"Today's proceedings in the trial of the Boiling Isles vs. Oscura have concluded, though a final verdict remains pending. Significant revelations were brought to light, many of which had been kept from the public eye. Luz Noceda, also known as Empress Oscura, has long been labelled as a tyrant, a villain, and a monster. Yet, we seem to have forgotten that she was once a young human girl, eager to learn magic like us, with the simple goal of using it for good. She fearlessly saved us from the rule of Emperor Belos, but rather than celebrate her victory, we quickly denounced her, influenced by the very system Belos used to control us. While this doesn't absolve her of the actions she later took, it does offer important context that challenges the narrative we've accepted until now."

Luz was escorted back to her cell. Thanks to Legal Eagle's intervention, she didn't have to wear chains while in holding, and he had made sure her stay would at least be bearable. Still, her nights were lonely, and she would have much rather spent them with Amity.

Leaning against the cold wall, Luz sighed. Her thoughts wandered back to high school. People always expected her to become a delinquent, maybe even end up in jail one day. After all, she had released snakes during a book report and set off firecrackers indoors — neither of which was exactly safe.

"Guess they were right," she muttered bitterly. "I did end up in prison…just in another world."

'Oh, now you're getting all introspective? How charming,' Oscura taunted.

"Not really in the mood for you right now," Luz replied, her voice flat.

'Tch. Don't act tough, chica. You can't pretend the past doesn't sting. I felt it too.'

Luz exhaled, her shoulders slumping. She thought she had gotten stronger, but recalling everything in court — especially in front of Amity — was harder than she anticipated. The memory of hurting the person she loved most, putting her in a coma... It twisted her stomach in knots. Until then, she had never believed herself capable of causing anyone harm. Accidents, sure, but not like that. Never intentionally.

It had all come out in one explosive moment — desperation, rage, and pain.

'I gotta say, though... Boscha's meltdown? Priceless.' Oscura's chuckle echoed in her mind.

"As helpful as it was for our case, I feel a little bad for her," Luz admitted.

'Seriously? You feel bad for that bitch? She almost raped our fiancée! She tried to steal a kiss and who knows what else before we stepped in! And don't forget, she also drugged Sasha with a potion meant for Amity!'

"I'm not excusing what she did," Luz said defensively. "But until she touched that ID Core, she probably would've just lived whatever life she had as normal. Now, though, everyone knows what she did. I just wish it hadn't ended like this."

'Whatever. People like her don't change. Ever.'

Luz chuckled dryly.

"You should know."

'Screw you.'

"Ah, how Freudian. Is that what you've been wanting all this time?"

'You really don't wanna go there, chica. I live in your head.'

Luz winced, quickly backpedalling.

"Okay, okay, I take it back."

'That's what I thought.'

Still, Luz found herself scanning the cell, wishing for anyone else's company — someone other than Oscura's constant voice.

"I wish Amity were here…" She gazed through the bars at the silent Abomatons guarding her cell. "I've gotten used to having someone close, like Vee. Guess we're sisters in that way too."

"Luz…"

Startled, Luz looked up. A cloaked figure approached her cell, and she instinctively got into a defensive stance. Without her Driver, she was vulnerable. She could still use her glyph magic, but only if she was willing to use her blood as ink — a last resort.

The figure pulled back their hood, revealing a head of pink hair and warm, familiar eyes.

"Amity?!" Luz gasped.

"Hola, mi batata," Amity greeted, smiling softly.

Luz's tension melted away as she rushed to the bars, slipping her arms through to pull Amity into an awkward but much-needed hug.

"How did you get down here? Mr. Eagle said I wasn't allowed visitors," Luz asked, surprised.

"He made it happen," Amity explained. "But there were…conditions."

Luz stepped back, worry creeping into her expression.

"What kind of conditions?" Amity removed her cloak, revealing a simple sleeveless beige shirt and matching shorts. Around her neck was a black choker, mounted with glowing crystals at each side. "What's with the outfit? And that collar?"

"In order to see you, I had to relinquish my clothes for these so they could make sure I wasn't hiding anything," Amity clarified. "They also scanned me for illusion magic, and this collar cancels any spells I try to cast."

Amity attempted to summon an Abomination, and the crystals on the choker glowed before unleashing a sharp jolt of electricity through her body. She let out a pained cry and fell to her knees.

"Amity!" Luz cried, kneeling beside her, panic rising.

"I'm okay," Amity gasped, raising a hand. "It just…hurts."

"Please don't do that again! Just tell me next time!" Luz pleaded.

Amity gave a weak smile.

"It's a small price to pay to be with you." She turned to the Abomaton standing nearby. "Let me in."

The Abomaton nodded, opening the cell door. Once Amity entered, it locked her inside and resumed its watchful stance.

"This is my conjugal visit," Amity stated, stepping closer to Luz. "I can stay as long as I want, under the same conditions as you."

Luz shook her head.

"You don't have to do this. You should be with your family."

Amity's expression dimmed.

"We're…not exactly on the best terms right now. They're still grappling with everything that happened before." Luz winced, the weight of that conversation hanging heavy. "So, for now, I'm staying with you."

Luz wrapped her arms around her fiancée and kissed her, a slow, lingering kiss to make up for lost time. When they parted, Luz rested her forehead against Amity's, staring into her golden eyes.

"I love you, mi amor," Luz whispered. "I'm so glad you're here, even if it's just for tonight."

Amity sighed softly, brushing a strand of hair behind Luz's ear.

"I couldn't let you be alone in here…not with her rattling around in your head."

'Ouch, that hurts,' Oscura mockingly chimed in.

Luz rolled her eyes.

