A large, imposing man in a royal suit of black camlet, edged in silver lace, sauntered into the hall of justice, his thick boots clipping ominously over the tile floor. A gold-encrusted sword hung at his side, his hand resting idly on the hilt. He proceeded, scanning the judge's bench with dark, handsome eyes and an austere expression. Under a plumed tricorne, thick graying hair was pulled back, cavalier style. Two men in similar dress followed close behind him.

The blood ...