The elderly judicial official adjusted the document in his hands and looked out across the Great Hall.
The silence was absolute.
Thousands of eyes were fixed upon him.
He glanced briefly toward the Empress.
She gave a single nod.
The elder straightened his posture.
Then he began.
His voice was clear and powerful, carrying effortlessly throughout the enormous chamber.
"By the authority vested in the Imperial Court of Lechia and under the laws governing treason, conspiracy, and crimes against the state, Prince Khan of Lechia stands accused of the following offenses."
A wave of tension swept through the hall.
The elder looked toward the trial box.
Khan stood motionless.
His face pale.
His eyes fixed on the floor.
The elder continued.
"First charge."
His voice echoed.
"Conspiracy with enemies of the Empire."
The crowd erupted immediately.
"TRAITOR!"
"SHAME!"
"DEATH TO HIM!"
Boos thundered throughout the hall.
