In the grand courtroom, where the high walls witness every story told and every secret concealed, the girl entered with heavy steps, shackled in chains. Her features were pale, but she did not lose her dignity. Her eyes reflected defiance and strength despite all she had endured, as if declaring to the world that she would not be broken easily.

Judge Zakros sat at his high podium, observing the scene with piercing eyes. He was known for his strictness and the calm authority that intimidated everyone, but he couldn’t stop himself from pausing and thinking when his eyes met the girl's unwavering gaze.

As the chains bound her wrists, she tried in a sudden movement to pull her hands free, as though challenging her restraints. Before she could complete her action, one of the guards beside her intervened and returned her to her place. Her body shook slightly, but she made no sound. She lifted her head again, her eyes blazing with defiance.

In a barely audible voice, she muttered to herself, but the guard caught her words: "Damn you, idiot."

The guard turned to her, but she stood her ground without flinching. The judge raised his voice, saying, "Enough, it’s not your place to intervene."

Despite all she had suffered, the girl looked at Zakros with resolve. There was no fear in her gaze, only a mix of defiance and patience.

"Speak," Zakros said in a calm but firm voice.