Xenia was escorted into the local police station, a dark, bustling hall filled with petty thieves and brawlers awaiting judgment.
"Sit there," the constable said, gesturing toward a worn wooden bench along the wall.
"Just let me leave," Xenia argued, remaining on her feet. "I committed no crime. I merely defended myself when that man laid a hand on my coat!"
"Silence, woman. Do not instruct us on how to carry out the law," the second constable barked.
Before the argument could escalate, their senior officer stepped out from his office. Both constables immediately snapped to attention and offered a salute.
"Why have you brought a woman into the station?" the officer demanded, looking between Xenia and the officers.
"Sir, she thrashed three men in the street and stirred up a public disturbance," the constable reported.
