PROLOGUE
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In the distance, the smell of the citricite refinery filled Olmed's nose. Even here, inside the hearing, it was still in the air. A distinct smell that filled the Kantenan world. The ore, a valuable commodity in the galaxy, was only able to be mined in certain areas, and the Kantenans maintained control of it.
Their entire culture revolved around the citricite.
Both as a resource and a sign of power.
The very chamber had trimmings of the orange-white stone sparkling throughout the room.
A soft shift in the noise filled the chamber as he walked out to the platform to hear the verdict of the council.
Kantenans were there, watching. Deciding if he should be punished. Interesting that so many of his people were there to see what the decision would be. If his life mattered in the great Kantenan way.
He stood still and didn't move, not that he wanted to. He needed to show some respect for the ruling.
It might show him some leniency.
But what was the point, truly? His people had left him behind, and he did not really care what they wanted to do now.
Those observing the sentencing spoke in hushed voices. Their decisions were made. Now it was time for the council to make theirs.
The council took their seats in the semi-circle. His gaze ran over the ones deciding his fate. Fellow Kantenans who had the privilege of having a higher place in this world and thereby determining the place of others.
And punish criminals.
"You understand the consequences of your actions," the main judge asked him.
Olmed didn't know the speaker's family name. He didn't care. It didn't matter. He just wanted to get this over with and move forward.
The councilman’s horns jutted out from his head almost like flames. It seemed fitting.
Olmed just stared at him. He didn’t bother answering. There was no point. It would not change the coming moments.
"Answer, Olmed."
"Why?" he asked.
"You were spoken to. Reply."
"Why?" Olmed asked.
"Is there a purpose to this obstinate behavior?" another on the council asked.
Olmed glanced at her.
She raised her chin, like she dared him to speak to her.
Not worth my time, Olmed mused. He turned back at the leader of the council. "Your decisions are made. I cannot sway you. Choose the punishment and let me accept it."
"This is the fourth time you've been before us. You claim your innocence--"
"And you do not listen," Olmed said.
The observers grew silent, the hall so quiet one could hear the breathing of the council members.
"Lies do not become the Kantenans. We exist to a higher standard. One that allows for…"