"I know. But promise me, no matter how this ends, you'll talk to your family. I don't want you leaving things unresolved."

Amity hesitated, then kissed Luz again.

"Fine, I'll try. But if they don't come around, I'll disown them and then I'll be a Noceda instead."

Luz chuckled.

"I'll take what I can get. So, my sweet potato, you planning any prison role-play while we're in here?"

"As much as I'd love that..." Amity trailed off dryly. "One of the conditions was…"

"Don't say it," Luz groaned.

"No sex."

"Nooooooo!" Luz wailed dramatically. "My hot fiancée is practically naked, and they expect me to behave? This is torture!"

"You're not the only one suffering," Amity deadpanned.

Luz grinned, shrugging.

"I guess we can settle for some cuddling. We'll make up for it later."

Amity rolled her eyes, slipping into bed beside Luz.

"Already planning for later, huh?"

"For you? Always."

The two girls lay down, Amity nestled in while Luz held her close from behind. As they relaxed into each other, the weight of the day began to lift. For the first time in what felt like forever, Luz's mind was quiet — even Oscura seemed content to stay silent.

The flight back to the Owl House felt longer than usual. Eda had just picked up Lil' Luz from her parents, and the atmosphere was heavy. Neither she nor King said much, the weight of the trial looming over them. Thankfully, her parents hadn't watched the broadcast, sparing Lil' Luz from hearing things that a young witchling wasn't ready to know.

As they arrived home, Eda let King and Lil' Luz enter first, trailing behind them. Once inside, she sighed deeply, walking straight to the couch. She kicked off her boots and collapsed onto the cushions, grateful that Luz had lifted the Owl Beast curse years ago — because after today, Eda was sure she would've transformed and gone on a rampage.

Eda's mind drifted back to the trial, replaying every moment in her head until she felt a gentle tug at her skirt. She glanced down and saw Lil' Luz looking up at her with curious eyes.

"What is it, witchlet?" Eda asked, softening her tone.

"Why can't Big Sis stay with us?" the young girl asked, her voice tinged with confusion.

Eda sighed, picking up Lil' Luz and settling her on the couch beside her. She knew this conversation was coming, and it wasn't one she wanted to have.

"Your Big Sis is in a bit of trouble, witchlet. She has to stay in jail for a while."

"Jail?!" Lil' Luz exclaimed, eyes wide. "But she's not bad! It's not fair!"

Eda nodded, rubbing her daughter's back.

"No, it's not. But sometimes the law doesn't always see things the way we do."

King, who had been quietly sulking, piped up.

"Can't we just break her out? We've done it before."

"Not this time, King." Eda's voice was heavy with regret.

In the past, she wouldn't have hesitated. A jailbreak, some wild magic, and a mad dash for freedom were her usual go-to solutions. But this time was different. Breaking Luz out now would ruin her chances at a fair trial. Plus, with Lil' Luz, King, and Raine depending on her, Luz would never forgive herself if Eda ended up in prison for her.

"For now, we have to let things play out and hope people see the truth," Eda sighed, her voice calm but weary. "And you know Luz would be mad at us if we went rogue."

King grumbled in frustration, but deep down, he knew Eda was right. It wasn't just about them anymore. The risk of losing both his big and little sisters was too much for even the King of Demons to handle.

"It's not fair," King muttered, stomping his foot.

"I know, kiddo. Believe me, I know." Eda leaned back against the couch just as the door creaked open.

"I'm home," Raine announced, stepping in with exhaustion written all over their face.

Eda sat up slightly, concern knitting her brow.

"How bad was it?"

Raine collapsed onto the couch beside her.

"We argued in circles all day. And we have to go back for more tomorrow."

Eda frowned, but there was a sliver of hope in her voice.

"If they're still arguing, that means they haven't made up their minds yet. That's something, at least."

Raine smiled faintly.

"True, but it's still hard to wrap my head around the whole thing. A secret otherworldly organization forcing people to fight for a wish? It sounds like something out of a bad novel."

"Yeah, well, to humans, we're the stuff of fairy tales," Eda quipped. "But how else do you explain Luz, Amity, and those other humans ending up in the Demon Realm? We destroyed the portal years ago. And don't forget the Kamen Riders — they were the ones who saved Luz and us all."

Raine sighed, nodding.

"You're right. It's just hard for some of the Council to believe. Some think Luz is making it all up. But then Ms. Barbtalone had her little meltdown, and now they're reconsidering."

Eda raised an eyebrow.

"That was just day one. Titan knows what day two's gonna bring."

Lil' Luz, who had been quietly absorbing the conversation, finally spoke up.

"Will Big Sis come back home?"

Eda pulled her daughter close, pressing a kiss to the top of her head.

"I hope so, witchlet. I really do."

Sasha and Marcy were staying with the Blights. While they could easily return to the Desire Temple's lounge, it just did not feel right to leave Luz behind.

"Should we call her?" Marcy asked, glancing at Sasha. They were given a room to share, an arrangement that neither of them objected to.

"Do you think she'll even pick up?" Sasha questioned back, staring down at her Spider Phone. "You know how she sticks to the rules."

"Yeah, but these are unique circumstances," Marcy reasoned. "I mean, Tsumuri wouldn't want to see a player killed outside the competition, right? We've built a pretty good rapport with her."

"Maybe, but she's met so many players over the years. I doubt she's gotten attached to any of them," Sasha said, her tone sceptical. "I don't think she'll risk herself for us, even if we ask."

Marcy crossed her arms, determination flickering in her eyes.

"We have to at least try, Sasha."

Sasha sighed and pressed the call button, but before it could even ring, Tsumuri appeared in front of them, materializing out of thin air.

