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– Morning - The Hightower HQ Courthouse –

In the morning, Greed and Ragnar stood in front of the Hightower courthouse, an imposing structure that bore a remarkable resemblance to the architectural style of the renowned Notre Dame Cathedral from the early Victorian era. The courthouse, under the watchful gaze of Envy, who also served as one of the Grand Councilors and a judge, exuded an air of significance and solemnity.

The building's façade, adorned with intricate stonework, featured elaborate carvings and ornate details that showcased the craftsmanship of the era. Tall spires reached towards the sky, reminiscent of the cathedral that had inspired its design. The entrance, framed by massive wooden doors, welcomed them into a world of legal proceedings and justice.

As they stepped inside, the interior of the courthouse revealed its timeless elegance. A spacious foyer welcomed them, featuring polished marble floors and towering columns that added a touch of opulence. Soft light filtered through stained glass windows, casting colorful hues and patterns on the floor, creating a serene atmosphere.

Inside the lobby of the courthouse, mages from different factions gathered, engaged in animated conversations about the imminent and critical hearing scheduled for the day. Eyes turned towards Ragnar, acknowledging his presence with a respectful bow, recognizing him as the esteemed High Councilor of the Hightower. A sense of deference permeated the air as they exchanged nods of acknowledgment.

However, among the throng of mages, those aligned with factions differing from Ragnar's, such as those affiliated with the influential Alchemont clan, merely cast a passing glance in his direction, their attention swiftly shifting elsewhere, seemingly indifferent to his presence.

The bustling atmosphere within the lobby mirrored the diverse tapestry of the magical community, each mage representing their own interests, agendas, and alliances. Whispers of speculation and anticipation filled the space, as mages sought to glean any nuggets of information that might shed light on the upcoming hearing.

Both Ragnar and Greed nodded in acknowledgment, exchanging pleasantries with the mages who greeted them. However, their focus remained steadfast as they made their way towards the courtroom, acutely aware that the hearing was imminent.

Stepping into the main courtroom, their eyes were immediately drawn to the grandeur of the space. The high ceiling soared above them, creating a sense of vastness that could accommodate up to 1000 people. The room was adorned with ornate decorations and intricate carvings, a testament to the craftsmanship of the Victorian era.

As they walked further into the room, their attention was captured by the sight of three floating platforms at the front. On each platform, a magnificent throne rested, signaling the seat of the Grand Councilor, who would preside over the proceedings. The platforms floated gracefully, seemingly defying the laws of gravity, adding an ethereal touch to the courtroom.

The gallery, with its rows of seats, stretched out before them. The anticipation in the air was palpable, as spectators filled the room, eager to witness the unfolding events. Lawyers and representatives from various factions gathered, strategizing and discussing their cases in hushed tones.

Ragnar and Greed took their positions, standing before the elevated podium reserved for the High Councilor. 

As the room filled with anticipation, Ragnar and Greed stood resolute, awaiting the start of the hearing. Their hearts were filled with determination to achieve their two objectives.

First, they needed to establish Wrath's innocence by presenting compelling evidence and testimonies to refute the accusations against her. They were prepared to make a convincing case, leaving no room for doubt about her involvement in the alleged crimes.

Second, they aimed to implicate Lucien for his use of the artifact bomb that had caused chaos in the city. They had gathered substantial evidence and witnesses to shed light on his malevolent actions and ensure that he faced the consequences.

They didn't have to wait long before the judge made their entrance into the courtroom. Two floating platforms glided toward the door on the third floor, ready to receive the distinguished figures.

The first to step onto the platform was none other than Envy, adorned in a resplendent Victorian-style purple dress and adorned with golden accessories in her hair. Her presence exuded an aura of grandeur and authority, befitting her role as a Grand Councilor.

However, the appearance of the second Grand Councilor, who would serve as the judge, came as an unwelcome surprise to Ragnar and Greed. It became clear that this particular Grand Councilor belonged to the same faction as the Alchemont clan and Lucien. 

