I stood in the main hall of the Celestial Apothecary Guild, surrounded by staring faces. The tension in the air was thick enough to cut with a knife. Whispers flowed around me like water, carrying fragments of speculation and judgment.
"He actually dared to attack Travis Blackthorne..."
"Third Elder will make an example of him..."
"Such a waste of talent..."
I kept my expression neutral despite the growing unease in my gut. The last twenty-four hours had been a rollercoaster—from selecting herbs in the Guild's treasury to spending a night in a suppression chamber. Now I awaited judgment before the entire Guild.
Sofia stood nearby, offering silent support with her presence. Fifth Elder positioned himself strategically across the hall, his face a mask of determined calm. Third Elder, meanwhile, wore his victory like a crown, already savoring my downfall.
"The Pavilion Master approaches!" someone announced, and the hall fell instantly silent.