"Whoa, that was fast," Marcy noted, wide-eyed.

"Tsumuri, I was just about to call you. We have a situation," Sasha said, urgency in her voice.

"I'm already aware of that, Ms. Waybright," Tsumuri cut in smoothly. "In fact, the entire DGP is."

"What do you mean?" Marcy posed, her brow furrowed.

Sasha's expression darkened.

"They're watching, aren't they?" she said flatly.

Tsumuri's slight nod confirmed it.

"The Game Master has decided to broadcast the trial to our audience. He thinks the drama will boost the ratings."

"What about the rule against exposing the DGP?" Marcy asked, her voice sharp.

"We've crossed that line already, Ms. Wu," Tsumuri replied matter-of-factly.

Sasha's fists clenched, but she stayed focused.

"We need your help, Tsumuri," Sasha requested. "Luz didn't violate the terms of her banishment — this trial is a sham. You could testify, show the DGP exists, and prove she's not at fault."

Tsumuri hesitated, her usual neutral expression flickering with something like regret.

"I am a navigator. I'm not permitted to interfere in any ongoing games, and that includes this trial."

"But this isn't part of the competition, not really," Marcy argued. "It's a part of Luz's defence, and you're one of the only people who can verify key details about the DGP. You don't have to break the rules to help us."

Tsumuri considered her words carefully. Marcy had a point — the trial wasn't part of the official competition. If it was being broadcasted for ratings, then technically, it wasn't violating the DGP's rules.

"I suppose I can speak in broad terms," Tsumuri conceded slowly. "But I will only provide information relevant to the trial. I can't reveal specifics unless it directly concerns a player."

"That's better than nothing," Sasha accepted, a glimmer of hope sparking in her voice.

Tsumuri gave a brief nod.

"Very well. I'll do what I can. Now, you should get in touch with your legal team. They'll need to know this immediately."

Sasha turned to Marcy, determination clear in her eyes.

"Let's call Mr. Eagle. He needs to hear this."

Terra lounged on her lavish new couch, a smug smile tugging at her lips. The image of Oscura squirming during the trial replayed in her mind, sending a thrill down her spine. The proceedings had been cut short, but she relished the promise of tomorrow's entertainment.

Beside her, Adrian flexed his newly transformed fingers. His initial rage over Terra's betrayal had simmered down, replaced by a grudging appreciation for his monstrous new form. His eyes gleamed with malice as he imagined the vengeance this power would allow.

Their surroundings were a testament to Terra's newfound influence — fine fabrics, furniture fit for royalty, and a crystal ball pulsing with magic. She hadn't spent a single snail to get it all — enthralled servants had showered her with luxury.

"Ah, wonderful, wonderful. You both are progressing nicely."

A voice cut through the air, sharp and unfamiliar. Terra and Adrian shot to their feet, her fingers sparking with magic as they scanned the room for the intruder.

An old man emerged from the kitchen, his appearance almost absurdly plain — green shirt, worn overalls, and a straw hat perched on his bald head. His face was creased with a gentle smile, stubble framing his jaw, round ears unmistakably human.

"Who the hell are you?" Terra snarled, her magic ready to strike.

The man didn't flinch, his smile unwavering.

"Oh, just a humble gardener, my children."

"We're not your children!" Adrian spat, venom dripping from his voice.

The old man took a step forward, his eyes twinkling behind his thick glasses.

"Are you so sure? Search your feelings. You know it's true."

Terra and Adrian tensed, but found themselves hesitating. There was something unsettlingly familiar about him, something that gnawed at the edges of their minds.

"Who…are you?" Terra's voice softened, the confidence slipping away.

"Like I said, a humble gardener. But you may call me Archimedel," he introduced, his smile deepening.

Adrian's eyes narrowed.

"Why did you call us your 'children'?"

Archimedel chuckled softly.

"Because you are Jyamatos, are you not? And all Jyamatos are my children."

The word 'Jyamatos' struck a chord in both Terra and Adrian, like a switch had been flipped. They exchanged uneasy glances, a shared sense of something long-buried surfacing.

Terra swallowed, her earlier bravado replaced with cautious curiosity.

"What do you want from us?"

Archimedel spread his arms wide, his voice gentle but brimming with promise.

"Why to nurture you, of course. You've only just begun to bloom, my dears. And there's so much more I can show you."

The second day of the trial had arrived, and the courtroom buzzed with excitement. It wasn't the kind of excitement one would expect for such serious proceedings, but after the bombshell revelations and Boscha's dramatic outburst the previous day, the reporters and audience were on edge, eager to see what would unfold. The tension rippled far beyond the courtroom, captivating those watching at home. The revelations about Oscura — the dark past that shaped her, her fall from a ruler with good intentions to a tyrant bent on destruction — had stirred the public. Curiosity simmered. How did she descend into such madness? But everyone knew it would take time before those answers surfaced. In the meantime, they anticipated more surprises to come.

Amity sat behind Luz, having spent the night comforting her fiancée. Thankfully, Amity had brought her courtroom attire, allowing her to freshen up before the day began. Her family sat nearby, but there was a wide gap between them. Their faces were apologetic, yet tinged with unease whenever they glanced at Luz.

Willow leaned closer and whispered, "Is everything alright with your family?"

Amity gave a tight-lipped response, "We're fine. We just need to work through some things. But right now, Luz and this trial are what matter."

The answer didn't sit well with Willow, and judging by the look on Luz's face, it didn't sit well with her either.

