her final question. Ms.
Ror, did you target Ariel Daniels because of who her mother is? Ms. Ror's silence was answer enough. The day's final surprise came when Grace called an unexpected witness, Colonel James Stratton, Naomi's former commanding officer. The silver-haired veteran took the stand with military precision.
After establishing his credentials, 30 years of service, multiple commenations, current position as a military ethics instructor, Grace got to the point. Colonel Stratton, did you have occasion to observe Ms. Ror during her military training? I did, he confirmed. She was in Lieutenant Colonel Daniels training unit 8 years ago.
And what was your assessment of her performance? Below standard in every category, Colonel Stratton stated flatly. But more concerning was her attitude toward colleagues, particularly those of color. She filed multiple complaints alleging discriminatory treatment, all of which were investigated and found to be without merit. Did she ever make comments about Lieutenant Colonel Daniels specifically?