The day everyone had been waiting for finally arrived.
By early morning, the conference hall in central London was already overflowing with journalists, television crews, and photographers. Cameras flashed relentlessly as news anchors rehearsed their opening reports while reporters exchanged whispers, eager for the biggest story of the year.
For days, the headlines had dominated every media outlet.
Hidden Son of Thoreau.
Illegitimate Heir Challenges the Empire.
The world wanted answers.
Inside the conference hall, a long table stood beneath the bright stage lights, each seat equipped with a microphone. The people at the center of the scandal would soon occupy every chair.
The doors opened.
Henri Thoreau entered first.
His expression was as unreadable as ever, his posture proud des