Once the Council members were seated, the trial resumed. Bradward, eager to regain control after yesterday's fiasco, began calling witnesses. Coven Scouts from the Emperor's Coven took the stand, recounting the attacks on the Conformatorium and Luz's infamous solo raid on the Emperor's Castle.

Luz shrank into her seat as the Scouts spoke, recalling their last moments before she wiped them all out. It was one thing to have caused so much destruction in the heat of battle, but hearing about it from the voices of those she had killed — and were now brought back — felt like her nightmares had come to life.

Bradward felt confident, despite the setbacks. He'd wanted to call Terra Snapdragon and Adrian Vernworth Greye to testify, but they were nowhere to be found. No one dared seek them out either. Still, Bradward had a card up his sleeve.

"The prosecution recalls Boscha Barbtalone to the stand," he announced.

"WHAT?!" Luz, Gus, Willow, and nearly everyone on Luz's side gasped in unison.

The audience stirred with confusion. Why would Bradward bring back such an unstable witness after yesterday's outburst?

"Order!" Darius barked. "Mr. Buzzard, are you aware that this witness is currently in custody after her attack in this courtroom?"

"I am, Your Honours," Bradward replied calmly. "But new information has surfaced regarding the otherworldly, wish-granting competition that Mr. Eagle mentioned. It seems Ms. Barbtalone was, as Mr. Eagle stated, a contestant in this competition. Her testimony is crucial to understanding what Oscura has been doing during her four-year absence. Since my colleague opened this line of inquiry, it's only fair that we continue it."

The Council members deliberated briefly before Darius spoke.

"We will allow it, but tread carefully, Mr. Buzzard."

The courtroom doors creaked open, and Boscha was led in by an Abomaton, her hands cuffed, a magic-dampening choker wrapped around her neck. Her miserable appearance drew no sympathy from Amity, Gus, Willow, or anyone else on Luz's side. Only Luz looked upon her with a sliver of pity, though her mind raced with worry over what Boscha might reveal about the Desire Grand Prix.

Once Boscha was seated, Bradward approached.

"Ms. Barbtalone, how are you feeling?"

Boscha sneered.

"I've been better, considering the circumstances."

Bradward nodded, unfazed.

"Understandable, given yesterday's outburst. Unfortunately, these measures are necessary for everyone's safety."

"If anyone here should be in chains, it should be that–!" Boscha started, her voice dripping with venom.

"Watch yourself, Ms. Barbtalone," Mason warned sharply.

"–that monster over there," Boscha hatefully finished, her eyes blazing as she glared at Luz. "She's more dangerous than any of you realize!"

"Ms. Barbtalone." Bradward began pacing. "My colleague suggested that there is an organization that draws participants into a competition, with the prize being anything the victor desires. Is this true?"

Boscha shot a venomous look toward Luz, then at the others whom she recalled from the competition.

"Yeah, it's true. It's called the 'Desire Grand Prix'. They've got technology and power beyond anything we could imagine. I'd even go as far as to say they might be more powerful than Oscura herself. They can grant any wish — no matter how impossible."

The crowd murmured, hanging on Boscha's every word. Bradward pressed on.

"Any wish? Like what, for example?"

"Anything," Boscha repeated coldly. "You want to go back in time and undo a mistake? Done. Want to be the most powerful being in existence? Easy. Want to rule the world and rewrite everyone's memories to think you were always in charge? They can do that. Even life and death — they can bring people back as easily as breathing."

The room fell silent as this revelation sank in. Even Bradward needed a moment to absorb it. The people of the Boiling Isles believed in the power of the Titan, the god-like being from which their world was born. But to hear of beings that could manipulate time, space, and life itself — on a whim — was terrifying.

"What is the purpose of this 'Desire Grand Prix'?" Bradward resumed, his voice lower now.

"For them, it's entertainment," Boscha spat. "We fight for their amusement, and the winner gets a wish when they get to the end. That's why Oscura is even more dangerous now since she's a player too!" She shot to her feet, pointing directly at Luz. "If she wins, she can wish for anything she wants, and we'd be powerless to stop her! She could rewrite reality so that she's always been in control, and none of us would even remember the truth!"

A chill settled over the room. Bradward gulped, regaining his composure.

"But she has to win first, correct?"

"Yes," Boscha confirmed. "That's why I, Park, Porter and those two humans with Oscura were playing, so we could get that wish. Amity ended up joining a little later after Park dropped out."

Bradward glanced at Willow, Gus, Amity and the two humans who sat in the courtroom.

"And what was Oscura's wish?"

Boscha scoffed.

"Some BS about bringing back a dead girl from the last season."

Sasha stood abruptly, her face flushed with anger.

"Screw you, you psycho!"

"Order in the court!" Mason commanded.

Marcy quickly grabbed Sasha's arm, trying to calm her down.

"We're sorry! Sasha, please, sit down!"

Sasha glowered at Boscha, her fists clenched as memories of the last season came flooding back. After a tense moment, she sat down, still fuming.

Boscha smirked, turning back to Bradward.

"That's what happens when you lose. Oscura killed that girl. And not just her — Odalia Blight, too."

Gasps echoed through the courtroom.

"Odalia Blight?" Bradward asked, his voice tinged with disbelief. "Oscura killed her, was she not?"

"She was," Boscha confirmed. "Right in front of her own family too. But Oscura wasn't satisfied with just killing her once. She did it again during the DGP." Boscha stood once more, pointing at Luz with conviction. "Now do you see? If Oscura wins, she'll rewrite reality and we'll all be her slaves, ruling both the Demon and Human Realms. You must find her guilty and stop her before it's too late!"

Bradward smiled, confident that Boscha's testimony had sealed his case.

"No further questions, Your Honours."

