The proceedings had reached their conclusion. Astrid had successfully secured a life sentence for Simon and Dianna Ainsley on multiple charges, while simultaneously mitigating the fallout for Silas Ainsley, just as Professor Vanitas had instructed.
The High Council and Parliament had agreed the severity of the case warranted nothing less. Anything softer would have unsettled the public further.
——Silas Ainsley! How could you!?
Simon's furious voice echoed through the hall as he was led away. Dianna Ainsley, meanwhile, found herself speechless, her expression blank in the face of her son's betrayal.
And yet, despite the bitterness in their words, a lump formed in Silas's throat. No matter how deeply one resented their parents, watching them sentenced to life in prison was not easy to bear.
As the two were escorted out of the House of Justice, Charlotte stood, somewhat satisfied with the outcome.
