**Clarissa’s POV**
I've been sitting in the hall for almost an hour, waiting for Cornelius to arrive. My anxiety bubbles beneath the surface, and I can't help but fidget, my fingers tapping nervously on the armrest of my chair. Every member of the council of elders is also waiting for him; it's not just me. The trial was over today, and the council has prepared a rejection ceremony to finally set me free. They also want me to specify the kind of punishment I want for Cornelius, but there's a limitation to what I can choose. Of course, because he's still a prince at the end of the day.
I'm happy to be the one who will reject Cornelius instead of him rejecting me. At the same time, I'm sad because I will be the one to initiate the rejection. I will be breaking a sacred bond by myself, and
