Benja and Xochitl fell into a respectful silence, along with all the others who'd been permitted into the Chancel hall to witness the proceedings.

With the formal introductions and pleasantries over, Pampaa sat down in the lone chair facing the arcing Tall Table of Judges.

The Prelate got right to it. "Your daughter is in a right mess, Ignacio."

Pampaa nodded. "I'm aware she failed her Criterion, Your Holiness, but I'm not sure what--"

The ...