Three weeks later.
Seoul Central District Court.
The courthouse looked like a war zone. Media vans lined the streets. Protesters held signs on both sides—some supporting Haejin, others demanding justice for Jiwon's victims. Security barriers created a path through the chaos.
Soorin stepped out of the company van. The noise hit her immediately. Cameras flashing. People shouting. Security guards forming a wall.
"Stay close," Manager Park said.
The LUMEN members moved as a group. Haejin walked ahead. Face blank. Eyes forward. He hadn't said much since they'd left the safe house that morning.
Inside, the courthouse was cooler. Quieter. But the tension was suffocating.
The courtroom was packed. Gallery seats filled with familiar faces. The seven rescued hostages sat together on one side. AUREYA staff on the other. Press in their designated section. And scattered throughout—Gleams who'd managed to get seats, curious public, legal observers.
