In defense of what I’ve done since

“You stand accused of disregard for human life, blood rape, and murder. How do you plead?”

“I plead guilty,” Elijah replies firmly to the matron of the proceedings, noticing the subtle shift in the stances of those assembled around him. A human wouldn’t see but his enhanced senses detect the indication of surprise. “I ask that I be allowed to argue not in defense of what I did, but in defense of what I’ve done since. I have changed. I would like to call a witness who can attest to it.”

This is not something those who stand in judgment must discuss. They consider themselves to be fair above all things. “We will allow it. What is this person?”

“He is human.”

Another near imperceptible shift. “Have you broken the conventions of secrecy?”

“No. He knew of our kind before I met him.”

“Very well.