Strongest Necromancer System Chapter 798: Is This Really A Trial?

Jason shifted his body as he observed Hesabeth rising from her throne. With graceful steps, Hesabeth moved across a mystical formation and materialized on the raised platform adjacent to Jason. Jason offered Hesabeth a smile, and a faint blush touched her cheeks as she returned the gesture.

Given that both Jason and Hesabeth were implicated in a transgression, it was only fitting that Hesabeth would stand alongside Jason on the accused's dock. Together, they turned their gazes upward toward the council, and the proceeding officially commenced.

C'thlyanu's voice, calm and measured, broke the silence. "We have assessed the extent of the devastation and the casualty figures resulting from the inter-world conflict between the two of you, classifying it as a third-degree interworld offense. You, Hesabeth in particular, drew the attention of a PRIMORDIAL Rank entity, which subsequently led to the obliteration of over twenty-five percent of three worlds adjacent to the battle's origin and the complete annihilation of one world. We, the council, seek to understand the rationale behind your actions."

Jason's eyes narrowed subtly upon perceiving the inflection and phrasing of C'thlyanu's inquiry. He sensed an underlying peculiarity in C'thlyanu's words, a conviction forming that this trial held concealed depths beyond its apparent scope. Hesabeth promptly stepped forward, her voice steady. "I accept full accountability for the damage inflicted upon those worlds and am prepared to face an appropriate consequence for my deeds. However, it is important to acknowledge that the events transpired due to the worlds' collective will to shield me, rather than my own intention to cause destruction."

A quiet hum escaped Jason upon hearing Hesabeth's declaration, a faint smile gracing his lips before he released a soft sigh. The reason for the peculiar nature of the question became clear. Both C'thlyanu's query and Hesabeth's response appeared prearranged, signaling the inevitable unfolding of subsequent events. C'thlyanu emitted another hum, this time projecting his voice audibly throughout the vast hall. "Upon careful deliberation of the established facts, the council has reached the determination that the destruction wrought by Hesabeth and Jason was not entirely within their volition, and thus, it shall be reclassified as a second-degree interworld offense. Consequently, the penalty shall mandate the restitution of one billion gold coins to each world afflicted by their conflict. Furthermore, as a council member, Queen Hesabeth will assume the supervisory role to ensure the complete reconstruction of all devastated regions. While the offense is significant, we have also taken into consideration Queen Hesabeth's prior commendable actions and her genuine remorse for this transgression to ensure the punishment's equity. Should any present wish to offer supplementary input, this is the moment. Otherwise, we shall proceed to a vote."

This time, an absolute silence enveloped the entire hall; not a whisper could be heard. From the observers to the council members themselves, every soul was rendered speechless, prompting a soft exhalation of amusement from Jason. He glanced toward Hesabeth, noting her impassive gaze fixed upon C'thlyanu, devoid of any semblance of being on trial. Perceiving Jason's attention, Hesabeth turned to him, a sharp smile playing on her lips. Jason merely scoffed, averting his gaze. It was abundantly clear that this entire judicial proceeding was merely a performance staged for the audience's benefit. Jason harbored no doubt that Hesabeth and the council had convened beforehand, predetermining the nature of Hesabeth's punishment. Nevertheless, to avoid the perception of impropriety, they deemed a formal trial necessary, adopting this approach to uphold the council's appearance of impartiality.

'In this manner, they safeguard their reputation as paragons of justice while simultaneously shielding one of their own from public reproach and disgrace. I cannot fault this strategy; it is, in essence, the pragmatic course of action.'

This was likely the swiftest trial ever conducted by the council. Despite the presence of individuals who found the charade unsatisfactory, the council members unanimously agreed that this method best served to appease both the populace and Hesabeth. Moreover, the trial, though a façade, did not absolve Hesabeth of consequence. The obligation to disburse a billion gold coins to each affected world represented a substantial penalty. Coupled with Hesabeth's personal supervision of the rebuilding efforts, this meant an even greater financial burden for both her and Jason. From every perspective, the penalty was deemed fitting.

In the absence of any objections, C'thlyanu formally declared the conclusion of the trial, and the resonant voice from earlier once again echoed through the grand chamber.

The conclusion of Queen Hesabeth and Jason Marc's trial against the Primordial State has been reached. All observed cases under the Primordial Treaty have now concluded. We kindly request that all spectators not holding a TITAN Rank in a Rank II world or higher depart from the Hall of Heroes. Faceless Keepers will be stationed at each exit to offer assistance if needed.

As the trial's audience began to disperse from the Hall of Heroes, Jason observed their departure. Initially, nearly five hundred individuals from various worlds had been present. However, once the attendees from the lower worlds exited, fewer than ten people remained within the hall. Sensing Gina's hand tighten in his, Jason turned to her as her voice echoed in his mind.

’Babe, do we need to leave too?’

Gina had remained silent throughout the proceedings, understanding her lesser involvement compared to Jason and Hesabeth. Yet, she sensed the outcome of the main trial aligned perfectly with Jason's predictions. An eagerness to return to Earth and reunite with everyone surged within her. Jason, however, simply shook his head before responding.

’No, we're staying. This is far too critical for us to miss. Now that the trial is concluded, the sole remaining discussion pertains to Rubik’s vacant seat. The council must select the next overlord.’

Gina's eyes widened slightly as she grasped the significance of Jason's words. Her gaze shifted to the sixth council seat, conspicuously empty. A question formed: how would the new Overlord be chosen? Gina recognized Jason as a leading contender, likely the most powerful individual in this domain. However, she recalled overhearing Jason's conversations with Hesabeth and Farlow regarding his potential ascension to Overlord, and she understood that the role demanded more than mere strength.

Hesabeth gently touched Jason’s arm, prompting him to turn and meet her smiling gaze.

"I shall return to my seat now. Let us discuss the details of our fine later. And I apologize for not consulting you regarding the council’s decision. I hope the penalty isn't too severe."

A flicker of guilt crossed Hesabeth's face, regretting her unilateral decision on their payment without Jason's input. She acknowledged her significant role in the destruction wrought upon those worlds during her confrontation with Jason, and she sincerely hoped he wasn't displeased with her choice.