The morning of the trial had dawned, and a massive crowd gathered in the grand square before the imperial palace. From commoners to powerful nobles, including the great lords of the land, all had come to witness the proceedings. Among the crowd stood Duke Airan Decarrun and her elite soldiers from Lowellina. Normally, only the royal guard could enter the capital, but the duke’s high standing allowed her this privilege.

Beside the stern-faced Airan stood the Hero and the Mage. While Lucy silently focused on the grand platform ahead, Tigria nervously kept an eye on her, worried about any impulsive …