The Council chamber was in utter chaos.
Members shouted over each other, their voices rising in a discordant symphony of outrage and disbelief. Spectators surged to their feet, some cheering, some booing, some simply staring in open-mouthed shock. The Scott family's section had descended into a frenzy of hissed arguments and furious gestures.
The head Council member raised his hands, trying to restore order. His face was flushed, his ancient eyes darting between Attia and the pandemonium he had unleashed.
"Order!" he bellowed, his voice cracking with strain. "I call for a recess! We will reconvene once the atmosphere has—"
"I oppose the recess."
Attia's voice cut through the noise like a blade.
The room fell silent.
He turned to face the head Council member, his expression cold and
