Moira's POV

The Council chamber swells with voices as witnesses file in. Footsteps echo off marble floors. Bodies press into seats. The air thickens with anticipation and judgment.

My fingers dig into the armrest of my seat in the witness section. I've been waiting since dawn. Pacing my guest quarters. Checking my phone. Counting the minutes until noon.

I straighten. Finally.

Heavy doors swing open at the far end of the chamber. The ...