Richard smirked.
And walked forward.
"I… would like to speak," he said, in a voice so civil it made Liam's brow twitch.
The judges glanced at one another. Then nodded.
Richard turned to the audience. "I am deeply ashamed," he said, voice firm but oddly sorrowful. "I never knew what my son had done. If I had known... I would have killed him with my own hands."
The crowd stirred. His words didn't sound fake — he was good, even when lying.
"I owe this man here," he pointed at Liam, "for opening our eyes. I thank him, and I thank the council for pursuing the truth. And to the families of those we lost, I will personally compensate every single one. I will pour my wealth into rebuilding the guild system. I won't run from my name — I will restore it."
The audience was confused. Some clapped. Some hissed.
Liam? He just stared.
Then tilted his head.
"I appreciate your apology, Richard," Liam said casually, "but I forgot to mention something."
