Zaeryn stopped before the raised council bench. The Royal Guards remained stationed at the chamber doors, leaving him alone beneath the scrutiny of the Imperial Council.
The atmosphere shifted. Several councilwomen straightened in their seats, measuring his height, his broad frame, and his posture. The Sector Seven citadel had sent extensive recordings and dossiers, but reports never conveyed physical presence.
"The preliminary footage failed to capture his size," one councilwoman murmured.
"Or his composure," another added.
Zaeryn kept his eyes forward. Lowering his gaze would look like guilt, but staring anyone down would be taken as defiance. Keeping his posture still and neutral gave them nothing to seize on.
