Cassian's POV

The throne room had been transformed into a trial chamber.

Gone were the banners and festivities from the ball. In their place stood witnesses, guards, and the cold, unyielding weight of justice. The high vaulted ceiling seemed to press down on us all, as if the castle itself was watching, waiting for judgment to be delivered.

I sat on my throne, Kin at my right, the council members flanking us on either side. The other royals—Valcaryn and Duskwatch alike—filled the gallery, ...