The Secret Healer(120)

“No,” the sheriff interrupted. “The prosecution is right. We’ve heard enough.”

Andreas didn’t know what to say at this point. “I only wanted justice to be served in such a way so that in the end there would be no open questions.”

“You already said that,” the sheriff shot back.

Johannes stood up. “I also think that enough of my witnesses have been heard. For me, the defendant’s guilt is quite clear.”

“The guilt of bringing the sick back to life, yes,” Andreas agreed.

“No, no, no.” The sheriff struck the palm of his hand on the table. “Not that same argument again. You two have been disputing this same issue for hours now.”

Johannes and Andreas looked at each other, amazed by the sheriff’s violent reaction.

“Please excuse me,” Johannes said apologetically. “You’re right. And I agree with the other prosecutor, Lord Trauenstein. The trial has exhausted me quite thoroughly; I would ask now to be allowed to collect my thoughts for a short while.”

“The defense agrees,” Andreas added immediately.

“Well, there seems to be agreement about this. How wonderful,” the sheriff replied cynically. “We’ll gather here again in one hour and will then immediately”—he raised his finger—“continue the trial without ever hearing from another witness for either side. We will move forward to the next charge: the murder of Adelhaid Trauenstein.”

All parties nodded.

“In one hour. For now, I need a cold beer.” With that, the sheriff left without another word.



“Where are Agathe and Kilian?” Andreas asked Madlen as softly as possible.

“I don’t know. Elsbeth and Otilia aren’t there, either. Did something happen? What did Otilia say to you before the trial resumed this afternoon?”

“I’m trying to buy us some more time. They have an idea that could prove your innocence.”

“But now they’re not here.” Madlen’s heartbeat quickened.

“Stay calm,” Andreas said, trying to reassure her as he put his hand on Madlen’s shoulder.

“Follow me, please.” The guard bent over Madlen.

“Of course.” She stood up right away. “But,” she said before she left, “I’m worried. Please. Find them.” She let the guard lead her away.

Andreas asked everywhere, but he could locate neither the women nor Kilian. Finally, it was time to return to the church and resume the trial. But the seats in the front row were still empty. Madlen was led over to the defendant’s table; she immediately took her seat, then looked at Andreas. “What’s happening?”

Andreas shook his head slowly. “I don’t know. I didn’t find them.”

Madlen chewed on her lower lip nervously. “I couldn’t bear it if . . .” She broke off her sentence.

“Don’t think of it,” Andreas warned.

Madlen nodded mutely.

Johannes came in and noted the depressed atmosphere at the defense table. He wanted to ask them about it. After all, he could easily invent an excuse. But he held back. Everything depended on him convincingly taking on the role of the angry, embittered husband who worked tirelessly to obtain a conviction. A brief moment of doubt by any one of the parties involved could invalidate all their efforts. He sat down and waited to make eye contact with Andreas. When he finally looked over at him, he lifted up his eyebrow questioningly. Andreas checked to make sure no one was watching him. Then he pointed his chin in the direction of the empty seats once occupied by Elsbeth, Agathe, and Otilia. Johannes looked at him helplessly. Andreas shook his head in frustration.

Matthias Trauenstein came back in and let himself fall into his chair. The man reeked of alcohol, the smell wafting over to where Johannes was sitting.

“Well, now, have you taken care to prepare your case?” Johannes asked.

“I was sitting with the honorable citizens of Heidelberg in our wonderful tavern. And what can I tell you: they asked me whether I want to be a member of the council. What do you think about that?”

“I congratulate you. Indeed, a high position.”

“It’s the highest position!” He stabbed the air with his index finger.

“Well, you must be quite satisfied then.”

“Indeed I am, my good man. Indeed I am.”

Johannes noted that Matthias slurred his words.

“And as soon as that one over there is dangling from the gallows, I can take my place among Heidelberg’s most revered citizens. And I”—he pointed at himself—“will be at the very head of the council.”

“Congratulations once more. You will have reached the pinnacle of success.”