A collective gasp went up from the gang. Clara stood frozen, her face light with shock and confusion. "What? That's not possible! I might by no means—"
Gabby raised a hand to silence her. "Guards, conduct a thorough search of Clara's room immediately."
The guards nodded and marched off, with Clara following in the back of, protesting her innocence. I felt a pang of sympathy for Clara, understanding how it felt to be wrongly accused and misunderstood. I wished I could do something to help, but after my current failures, I didn't need to make things worse.
Gabby's gaze lingered on me for a moment, a mix of venture and caution in his eyes. He seemed to be daring me to interfere once more. I appeared away, feeling helpless and conflicted.
The minutes dragged on painfully. Murmurs and whispers filled the corridor as everyone waited for the guards to return. Finally, they reappeared, wearing a small, ornate field. The crowd fell silent, all eyes at the box.
