Judith stood alone at the center of the vast chamber.
The room was enormous, its ceiling lost in darkness, supported by ancient pillars etched with symbols of forgotten authority. Dim blue light leaked from slits in the walls, barely illuminating the figures positioned around her. They stood inside recessed alcoves, half-hidden behind thick shadow curtains. Faces concealed. Voices sharp.
Judith's boots echoed softly against the stone floor. She did not move. Her posture was straight, her expression calm.
A woman's voice cut through the silence.
"So this is Judith Harrington."
Another voice followed, rough and mocking.
"She really thinks she can stand there after what she's done."
A third voice sneered.
"Who gave you the authority to decide who lives and who dies?"
Judith listened.
She folded her hands behind her back, eyes slowly moving from one shadowed alcove to another.
A man spoke next, his tone dripping with disdain.
