Chapter 56 - 55: The Defense
Sleep didn’t come that night.
Leon’s cell felt smaller after returning from court. Stone walls pressed closer. The single torch cast dancing shadows that made carved runes seem alive. His body ached from hours in restraints but his mind raced faster than his pulse.
The folded paper crinkled between his fingers. He’d read the message fifty times. Defend yourself well and the outcome will favour you as I have always wanted to meet you.
Someone believed in him. Someone with courthouse access. Someone willing to risk everything.
But who?
Lady Thelyra’s knowing smirk haunted his thoughts. Aristocrats played games within games. Hidden agendas wrapped in silk and smiles. Her vote could swing either way.
Elim Voth’s ancient eyes showed curiosity instead of judgment. Celestial Path rarely involved themselves in politics. But the old man watched Leon like a revelation unfolding. Ancient wisdom recognizing something unprecedented.
Saria Dullin’s cryptic comments hinted at professional respect. The boy showed creativity. Adaptation mattered more than tradition in Tempest Veil philosophy. Survival instincts that most hunters lacked.
Leon paced three steps left. Three steps right. The cell allowed nothing more. Each step echoed against stone that had contained dangerous individuals for centuries.
The message could be bait. Enemies offered false hope before delivering killing blows. Political maneuvering wrapped in encouragement.
But what purpose would deception serve? Leon already faced execution. The jury held overwhelming opposition. No elaborate trap was needed.