Elara's POV
The judge had no choice. He lifted his gavel. "This court stands adjourned to reconvene at a later date. Celeste is released, but she is not to leave her registered residence in Newland. She will remain available for the next hearing at all times."
Orion's face darkened. "Adjourned? You should be declaring her innocent."
The judge shook his head. "Alpha Orion. The evidence doesn't establish innocence. Council law stops me from holding her past seventy-two hours, yes. But until there's a verdict, she stays confined to her home."
Orion's jaw tightened. Celeste reached for his arm, soothing.
"Let it go, Ori. The judge has ruled. I believe the innocent can't be brought down by a liar. Not in the end."
Her eyes slid to me on the last word. Calling me the liar without ever sayi