Cyrus Ashborne, one of the three most powerful mages known for his extremist tendencies, was known to be unbound by morality and willing to go to any lengths to further his power. If it meant sacrificing half the Earth's population, he wouldn't hesitate to do so.

He was dressed in a red shirt, a black suit, and a long black magician's robe that draped over his attire. Despite appearing to be in his late 50s, his neatly kept white hair, short beard, and high cheekbones lent him an air of gentility. There was a certain masculine charm about him, even though his physique lacked the muscular build of Ragnar.

The lineup of the five other judges who occupied positions on the High Council revealed that most of them hailed from the same faction as the Alchemont clan. Ragnar understood that the odds of implicating Lucien were slim given the composition of the judges. However, Greed remained unfazed, a smile playing on her lips, for she had anticipated this outcome.

Within the mage societies, there exist three distinct factions. The first is the 'Path of Knowledge' faction, led by Cyrus Ashborn. This faction boasts the largest membership, as its members strive to acquire knowledge without constraints, delving deeper into the mysteries of magic.

The second faction is the polar opposite, known as the 'Magic Harmony' faction. Under the leadership of Envy, their goal is to restore the golden age of magic and resurrect ancient wisdom while upholding a delicate balance between magic and science. 

Their ultimate aim is to create a magical civilization that serves the betterment of humanity. However, due to their emphasis on harmony and preservation of life, their numbers are relatively small compared to the other factions.

The third and final faction is known as the Golden Scale. Their purpose is to maintain equilibrium and order between the two opposing factions. The identity of their enigmatic Grand Councilor, who prefers to remain concealed, is known only to a select few within their ranks and their fellow Grand Councilors.

Cyrus cleared his throat, projecting his mana-filled and authoritative voice to reach every ear in the court.

"Welcome, esteemed members of the mage court. Today, we gather to address a matter of utmost importance—the accused's alleged violation of the iron law of the Hightower, resulting in the loss of a councilor's life.contemporary romance

Remember, this court exists to maintain order and uphold our hierarchy. Our pursuit is not just justice, but also the preservation of the delicate balance of power within our society.

Personal sympathies and allegiances hold no weight in this chamber. Our judgments are founded on evidence and the law. Any attempts at manipulation or deceit will be met with severe consequences.

Approach this hearing with the gravity it deserves. Clarity, fairness, and the integrity of our mage society are of utmost importance. Let the proceedings commence under the weight of our authority.

May truth prevail as we administer justice accordingly." With these words, Cyrus opened the court hearing.

After Cyrus spoke, Envy turned her attention to Greed.

"Miss Greed, this hearing has been convened based on the petition submitted by both you and Lord Ragnar Stenmark. The petition asserts that Miss Wrath, currently held captive within the Willow family, is not guilty of the crime of killing Victor Justius, a respected member of the Hightower council.

According to your petition, you claim that Victor is still alive and that the person killed was actually his body double, who was working under Councilor Lucien Blackscar. Is this correct, Miss Greed?" Envy inquired.

"Yes, Your Honor. That was the essence of the first part of my petition," Greed replied, nodding in affirmation.

Envy acknowledged Greed's response and then turned her gaze to Cyrus, who nodded, granting his approval for her to proceed..

"The second part of your petition accuses Councilor Lucien Blackscar of inadvertently exposing the existence of the Curtained World to the general public. Is that also accurate?" Envy sought confirmation.

As Envy mentioned the exposure of the Curtained World, murmurs erupted in the courtroom, indicating the gravity of this accusation, which was considered far more severe than the crime of killing a councilor.

"Indeed, Your Honor," Greed affirmed with a nod.

Envy turned her attention to the witness stand and addressed Klause and Yuki. "Please proceed with your testimonies and provide a detailed account of the events that transpired."

Klause and Yuki rose from their seats and approached the witness stand. They were visibly nervous but determined to share their version of the events. They took their oaths and began recounting what they had witnessed leading up to Victor's death.

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