Daphne's POV
Each step I took toward the front of the chamber was calculated. Deliberate hesitation marked my movement, as if terror consumed me at sharing this space with Cyrus.
"Certainly," I responded in barely more than a whisper.
Elder Helga extended her hand toward an unoccupied seat. "Please, take your time. We understand how traumatic this must be for you."
Settling into the chair, I positioned my hands in my lap precisely as my mother had taught me. My gaze remained fixed downward, the picture of vulnerability.
Elder Eustace's voice filled the silence. "Several witnesses have come forward with their accounts. They discovered you in Sentinel Cyrus's private chambers. Your clothing was disheveled. There were clear signs of..." His words hung in the air. "Physical violation. Can you confirm this testimony?"
"Yes," I breathed.
"You were present against your wishes?"
My eyes lifted slowly, allowing moisture to pool at the corners. "I cannot bear to speak of it."
