That same morning, the court assembled once again.
Leonard was dragged into the grand hall, his chains scraping loudly against the polished floor. Fresh bruises marked his wrists, but his expression remained as composed as ever.
Queen Maye regarded him from the throne.
"It appears," she said, "that yesterday's punishment was insufficient."
The court remained silent.
A guard stepped forward carrying a small wooden chest.
At the queen's signal, he opened it.
Inside lay a silver pendant stained with dried blood.
A murmur spread through the hall.
"Do you recognize this?" Queen Maye asked.
Leonard glanced at it only briefly.
"It belongs to Princess Lannae," someone from the crowd claimed.
The queen smiled.
"It was discovered near the place where she was last seen. Witnesses also claim they saw it in your possession shortly before her disappearance."
The whispers grew louder.
"So," the queen continued, "what have you to say in your defense?"
