Aurora stared at Valeska for a moment, her expression still blank but holding something Valeska couldn't quite decipher.
"I have nothing more to say. Go ahead and pass your judgment."
Valeska's heart sank.
"In that case, Valeska Belmore, you're under arrest for being in cohorts with the vampires. Your final punishment will be determined after a formal meeting. Guards, take her away."
Two wolf guards appeared from behind the council seats and grabbed Valeska by the arms, their grip tight and unrelenting, digging into her skin.
"I really didn't do it!" she screamed, struggling. "Mother, I really didn't do it!"
Aurora turned her face away, as though even looking at Valeska pained her. As if she were nothing but an unwanted stain on the floor.
That hurt more than the guards' iron grip.
Valeska turned to Nevian, silently begging with her eyes.
'Say something, please.' She pleaded.
But he said nothing. He didn't even look at her.
