The Hall of Radiant Judgment had stood since before mortals learned to count years. Its walls were carved from solidified light, its ceiling an impossible sky of perpetual dawn. Nine thrones circled the chamber's center—eight for the High Seraphim, one elevated above the rest for the Goddess herself.

All nine were occupied.

Kelean stood at attention below the thrones, wings folded in perfect deference, armor gleaming. He'd been summoned to give testimony, and he would do so without ...