"Kael Ashenvale. You stand before the High King of Velkaris to answer the following charges. Charge the first. Unlawful incursion into the warded forests of Drakencrest sovereign territory."
"Get better wards."
The Herald's jaw tightened. He did not look up. "Charge the second. Employment of a practitioner of proscribed dark magic within Drakencrest borders."
"In fairness, he employs himself. I provide the ambiance and the travel budget."
"Charge the third. Assault upon two persons within Drakencrest territory resulting in grievous bodily harm."
"Grievous is generous. Both of them walked home. Ish. Ask my men who harmed whom. One is concussed with a broken nose. None of them will be able to father children."
Maddox's hand, resting on the arm of the throne, curled once around the obsidian and released. He said nothing.
"Charge the fourth. Abduction and unlawful restraint of a person under Drakencrest protection."
