Calla’s POV
The Chief Elder signaled for me to begin, and instantly, every person in that large room focused their attention on me. It felt overwhelming, like a heavy weight pressing down on me, much like being deep underwater.
I took a deep breath to calm myself, just like I did before important presentations at work, even though those situations didn’t carry the risk of my life if I messed up my words.
“Before I talk about the charges against me,” I stated clearly, letting my voice echo in the room, “I want to shed some light on who is making these claims and their motivations.”
Marcus looked annoyed at my words. “The Tribunal doesn’t need explanations—”
“The Tribunal will decide what it needs,” interrupted the Chief Elder smoothly. “Please, continue, Miss Reyes.”
I carefully pu
