The silence that followed Pip's final, absurd recommendation of "a pile of well-stuffed pillows" was absolute.
The Adjudicator of Law, Valerius, looked personally betrayed by reality itself.
The Adjudicator of Heart, Lyra, had a smile that lingered like a ghost at the corners of her lips.
And the Adjudicator of Procedure, Scribonia, was scribbling furiously, her brow furrowed in deep, professional concentration.
At last, Scribonia finished her note with a sharp, final stroke. "Thank you, rogue, for your unsolicited but… thorough report," she said, her tone precise as she lifted her gaze to the group. "Your safety concerns have been noted for future review. The elf. You are next. Please step forward."
Zazu's response was a stark contrast to the others. He did not squeak like Pip, nor did he step forward with the grim resolve of Gilda. He merely inclined his head in a slow, polite acknowledgment. His steps were unhurried, as if each one had all the time in the world.
