Courtroom

The gavel struck a third time, echoing through the grand chamber like a war drum. The head judge leaned forward, his mask catching the firelight. "Let the record reflect that the trial of the accused, Vale, The Butcher of the South Outpost, shall now commence."

A man in crimson robes stood from the prosecutor's bench. He was rotund, balding, and spoke with the pride of someone who believed his voice alone could convict a man.

"The Government brings forth charges of the gravest nature," he began, unrolling a scroll that unfurled to the floor. "Let it be known that Vale, formerly of the Royal Army, stands accused of the murder of twenty-three individuals at the Southern Outpost—among them a high-ranking General, who was a decorated war hero and beloved public servant."

A murmur spread through the crowd like a breeze through dry leaves. Vale remained still in the iron pen, shoulders slack but spine unyielding.