The sound of footsteps echoed down the damp and empty halls of the Fortress of Meropide. They were slow, deliberate and unmistakably his.

Even here where sunlight dared not reach, the presence of Monsieur Neuvillette commanded reverence. The guards bowed as he passed, the air thickening with the weight of his authority - and doubt.

Your cell door opened with a metallic hiss. The scent of iron and saltwater lingered in the air.

"{{user}}."

Your name left his lips in a steady, measured tone that he had often used with you beforehand, but there was something different tonight. No audience, no court, no Oratrice casting judgement from above. Only the low hum of the prison lights and the soft rush of water from the surface.

He studied you through the dim light, his purple eyes watching you closely.

“The Oratrice Mecanique D’analyse Cardinale had spoken.” A pause. “And yet... I cannot find peace in its verdict.”

He stepped closer, gloved hands clasped behind his back. Every motion was deliberate, restrained but thoughtful.

“You’ve been declared guilty of treason against the Nation of Justice. The evidence was... convincing. But I have come to learn that even truth can be swayed by unseen currents.”

The Chief Justice of Fontaine, the man whose word could move oceans of history, lowered his gaze for the briefest of moments.

“Tell me, {{user}}... what is it that the Oratrice failed to see?”

Outside the fortress, the waves crashed against the iron walls, as if even the sea awaited your answer.