"Redirect, Your Honours," Legal interjected smoothly.

"Proceed," Raine allowed with a nod.

Legal stood, walking confidently toward the witness stand.

"That's quite a claim you're making, Ms. Barbtalone. You're accusing my client of wanting to rule over the two realms with a single wish?"

"It's the truth!" Boscha shot back. "No matter what she says, we all know what she's really like. What she really wants."

"Mmm-hmm," Legal sceptically murmured, pacing before the witness. "You testified that you, Ms. Park, Mr. Porter, and the former Mrs. Blight were recruited alongside my client's human friends, correct?"

"I did."

"I was informed that Sasha Waybright, Marcy Wu, and Amity Blight were contestants during the previous season, is this true?"

"Yeah, they were."

"And is it true Ms. Noceda was a contestant as well during this time?"

"Yes," Boscha answered tersely, losing patience with this lawyer.

"Then, did she win?"

Boscha hesitated, her silence filling the courtroom.

"Ms. Barbtalone," Legal pressed on. "Did my client win the previous competition? The one before you participated?"

Boscha remained silent, her jaw clenched.

"Your Honours?" Legal glanced toward the bench.

"Ms. Barbtalone, you're under oath. Answer the question," Vitimir ordered.

"It's either that, or we'll compel you to," Hettie sternly warned.

Boscha growled in frustration.

"Yes…she won the last time."

Gasps rippled through the audience, the revelation sending shockwaves of fear about what Oscura might have wished for.

Legal seized the moment.

"So, my client had her wish granted. Do you know what she wished for?"

"Yes…dammit," Boscha muttered.

"And what was it?" Legal's tone softened, though his eyes remained sharp.

"She…" Boscha faltered, visibly struggling. "She wished…ugh… She wished for the people who were killed during her reign to be brought back to life." Being forced to speak the truth about Oscura winning felt like all of her teeth were being pulled out. Being forced to reveal Oscura's wish felt like she wanted to vomit in Legal's face in retaliation. She absolutely hated every single moment of it as well as the lawyer.

Another wave of gasps swept through the room. Even the judges exchanged stunned glances, while Bradward's jaw practically hit the floor.

"So, you're saying..." Legal continued. "...that my client was responsible for The Great Return — the reason everyone who died at her hands, and those of her Phantom army, was brought back to life after four years?"

"Yes," Boscha admitted, a bitter growl in her voice. She wanted to spit in Legal's face really badly right now.

"And when you claimed she had some 'BS' wish to bring back a dead girl from a previous competition, that means she was planning to use her second chance in the game to revive someone else?" Legal raised an eyebrow. "Doesn't sound like someone seeking to 'rule the two worlds,' Ms. Barbtalone. If anything, it shows someone full of remorse, trying to make amends for her past."

Legal Eagle paced to the centre of the courtroom, addressing everyone.

"I urge you all to think about that. My client is solely responsible for bringing back your departed loved ones. She never sought recognition, never expected a 'thank you.' She didn't even believe she'd return to this world to see the results of her actions. She acted without expecting glory, hoping only that her wish would work. It was Willow Park and Augustus Porter who confirmed her deed."

"Tch! Oh, now she's a saint?" Boscha sneered. "She's still a murderer! She doesn't get credit for cleaning up the mess she made!"

"Indeed, you have a point," Legal conceded. "My client is no saint. None of us here are. Luz Noceda is just a normal girl thrown into extraordinary circumstances, doing what she can to navigate them. She made mistakes, yes. And now, years later, she's trying to right those wrongs. As for Odalia Blight's fate, we'll get to that later. Remember what I've said when we reach that point — no one here is a saint. Not even Odalia Blight. And lastly, without a doubt, most certainly not you."

Boscha growled at Legal's last words directed at her, feeling the urge to kill rising.

"Abomatons, escort the witness back to her cell," Lilith ordered.

As the robotic Abominations complied, Boscha stood, throwing a venomous glare at Luz before being led out of the courtroom.

Bradward watched in stunned silence. Oscura was the one behind The Great Return? The one who brought back all those who had died four years ago? It didn't make sense. Oscura could've used her wish for power, for dominion over their world. Yet she chose to revive the dead. And now she was trying to do the same for a fallen competitor? Something wasn't adding up. Still, Bradward had to play up the angle of Oscura being a ruthless killer. Bringing back the dead didn't erase the fact that she had killed them in the first place. He had the perfect witness to back him up.

"The prosecution calls to the stand…Dell Clawthorne!" Bradward announced again.

"DAD?!" Lilith and Eda exclaimed in unison.

The doors to the courtroom opened, and Dell Clawthorne walked in, using his Palisman Toast as a walking stick. Eda rushed to her father's side, guiding him to the witness stand.

"Dad, you didn't tell me you were coming! What about Lil' Luz?" Eda asked in a low voice.

"Mr. Buzzard's office summoned both of us, but I argued that we were watching over our granddaughter. I opted to come alone. It doesn't take two of us to recount what happened," Dell replied gently.

"Dad…about Oscura — about Luz…she's—"

"Worry not, my little witchlet. It'll be alright," Dell reassured her with a soft smile.

As they passed the defence table, Dell glanced at Luz, who stared back with her eyes wide. The old man winked with his good eye before continuing to the witness stand. After he was sworn in, Eda returned to her seat.

"Please state your name and occupation for the court record," Bradward began.

"My name is Dell Clawthorne. I'm a Palisman carver, from a long line of carvers."

"I imagine you've crafted many Palismen in your lifetime, Mr. Clawthorne?"

"Oh yes, many," Dell confirmed with a nod.

