"The witness is urged to inform the judges of his testimony," the Archon intoned, his voice firm as a gavel striking stone. "And to cease engaging in conversation with the accused."
The rebuke struck the young soldier like a blow. He winced, seeming only now to remember where he was and before whom he stood. With a stiff bow, he lowered his head.
"My apologies, I will proceed."
But before he turned fully, he cast one last glance at Elyos — a glance not of hatred, but of deep, aching disappointment. It was a look that struck harder than any curse, and even Elyos, for a fleeting instant, seemed unsettled.
The young man straightened, grasping his cane tightly, and began his testimony in a clear, if heavy, voice:
