Page 67 of Bonded To The Arena Master

Korgath recites it from memory.

"Where a demon assigned a human breeder forms an exclusive bond governed by affection rather than lineage duty, and where conduct demonstrates devotion beyond contractual protection, such bond constitutes treason against the preservation and purity of demon blood."

Murmurs move through the galleries.

Many hearing the words have never known the edict existed. Their surprise will not make them reject it. Old law carries the weight of buried weapons. Demon pride admires anything that remains sharp after decades in darkness.

Korgath continues.

"The penalty strips the offender of titles, lands, station, and command. It dissolves the breeding assignment and returns the human to Council disposition. The traitor is then exiled from Galmoleth."

His functioning eye settles on me.

"Lord Obsidius knew the danger of attachment. He chose it regardless."

"You have recited the law," Zira says. "Demonstrate the violation."

Korgath's mouth curves around a hint of triumph.

"I call Telen of House Obsidius."

The name reveals the shape of his evidence.

Movement begins near the side entrance. A Council guard opens the narrow door used by servants and messengers. Telen steps through.

He appears smaller than I remember from my study. His worn grey tunic hides most of his slight frame. Fair, freckled skin has lost its color beneath the chamber light. His short brown hair lies flat against his forehead, and his blue eyes remain lowered as he approaches the center.

Telen has served House Obsidius since childhood. His greatest skill is moving through its corridors without attracting notice. I valued that skill when he carried messages and assumed his quiet presence meant safety.

Observation requires no authority.

Only access.

He stops within a smaller circle beside mine. His hands shake at his sides.

Korgath faces him. "State your place."

"Telen, footman of House Obsidius."

His voice barely reaches the first gallery.

Zira taps her staff once. Arcane light flares around the circle and carries his next words through the chamber.

"How long have you served Lord Obsidius?" Korgath asks.

"Since I was eight."

"Your duties?"

"Messages. Errands. Preparing rooms. Carrying household records between the study and archive."

"Did those duties place you near Beatrix Ferryman after the sabotage?"

Telen's fingers curl into his palms. "Yes."

"Tell the Council what you witnessed."

He lifts his eyes toward me, then lowers them again.