THE RED INK
Chapter 1: The Red Ink of Justice The courtroom of the district court felt like a crypt: high ceilings, the smell of old paper, and cold light pouring in through narrow windows. Attorney Daniel Levin—whose name in legal circles was synonymous with the hardest, priciest acquittals—adjusted his cuffs. He knew today wouldn’t be easy. Opposing him was not merely the law, but Abraham Berg . Judge Berg entered as if he’d brought an Arctic cyclone with him. His robe was perfectly pressed, and his face looked as though it had been carved from gray granite. He didn’t spare so much as a glance for either the prosecution or the defense. “Be seated,” Berg said—his voice landing like a gavel blow. “On the docket: the defense’s motion to lift the attachment on Mr. Varg’s assets.” He paused. “Mr. Levin.” The judge’s tone held no emotion. “I have reviewed your motion to lift the attachment on Mr. Varg’s assets. It is… curious. From the standpoint of belles-lettres .” A ripple of snickers moved t...