Chapter22: Trial

LORRY SPRINGSTONE'S/KELLY THOMPSON'S POV  The night goes on almost hitch free, but I can't shake the feeling of unease that has settled over me. Jason and Eden are already asleep, their breathing soft and rhythmic in the dimly lit room. I sit cross-legged on the moss, my back against the curved wall of our arboreal chamber, unable to find rest. My mind races with possibilities and potential dangers. The council's suspicion was palpable, and I know that one wrong move can spell disaster for us all. I close my eyes, trying to piece together a plan for the morning's interrogation. A soft rustling outside our door makes me freeze. I hold my breath, straining to hear. There it is again - the unmistakable sound of hushed voices. Our guards, I realize, are talking amongst themselves. Silently, I creep closer to the door, pressing my ear against the rough bark. Their voices are muffled, but I can just make out snippets of their conversation. "...don't trust them," one guard whispers, his tone