The remaining time leading up to the trial was marked with the same mix of fear and tension preceding the announcement of the trial. The lieutenants, now one less in number, had an even harder time keeping packs placated. Despite their best efforts, they could not be everywhere at once and scuffles did break out. Thankfully, alphas of the opposing packs were able to contain them to merely a few grazes and bruises. The most aggressive behaviour resulted in minor punishment. The fact that kept people from speaking out too much about the situation was the hope that the trial would form a resolution, but with the full moon so near, no felt entirely secure.

Carana and Sabine worked safely, but sacrificed sleep to get their work done. Even if Carana didn't outwardly express it, she was just as tense as Sabine was in the situation. For a while, talking amongst themselves gave some distraction, but even getting to the point of calling each other friends didn't change the greater situation around them. They shortly before the trial, they reported that the mote of substance left in the vial was indeed the same poison used to kill Jerrick. As for the cork, they had not yet determined any particular identity apart from Meesei's by the time the trial was convened.

The morning of the trial did not have any fights or scuffles, any vocal disagreements or threats. Everyone stayed to their own packs with murmurings amongst themselves. Some speculated on what Harriet might do to meet her accusations, others made plans in secret corners if any large scale fights were to break out. Any questions about such plans were flatly denied when asked about, but people seemed more fearful than angry at this point.

After breakfast, the entire clan gathered in the main chamber, not the dining chamber. The illuminated dais normally populated with scores of sparring partners was cleared off save for three tables and enough chairs to furnish the parties directly involved. The edges of the dais were cordoned off by a length of rope along the floor and a number of volunteer pack alphas that were there to instruct the meaning of the rope. No one was allowed beyond except those with express permission. Currently, only the alphas around the border and Meesei were within the rope.

The day before, Darahil had enchanted a staff to make loud and dominating claps when struck against a hard surface and offered it for the trial. Everyone was talking amongst themselves, waiting for the judge and parties to be summoned and for the proceedings to begin. Most did not know what to expect from the trial, having never seen one like this before.