From the gathered assembly, fourteen figures slowly moved to the center of the island. They came from every corner of the godling hierarchy apeling, werewolves, merfolk, harpies, and a few others whose presence alone shifted the air. Though they represented different peoples, their steps were in harmony.
When they stopped, the offenders stood shoulder to shoulder, forming a line that stretched across the clearing. One of the apeling, the tallest among them, raised his voice so all could hear.
"We have come forward," he began, "not to boast, nor to seek pity. But to make things easier for our leader and to show the proper respect to Xerosis. Her dignity must remain intact, above all else."
A harpy stepped forward next, wings folding neatly behind her. "We trust our leader fully. They have prepared defenders for us, to show we are not abandoned. We have no fear in our hearts, the weight of our actions rests with us, and we bear it willingly."
