The air inside the cathedral felt heavy. Hundreds of eyes watched in silence, though quiet whispers still drifted through the hall.
Archbishop Alaric Voss sat upon the elevated seat before the entire chamber.
"Lord Vaeldric Ashbourne."
Several people craned their necks from behind others, unwilling to miss a single moment.
"Where were you when your wife collapsed?"
I watched the color drain from Magnus Ashbourne's face. It was the complete opposite of his rigid posture and tightly clenched fists.
Of course, he wasn't afraid. He simply hadn't expected the opening question to strike his own son so directly.
He understood one thing. His son's answer would determine the direction of this hearing.
Vaeldric stood straight. His face had turned red, his jaw locked tight. I knew he was weig