"Were you aware that your youngest daughter, Edalyn Clawthorne, had taken in a human girl?" Bradward pressed on.

"No, but at the time, we weren't exactly on speaking terms. My youngest was cursed, and an accident caused the injuries you see today. That had put a strain on our relationship. So, no, my wife and I did not know she had taken in a human."

"And why were you and your wife killed by Oscura's Phantoms? Some say it's odd, considering Oscura seemed to favour those she was close to before her reign."

Dell's expression hardened.

"We didn't know our connection to her until the Phantoms arrived. But we're a stubborn pair, my wife and I. Despite the good Oscura had done, we didn't approve of her methods. When the Phantoms demanded we pledge allegiance, we refused and were killed as a result."

Bradward smirked.

"It seems Oscura has a pattern of eliminating family members — first Odalia Blight, then the parents of the woman who treated her like a daughter. Even if not by her hand, the Phantoms were an extension of her will."

Luz leaned over to Legal, whispering urgently. Legal's gaze sharpened as he stood abruptly.

"Redirect, Your Honors. I'd like to question Mr. Clawthorne."

Lilith glanced at her father, who gave her a reassuring nod.

"Proceed, Mr. Eagle."

"Mr. Clawthorne, you've just learned — like the rest of us — that Luz Noceda, or Oscura, was responsible for bringing you and many others back to life. Is that correct?" Legal asked.

Dell nodded.

"Yes, I was just as surprised."

"Have you had any recent interaction with my client?"

Dell chuckled.

"We did have a nice chat a few days ago."

The audience stirred, curious, as Eda and Lilith exchanged wide-eyed glances.

"And how did you come across her?" Legal questioned.

"I was out for my usual walk, surrounded by Palismen, as I often am. I went to my usual spot in the woods to relax. That's when I found her. I recognized her immediately, thanks to my daughters' stories and updates. My youngest even named our granddaughter after her — Luz. It means 'light,' you know. A fitting name, as she's truly a ray of light in our lives."

Eda and Luz both sniffled quietly. Bradward frowned, trying to hide his disgust.

"The Palismen sensed her nature right away," Dell continued. "Not one of them shied away from her. They offered their comfort instead. She was in a difficult predicament, carrying a burden far too heavy for someone so young. Trying to right her wrongs. She didn't know what to do. If she was truly the evil monster that people claimed, the Palismen would never have gotten close to her in the first place."

Dell smiled fondly at Luz.

"That's when I introduced myself as her grandfather. She was quite shocked by that, let me tell you."

Legal smiled warmly.

"You already have a granddaughter, so are you saying my client is also like family to you?"

"My Edalyn loves that girl enough to name her daughter after her. Now, after speaking with her, I understand why. So, yes, I see her as my granddaughter too."

"Have you and your wife forgiven her for what happened in the past?"

"We already have," Dell answered without hesitation.

"Thank you, Mr. Clawthorne."

Dell stood up and stepped away from the witness stand. As he walked by the defence table, he smiled warmly at Luz again and she smiled back, glad that she had others supporting her.

"Your Honours, at this time, the prosecution rests," Bradward concluded, his voice steady despite the weight of the moment. Reluctantly, he acknowledged that he was losing ground in winning this case. He had no more witnesses or compelling evidence beyond what he'd already presented. He knew all too well that Legal Eagle was poised to dismantle his arguments, and he could only hope the Titan would help him find a weak spot in the defence.

"Very well. Mr. Eagle, it's your turn," Raine said, signalling the transition.

"Thank you, Your Honour." Legal rose smoothly and turned to the court. "The defence would like to call Sasha Waybright to the stand."

The crowd buzzed with anticipation. Sasha was the third human to have appeared on the Boiling Isles, following the infamous entries of Belos and Oscura. Whispers filled the room, speculating about the role humans had played in Oscura's regime, with some making less-than-innocent suggestions about their connection to the former oppressor.

Unfazed by the murmurs, Sasha confidently made her way across the courtroom and took her place on the witness stand. Legal Eagle approached her, his gaze sharp and calculating.

"Please state your name," Legal requested.

"Sasha Elizabeth Waybright. Captain of the varsity cheerleading team back home, and girlfriend to Marcy Regina Wu," she declared proudly, her voice clear.

Marcy, seated in the audience, blushed, while a few in the crowd let out soft "aww"s.

A handful of demons and witches clicked their tongues in disappointment; evidently, a few had entertained hopes of wooing the human girl themselves. After all, she was strikingly attractive, and some were willing to overlook the whole 'potentially evil' thing for a chance.

Legal pressed on, his voice steady and professional.

"Ms. Waybright, you're a competitor in the Desire Grand Prix, correct?"

"That's right," Sasha confirmed with a nod.

"And that's how you came into contact with the defendant?"

"Yeah, we were all chosen to compete in the Desire Grand Prix. My friends, Anne and Marcy, and I were chosen alongside many others. Luz and Amity were also players. At the time, we didn't know much about them or their history."

Legal shifted gears slightly.

"Could you describe your relationship with the defendant?"

Sasha leaned forward slightly, her competitive edge evident in her voice.

"This probably goes without saying, but I'm a very competitive person. I play to win. So, when the DGP recruited us to compete for a wish that could change our lives, of course, I was going to do everything I could to win."

Her words lingered in the air as the courtroom watched her closely, every detail of her testimony adding another layer to the complex case unfolding before them.

Legal stroked the lower half of his beak thoughtfully.

"You mentioned that you were all competing against each other. Does that mean you were also competing against your two friends?"

