The blindfold was ripped away, and the sudden light of the throne room stung Tohi's eyes. As his vision cleared, he saw hundreds of spectators peering down at him from the galleries. The air was thick with their whispers.
"He's just a child," someone murmured.
"He's no child," another hissed back. "He's a monster in a boy's skin."
The chatter died down as a sharp, commanding voice cut through the room. A man stepped forward, his robes flowing behind him. "Silence! My King, I am Victor Kani, Head of the Ministry. I present the case of Tohi Kanisi, son of the late Toni Kanisi."
The room gasped at the name. Victor continued, "Toni Kanisi was executed as a demon years ago. Now, his son stands before us—the sole survivor of the Kasoi massacre. There is no physical proof yet, my King, only the impossible fact that he lived while an entire city burned."
The King sat motionless on his golden throne, his eyes cold. Finally, he spoke, his voice echoing off the stone walls. "My people, we know the law. No demon shall walk this land and live. Only a creature of darkness could survive the slaughter at Kasoi. I believe this boy didn't just survive the attack—I believe he caused it. He killed them all."
The King raised his hand, pointing at the shivering boy. "In five hours, his execution will begin."
Tohi's heart screamed, but his voice was trapped. A cold iron gag had been locked over his mouth, leaving him unable to plead for his life or tell the truth about his father.