“I’m ready,” Rachel said.

“Bring in the crowd.”

General Thomas signaled to the ushers at the back of the hall.

The heavy wooden doors unlatched with a loud click.

I walked up the side aisle and slipped behind the heavy velvet curtain near the rear entrance.

The front rows filled up quickly with dignitaries and high-ranking families.

Richard, Linda, and Allison walked down the center aisle.

An usher stopped them halfway.