The throne room of Westia Castle had been transformed into a grand court of justice.
The chamber was massive, easily capable of holding a thousand people with room to spare. Every available space was filled with nobility from across the kingdom, their finest garments creating a sea of color that contrasted sharply with the white stone walls.
Raze sat with his companions in positions of honor near the front, elevated seating that provided a clear view of the proceedings while marking them as individuals of significance. From this vantage he could survey the assembled crowd, noting faces he recognized from the broadcast and many he didn't.
His eyes found Lord Magnus Cain of Thornwick among the gathered nobility, the man's expression carrying satisfaction mixed with vindication. The lord had lost much when Viktor Ashborne's operations in his territory were exposed, but tonight's trial would prove his region had been victim rather than accomplice.
