Chapter Seventy Seven

Ruby:

I found myself sitting in a cell, as Mr. Smith had ordered, while we all awaited the arrival of the chief spirit judge. Unfortunately for me, as Mr. Smith was still the council president, his authority meant that no one could oppose him.

On the bright side, this cell was far more comfortable than the first one I had been in.

Even though I had experienced a brief victory, I knew I wasn't out of danger yet. I could only hope that Damian would come to my rescue before Lilith got her way.

After what felt like an eternity, the cell door creaked open, and the elder with white hair walked in, scratching his chin before clearing his throat. He still had an air of authority around him, but I could tell he was here to deliver news I wouldn't be pleased to hear.

"We were unable to reach the chief spirit judge," he announced, shattering the last bit of hope I had. "Despite our best efforts, he remains out of contact. Therefore, we have no choice but to proceed with the trial immediately wit