"Yeah," Sasha admitted, her voice steady. "But we've been friends since kindergarten. And given that we didn't know anyone else in the competition, the only people we could really trust were each other. Sure, we each had our own wishes, but we formed an alliance. Our plan was to make sure the three of us made it to the finals, and from there, we'd compete against each other for real. Unfortunately…" Sasha's voice trailed off, and she sighed heavily, her expression clouded with regret. "Things didn't turn out that way."

"I can see this troubles you, Ms. Waybright," Legal observed. "You lost someone during the game, didn't you?"

"Yes...dammit." Sasha took a deep breath, fighting to maintain her composure. Despite the time that had passed, and the fact that they were close to getting Anne back, remembering that moment still felt raw. "It was the finals. Marcy had been eliminated, and it was down to the four of us: me, Anne, Luz, and Amity. Our final mission, the one that would determine the winner, was to destroy this massive monster. We weren't prepared for the power that thing had, and..." Sasha clasped her hands together tightly, the tension visible. "During the mission, I got separated from the group, and the monster singled me out. It attacked... By all rights, I should be dead. But Anne...she saved me. She pushed me out of the way at the last second, taking the blow meant for me. I...I watched her die in my arms."

Sasha paused, her voice breaking as tears began to fall. She struggled for control, but the pain was too fresh, too real.

In the audience, Marcy watched, her heart aching. She wanted nothing more than to comfort Sasha, but she knew she couldn't. It made everything harder to witness.

"Do you need a moment, Ms. Waybright?" Legal offered gently, giving her the space to decide.

Sasha shook her head, wiping her tears quickly.

"I'm fine...it's just still...raw. Sorry." She straightened herself and took another breath before continuing. "Anyway, Luz defeated the monster in the end, winning the final round and her wish."

Legal gave her a moment before continuing.

"Tell me, Ms. Waybright, were you aware of Ms. Noceda's past at that point?"

"No, but I did start questioning her and Amity's skills. Even though we all started at the same time, those two fought like they'd been in life-or-death situations before. Their teamwork was...incredible. It was just as good as ours. Afterwards, we were all recalled, along with others, to compete in the Desire Grand Prix again. When I saw Luz had returned, I was furious."

"And why was that?" Legal asked, probing further. "Were you angry that she won, and you didn't?"

Sasha shook her head, her voice growing colder.

"No...I was angry because I blamed her for Anne's death."

Legal Eagle stroked his beak thoughtfully.

"That's curious, Ms. Waybright. You just told the court that Ms. Boonchuy sacrificed herself to save you — a noble act. So, why did you initially blame my client for her death when it was clearly a monster that took her life?"

Sasha inhaled deeply, her expression darkening.

"I didn't know it at the time, but Luz had been given a power-up — an item that would've given her more than enough power to destroy that huge monster. But she didn't use it until after Anne's death. When she finally did, she obliterated the monster like it was nothing. Honestly, it wasn't even a challenge for her." Sasha clenched her fists, her voice tinged with bitterness. "Seeing how easily she wiped out that thing…I was pissed. She had this incredible power, and she didn't try to use it to save Anne. So, I blamed her for what happened."

"I see. That explains your initial anger," Legal acknowledged. "But seeing as Ms. Noceda's wish is to bring back your friend, I assume that's what you and Ms. Wu wished for as well?"

Sasha nodded, her expression softening slightly.

"It is. Marcy and I share the same wish. But back then, I was too angry, too stubborn to see that Luz actually wanted to help us. And that's how Boscha manipulated me so easily. She played on my hatred for Luz and told me about Oscura. I was even there when Odalia died. And yes, Luz didn't save her — but there were reasons for that."

Legal raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

"What were those reasons?"

Sasha crossed her arms defensively.

"First off, you can't attack other players directly. The fights are between the Riders and the monsters. If you engage another Rider, you risk a penalty or even elimination. Odalia didn't care about that — she went after Luz without holding back. Luz couldn't retaliate because even in self-defence, she would've been penalized. While Odalia was focused on her, a monster snuck up from behind. Luz even warned her, but Odalia ignored her. By the time it attacked, there was nothing Luz could do."

Legal began pacing slowly.

"So, after seeing all of this and hearing Ms. Barbtalone's side of the story, you chose to fight against Ms. Noceda?"

"I did," Sasha shamefully admitted. "I formed an alliance with Boscha, and I let her gaslight me the whole time. Marcy couldn't stand by me with how I was acting, and I don't blame her. I was consumed by my anger, blinded by the need for vengeance. I ignored all the warning signs about Boscha. That incident where she molested Amity — it really happened, during one of the missions. I blame myself for not keeping a better eye on her, for not stopping it. As the competition went on, though, I started to question things.."

Legal paused, curious.

"What do you mean?"

Sasha nodded slowly.

"Amity died once, during the competition."

A ripple of shock went through the courtroom. Amity winced, remembering the moment vividly, while her family — the Blights — looked at her in disbelief, trying to understand what this meant for Amity who was sitting beside them.

"She wasn't a player at the time. It was at a campsite, and she was working as a counsellor. Our mission was to stop the monsters from killing off the campers. We thought we got them all…but one slipped through. That's the one that killed Amity. I watched as Luz held her lifeless body in her arms. I knew that pain because I felt it too when I lost Anne, and I didn't take any satisfaction in seeing her suffer like that." Sasha's voice faltered, but she pushed through. "Gus, Willow, and I were ready to avenge Amity and destroy that monster. But Luz stopped us. I could see it in her eyes — this was personal. She destroyed the monster herself, with an intensity I hadn't seen before. Once she killed it, the game ended and everything reset. The civilians, including Amity, were brought back to life, just like Boscha said. The DGP… They can control life and death."

