The laughter died instantly.

Conrad shouted for security to cut the power.

The screens changed again.

His private ledger opened.

And outside, sirens began to scream.

PART 3

The cathedral doors did not open.

They exploded inward under a federal ram as SWAT officers poured into the sanctuary.

“Federal agents! Hands where we can see them!”

Guests dropped behind pews. Victor froze as laser sights crossed his tuxedo. Conrad moved toward a side corridor, but Naomi Price entered with the warrants in hand.

“Conrad Vale,” she called, “you are under arrest for racketeering, conspiracy, witness tampering, money laundering, bribery, obstruction, and solicitation of murder.”

“This is insanity!” Conrad roared. “Do you know who I am?”

“Yes,” Naomi said. “That is why we brought everyone.”

Agents took his phone and arrested his security chief. Victor backed away.

“I didn’t do anything.”

The screens replayed his threats. Then audio filled the cathedral.