"This is highly irregular—"
"This is proper procedure." Catherine's voice doesn't waver. "Unless you'd like to explain to the council why you're so eager to silence additional testimony?"
The gallery buzzes with renewed interest. James looks like he wants to murder Catherine with his bare hands, but he can't refuse without making himself look even worse than he already does.
"Fine," he spits. "Call your witness. But I warn you, Elder Catherine—if this is some kind of stalling tactic—"
"It's not."
The chamber doors open.
A woman enters—middle-aged, professional, carrying herself with the authority of someone who has seen terrible things.
She's wearing a simple navy dress, her dark hair pulled back, her expression calm and determined.
I recognize her instantly.
The room tilts. My vi
