Balder, still holding the parchment, stepped forward and began to read the penalties for a crime of such magnitude in a calm but firm voice.
"Kaizen, son of Midgard, according to the laws of the gods and the balance of the realms, the penalty for murdering a primordial god is death."
The voices grew louder, and all eyes turned to Kaizen, who stood firm, though there was a glimmer of concern in his eyes. He knew that his defense would not be easy and that his life was literally hanging by a thread.
Suddenly, a distinct sound of footsteps echoed through the hall, interrupting what seemed to be an imminent verdict. Loki, the god of trickery and deceit, rose from his throne with an enigmatic smile on his lips. His green and gold robes shimmered in the torchlight, and his eyes sparkled with a mixture of malice and curiosity.
