The Verdict
Justice Berger cleared his throat, the silence in the room almost deafening. He glanced briefly at the Empress, who stood serene yet watchful near the back of the chamber.
Turning back to Erik Dowe, Berger’s voice rang out, calm and authoritative.
"Duke Erik Dowe, this court has reviewed the evidence presented against you, including testimony from survivors, intercepted communications, and documented atrocities committed by the Sons of Reclamation under your leadership."
Berger paused, letting the weight of his words settle. Erik met his gaze, his expression a mask of defiance, though his clenched fists betrayed the tension in his body.
"The court finds you guilty of crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the use of weapons of mass destruction. These actions have caused untold suffering to the people of the Keprog system."
The gallery held its collective breath as Berger leaned forward slightly. "The sentence will be announced now."
He turned toward the Empress, awaiting her silent approval to proceed. Spotty gave a single nod, her crystalline eyes unblinking.