Zorobo stands directly across from the podiums behind which Adahlia and Sotet are situated. He gestures dramatically—throwing both wings wide and stretching to his full height.
“Great Monoch—Protector of all that is just, sacred, and true in Shretonia….You have heard my testimony…The testimony of Sotet, son of Glodit and Netorrav; and of the human girl—whose very presence in Shretonia is why we are even here. All of Shretonia awaits your final word— your justice.”
Turning in Sotet’s direction, Zorobo narrows his eyes at the unfortunate prisoner. The glowing eyes of the Monoch also turn to stare at Sotet—fixing him in their haunting gaze. The dual voices once again fill the entire hall.
“Sotet, son of Glodit….Son of Netorrav…You have shown both kindness—and recklessness—through your actions. While saving the human child from a very real danger…You have exposed our world to an even greater danger. We do not fault you for helping the child—any son or daughter of Shretonia would have done the same. However, our laws are quite clear. Only beings from worlds within the alliance may be given admittance into our own. With clear limitations and protocols in place to protect our culture—our technology—and our world—from infiltrators and saboteurs. You have failed in your natural duty as a born protector of Shretonia. We all share in this duty. And as such, carry a great responsibly. Your actions are at once commendable—and indefensible. The judgment of the Monoch is as follows—“
-
-
Three squad cars sit at the edge of the driveway. The lights of both police units are still on but the siren is silent. The officers are either on the porch speaking with Mrs. Highstreet; or on the sidewalk questioning neighbors. Mrs. Highstreet is speaking earnestly with the senior most police officer; gesturing with a sweep of her arm towards the direction of the park.
The bullies from Adahlia’s previous school encounter are seated against a fence near the front of the first squad car. Modesty has her legs propped on top of a rock and her hands underneath her head—as if she is asleep. Nancy is sitting cross legged doing yoga moves. The other lackeys stare toward the Highstreet residence.
This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author's consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.
After getting as much information as they can from Mrs. Highstreet, and the surrounding neighbors, the cops descend the porch and head for their cars. The bullies rise from their spots beside the fence. Nancy hollers up at Mrs. Highstreet.
“Sorry about your daughter, Mrs. Highstreet!”
Mrs. Highstreet looks down the driveway at the group of girls. Her eyes immediately narrow.
“Yeah. Sorry about your daughter, Mrs. Highstreet,” Modesty echoes.
“Adahlia is such a sweet girl,” another lackey adds.
“Hope you find her soon,” says a fourth girl.
The girls turn swiftly on their heels and walk away down the road. The squad cars turn on their sirens and whisk away in the direction of the park—hoping to find some clue of Adahlia’s whereabouts.
-
-
"Your actions are at once commendable—and indefensible. The judgment of the Monoch is as follows—“
Zorobo sneers cruelly as Sotet’s judgment is about to be pronounced. A great silence has fallen over the gathering hall. Sotet is unable to hide the shiver which cascades down his body.
“Sotet, son of Glodit….Son of Netorrav. Your rank as Sixth Level Crafter Artisan is revoked. And for six world cycles hence—you will not be permitted to choose another.”
Sotet lowers his head yet again—having anticipated such a judgment, but disheartened to receive it just the same.
“And during those six world cycles of penitence…You shall live outside of the city…”
Sotet’s eyes widen and he straightens up. A hushed whisper exits his throat. “What?!?”
Even Zorobo’s mouth drops open and his eyes narrow. This was far worse—or greater-- a punishment than he could have ever imagined. No shrike has been exiled in almost seventy world cycles. Surely it was his testimony which swayed the Monoch to pronounce such a harsh judgment. And it is a good one.
“You will be led outside of the gate under guard. Once outside of the city, Master Guard, Horotic, will transport you to the Cave of Wildere. From there, you will enter the Portal of Constants to serve your time on the Wandering Sands. Do you understand the judgment which has been passed down by the Monoch this day?” booms the dual voices of the Monoch.
Sotet simply looks down at Adahlia—tears in his eyes. “I am so sorry, little one.”
It is at this point, when Sotet realizes why the Monoch allowed Adahlia to attend the trial. There was never any intention for her to return to her world. It was all a farce. She has been judged as well. Exile to the Portal of Constants—and subsequently the Wandering Sands, confirms this suspicion. They are making sure that every loose end is tied up. They are hoping that both Sotet and his human companion succumb to the elements—or the beasts which roam the sands. This is a deadly exile.
END PART ONE