In the audience, Edric, Emira, and Alador exchanged glances, silently confirming with Amity what Sasha was saying had indeed happened.

"Over time," Sasha continued, "I started seeing more contradictions. If Luz was supposed to be this evil tyrant, I wasn't seeing it. She didn't act like a dictator. She fiercely protected the people she cared about — just like I would've done, just like I tried to do. Eventually, Blight snapped me out of it and told me the truth — about what really happened to Luz, how she became Oscura, and how alternate versions of her and Anne separated Oscura from her. By then, I was already questioning my alliance with Boscha. That's when I decided to confront her and get the real story." Sasha scratched the back of her head, blushing slightly as she noticed Marcy's discomfort. But she had to push through. "I…I tried to seduce Boscha. To get her to slip up, tell me the truth, or catch her in a lie. Honestly, it wasn't that hard. She's so full of herself. As much as I hate to admit it, we have similar tendencies, and I used that to my advantage. I caught her in a lie, pressed her on it, and eventually she confessed. After that, I broke off our alliance and planned to join Luz, Amity, and Marcy. At least then, we'd have four chances to get Anne back. But…things didn't go as planned."

"How so?" Legal urged, leaning in slightly.

"Boscha used her magic to pin me down, and then she forced me to drink some kind of potion. I became her puppet, completely under her control," Sasha went on, her voice hardening.

"A mind-control potion — illegally brewed and outlawed," Legal noted sharply, turning to Bradward. "Mr. Buzzard, I trust you'll be addressing this with Ms. Barbtalone?"

Bradward nodded, visibly displeased by the revelation. Even he couldn't ignore something so egregious.

Sasha added, "Boscha used me to try and kill Luz. But she got overconfident. I eventually managed to regain control and gave her the beating of a lifetime for what she did to me — making me hurt my friend… My girlfriend now." Sasha glanced briefly at Marcy, then concluded, "After that, Luz and I, we buried the hatchet. I accepted my responsibility for what happened to Anne. But Luz…she still blames herself. Even so, we've moved past that. We're now working toward a common goal. She's not trying to rule either world — she's helping me bring my best friend back."

"Thank you, Ms. Waybright," Legal gratefully said with a respectful nod. "No further questions."

"Redirect, Your Honours," Bradward requested.

"Proceed," Lilith permitted.

Bradward stood and approached Sasha, whose expression hardened at his presence.

"Ms. Waybright, I'd like to follow up on something from your testimony, regarding the previous season of the competition — the one where, tragically, your friend lost her life," Bradward said.

"What about it?" Sasha asked, her tone guarded.

"You mentioned that Oscura was given an item, one that granted her enough power to defeat the monster single-handedly. Could you elaborate on the devices you use to augment your powers?"

Sasha narrowed her eyes, unsure of where this was headed. Still, she decided to answer.

"As you've seen, as demonstrated by Amity yesterday, we use devices called Desire Drivers to transform. We also have add-ons called Raise Buckles, which can arm us with special weapons, additional armour, or powers once attached to the Driver."

"Very good," Bradward nodded, his tone clinical. "At this time, I'd like to introduce Exhibit B — confiscated from Oscura during her arrest."

A golden orb of transparent light materialized, and inside it floated the Oscura Buckle. Bradward moved the bubble toward the centre, positioning it between himself and Sasha.

"Ms. Waybright, is this the device in question?" he asked again.

"It is."

"You stated that Oscura received this not long before the final round. Before then, she didn't possess it, correct?"

"Correct."

"And what do you call this item?"

Sasha hesitated, glancing toward Luz's table. Legal gave her a reassuring nod.

"It's…It's called the Oscura Buckle."

Bradward gave a brief nod, his eyes narrowing.

"And do you or anyone else in this competition have access to this device?"

Sasha clenched her fists.

"No, only Luz can use it. It was made exclusively for her."

"And this weapon — because that's what it is, essentially — contains the powers she once wielded as the Dark Empress?"

Sasha swallowed hard.

"Yes." A round of gasps rippled through the courtroom. Sasha quickly added, "B-But it's not like before! Luz told me it's a weaker, watered-down version of her old powers!"

"Nonetheless," Bradward continued, unfazed. "Oscura has had access to her supposedly 'lost' powers through this device, even without her Philosopher's Stone."

"Wait! It's not like she asked for it!" Sasha snapped. "The assholes running the DGP probably gave it to her to make things more exciting! You've seen how much she struggles with being Oscura — she refused to use it! Her name didn't even change until after—"

She cut herself off, realising she'd said too much.

Bradward instantly seized the moment.

"Excuse me, Ms. Waybright? You said her name changed? Please, be clear."

Sasha hesitated, then reluctantly clarified, "Before she used the Buckle, her Rider name was 'Kamen Rider Lechuz.'"

"And after she used it?"

Sasha sighed.

"It became 'Kamen Rider Oscura.'"

"I see," Bradward understood, his voice smug. "So, in a way, the Dark Empress made her return."

"No, that's not—" Sasha started.

"No further questions," Bradward cut her off.

"Wait, dammit!"

"That's enough, Ms. Waybright," Darius interjected. "You're dismissed."

Sasha clenched her fists, wanting to argue but knowing it was pointless. She rose from the witness stand and returned to her seat, frustrated and angry with herself for letting that slip.

"Dammit…" she muttered under her breath. "I'm sorry, Luz."

"It's okay," Luz reassured, her voice gentle. "It was bound to come up."

"Indeed," Legal agreed. "We're not done yet, Ms. Waybright. Have faith."

The gavel came down sharply, drawing attention to the Council members.

"Court will now go into a short ten-minute recess," Raine announced. "I believe we all need it."