Marikit's trial was historic—the first public legal proceeding against an ancient creature in modern history.
The Department organized it carefully, ensuring fairness while acknowledging the severity of her crimes. Creature judges. Creature jury. Human observers welcome but not participating.
Glad testified via video—still recovering, but clear and honest.
"She hurt many people. Manipulated young creatures. Tried to destroy our community. But I don't hate her. I pity her. She had centuries to choose love and chose fear instead."
Marikit, watching from the defendant's area, showed no emotion.
The jury deliberated for three days.
Their verdict: guilty on all counts.
Sentence: magical containment for 500 years, with possibility of review after 300.
"Fair," Glad said when told. "Long enough for her to reflect. Short enough to offer hope."
Ariel visited Marikit once, before her containment began.
"Why?" Marikit asked. "Why come?"
"To say goodbye. Properly. We had 80 years, Marikit. Some of them were good. I'm sorry they ended badly. I'm sorry you couldn't let go."
"I loved you."
"I know. But love isn't possession. It's freedom." He stood. "Maybe in 300 years, you'll understand that."
He left without looking back.
Some chapters needed to close.