As soon as Richard Potu saw the crystal device in Liam's hand, his face paled, and his hands trembled slightly. He couldn't take it from Liam in front of the council, but he also couldn't let it be reviewed by the council. If they did, everyone would know the truth, and Richard wasn't going to let that happen.
Liam stood alone in the council chamber, the air thick with tension. No one else from his guild was allowed in. Richard Potu, however, was not alone. Although he was supposed to be, his influence as the city's strongest hero meant he had many connections, and the other heroes present were nothing but pawns in his game.
An official approached Liam, hand outstretched. "Please hand over the crystal device for review."
Suddenly, a commotion erupted from the crowd. A hero shouted, pointing towards the back of the room. "What's that? Over there!"
