Two days after the new regulations were introduced, it was time for the year-end trials.
Lina's case was also scheduled to be heard that afternoon.
Although the unrest in the city had ended, the case still drew enormous attention.
For temporary residents in particular, it held special significance.
With the bill passed, Lina's acquittal was a foregone conclusion!
Countless people were waiting for the moment she regained her freedom!
This would surely be a milestone!
Media outlets had long since gathered outside the courthouse, and the crowds of onlookers had packed the entire street solid.
The courthouse stood directly opposite Giantwood Tower. Number One watched the crowds below, without the slightest trace of a smile on her face.
She understood that this was a victory for those at the bottom.
Their victory had come from her defeat in the political maneuvering as their ruler.
The more excited and proud the crowd became, the more defeated Number One felt.
So she chose to leave, driving out to inspect a factory in the outskirts. Out of sight, out of mind.
Inside the courthouse, meanwhile, the trial was closed to the public. Reporters and other uninvolved people were not allowed in.
Only a handful of people sat scattered across the gallery.
Lina saw her father, Charles, as well as Stelle and March 7th.
But she did not see Kafka or Silver Wolf.
Lina seemed to understand. Kafka and Silver Wolf must have gone to take care of that matter.
Today really was the perfect opportunity.
Those two would be free, too...
A heartfelt smile spread across Lina's face.
Seeing this, the judge assumed the young woman was smiling because she was about to regain her freedom, so he smiled at Lina as well.
He struck his gavel and declared the trial in session.