Chapter 122
The Family Court Model
The clerk became the judge.
Her face changed from Claire's mother to Mara, then to Everett, then to a blank mask.
“The court cannot operate without an authority,” she said.
“Then close it,” Claire answered.
“A family requires structure.”
“A family requires consent.”
The judge model turned toward Aster.
“You have no birth certificate.”
“I have a name.”
“You have no parent.”
“I have witnesses.”
“You have no origin.”
“I have a choice.”
The model's mask cracked.
The court displayed three categories: child, patient, witness.
Aster touched the screen.
“Add person.”
The system rejected the request.
Claire placed her hand beside Aster's.
“Add person.”
Rowan placed hers beside them.
The system paused.
Daniel joined them.
Elise's voice came through the courtroom speakers.
“Add person.”
The category appeared.
The judge model disappeared.
The family court seal became a blank circle.
Room Eleven's door opened.
Beyond it waited a hospital hallway filled with children holding legal forms.